3 Days in Paris Itinerary: The Only One You Will Need

Are you looking for the best 3 days in Paris itinerary that covers the top sites? Planning a Paris vacation does not have to be difficult!

There are so many fabulous and unusual things to do in Paris in three days. This is a generous amount of time to explore the City of Light.

I am familiar with the best of Paris, both the popular and the offbeat locations as well. If this is your first visit to Paris, I have plenty of tips to share!

Feel free to change up my suggestions from day to day to make your Paris 3-day itinerary tailored to your specific needs during the time you are visiting Paris.

For this article, your arrival day is not considered the first day of your itinerary for 3 days in Paris. My suggestion is to keep the arrival day low key especially if your journey to Paris involves a long travel day.

Take the arrival day to relax from the long travel. Get some rest, sleep, and most importantly, hydrate. Take a leisurely stroll of the district where you will be staying and have a nourishing dinner!

Now, let’s look at what to do in Paris!

3 Days in Paris Itinerary: The Only One You Will Need

Day One: Classic Monuments and Hidden Gems

Stop 1: The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is probably the most popular attraction in Paris. I think almost anyone visiting Paris would be disappointed if they missed out on seeing one of the most famous landmarks in France.

Begin your 3 days in Paris itinerary at the Eiffel Tower. It is located at the Champs de Mars, in Paris’ seventh arrondissement.

The tower is over 1,000 feet tall and is one of the tallest edifices in the city. Built to serve as the gateway to the 1889 World’s Fair, today the Eiffel Tower is the worldwide symbol of Paris!

You will want to set aside a few hours of your first day in Paris to discover all that the Eiffel Tower has to offer.

You will find restaurants within her wrought-iron beams and panoramic views of Paris that are breathtaking!

Did you know you can climb up into the Tower? You can climb up to the top using 1,665 steps! If you don’t want to walk up, you may ride the elevator which most people choose to do.

Be aware that lines are extremely long most days. You will be far better off purchasing tickets before you arrive.

However, simply walking alongside the Eiffel Tower is a very memorable thing to do. You’ll get a perspective of just how large the famous monument is.

To photograph lasting memories of the Eiffel Tower during 3 days in Paris, stroll across the street to the merry-go-round.

Or walk across the Seine River to the Trocadero Palace, built into the side of a hill, which affords EPIC shots of the Eiffel Tower.

Book Here:  Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Priority Access

Book Here: Paris: Eiffel Tower Access & Seine River Cruise

Scooter Around Paris As An Alternative Way To Get Around

When you visit Paris, you will see clumps of e-scooters everywhere. They offer a unique way to explore the city for both tourists and locals alike! This is one of the cool travel tips in Paris.

During your Paris three-day itinerary, if scootering around town appeals to you, here is what you need to do.

Download the phone application of one of the scooter companies and input your credit card information. Once you have created an account, GPS shows where available scooters are in your vicinity.

You can rent a scooter for as long as you think you will need one. When you have arrived at your destination, you verify through the app on your phone that you are done.

Then you simply leave the scooter and walk away. More likely than not, there will be someone who will scoop it up and be on their way very soon.

Stop 2: Visit The Musee d’Orsay

The Musee d’Orsay is a few minutes from the Eiffel Tower. It is also located in the seventh arrondissement on the River Seine’s left bank.

It is inside Gare d’Orsay, an old yet extremely ornate railroad station.

If you love art, you must visit when in Paris!

Housing mainly French art between the years 1848 to 1914, this museum will surely have something to please you. there are large collections of paintings, sculptures, designs, and architecture.

The most popular exhibitions are its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections.

There is an admission fee, and I recommend allotting two hours to tour this exciting art museum. Add it to your 3 days in Paris itinerary!

Book Here: Paris: Musée d’Orsay Masterpieces Guided Tour

Stop 3: Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

One of the most well-recognized cathedrals in the world is Notre-Dame de Paris, a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement of Paris.

She is acknowledged worldwide as one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture anywhere. Her history is spectacular and it took hundreds of years to construct her.

