3 Days in Paris Itinerary for First-Timers

The City of Light is every bit as enchanting as you’ve imagined, with its iconic landmarks, charming streets, and that unmistakable air of romance.

But let’s be honest, planning the perfect Paris itinerary can feel a bit overwhelming.

That’s where this guide comes in!

In this 3 days in Paris itinerary for first-timers, we will explore the best of Paris in a short time.

So, pack your comfiest shoes, brush up on your “bonjour,” and get ready to fall in love with one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

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Quick links to plan your 3 Days in Paris

The best way to save time and money during your travels, I always recommend buy tickets in advance for the attractions you want to visit. This is a good way to guarantee your visit and to avoid the lines.

Usually, tourist cities can get pretty crowded, especially in high seasons, weekends, and holidays.

For your 3 days in Paris, I recommend getting the local city pass the Paris Pass.

With it, you get free entry to over 60 Paris landmarks and attractions, including the Louvre Museum, the Orsay Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Palace of Versailles.

You can choose between a 2, 3, 4, or 6-day pass. The Paris Pass also includes a one-day hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city, metro tickets, and a cruise on the Seine River.

Things to Know Before Planning Your Visit to Paris

How to get around Paris

Paris has a great, well-connected metro system, all the must-see places to visit in Paris are very easy to get to, and they normally have a metro station nearby.

If you are considering using the metro, you can download the metro map here.

I think the best way to see a city is by bus, as you can admire the view from the window while getting to your destination.

In this case, I suggest the hop on hop off bus, which drops you off right in front of the main attractions of Paris, and picks you up at pretty much the same spot, or close to it, when you decide to move forward to the next attraction.

Where to Stay in Paris

Here are my favorite accommodations for 3 days in Paris, France

Villa Des Princes – Well located, the Villa Des Princes is just 5-minute walk away from the Jardin du Luxembourg, a famous attraction of Paris. and also close to the Odéon metro station. The hotel also offers breakfast. Villa des Princes is a good option for those looking for a budget hotel.

Hotel Beaugrenelle Tour Eiffel – Another budget option, this time, just 10 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, the Dupleix metro station is also just some meters away. The hotel offers a breakfast buffet.

Le Jardins D’Eiffel – Jardins d’Eiffel is located very close to the Hôtel des Invalides, and just 15 minutes away from the Eiffel Tower, which if you are up to investing a little more on your stay, you can even get a room with a view to her.

Hotel San Regis  – This 5-star hotel is everything you need to have an unforgettable experience in Paris. It is housed in an old private mansion, the rooms are well-decorated, and the hotel is 3 minutes away from the Champs-Élysées and 5 minutes from the Franklin D. Roosevelt metro station. But the crème de la crème is the beautiful view from the Eiffel Tower that you can get from some of the suites!

3 Days in Paris Itinerary for First Timers Overview

We will start Day 1 by visiting the Île de la Cité and its main attractions, from there, let’s explore Le Marais, a vibrant neighborhood, and head to the beloved Eiffel Tower, from there we gonna enjoy the sunset while we cruise the Seine.

On Day 2, we will cover the museums, I recommend visiting them inside, but you are free to skip it and continue to the next highlights, on our way to the Arc de Triomphe, it will be the perfect day for those who love shopping.

Our final day in Paris will be dedicated to the most bohemian neighborhood of Paris, Montmartre, famous for its cafes, artistic vibes, and nightlife.

Save Time & Money: With The Paris Pass, you get free entry to more than 60 Paris tourist spots and attractions, among them, the Louvre Museum, Musée d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, and Palace of Versailles, it also includes a day city sightseeing bus tour, metro tickets, and a Seine River cruise. You can choose between 2, 3, 4, or 6-day passes.

Day One: Île de la Cité, Eiffel Tower

Notre Dame Cathedral

Time required: 40 minutes

Let’s start the day by visiting the most famous Gothic cathedral in the world, Notre Dame!

The construction of the cathedral began in 1163 by Pope Alexander III but was only completed in 1345. Its name means “Our Lady” and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Entrance to visit the interior of Notre Dame Cathedral is free, however, you will probably have to face a queue to get inside, but don’t worry, it’s totally worth it!

The interior is beautiful, with some stained glass windows and statues decorating the cathedral, among the highlights is the statue of Joan d’Arc, who is considered a heroine of France and was beatified here at Notre Dame by Pope Pius X in 1909, and canonized 11 years later.

Interesting Fact: Among other important events that took place here at Notre Dame are the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte and the coronation of Henry VI of England.

Probably the most famous piece inside the cathedral is the altar, which is one of the most beautiful altars I have ever seen and features the iconic Pieta statue by Nicolas Coustou.

