Ultimate 3-Day Paris Itinerary: Epic Sights, Hidden Gems, and Travel Tips
A trip to the city of lights can be a daunting venture for the young traveler. So many clients of mine are only on their holiday for one week and allocate a small and exhilarating allotment of a 3 day Paris itinerary, often paired with the South of France, or wine country.
With so much to do in so little time, how can you get a true taste of the city while still seeing all of the important monuments and historical treasures the city has to offer. With Paris, there is a dire need to pick and choose what is important and what is not — it is easy to get trapped running from one tourist hangout to the next. But for so many people, myself included, this is not what traveling is all about.
Why waste time climbing the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Arc de Triomphe when you can pick and choose and spend your valuable hours getting more into the heart of Paris? Check out my 3-Day Paris Itinerary for what will get you feeling the most Parisian. All the locations for each day are easy to access from one another and are a great way for you to plan a rough sketch of your day!
Before you go:
This is a rough itinerary of what I did (or aspired to do) while I was on my amazing excursion to Paris.
Keep in mind many museums are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays so plan ahead when booking your trip!
3-Day Paris Itinerary: Where To Stay In Paris
For the Backpacker
For the young traveller, cheap and in a great location are key. The Montmartre area is a great place with a wonderful French vibe, great little restaurants, and a location far enough from the center to not be overpriced and loud. The rest of Paris is just a bus or metro ride away.
Hostels in Paris have changed since my travels in 2016, and the one I stayed in is now a boutique hotel. Since this blog has pivoted from 2016 as a budget travel blog to a luxury travel brand, we are going to skip the hotel recs for now and jump right into the good stuff.
For the Boho & Boutique Babe
For your 3 day Paris itinerary- you won’t want to say somewhere that is the dumps – you want to be at the height of Parisian chic! Here are some of our favourite places to stay for that bohemian Paris chic vibe you are craving!
Esprit Saint Germain
Esprit Saint Germain is a cozy boutique hotel on the Left Bank, nestled in the chic heart of Saint Germain des Prés. Completely renovated in 2021, it exudes an authentic Parisian charm. Designed to feel like a private residence, it’s exactly what you’d dream a French hotel to be—intimate, warm, and thoughtfully designed. With just 28 rooms, suites, and apartments, every detail is lovingly crafted. Guests are treated like friends, with personalized service and complimentary drinks by the fireplace in the living room.
Exclusive Perks when you Book through the Boho Traveller
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served via in-room dining
- Guests’ choice of red or white wine with a plate of assorted French cheeses, baguette and crackers, served at the moment of your clients’ choice, in the room or in the lounge.
- Departure gift of butter cookies from the famous bakery Poilâne
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Grand Powers Paris
Grand Powers is the essence of Parisian chic, with pastel-toned rooms, antique fireplaces, and charming wrought-iron balconies. At Café 52, you’ll find healthy, seasonal dishes with plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options. Relax with holistic treatments in the Thala Spa, and thanks to its prime spot in the Golden Triangle, you’re just a short stroll from the Champs-Elysées and Avenue Montaigne, where high-end boutiques like Prada, Armani, and Louis Vuitton await.
Exclusive Perks when you Book through the Boho Traveller
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in Hotel Restaurant or via Room Service
- $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- For stays of 3+ nights in Junior Suite or higher, guests will also receive a complimentary one-way private airport transfer for up to three guests (maximum)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
For the Luxury Traveller
Cheval Blanc Paris
Cheval Blanc Paris brings a fresh, contemporary twist to a historic art deco gem right in the heart of Paris. Nestled along the Seine, near the Louvre and Notre-Dame, this Maison beautifully captures the local spirit with stunning views through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. The vibe here is warm and welcoming, with attentive service and thoughtful touches at every turn. Each of the 72 rooms and suites offers a cozy, residential feel and breathtaking city views. Plus, you’ll find four diverse dining spots, from a fine-dining experience to a relaxed French brasserie.
Exclusive Perks when you Book through the Boho Traveller
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the hotel restaurant or via in-room dining
- Complimentary round-trip private airport / train station / hotel transfer
- Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Many of these perks and amenities are only available when you book your stay through a Virtuoso travel advisor.
Hotel de Crillon
Fresh from a full makeover, Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, perfectly captures the elegance and charm of Paris. The guest rooms blend 18th-century heritage with modern comforts, creating a warm, refined atmosphere. Dining options range from the hidden gem L’Ecrin to the unique Nonos & Comestibles by Paul Pairet, the cozy Jardin d’Hiver, and the popular Les Ambassadeurs. For some quiet relaxation, head to Sense, A Rosewood Spa, where East Asian and French-inspired treatments await.
