3 Days in Paris Itinerary: The Perfect First-Timer’s Guide (2025)
Let me guess—you’ve been dreaming of Paris. Croissants, the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, strolling along the Seine with a baguette under your arm like you’re in a movie. Sound about right? Paris has that effect on people. But here’s the catch: you’ve only got three days. Yikes.
I’ve been there. The first time I visited Paris, I thought, “Three days? That’s not enough!” But trust me, it can be—if you plan smart. And that’s exactly what this guide is about. I’m going to walk you through a step-by-step Paris itinerary for 3 days that balances the big must-sees with some local gems. You’ll avoid the rookie mistakes (like spending two hours in line for the Eiffel Tower when you could be sipping wine in Montmartre) and still leave feeling like you got a real taste of the City of Lights.
Ready to squeeze the best of Paris into 72 hours? Let’s do this.
Day 1: Iconic Paris Landmarks
Morning: Eiffel Tower & Seine River Stroll
Let’s be real—you can’t come to Paris and skip the Eiffel Tower. Start early to beat the crowds. I recommend booking your tickets online in advance (seriously, thank me later). If you’re afraid of heights, no judgment, the view from the ground is still magical.
Once you’ve snapped your Eiffel selfies, wander down to the Seine. The bridges here are gorgeous—Pont Alexandre III is basically Paris on steroids.
Pro tip: Grab a coffee and croissant from a nearby boulangerie before you head over. You’ll feel 100% Parisian.
Afternoon: Louvre Museum & Tuileries Garden
The Louvre is massive—like, “could spend a week and still miss things” massive. For a 3-day trip, focus on the highlights: Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
Afterward, take a breather in the Tuileries Garden. It’s the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and maybe munch on a crepe.
Evening: Sunset at Montmartre
Head to Montmartre for dinner and sunset views. This neighborhood feels artsy and romantic in that effortlessly Parisian way. Climb up to Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best panoramic views of the city.
Ever wondered why every Paris trip photo looks so dreamy? It’s the light. Paris during golden hour is basically a free Instagram filter.
Day 2: Art, History & Neighborhood Vibes
Morning: Musée d’Orsay
Start your day with the Musée d’Orsay. IMO, it’s more digestible than the Louvre and packed with Impressionist masterpieces. Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir—it’s like a greatest hits album for art.
Afternoon: Notre-Dame & Île de la Cité
Walk over to Île de la Cité and see the legendary Notre-Dame Cathedral. While the inside is still under restoration, the exterior and surrounding area are worth exploring.
Grab a bite nearby—French onion soup or a baguette sandwich make perfect fuel.
Evening: Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is all about energy. Cafés spill out onto cobbled streets, jazz bars hum late into the night, and the food? Unreal. Try a cozy bistro here—you’ll find hearty French dishes at way better prices than near the tourist traps.
Ever wondered what it feels like to star in your own French film? Strolling through the Latin Quarter after dark is the answer.
Day 3: Hidden Gems & Relaxed Paris
Morning: Le Marais
Spend your last morning wandering through Le Marais. Think trendy boutiques, Jewish bakeries, and chic cafés. Stop for a falafel at L’As du Fallafel—yes, it’s famous for a reason.
Afternoon: Canal Saint-Martin
Want to see where Parisians actually hang out? Head to Canal Saint-Martin. This area feels laid-back and cool, perfect for grabbing a picnic and chilling by the water.
Evening: Dinner Cruise on the Seine
Wrap up your Paris trip with a Seine dinner cruise. You’ll glide past the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles, Notre-Dame lit up at night, and the Louvre glowing in the distance. It’s cheesy but in the best way.
If you don’t feel like splurging, a simple night stroll along the Seine with a bottle of French wine hits the same vibe.
Paris Travel Tips for First-Timers
Here’s the stuff no one tells you until it’s too late:
- Book museum tickets in advance. Otherwise, you’ll waste precious hours in line.
- Learn a few French phrases. A simple “Bonjour” goes a long way.
- Don’t overpack your itinerary. Paris is best enjoyed at a slower pace.
- Use the Metro. It’s cheap, fast, and the easiest way to get around.
- Watch for pickpockets. Especially near tourist hot spots. Keep your bag close.
Where to Stay in Paris (2025)
Picking the right neighborhood can make or break your trip. Here are some good options:
- Marais: Trendy, central, full of life.
- Latin Quarter: Budget-friendly and energetic.
- Saint-Germain: Chic and classy.
- Near the Eiffel Tower: Great for first-timers who want postcard views.
Affiliate tip: I always recommend checking Booking.com or Airbnb for deals. You can usually find boutique hotels with way more charm than big chains.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Paris
- Trying to “see it all.” Spoiler alert: you can’t. And if you try, you’ll just end up cranky.
- Eating only near tourist sites. Walk a few blocks away—you’ll pay half the price for twice the flavor.
- Skipping reservations. Paris restaurants fill up, especially for dinner.
- Wearing uncomfortable shoes. Paris = walking. Lots of it.
3-Day Paris Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre
Day 2: Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame, Latin Quarter
Day 3: Le Marais, Canal Saint-Martin, Seine Cruise
See? Totally doable.
Conclusion
Three days in Paris will fly by, but if you plan right, you’ll leave feeling like you experienced the best of it. You’ll see the iconic landmarks, savor the food, wander through charming neighborhoods, and still have a reason to come back. (Because trust me, you will come back.)
So pack comfy shoes, brush up on your “merci” and “s’il vous plaît,” and get ready for croissants, wine, and maybe a little romance.
Oh, and if you’re still looking for where to stay, check out the latest Paris hotel deals here —because finding the perfect base makes this itinerary even smoother.
Bon voyage!