Content Summary
Discover Paris in 3 magical days: iconic monuments, world-class museums, charming neighborhoods. Complete itinerary with timings, costs, and insider Parisian tips.
Key Takeaways
- Day 1 covers iconic west Paris: Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées (€17-27 entries)
- Day 2 explores cultural heart: Louvre, Latin Quarter, Notre-Dame area (€17 + meals)
- Day 3 combines artistic Montmartre with trendy Marais district (mostly free)
- Paris Museum Pass (€65 for 2 days) provides skip-the-line access and saves money
- Metro day pass (€8.65) or Paris Visite (€29.90 for 3 days) covers all transport
- Total 3-day budget: €180-270 (budget), €360-600 (mid-range), €750+ (luxury) per person
Common Questions
What is the perfect 3-day itinerary for Paris?
Spend Day 1 exploring iconic sights from the Eiffel Tower to Champs-Élysées, Day 2 discovering the Louvre and Latin Quarter's bohemian charm, and Day 3 wandering artistic Montmartre and trendy Marais. Budget €60-90 per day including the Paris Museum Pass for skip-the-line access.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
Spring and autumn generally offer the best weather for Paris.
Practical Information
- Duration
- 3 days
- Budget Range
- EUR 150 - 600
- Best Time to Visit
- Spring/Autumn
- Difficulty Level
- Easy
Location Context
3 Days in Paris 2025: The Perfect City of Light Itinerary
Discover Paris in 3 magical days: iconic monuments, world-class museums, charming neighborhoods. Complete itinerary with timings, costs, and insider Parisian tips.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for Paris, France?
Spend Day 1 exploring iconic sights from the Eiffel Tower to Champs-Élysées, Day 2 discovering the Louvre and Latin Quarter's bohemian charm, and Day 3 wandering artistic Montmartre and trendy Marais. Budget €60-90 per day including the Paris Museum Pass for skip-the-line access.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in Paris cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in Paris?
- • Is 3 days enough for Paris?
Your 3-Day Paris Adventure
TL;DR: Explore Paris's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 18 attractions with a budget of €€180-€750 per person.
- 1 Day 1 covers iconic west Paris: Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées (€17-27 entries)
- 2 Day 2 explores cultural heart: Louvre, Latin Quarter, Notre-Dame area (€17 + meals)
- 3 Day 3 combines artistic Montmartre with trendy Marais district (mostly free)
- 4 Paris Museum Pass (€65 for 2 days) provides skip-the-line access and saves money
- 5 Metro day pass (€8.65) or Paris Visite (€29.90 for 3 days) covers all transport
- 6 Total 3-day budget: €180-270 (budget), €360-600 (mid-range), €750+ (luxury) per person
Paris offers an incredible 3-day journey through centuries of art, culture, and romance in the world's most visited city. From the iconic Eiffel Tower piercing the skyline to the masterpieces of the Louvre, from charming Montmartre streets to elegant Marais boutiques, this carefully crafted itinerary balances must-see monuments with authentic Parisian experiences. With daily costs ranging from €60 to €250+ per person, Paris accommodates all travel styles while offering unparalleled cultural richness. The best time to visit is April-June or September-October when weather is pleasant and crowds manageable. This itinerary covers approximately 35 kilometers of exploration, perfectly paced for discovering why Paris remains the eternal City of Light.
Your 3-Day Paris Itinerary
Day 1: Iconic Paris: Eiffel Tower to Arc de Triomphe
Monuments & Icons
Day 1
Experience Paris's most famous landmarks, from the iron lady herself to the grandeur of the Champs-Élysées, capturing the essence of Parisian magnificence
Total Cost
EUR60-200
Walking Distance
12 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 12 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Eiffel Tower
Start early at Paris's most iconic monument. Take the elevator to the summit for breathtaking 360° views, then explore the second floor exhibitions. The morning light offers the best photography conditions. Book advance tickets to avoid disappointment, especially for summit access.
💡 Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets online weeks ahead. Summit access €29.40, second floor only €18.10. Stairs to 2nd floor just €11.30. Find nearby hotels to minimize commute time.
Trocadéro Gardens
Cross the Seine to Trocadéro for the classic Eiffel Tower photo opportunity. The gardens, fountains, and Palais de Chaillot create the perfect Parisian panorama. Explore Palais de Chaillot museums including maritime and architecture collections.
