Three Days Paris Itinerary: How to Spend Your Time

Paris is one of those cities that feels magical every time you visit. The cafés, the sparkling Eiffel Tower, the narrow streets in Le Marais, and the museums make it a dream destination. If you’re planning your first trip or coming back to see more, this three days Paris itinerary will help you explore all the must-see sights at a relaxed pace, enjoy great food, and find a few hidden gems.

You’ll walk on historic cobblestone streets, enjoy some of the best views in Paris, visit famous museums, sip French wine, and end each day feeling like you really got to know the city. No matter if it’s your first visit or your fifth, having a flexible plan makes your trip better. This three days Paris itinerary is a great place to start.

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Unique Experiences to Book in Paris

Where to stay in Paris for All Budgets

Why Three Days in Paris Is the Perfect Amount of Time

Three days might not sound like much, but it’s actually enough to get a feel for Paris, especially if it’s your first time here. You can see the main attractions, wander through neighborhoods like Le Marais and the Latin Quarter, enjoy hot chocolate at a café, and walk along the Seine without feeling rushed.

I personally think three to four days is the sweet spot for first-time visitors because it gives you:

• Enough time to see the major sites
• Flexibility for long lunches or spontaneous stops
• Time to enjoy Paris both during the day and at night
• Freedom to choose what interests you most — whether that’s museums, history, fashion, pastries, or views

Plus, Paris has a great metro system. It’s quick, easy to use, and a good way to see the city like a local. You’ll be surprised how much you can see in three days if you plan a bit and wear comfortable shoes.

If you’ve never been to Paris, get ready to fall in love with the charming neighborhoods, the café culture, the romantic bridges, and the beautiful architecture. If you’re coming back, this three days Paris itinerary will help you see the classics again and still find something new.

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Three Days Paris Itinerary: Day1 — Iconic Paris: Louvre , Île De La Cité & Seine Sunset

On your first day in Paris, I recommend starting with the most iconic sights. These are the places that really show you the history and beauty of the city from the very beginning. You’ll visit the Louvre, stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, explore Île de la Cité, and finish your day with a cruise on the Seine. It’s a packed day, but it’s one of the best ways to experience Paris if you only have three days.

Visit the Louvre Museum in the Morning

Arrive Early & Book Ahead

I recommend starting your day at the Louvre Museum as early as possible. Tickets sell out fast, so I recommend booking them online in advance. If you don’t manage to get tickets ahead of time, you can still buy them on the same day, but be prepared to wait in line for hours. The Louvre is the largest museum in the world.

Even if you’re not usually a fan of museums, this one is special. You get to walk through over 800 years of history, which is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

What to See Inside

The Louvre is massive, so I suggest picking just two or three sections to explore. Trying to see everything in one day is impossible. 

Some of the highlights include:

• Mona Lisa
• Venus de Milo
• Napoleon III Apartments
• The glass pyramid outside is also a must-see. It is one of the most iconic sights in Paris.

You could easily spend a whole day in the museum, but if you limit what you want to see, you’ll enjoy it more and not feel overwhelmed.

Skip-the-Line Tips & Pass Holders

If you want to avoid wasting time in long lines, I recommend buying skip-the-line tickets before your visit. You’ll thank yourself when you walk past the crowds waiting outside. 

If you have the Paris Pass, your entry is included, but you MUST book a time slot in advance through the official Paris Museum Pass website. The pass covers the admission cost, but you are still required to reserve a specific date and time to enter, as certain periods can have limited availability. 

Self-Guided vs. Guided

If you want to learn more about the museum’s history, you can join a guided tour, but honestly, exploring on your own is just as good. I always use Google Maps to find my way between the wings. It’s really easy to get lost inside.

Don’t Miss the Pyramid

After your visit, spend a few minutes outside by the glass pyramid. It’s one of the most iconic sights in Paris, and the morning light makes it a perfect spot for photos or a quick break before heading to your next stop.

On your first day, you’ll get to see the main landmarks in central Paris. You’ll visit the Louvre Museum, stroll through the Tuileries Garden, check out île de la Cité, and finish your day by the Seine.

