Paris is magic. You feel it the moment you step out of the metro and catch your first glimpse of a cobbled street, a quiet café terrace, or a flash of the Eiffel Tower. Sure, two days might not be enough to “do it all,” but if you plan smartly, you’ll leave with your heart full and your camera roll overflowing.
I’ve done Paris in a weekend more than once—sometimes solo, sometimes with friends—and I’ve learned how to make the most of a quick trip. You won’t need to rush through museums or eat on the go. In fact, this itinerary is all about balance: seeing the musts, wandering a little, and sipping wine while watching the world go by.
What This Itinerary Covers
This guide is for anyone craving a little bit of everything: iconic landmarks, cozy hidden gems, food (lots of food), and those quiet Parisian moments that stick with you forever. Whether it’s your first visit or your fourth, you’ll find something to fall in love with.
Here’s how we’ll break it down:
- Day 1: Classic Paris – Think Eiffel Tower, the Seine, croissants, and timeless elegance
- Day 2: Artistic & Local Paris – Montmartre, hidden passages, and a deeper dive into local life
- Plus: Where to stay, how to get around, and tips that’ll save your sanity
But first, let’s talk logistics.
Where to Stay for a Short Trip to Paris
For two days in Paris, location is everything. You don’t want to spend half your time commuting, especially when every minute counts. I recommend staying in one of these central arrondissements:
- 1st Arrondissement (Louvre area): Perfect for walking to major sights
- Le Marais (3rd/4th): Trendy, vibrant, and full of character
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th): Classic charm, quiet streets, and a literary soul
If you’re booking last-minute or on a budget, Montmartre (18th) can work too. It’s a bit farther from the city center, but it has its own charm and a metro ride makes everything accessible.
My personal pick? A tiny Airbnb near Rue de Rivoli with a balcony just big enough for one chair and a coffee cup. Pure bliss.
How to Get Around Paris in 2 Days
Here’s the good news: Paris is walkable. That said, don’t be afraid to hop on the metro—it’s fast, safe, and runs almost everywhere.
- Get a “carnet” of 10 metro tickets or use a Navigo Easy pass for unlimited travel
- Use Google Maps or the Citymapper app for easy navigation
- Don’t overlook buses—they offer great views and are easy to hop on/off
And yes, you could rent a scooter or bike. But unless you’re super confident in city traffic, walking and metro is the stress-free way.
Day 1 – Classic Paris
Start Your Morning at a Parisian Café
There’s no better way to begin your day than with a flaky, buttery croissant and a strong café crème. Find a local bakery (you can’t go wrong with ones that say “Boulangerie Artisanale”) and grab a seat outside.
Try: Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés — a little touristy, yes, but sipping your coffee where Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir once sat? Worth it.
Breakfast Tip: Most Parisians keep it simple—pastry + coffee. Don’t expect eggs and bacon unless you’re at a brunch spot.
Stroll Through Île de la Cité and Visit Notre-Dame
From your café, make your way to Île de la Cité, the island heart of Paris. Even though Notre-Dame is still under renovation (expected to reopen in 2024), you can walk around it and feel its powerful presence. The nearby Square Jean XXIII offers a lovely garden view behind the cathedral.
Right next door, don’t miss Sainte-Chapelle. It’s smaller, lesser-known, and jaw-dropping with its 13-meter stained glass windows.
Tip: Buy a skip-the-line combo ticket for Sainte-Chapelle and the nearby Conciergerie (Marie Antoinette’s last stop).
Walk Along the Seine Toward the Louvre
From Notre-Dame, cross the river and stroll along the Seine toward the Louvre Museum. The riverbanks are lined with green bookstalls (bouquinistes) selling old books, vintage prints, and souvenirs. It’s a postcard-perfect walk.
If you’re a museum lover, the Louvre could take hours. But with only two days, be strategic:
- Focus on the Denon Wing (hello, Mona Lisa and The Wedding at Cana)
- Take a quick walk through the Cour Napoléon and snap a photo of the glass pyramid
- If time is tight, admire the architecture from the outside and head on
Pro Tip: Reserve your Louvre tickets in advance for a timed entry. It gets very crowded, even in off-season.
Lunch in the Tuileries or at a Local Bistro
After the Louvre, walk through the Tuileries Garden. If the weather’s nice, grab a sandwich or crepe from a nearby vendor and eat by the fountains.
Or head to a classic bistro like Le Fumoir just steps from the museum.
What to try: Quiche Lorraine, Croque Monsieur, or a simple Salade Niçoise. And yes, a glass of wine at lunch is totally normal.
Afternoon: Eiffel Tower & Seine River Cruise
No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Take the metro or walk to Trocadéro Gardens for the best views. This is where you get that iconic photo with the tower perfectly framed.
If you want to go up the Eiffel Tower:
- Book skip-the-line tickets to the summit
- Allow at least 1.5–2 hours, including wait times
- Be aware: security is tight, and it can get windy up top
After that, rest your legs with a Seine River cruise. It’s relaxing, especially after a long walking day, and you’ll float past landmarks like the Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame, and Pont Alexandre III.
