The Pont Alexandre III bridge illuminated at night in Paris, France

Paris travel guide: what to see, and a 3-day itinerary

Paris is known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and distinct neighborhoods. Visitors can explore historical sites, view significant art collections, and experience Parisian cafe culture. The city's layout encourages walking, with many attractions accessible on foot or via efficient public transport.

A first-time visit to Paris typically benefits from three to five full days. This allows sufficient time to cover major attractions without rushing, offering a balance between sightseeing and experiencing the local atmosphere. Shorter trips might require prioritizing specific interests.

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When to go

April to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, with moderate temperatures and less rain than winter. Spring brings blooming gardens, while autumn provides comfortable conditions for walking and outdoor dining, avoiding the peak summer crowds and heat.

What to see in Paris

Arc de Triomphe

4.7★ · 298,923 reviews

Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
Eiffel Tower

4.7★ · 494,652 reviews

Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France
Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris

4.7★ · 100,008 reviews

6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
Louvre Museum

4.7★ · 377,277 reviews

75001 Paris, France
Musée d'Orsay

4.8★ · 117,289 reviews

Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, 75007 Paris, France
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre

4.7★ · 168,114 reviews

35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
Panthéon

4.6★ · 69,729 reviews

Pl. du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
Tuileries Garden

4.6★ · 119,469 reviews

75001 Paris, France
Sainte-Chapelle

4.6★ · 50,266 reviews

10 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
Domaine National du Palais-Royal

4.6★ · 21,449 reviews

75001 Paris, France
Tour Saint-Jacques

4.5★ · 5,439 reviews

Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques, 75004 Paris, France
Gustave Eiffel's office

4.5★ · 1,319 reviews

5 Av. Anatole France 3è étage, 75007 Paris, France
Petit Palais

4.7★ · 26,130 reviews

Av. Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris, France
Carnavalet Museum

4.7★ · 12,732 reviews

23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris, France
Musée Rodin

4.7★ · 20,975 reviews

77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France
Musée de l'Orangerie

4.6★ · 24,850 reviews

Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris, France
Jardin du Luxembourg

4.7★ · 129,155 reviews

75006 Paris, France
Parc Monceau

4.6★ · 24,044 reviews

75008 Paris, France
Jardin des Plantes

4.6★ · 51,177 reviews

75005 Paris, France

3 days in Paris: a suggested itinerary

Day 1 — Iconic Art & River Views

Louvre Museum · 4.7★
Explore vast collections of art and historical artifacts.
Tuileries Garden · 4.6★
Relax in this large public garden near the museum.
Musée d'Orsay · 4.8★
Discover Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
Eiffel Tower · 4.7★
See the city's most famous landmark, especially at sunset.

Day 2 — Historic Islands & Latin Quarter

Sainte-Chapelle · 4.6★
Admire the stunning stained-glass windows.
Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris · 4.7★
Observe the exterior of this historic Gothic cathedral.
Le Peloton Café · 4.7★
Grab a coffee and light bite in the city center.
Jardin du Luxembourg · 4.7★
Enjoy a stroll in this large, formal garden.

Day 3 — Grand Perspectives & Bohemian Heights

Arc de Triomphe · 4.7★
Climb to the top for views down the Champs-Élysées.
Petit Palais · 4.7★
Explore this fine arts museum with a grand architectural setting.
Sacrée Fleur Montmartre · 4.8★
Enjoy a traditional French meal in the Montmartre area.
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre · 4.7★
Ascend for panoramic city views and visit the basilica.

Where to eat

Le Ju'

4.8★ · 13,387 reviews

16 Rue des Archives, 75004 Paris, France
Sphère

4.8★ · 14,731 reviews

18 Rue La Boétie, 75008 Paris, France
Sacrée Fleur Montmartre

4.8★ · 3,701 reviews

50 Rue de Clignancourt, 75018 Paris, France
C’est Comme À La Maison - CCALM

4.9★ · 493 reviews

6 Rue Geoffroy l'Angevin, 75004 Paris, France
Magnolia

4.9★ · 594 reviews

5 Rue Henry Monnier, 75009 Paris, France
Le Vent d'Armor

4.9★ · 539 reviews

25 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris, France
Le Peloton Café

4.7★ · 1,646 reviews

17 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, 75004 Paris, France
BlackBird Coffee

4.7★ · 862 reviews

77 Rue du Temple, 75003 Paris, France
Baguett's Café

4.7★ · 5,748 reviews

33 Rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris, France