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Stroll through Jardin des Tuileries & Place de la Concorde

As soon as you leave the Louvre, head into Jardin des Tuileries. This is one of my favorite gardens in Paris. It’s peaceful with lots of fountains, and the perfect place if you want to take a break and relax for a while. I really enjoy watching the locals here, sitting by the round fountains, reading or catching up with friends.

The garden takes you straight to Place de la Concorde, a famous square with a lot of history from the French Revolution. From here, you get a great view of the Champs-Élysées. If the weather is good, this whole area is really beautiful for a walk.

This short walk is actually one of my favorite parts of a three days Paris itinerary. 

Have Lunch and Explore Latin Quarter

From Île de la Cité, walk cross Pont Saint-Michel and you’ll walk into the Latin Quarter. This is one of the best places if you want a lively atmosphere in Paris. It’s full of cafés, bookstores, and charming little streets that are perfect for wandering.

I love having lunch here because there are so many options to choose from.

• You can try a cozy French bistro (Bistro des Poèmes or Le Bistrot Du Perigord)
• Crêperies (Les Crêpes de Louis-Marie)
• Cafe or patisserie (Loulou, A. Lacroix Pâtissier, La Petite, La Maison d’Isabelle)
• or just relax at a spot with outdoor seating and watch the world go by.

The Latin Quarter has a really fun vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can just wander around with no plan and still have an amazing time. If it’s your first time in Paris, you’ll quickly see why students, locals, and travelers all love it here.

Visit île de la Cité: Sainte-Chapelle & Notre-Dame Cathedral

From Place de la Concorde, you can walk or take a short metro ride to Île de la Cité. This small island is the heart of medieval Paris and is packed with history. Here you’ll find two of the most famous landmarks in the city.

Sainte-Chapelle

If you love architecture or design, Sainte-Chapelle is one of the most beautiful places and a must-see. The stained-glass windows are stunning. When the sun shines through, the whole chapel lights up with color. I was absolutely amazed by how detailed and delicate the artwork is.

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Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is finally open again after being closed for over five years because of the 2019 fire. Stepping inside feels special and a bit surreal. The stained glass windows fill the space with a soft, colorful light, and the high vaulted ceilings are truly impressive. Even if you’ve seen photos before, visiting in person makes you realize just how much work and care went into bringing this famous landmark back to life.

You can visit the main cathedral for free, but I recommend booking a time slot online to skip the long lines. If you want to climb the towers or visit the treasury, you’ll need a separate ticket for those.

Even if you don’t go inside, make sure to walk around the outside. The detailed façade is stunning, the views along the Seine are beautiful, and the lively vibe of Île de la Cité makes this one of the best spots to visit during your three day Paris itinerary

Take a Seine River Cruise at Sunset

End your first day with a Seine River cruise — and trust me, sunset is the perfect time. Watching the city light up as you glide along the river is one of the highlights of any Three days Paris itinerary.

Along the way, you’ll see the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame, many romantic bridges, and beautiful views of central Paris.

There are several cruise options:

• Simple sightseeing cruise
• Cruises with Champagne tasting
• Dinner cruises
• Live-music cruises

Some cruises offer wine tasting or dinner, while others are simple sightseeing rides. Choose whichever style fits your trip. Even a basic cruise is such a great way to see the city from a different angle, especially after a long day on your feet.

After the cruise, you can grab dinner somewhere nearby or walk along the river. The atmosphere at night is relaxed, romantic, and exactly what you imagine Paris to be.

Have Dinner at Le Train Bleu

If you want a memorable dinner after your Seine cruise, I recommend Le Train Bleu, which is inside Gare de Lyon. From the outside, it just looks like a regular train station, but once you go upstairs and walk into the restaurant, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The ceilings are covered in murals, there are beautiful chandeliers, and the whole place has this grand Belle Époque vibe that you would never expect to find in a train station.

The atmosphere here is reason enough to visit. The dining room feels fancy but still relaxed, and you can really take your time enjoying classic French food. There’s so much detail in the décor that you’ll find yourself looking around the whole time. If you want a special dinner for your first night in Paris, this is the best way to end your day.

