Day 1: Iconic Paris
Morning:
Start your 72 hours in Paris with an early visit to the Arc de Triomphe, a monumental tribute commissioned by Napoleon. Head to the top for panoramic views to get you excited for the day ahead. From there, stroll down the famous Champs-Elysée, past luxury boutiques and cozy cafés, until you reach Place de la Concorde. Known for Marie Antoinette’s beheading, this historic square offers a glimpse into France’s revolutionary past and its masterful architecture. For a touch of opulence, pop into the nearby Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, and grab a pastry from Butterfly Patisserie, a perfect pick-me-up. If you’re in the area later, the hotel’s Bar Les Ambassadeurs is ideal for an evening drink.Afternoon:
Next, cross the Pont Alexandre III, one of Paris' most ornate bridges, then make your way to Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, for a picture-perfect view of the Seine River and surrounding landmarks. Wrap up your morning with a visit to the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, which reopened in December 2024 after a five-year restoration.Evening:
End your day with a Seine River dinner cruise. As the sun sets and the city lights begin to glow, you’ll glide past some of Paris’ most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, sparkling with lights from top to bottom. It’s a magical way to relax and reflect on a perfect Parisian day.Day 2: Art & Romance
Morning:
Begin your day at the Louvre Museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Arriving early allows you to explore its vast galleries without the heavy crowds. After an enriching visit, treat yourself to some of the famous hot chocolate at Angelina Paris Musée du Louvre. Once you're recharged, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Jardin des Tuileries, a grand garden with manicured pathways and fountains, perfect for a peaceful breakAfternoon:
Spend the afternoon in Montmartre, a charming, artistic neighborhood famous for its bohemian atmosphere and hilltop views of Paris. Start at Sacré-Cœur Basilica and go to the top for unparalleled views of the city. Afterward, wander through the picturesque streets, like Place du Tertre, where local artists still display and sell their works. History buffs will love the Moulin de la Galette, a windmill once frequented by artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. Be sure to grab lunch at one of the quirky cafés tucked away in the winding streets. If you can't decide where to go, consider a food tour to sample the neighborhood’s best bites while learning about its rich history.Evening:
Wrap up your Montmartre day with dinner in nearby Pigalle, a lively neighborhood that blends old-school charm with a modern, creative edge. Book a table at Buvette, a beloved bistrot known for its cozy ambiance, shareable small plates, and excellent natural wines. The vibe is intimate and effortlessly cool—perfect for winding down without feeling too formal.After dinner, wander down Rue Frochot, a quiet little street that hides some of the city’s best cocktail spots. End the night with a drink at Lulu White Drinking Club or Le Sans Souci, a neighborhood favorite with a buzzy local crowd.Day 3: Parisian Bliss
Morning:
Begin your final day in Paris with a stroll through Le Marais, one of the city’s best neighborhoods for boutique shopping and stylish finds. Wander along Rue des Francs-Bourgeois and Rue Vieille du Temple, popping into concept stores, vintage shops, and chic Parisian brands. Fuel up with a coffee and croissant from a local café and soak in the lively energy of this fashionable district.Afternoon:
Stroll the elegant streets toward Saint-Germain-des-Prés, known for its historic cafés, bookshops, and upscale restaurants. It’s where you’ll find famed literary cafés like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots. Pop in for an espresso or glass of wine!Evening:
For a romantic dinner, book a table at Le Procope, one of Paris’ oldest restaurants, offering traditional French dishes in a charming, historic setting in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Afterward, take a nighttime walk along the Seine, with views in the distance of the sparkling Eiffel Tower, to cap off your perfect Paris day.Other ideas
If you've already seen the classic sights or want a different experience, here are some fantastic alternatives:- Versailles Day Trip Take a short train ride to the Palace of Versailles. Explore the Hall of Mirrors, grand gardens, and the Trianon Palaces. Art lovers can also enjoy the palace's impressive art collection.
- Latin Quarter Visit one of Paris' most vibrant and historic neighborhoods. Don't miss a stop at Shakespeare and Co, the iconic bookstore, or a visit to the Pantheon where famous figures like Voltaire and Victor Hugo are laid to res.
- Disneyland Paris For the young and young at heart, head to Disneyland Paris. With two parks—Disneyland Park for fairytales and Walt Disney Studios Park for movie magic—it’s a perfect family escape just outside the city.
- French Cooking Class Learn to cook classic French dishes, from croissants to coq au vin. Many classes include a market tour to pick fresh ingredients before cooking.
- Catacombs of Paris Explore the eerie Catacombs, where millions of Parisians' bones rest beneath the city. It’s a unique and fascinating look at a darker side of Paris.
- Musée d'Orsay Housed in a former train station, Musée d'Orsay boasts an incredible collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The museum’s architecture is as impressive as the art itself.
- Musée Rodin Visit the Musée Rodin to see iconic sculptures like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. The beautiful garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
