So, you’ve got just 2 days in Paris? No worries! Paris may be the City of Lights, and with a well-crafted plan, your short stay will shine bright. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to uncover new corners of this enchanting city, this Paris in two days itinerary is your ticket to a memorable adventure.
When I was living in Scotland, I had heard several different people say “you either love Paris or hate it” after visiting and I’m not sure why that was such a common thing to say, because I loved Paris. It’s one of the coolest cities in the world, as it’s really easy to explore on a budget and is easy to navigate thanks to its great public transportation. My only conclusion is that those who hated it didn’t follow a good or realistic itinerary.
This two day Paris itinerary is perfect for anyone who found a cheap flight deal and is wanting to spend the weekend exploring Paris, or anyone who is short on time on a whirlwind tour of Europe but doesn’t want to skip the City of Lights. This is a perfect itinerary if you arrive on a Friday evening and leave Sunday night, but could be used any days of the week.
Here’s the tl;dr: if you have 2 days in Paris, stay in Montmartre and use public transit to explore the city’s most popular sites. Book early to make sure you get the best deals if you’re traveling between May-September and decide which views you do want to pay for (Sainte-Chapelle) and which ones you can skip (the top of the Eiffel Tower and the top of Arc de Triomphe).
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I personally stayed in Montmartre and found it to be pretty affordable and super charming (Moulin Rouge anybody?). The neighborhood has an authentic Parisian experience with local cafés, boutiques, and a vibrant, bohemian vibe.
You can stay anywhere you’d like in Paris for two days, though I highly recommend being within a 10 minute walk of a Metro station to maximize your time.
If you are arriving into Paris in the evening, traveling from Charles de Gaulle airport is relatively slick using the train system. At the airport, you’ll catch the RER B train headed toward Massy-Palaiseau, Robinson, or St-Remy-les-Chevreuse and ride the train for about 35 minutes before getting off at Gare du Nord. There, you’ll transfer to the Metro at La Chapelle station and board the Metro 2 toward Porte Dauphine. It’s a 10 minute walk into Montmartre from there.
Montmartre Hotel Recommendations
- Plug Inn Hostel – this hostel is great for your budget and located on one of the cutest streets in the area. I stayed here with my sister in a private room and the views out the window to the Parisian streets were amazing. The rooms are small, but the price is right, especially if you’re a solo traveler. Book on through Hostelworld here.
- Mercure Paris Pigalle Sacre Coeur – is a mouthful but a stylish yet affordable hotel offering modern amenities and a seriously prime location near Montmartre’s vibrant cafés, the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and the lively Pigalle district. Book here.
- Hôtel Monsieur Aristide – exudes eclectic charm with its retro-inspired design and intimate ambiance, nestled in the heart of Montmartre just steps away from the artistic allure of Place du Tertre. A little pricier but worth splurging on, especially in the off-season months. Book here.
Day 1: Classic Parisian Highlights
Morning: Sainte Chapelle and Notre-Dame Cathedral
Your Parisian journey begins with a quick croissant in the morning from a local cafe and then a journey to the stunning Sainte Chapelle. You’ll board the Metro 2 toward Nation and ride it for 4 minutes to Barbes-Rochechuart before switching trains to the Metro 4 toward Bagneux-Lucie Aubrac and ride that for 14 minutes until exiting at the Cite.
The Sainte Chapelle is a Gothic chapel, located on the Île de la Cité, and is renowned for its incredible stained glass windows. The light streaming through these windows transforms the interior into a kaleidoscope of colors that is beyond spectacular. In my opinion, it is worth paying the entrance fee to see for yourself.
If you’re an early riser, arriving early will help you avoid long lines and get the best experience. The chapel was built to house precious relics, and its intricate design is a testament to the grandeur of medieval Paris. You’ll want to spend between 30-60 minutes here.
