2 Days in Paris: Best 2-Day Paris Itinerary & Tips!
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks & Parisian Nights
Morning: Eiffel Tower & Seine River Cruise
- Start Early at the Eiffel Tower: Beat the crowds by arriving early to ascend this iconic structure. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café with a view.
- Seine River Cruise: Post-Eiffel Tower, hop on a river cruise from the nearby docks. It’s a serene way to see many of Paris’s landmarks from a unique vantage point.
Afternoon: Louvre Museum & Lunch
- Louvre Exploration: Dive into art and history at the Louvre. Don’t miss the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- Lunch Break: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in the Palais-Royal gardens, a short walk from the Louvre.
Evening: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
- Montmartre Wanderings: Head to the artistic enclave of Montmartre. Explore its cobbled streets, visit the Place du Tertre, and see the artists at work.
- Sunset at Sacré-Cœur: Climb to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a breathtaking sunset view over Paris.
- Dinner in Montmartre: Finish your day with dinner at a traditional Montmartre bistro. Enjoy French classics like coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon.
Night: Moulin Rouge Show
- Cabaret Experience: If you’re feeling adventurous, book a late show at the Moulin Rouge for a quintessential Parisian cabaret experience.
Day 2: Culture, Cuisine, and Shopping
Morning: Notre-Dame Cathedral & Latin Quarter
- Notre-Dame Visit: Start with a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. While the interior may be undergoing restoration, the exterior still impresses.
- Stroll through the Latin Quarter: Wander through the Latin Quarter, explore its bookshops, and visit the Panthéon.
Afternoon: Le Marais District & Lunch
- Le Marais Exploration: Head to the historically rich Le Marais district. Visit the Place des Vosges, explore boutique shops, and perhaps the Picasso Museum.
- Lunch in Le Marais: Enjoy lunch at a café in Le Marais. Try something light like a quiche or salad to save room for pastries later.
Afternoon Snack: Pâtisserie Visit
- Sweet Treat: Visit a famous pâtisserie for a macaron or éclair. Pierre Hermé and Ladurée are excellent choices.
Evening: Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
- Champs-Élysées Stroll: Walk down the Champs-Élysées. Shop, people-watch, and take in the Parisian vibe.
- Arc de Triomphe: End your walk at the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for a stunning evening view of Paris.
- Dinner Near the Champs-Élysées: Choose one of the many restaurants near the Champs-Élysées for dinner. Opt for something upscale to celebrate your last night in Paris.
Night: Seine River Banks
- Leisurely Night Walk: Conclude your Parisian adventure with a leisurely walk along the Seine River banks. The city lights and serene atmosphere offer a perfect end to your trip.
Essential Tips for Your 2-Day Adventure in Paris
Ready to make the most of your Paris escapade? The following essential tips are your golden keys to navigating the city with ease, dining like a local, and embracing the rich culture of Paris:
Before You Go:
- Buy Tickets in Advance: For major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, purchase tickets online ahead of time to avoid long queues.
- Pack Light and Right: Paris is a city best explored on foot. Bring comfortable shoes and dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather.
Getting Around:
- Master the Metro: Paris’s Metro system is your best friend for getting around quickly and inexpensively. Consider buying a day pass for unlimited travel.
- Ride-sharing and Taxis: Apps like Uber work well in Paris if you need to get somewhere quickly or are traveling late at night.
Dining and Shopping:
- Reservations Recommended: For popular restaurants, making a reservation is often necessary, especially for dinner.
- Shop Tax-Free: If you’re a non-EU resident, take advantage of tax-free shopping on eligible purchases over €175 in one store, on the same day.
Cultural Etiquette:
- A Little French Goes a Long Way: Greeting shopkeepers and waiters in French (just a simple “Bonjour”) is considered polite and can make interactions smoother.
- Mind the Meal Times: Unlike some places, Parisians eat at specific times (lunch around 12-2 pm, dinner after 7 pm). Many restaurants may be closed outside these hours.
Safety and Convenience:
- Beware of Pickpockets: Like any major city, watch your belongings in crowded areas. Use a money belt or a crossbody bag for added security.
- Stay Connected: Consider buying a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected without incurring roaming charges.
Maximizing Your Experience:
- Early Bird Gets the Worm: Start your day early to enjoy attractions before the crowds gather.
- Leave Room for Spontaneity: While it’s great to have a plan, some of the best Parisian experiences come from unexpected discoveries. Allow time to explore without a schedule.
After Dark:
- Explore Paris at Night: Many of Paris’s landmarks are beautifully illuminated after dark. Don’t miss a nighttime stroll to see the city in a different light.
- Check for Night Events: Look for cultural events or shows happening during your stay. Paris has a vibrant nightlife scene, from opera to jazz clubs.