Paris, the City of Light, is a dreamlike fusion of art, history, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re admiring Gothic cathedrals, sipping espresso in Montmartre, or marveling at the Mona Lisa, this 3-day itinerary ensures you experience Paris at its finest—without feeling rushed.

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Day 1: Iconic Landmarks & Artistic Treasures

Breakfast with a View: Café de l’Homme

Kickstart your Paris adventure at Café de l’Homme, one of the most scenic breakfast spots in the city. Nestled in Trocadéro, this elegant café offers an unmatched view of the Eiffel Tower, making it the ideal place to soak in the Parisian atmosphere. The menu features buttery croissants, eggs Benedict, and artisanal French cheeses, all served with freshly squeezed orange juice or a smooth café au lait.

📍 Location: 17 Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75116 Paris
⏰ Hours: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Breakfast served until 11:30 AM)
💡 Tip: Book a terrace table in advance for the best Eiffel Tower view.

Stop 1: Eiffel Tower & Trocadéro Gardens

No visit to Paris is complete without standing beneath the Iron Lady herself. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was once considered a temporary structure but has since become Paris’ most iconic symbol. Standing 324 meters high, it offers three levels for exploration.To secure your entry and avoid long queues, book your tickets in advance.

• First floor: Features a glass floor, historical exhibits, and a chic restaurant.
• Second floor: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
• Summit: The highest point accessible to visitors, where you can see all of Paris stretching out below.

Begin at Trocadéro Gardens, a perfect photo spot with statues, fountains, and a magnificent perspective of the tower. Then, walk over to the tower itself. For a unique experience, take the stairs to the second floor instead of the elevator—it’s a rewarding climb with fewer crowds.

📍 Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:45 PM (Seasonal variations)
🚇 Metro: Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or Line 9 to Trocadéro
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
💡 Tip: Visit early morning or at night for fewer crowds.

Stop 2: Musée d’Orsay – A Journey Through Impressionism

A 15-minute scenic walk along the Seine brings you to Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station. Originally built for the 1900 World’s Fair, the museum’s ornate clock windows, grand central nave, and natural light-filled galleries make it an architectural masterpiece.

Inside, you’ll find the world’s most extensive Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collection, featuring masterpieces from Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas. The famous clock window on the fifth floor offers a picture-perfect view of Montmartre.Since the museum is one of the most visited in Paris, it’s best to purchase your ticket online in advance to skip long entry lines and ensure a smooth visit.

📍 Location: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris
⏰ Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
🚇 Metro: Line 12 to Solférino
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
💡 Tip: Use the museum’s app for an interactive self-guided tour.

Stop 3: Seine River Cruise – Paris from the Water

As the sun begins to set, experience Paris from the water on a Seine River cruise. Drifting past Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower, this one-hour cruise is one of the most romantic and breathtaking ways to see the city. The golden light reflecting on the water, the gentle breeze, and the sparkling cityscape make for an unforgettable evening.For a classic sightseeing experience purchase your ticket in advance to secure your spot.

📍 Departure Points: 7 Port de la Bourdonnais
⏰ Hours: Cruises run daily, sunset slots fill fast
🚇 Metro: Line 9 to Alma-Marceau
⏳ Time Needed: 1 hour
💡 Tip: Choose a sunset cruise for stunning golden-hour views.

Dinner at Le Jules Verne – Dining in the Sky

End your first day with a view like no other at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant perched 125 meters above Paris on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. The menu, designed by Chef Frédéric Anton, features elegant French cuisine with a modern twist—think lobster with black truffle, tender beef fillet, and exquisite soufflés. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a spectacular view of Paris at night, making this an unparalleled dining experience.

📍 Location: Eiffel Tower, 2nd Floor, 75007 Paris
⏰ Hours: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
🚇 Metro: Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim
💡 Tip: Reservations are essential—book in advance.

Day 2: History, Gothic Splendor & The Louvre

Breakfast at Holybelly 5 – A Local Favorite

Start your second day in Paris at Holybelly 5, a beloved breakfast spot in the 10th arrondissement. The buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup, crispy bacon, and fried eggs are a must-try, but if you prefer something savory, go for their shakshuka with sourdough bread. Their freshly brewed coffee and matcha lattes make the perfect accompaniment.

📍 Location: 5 Rue Lucien Sampaix, 75010 Paris
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
🚇 Metro: Line 4 to Château d’Eau
💡 Tip: Arrive early to avoid long waits—this place gets packed fast.

