3 Days in Paris: Insider’s Guide to the Perfect Paris Vacation

Let me start by saying 3 days in Paris is always a good idea. You have plenty of time to see major sites, eat delicious, rich food, experience artwork that changed the world, and just drink in the beautiful vision of life that is this city.

I visit my family in Paris every single year and I would make that trip even if I only had 3 days, and even if it was my first time in Paris.

Here’s a perfect three day in Paris itinerary (including my local favorites!) to give you an opportunity to hit the major sites while still giving you breathing room to relax and enjoy your time in the most romantic city in the world.

3 Days In Paris: Quick Guide

Why 3 Days in Paris Can Be A Perfect Sweet Spot

Paris is the kind of city you could spend a lifetime exploring and still not see it all. But if you’ve only got three days, don’t stress. You can absolutely experience the best of the city without feeling like you’re sprinting through a checklist.

This Paris itinerary is designed to balance iconic sights with meaningful experiences, from sipping wine in Montmartre to catching the Eiffel Tower sparkle from a river cruise. I love the museums in Paris, but I honestly think one is enough – spend your time actually experiencing the city also! 

Overall though, this is a choose your own adventure experience. If you want to spend all day at the Louvre, do it! If you want to do nothing but drink delicious coffee and eat nutella crêpes, do it! Your Parisian adventure is yours to do your way. I’m just here to help guide my favorites. 

Whether it’s your first time in Paris or you’re back for more, this 3 days in Paris plan helps you hit the highlights without burning out.

Getting Around Paris: Using the Paris Metro

I honestly love public transportation, especially when a city is well set up to make it usable. Everyone in Paris takes the metro because it’s just so efficient. You’ll see ads for Louis Vuitton and people dressed for a fashionable workday because it’s such a staple of life. 

It’s also incredibly ubiquitous – there are metro stops everywhere. If you look up directions and you have to walk more than five minutes, you’ve probably done something wrong. 

There are 14 lines (numbered 1-14) and Google Maps is awesome at showing you what line to take which direction. There are also attendants at most stations who speak English who you can ask for directions.

If you’re spending 3 days in Paris, it’s worth it to feel comfortable using the metro. Yes, Uber is accessible and safe, but traffic can be intense so the metro is very helpful!

Paris Metro Tickets

You can buy tickets in any metro station at the kiosks or from attendants. A single ride costs €2.50 or you can buy an unlimited 3-day pass for ~€62 (so this makes sense if you’re taking more than 8 rides a day). To be honest, I think single tickets should be fine. 

⚠️Metro Timing: Keep in mind that Paris is a busy city and you should expect the metro to be very crowded at 8:30am or 5-6pm. Still doable, just know you’re heading into a crowd and should keep an eye on your belongings and your phone in your front pocket to avoid getting pickpocketed. 

Walking in Paris

Paris is also extremely walkable, and I would go so far as to say that strolling the streets of Paris is a huge part of the fun of the city. 

The Haussmann-style architecture is part of what makes the city so special and I have a shocking number of photos of streetcorners and random buildings because they’re so beautiful.

3 Days in Paris: Where to Stay 

I have an entire article devoted to the best arrondissements (neighborhoods) in Paris here, but the TL;DR is that arrondissements start in the center with number 1 and spiral out like a snail from there. 

Most major tourist sites and attractions are near the 1st arrondissement, so you’ll be more central, and it will also be more experience. The good news is that Paris is quite easy to get around on foot and the metro is very accessible, so you don’t have to anchor yourself in the 1st arrondissement to have an amazing time.

In general, I would recommend first time visitors to Paris stay between the 1st and 10th arrondissements. Beyond that, you’re getting a little far out.

If you’re trying to be near the Eiffel Tower to watch it sparkle every night (one of my favorite things to do in Paris), I highly recommend the Hotel de Londres Eiffel. It’s definitely affordable luxury and the popular tourist location can’t be beat for that price tag. Check the latest prices and availability. 

Paris Day 1: Notre-Dame, A Museum & Sunset on the Seine

Morning: Breakfast Pastries, Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle

My favorite Pastry Shop in Paris
Le Boulanger de la Tour is up the way from Notre Dame and my absolute favorite pastry shop in all of Paris. The Pain au Chocolat has warm, melted chocolate inside the Croissant aux Amandes is almost indescribable.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is my favorite monument in all of Paris. I truly think it’s some of the most spectacular architecture in the world, and now that it’s reopened after the fires, you can see a few modern updates mixed with the original design.

Ideally, you can arrive by 8:30 AM to enjoy the views before the crowds show up. No ticket is required but you can reserve your slot here a month in advance.

