Paris in 3 days: Itinerary of best things to see and do

Welcoming its visitors with its culture and artistic treasures, the city of Paris needs no introduction. The moment you set foot in Paris, you’ll feel the seductive vibe of the place getting on to your skin and you fall in love with it, immediately. That’s how lovely Paris is. Art, culture, cuisine, there is so much to explore in Paris that it might take a lifetime to get to the depths of the city. But, what if you are in Paris for just three days? Worry not, for here are some of the best things to see in Paris in 3 days to make the most of the city.

Day 1:

Morning:

Notre-Dame de Paris

What’s a better way to begin your day in Paris than by seeking a divine connection at Notre-Dame? Strikingly opulent, the medieval cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture at its best. Gaze through the stained glass paintings, discover the hidden secrets of Notre-Dame, light a candle, say a prayer, listen to the amazing choir, and be enchanted by the historical monument.

Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
Timings: Monday to Friday – 8 am to 6.45 pm, Saturday & Sunday – 8 am to 6.45 pm
Entry: Free

Luxembourg Gardens

It’s early in the morning, you are in Paris, and you’re overwhelmed by the beauty. Where do you go? We say the Luxembourg Gardens. Carpeted with tree-lined promenades, flower beds, and modern sailboats, the picturesque Luxembourg Gardens is refreshingly beautiful and is a great place for a picnic. Get a bottle of wine, some cheese, crepes, and settle down at Luxembourg Gardens. You are sorted!

Address: 75006 Paris, France
Timings: 7.30 am to 9.30 pm (depending on the season)
Entry: Free

Afternoon:

L’Arc de Triomphe

Grab a quick lunch and it’s time to go visit L’Arc de Triomphe. Basking under the Sun, L’Arc de Triomphe set at the edge of Champs-Elysees is one of the best things to see in Paris in 3 days. Wander around the stunning monument, click some photographs, make your way through the spiral staircase, and soak in the amazing views from the top.

Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
Timings: January to March – 10 am to 10.30 pm, April to September – 10 am to 11 pm, October – December – 10 am to 10.30 pm
Entry: Full price – €12

Champs-Élysées

When you are in Paris, it is mandatory that you visit the expansive avenue of iconic Champs-Élysées. It’s not far a walk from the L’Arc de Triomphe. Stop by the luxury shopping stores, witness a contemporary cabaret, and catch an extraordinary art show in Grand Palais. With a variety of shops and restaurants, Champs-Élysées will keep you entertained for long.

Address: 75008 Paris, France
Timings: 24 hours
Entry: Free

Jardin des Tuileries

Tired of all the shopping? Unwind at the tranquil gardens of Tuileries. Tucked between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde, the French style garden of Jardin des Tuileries is fascinating with its beauty and history. Walk along the symmetrically laid out paths of the garden admiring its beauty, get cozy with your favourite book under the trees, and indulge in people-watching.

Address: 113 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Timings: Last Sunday in September to Last Sunday in March – 7:30 am to 7.30 pm, from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in September – 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Entry: Free

Also read: Free walking tours in Paris

Evening:

Montmartre

The evening is here and it is time for some scenic views. Perched atop a small hill, the neighbourhood of Montmartre is an interesting escape from Paris that is populated with artists of all kinds. Ride on a funicular to the top, revel in the bohemian vibe, go on a food-tasting spree, and enjoy the breathtaking views. Montmartre is one of the best things to see in Paris in 3 days and is unabashedly romantic.

Address: 75018 Paris, France
Timings: 24 hours
Entry: Free

Day 2:

Morning:

You can begin your day 2, by either heading on to Disneyland Paris or the Palace of Versailles, depending on your interest.

Disneyland Paris

If you are a family with kids, then you should definitely try including Disneyland Paris in your Paris itinerary. Always packed with people, Disneyland Paris is a popular spot in Paris and deserves proper planning before you visit. But once you are in, you will thoroughly enjoy it. Meet your favorite cartoon characters, go zooming in the thrilling adventure rides, take part in the colorful parades, and feel the Disneyland magic come alive.

Address: 77777 Marne-la-Vallée, France
Timings: Disneyland Park – 10 am to 11 pm, Walt Disney Studios Park – 10 am to 8 pm
Entry: Starts from €42 (package dependent)

The Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles or Château de Versailles as it is popularly known is one of the most famous monuments that showcases the French heritage. Explore the Château with the help of an audio guide that brings the best of it, learn the story of the French Kings through the paintings, watch the fountains dance under the lights, and take a stroll through the garden.

Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 pm (low season), 9 pm to 6.30 pm (high season), closed on Mondays
Entry: Free for everyone below 18 years and European residents below; Château ticket: €15, €13; Musical Gardens: €8.50; Palace: €18; Passport with musical gardens or musical fountain shows: €27; Free on 1st Sunday from November to March

Afternoon:

Louvre

It’s the second day in Paris and it would literally be a sin not to explore the Louvre. Set on the right bank of River Seine, the museum of Louvre is where you can discover a wealth of treasures. Incredibly popular, Louvre is the world’s third most visited museum and the ever-buzzing crowd in place is a testimony. Explore the massive museum, glance through the exhibitions that carry a wide range of artworks, and stop by the iconic Mona Lisa painting. Let us assure you that the Louvre always stands up to its expectations.

Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Timings: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday – 9 am to 6 pm, Wednesday & Friday – 9 am to 9.45 pm, Closed on Tuesdays, October – March – Free on first Sunday
Entry: Musée du Louvre – €17, Audio guide – €5

Evening:

Eiffel Tower

How can one not include the Eiffel Tower in the list of best things to see in Paris in 3 days?! A Paris itinerary sans the Eiffel? Surely something wrong! Looking it’s very best with the glittering lights in the evening, the landmark is where you can get the true essence of Paris. Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, marvel at the fascinating views, and toast to the beauty you witness with glasses of champagne.

Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
Timings: Mid-June to Early September – 9 am to 12.45 am, Rest of the year – 9.30 am to 11.45 pm
Entry: Adults – €17, Children (12-24 Yrs) – €14.50

River Seine Cruise

While there are so many ways to discover Paris, the best way is to go cruising along the River Seine in the evening. Begin your journey from the foot of Eiffel Tower, glide through the waters while ogling at the finest of monuments. Be enchanted by the spectacular sunset, and strike up a romance with your loved one under the open sky. After the cruise, you can stop by one of the quaint cafes that dot the river side.

Address: Pont Alexandre III, 75008 Paris, France
Timings: 24 hrs
Entry: Varies

Day 3:

Castles of Loire Valley

So it’s your final day in Paris and you are wondering how to end your trip on a high, Castles of Loire Valley is the ideal place to go. Adorned by castles all the way, the fairy-tale destination of Castles of Loire Valley is where you can feel Renaissance at its full-fledge. Take a tour along the River Loire admiring the castles, understand the architectural heritage of the historic destination, and say your goodbye to the gorgeous city of Paris.

Also Read: Top 5 Mystical Castles of Europe

Address: France (Centre, Pays de la Loire)
Timings: 24 hrs
Entry: Varies

And when you are returning from Paris, make sure you get these most fantastic souvenirs to remember the city by.

---

Finding it difficult to make a complete Paris Itinerary or any other European destination? For the most intelligent itinerary and routing, try Pickyourtrail.