2 Days in Paris: An Amazing First-Time Itinerary
Are you thinking of spending 2 days in Paris? If you’re into romantic streets, croissants, and jaw-dropping landmarks, I highly recommend it!
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a lover of fantastic food, or want to bask in the Parisian ambience, the City of Lights has plenty to keep you entertained.
But let’s be honest—trying to see the best of Paris in 2 days is like trying to finish a whole wheel of Camembert cheese in one sitting. It’s tempting but can feel a bit daunting, right?
During my first trip to Paris on a weekend getaway, I was overwhelmed trying to fit everything in, from climbing the Eiffel Tower to visiting the Mona Lisa.
So, I hope this 2 day Paris itinerary helps you to feel a little less flustered when trying to plan your trip to this fantastic city in Europe. I also hope that, by the end of this article, you’ll know precisely where to indulge and where to be a savvy traveller, as it’s no secret that Paris can be pretty pricey!
My favourite travel resources for Paris
✅ Here’s the coolest hotel in Paris.
✅ Don’t miss this Seine River Cruise and the Eiffel Tower
✅ Don’t forget your travel insurance.
Is 2 Days in Paris Enough?
Are 2 days in Paris enough to soak in all it offers? I mean, 2 days is sufficient to see the iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, Notre Dame, and the artsy hills of Montmartre.
However, 2 days only really allows you to skim the surface of what the city offers. To get a more in-depth feel for the Parisian lifestyle, you may need almost a week to fully appreciate it.
That said, if you’re constrained to a 48-hour window, with some planning, you can definitely experience some of the best that Paris has to offer, and see some of the city’s most beautiful sights.
Where to Stay for 2 Days in Paris
First things first, let’s talk about where to stay. After a long day of walking around this gorgeous city, you’re going to want somewhere nice to rest.
Well, whether you want Eiffel Tower views (for those Insta-perfect pics), or somewhere as affordable as possible, here are some of the top places to stay.
- £££ – Shangri-La Paris – If you are looking for the ultimate luxury in Paris with views of the Eiffel Tower, the Shangri-La Paris is the perfect option. Not only will you wake to stunning views, but you are also just a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
- ££ – Hotels des Arts – For a mid-budget stay, the Hotels des Arts is perfect. Located in the heart of the city, you are just 260m from the Grand Boulevards Metro Station, making seeing Paris a breeze.
- £ – Ibis Paris Place d’italie 13ème – If you want to save some money on your accommodation, Ibis Paris Place d’italie 13ème is the hotel for you. You will find the Notre Dame and Pantheon near the Latin Quarter.
The Best Things to Do During 2 Days in Paris
- Eiffel Tower
- Seine River Cruise
- Louvre Museum
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Sainte-Chapelle
- Montmartre
- Musée d’Orsay
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Latin Quarter
- Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
- Moulin Rouge
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Art
So, without further ado, let’s jump into your perfect 2 days in Paris itinerary to ensure you tick off all your bucket list items.
On day one of our Paris itinerary, let’s dive headfirst into the iconic landmarks and artistic masterpieces.
These are the places that you’ve probably been dying to see and are just itching to cross off your Paris bucket list. Prepare for a bit of walking, but also prepare to be blown away by the beauty of this city.
9:00 – Eiffel Tower
Cost: €28.30 for lift access to the summit, €11.30 if you’re up for climbing the stairs to the second floor, and €21.50 to climb to the second floor and take the lift to the summit.
Let’s start with the one you’ve been waiting for: The Eiffel Tower. A quintessential symbol of Paris and a must-see for any visitor, it’s a good job you’re getting here so early because this landmark can get BUSY! But, it’s also a bit of a Paris must-see, so it’s got to be done, right?
I’ve enjoyed climbing the stairs and taking the lift; each offers a unique experience. If you’re looking for a quick ride to the top, you can go wrong with the lift. However, it is more expensive, so, if you’re trying to budget, you might want to take the stairs.
The Eiffel Tower isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a symbol of French ingenuity and a testament to the vision of its creator, Gustave Eiffel. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of the most visited monuments in the world.
Practical Information About Visiting The Eiffel Tower
To get there, hop on the metro and get off at the Bir-Hakeim station. You’ll catch your first glimpse of the tower as you exit, and trust me, it’s a sight that never gets old.
Now, the lines can be insane, especially during peak tourist season. So, either get there bright and early or book your tickets online in advance.
Top Tip: Tickets for the summit can sell out months in advance, so book early to get to the top!
