Paris, the City of Light, is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, Paris is the perfect city to explore for a few days. In this guide, we’ll provide you with travel tips, routes, and must-see places to help you make the most of your 3 days in Paris.
Travel Tips in Paris
- Paris is a very walkable city, so bring comfortable shoes and enjoy exploring on foot.
- Public transportation in Paris is efficient and easy to use. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite Pass, which provides unlimited access to the metro, bus, and RER networks.
- Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions, especially during peak tourist season.
- Learn a few basic French phrases to make communicating with locals easier.
- Carry a refillable water bottle with you to stay hydrated while exploring.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the metro or major tourist attractions.
- Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially for dinner at popular restaurants.
- Keep some cash on hand, as some smaller businesses may not accept credit cards.
What to See in Paris: Must-See Places
Paris is filled with iconic landmarks, beautiful museums, and charming neighborhoods. Here are some of the must-see places to add to your itinerary:
- Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. You can take the elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.
- Louvre Museum: The Louvre is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums, home to thousands of works of art including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: This beautiful Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris. While it’s currently closed for renovations, you can still admire its exterior.
- Sainte-Chapelle: This stunning chapel is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, which date back to the 13th century.
- Champs-Élysées: This famous avenue is home to high-end shops, cafes, and theaters. Don’t miss the Arc de Triomphe at the western end of the avenue.
- Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a former train station, the Musée d’Orsay is known for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
- Montmartre: This charming neighborhood is known for its artists, cafes, and stunning views of the city from the top of the hill.
- Sacre-Coeur Basilica: This beautiful white basilica is located at the top of Montmartre and offers breathtaking views of the city below.
- Palace of Versailles: Located just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a must-see for history and architecture lovers. Don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors and the stunning gardens.
- Seine River: A cruise down the Seine River is a great way to see many of Paris’s landmarks from a unique perspective.
Routes in Paris
Paris is a sprawling city, but many of its major attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Here are some suggested routes to help you make the most of your time:
Route 1: Historic Paris
Start at the Notre-Dame Cathedral and admire its Gothic architecture before heading to Sainte-Chapelle to see its stunning stained glass windows. From there, take a stroll through the charming Île de la Cité neighborhood before crossing the Seine River to visit the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Route 2: Art and Culture
Begin at the Louvre Museum and spend several hours exploring its massive collection of art. From there, head to the nearby Musée d’Orsay to see more Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. End your day with a visit to the beautiful Palais Garnier opera house.
Route 3: Montmartre and Sacre-Coeur
Start atthe bottom of the hill in the trendy Pigalle neighborhood and make your way up to Montmartre. Explore the neighborhood’s charming streets and cafes before climbing the steps to the top of the hill to visit the beautiful Sacre-Coeur Basilica. End your day with dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Where to Sleep in Paris
Paris has no shortage of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are a few options:
- Le Marais: This trendy neighborhood is filled with boutique hotels and is a great choice for those looking for a central location.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Located on the Left Bank, this neighborhood is known for its literary history and charming cafes. It’s a great choice for those looking for a quieter, more residential area.
- Montmartre: This neighborhood is known for its bohemian vibe and stunning views of the city. It’s a great choice for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Hostels: Paris has many hostels that offer budget-friendly accommodations. Some popular options include Les Piaules in Belleville and Generator Paris in the 10th arrondissement.
- Airbnb: Renting an apartment or room through Airbnb can be a great way to experience Paris like a local. Just be sure to check the location and read reviews before booking.
Where to Eat in Paris
Paris is known for its world-class cuisine, from classic French dishes to international fare. Here are some restaurants and cafes to add to your list:
- L’As du Fallafel: This tiny falafel shop in the Marais neighborhood is known for its delicious, budget-friendly food.
- Ladurée: This famous bakery is known for its macarons and other sweet treats.
- Boulangerie Julien: Located in the Montmartre neighborhood, this bakery is known for its delicious bread and pastries.
- Chez L’Ami Jean: This Basque restaurant in the 7th arrondissement is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes.
- Le Comptoir du Relais: This cozy bistro in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a great spot for classic French dishes.
- Buvette Gastrothèque: This tiny wine bar in the Pigalle neighborhood serves delicious small plates and a wide selection of wines.
Free Tours in Paris
Exploring Paris on your own is great, but joining a guided tour can provide you with valuable insights and context. Here are some free tours to consider:
- New Europe Tours: This company offers free walking tours of Paris, including a classic city tour and a Montmartre tour.
- Sandeman’s New Europe: Another company that offers free walking tours of Paris, with options including a Parisian Revolution tour and a Latin Quarter tour.
- Paris Greeters: This nonprofit organization offers free tours led by locals who are passionate about their city. Tours can be customized based on your interests.
- Paris Free Walking Tours: This company offers several free walking tours of Paris, including a Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité tour and a Marais tour.
- Discover Walks: This company offers free walking tours of Paris, including a Paris Landmarks tour and a Paris Food tour. Tips are appreciated at the end of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Paris?
Paris is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season, but also offers the warmest weather and longest days. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) can be chilly, but also offers festive holiday markets and decorations.
How do I get from the airport to the city center?
Paris has two major airports: Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Both have several options for getting to the city center, including taxis, private transfers, and public transportation. The RER B train is the most cost-effective option and takes you directly to the city center.
What should I wear in Paris?
Paris is a stylish city, so it’s a good idea to bring clothes that are both comfortable and fashionable. Opt for classic pieces like tailored pants, a blazer, and comfortable walking shoes. Avoid wearing sneakers and athletic wear unless you’re planning on working out.
Paris is a city that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to food and wine. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to make the most of your 3 days in Paris. Don’t forget to visit the official tourism website of the city of Paris for more information: https://en.parisinfo.com/.