For a small fee, it is possible to climb to the top of Notre Dame, where you can admire the beautiful view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower beside one of the famous gargoyles of the cathedral.

After leaving Notre Dame, you can explore the neighborhood a bit. Along the canal you will see traditional Bouquinistes, selling used and old books.

• Location: Île de la Cité
• Metro Station: Cité (Line 4)
• Opening Time: Monday to Friday: 7:45 AM to 7:00 PM. Saturday and Sunday: 8:15 AM to 7:30 PM
• Entrance Fee: FREE

Sainte-Chapelle

Time required: 30 minutes

Within walking distance of Notre Dame, is located what is probably the most beautiful chapel in the city of Paris, known as Sainte Chapelle.

What is unique about this chapel, is the fact that it is surrounded by large stained glass windows. The color of the glasses in contrast to the lighting of the place makes it a visually stunning experience.

Despite its small size, those who visit will not regret it, you will hardly find places as rich in detail as Sainte-Chapelle.

The chapel was built in 1248 to serve as the chapel of the royal palace, unfortunately, the rest of the palace has completely disappeared, and now around it, we have the Palace of Justice.

Did you know?: Sainte-Chapelle housed the relics of the Passion of Christ, composed of the crown of thorns, and a piece of the Vera Cruz (the real cross where Christ was crucified). The Crown of Thorns was purchased from the Latin emperor of Constantinople, Baldwin II, for an exorbitant sum.

• Location: Île de la Cité
• Metro Station: Cité (Line 4)
• Opening Time: Summer: 9 AM to 7 PM. Winter: 9 AM to 5 PM.
• Entrance Fee: €11,50

Conciergerie

Time required: At least 1 hour

The Conciergerie is one of Paris’ most historically rich landmarks. Originally part of the old royal palace that no longer exists, it became infamous as a prison during the French Revolution.

Inside, you can explore its medieval halls, including the vast Salle des Gens d’Armes, once the largest vaulted room in Europe.

After becoming a prison, the Conciergerie became the last home to some of the victims of the Reign of Terror, a bloody period during the French Revolution.

Among the notable figures imprisoned here, Marie Antoinette is perhaps the most famous.

The ill-fated queen spent her final days in a cold, dim cell before her execution in 1793. Her somber legacy is preserved in the former cell, now a chapel dedicated to her memory.

Other prominent figures like Georges Danton and Maximilien Robespierre also spent time here.

• Location: Île de la Cité
• Metro Station: Cité (Line 4)
• Opening Time:  9:20 AM to 6 PM.
• Entrance Fee: €11,50 (included in the Sainte-Chapelle combo ticket)

Combo Ticket: To save yourself some money and time, you can get a combo ticket for Sante-Chapelle and Conciergerie, with this, you have your entrance ticket guaranteed for both attractions, plus you don’t need to wait in line to get inside!

Le Marais

Le Marais, one of Paris’ most charming neighborhoods, is known for its narrow medieval streets, grand mansions, and vibrant cultural scene.

Start your exploration at the Place des Vosges, Paris’ oldest planned square, surrounded by elegant 17th-century townhouses.

Walking around the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets, you will discover trendy boutiques, vintage shops, and art galleries, so if you are a shopaholic like me, that’s the place for you!

For history enthusiasts, Le Marais is home to important museums such as the Musée Carnavalet which covers the story of Paris, and the Picasso Museum.

As we have just 3 days in Paris, we will not be visiting them though.

Eiffel Tower

Time to visit the symbol of Paris.

The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Universal Exposition, at first Parisians were not fond of the tower as they deemed it too modern for her time and didn’t fit the pattern of that period.

However, it soon became a symbol of Paris.

Don’t miss the chance to climb the Eiffel Tower, as you will have an incredible panoramic view of the city of Paris from there.

To climb the tower, you have the option of going up to the second floor, which already provides a nice view or going to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

To climb any floor of the Eiffel Tower I recommend securing an online ticket, so you’ll avoid long waiting lines.

• Location: Champ de Mars
• Metro Station: Trocadero (Line 6 and 9) or Ecole militaire (Line 8)
• Opening Time:  June to August from 9 AM to 12:45 AM. Rest of the year from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM.
• Entrance Fee: Prices vary.

Best Eiffel Tower Tours

• 1 – Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower and cruise on the Seine River – This ticket includes a guided tour of the second and third (summit) floors of the Eiffel Tower, the ticket includes a lift. Afterward, you will be taken on a boat trip along the Seine River.
• 2 – Visit the second floor or the summit of the Eiffel Tower – With this ticket, you can choose between visiting the second floor or the top of the Eiffel Tower, without having to wait in line!

Seine Cruiser

Now, for sunset, I recommend finishing your day with a Seine River cruise.

