Three days in Paris won't show you everything, but it is enough to see the great landmarks, spend time with world-class art, take a trip to Versailles, and fall in love with the city's cafés and neighborhoods. This 3-day Paris itinerary groups sights by area, so you spend less time on the Metro and more time soaking up the city.
Day 1: The Heart of Paris
Morning: The Louvre
Start at the Louvre, the world's most visited museum, home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Book a timed ticket in advance, arrive at opening, and focus on a few wings rather than trying to see it all.
Lunch: Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Cross the Pont des Arts to Saint-Germain-des-Prés, once the haunt of writers and philosophers. Have lunch at a classic café such as Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, or find a quieter bistro on a side street.
Afternoon: Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle
Walk to the Île de la Cité. Notre-Dame Cathedral reopened in December 2024 after its restoration, and entry is free. Nearby, Sainte-Chapelle's walls of medieval stained glass are breathtaking on a sunny day (book a timed ticket). Then cross to the Latin Quarter and browse the Shakespeare and Company bookshop.
Evening: A Seine river cruise
End the day with a cruise on the Seine, gliding under the bridges past the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower as the city lights come on.
Day 2: Art and Royal Splendor
Morning: Musée d'Orsay
Begin at the Musée d'Orsay, a grand former railway station filled with Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.
Lunch: Le Procope
Have lunch at Le Procope, one of the oldest cafés in Paris, once frequented by Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin. Or grab something quick so you have more time at Versailles.
Afternoon: The Palace of Versailles
Take the RER C train to Versailles, about 40 minutes from central Paris. Explore the Hall of Mirrors and the State Apartments, then wander the vast gardens, Marie Antoinette's Estate, and the Trianon palaces. The palace is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly, and book a timed ticket.
Evening: Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur
Back in Paris, head up to Montmartre. Wander its cobbled lanes, watch the painters at Place du Tertre, and catch the sunset from the steps of the Sacré-Coeur. Have dinner in a cozy Montmartre bistro, or see a show at the Moulin Rouge.
Day 3: The Eiffel Tower and the Marais
Morning: The Eiffel Tower
Go early to beat the crowds. Ride the lift to the top, or climb the stairs to the second floor for a workout with a view. Then walk across the river to the Trocadéro for the classic photo.
Lunch: A market picnic
Pick up cheese, bread, fruit, and pastries at a local market or food shop, and picnic on the Champ de Mars or in the Jardin du Luxembourg.
Afternoon: Le Marais
Spend the afternoon in Le Marais, one of Paris's most charming districts. Visit the Place des Vosges, the city's oldest planned square, and Victor Hugo's house (the permanent collection is free). Explore the Musée Picasso or the free Musée Carnavalet, browse boutiques, and grab a falafel on Rue des Rosiers.
Evening: A farewell dinner
For your last night, book a memorable meal, whether a Michelin-starred restaurant or a classic bistro in the Latin Quarter. Afterward, stroll along the Seine and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour.
Tips for 3 Days in Paris
- Book timed tickets for the Louvre, Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, and Sainte-Chapelle.
- Check closing days. The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, and Versailles and the Musée d'Orsay on Mondays.
- Consider a museum pass if you plan to visit many sights.
- Use the Metro for longer hops and walk the rest.
- Stay central, in areas such as Saint-Germain, the Marais, or the Latin Quarter.
- Stay connected. Tickets, maps, and train times are all on your phone. An egoViet France eSIM connects as soon as you land.
For more ideas, see the best things to do in Paris and the best time to visit Paris.
FAQs: 3 Days in Paris
Is 3 days enough for Paris?
Three days is enough to see the major sights and a day trip to Versailles. With more time, you can explore more neighborhoods and museums at a slower pace.
What should I not miss in Paris in 3 days?
The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, the Musée d'Orsay, Montmartre, the Marais, and a Seine river cruise.
Can you visit Versailles in half a day?
Yes, if you focus on the palace and part of the gardens. Book a timed ticket, and remember that Versailles is closed on Mondays.
Where should I stay for 3 days in Paris?
Central areas such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, and the 1st arrondissement keep you close to the main sights.