Paris is a city of culture, history, and beauty, and is often referred to as the “City of Love.” With its stunning architecture, world-renowned museums, and iconic landmarks, Paris is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. This guide will take you through three days of exploring the city, visiting some of its most famous sights and experiencing its rich history and culture. So, grab your walking shoes and let’s get started!
1st Day in Paris
2nd Day in Paris
3rd Day in Paris
1st day in Paris
1. Louvre Museum
Start the day with a visit to the Louvre Museum (website), the world’s largest museum and home to over 35,000 works of art, including the famous painting of the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. Make sure to allow plenty of time to see all that the museum has to offer, as it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris.
2. Tuileries Gardens
After the Louvre, make your way to the Tuileries Gardens, a beautiful public park located between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde. The gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city and are a perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch.
3. Champ Elysees
In the afternoon, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. This avenue is lined with luxury shops, cafes, theaters, and cinemas, making it a perfect place for some shopping or people-watching.
4. Arc de Triomphe
End the day with a visit to the Arc de Triomphe (website), a monument honoring those who fought and died for France during the Napoleonic Wars. Climb to the top of the Arc for a breathtaking view of the city, or admire its impressive architecture from the ground.
2nd Day in Paris
1. Musée d’Orsay
Start the day with a visit to the Musée d’Orsay (website), a former train station that has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the art of the 19th and 20th centuries. You will find masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh, as well as a collection of sculptures and decorative arts.
2. Seine River Cruise
After the Musée d’Orsay, take a Seine River Cruise, a scenic boat tour of Paris and its landmarks. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and get a better understanding of its history and architecture.
3. Eiffel Tower
In the late afternoon, make your way to the Eiffel Tower (website), one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city, or simply admire it from the ground. The tower is particularly beautiful at night, when it is illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights.
3rd Day in Paris
1. Notre Dame
Start the day with Notre-Dame Cathedral (website), a famous Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Paris. This landmark is known for its architecture, history, and its role in Victor Hugo’s novel “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.”
2. Centre Pompidou
After Notre-Dame, visit the Centre Pompidou (website), a modern art museum with a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. This museum is known for its unusual architecture and is a must-see for art lovers.
3. Sacre Coeur
In the afternoon, make your way to the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur (website), a beautiful church located on the top of a hill in the Montmartre neighborhood. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city, or simply admire the church’s beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
4. Moulin Rouge
End the day with a visit to the Moulin Rouge (website), a historic cabaret famous for its can-can dance performances. Enjoy an evening of entertainment, music, and dance, and experience a piece of Parisian history.