When I think about Paris, I'm immediately transported to my happy place. Sitting in a beautiful restaurant surrounded by traditional Parisian architecture and sipping on a glass of wine whilst watching the flow of people taking in the sights around me. There's just something about Paris that lights me up: I love it. It's currently my favourite city in the world (I say currently as I haven't travelled to them all yet and I'm aware that there might be somewhere else that will one day be top of my list). So it felt only right to put together a weekend guide, or a three night /four day guide for your own upcoming trip to Paris.
Day 1 / Travel Day
If you're heading to Paris from somewhere close by, such as England or bordering countries in Europe, your journey will be short and sweet. For short breaks, I'd always recommend choosing the earliest route possible, or the earliest you can stomach at least. Aiming to be in Paris's city centre by midday will allow you to choose a lunch spot close to your hotel or accommodation and begin enjoying the vibrance of this beautiful city.
*Tip: if you're coming from England and are close to London I'd highly recommend opting for the Eurostar. It took us just over two hours to get from London to Paris. Gare du Nord is very well located and has metro lines that will take you, or connect you to almost anywhere in Paris.
Like most other cities, check in time for some accommodation in Paris will be around 2/3pm, so once you've topped up on your first Parisian meal, get yourself checked in and ready for some late afternoon exploring. Now, there are so many things you could do on your first afternoon in Paris, but it will really depend on what it is you want to prioritise. Personally, I like to spend my first evening in a new city exploring the local area I'm staying in, which for me is usually the 10th/9th. As this area isn't too far from Notre-Dame, this is where I'd spend my first afternoon into the evening. If you'd rather spend your first evening with a dinner view of the Eiffel Tower, I'd recommend going to see the Arc de Triumph followed by dinner at Girafe Restaurant to watch the Eiffel Tower light up at night. Magical.
Day 2 / first full day
As there's so much to see in this gorgeous city, I'd be inclined to get up at a reasonable hour to get as much sightseeing done as possible. Of course, as I don't know what's on your own list of things to see in Paris, it's hard to give a full breakdown of exactly what to do on your first day. It will depend entirely on what your priorities are.
Stop one: The Eiffel Tower.
If you're planning to climb this incredible structure, make it one of the first things you do. Queues can be really lengthy so just prepare to wait in line to be able to climb. Honestly, scaling the Eiffel Tower is an absolute must for first timers in Paris. Nothing quite prepares you for the sheer size of the tour and climbing it gives you a totally different perspective. If you're able, take the stairs. The queues are shorter and you get to see the insides, if you will, of the structure. It can take anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour to get to the last platform before the lifts, and don't forget to really take in the views on your way up.
*Tip: book your tickets in advance to join the quickest queue possible.
Stop two: The Arc De Triomphe & Champs Élysées
If you didn't get a chance to check out the Arc de Triumph on your first evening it's time to do it now. You can either choose to climb the arc or admire the views from the ground. Either way it's a must see on your first trip to Paris. Once you've finished at the Arc take a stroll down the beautiful Champs Élysées, one of Paris' most famous shopping areas. This is also a great place to stop for refreshments.
Stop three: Louvre
Now, if you're planning to head inside the Louvre I'd recommend giving yourself 2-3 hours of museum time. Do not plan on seeing everything inside as there's just too much and it can become overwhelming. (Disclaimer, we've never been inside as art isn't really our thing, but from what friends have told me you'd need days to be able to see absolutely everything). If like me, you're planning to just see the architecture from the outside and grab some snaps, you shouldn't need more than half an hour to take a look around this area.
Stop four: Notre Dame & Saint Germain
If you opted to skip the inside of the Lourve, you should likely have some time left in the afternoon to head to the Notre Dame Cathedral. As I'm writing this blog, the cathedral is currently closed on the inside due to the fire back in 2019 (after our first visit), but the outside is still 100% worth seeing. Take a stroll around the building and grab a drink nearby to people watch before heading into the Saint Germain area. There are plenty of things to do in and around this area, which is also home to the infamous Les Deux Magots. Wander through the cobbled streets and find yourself a great spot for dinner and drinks.
Day 3 / last full day
If your last full day lands on a Sunday then you're in luck. Monmartre on a Sunday is absolute heaven. In this gorgeous area you'll find the most adorable little buildings, cobbled streets, a variety of shops and restaurants and a host of street artists selling their work. Make sure to check out the Sacre Coeur whilst in this area. Here you can take in spectacular views of the city before making your way through the narrow streets to find yourself a spot of lunch or an artisan coffee. Pure bliss!
*Tip: Please beware that to get to the top of the hill where Sacre Coeur sits, you'll need to climb 270 stairs. If there's no way you can make the steep journey, find the funicular on a map and hitch a ride to the top!
Your last day in Paris is also perfect for a spot of shopping at Galeries Lafayette, Paris' most well known designer mall. You don't really need to have an interest in shopping to visit this spot as the architecture alone is enough to draw a crowd. This beautiful building features and incredible 141ft glass dome, surrounded by the most intricate balcony designs that will wow you as soon as you enter the main hall.
Not bothered about designer brands or unique architecture? Opt to swap this activity for a serene boat ride down the river Siene, something I'm sure your limbs will be grateful for after a busy weekend exploring the city.
Day 4 / home time
If you were lucky enough to bag a late afternoon or early evening trip home then you might have some time to squeeze in a few extras. Click here for other sights you might want to see during your time in Paris.
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