Three Days Paris Itinerary: Day 2 — Art, Architecture & The Best Paris Views

On your second morning in Paris, you will discover art, beautiful architecture, and some of the best views in the city. If day one was focused on history and famous landmarks, day two is your chance to slow down and enjoy the artistic side of Paris.

You will see Impressionist paintings, elegant opera houses, and rooftops with amazing views. This is one of my favorite days in this three days Paris itinerary because it combines culture and fun, and the pace feels just right.

Discover Musée d’Orsay in the Morning

I personally love starting Day 2 at Musée d’Orsay. Housed in a former train station, this museum has one of the most beautiful interiors in Paris. Even if you’re not a huge art person, this museum is easier to navigate than the Louvre, and you’ll probably recognize more pieces than you expect.

Here you’ll find:

• Van Gogh’s famous self-portrait
• Monet and the Impressionists
• Degas’ ballerinas
• Renoir’s soft, dreamy colors

The building itself is stunning. It has high arched windows, an open central hall, and a beautiful clock that looks over the River Seine. This is one of those places where you do not just look at the art. You really feel the atmosphere here.

Tips:

• Go early to avoid crowds.
• Buy skip-the-line or Paris Museum Pass tickets.
• Give yourself at least 1.5–2 hours.

If you have extra time or if you love Monet, I recommend walking across the Tuileries Garden after your visit. You can stop at Musée de l’Orangerie, where you will find Monet’s giant Water Lilies. The room was made just for these paintings. When you walk in, it feels calm and peaceful, like a break from the busy city.

Explore Le Marais: Lunch, Boutique Shopping & Place des Vosges

Next, head to Le Marais. You can get there by metro or about a 40 minute walk if you want to see more of the city. Le Marais is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Paris. The narrow streets are full of cafés, bakeries, and small shops. It’s a great place to stop for lunch and explore.

You have lunch here too as there are so many endless options:

• Cozy cafés such as Café du Marais, 
• Trendy brunch spot like the very popular and instagrammable La Favorite Saint-Paul
• Falafel shops on Rue des Rosiers (L’As du Fallafel)
• Beautiful little Pâtisseries (Aux Merveilleux de Fred, 

Le Marais has some of the best pâtisseries in Paris. If you see a pastry shop with a line, it’s probably worth trying. I like to walk around here without a set plan. That’s why I always include Le Marais in my three days Paris itinerary.

Place des Vosges

While you’re in Le Marais, I recommend visiting Place des Vosges. It’s the oldest square in Paris and is surrounded by red-brick buildings. Even when it’s busy, it feels calm. On sunny days, you’ll see people sitting on the grass, reading or having a picnic. It’s a nice spot to relax and enjoy the city.

Musée Carnavalet

If you like history or just want a quick museum visit, I suggest stopping by Musée Carnavalet. It covers the history of Paris from medieval times to the French Revolution, and it’s free to enter. The rooms are nicely decorated, and the courtyard garden is quiet, even though it’s right in the city center.

Visit Palais Garnier: The Most Beautiful Building in Paris

Palais Garnier is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris. You have to visit it. Once you step inside, you will see why it is such a favorite for so many people.

The building is grand and elegant, with marble staircases, gold-trimmed balconies, crystal chandeliers, and painted ceilings. Every corner is full of beautiful details.

This is the opera house that inspired The Phantom of the Opera. When you walk inside, it feels like stepping into a movie set from the 1800s. You can explore at your own pace with a self-guided ticket. I recommend visiting earlier in the afternoon, before the evening crowds arrive. Palais Garnier is incredibly photogenic, and you will probably spend more time here than you expect. 

They also host operas and ballets. If you have time, I suggest buying a ticket for a show. This way, you can see the building without the crowds after most people leave. This is definitely one of the most visually stunning stops on your three days Paris itinerary.

Go to Galeries Lafayette Rooftop: One of the Best Free Views in Paris

Galeries Lafayette is right behind Palais Garnier. It’s a famous department store and I think it’s worth visiting, even if you don’t want to shop. The main atrium has a huge stained-glass dome. It’s so beautiful (especially during the holiday season), you’ll want to take lots of photos. But the real highlight is the rooftop terrace, and I think it’s one of the best free views in Paris.