Exclusive Perks when you Book through the Boho Traveller
- Upgrade on arrival, based on availability
- Daily Full Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in Hotel Restaurant or via Room Service
- $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Many of these perks and amenities are only available when you book your stay through a Virtuoso travel advisor.
Lutetia Paris
Lutetia Paris, an iconic landmark in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, stands as the only luxury Palace hotel on the Left Bank. Since 1910, it’s been the go-to spot for a true Parisian experience. With 184 rooms, including 47 suites offering stunning Eiffel Tower views, Lutetia Paris offers unique spaces to meet, unwind, and enjoy—from the legendary Bar Josephine and famous Brasserie Lutetia to the luxurious Akasha spa.
Exclusive Perks when you Book through the Boho Traveller
- Guaranteed upgrade at time of booking for Guest Rooms, subject to availability (up to Junior Suite, excluding the Eiffel Deluxe Room w/ Balcony and Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability for all other room types)
- Daily Buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
- $100 USD equivalent in local currency Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-in / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Many of these perks and amenities are only available when you book your stay through a Virtuoso travel advisor.
Are you looking for help planning your dream getaway? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options on the internet or just don’t have the time to get into planning your dream trip – I really encourage you to check out my travel planning services! You can download my “How We Work” guide here – or submit your inquiry here!
3-Day Paris Itinerary: When You Arrive In Paris
There are two main airports that service Paris, Charles du Galle being the larger of the two. The other airport is Orly, and this is typically more for domestic flights within the EU, but may facilitate some international flights as well. Both airports are incredibly busy, and if you do not have a transfer pre arranged, you could end up waiting for a taxi for around an hour, depending on the season.
We highly suggest booking your stay in Paris through a travel agent (like us *wink wink*) to ensure a smooth start to your trip. Not only can we prebook your arrival transfers, but we can arrange for a VIP arrivals an immigration service that allows you to skip the immigration line with an escort that greets you the second you step off the plane.
Paris is, needless to say, a big city and pretty spread out. Many of the main attractions are spread throughout the city, so to save yourself time and money, you will want to buy either a metro card or a stock of metro tickets. This will cost you around €30-€50, and it is best to do this as soon as you get to the city!
Check out these other Paris guides from The Boho Traveller!
5 Things to Know Before You Visit Paris
5 Things I Learned About Paris, In Paris
3-Day Paris Itinerary: Day 1
Moulin Rouge
The infamous burlesque strip club! Even if you don’t go see a show (that can get pricey!), seeing this sight- etched into history by the Baz Luhrmann film of the same name, is a must. Make sure to add this sight to your Parisian bucket list to see the windmill go round and send you back in time to the bohemian art movement draped in burlesque, diamonds, and the world’s wealthiest bachelors.
Book your tickets to the Moulin Rouge
Parc Monceau
People watch the French in a picturesque park filled with trees, streams, bridges, and quintessential Parisian Charm. Get out of the bustle and away from the tourists by adding this little rendezvous spot to your trip!
Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile
An arc of triumph is found in many major cities around the globe, including Barcelona, Florence, Rome, Mexico City, London, and, of course, Paris. Honoring all those who died for France during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, the arc stands 50 meters tall and grand, looking down the Champs Élysées.
Champs Élysées
The Parisian equivalent to Broadway, this street is lined with theatres and shopping- from fine diamonds at Cartier to your average tween hangout at Abercrombie & Fitch. Stroll away from the Arc toward the Ferris wheel on the Seine, and if you’re out in the evening during the most wonderful time of the year, don’t miss out on the Christmas Market!
Catacombs
Up for seeing more after all that walking? Take a trip to the catacombs! These underground tunnels contain over 6 million people and are an eerie collection specific to your Paris trip! Booking online and in advance to reserve your spot and skip the line is highly recommended for any 3 day Paris itinerary!
Book your catacombs tickets
3-Day Paris Itinerary: Day 2
Notre Dame
I have a thing about climbing churches, it’s one of my favorite things do to when I visit a new city. So, over all other vertically inclined monuments, I chose to climb Notre Dame. Here I felt I could meet Quasimodo, see the historic church, and get a panoramic of Paris that INCLUDED the Eiffel Tower. Tickets to climb the bell towers cannot be bought in advance, so my recommendation is to go here first thing in the morning. The security is very particular about how they let people in, so be prepared to stand in line.
Ticket prices range from €15-€10-FREE €€€!! (when you are an EU citizen or hold a valid student visa within the EU). After you have climbed the tower like Quasi and hung out with the gargoyles- scoot on into the church to see the flying buttresses and imagine yourself thrown back into medieval Paris seeking sanctuary. A truly architectural marvel, this is a sight you cannot miss while in Paris.