Sainte-Chapelle
I discovered this chapel when I studied abroad in Paris, and while it’s certainly not a secret, a lot of tourists overlook it. It’s right by Notre-Dame and it has the most amazing stained glass windows I’ve ever seen in my life. 

Pro Tip: You absolutely must reserve a timed entry visit for this church. Last year I took my boyfriend and his dad thinking we could just walk in, and after an hour in line we bailed. You can get a discounted ticket here.

Lunch in the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is full of student energy, narrow streets, and classic Parisian cafés. Grab a quick, affordable galette (savory crêpe) at Crêperie Genia (my favorite from when I studied in Paris!) or sit down at Le Symposium for a classic French lunch (aka one that includes wine).

Afternoon: Choose Your Museum

You should visit a museum while you’re in Paris, and there are tons of amazing options. Here are three different, but equally inspiring, museums.

No matter what, you want to reserve your ticket and entry in advance. The lines are crazy and if you only have 3 days in Paris, you don’t want to spend it waiting in line:

• The Louvre: The most famous museum in the world, but it’s huge. I’ve heard if you looked at every piece of art inside for just 5 seconds, it would take you nearly 100 days.
  You definitely want to book a timed-entry tour of the masterpieces if you’re going to the Louvre.
  
  
• Musée d’Orsay: One of my personal favorites if only because the former train station it’s housed in is so unbelievably beautiful in and of itself. You’ll find Impressionist (and more) artwork here (think Monet, Manet, Degas, and Van Gogh).
  
  I also really enjoyed grabbing a coffee with my mom at the café on the top floor. There might be a line but it moves quickly (and the quiche looked amazing, next time I’ll be ordering that).
  
  Whether or not you want a guide for this museum is up to you, but I recommend at least getting an audio guide. There’s too much incredible history that you’ll miss without some sort of instruction.
  
  You also absolutely must reserve your tickets in advance and you can see ticket and tour options here.
  
  
• Musée de l’Orangerie: I truly love the Orangerie and it’s such a unique museum. It’s smaller and more digestible than the other two and known for housing Monet’s water lilies in this incredible, oval-shaped room.
  
  If you’re looking for something less crowded, this is it. Like the other museums, you must reserve a spot in advance to avoid spending hours in line. You can get a timed-entry ticket here for just $13, but you need to book at least 8 days in advance. 

Evening: Dinner Cruise & Eiffel Tower At Night

I recommend you head back to your hotel to decompress for a bit (early start and a museum is a big day, in my opinion!). Alternatively, you can always pop into a café for happy hour cocktails. 

Then it’s off to a Seine river dinner cruise. This is a lovely way to see the Parisian landmarks by nightfall while enjoying an amazing meal and is one of the top activities I recommend people do in Paris. 

You’ll float past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Pont Alexandre III and 16 other sites while dining with champagne and live music. Honestly it’s a lovely way to see the city from a different perspective than all the walking you do during the day.

I would recommend this tour (which has over 4,000 4.5 star reviews for a reason!) and specifically booking a table by the window so you can get the best views. 

Post-Cruise Eiffel View
If you’re looking for something to do after the cruise (though, to be honest, I think you’ll be tired), you can end your day at Trocadéro to watch the Eiffel tower sparkle.

I truly feel this is one of the most magical parts of Paris at night and I make sure to watch it every visit. It sparkles every hour on the hour for five minutes after sunset.

Paris Day 2: Champs-Élysées, Cheese in Montmartre, & Paris Burlesque

Now that you’ve crossed major museums and landmarks off your list, it’s time to spend some time walking through Paris. This second day is about seeing the major avenues and small streets that help make Paris feel so magical, and ending the night with a sultry show.

Morning: Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées

This is really one of my favorite things to do in Paris – kick off the day at the Arc de Triomphe and then wander your way down the Champs-Élysées

Arc de Triomphe
I love visiting the Arc de Triomphe for the 360 degree view of Paris that includes the Eiffel tower.

You can enter from the walkways on the outside of the roundabout, head underground, and emerge right in the center of the arch.

You’ll see an ever-burning flame for the Unknown Soldier and then make your way to the top (by stairs or elevator).

The lines here are hit or miss, if you go early you don’t have to reserve a ticket, but if you don’t want to risk it, you can reserve your spot here. 

Champs-Élysées Stroll
From the Arc, you can walk down the most famous avenue in the city. It’s touristy, yes, but still worth exploring. You 1000% should stop by Ladurée for a macaron (I recommend salted caramel!). 

Lunch on the Avenue

Café Joyeux Élysées
This social-impact café hires and trains people with cognitive disabilities. The food is solid and the vibe is warm. Want to go fancy? L’Alsace has classic brasserie vibes with outdoor seating. Really you can stop at any restaurant on the avenue. 