From here, you can see the Eiffel Tower, the rooftops of central Paris, the dome of Palais Garnier, and you get wide views of the city all the way to Sacré-Cœur.

I love coming here for photos because the light is always good. The terrace is spacious and open, and it’s completely free. That’s rare for such a beautiful viewpoint in Paris.

This is one of those moments when I stop and think, wow, I’m really in Paris. It’s a special place and it’s easy to add to your three days Paris itinerary.

Walk to Arc de Triomphe for Sunset Views & Champs-Élysées

End your second day by going up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. If you only have time for one viewpoint in Paris, I recommend this one. The views over the city are amazing, especially at sunset.

From the top, you can see the Eiffel Tower glowing in the distance, the elegant streets spreading out from the arch, beautiful Haussmann-style buildings, and the River Seine.

This is where you get the classic Paris postcard view, especially if the sky turns pink or golden. Since this is one of the top attractions, I recommend booking your tickets online before you go, because the lines can get long around sunset.

After your visit, you can walk down the Champs-Élysées, have dinner, or stop for dessert. Even though this area is touristy, it is worth walking at least once.

If you still have energy after dinner, you can go back to the Eiffel Tower to watch it sparkle on the hour. Watching it light up is always special.

Three Days Paris Itinerary: Day 3 — Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Rodin Museum & Unique Experiences

On your third day in Paris, you’ll get to experience a bit of everything. I recommend starting early, with a classic half-day trip to the Palace of Versailles in the morning. After that, head back to Paris and check out some of my favorite spots: the Eiffel Tower, a walk along the Seine, the Rodin Museum, and Montmartre.

If you still have energy in the evening, you can even catch a show at the Moulin Rouge. It’s a packed day, but it’s the perfect way to wrap up your three days Paris itinerary.

Visit Palace of Versailles in the Morning for Half a Day)

Begin your last day with a half-day trip to Versailles. In my opinion, it’s one of the most impressive royal palaces in Europe. Getting there is easy, just take the RER C train, and from the station it’s a short walk to the palace. I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time and arriving early, especially if you visit in spring or summer.  

When you visit the palace, make sure you don’t miss these highlights:

• The Hall of Mirrors
• The King’s Apartments
• The Queen’s Apartments
• You’ll notice beautiful gold details everywhere you look.

The palace itself is stunning, but the gardens are even more impressive. If the weather is nice, I suggest taking some time to wander the paths or relax by the fountains. You don’t need more than half a day to see the main highlights without feeling rushed. After that, you can head back to Paris around lunchtime.

Head to the Eiffel Tower

After you return to Paris, make your way to the Eiffel Tower. I recommend visiting in the early afternoon, especially if you’re coming from Versailles, because the biggest crowds are usually gone by then. If you want to go up the tower, it’s best to buy your tickets ahead of time.

The Eiffel Tower looks huge when you stand right next to it, and the views from the second floor or the top are amazing. After you visit, take some time to walk around the area. The gardens nearby are perfect for photos or just relaxing for a bit before you move on.

Tips for your visit:

• Buy your Eiffel tower tickets in advance
• Arrive early for your reserved time slot
• The second floor has great views if you don’t want to go all the way up
• Visit again at night if you want to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle

Walk Along the Seine and visit Rodin Museum

After your Eiffel Tower visit, take a leisurely stroll along the River Seine. This is one of the most relaxing parts of the day. You’ll pass bridges, quiet viewpoints, and cafés along the water. It’s a nice way to enjoy Paris before heading to your next stop.

Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum is about a 20-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. In my opinion, it’s one of the most peaceful museums in Paris. The sculpture garden is beautiful, and you can see famous works like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell here.

The museum is quiet and open-air, and it feels completely different from the big, crowded museums in Paris. If you visit on a sunny day, it’s the perfect spot to relax and take a break during your three days in Paris.

Go to Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur in the Late Afternoon and for Sunset

Next, go to Montmartre. This is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris. It feels like a small village, with narrow streets, cozy cafés, and artists selling their paintings outside. Montmartre looks beautiful at any time, but I think it’s especially nice in the late afternoon or early evening.

Wander the Streets

Montmartre is best explored without a plan. Stop by a local patisserie, check out the small boutiques, and wander around the main square where artists sell and draw. Make sure to walk along the side streets too, because you’ll find some amazing views of the city.