Tip: Go around sunset or after dark—Paris at night is pure romance.
Dinner in Saint-Germain or the Latin Quarter
For your first night, pick a neighborhood full of charm. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is cozy, classic, and full of great restaurants. The Latin Quarter has livelier vibes and more budget options.
Restaurant Ideas:
- Le Procope – One of Paris’ oldest cafés, dripping with history
- L’Avant Comptoir – A standing wine and tapas bar that’s always buzzing
- Bouillon Racine – Beautiful Art Nouveau interior, solid French classics
End the Day with a Night View of Paris
If your legs aren’t too tired, walk up to the Pont Neuf or Pont des Arts for a final night view over the Seine. The lights reflecting on the water, street musicians playing nearby, and the Eiffel Tower sparkling on the hour—it’s a memory you won’t forget.
Day 2 – Artistic & Local Paris
Morning in Montmartre
Start your second day in the charming hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre. This area once drew artists like Picasso, Renoir, and Toulouse-Lautrec, and it still feels like a village within the city.
Begin at Place du Tertre, the little square where artists still sell and paint portraits. Yes, it’s touristy, but the vibe is fun—especially in the morning before the crowds roll in.
From there, walk just a few minutes uphill to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The view from the steps is one of the best in Paris. You can also climb to the dome (300 steps, no elevator) if you want a 360° panorama.
Hidden gem: Just behind the basilica, wander the quiet backstreets like Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Place Dalida. They’re some of the most photogenic spots in Montmartre.
Snack or Brunch at a Local Favorite
You’ve earned a treat. Either stop at a bakery for a warm pain au chocolat, or grab a seat at a Montmartre café.
Try:
- Le Grenier à Pain – Award-winning baguettes
- Hardware Société – Australian-style brunch with a French twist
Explore Paris’ Hidden Passages
After Montmartre, head to the 2nd arrondissement to explore Les Passages Couverts—glass-roofed arcades from the 1800s. These are tucked between buildings, and many tourists miss them completely.
Some favorites:
- Passage des Panoramas – Old-school charm and cool little shops
- Galerie Vivienne – Chic, quiet, and filled with bookstores and wine bars
They’re great for window-shopping and taking a break from the summer heat or rainy days.
Lunch in the Marais
Next, make your way to the Marais, one of Paris’s trendiest and most historic neighborhoods. Think medieval streets, boutique shops, falafel joints, and secret courtyards.
Lunch Options:
- L’As du Fallafel – Iconic falafel sandwich spot (expect a line!)
- Chez Janou – For Provençal vibes and the biggest chocolate mousse you’ve ever seen
- Breizh Café – For savory buckwheat galettes and sweet crepes
After lunch, take a stroll through Place des Vosges—a peaceful square surrounded by perfect red-brick architecture. Victor Hugo’s house is here too (and open to visitors if you have time).
Afternoon at the Musée d’Orsay or Rodin Museum
Skip the long lines at the Louvre today and head to the Musée d’Orsay instead. Housed in a former train station, this museum has an incredible collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
You’ll see works by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and more. Even the building itself is a masterpiece.
If you want something smaller and quieter, the Rodin Museum is a hidden gem. The sculpture garden alone is worth the visit—and it’s less than 15 minutes away on foot.
Evening Picnic or Wine & Cheese Dinner
On your last night in Paris, keep it simple—and soak up the atmosphere.
If it’s a warm evening, grab picnic supplies from a local market or Monoprix: a baguette, some cheese, grapes, and a bottle of wine. Head to the banks of the Seine, Canal Saint-Martin, or Champ de Mars and enjoy the golden hour like the locals do.
Not into picnics? Try a wine bar like:
- Le Baron Rouge – For laid-back local vibes and charcuterie
- La Buvette – Tiny, natural wine-focused spot with great small plates
Optional: End at a Jazz Bar or Rooftop View
If you still have energy (or caffeine), treat yourself to one last Parisian experience:
Live Jazz:
- Le Caveau de la Huchette – Historic basement club in the Latin Quarter
- Sunset Sunside – Modern but cozy jazz venue near Châtelet
Rooftop Bars:
- Le Perchoir – Trendy rooftop with amazing city views
- Terrass’’ Hotel in Montmartre – A bit quieter, perfect nightcap setting
With two days under your belt, you’ll have seen the essential sights and experienced a slice of real Paris life. All without feeling like you sprinted through a checklist.
Practical Travel Tips for 2 Days in Paris
A short trip can still be smooth and stress-free if you plan smart. Here’s what I’ve learned from multiple weekend trips to Paris—stuff I wish someone had told me the first time.
1. Don’t Overplan, But Prioritize
It’s tempting to cram in everything, but the truth is: Paris is best enjoyed slowly. Two or three major sights per day is enough. Leave room for spontaneous discoveries—like stumbling on a street musician or an outdoor art market.
🗓 Tip: List your top 2 must-sees per day. Then treat everything else as a bonus.
