3 days in Paris itinerary
A balanced 3-day Paris itinerary mixing iconic sights with local neighbourhoods, relaxed meals, strolls, and realistic transfers. Good for first-time visitors who want art, parks, markets and a taste of Parisian daily life without overwhelming pace.
Highlights
- Sainte-Chapelle stained glass
- Musée d'Orsay Impressionists
- Strolls through Le Marais and Canal Saint-Martin
- Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur views
- Local bistros and markets
Itinerary
Day 1
Classic central Paris: Île de la Cité, Saint-Germain and the Seine, plus Musée d'Orsay and evening by the Eiffel Tower.
Visit Sainte-Chapelle (stained-glass masterpiece)
Start with the jewel-like stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle on Île de la Cité.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy timed tickets in advance to skip lines.
- Photography is allowed but watch for low light and crowds.
Walk around Notre-Dame & Île de la Cité
See the exterior and the nearby historic streets; soak in views along the Seine.
Tips from local experts:
- The cathedral interior may still have limited access; the exterior and the island are still atmospheric.
- Stop for a quick riverside photo from the Pont Saint-Louis.
Lunch at Le Comptoir du Relais (Saint‑Germain bistro)
Classic Saint-Germain bistro for a relaxed, quality lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Popular spot—arrive early or expect a short wait if no reservation.
- Try a daily special and a half-bottle of wine to share.
Transfer: Walk along the Seine to Musée d'Orsay
Enjoy a leisurely riverside walk toward Musée d'Orsay.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroll past bookstalls (bouquinistes) and bridges for great photos.
Explore Musée d'Orsay (Impressionists)
Spend the afternoon with Monet, Renoir and other 19th-century masters in this former train station.
Tips from local experts:
- Focus on highlights (2–3 rooms) if you prefer a shorter visit.
- Audio guides are helpful for context; cafes on upper levels have views.
Relax in Jardin du Luxembourg
A calm garden break—sit by the fountain or walk the tree-lined paths.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light snack or coffee from a nearby café and people-watch.
- If traveling with kids, the small sailboats and puppet theatre are enjoyable.
Trocadéro viewpoint for Eiffel photos
Head to Trocadéro for the classic Eiffel Tower panorama at golden hour.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early for unobstructed photos; it can get busy at sunset.
- If you prefer fewer crowds, move slightly along the Seine toward the Pont d'Iéna.
Stroll on the Champ de Mars (Eiffel lawn)
Relax on the green lawns below the tower—great for photos and people-watching.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick a spot on the grass for a short rest; bring a light jacket for breezy evenings.
- Food vendors are around, but consider restaurateurs for a proper meal.
Dinner at Café Constant (near Eiffel)
Warm, reliable bistro fare in a friendly neighborhood restaurant.
Tips from local experts:
- No-nonsense classic French dishes; reservations recommended for dinner.
- Ask the staff for daily suggestions—menus change with season.
Day 2
Le Marais and modern art: a market breakfast, Marais streets, Pompidou and Picasso, with relaxed cafe breaks and a lively dinner.
Breakfast and browse at Marché des Enfants Rouges
Historic covered market with varied stalls—great for a relaxed, local breakfast.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a small plate from a different stall (Middle Eastern, Japanese, or classic French).
- Cash and cards accepted—some stalls are cash-only.
Le Marais walking tour & Place des Vosges
Explore narrow streets, boutiques, galleries and the historic Place des Vosges green square.
Tips from local experts:
- Pop into small galleries and concept shops on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois.
- Place des Vosges is perfect for a short rest on a bench.
Lunch at Breizh Café Le Marais (crepes & galettes)
Seasonal Breton crepes and savory galettes—great for a lighter midday meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a buckwheat galette with cider for a local pairing.
- If there’s a wait, a short walk in the Marais will pass the time.
Afternoon at Centre Pompidou (modern & contemporary art)
Explore the modern art collection and take in views from the upper levels.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy a ticket in advance to avoid lines; check temporary exhibitions.
- The library and rooftop views are less crowded than main galleries.
Coffee break at Fragments (small specialty cafe)
A local, high-quality coffee shop—good spot to recharge after museums.
Tips from local experts:
- Popular for great espresso and a calm atmosphere; seating is limited.
- Order a pastry to accompany your coffee.
Late afternoon at Musée Picasso-Paris
Focused visit to Picasso's works and the evolving exhibitions in a charming Marais museum.
Tips from local experts:
- Smaller than some museums—1–1.5 hours is a good visit length.
- Check for temporary exhibits and reserve tickets if needed.
Dinner at Le Mary Celeste (creative small plates)
Casual, lively spot with small plates and natural wines—local favorite in the Marais.
Tips from local experts:
- No reservations for small groups—arrive early or expect a short wait.
- Share several small plates to sample a variety.
Day 3
Montmartre morning, then a relaxed afternoon by Canal Saint‑Martin and Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont, finishing with a lively Bastille dinner.
Visit Basilique du Sacré‑Cœur
Enjoy panoramic city views from the steps and a visit to the basilica interior.
Tips from local experts:
- Early morning is quieter and cooler for the hill climb.
- Watch your belongings in crowded areas around Place du Tertre.
Stroll Place du Tertre & Montmartre streets
Wander the artists' square and nearby winding streets for local charm and views.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want a portrait, confirm price first with street artists.
- Walk down towards Rue des Abbesses for quieter cafés.
Brunch at La Maison Rose
Iconic Montmartre cafe—perfect for a leisurely brunch and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Photogenic spot, but indoor seating is limited—arrive early for brunch.
- Pair dishes with a café or light wine for a relaxed start to the day.
Transfer: Metro/walk to Canal Saint‑Martin
Use Metro for a quicker cross-city transfer to a more local neighborhood vibe.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy single tickets or a carnet of 10 for multiple metro rides.
- Check RATP apps for best route and disruptions.
Stroll Canal Saint‑Martin & coffee at Ten Belles Boulangerie
Walk the canal, watch locals, and enjoy excellent coffee and pastries.
Tips from local experts:
- Canal banks are perfect for a slow walk—watch for occasional markets or pop-ups.
- Ten Belles is small; take away to sit by the canal if it's crowded.
Transfer: short walk to Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont
Walk northeast to the leafy Buttes‑Chaumont for a contrasting park experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time for uphill paths inside the park—comfortable shoes recommended.
Relax at Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont
Explore cliffs, bridges and viewpoints in one of Paris's most scenic parks.
Tips from local experts:
- The park has varied terrain—ideal for a mellow hike and city views.
- Great spot for late-afternoon photos as light softens.
Break at Le Pavillon des Canaux
Quirky canal-side café perfect for a restorative tea or coffee break.
Tips from local experts:
- The cafe decor is playful—a good spot for relaxation after the park.
- Order a light snack if you plan a later dinner.
Transfer to Bastille area
Short metro or taxi ride to the Bastille neighborhood for dinner and evening atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- Use metro line 5 or 2 depending on your starting point; Bastille is lively at night.
- Keep a bit of buffer time for metro trains or a short taxi if tired.
Dinner at Le Chateaubriand (modern bistro)
End your trip with an inventive, well-regarded bistro experience—book ahead if possible.
Tips from local experts:
- Tasting menus are popular; ask about the chef's menu for a full experience.
- Reservations are recommended; arrive on time for your table.