11:00 – Seine River Cruise
Cost: Starting at €13 for a standalone ticket, here’s a pro tip: snag a combo ticket that includes both the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River Cruise.
After soaking in the awe-inspiring views from the Eiffel Tower, it’s time to see Paris from a different angle—a cruise down the Seine River. Trust me, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
As the boat glides along the water, you’ll pass by some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre. It’s like a floating tour of the city’s greatest hits, all while you’re sitting back and maybe sipping on some French wine.
The Seine River Cruise is a wonderful experience. The gentle sway of the boat, the reflections of historic buildings on the water, and the soft glow of the Parisian sky as the sun starts to set—ah, it’s pure magic.
Practical Information About the Seine River Cruise
To catch your cruise, head to the docks near the Eiffel Tower. It’s a short walk, and you’ll find plenty of signs guiding the way. Cruises usually run every 30 minutes, giving you some flexibility if you spend extra time at the Eiffel Tower (totally understandable).
12:30 – Louvre Museum
Cost: €17 for adults. Free for those under 18.
Ah, the Louvre! Just saying the name conjures images of art, history, and that iconic glass pyramid.
Let’s be honest, you could easily spend an entire day here—or even more—if you wanted to dive deep into its vast collections.
Buuut, we’re on a tight schedule, so let’s focus on the crème de la crème. First, you can’t visit the Louvre without seeing the Mona Lisa.
It’s pretty much the highlight of the museum, although, like many other popular things in Paris, you will probably have to fight through a crowd to actually see her!
I also recommend checking out a couple of other exhibitions. Whether you’re into ancient sculptures or Renaissance paintings, there’s something here for every art lover.
15:00 – Sainte-Chapelle
Cost: €11.50 for adults, free for those under 18.
Stepping into Sainte-Chapelle, you’ll be treated to a beautiful blend of architecture and stained glass. The effect of the light on the glass is pretty magical.
In fact, this Gothic chapel is renowned for its stained glass windows, which tell biblical stories in a kaleidoscope of hues.
The chapel itself is smaller than other Parisian landmarks, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in sheer beauty.
16:00 – Notre Dame Cathedral
Cost: Free to enter the cathedral
As you approach this iconic cathedral, you’re instantly captivated by its intricate façades, flying buttresses, and the hauntingly beautiful gargoyles that seem to keep watch over the city.
It’s a place where history, architecture, and spirituality converge, making it a must-visit for anyone spending 2 days in Paris.
Note: The Notre Dame is closed due to the 2019 fire but will reopen in December 2024. Even though it is closed, it is still worth a visit.
Total cost for Day One activities: €71.80 (depending on the type of ticket you purchase for the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River cruise).
Day 2: Culture and Foodie Sights
For the second day of your 2 days in Paris, we’ll explore some of the neighbourhoods in the city, finish the day with a shop on the famed Champs-Élysées, and enjoy a show at the Moulin Rouge.
9:00 – Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Cost: Free to wander, €6 to climb the tower
Montmartre is like stepping into a Parisian postcard. The cobblestone streets, the artists sketching portraits, and fresh croissants wafting through the air are all dreamy.
As you go uphill, you’ll reach the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The interior is just as awe-inspiring with its intricate mosaics.
Take advantage of climbing to the dome; the 300-step ascent might be a little tiring, but the panoramic views of Paris make the perfect reward.
Don’t miss Place du Tertre (Artist Square). It is a great place to buy some artwork or just watch the artists as you sit in a cafe and enjoy a coffee.
11:00 – Musée d’Orsay
Cost: €16 (or €14 if you purchase at the museum)
Housed in the former Gare d’Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is a spectacle even before you see the art. The giant clock face that serves as a window is Instagram gold. Inside, you’ll find an extensive collection of Impressionist art.
From Monet’s water lilies to Van Gogh’s starry nights, there’s so much to see. However, since the museum is large and you only have 2 days in Paris, you’ll probably need to prioritize your must-sees.
13:00 – Luxembourg Gardens
Cost: Free, but let’s budget €20 for a picnic.
The Luxembourg Gardens are super elegant and a perfect spot for a midday break.
It’s the perfect place to lay your picnic blanket with a spread of baguettes, local cheese, and fresh fruits, surrounded by meticulously manicured lawns and fountains.
The Senate building is a grand backdrop, and local Parisians playing chess complete the scene. It’s a fantastic escape from the bustle right in the city centre and is enjoyed by both visitors and locals.