You can take the tour at any time of the day, however, in my opinion, the coolest experience is at dusk, as you can still admire the city in daylight on the part of the tour, but you will be able to see Paris lighting up for the night, which was, for me, a unique experience.

With the boat, you will pass by the main sights of Paris, such as Notre Dame, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower, and admire them all from a different angle.

If you opt for the night tour, you also get the chance to enjoy a three-course dinner during the Seine River tour, another unmissable experience, especially if you are traveling as a couple. Garantee this experience here.

Day Two: Museums, Arc of Triomphe

Today is the day to discover some of the most famous works of art, Paris has more than 130 museums some stand out more, see here the list of best museums to visit in Paris

Let’s start our day with the most famous museum in the world, the Louvre Museum.

 Louvre Museum

Time required: 2 hours

The Louvre Museum is the largest in the world, and to visit it completely would take days.

For this reason, many people prefer not to enter the museum, and visit it only from the outside.

The building itself with its glass pyramid is a tourist attraction, so many prefer to take some pictures and move on to the next attraction, and you can do that if museums are not your thing.

However, I recommend visiting at least the best artworks in the Louvre. A tour focused on the masterpieces takes around one to two hours and is very worthwhile.

Among the highlights not to be missed are the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory.

Best Louvre Museum Tours

• 1 – Skip the line at the Louvre and visit directly the Mona Lisa – If you want to get straight to the point, this is the best choice. With this guided tour, you enter the Louvre museum without having to face any queue, your guide will take you to the Mona Lisa, the icing on the Louvre museum cake, and after that, you can go to another tourist spot. The tour takes around 30 minutes.
• 2 –Private Guided Tour of the Louvre – This two or three-hour private guided tour ensures you see the best of the Louvre in no time with the company of a professional guide to answer any questions. With it, you can also avoid any queues at the entrance and save time.
• 3 – Visit the Louvre your way with an audio guide – With this ticket, you avoid the queues and visit the Louvre museum at your own pace, the ticket is valid for the whole day, and you also get an audio guide, with it, you will be able to learn more about the main works of art at the Louvre.

Musée d’Orsay

Time required: 1 hour

Leaving the Louvre behind now, we head across the Seine to another must-see museum in Paris, the Musée d’Orsay.

Its building was once one of Paris’ train stations, which explains the large clock you’ll see as soon as you enter the museum’s hall.

The Musée d’Orsay is famous for its large collection of Impressionist art, the Musée d’Orsay houses one of Van Gogh’s most extraordinary collections.

Among the masterpieces of the Orsay, are Renoir’s Ball at the Moulin de la Galette, Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait, and Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Jardin des Tuileries

The garden located in front of the Louvre Museum is known as the Tuileries Gardens. This is the first public park open in Paris.

The garden was created by order of Catherine de Medici, queen consort of France between 1547 and 1559, to decorate the Tuileries Palace, which was also built at the request of Catherine, in a place previously occupied by a tile factory (in French tuiles).

The palace was a royal residence for many years but was eventually destroyed in a fire in 1871. Today, the Tuileries Garden is the only remnant of the palace.

Place de la Concorde

Right at the end of the Tuileries Gardens, you find one of the most iconic squares in Paris, the Place de la Concorde.

It is known for its large water fountains and the Obelisk, Place de la Concorde was once famous for a much more violent attraction: the Guillotine.

During the French Revolution, Revolution Square, as it became known during that bloody period, was an obligatory stop for processions, events, and meetings, especially after the installation of one of the many guillotines in Paris.

Public executions took place in different areas of the city, but this was undoubtedly the most popular one, and the stage for the execution of famous figures such as King Louis XVI himself and his wife Marie Antoinette, Robespierre, and Danton, two leaders of the Revolution.

Champs Élysees

The Place de la Concorde marks the beginning of the most famous avenue in Paris: the Champs Élysees.

If you bought a ticket for the panoramic bus, you’ll probably prefer to ride it by bus and save energy for the rest of the tour, now if you’re on foot, get ready, because this avenue is quite long.

Arriving at the first intersection, you will notice an interesting building on your left, there is the Petit Palais, the Paris Fine Arts Museum, one of the top 10 museums to visit in the city, which, unfortunately, we won’t visit in this itinerary.

Arc de Triomphe

Standing at the Charles de Gaulle Place, at the end of Champs Elysée, we have that classic view of the Arc de Triomphe.

The famous arch was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to commemorate France’s victory at the Battle of de Austerlitz. The monument was only completed in 1836, 15 years after Napoleon’s death.

Did you know? The Arc de Triomphe in Paris was inspired by the Arc de Titus in Rome, located next to the Coliseum. The Arch of Titus was the first Arc de Triomphe built in history. In addition to these two, several other Arcs de Triomphe were erected in the world.