Stop 1: Notre-Dame Cathedral & Sainte-Chapelle – A Journey into Gothic Architecture

Take a 15-minute metro ride to Île de la Cité, one of the oldest parts of Paris, where two architectural masterpieces await.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Built between 1163 and 1345, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a prime example of French Gothic architecture. Its iconic twin towers, intricate rose windows, and flying buttresses have fascinated visitors for centuries. Though the devastating 2019 fire damaged parts of the interior, the cathedral remains a symbol of resilience, and restoration efforts continue. Walk along the banks of the Seine for a breathtaking view of its facade.

📍 Location: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM (Tower access requires a separate ticket)
🚇 Metro: Line 4 to Cité
⏳ Time Needed: 1 hour
💡 Tip: The square in front of the cathedral is a great spot for photos, and there are street artists sketching visitors.

Sainte-Chapelle – The Jewel of Gothic Architecture

Just a 5-minute walk from Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle is a hidden gem of medieval Paris. Built in 1248 by King Louis IX to house religious relics, this Rayonnant Gothic chapel is renowned for its dazzling stained-glass windows, which depict over 1,100 biblical scenes in rich colors. As sunlight streams through, the entire chapel glows in shades of blue, red, and gold, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.Due to high demand, Sainte-Chapelle tickets often sell out, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure your entry.

📍 Location: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🚇 Metro: Line 4 to Cité
⏳ Time Needed: 45 minutes – 1 hour
💡 Tip: Visit on a sunny day for the most stunning stained-glass light display.

Stop 2: Latin Quarter – A Stroll Through Paris’ Intellectual Heart

Cross over to the Left Bank and wander through the Latin Quarter, a district famous for its medieval streets, intellectual history, and lively cafés. Home to Sorbonne University, this area has been a hub of learning and debate since the 13th century. Stroll past bookshops, historic squares, and hidden courtyards, and make sure to stop at:

• Shakespeare and Company – A legendary English-language bookstore, once a gathering place for writers like Hemingway and Joyce.
• Place de la Contrescarpe – A charming, lesser-known square with classic Parisian café culture.

📍 Location: Quartier Latin, 75005 Paris
⏳ Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
🚇 Metro: Line 10 to Cluny-La Sorbonne
💡 Tip: Stop at a traditional Parisian café for an espresso and people-watching.

Lunch at Le Marché des Enfants Rouges – Paris’ Oldest Market

For a delicious, casual lunch, head to Le Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris, dating back to 1615. This vibrant food market offers a mix of cuisines, from Moroccan tagines and Lebanese mezze to fresh French crepes and gourmet cheeses.

📍 Location: 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
🚇 Metro: Line 11 to Arts et Métiers
💡 Tip: Find a seat at a communal table and try multiple dishes from different stalls.

Stop 3: The Louvre – Home to the World’s Greatest Art

The Louvre Museum is a must-visit for any art lover. Originally built as a medieval fortress in the 12th century, it became a royal palace before being transformed into a museum in 1793. Today, it houses over 35,000 works, including some of the most famous paintings and sculptures in history.To skip the lines, it’s best to book your Louvre tickets in advance.

Must-See Highlights:

• Mona Lisa – The world’s most famous painting, known for her enigmatic smile.
• Venus de Milo – An exquisite ancient Greek sculpture.
• Winged Victory of Samothrace – A stunning depiction of the goddess Nike.

📍 Location: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
🚇 Metro: Line 1 to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre
⏳ Time Needed: 3–4 hours
💡 Tip: Enter through the Carrousel du Louvre to avoid the long pyramid entrance line.

Dinner at Le Fumoir – Chic Dining Near the Louvre

Located right across from the Louvre’s main entrance, Le Fumoir is a sophisticated yet cozy brasserie known for its elegant French cuisine and excellent cocktails. The menu features seasonal dishes like duck breast with honey glaze, truffle risotto, and perfectly cooked sea bass, all served in a warm, dimly lit atmosphere with vintage decor.

📍 Location: 6 Rue de l’Amiral de Coligny, 75001 Paris
⏰ Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
🚇 Metro: Line 1 to Louvre-Rivoli
💡 Tip: Reserve a table in advance for a spot near the windows overlooking the Louvre’s historic courtyard.

