From the iconic Eiffel Tower to charming cobblestone streets lined with sidewalk cafés, this 2 days Paris travel itinerary delivers the ultimate Parisian experience.
Our 2 days Paris itinerary combines must-see landmarks with authentic local experiences that capture the true essence of this city.
Quick Overview of Visiting Paris in 2 Days
Here’s your perfect weekend adventure through Paris’s most captivating districts:
- Day 1: Arrive and explore Paris icons (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Seine River)
- Day 2: Discover Montmartre, Notre-Dame area, Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées
Paris 2-Day Itinerary Map
Your journey flows naturally from west to east, minimizing travel time while maximizing your Paris experience.
Day 1 focuses on the classic Paris landmarks along the Seine, while Day 2 takes you from the artistic Montmartre to the boulevards of central Paris.
Where We Recommend You Stay
For the ultimate Paris experience, we recommend staying in Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement).
Staying in Saint-Germain-des-Prés Benefits:
- Walking distance to the Louvre and Notre-Dame
- Excellent café culture and literary history
- Easy Metro connections to all major sights
Hotel Recommendations:
1. Luxury: Hôtel D’Aubusson – Described as an elegant 17th-century mansion with period furnishings and refined Parisian sophistication. Check prices here.
2. Midrange: Hotel Trianon Rive Gauche – Positioned as a charming boutique hotel with modern comfort and classic Parisian style. Check prices here.
3. Budget: Grand Hôtel de L’Univers Saint-Germain – Highlighted as excellent value with clean, comfortable rooms in an authentic Left Bank location. Check prices here.
The Ultimate 2 Days in Paris Itinerary
Let’s dive into the perfect weekend itinerary to experience the best of Paris’s stunning attractions and authentic culture.
Day 1: Arrive in Paris & Iconic Landmarks
Your Parisian adventure begins with the city’s most famous landmarks.
Today you will visit:
- Eiffel Tower,
- Seine River,
- Louvre, and the
- Tuileries Garden
How to get around today:
- Depending on where you are staying you might have to take the Metro to Trocadéro station.
- The rest of your day is on foot, you will walk a total of around 10 kilometers today.
Morning: Eiffel Tower & Trocadéro
Start your day early to beat the crowds and capture that perfect Instagram shot.
1. Begin at Trocadéro:
- Take the Metro to Trocadéro station for the best panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower.
- This elevated viewpoint offers stunning photo opportunities, especially in the soft morning light.
2. Eiffel Tower Visit:
- Enjoy a short 15 minute walk from the station, cross Pont de Bir-Hakeim (bridge) to reach the tower itself.
- Book entry tickets in advance to avoid lengthy queues – secure your Eiffel Tower tickets here.
3. Seine River Walk:
After your tower visit, stroll along the Seine toward Pont Alexandre III (25-minute scenic walk), one of Paris’s most ornate bridges.
Lunch: Breizh Café SB
For a modern take on French classics, enjoy the 35 minute stroll to Breizh Café SB (109 Rue Saint-Honoré) for exceptional crêpes and galettes.
Afternoon: Louvre Museum & Tuileries Garden
4. Louvre Museum:
- The world’s largest art museum deserves at least 3 hours of your time.
- Book timed-entry tickets online in advance here
- Important: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
Must-see highlights:
- Mona Lisa (Denon Wing, Room 711)
- Venus de Milo (Sully Wing, Ground Floor)
- Winged Victory of Samothrace (Denon Wing, Staircase)
5. Tuileries Garden:
After the Louvre, decompress with a peaceful stroll through these formal French gardens. The tree-lined pathways lead to Place de la Concorde.
6. Place Vendôme:
If time permits, admire the elegant jewelry boutiques and Napoleonic column in this prestigious square.
Evening: Seine River Cruise
As the sun sets, experience Paris from the water with a Seine River cruise.
Cruise Options:
- Standard cruise (1 hour): – Book your cruise here
- Dinner cruise (1.75 hours): – Book your cruise here
Dinner: L’Ami Jean
Traditional Basque bistro known for generous portions and convivial atmosphere.
Day 2: Montmartre Magic & Central Paris
Today reveals Paris’s artistic soul and historic heart, from the bohemian streets of Montmartre to the grand boulevards of central Paris.
Today you will visit:
- Montmartre
- Sacré-Cœur
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Sainte-Chapelle (Optional)
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Arc de Triomphe
- Champs-Élysées
How to get around today:
- Today you will have a combination of moving from one place to the next via metro and also on foot.
Morning: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Take Metro Line 12 to Pigalle or the funicular from Anvers station to reach Montmartre’s summit.
1. Sacré-Cœur Basilica:
- This Romano-Byzantine masterpiece offers panoramic views over Paris.