UPDATE: Due to the fire in spring 2019, please research Notre Dame updates. At this time it is closed, but it is definitely worth it to visit the church to see it and walk around the exterior grounds. 

Restoration construction has slowly begun. Even though the church is closed, the area is crowded and worth a few moments of your time to see Our Lady of Paris in person and snap a few pictures.

Stop 4: Be Utterly Amazed At Sainte Chapelle

Within walking distance from Notre-Dame de Paris is the dazzling Sainte-Chapelle, a MUST-SEE during your 3 days in Paris! It is one of the lesser-known chapels in Paris for visitors.

Since it is so near Notre Dame, many people just visit Notre Dame and skip this extremely exquisite chapel, because they are not aware of it.

Sainte-Chapelle’s upper level has over 1,000 striking and gleaming stained glass windows that tell the story of the Bible.

Arranged across 15 main windows, the stained glass panes display over 1,000 scenes from the Old and New Bible.

There are pamphlets available in many languages explaining each of the 15 panels, and the panes of stained glass contained in them.

There is also a sumptuous rose stained glass window at Sainte-Chapelle which describes the Book of Revelation through its stained glass panels.

Do not be disappointed when you first walk into the building, the Palais de la Cite. It is dark and rather dreary. This is where the servants lived.

You will be guided upstairs to the king’s chapel where the stunning glass panels are.

I recommend NOT SKIPPING this historical jewel when planning your Paris 3-day itinerary. I suggest allotting for about an hour there.

Book Here: Sainte-Chapelle, Conciergerie, Notre Dame Guided Tour

Stop 5: Explore The River Seine

You have spent your first day in Paris exploring the City of Light’s attractions around the River Seine. Another unique and very popular way to discover Paris is to take a Seine River cruise.

The options to select from are endless, depending on your budget, desires, and time. A narrated cruise is like having your own personal tour guide for Paris without the high cost!

This is a great way to snap some memorable pictures of Paris as well. This is definitely one of the top activities for your itinerary in Paris.

Book Here: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise

Book Here: Seine River Sightseeing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner

Day Two: The Louvre, The Champs de Elysees, The Arc de Triomphe

Stop 1: Take In Art At The Louvre Museum

In my opinion, no trip to Paris would be complete without visiting the famous Louvre Art Museum at least one time.

Located on the right bank of the River Seine within the Louvre Palace, the museum contains some of the world’s most precious paintings and artifacts.

It is a great way to begin day two of your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Did you know the Louvre in Paris is the largest art museum in the world? More people visit it every year than any other art museum. And rightly so. There is so much to see!

The museum is divided into eight departments full of antiquities, paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings. Some of the collections include Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Oriental.

When you arrive, grab a map of the museum to guide you to the specific collections and periods that interest you.

Most visitors, want to see the famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo DaVinci.

A second highlight that draws large crowds is the classical sculpture, Venus de Milo. A classical sculpture from the fourth century B.C., it is the armless figure of the goddess Aphrodite. She is indeed beautiful.

Operating hours vary, so check online before you plan your day. Lines for admission tickets can be extremely long, so purchasing online beforehand is prudent.

As additional assistance, there is a Louvre Art Museum app for your phone. It is a great way to familiarize yourself with the museum and its exhibits. 

I suggest that you budget at least half a day at the Lovre Art Museum, at minimum.

Book Here: Louvre Museum Timed-Entrance Ticket

Book Here: Paris: 2-Hour Louvre Museum Guided Tour with Ticket

Stop 2: The Garden Of The Tuileries

Located in the 1st arrondissement between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concord, the Jardin des Tuileries is one of the very popular gardens and parks in Paris.

There are tree-lined walkways, statues, and famous fountains. This is a great place to visit when visiting Paris with kids. Give them the chance to run around but walking on the grass is not allowed.

Tuileries Gardens are where Parisians eat, meet, and stroll. At one end you will find the iconic Louvre Museum. It is certainly one destination to add to your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Stroll through tree-lined and fountain-filled promenades and you will come to the beginning of the most well-known avenue in the world, the Champs-Elysees. It is a grand view perfect for your Paris plan!

