Paris, the City of Light, is a timeless destination that continues to captivate travelers from around the world. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Paris offers an unforgettable experience. If you find yourself with just three days to explore this enchanting city, fear not. In this travel blog, we’ll guide you through a carefully curated itinerary to ensure you make the most of your short stay in Paris. For the best flights to Paris, see here.
Table of Contents
Day 1: Parisian Classics
Let’s dive into the details of Day 1: Parisian Classics, where you’ll explore some of the most iconic and quintessentially Parisian attractions.
Morning: The Eiffel Tower
Start your day early to make the most of your visit to the Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most recognized landmarks. Here’s a more in-depth look at your morning itinerary:
Sunrise Ascension: Arriving shortly before sunrise allows you to experience the magic of Paris as the city slowly awakens. The early morning light bathes the Eiffel Tower in a warm glow, making it an ideal time for photography. Purchase your tickets in advance to skip the long lines or consider taking the stairs for a unique perspective of the tower’s intricate ironwork.
Elevator to the Summit: Take the elevator to the summit of the Eiffel Tower. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy breathtaking, 360-degree views of Paris. Be sure to spot famous landmarks such as the Sacré-Cœur, Montmartre, the Seine River, and the sprawling cityscape.
Breakfast with a View: Descend to the second level for a leisurely breakfast. You’ll find charming cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating that provide a delightful setting to enjoy croissants, coffee, and other French pastries while taking in the surrounding beauty.
Late Morning: Trocadéro Gardens
After your visit to the Eiffel Tower, it’s time to explore the Trocadéro Gardens, located directly across the Seine River. Here’s what to expect:
Scenic Views: As you stroll through the Trocadéro Gardens, you’ll find several terraces offering splendid views of the Eiffel Tower. This is the perfect spot to take postcard-worthy photographs of the tower framed by meticulously maintained gardens, fountains, and statues.
Relaxation: The gardens provide a serene environment to relax, have a picnic, or simply bask in the beauty of your surroundings. Many visitors find it an ideal spot for reflection and appreciating the grandeur of Paris.
Art and Culture: Explore the nearby Musée de l’Homme or the Musée national de la Marine if you have a penchant for anthropology or maritime history.
Lunch: Le Jules Verne
For lunch, indulge in a gastronomic experience like no other by dining at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant located within the Eiffel Tower itself:
Exquisite Cuisine: Le Jules Verne offers a culinary journey through modern French cuisine. You’ll be treated to a meticulously crafted menu that combines traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Signature dishes and an extensive wine list complement the breathtaking views.
Reservation Recommended: It’s highly advisable to make reservations well in advance, as this exclusive restaurant is in high demand. Request a table with a view of the city to savor your meal alongside the Eiffel Tower.
After this culinary adventure, you’ll have plenty of energy for the afternoon’s Seine River cruise and evening exploration of Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, as detailed in the initial itinerary. Parisian Classics Day 1 offers a blend of culture, history, and exquisite cuisine, ensuring an unforgettable start to your 3-day Parisian adventure.
Day 2: Art and Culture
Day 2 in Paris is dedicated to immersing yourself in the city’s rich art and culture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your day:
Morning: Louvre Museum
Early Entrance: Start your day early to beat the crowds at the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s largest and most famous art museums. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the ticket lines and maximize your time.
Must-See Masterpieces: While the Louvre houses an overwhelming number of artworks, make sure to prioritize the must-see masterpieces. These include Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault.
Guided Tour: To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour. Expert guides can provide historical context, art insights, and lead you to hidden gems within the museum. They’ll help you navigate the vast collection more efficiently.
Break for Breakfast: The Louvre has several cafes and dining options where you can take a break and enjoy a coffee or light breakfast. The Café Marly, located within the museum, offers a picturesque setting with views of the Louvre’s glass pyramid.
Late Morning: Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité
Gothic Splendor: After leaving the Louvre, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River to reach the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture boasts intricate facades, stunning stained glass windows, and the opportunity to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Explore Île de la Cité: Notre-Dame is located on the Île de la Cité, one of the two natural islands in the Seine River that form the historic heart of Paris. Wander through the charming streets of this island, where you’ll discover quaint shops, cafes, and the picturesque Square du Vert-Galant park with its iconic weeping willow trees.
Lunch: Satisfy your appetite with a delightful lunch at one of the local bistros or restaurants on Île de la Cité. Enjoy classic French dishes in a quaint and historic setting.