- Admission to the basilica is free; dome access costs €8.
- Book your Montmartre walking tour with Sacré-Cœur for the full experience.
2. Montmartre Village Streets:
Wander the cobblestone streets that once inspired Picasso, Renoir, and Toulouse-Lautrec.
Visit:
- Place du Tertre: Watch portrait artists at work
- Moulin Rouge exterior: The famous cabaret’s iconic red windmill
From Moulin Rouge, walk 2 minutes to Blanche metro station. Take Metro Line 2 towards Nation for about 15-20 minutes to Châtelet station.
Lunch: Le Petit Châtelet
This cozy family-run restaurant has been passed from father to son for four generations, located close to Notre-Dame.
Afternoon: Central Paris Historic Heart
4. Notre-Dame Cathedral:
- The iconic Gothic cathedral features stunning restored interiors with brilliant white walls and colorful stained glass.
- Book your 1 hour guided tour (that includes skip-the-line entrance tickets) online here
5. Sainte-Chapelle (Optional If You Have Time):
- This 13th-century royal chapel houses some of the most stunning stained glass windows in the world.
- Purchase your Sainte-Chapelle skip-the-line tickets here to avoid the queues.
7. Luxembourg Gardens:
- End your afternoon in these magnificent gardens, perfect for people-watching while relaxing by the Medici Fountain.
- The walk from the chapel to the gardens is only around 20 minutes.
Early Evening/Late Afternoon: Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Take RER B from Luxembourg station to Châtelet-Les Halles, then transfer to RER A toward Charles de Gaulle-Étoile (25 minutes total).
The station exits directly underneath the Arc de Triomphe.
8. Arc de Triomphe:
- Climb the 284 steps for views down the Champs-Élysées. The view encompasses twelve radiating avenues in perfect symmetry.
- Book your Arc de Triomphe tickets online here.
9. Champs-Élysées:
Stroll down this famous avenue for window shopping or visit Ladurée for their legendary macarons.
Dinner: L’Ami Jean
Traditional Basque bistro known for generous portions and convivial atmosphere.
Airport Suggestions: Arrival and Transportation
Here is everything you need to know about how to get from the Paris airport to the city.
Charles de Gaulle Airport:
Main international hub with direct flights from most cities worldwide
- To City Center: RER B train or Roissybus
- Airport Express: Le Bus Direct to Opera/Etoile
- Private Transfer: Door-to-door service with professional driver – book your private CDG transfer here
Orly Airport:
Closer to city center, mainly European and domestic flights
- To City Center: Take the Orlyval shuttle from Orly Airport to Antony station, and transfer to RER B train or take the Orlybus.
- Private Transfer: Door-to-door service with professional driver (30-45 minutes) – book your private Orly transfer here
How to Get Around Paris
Wondering how to get around Paris? Here is the best options for tourists.
1. Metro (Recommended):
- Purchase a Navigo Easy card for convenient tap-and-go travel
- Lines 1, 4, 6, 9, and 14 serve most tourist attractions
2. Walking:
- Many attractions are within walking distance of each other
- Perfect for discovering hidden gems and authentic Parisian streets
3. Taxi/Uber:
- Convenient for late evening returns or when carrying shopping
- Expect higher prices during peak hours
Paris Museum Pass Benefits
The Paris Museum Pass (€90 for 2 days) includes:
- Skip-the-line access to over 60 attractions
- Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Sainte-Chapelle included
- Significant time savings during peak season
Purchase your Paris Museum Pass here to maximize your sightseeing efficiency.
Final Thoughts on Our 2 Days in Paris Itinerary
From the artistic Montmartre to the Louvre, you’ll experience Paris’s finest attractions while discovering the charming neighborhoods that make this city so captivating.
For more insider tips, check out:
- What you wish someone had told you before visiting Paris,
- 20 Items you Forgot to pack for France, and
- Best Day Trips from Paris.
Find more Paris travel inspiration and tips on our France travel blog articles.
France Vacation Travel Planning Guide:
**🚑 Do I need travel insurance for France?
100% YES! — Visitors need travel insurance for emergencies. I recommend SafetyWing.
**🚙💨 How to get around whilst traveling in France?
By Car: Renting a car through DiscoverCars gives you the freedom to explore charming hilltop towns and vineyards at your own pace.
By Train: For travel between major cities, trains are efficient and affordable – book tickets through Omio.
**📲 Will my phone work in France?
Maybe — But you might come back to massive bill as it might be pricey. For the best experience, I recommend getting an SIM Card online before you travel.
**🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodation?
My go-to for hotels in France is Booking.com. However we often prefer a more authentic experience, and book apartments and homes through VRBO.
**✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights?
For finding cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