Stop 3: Visit The Champs-Elysees 

Head out to the fashionable Avenue des Champs-Elysees to visit one of the most well-known avenues in the world. It has some of the richest real estate on the planet!

Upscale and not-so-upscale shops, cafes, and restaurants dot the Champs Elysees on both sides of the street. This will certainly be an eclectic place to visit when you plan a trip to Paris!

Stop 4: Go Inside The Arc de Triomphe

The Avenue des Champs-Elysees ends at the Arc de Triomphe, another of the famous monuments of Paris. They are the reasons why Paris is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

The Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France. There is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located there with an eternal flame that commemorates the war dead who were never identified.

Did you know you can walk and tour inside the Arc de Triomphe? There is also an observation deck on the top. The climb to the top is difficult because there are so many stairs, but it isn’t impossible.

Unfortunately, there is not an elevator to the top. Anyone wheelchair-bound or unable to climb steep steps will not be able to participate.

Please be aware of this fact when planning a trip to Paris.

Book Here: Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets

Day 3: Montmartre and Outstanding Architecture

Stop 1: Montmartre and Sacre-Couer

Begin the third day in Paris by venturing into the 18th arrondissement to explore the Montmartre neighborhood. Located on the Right Bank, it has an eclectic and artsy flare!

Montmartre is the bohemian part of Paris and a great place to explore on foot. You will find artists peddling their wares and many interesting shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Located at the summit of Montmartre, the highest point of Paris is the Basicila of the Sacred Heart, Sacre-Coeur. It is not as “fancy” nor does it display as much excess as other styles of architecture in the area.

Because the church sits atop a hill, there are MANY steps to climb to the top. There is an incline railway to catch if climbing is too daunting or there are elderly in your group.

Because of the height, the top of Montmartre affords exceptional views of Paris and her communities and her most famous monuments.

Back at the bottom of the hill in front of the basilica, you will find streets bustling with people, as well as tons of souvenir shops and restaurants.

It is my experience that the souvenir prices in the neighborhood are the cheapest in Paris. 

This is an unforgettable destination to add to your 3-day itinerary for Paris, France.

Book Here: Montmartre Highlights Walking Tour with a Local Guide

Book Here: Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Guided Walking Tour

Stop 2: Make Time To See The Moulin Rouge

Located at the bottom of the hill in the eclectic Montmartre district, is the most famous cabaret in the world: the iconic Moulin Rouge.

World-class international stars such as Frank Sinatra and Elton John loved this venue and it is the center of many movies throughout history.

You can have dinner and be entertained by the dazzling Broadway-style show. But be aware there is a proper dress code and keep that in mind when you visit.

Of course, purchasing tickets online beforehand is always prudent when adding this spot to Paris itineraries.

Book Here: Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket with Champagne

Stop 3: Visit The Opulent Palais Garnier

The Paris Opera House, known as Opera Garnier, is so opulent that is it often referred to as Palais Garnier.

You will need to travel to the 9th arrondissement in Paris to see it. This spectacular theatre seats almost two thousand people.

These days, the theater is used mainly for ballet performances. It has been a French historical monument since the early 1900s.

The Palais Garnier is probably one of the most famous opera houses in the world. It is one of the major symbols of Paris, right alongside Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.

For an admission fee, you can discover the treasures of 19th-century theatre art by taking a guided or self-tour of the facility. The Grand Staircase is a sumptuous sight in itself to behold. 

Do not miss out on seeing the Gold Room. It displays baroque opulence that is stunningly beautiful! You will want to allow one hour here.

This is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Paris in 3 days!

Book Here: Opera Garnier Entry Ticket

Stop 4:  Shop at Galleries Lafayette

The Galleries Lafayette is within walking distance from the Paris Opera House. It is where the locals and international visitors both shop and eat.

This is a definite must-do in Paris!

A series of opulent buildings connected by a series of bridges make up the Galleries Lafayette.