Walk up to Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Walk up to Sacré-Cœur, which is at the highest point in Paris. The panoramic views from the steps are incredible. You can see almost the whole city from here. The basilica is peaceful inside, and it’s free to go in.

Stop by Place du Tertre

Nearby is Place du Tertre, where artists paint portraits and show their work. This area is always lively, and it’s a great spot if you like to people-watch.

Montmartre is one of my favorite places in Paris. It feels completely different from the rest of the city, so I always recommend including it in your itinerary.

See the Moulin Rouge Cabaret

To end your day, visit the Moulin Rouge. This is one of the most famous cabarets in the world. The evening shows are full of energy, with music, costumes, and performances. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth walking by the famous red windmill at night.

If you want to see a show, make sure to book your tickets early because they often sell out.

Alternative Activities and Top Attractions

If you want to try something different from any of my suggestions, here are a few alternative activities and top attractions you can add to your Paris itinerary. You can mix and match these based on what you like, how you feel, or even the weather.

1. Explore Père Lachaise Cemetery

This might sound a bit unusual, but Père Lachaise Cemetery is actually one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Paris. It’s full of history, and you can find the graves of famous writers, musicians, and artists here. Walking through the cemetery feels more like strolling through a quiet garden.

2. Take a Food Tour or Wine Tasting

A food tour in Paris is always a great idea. You get to try pastries, cheese, chocolate, charcuterie, and other local specialties. If you love wine, I recommend booking a French wine tasting. It’s a fun way to experience French culture and learn something new.

3. Discover the Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs are one of the most fascinating and a bit eerie places you can visit in Paris. They are deep underground, and the tunnels are filled with the bones of millions of Parisians. If you want to see a different side of the city’s history, this is the place to go. The walk through the tunnels is a bit long and the passages are narrow, but the experience is unforgettable.

4. Visit the Centre Pompidou

If you’re into modern art, you should definitely visit the Centre Pompidou. The building is really unique and you get some great views of Paris from the top floor.

5. Experience Disneyland Paris

If you’re visiting Paris with kids or just want to do something fun and lighthearted, Disneyland Paris is a great option. It’s easy to reach by train and makes for a memorable day.

Three Days Paris Itinerary: Final Thoughts

If you only have a few days, a long weekend in the French Capital is enough to get a taste of this amazing city. The metro lines are super easy to use and connect you to all the main attractions, so you won’t waste any time.

You can spend your days visiting famous landmarks, trying delicious French food, or just getting lost in the pretty neighborhoods. Paris always has something new to offer, and after three days here, I promise you’ll want to come back for more.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Paris

Paris is one of the most magical cities in the world—but like any major destination, it helps to arrive with the right mindset and some preparation. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning again, these tips will help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Make sure to set realistic expectations

Paris is dreamy, yes—but it’s also a real city. That means traffic, noise, crowds, and heat with tourists, especially during the summer. Don’t let that take away from the experience—just be prepared. Bring comfy walking shoes, pack a water bottle, and know that sometimes the Eiffel Tower just might not sparkle exactly on cue. That’s okay. The magic is still there.

Don’t try to do everything

Trying to cram every museum, landmark, and photo op into four days is a fast track to burnout. Prioritize a few must-sees each day, and leave time to simply wander, relax at a café, or sit by the Seine with a baguette in hand. 

Book major attractions in advance

We all know that Paris is very busy, especially in peak seasons. Which means, booking in advance is not optional, but essential. Some spots sell out months ahead, especially timed entries.

I really recommend getting tickets ahead of time for the below to avoid them being sold out or having to wait in a long line:

• The Orangerie Museum
• Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip the Line
• The Louvre Museum
• Musee d’Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe
• Sainte Chapelle
• Notre Dame Cathedral Tour
• Top of the Eiffel Tower
• The Picasso Museum

Travel tip: I started looking for Louvre tickets three months ahead of my trip, and some time slots were already gone. Plan early!

If you are a museum lover, a great way to make the most of your visit is getting the Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 Days. It gives you skip-the-line access to over 60 museums and monuments in and around the city, including the Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, and Centre Pompidou. It’s especially useful if you’re planning to spend a few days Paris, since it fits perfectly with the highlights most visitors want to see.

