Paris, the City of Light, is renowned for its stunning architecture, world-class art museums, romantic ambiance, and delectable cuisine. With only two days, it’s essential to plan thoughtfully to maximize your experience. This itinerary balances must-see landmarks with local charm, providing insider tips for dining, accommodations, and navigating the city efficiently.
Whether you’re on a romantic getaway, a cultural trip, or a brief stopover, this guide will help you soak in Paris’s essence without feeling rushed. Let’s dive into your whirlwind adventure!
Day 1: Classic Paris & Artistic Wonders
Morning: Iconic Landmarks & the Eiffel Tower
Start your day early to beat the crowds and enjoy the city’s morning tranquility.
- Eiffel Tower:
- Best time to visit: Early morning (around 8:00–9:00 am)
- Tips: Pre-book your tickets online to skip long lines. Consider ascending to the summit for breathtaking views of Paris.
- Photo tip: Capture the tower from the Trocadéro Gardens across the Seine, offering a classic perspective.
- Champ de Mars:
- After your visit, take a leisurely walk through this vast park, perfect for photos and a quick picnic if you prefer.
Alternative: If you prefer a more relaxed start, enjoy breakfast at a nearby café like Le Café de l’Homme overlooking the Eiffel Tower or Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain.
Mid-morning: Seine River & Notre-Dame Area
- Seine River Walk:
- Walk along the quays, admiring the historic bridges like Pont Alexandre III, Pont Neuf, and the picturesque Île de la Cité.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral:
- Note: Currently under restoration after the 2019 fire, but the exterior and surrounding area are still worth visiting.
- Tip: Explore the nearby Square Jean XXIII for a peaceful spot with views of the cathedral’s facade.
Lunch: Classic Parisian Bistro
- Le Petit Cler:
- A charming, traditional bistro located on a lively pedestrian street near Eiffel Tower.
- Try classics like Steak Frites, Croque Monsieur, or Salade Niçoise.
- Tip: Reserve ahead or arrive early to secure a good table.
Early Afternoon: The Louvre & Tuileries Garden
- The Louvre Museum:
- Highlights:
- Don’t try to see everything; focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory.
- Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip lines.
- Time-saving tip: Use the Louvre’s guided audio tours or mobile apps for quick navigation.
- Highlights:
- Tuileries Garden:
- After the museum, stroll through these beautifully manicured gardens, perfect for photos and relaxation.
Late Afternoon: Saint-Germain-des-Prés & Latin Quarter
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés:
- Famous for its literary history and chic boutiques.
- Visit Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots for a coffee break—classic spots once frequented by Sartre and Picasso.
- Pantheon & Surroundings:
- Walk to the Pantheon, where many French greats are buried, including Voltaire and Marie Curie.
- Shakespeare and Company:
- A legendary English-language bookstore that’s worth a quick visit.
Evening: Montmartre & Sunset Views
- Head to Montmartre:
- Take the metro to Abbesses station or Anvers.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica:
- Visit at sunset for stunning views over Paris.
- Explore the surrounding Place du Tertre, where artists display their work.
- Dinner in Montmartre:
- Le Consulat or Le Moulin de la Galette—both historic and charming.
- Try French Onion Soup, Duck Confit, or Ratatouille.
- Tip: Reservations recommended.
- Nightcap:
- Enjoy a glass of wine at a cozy café or wine bar like Le Bar des Artistes.
Evening Stroll & Night Photography
- Walk back toward Pigalle or along Rue des Martyrs for lively nightlife and local ambiance.
- For night photography, capture the illuminated Eiffel Tower from the Trocadéro or the Pont Alexandre III bridge.
Day 2: Artistic Masterpieces & Hidden Gems
Morning: Musée d’Orsay & Neighborhood Charm
- Musée d’Orsay:
- Home to Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
- Tip: Arrive early or book tickets online.
- Focus on key works to avoid overwhelm.
- Seine Riverside Walk:
- Stroll along the river toward Île de la Cité and Saint-Michel area.
Late Morning: Île Saint-Louis & Sainte-Chapelle
- Île Saint-Louis:
- Quaint, less crowded island with charming streets and boutique shops.
- Stop for Berthillon ice cream—famous for its sorbets.
- Sainte-Chapelle:
- Known for its stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
- Tip: Buy tickets online to skip lines.
Lunch: Cozy Café & Local Bites
- Le Saint Régis:
- Located on Île Saint-Louis, offering French classics in a warm setting.