Day 3: Montmartre & Bohemian Paris

Breakfast at La Maison Rose – A Picture-Perfect Start

Begin your morning at La Maison Rose, a quaint pink café that has become one of Montmartre’s most photographed spots. Open since 1905, this charming eatery was a popular hangout for artists and writers. Today, it serves classic French breakfasts featuring buttery croissants, fresh baguettes with homemade jam, and creamy café au lait.

📍 Location: 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🚇 Metro: Line 12 to Lamarck – Caulaincourt
💡 Tip: Arrive early for the best photos—this spot gets crowded quickly.

Stop 1: Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Paris from Above

After breakfast, take a short walk up the hill to Sacré-Cœur Basilica, one of Paris’ most stunning landmarks. Completed in 1914, this white-domed basilica sits at the highest point in the city, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Paris.

The basilica’s Byzantine-inspired architecture, intricate mosaics (including one of the largest in the world, Christ in Majesty), and peaceful interior make it a must-visit. Step inside to experience the ethereal atmosphere, where soft candlelight illuminates the golden mosaics.

For the best view, climb the 300 steps to the dome, where you’ll get one of the most breathtaking 360° views of the city.

📍 Location: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
⏰ Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Dome: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
🚇 Metro: Line 12 to Abbesses, then a short uphill walk
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
💡 Tip: The funicular railway near Place Saint-Pierre offers an easy way up the hill if you don’t want to climb the stairs.

Stop 2: Montmartre Walking Tour – Artistic History & Hidden Gems

Montmartre is best explored on foot, as its narrow, winding streets are filled with hidden gems, historic cafés, and artistic landmarks. Take a stroll through:

🎨 Place du Tertre – A bustling square where street artists paint portraits and caricatures. Once a gathering place for Picasso and Modigliani, this is the beating heart of Montmartre’s artistic soul.

🏛️ Bateau-Lavoir – Known as the birthplace of Cubism, this was where Picasso painted his famous work, Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.

🖼️ Dalí Paris Museum – A fascinating small museum showcasing Salvador Dalí’s surrealist works, sculptures, and sketches.

🍷 Le Consulat & Au Lapin Agile – Two historic cafés where Renoir, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec used to drink and debate.

📍 Location: Montmartre, 75018 Paris
⏳ Time Needed: 2 hours
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—Montmartre’s streets are steep and uneven.

Lunch at Hardware Société – A Montmartre Favorite

After wandering Montmartre, stop for lunch at Hardware Société, a chic Australian-inspired café known for its brunch-style dishes. Their lobster benedict, ricotta hotcakes, and truffle scrambled eggs are legendary.

📍 Location: 10 Rue Lamarck, 75018 Paris
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
💡 Tip: Their homemade chai latte is a must-try.

Stop 3: Le Marais – Trendy Boutiques & Hidden Courtyards

Next, take the metro to Le Marais, one of Paris’ most vibrant and stylish districts. This historic Jewish quarter turned fashionable hub is home to independent boutiques, medieval mansions, and a thriving food scene.

Stroll through:

🏛️ Place des Vosges – The oldest planned square in Paris, surrounded by beautiful 17th-century townhouses.

🛍️ Rue des Rosiers – A bustling shopping street known for its boutiques, Jewish bakeries, and falafel shops.

🖼️ Musée Picasso – A stunning museum dedicated to Pablo Picasso’s life and works, housed in a 17th-century mansion.

📍 Location: Le Marais, 75003 Paris
🚇 Metro: Line 1 to Saint-Paul
⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
💡 Tip: Stop by L’As du Fallafel for Paris’ best falafel sandwich.

Stop 4: Centre Pompidou – Modern Art & Rooftop Views

Before dinner, visit Centre Pompidou, a striking contemporary art museum with an inside-out design by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. Home to one of the world’s best modern art collections, it features works by Kandinsky, Duchamp, and Picasso.

The highlight is the rooftop terrace, offering an unparalleled sunset view over Paris.

📍 Location: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
⏰ Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
🚇 Metro: Line 11 to Rambuteau
⏳ Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
💡 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour over Paris.

Farewell Dinner at Chez Janou – Provençal Perfection

For your final dinner in Paris, head to Chez Janou, a lively bistro specializing in Provençal cuisine. Located near Place des Vosges, this charming spot serves dishes inspired by the South of France, such as ratatouille, grilled sea bass, and their famous chocolate mousse (served in a giant bowl to share).

📍 Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris
⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
🚇 Metro: Line 1 to Saint-Paul
💡 Tip: Reservations recommended—this spot is always packed!

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