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Paris is always a good idea—but depending on what kind of experience you’re after, some seasons might suit you better than others. There’s really no wrong time to go, but here’s a breakdown to help you decide the best time to plan your trip:

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Paris is truly magical. The city starts to bloom—cherry blossoms decorate the streets, gardens come to life, and the weather is mild and fresh. It’s a wonderful time to stroll through neighborhoods, picnic in parks, and sip coffee outside a café. This is one of the best times to visit if you want that romantic, postcard-perfect Paris vibe without the summer crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the high season and brings warm temperatures, longer days, and lots of energy. The city has many outdoor events, riverside pop-ups along the Seine, and people everywhere enjoying the sun. It’s also peak season, so popular spots like the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower will be busier. Since its busy, watch out for pickpockets, especially when in the metro station! If you don’t like the crowds and city heat then summer may not be the best time for you.

Fall (September to November)

Great time to visit! Fall in Paris is cozy and golden. The trees change color, the air is crisp, and the city feels a little calmer after summer. It’s a lovely time for museum-hopping, wine bars, and scenic walks through gardens like the Jardin des Tuileries. Early fall, especially September, is a sweet spot—fewer crowds but still great weather. The city becomes a great place to slow down and take it all in.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings a quieter, more local side of Paris. It gets chilly, but there’s something so charming about the city lit up for the holidays. Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and fewer tourists make this an underrated but beautiful season to visit. If you’re looking for fewer lines (except the holiday season) and a more relaxed vibe, this could be the best time for you.

How to get to Paris?

From the airport

If you’re flying into Paris, you’ll most likely arrive at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Both airports are well-connected to the city center.

From CDG, the easiest options are the RER B train, it will take around 35 minutes to central Paris for€13 or Uber 55–65€.

From Orly, you can take the Orlyval light rail and connect to the RER B, or hop in a taxi (around 35–45€).

If you’re arriving with lots of luggage or after a long flight, a taxi or Uber might be worth the splurge—especially if you’re heading straight to your hotel or apartment.

Getting to Paris by train

Paris is incredibly well connected by train. If you’re coming from cities like London, Brussels, or Amsterdam, you can book here the Eurostar or Thalys high-speed trains which are super convenient and drop you off right in the heart of the city at Gare du Nord or Gare de Lyon. Train travel in Europe is often faster and more relaxing than flying—plus, no airport hassle.

How to get around Paris?

Paris is a great place to explore on foot. You’ll find so many cute streets, hidden courtyards, and little surprises around every corner. That said, the city is huge, and your feet will feel it. Mix walking with public transportation (super efficient) or a short Uber when needed.

Walking

Paris is a very walkable city, and honestly, one of the best ways to take it all in is on foot. Each neighborhood (or arrondissement) has its own feel, and you’ll notice charming details you might miss otherwise—like hidden courtyards, small bakeries, or art tucked into the streets. Pack comfy shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of walking on your three days Paris itinerary!

Taking the metro

The Paris Metro is efficient, affordable, and easy to use once you get the hang of it. It can take you pretty much anywhere in the city.

Tickets can be bought individually, but it’s cheaper and easier to grab a carnet (a pack of 10) or use a Navigo Easy card.

Google Maps works well for metro directions, but I also like the Bonjour RATP app to help with routes and live updates.

Taking Uber or taxis

Uber works pretty well in Paris and is often more affordable than traditional taxis. It’s especially great late at night or when your feet are completely done for the day (which, trust me, happens fast in Paris!).

That said, be prepared for a little patience—sometimes it takes a while for a driver to accept your ride, and it’s not uncommon for your request to be canceled mid-wait, which can be frustrating if you’re in a rush. This happened to us a couple of times, especially early in the morning or during busier hours.

Travel tip: If you’re heading to the airport or need to be somewhere at a specific time, request your ride early to allow time for delays or cancellations (if any). We booked an Uber to the airport for an early morning flight and gave ourselves extra buffer time—definitely recommend doing the same!

Also worth noting: while taxis are always an option, they tend to cost more, and there is a chance of getting ripped off.  I would use Uber to be safe.