Afternoon: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Arriving in Montmartre: In the afternoon, make your way to the vibrant and artistic neighborhood of Montmartre. You can take the metro or a taxi to save time.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Your first stop in Montmartre should be the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Perched atop a hill, this stunning white-domed church offers awe-inspiring views of Paris from its grand esplanade. The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, adorned with intricate mosaics and artwork.
Place du Tertre: Adjacent to the basilica is the bustling Place du Tertre. Here, local artists set up their easels to display and sell their work. Stroll through the square, interact with artists, and perhaps even commission a custom artwork as a unique souvenir.
Exploring Montmartre: Montmartre is known for its rich artistic history, and you’ll find charming cafes, quirky shops, and winding streets to explore. Visit the former studios of famous artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec and immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere that still lingers in this neighborhood.
Sunset Views: If you time it right, Montmartre also offers some of the most captivating sunset views in Paris. As the day comes to a close, find a quiet spot to watch the sun dip below the city’s rooftops and bid farewell to another memorable day in the French capital.
This culture-packed day allows you to delve deep into Paris’s artistic and historical heritage, making it a highlight of your 3-day adventure in the City of Light.
Day 3: Day Trip and Farewell
Day 3 in Paris involves a memorable day trip to the Palace of Versailles and some final moments in the city before bidding farewell. Here’s an in-depth look at your Day 3 itinerary:
Morning: Palace of Versailles
Early Departure: Start your day early to make the most of your day trip to the Palace of Versailles, a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is located approximately 12 miles (20 kilometers) southwest of Paris and can be easily reached by train.
Arriving at Versailles: Take a train from Paris to the Versailles Rive Gauche station, which is a short walk from the palace entrance. Arriving early helps avoid long lines and crowds.
Palace Tour: Begin your visit by exploring the opulent Palace of Versailles. As you enter the palace, you’ll be greeted by the grandeur of the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles, ending World War I, was signed. Stroll through the lavishly decorated rooms, including the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, and admire the stunning artwork, chandeliers, and intricate details.
Gardens of Versailles: After touring the palace, spend time exploring the meticulously landscaped Gardens of Versailles. Covering over 2,000 acres, the gardens are adorned with fountains, sculptures, and perfectly manicured lawns. Don’t miss the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, smaller palaces located within the park.
Lunch in Versailles: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the charming restaurants or cafes in Versailles town, located near the palace. Savor traditional French cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Afternoon: Return to Paris
Exploring Versailles Town: Before departing for Paris, take a stroll through Versailles town to admire its historic architecture and perhaps do some souvenir shopping.
Late Afternoon: Musée d’Orsay
Upon returning to Paris in the late afternoon, head to the Musée d’Orsay, a short walk from the Louvre. Here’s what to expect:
Impressionist Art: The Musée d’Orsay is renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Marvel at works by artists like Monet, Manet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Degas. The museum is housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, adding to the allure of the art.
Guided Tours: Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks and the artists who shaped the art world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Evening: Seine Dinner Cruise
Farewell Dinner: As your 3-day adventure in Paris draws to a close, celebrate your time in the city with a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine River. These cruises offer a delectable gourmet meal in a tranquil setting, all while passing by Paris’s illuminated landmarks.
Eiffel Tower Sparkling Show: Many Seine dinner cruises are timed to coincide with the Eiffel Tower’s hourly sparkling light show that occurs after sunset. It’s a magical way to conclude your visit to Paris.
Reflection and Farewell: During your dinner cruise, take time to reflect on your incredible journey through Paris. Savor the flavors of French cuisine, enjoy the company of fellow travelers or loved ones, and soak in the enchanting views. As you disembark, take one last glance at the City of Light, knowing that you’ve experienced its timeless beauty and allure.
Day 3 provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and art with a visit to the Palace of Versailles and a final evening filled with a memorable dinner cruise. It’s the ideal way to bid farewell to Paris, a city that has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on your heart and soul.
What to See in Paris in 3 Days: Conclusion
In just three days, you’ve experienced the essence of Paris, from iconic landmarks to world-class art and cuisine. While there is much more to discover in this enchanting city, your whirlwind adventure has provided a taste of its timeless charm. Paris will forever hold a special place in your heart, and you’ll undoubtedly be dreaming of your next visit. Always choose the best travel insurance for a safe trip. Au revoir, Paris!
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