💡 Tip: Early morning has best light and fewer people. Warsaw Fountain performs hourly in summer
Walk along the Seine
Stroll along the riverbank towards Pont Alexandre III, Paris's most ornate bridge. The Belle Époque lampposts and golden statues epitomize Parisian elegance
💡 Tip: The bridge offers great views of Invalides dome and Eiffel Tower together
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Café de l'Homme • Modern French with Eiffel Tower views
💰 EUR25-45 per person
Must try: Prix fixe lunch menu, Sea bass, Chocolate soufflé
📝 Book terrace table for views
Budget option: Rue Cler market street for €10-15 options
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Arc de Triomphe
Climb 284 steps to the top of Napoleon's triumphal arch for spectacular views down all 12 radiating avenues. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath honors fallen soldiers
💡 Tip: Use underground passage to reach the arch - never attempt to cross the chaotic roundabout! Sunset timing magical
Champs-Élysées
Stroll down the world's most famous avenue from Arc de Triomphe toward Place de la Concorde. Window shop at luxury flagships, stop for macarons at Ladurée, or simply people-watch from a café terrace
💡 Tip: Side streets have better value dining. Ladurée macarons €3 each but worth it for the experience
Grand Palais & Petit Palais
Admire these Belle Époque exhibition halls built for the 1900 World's Fair. Petit Palais houses free permanent collections while Grand Palais hosts major exhibitions under its magnificent glass roof
💡 Tip: Petit Palais free entry includes beautiful interior garden café. Check Grand Palais exhibition schedule
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Seine River Cruise
Board a Bateau Mouche at Pont de l'Alma for a sunset cruise. See Paris's monuments illuminated from the water - a magical perspective on the City of Light
💡 Tip: Basic cruise €15, dinner cruises €75+. Sunset departures most atmospheric. Bring a jacket - breezy on deck
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
L'Ami Jean • Modern bistro
💰 EUR35-60 per person
Must try: Parmesan soup, Rice pudding, Côte de boeuf to share
Lively Basque-influenced bistro
🌙 Evening Options
- • Eiffel Tower sparkles on the hour after dark
- • Rooftop drinks at Peninsula Paris
- • Evening stroll along illuminated Seine
🚇 Getting Around
start Point: Trocadéro metro (Lines 6, 9)
end Point: Various metro options from Champs-Élysées
metro Lines: Line 9 connects major stops, RER C for Eiffel Tower
walking Note: Comfortable shoes essential - lots of walking
🏨 Where to Stay: Stay in the 7th for Eiffel Tower proximity, or Marais/Latin Quarter for better dining and nightlife. Budget: MIJE hostels €35-60, Mid-range: Hotel Malte Opera €150-250
Day 2: Art & Culture: Louvre to Latin Quarter
Museums & History
Day 2
Immerse yourself in centuries of art and intellectual life, from the world's greatest museum to the bohemian streets where Hemingway once wandered
Total Cost
EUR60-180
Walking Distance
10 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 10 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Musée du Louvre
Navigate the world's largest museum strategically. See the big three (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory) then explore based on interests - Egyptian antiquities, French paintings, or Islamic art. Book expert-led tours to maximize your visit.
💡 Tip: Enter via less crowded Lions Gate. Download official app for routes. Wednesday/Friday evenings till 9 PM less crowded. Consider the Paris Museum Pass for skip-the-line access to 60+ museums.
Tuileries Garden
Decompress in these formal French gardens stretching from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde. Tree-lined paths, sculptures, and chairs around fountains offer classic Parisian relaxation
💡 Tip: Free green chairs throughout - grab one by the fountain. Seasonal flowers beautiful spring/summer
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Angelina • Classic French tearoom
💰 EUR20-35 per person
Must try: Hot chocolate, Mont Blanc pastry, Salade César
Belle Époque elegance
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Sainte-Chapelle
Marvel at the most stunning stained glass in the world. This 13th-century royal chapel features 15 towering windows depicting biblical scenes in jewel-like colors
💡 Tip: Best light on sunny days. Combo ticket with Conciergerie €19. Upper chapel is the masterpiece
Latin Quarter Walk
Explore the intellectual heart of Paris through winding medieval streets. Pass the Sorbonne, browse Shakespeare and Company bookstore, and soak in centuries of student life
💡 Tip: Shakespeare & Co often has author readings. Bring cash for street crêpes (€4-6)
Notre-Dame Area
While the cathedral undergoes restoration (reopening December 2024), explore Île de la Cité's surroundings. The archaeological crypt and nearby streets retain medieval Paris charm
💡 Tip: Point Zéro marks the center of France. Cathedral exterior viewable from safe distance
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Cross to the Left Bank's most sophisticated neighborhood. Window shop designer boutiques, peek into historic cafés where existentialists debated, and feel the intellectual pulse of Paris
💡 Tip: Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots tourist prices (€8 coffee) but historic. Side streets better value