If you want to get closer, there is an underground passage that makes it easier to cross this busy road.

Once in the Arc de Triomphe, pay attention to the details, inscribed on the four pillars of the arch, there are the names of all the battles won by the Napoleonic army, as well as the names of the 558 generals.

In the center of the arch, you will find the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier”, placed there after World War I, the body that was never recognized, symbolizes all the French soldiers killed during the First War battles.

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Day Three: Montmartre

Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the hills in the city and the highest point in the city of Paris and is overlooked by the great Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacre Coeur), which we will visit in a moment.

Since 1133, the region has been used by Benedictine monks for the production of wines, but this is just one of the reasons for making this the most bohemian neighborhood in Paris.

Known for its many pubs, I would say that here, you will find the hottest and coolest nightlife in town.

The neighborhood was the favorite of intellectuals and famous artists, such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir, and served as the inspiration for several paintings.

Even today the streets are frequented by several artists and it is not uncommon to find painters sitting in the streets depicting the landscape of the neighborhood.

Sacre Coeur

There are two ways to go up the hill to the Sacre Coeur Basilica.

One is up the stairs, you can choose to go up the stairs right in front of the church, or the stairs on the side, which by the way is very famous for those who like to take pictures. striking.

Or you can choose to go up the hill with the electric tram.

The idea of building the Sacre Coeur arose during the Franco-Prussian War, when two influential men at the time, Alexandre Legentil (owner of a fabric store) and Hubert Rohault de Fleury (painter) promised to finance the construction of the Basilica if France resisted the onslaughts of the German army, so in 1875 the church began to be built.

The style used was a mixture of Roman and Byzantine architecture, which gave a unique face to the church, and marble was used in the construction, hence the white coloring that is not affected by rain or pollution.

In the basement of the church, there is still a crypt where it is possible to visit temporary exhibitions of religious art.

Le Lapin Agile

One of the oldest cabarets in Paris, also known as Cabaret of the Assassins because of the engravings of famous assassins that decorate the walls.

Later the cabaret began to be called Lapin Agile, from a painting made by André Gill on the wall of the place.

Depicting a rabbit running away from a pot, the painting can still be seen today.

Lapin Agile was one of the meeting points for famous artists in the region, among them Picasso, Maupassant, Apollinaire, and Brassens.

Among others, and became world-famous after Picasso painted “Au Lapin Agile”, in 1905, a small tribute to the locals.

Place des Abbesses

This square is famous for several attractions in fact, so it’s an almost mandatory stop if you’re in Montmartre.

It is here that you will find one of the last Fontaines Wallace in Paris, the famous iron fountain, decorated with columns in the shape of women, representing kindness, charity, sobriety, and simplicity.

In addition, this square is home to the famous Mur des Je t’Aime (I Love You Wall), a 40m² wall dedicated to love.

The wall is formed by tiles, where the different ways of saying I love you in different languages are recorded. Nothing more appropriate than a wall like that in the City of Love.

It is also here that you will find one of the most famous metro stations in the French capital, the Abbesses Station, famous for its entrance in the Art Nouveau style, the work was signed by the artist Hector Guimard in 1912.

Moulin Rouge

As the night approaches, head to the Moulin Rouge, the most famous cabaret and one of the symbols of the city of Paris.

It was built in 1889 and is one of the few traditional cabarets that still work, and still preserve its Belle Époque atmosphere.

The Moulin Rouge is the inspiration for great shows around the world, and among its attractions are the famous dancers of Cancan.

Among the artists who have performed here are big names like Frank Sinatra, Edith Piaf, and Liza Minnelli.

During the night, the building together with the Moulin Rouge mill is illuminated, which gives a whole new charm to the place.

If you have the opportunity, don’t just admire him from the outside. The Moulin Rouge offers shows every day at 9 pm, on some days of the year it also offers a second show at 11 pm.

Best Moulin Rouge Tours

• 1 – Moulin Rouge Show with Champagne – Enjoy an evening at the Moulin Rouge watching the Féerie show while enjoying half a bottle of champagne
• 2 – Show at the Moulin Rouge with Dinner – Combining the useful with the pleasant, why not enjoy the Moulin Rouge show while enjoying a typical dish of French cuisine? With this ticket, you have access to the Féerie show and one more dinner during the event, you can choose one of four menus, including a vegan and vegetarian menu.
• 3 – Show at the Moulin Rouge and Night Tour through Paris – With this ticket, you will not only attend the show Féerie at the Moulin Rouge but you will also be taken on a luxury bus to discover the biggest tourist spots in Paris at night!

Enjoy Paris even WITHOUT MONEY!

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This text was originally written and posted in February 2017 and updated in September 2024. New information has been added and links have been updated so that it could offer a better experience to the reader.