Paris, a city of timeless beauty, is best enjoyed with a thoughtful plan. If you’re a first-time visitor looking to combine history, iconic landmarks, and modern architecture into just three days, this detailed itinerary is for you. From cathedral spires to glass pyramids, and royal palaces to riverside picnics, here’s how to get the most out of your long weekend in Paris.
Remember, this is just one way to experience the city — feel free to rearrange stops, spend more time where it feels right, or skip something altogether if you prefer a slower pace.
Before you dive in, you may also want to read these helpful guides:
- Top 3 Things to Do in Paris
- How to Get Around in Paris: A Complete Guide to Transportation
- How to Arrive in Paris: A Guide to Airports & Transportation
Day 1 – Friday: The Heart of Paris & Iconic Sights
Begin your Paris journey by exploring the city’s historic center – a mix of Gothic architecture, royal history, and iconic monuments. Expect a full day of walking, museums, and unforgettable river views.
8:30 AM – Pont Neuf & Île de la Cité
Start your trip with a walk across Pont Neuf and a quick croissant at Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole. Admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
10:00 AM – Sainte-Chapelle
Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to admire the spectacular 13th-century stained glass windows.
11:00 AM – Conciergerie
Explore this former royal palace and prison, including Marie-Antoinette’s cell.
12:30 PM – Lunch in the Latin Quarter
Try a street-side falafel or enjoy a classic meal at Le Procope – the oldest cafe in Paris (since 1686).
2:00 PM – Louvre Museum
Pre-book a 2:00 PM time slot. Use a 3-hour highlight route: Mona Lisa → Venus de Milo → Nike of Samothrace → Egyptian Wing → Napoleon III Apartments.
NB! Our upcoming blog post next week is entirely dedicated to visiting the Louvre — stay tuned!
5:15 PM – Tuileries Garden
Stroll through the historic gardens. Grab gelato from Amorino and relax by the fountains.
6:30 PM – Seine River Cruise
Take a cruise with Bateaux Parisiens ending at the Eiffel Tower. Golden hour is ideal.
8:00 PM – Eiffel Tower
Reserve skip-the-line tickets to the summit. For the best photos, go 30 minutes after sunset.
9:30 PM – Dinner in the 7th arrondissement – plenty of relaxed neighborhood bistros and brasseries nearby. Try Le Violon d’Ingres (Michelin-starred) or casual Café Constant.
Day 2 – Saturday: Royal Grandeur or Modern Paris
Choose between two powerful sides of Paris: the opulence of French monarchy at Versailles or the sleek skyline of La Défense. Whether you’re drawn to history or modern architecture, this day is yours to tailor.
If Versailles (history) intrigues you, dedicate the morning to exploring the royal palace and gardens. Prefer to stay in the city? Swap it for La Défense (modern architecture), full of skyscrapers, art, and rooftop views.
Option A: Versailles + Pompidou (History Focus)
8:00 AM – RER-C to Versailles
Travel time: ~40 minutes. Buy the “Passport + Gardens” ticket package.
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Palace of Versailles
Wander the Hall of Mirrors, royal rooms, and expansive gardens.
12:30 PM – Picnic in the park
Pick up fresh baguettes and cheese from a local boulangerie.
2:15 PM – Return to Paris, Metro to Hôtel de Ville
3:00 PM – Centre Pompidou
Admire the radical “inside-out” architecture and modern masterpieces.
5:30 PM – Le Marais
Shop or snack on Rue des Rosiers. The Rue des Rosiers which means “street of the rosebushes,” is a street in the 4th arrondissement of Paris.
7:00 PM – Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées.
Climb the arch for sunset views.
8:30 PM – Dinner on a side street off Champs-Élysées
Option B: La Défense + Orsay (Architecture Focus)
9:00 AM – La Défense
Metro Line 1 to Grande Arche. Explore modern towers and outdoor art.
11:00 AM – Coffee at Octopus rooftop terrace
Enjoy skyline views of central Paris.
12:00 PM – Lunch at Rue Cler – traditional market street.
1:30 PM – Musée d’Orsay
Explore 19th-century Impressionism and the grand clock tower.
4:00 PM – Tuileries to Place de la Concorde – perfect for photos.
5:30 PM – Galeries Lafayette Rooftop – free 360° views of the city.
7:30 PM – Dinner near Opéra – classic spot: Bouillon Chartier
Day 3 – Sunday: Montmartre, Canals & Glass Icons
This final day blends bohemian charm with quiet moments by the water and bold contemporary architecture. A slower-paced route with stunning city views and a perfect ending beneath the Eiffel Tower.
9:00 AM – Montmartre Morning
Start at Place du Tertre and coffee at Le Consulat.
10:00 AM – Sacré-Cœur
Free entry. Climb the dome for a view if you’re up for 300 steps.
11:30 AM – Dalí Paris Museum or Espace Dalida
12:30 PM – Lunch at Canal Saint-Martin
Try Le Comptoir Général or go picnic-style by the canal.
2:00 PM – Promenade Plantée
Walk this elevated park trail, a green escape with urban views.
3:30 PM – Fondation Louis Vuitton
Visit Gehry’s glass sailboat-like structure in Bois de Boulogne. Check exhibition availability.
6:30 PM – Picnic or apéro by the Seine near Passy Bridge.
8:00 PM – Final view from Trocadéro – don’t miss the sparkling Eiffel Tower at the hour.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Transport: Buy a Navigo Easy card (€2) and load a pack of 10 T-tickets (€16.90). Valid for metro, RER within city, trams, and buses. Use Google Maps or Citymapper.
Tickets & Reservations: Louvre, Eiffel, Sainte-Chapelle, Versailles, and Fondation Louis Vuitton should be booked 1–2 weeks ahead. Some museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month (not applicable to this itinerary).
Dining: Breakfast is light; brunch options are marked à la carte. Lunch menus range from €12–€20. Reserve ahead for dinner, especially popular places or Michelin restaurants.
Dress & Etiquette: Comfortable shoes essential. In churches, avoid sleeveless tops or short shorts. Start interactions with a “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” to receive better service.
Language tips: “Parlez-vous anglais?” and “Excusez-moi” go a long way.
Paris For You App Tip:
Download the Paris For You app for offline access to maps, routes, and sightseeing guides in 26 languages. Whether you’re navigating metro stations, planning your day, or searching for nearby highlights, the app helps you travel smarter and save time. You can explore curated walking routes, historical background on each landmark, and handy audio tips — all in your language, without internet.