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Le Comptoir du Relais • Neo-bistro excellence
💰 EUR40-70 per person
Must try: 5-course prix fixe, Terrine, Paris-Brest
Quintessential Paris bistro
🚇 Getting Around
louvre Access: Palais Royal metro closest to quieter entrance
between Sites: Walk along Seine or take Metro Line 4
evening Return: Multiple metro lines from Saint-Germain
🏨 Where to Stay: Latin Quarter offers charming budget options and student atmosphere. Saint-Germain pricier but sophisticated
Day 3: Bohemian Paris: Montmartre to Marais
Neighborhoods & Local Life
Day 3
Discover Paris's artistic soul from the hilltop village of Montmartre to the trendy galleries and falafel shops of the Marais
Total Cost
EUR50-150
Walking Distance
13 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 13 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Climb to this white-domed basilica crowning Montmartre hill. The panoramic view from the dome (300 steps) rivals the Eiffel Tower, while the Byzantine-style interior offers peaceful contrast to tourist crowds
💡 Tip: Take funicular (metro ticket valid) to avoid stairs. Early morning for smaller crowds. Dome access worth the climb
Montmartre Village
Wander cobblestone streets where Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec once lived. Place du Tertre's portrait artists, hidden vineyards, and the last windmills preserve village charm within the city
💡 Tip: Avoid portrait artist scams in Place du Tertre. La Maison Rose perfect Instagram spot. Rue de l'Abreuvoir most photogenic street
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
La Mascotte • Traditional brasserie
💰 EUR18-30 per person
Must try: Seafood platters, Steak frites, Crème brûlée
Authentic Montmartre brasserie
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Le Marais District
Explore Paris's trendiest neighborhood mixing Jewish heritage, LGBTQ+ culture, designer boutiques, and historic mansions. Every corner reveals galleries, vintage shops, or hidden courtyards
💡 Tip: Sunday most lively with shops open. Rue des Rosiers for falafel, Rue Vieille du Temple for shopping
Place des Vosges
Relax in Paris's oldest planned square (1612) with perfect symmetry of red brick arcades. Victor Hugo lived at No. 6, now a free museum. The central garden ideal for people-watching
💡 Tip: Free concerts Sunday afternoons in summer. Arcades house galleries and cafés. Bring picnic supplies
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 4+ hours
Centre Pompidou Area
Even if skipping the museum, the Pompidou's plaza buzzes with street performers, and the exterior escalators offer free city views. The Stravinsky Fountain's whimsical sculptures delight all ages
💡 Tip: Museum open till 9 PM Thursdays. Rooftop restaurant has spectacular views. Free WiFi in plaza
🏨 Where to Stay: Montmartre charming but hilly with fewer metro options. Marais central with excellent dining and nightlife
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in Paris, excluding accommodation. All prices in EUR for 2025. Paris Museum Pass and transport passes offer significant savings.
Budget Traveler
💰€60-90 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Prix fixe lunch menus excellent value
- • Picnic in parks with market supplies
- • Many museums free under 26 (EU residents)
- • Bakery breakfast under €5
3-Day Total
€180-270
Attractions
€60-90 (or €65 Museum Pass)
Meals
€75-105 total
Transport
€29.90 (3-day Paris Visite)
Extras
€15-20 (snacks, tips)
Mid-Range
💎€120-200 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Business lunch menus at top restaurants
- • Wine by the glass at quality bistros
- • Skip-the-line tickets save hours
- • Uber more reliable than taxis
3-Day Total
€360-600
Attractions
€90-150 (Museum Pass + extras)
Meals
€150-240 total
Transport
€45-75
Extras
€75-135 (shopping, cafés)
Luxury
👑€250+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Michelin dining experiences
- • Private museum guides
- • Palace hotel bars for cocktails
- • Seine dinner cruises
3-Day Total
€750+
Attractions
€150-300
Meals
€300+
Transport
€120-180
Extras
€180+ (shopping, experiences)
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Paris Museum Pass: €65 for 2 days covers 60+ attractions and skip lines
Prix fixe menus: Top restaurants offer lunch deals 50% less than dinner
Bakery meals: Fresh sandwiches €4-6, quiche €3-4
Free museums: First Sunday of month at many museums
Happy hours: 5-7 PM at most bars, cocktails €6-8 vs €12-15
Vélib bikes: €5/day for under 30-min trips
✨ Worth the Splurge
Eiffel Tower summit - extra €12 for unforgettable views
Seine dinner cruise - romantic Paris experience €100-150
Michelin lunch menu - world-class dining €65-85
Versailles day trip - €20 train + €20 entry
Opera Garnier performance - cultural highlight €50-150
Cooking class with market visit - take Paris home €150
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September-October offer mild weather (15-22°C) and manageable crowds. July-August hot with many Parisians away. December magical with Christmas lights. January-February cold but shortest museum queues.
Getting Around
Paris Metro excels - buy carnet of 10 tickets (€17.35) or day passes. Paris Visite includes airports. Walk when possible - most attractions cluster by area. Download Citymapper for navigation. Uber reliable for evenings.