Afternoon: Wine & Cheese in Montmartre

Montmartre Wine & Cheese Tour

Don’t Miss: The Wall of “I Love Yous” near Place des Abbesses. It’s a hidden gem that’s perfectly romantic and ideal for photos.

Evening: Golden Hour at Sacré-Cœur and Crazy Horse Burlesque

After your tasting, park yourself on the steps of the Sacré-Cœur and watch the sun set. It will be magical and you can thank me later. 

For your evening activity, you simply must go to Le Crazy Horse Paris burlesque show. It’s an incredible lineup of ~20 dancers in an intimate venue that’s all about art and performance. 

Yes, there’s nudity, but it’s tasteful and I think the lighting was actually my favorite part (trust me, you’ll understand when you go). To this date, it’s one of my favorite things to do in Paris and you can see my full breakdown of the performance here.

Paris Day 3: Versailles from Paris Day Trip

On day 3, enjoy a day trip from the city! There are so many beautiful villages just a bit outside of Paris, and I personally love making the short trip to Versailles.

This is an ideal day trip from Paris 1) because it’s a magnificent palace and feast for the eyes 2) it’s very easy to get to from Paris on public transit. 

Getting to Versailles from Paris:

Take the RER C train from Paris to Versailles-Château—Rive Gauche (about 45 minutes). Honestly you can just type ”Versailles” into Google Maps, and it’ll do the rest (you can also easily book a private tour that comes with hotel pickup from Paris).

As with other museums, I highly recommend booking skip the line tickets and you want to make sure you have access to the incredible gardens as well. 

These are the Versailles Must-Sees:

• The Hall of Mirrors (go early to avoid crowds)
• Royal Apartments
• The Gardens, especially if the Musical Fountains Show is running
• Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, her own fairytale escape from court life (until things got not so great for her).

Evening: Farewell Dinner With a View

Les Ombres
Set on the rooftop of the Quai Branly museum, this elegant spot offers Eiffel Tower views and refined cuisine.

Girafe
If you can snag a reservation, Girafe is glam and seafood-focused with direct tower views. It’s a splurge, but a perfect sendoff.

Honestly though, any small Parisian bistrot will offer the perfect send-off meal. Stop anywhere that makes your heart happy.

What to Pack for 3 Days in Paris

Packing for Paris doesn’t need to be stressful. You don’t have to dress like you stepped off a runway, but it’s true that Parisians tend to dress a little more polished. Think smart casual and you’ll be just fine.

Here’s a quick list of what to bring so you feel comfortable, prepared, and stylish enough to fit in with the locals and I have a packing list for you here on Amazon.

Essentials

• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot. Choose something you can walk miles in that still looks nice (think chic sneakers or low-profile boots).
• Crossbody bag with a zipper: Helps keep your belongings safe and secure, especially on the Metro.
• Reusable water bottle: There are free fountains all over the city.
• Portable charger: Google Maps and photo ops will drain your phone.
• Voltage Converter: Speaking of, you will need a voltage converter in Paris. This guy goes with me everywhere I travel.
• Lightweight scarf: Adds instant polish and layers well if it gets chilly.
• Sunscreen: I am sunscreen police. You’ll be walking around a lot and you should protect your skin! This glowy one is my favorite for a “no makeup makeup” look.

Clothing

• Two to three outfits you can mix and match: Neutral colors are easiest.
• Light jacket or blazer: Evenings can be cool, especially by the Seine river.
• Dressier outfit: For a dinner cruise or your final night out.

What Makes Tourists Stand Out in Paris

The easiest way to spot a tourist in Paris? Athleisure. Lululemon might be a staple in the States, but Parisians don’t really wear workout clothes outside of the gym.

You don’t need to dress up, but if you’re actively trying to not look like a tourist, avoid looking like you’re heading to a yoga class. A well-fitted pair of jeans, a simple blouse, and a scarf go a long way in helping you blend in.

You also don’t need to overpack (why can’t I follow my own advice?). Paris is a great place to travel light and pick up anything you forgot. Bonus: a little extra suitcase space means room for chocolate, wine, or a vintage market find on your way home.

3 Days in Paris: FAQ

3 Days in Paris: Wrap-Up

Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, 3 days in Paris is enough to fall in love with the city. You’ll see unforgettable sights, eat ridiculously good food, and still have time to just sit at a café and watch the world go by. 

Use this guide as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to wander and customize it to what will make you happy!. Some of my favorite Paris memories have come from the in-between moments, and I hope you get a few of those too.

Cheers to your next adventure and please send me all the Parisian sunset and wine photos (or tag @insidetheupgrade on Instagram!) 🥂​​🇫🇷