Planning a trip to Paris can be as overwhelming as trying to decide which croissant to get at your local bakery. With so many iconic landmarks and charming neighborhoods, it’s easy to feel lost. Don’t worry; here’s a three-day itinerary that balances the must-see sights with local experiences that will make you feel like a true Parisian. Just remember to leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs, or at least for all the pastries you’ll be consuming.
Day one: Eiffel Tower and the Louvre
Your Paris adventure begins at the Eiffel Tower. Get there early to avoid the long lines, which are about as long as your uncle's fishing stories. Aim for an 8:30 AM visit. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city. While you're up there, make sure to snap a selfie that oozes “I am cultured.”
After you've soaked in the sights, it’s time for a late breakfast. Head to Café de l’Homme nearby for a classic French breakfast. You’ll want to try the pain au chocolat. It’s the kind of pastry that makes you question why you ever considered a bagel for breakfast.
- 8:30 AM: Visit the Eiffel Tower
- 10:00 AM: Breakfast at Café de l’Homme
Next stop? The Louvre. You’ll want to head over by 11:30 AM. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance to skip the lines. Inside, you’ll find more art than you can shake a baguette at. Make a beeline for the Mona Lisa, but do brace yourself for the crowd. It’s like a rock concert, but with fewer guitars and more intrigue.
- 11:30 AM: Arrive at the Louvre
- 12:00 PM: Explore the museum
After you’ve seen the masterpieces, take a leisurely lunch at Le Fumoir, just a stone's throw from the Louvre. Try the duck confit; it’s a dish that will have you dreaming for days afterward.
- 2:30 PM: Lunch at Le Fumoir
In the afternoon, stroll through the Tuileries Garden. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and maybe take a nap on a bench like the locals do. You’ll want to be recharged for your evening adventure.
As the sun sets, head to Montmartre. Get lost in its winding streets, then visit the Sacré-Cœur. The view at dusk is a sight to behold. Follow this with dinner at Le Consulat, where you can savor traditional French cuisine while soaking in the artistic vibe of the neighborhood.
- 5:00 PM: Stroll through Tuileries Garden
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at Le Consulat
Day two: Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Day two kicks off in Le Marais, one of Paris’s trendiest neighborhoods. Grab breakfast at Chez Janou, where the chocolate mousse is legendary. Try not to eat it all in one go; you’ll need some energy for the day ahead.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Chez Janou
After breakfast, explore the area’s boutiques and the Place des Vosges. It’s a beautiful square that’s perfect for people-watching. You might even spot a chic Parisian who’s never heard of sweatpants.
When hunger strikes again, grab a falafel at L’As du Fallafel, considered the best in the city. Be prepared for a line, but trust me, it’s worth it. It’s the kind of meal that could make even the most hardened traveler shed a tear.
- 11:00 AM: Explore Le Marais
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at L’As du Fallafel
In the afternoon, make your way to Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Pop into the historic Café de Flore for a coffee and to soak in the literary vibes. You might feel inspired to write the next great French novel or at least your travel journal.
Next, visit the Luxembourg Gardens. It’s the perfect spot for a post-lunch stroll or a quick nap on the grass. Just try to keep it classy; we’re in Paris after all.
- 2:30 PM: Coffee at Café de Flore
- 3:30 PM: Visit Luxembourg Gardens
As evening falls, indulge in dinner at Le Procope, the oldest café in Paris. Their coq au vin is a must-try. You might even feel like a character in a classic French film while dining there.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at Le Procope
Day three: A mix of culture and local charm
Your final day is all about mixing the classic with the quirky. Start with breakfast at Angelina, famous for its hot chocolate that could make a snowstorm feel cozy. Pair it with a pastry, because why not?
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Angelina
Afterward, pay a visit to the Musée d'Orsay. The building itself is a work of art. If you love Impressionist paintings, you're in for a treat. Don't forget to check out the clock inside; it's quite the Instagram moment.
Next, venture to the Latin Quarter for lunch. Try Le Petit Pontoise for a meal that feels like home-cooked goodness. You’ll be wishing you could take the chef home with you.
- 11:00 AM: Visit Musée d'Orsay
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at Le Petit Pontoise
In the afternoon, explore the nearby Panthéon. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a great place to ponder the meaning of life—or just look at your phone.
Wrap up your Parisian adventure with a Seine River cruise at sunset. It's a beautiful way to see the city from a different perspective. Grab a glass of wine, sit back, and let the city’s lights twinkle around you.
- 3:00 PM: Visit Panthéon
- 6:00 PM: Seine River cruise
For your farewell dinner, head to Le Relais de l’Entrecôte. They serve one thing: steak frites, and they do it exceptionally well. Plus, the secret sauce is worth the trip alone. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
- 8:00 PM: Dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
Three days in Paris might seem short, but you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime and a few extra pounds from all the wonderful food. So go ahead, book that ticket, and get ready to fall in love with the City of Lights—just don’t forget to pack your appetite!