3-Day Paris Travel Guide (2025): Top Places to Visit, Eat & Explore

3-Day Itinerary for Paris: Best Things to Do, Eat & See

Paris—the city of lights, romance, and buttery croissants. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning visitor, this 3-day itinerary will guide you through iconic sights, irresistible eats, and unforgettable moments. Let’s make the most of your Parisian adventure!

Day 1: Classic Paris Landmarks

🗼 Morning: Eiffel Tower & Seine River

• Start your day at the Eiffel Tower. Book your tickets in advance to skip long lines.
• Take a scenic Seine River cruise—great for photos and a relaxed intro to the city.

🍽️ Lunch: Le Café de l'Homme

• Elegant dining with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Try their steak tartare or a light salade niçoise.

🏛️ Afternoon: Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe

• Stroll the iconic Champs-Élysées. Shop or just enjoy the vibrant street life.
• Climb the Arc de Triomphe for stunning panoramic views of Paris.

🌆 Evening: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

• Wander the artistic streets of Montmartre. Visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica at sunset.
• Have dinner at a local bistro—look for one with live music for extra charm.

Day 2: Art, Culture & Cuisine

🎨 Morning: Louvre Museum

• Arrive early to beat the crowd. Prioritize the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and Venus de Milo.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper context into the artwork and history.

☕ Lunch: Angelina Paris

• Famous for decadent hot chocolate and the Mont-Blanc pastry. A must-visit for dessert lovers.

🏰 Afternoon: Notre-Dame & Latin Quarter

• See the facade of Notre-Dame Cathedral. Restoration is ongoing but the area is scenic.
• Explore the Latin Quarter—cobblestone alleys, cafés, and historic bookshops like Shakespeare & Co.

🍷 Evening: Dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

• Dine at Le Procope or Les Deux Magots, both rich in literary and cultural history.

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

🌿 Morning: Luxembourg Gardens

• Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens and watch locals play chess or tennis.
• Perfect for a relaxing picnic breakfast with views of the Luxembourg Palace.

🛍️ Late Morning: Le Marais

• Trendy and historic. Visit art galleries, vintage boutiques, and kosher delis.
• Stop by Place des Vosges, one of the oldest and prettiest squares in Paris.

🥙 Lunch: L’As du Fallafel or Café Charlot

• L’As du Fallafel offers legendary street food. Expect lines—it’s worth it!
• Café Charlot offers more traditional Parisian lunch and sidewalk seating.

🏛️ Afternoon: Musée d’Orsay or Palais Garnier

• Musée d’Orsay houses Monet, Van Gogh, and other Impressionist masters.
• Alternatively, tour the lavish Palais Garnier—its grand staircase is breathtaking.

🌙 Evening: Sunset Picnic or Dinner Cruise

• Head to the banks of the Seine with wine, cheese, and a baguette for a sunset picnic.
• Or book a dinner cruise to enjoy illuminated views of Paris by night.

💡 Travel Tips

• Buy a Paris Museum Pass to save on entry fees and skip lines.
• Use the metro for fast, cheap transportation. A carnet (bundle of 10 tickets) saves money.
• Learn basic French greetings—locals will appreciate the effort.
• Use apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, and TheFork for easy navigation and dining.

🧳 Before You Go

• Best months to visit are April–June and September–October (mild weather, fewer crowds).
• Validate your metro ticket or risk a fine.
• Bring a reusable bottle—Paris has free public water fountains.

💶 Budgeting Tips

• Average daily cost: €100–€150 (mid-range).
• Eat breakfast at bakeries, picnic for lunch, dine out for dinner to save money.
• Free museum entry on the first Sunday of the month—plan accordingly.
• Walking is free—and often the best way to experience the city!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to tip in Paris?
A: No, service is included, but rounding up or a few extra euros for great service is appreciated.

Q: Is Paris safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes. Stick to well-lit areas at night and keep an eye on valuables in crowded places.

Q: Can I drink tap water?
A: Absolutely. Tap water in Paris is clean and safe.

Disclaimer: This blog is based on personal travel experience and public recommendations. No part of this content is sponsored or paid. Always double-check current hours, prices, and policies before visiting attractions or restaurants.