UPDATE: After the unfortunate fire that happened in Notre Dame in April of 2019, the church is unable to be visited at this time. We will share more information as updates become available. You can still view the church from the outside.
Tour de Jaques
All that remains of a Gothic Church is St. Jack of the Butchery (Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie). This beautiful tower was recently restored and stands tall for those brave enough to climb its 300 steps. Located not too far from Notre Dame, stopping by to see this beautiful architecture is sight enough and a thorough reminder of the grandeur of old Paris. Book tickets online in advance for a tour—the only way to go to the top!
The Louvre
I feel like saying to visit The Louvre is a bit redundant, as if you know anything about Europe, you know that this museum houses some of the most precious artwork in the world. From everything to statues, ancient Greek and Egyptian artifacts, medieval relics, the rooms of Napoleon, and the Mona Lisa- it is possible to get lost in the Louvre for hours!
Book online in advance to skip the line- it will be well worth it in the end.
Pro Tip: The Mona Lisa is located in the Denon section- get her out of the way, then explore the other amazing artwork the Louvre has to offer!
Book your tickets to The Louvre
Pont des Arts-No More
What used to be the love lock bridge, Pont des Arts, was renovated sans locks in 2015 due to harm to the bridge under the crippling weight of the locks- but lovers fear not! On the Passerelle Léopold-Sedar-Senghor, lovers have fought back by creating a new love lock bridge, which is slowly accumulating love from all around the world. Purchase your love lock, write your names down, and throw the keys in the water so you’re sure to stay together forever!
Lunch at the Eiffel Tower
Why not pick up a baguette, some wine, and delicious brie and plop down on the grass next to the quintessential Parisian Icon—the Tour de Eiffel? Romantic, cheap, and a great way to people-watch, you can’t go wrong with a picnic in Paris!
If you are looking for a more high end experience for your 3 day Paris Itinerary, a la Emily in Paris, why not book a three course dinner with wine tasting at the Eiffel Tower – incredible for a special occasion or just an evening that will sparkle and wow you.
Book Dinner at Madame Brasserie
Book Tickets for Standard Eiffel Tower Entrance
Museé Rodin
If you haven’t seen enough in this long day- visit another stunning museum. The Museé Rodin houses The Thinker and much more, and it is an amazing museum to tinker around for a few hours in! Again, make sure to book those tickets online for an easier experience!
Sacre Coeur at Sunset
For a beautiful panoramic shot of Paris, head into the Montmartre section and walk up to Sacre Coeur at sunset for a beautiful way to end the evening before you head to dinner.
3-Day Paris Itinerary: Day 3
Sacre Coeur
Where you watched the sun set on Paris, now head back up those steps and see the inside of this beauty! This will put you in the Montmartre region, where once you are away from the church, you will have a genuine Parisian feel.
Le mur des t’aime (I Love You: The Wall)
Lovers come together in Paris, and at the I Love You: The Wall is no exception. 612 tiles of enameled lava unite like glittering stars sprinkled across the evening sky with “I Love You: scripted in 250 languages. Snap a picture of a kiss, or throw up “I Love You” in sign language to show the world all you need is love.
Parc de Buttes Chamont
While we are on the romantic path, a walk-in Parc de Buttes Chamont will send you into a fairytale. Parisians come here to think, and you should too —with its bridges and ponds, the park is a beautiful place to escape from the hustle and bustle and wander winding paths.
Pére Lachaise Cemetiére
It may seem a bit odd to visit a cemetery on a vacation- but this is no ordinary cemetery. Now home to some of the most important people to have ever lived, Chopin, Moliére, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, various saints, and important Parisian families, this place will give you the spooks as you come the closest you are able to these historic people. For a moment you can pay tribute to your favorite artists in the largest cemetery in Paris, stretching across 110 acres.
Flea Markets/Boutique Street
For a truly Parisian feel, head over to a flea market or boutique street filled with uniquely Parisian shops to get your final fill of Paris. Check out Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards or the flea market Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, outside of the 18th arrondissement. Here, you will find gems, antiques, and junk, along with a defined experience that will leave you wanting more!
Book an antique and vintage shopping tour in Paris
UNFORTUNATELY, AS RABBIE BURNS ONCE WROTE, EVEN THE BEST-LAID PLANS OF MICE AND MEN OFTEN GO AWRY. THAT IS WHY WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TAKING OUT TRAVEL INSURANCE TO COVER ALL EVENTUALITIES. OUR PARTNER, TRAVEL INSURED, IS OUR PREFERRED VENDOR FOR OUR CLIENT AND PERSONAL TRAVELS.