15:00 – Latin Quarter
Cost: Free to explore, entrance to the Panthéon €11.50
The Latin Quarter is the soul of Paris. It’s a labyrinth of narrow medieval streets buzzing with students from the nearby Sorbonne University.
Explore the Shakespeare and Company bookstore, where literary legends like Hemingway once hung out. Pop into quirky shops selling vintage postcards or rare books, or enjoy the Panthéon on the edge of the Latin Quarter.
Top Tip: The area is also great for a coffee break; try a café au lait at one of the many charming cafes.
17:00 – Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Cost: Free to walk, €13 to climb the Arc
The Champs-Élysées is more than just a street; it’s a Parisian experience. High-end boutiques, theatres, and cafes line this grand avenue and it’s a great place for shopping, people-watching, and coffee breaks. The Champs-Élysées is particularly beautiful at Christmas when all the lights twinkle.
As you walk, you’ll see the towering Arc de Triomphe ahead. The monument honours those who fought for France.
Climbing to the top is a must; the spiralling staircase leads you to a panoramic view of Paris where you can see the trees that line the Champs-Élysées, and the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
This is a great place to watch the sunset over Paris.
Top Tip: You need to find the stairs that take you under the road and into the middle of the roundabout! Don’t be like us and try to cross the road!
21:00 – Moulin Rouge
Cost: Tickets start at €125
The Moulin Rouge is a great way to end your 2 days in Paris. The excitement starts outside as you see the famous red windmill. Make sure you arrive in time to snap a photo.
You’re transported to a world of glamour and glitz as you step inside. The show is a dazzling array of feathers, sequins, and incredible choreography. And let’s not forget the iconic French Cancan!
It’s a bit of a splurge, but you’re in Paris, and some experiences are priceless. You can purchase that, including dinner or a glass of champagne. I would enjoy dinner at a restaurant nearby and purchase a ticket with champagne.
Total cost for Day Two activities: €191.50 (depending on the type of ticket you purchase for the Moulin Rouge)
Practical Tips for 2 Days in Paris
Before you head to Paris, let’s talk about some of the details that will make your trip a little easier. Here are some practical tips to make your Parisian adventure as smooth as possible:
How to Get Around Paris
Paris is best explored on foot. This will allow you to discover hidden courtyards, quaint cafes, and those picture-perfect moments that make Paris unique. But the public transport system is your best friend when you need to cover more ground.
The Paris Metro is efficient and reaches almost every corner of the city. A single ticket costs €2.20 and is valid for multiple transfers within 90 minutes.
If you plan to use public transport a lot, consider getting a 1-day or 2-day pass, which costs €13.20 and €21.50 respectively (depending on zones). These passes cover unlimited travel on buses, trams, and the Metro for the period. Or, consider a hop-on-hop-off bus for easy access to the most popular sights.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is tricky. Each season has its unique flavour:
Springtime (from April through June) is when the city’s parks come alive with colour. You’ll experience mild weather and fewer crowds. Exploring Paris in May is ideal for riverside picnics and café-hopping.
The summer months (July and August) bring a wave of travellers, so expect bustling streets and higher prices. While the atmosphere is electric, be ready for the heat and the long queues at popular spots like the Louvre or Notre Dame.
Autumn (September to November) is a sweet spot for travel. The summer crowds have thinned, and the city is more relaxed. You’ll also get to see some beautiful autumn foliage (especially in October) at some of Paris’s parks, and hotel rates often drop a bit, making it easier on your wallet.
Winter (December through February) offers its cosy charm. The city dresses up in holiday lights, and while it’s cold, the festive mood is warming. It’s also a quieter time to visit, so you’ll deal with fewer crowds and potentially find some fantastic deals on accommodations (outside of the Christmas and New Year period).
The shoulder seasons—spring and autumn—are the golden tickets in my book. You dodge the extreme temperatures, and the crowds are more manageable, making it an ideal setting for the best 2 days in Paris.
Is 2 days in Paris Worth it?
Technically no, 2 days isn’t enough to see everything there is to see in pairs, but it’ll give you a great introduction to the city. You’ll also be able to see some of the city’s top landmarks in just 2 days, and get a little bit off the beaten path as well.
So, if you are short on time and debating whether or not to visit Paris, yes, I’d say it’s worth spending 2 days here as the city really is impressive. And who can resist views of the Eiffel Tower?
If you have less time, check out my 1 day Paris itinerary, and if you have slightly more time, check out my 3-day itinerary.
👉 If you’re wondering where to stay in pairs, here’s my guide to the best hotels even if you’re on a budget!
My favourite tools for finding cheap travel
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