You do not have to shop to visit there. A visit to the Galleries Lafayette is worth your time during your Paris 3-day itinerary just to see the pretty Art Nouveau architecture.

During the holidays, the Christmas ornaments and the spectacular themed Christmas tree in the main foyer are unbelievable.

You will want to take a stroll out onto the Glasswalk in the main foyer. It is 53 feet high and extends out an amazing 29 feet. On it, you have spectacular unrestricted views of the stained glass windows in the main dome.

This is one of the best Paris Instagram spots!

Stop 5: Visit The Rooftop Terrace At Galleries Lafayette For Spectacular Parisian Views

Head up to the rooftop deck at the Galleries Lafayette for panoramic views of the city of Paris. Many tourists do not know about or take advantage of this unique opportunity. 

It is the BEST location for spectacular views! Plus, it is free and open to the public!

When I visited it was not that crowded. The other visitors there were very cooperative and everyone took turns to get their perfect shots.

Viewing the rooftop views from Galleries Lafayette is something to seriously consider when you are planning your Paris in three days itinerary!

Packing Tips For Your 3 Days In Paris Itinerary

Read my tips on how to pack light for your 3 days in Paris.

This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.

These RFID sleeves would be handy in preventing identity theft.

This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use.

These Bagail packing cubes are the exact ones I use whenever I travel.

These TSA-approved luggage locks will add another layer of protection as you travel. I lock my luggage when I leave my hotel room or Air B&B. This is important especially if there is no room lock.  

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it will fit nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.

These carbon replacement filters ensure you will have fresh drinking water.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great. It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from.

This antitheft backpack has a charging port, is water-resistant, and can comfortably carry up to a 15.6″ laptop.

These waterproof all-season shoes are extremely affordable and yet fashionable. 

Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these Air Run high fashion sneakers come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable. 

I highly recommend these Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals. 

I also sometimes bring along my Vionic Tides flip-flops. 

This cotton unisex lightweight scarf is versatile and can be worn in any season.

I like this colorful oversized scarf too.

These unisex polarized sunglasses come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of the aviator-style of sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.

This world traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.

If you need new luggage, this expandable soft side spinner luggage is affordable and comes in lots of colors.

If you like hard-sided better, you may favor this hard-sided luggage set better.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

How To Get Around Paris During Your 3 Days In Paris Itinerary

Paris is easy to navigate. If you are able, I’d suggest walking. Paris is a visually beautiful city, and there’s much to see and absorb, which you could miss if you are not walking.

Make sure you leave ample time to arrive at your destination and wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.

The metro train system is extensive in Paris, and probably the best transportation option you have. It’s fast and cheap, arriving and departing frequently. You can purchase tickets at every station.

The metro is not an option for the wheelchair-bound or for those unable to walk long distances or climb up and down stairs frequently.

There are also city buses and trains to consider during your 3 days in Paris. You always have the option to get a taxi or hire an Uber driver.

I do not recommend driving in Paris because of the traffic and difficulty finding parking. That is an option, however.

Quick Tips For Your 3 Days In Paris Itinerary 

Do not worry about the language barrier when traveling to Paris. I know only a few basic French words and had absolutely NO difficulties when I visited.

The French people in Paris know a few English words and you will be able to communicate enough to make your wishes known.

You can even use a translator app on your phone to assist with your communications. My family and I use Google Translate. This is one of my top travel tips for Paris!

Call your credit card company and verify if your credit card does or does not have foreign transaction fees.

If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does not charge you a small fee every time you use it when out of your home country.

When you visit an ATM in Paris, be sure it is in the same network as your bank so you are not charged transaction fees every time you withdraw cash.

Also, consider withdrawing larger amounts of cash, to limit the transaction fees.

Buy advanced tickets to must-do Paris attractions whenever possible. Tickets purchased in advance online are less expensive.

When you purchase tickets for the monuments and art museums, they often come with skip-the-line options. That saves you time!

If you travel to Paris, France, from far away check out my tips for surviving long international flights.