Is Paris safe to visit? What’s the story with pickpockets & scams?

Unfortunately, like many major European cities, pickpocketing and tourist scams are pretty common in Paris—especially near popular landmarks like the Musée du Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, and busy metro stations. Stay aware and don’t let your guard down just because you’re caught up in the beauty of it all.

A lot of these scams are well-rehearsed, and some even work in groups—while one person distracts you, another is already going through your bag or slipping your phone from your pocket.

Common scams to watch out for:

• The Petition Scam: Someone asks you to sign a petition (often pretending to be deaf or working for a charity). While you’re distracted, someone else may pickpocket you—or they’ll demand a “donation” after you sign.
• The Bracelet Trick: Someone grabs your wrist and quickly ties a friendship bracelet on it—then asks you to pay for it. Sometimes it’s just a distraction while someone else checks your bag or pockets.
• Dropped Ring Scam: A person pretends to find a gold ring on the ground and tries to convince you it’s real, offering it to you and asking for money in return.
• “Found” Wallet or Lost Item Scam: A stranger points out a wallet or item “you dropped,” making a scene—again, it’s often a distraction technique.
• Street Games or Performers: While not all are scams, many use crowds to create opportunities for pickpockets to get close unnoticed.

Being aware doesn’t mean being paranoid—just stay alert, trust your instincts, and enjoy the city without the stress. A crossbody bag, worn in front, with a zipper is a simple but powerful defense!

Language: Do I need to speak French?

While some Parisians, especially those in restaurants, hotels, museums, etc.. speak English, making an effort to speak French goes a long way. Even a simple bonjour, merci, or parlez-vous anglais? can completely change the interaction. It shows respect and helps break the stereotype that visitors expect locals to adjust to them. Also, everyone was very nice and polite; we didn’t get any negative attitude or unpleasant vibes. 

How many days do you need in Paris?

If you’re wondering how much time to spend in Paris, the honest answer is—as much as you can. The ideal time to truly experience the Parisian lifestyle is at least a week. That gives you enough time to explore beyond the big landmarks, linger at outdoor cafés, wander through quiet neighborhoods, and enjoy the slower moments that make Paris so magical.

That said, I know most travelers don’t always have a full week to spare—especially first time visitors trying to fit in other European cities. On average, people spend around three to four days in Paris, which is actually a great amount of time to hit the highlights while still getting a feel for the city’s charm. That’s exactly why I put together this three days Paris Itinerary—to help you experience the best of Paris in a short trip without feeling rushed.

In four days, you’ll be able to visit iconic spots like the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and Musee d’Orsay, catch a sunset at the Eiffel Tower, walk through Montmartre, and maybe even see a show at the Moulin Rouge.

You might not see everything, but with the right plan, you’ll see the best things and still have moments to pause, take it in, and fall in love with Paris—just like I did.

Need inspiration for your next trip? Check out some of my other posts:

• Madrid Hotels with Rooftop Pool: Guide to Best Stays
• New York Tips for First Timers: Your Epic NYC Guide
• Three Days Paris Itinerary: How to Spend Your Time
• 2 Day Itinerary Zermatt: How to Spend the Best Time
• Stunning Luxury Paris hotels with Eiffel Tower View
• Find the Best Cheap Paris Hotel with Eiffel Tower View
• Ultimate Rovaniemi Itinerary: Tips for the Best Trip
• Where to Stay in Lapland: Unique Igloos & Best Hotels
• Best NYC Christmas Bars: Your Ultimate Guide to 2025
• Best Christmas Markets in NYC: Your Epic 2025 Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Best Hotels in NYC for Christmas
• Best Restaurants in Santa Claus Village You’ll Love
• How to Plan the Best Santa Claus Village Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Rome: Ultimate Guide for First Time
• Montreux in Winter: Ultimate Guide to the Best Things
• One Day in Geneva Itinerary: How to Spend Your Time
• Lucerne in Winter Guide: How to Spend the Best Time
• How to Enjoy Christmas Markets in Lucerne Switzerland
• 10 Best Zurich Christmas Markets: Ultimate 2025 Guide
• Amazing Things to do in Ostuni: Puglia’s White City