2. Booking Tickets in Advance Saves Time
For places like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or Sainte-Chapelle, buying tickets online ahead of time will save you hours in line. Most places offer timed entry now—stick to those windows, or risk being turned away.
Pro Tip: Some attractions (like Sainte-Chapelle) offer combo tickets with nearby sights.
3. Language & Cultural Basics
Parisians get a bad rap for being rude, but honestly—it’s all about respect. Learn a few key phrases and use them with a smile:
- Bonjour (hello)
- Merci (thank you)
- Excusez-moi (excuse me)
- Parlez-vous anglais ? (do you speak English?)
Always greet shopkeepers when entering or leaving a store. It’s considered rude not to.
Etiquette Tip: Don’t talk loudly in public places (especially the metro). Parisians are generally quiet in public.
4. Getting Around: Metro, Walking & Ride Shares
- The Paris Metro is fast, cheap, and reliable. Each ride costs about €2.15 unless you buy a pass.
- The Navigo Easy Pass is a smart option for unlimited rides over a couple of days.
- Walking is often faster than taking the metro short distances—especially in central areas.
- Avoid driving. Streets are narrow, parking is a nightmare, and traffic is unpredictable.
Need a ride? Use Bolt, Uber, or the French app G7 Taxi.
5. Budget Breakdown (Per Day)
Here’s a rough idea of what a short trip to Paris might cost you:
| Item | Budget (€) | Mid-Range (€) | Splurge (€) |
| Accommodation (per night) | 60–100 | 120–200 | 250+ |
| Meals (3 per day) | 30–40 | 60–80 | 100+ |
| Museums & Tickets | 10–25 | 30–50 | 60+ |
| Transport (metro, pass) | 7–10 | 10–15 | 15–20 |
| Souvenirs & Snacks | 10–20 | 20–30 | 50+ |
| Estimated Total/Day | ~120 | ~200 | ~300+ |
Money Tip: Most places take card, but it’s smart to carry a little cash, especially for bakeries and smaller shops.
6. Safety Tips (Especially for Solo Travelers)
Paris is generally safe, but it’s still a big city. Watch for:
- Pickpockets, especially around major sights and on the metro
- Tourist scams, like fake petitions or people pretending to “find” rings and asking for money
- Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas or deserted metro stations
Keep your bag zipped, carry it in front of you in crowds, and don’t flash expensive cameras or jewelry.
Final Thoughts: Two Days in Paris is More Than Enough for Magic
You might hear people say, “You can’t do Paris in just two days.” And while that’s true—you can’t do it all—you can definitely feel Paris in two days. And that’s what matters most.
You’ll leave with a mix of moments: standing beneath the Eiffel Tower, sipping coffee in a tucked-away café, watching boats pass under stone bridges, and walking streets that once inspired poets and painters. That’s the real Paris—and two days is enough to touch it.
Go in with the right mindset. Don’t rush. Don’t try to tick off everything on a travel blog list. Instead, chase the small things: the smell of warm bread, the hum of metro doors closing, the soft glow of the city at dusk.
Trust me—Paris leaves a mark. Even in just 48 hours.
Sample Hour-by-Hour Itinerary
To make it easier, here’s a sample hour-by-hour breakdown based on everything we’ve covered.
Day 1 – Classic Paris
| Time | Activity |
| 8:00 AM | Croissant + café crème at a sidewalk café |
| 9:00 AM | Visit Île de la Cité, walk around Notre-Dame |
| 10:00 AM | Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie |
| 11:30 AM | Walk along the Seine toward the Louvre |
| 12:00 PM | Quick photo stop at the Louvre pyramid |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch in the Tuileries or nearby bistro |
| 2:00 PM | Head to Eiffel Tower (Trocadéro stop) |
| 2:30 PM | Eiffel Tower visit (or view from below) |
| 4:30 PM | Relax on a Seine River cruise |
| 6:00 PM | Return to hotel, freshen up |
| 7:30 PM | Dinner in Saint-Germain or Latin Quarter |
| 9:00 PM | Stroll to Pont des Arts / night views |
| 10:00 PM | Eiffel Tower sparkle (every hour after dark) |
Day 2 – Local & Artistic Paris
| Time | Activity |
| 8:30 AM | Start in Montmartre (Place du Tertre) |
| 9:30 AM | Visit Sacré-Cœur and stroll backstreets |
| 11:00 AM | Brunch or snack nearby |
| 12:00 PM | Explore the covered passages (2nd Arr.) |
| 1:00 PM | Head to the Marais for lunch |
| 2:30 PM | Walk around Place des Vosges |
| 3:30 PM | Visit Musée d’Orsay or Rodin Museum |
| 5:30 PM | Grab picnic supplies or chill at hotel |
| 7:00 PM | Picnic on the Seine or rooftop drink |
| 9:00 PM | Optional jazz bar, walk, or early rest |
Paris in 2 Days: Quick Recap
- Day 1: Landmarks, river cruise, classic neighborhoods
- Day 2: Artistic corners, hidden streets, local vibes
- Total walking: About 8–10 km per day (wear comfy shoes!)
- Biggest tip: Savor the in-between moments—they’re the best part
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