- Try Salmon Tartare or Duck Confit.
Afternoon: The Marais Neighborhood & Pompidou Center
- Le Marais:
- One of Paris’s most vibrant neighborhoods, full of boutiques, galleries, and historic sites.
- Visit Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s oldest squares.
- Centre Pompidou:
- Modern art museum with a striking architecture.
- Explore its collection or enjoy the panoramic terrace views.
- Hidden Gems:
- Discover small courtyards like Cour de Rohan or Square du Temple.
Late Afternoon: Canal Saint-Martin & Hidden Walks
- Walk along Canal Saint-Martin, lined with trendy cafes, boutiques, and local life.
- Perfect for a relaxed stroll, people-watching, or a coffee break.
Evening: Farewell Dinner & Night Views
- Dinner at Le Grand Véfour or Les Philosophes—both offer classic French cuisine in historic settings.
- Night Views:
- End your trip with a visit to Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck for a panoramic night view of Paris’s sparkling skyline.
Hotel & Accommodation Tips
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Hotel Ekta:
- Located near the Champs-Élysées, stylish, affordable, and well-rated.
- Hôtel La Lanterne:
- Boutique hotel in Saint-Germain with cozy rooms and a central location.
- Generator Paris:
- A modern hostel offering both dorms and private rooms, ideal for budget travelers.
Mid-Range & Luxury:
- Hôtel des Grands Boulevards:
- Trendy boutique hotel with chic decor, located centrally.
- Le Meurice:
- Opulent hotel near the Louvre and Tuileries, perfect for a luxurious stay.
- The Peninsula Paris:
- Ultimate luxury with exceptional amenities and a prime location.
Tips for Booking:
- Use platforms like Booking.com or Expedia to compare prices and read reviews.
- For a truly authentic experience, consider boutique hotels or charming guesthouses.
- Stay centrally (1st, 4th, 6th arrondissements) to minimize transit time.
Restaurant & Café Recommendations
Breakfast & Coffee:
- Café de Flore:
- Historic café in Saint-Germain, perfect for morning coffee and people-watching.
- Angelina:
- Famous for its rich hot chocolate and Le Mont-Blanc pastry.
- Claus:
- Organic bakery offering excellent croissants and coffee.
Lunch Spots:
- Le Petit Cler:
- Charming market street eatery with authentic bistro fare.
- L’As du Fallafel:
- Legendary falafel stall in the Marais; perfect for quick, delicious lunch.
- Café Marly:
- Overlooking the Louvre’s pyramid, refined with a view.
Dinner & Evening Dining:
- Septime:
- Michelin-starred modern French cuisine emphasizing sustainable ingredients.
- Reservation: Essential.
- Le Relais de l’Entrecôte:
- Famous for its steak-frites with a secret sauce—simple but legendary.
- Le Comptoir du Relais:
- Cozy bistro with classic dishes and a lively ambiance.
- Le Refuge des Fondus:
- Fun fondue experience in Montmartre.
Late-Night & Drinks:
- Bar Hemingway (Ritz Hotel):
- Classic, historic cocktail bar.
- Le Bar des Artistes:
- Relaxed wine bar with a great selection.
- Little Red Door:
- Creative cocktails in a stylish setting.
Essential Tips for Your 2-Day Paris Trip
- Pre-Book Major Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, and Musée d’Orsay often sell out. Book tickets online to save time.
- Use Public Transport: Metro and RER trains are fast, affordable, and extensive. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite Pass for unlimited travel.
- Plan Your Routes: Map out your day to minimize backtracking. Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time transit info.
- Pack Light & Comfortable Shoes: Expect lots of walking on cobblestone streets.
- Stay Central: Choose accommodations close to major sights to maximize your time.
- Learn Basic French Phrases: A simple “Bonjour,” “Merci,” and “Au revoir” go a long way.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of quiet hours and etiquette in cafés and churches.
Final Tips & Inspiration
A whirlwind 2-day trip to Paris can be both magical and enriching. While you can’t see everything, focusing on a few neighborhoods and landmarks allows for a more immersive experience. Balance iconic sights with local experiences—sip coffee at a corner café, stroll along historic streets, and indulge in culinary delights.
Remember, the essence of Paris isn’t just in its sights but in its ambiance, art, and joie de vivre. Approach your quick trip with curiosity and an open heart, and Paris will leave an indelible mark on you.
Bon voyage!
Enjoy your spectacular 2 days in the City of Light.