Museum Strategy
Book timed entries online. Paris Museum Pass (€65/2 days) includes skip-the-line. Many free under 26 (EU). Closed Mondays: Louvre, Versailles. Closed Tuesdays: Musée d'Orsay, Centre Pompidou.
Dining Etiquette
Lunch 12-2 PM, dinner from 7:30 PM. Always greet with 'Bonjour/Bonsoir'. Bread directly on table normal. Service included but round up. Café means coffee only - brasserie for food anytime.
Safety Awareness
Generally very safe but watch for pickpockets at tourist sites and metro. Avoid Châtelet late night. Keep copies of documents. Emergency: 112. Most scams involve 'petitions' or 'found rings'.
Cultural Tips
Parisians appreciate effort in French - even 'Bonjour, parlez-vous anglais?' helps. Quieter in metros. Shops closed Sundays except Marais. August many restaurants close for vacation.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and travel style
Art Lovers
- ✓ Add Musée d'Orsay for Impressionists (Day 2)
- ✓ Include Rodin Museum and gardens
- ✓ Orangerie for Monet's Water Lilies
- ✓ More time at Louvre or return visit
Additional cost: €40-60 for extra museums
Families with Kids
- ✓ Cité des Sciences (full day option)
- ✓ Luxembourg Gardens with playground
- ✓ Boat tour instead of museums
- ✓ Disneyland Paris day trip
Savings: Many attractions free for children
Food & Wine
- ✓ Morning food market tours
- ✓ Cooking class Day 2 (€100-150)
- ✓ Wine tasting in Saint-Émilion
- ✓ Food tour of different neighborhoods
Additional cost: €100-200 for culinary experiences
Fashion & Shopping
- ✓ Full day for Champs-Élysées/Avenue Montaigne
- ✓ Vintage shopping in Marais
- ✓ Galeries Lafayette and Printemps
- ✓ Outlet shopping at La Vallée Village
Additional cost: Depends on shopping budget!
History Buffs
- ✓ Versailles full day (Day 3)
- ✓ Army Museum and Napoleon's Tomb
- ✓ Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle combo
- ✓ Catacombs underground tour
Additional cost: €30-40 for historical sites
Romance Focus
- ✓ Sunset at Sacré-Cœur
- ✓ Lock bridge at Pont des Arts
- ✓ Dinner cruise on Seine
- ✓ Champagne at Eiffel Tower bar
Additional cost: €100-200 for romantic extras
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
spring
March-May • 10-20°C, some rain
Highlights:
- • Cherry blossoms
- • Easter markets
- • Outdoor café season begins
Events:
- • Marathon de Paris
- • Nuit des Musées (May)
- • French Open tennis
summer
June-August • 20-30°C, can be hot
Highlights:
- • Long daylight (till 10 PM)
- • Paris Plages beach
- • Outdoor festivals
Events:
- • Fête de la Musique
- • Bastille Day (July 14)
- • Cinema en Plein Air
fall
September-November • 10-20°C, crisp days
Highlights:
- • Fall colors in parks
- • Cultural season returns
- • Wine harvest time
Events:
- • Heritage Days
- • Nuit Blanche art
- • Beaujolais Nouveau
winter
December-February • 0-10°C, can be gray
Highlights:
- • Christmas markets
- • Sales season January
- • Fewer tourists
- • Cozy bistros
Events:
- • Christmas illuminations
- • New Year fireworks
- • Chinese New Year
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in Paris
Three days allows you to see Paris's major highlights including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame area, and explore neighborhoods like Montmartre and Marais. You'll experience essential Paris while maintaining enjoyable pace. For deeper exploration of museums and day trips, 5-7 days ideal.
Le Marais offers central location with excellent dining and nightlife. Latin Quarter provides bohemian charm and budget options. Saint-Germain for luxury and sophistication. All connect easily by metro. Budget: €35-70 hostels, Mid-range: €120-200 hotels per night.
Budget €180-270 for basic costs (€60-90/day), €360-600 for comfortable travel (€120-200/day), or €750+ for luxury (€250+/day). This covers meals, attractions, and transport but excludes accommodation. Paris Museum Pass (€65) provides excellent value.
Book these 2-4 weeks ahead: Eiffel Tower summit tickets, timed Louvre entry, popular restaurants, Versailles tours. Paris Museum Pass can be bought on arrival. Hotels book 1-3 months ahead for best rates, especially spring/fall.
Yes, if visiting 4+ museums. The 2-day pass (€65) covers 60+ attractions and includes skip-the-line access, easily saving 2+ hours daily. Single Louvre + Versailles tickets cost €40, so the pass pays for itself quickly while saving precious time.
Spring (15-20°C) and fall (10-20°C) offer best weather with moderate crowds. Summer (20-30°C) can be hot with long days but peak tourists. Winter (0-10°C) is cold but magical with Christmas lights and no queues. Rain possible year-round - pack umbrella.
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