You have several options for this:
- Purchase entry tickets to the chapel for $15 USD from the official website. You must pick a specific time window and arrive during that time, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Purchase dual tickets to see both the chapel and the adjacent and equally majestic Conciergerie, a revolutionary prison for $22. These can be great if the time you’re looking for on the website is sold out, as they’ll often have extra slots.
- Take a 2 hour walking tour for $47 that includes entrance to Sainte-Chapelle. On this tour, you’ll wander the streets of Île de la Cité to explore Paris’s origins and marvel at the construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral. Visit the historic Church of San Severino, the picturesque Place Dauphine, the city’s first bridge, Pont Neuf, and end with a ticket to see Sainte-Chapelle.
You can DIY this tour (more below), but if you’re really looking to be efficient and absorb the history and the culture of the city, the above tour is of great value, especially considering it includes admission to Sainte-Chapelle.
Just a short walk away is the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Although the cathedral itself is still under restoration following the 2019 fire, the surrounding area remains a hub of activity. You can admire the façade of this iconic structure and explore the nearby square where you can take in street performances and artists showcasing their work. The Notre-Dame has been a symbol of Paris for centuries, and its presence still holds a significant place in the heart of the city.
Late Morning: Walk Through Île de la Cité and Latin Quarter
Next, take a walk through Île de la Cité, where Paris was founded. This historic island is the heart of the city, home to Notre-Dame and other significant landmarks. Discover the origins of Paris as you stroll past charming streets and historical sites. I fell in love with an outdoor flower market and probably could have spent three hours there on my own. Enter at your own risk.
From Île de la Cité, head to the Latin Quarter, a lively and historic district known for its vibrant atmosphere. Explore its narrow streets, picturesque squares, and bustling markets. Don’t miss Place Dauphine, a hidden gem with its quaint charm, and the scenic Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris.
Lunch: Picnic at the Eiffel Tower
By midday, it’s time for a quintessentially Parisian experience—a picnic by the Eiffel Tower. Seriously, you’ll find yourself surrounded by Parisians, not just tourists.
Grab some fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine from a local market either in the Latin Quarter or by the Eiffel Tower. You’ll walk to the St-Michel-Notre-Dame Metro station and board the RER C train toward St-Quentin-en-Yvelines which runs every 5-14 minutes. You’ll ride the train for 10 minutes and exit at the Chape de Mars Tour Eiffel station and be there.
Head to the Champ de Mars or the Trocadéro Gardens for a scenic and leisurely lunch. Find a spot on the grass, and soak in the view of one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. The Eiffel Tower, with its iron lattice structure, is as stunning up close as it is from afar. If you’ve read basically any of my other posts, you know how much I love my pashmina scarf for so many reasons. It also doubles as a blanket on the grass.
If you’re like my sister and me, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled in case you see someone proposing, which we totally did. The mother/daughter duo from Michigan next to us couldn’t contain their cheers at spotting this stranger on one knee.
Pro tip: if you do bring wine with you (and you should, as it can be cheaper than water in Paris) make sure you either have an opener or get a screw top bottle if you can find one. There is a stand that will open for you for a fee, otherwise.
Once you’ve eaten, you can decide if you want to go up to the top of the Eiffel Tower or not. The cost is 22.60€ so it’s up to you if it’s worth the money and time. That was too steep of a price for me, so I personally skipped it in favor of spending more time picnicking and strolling along the river.
Afternoon: Stroll Down the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe
After your picnic, take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Élysées. This famous avenue stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It’s lined with shops, cafés, and theaters, making it a perfect place to window shop and people-watch. As you walk, soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy the elegant architecture of the buildings that flank this iconic boulevard.
Your stroll will lead you to the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Paris for 16€ if you want, though this is totally skippable if you’re sticking to your budget in my opinion. The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the top of the Champs-Élysées and honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. From its vantage point, you can see the city’s layout and several of Paris’s grand boulevards radiating outward.
This Paris travel guide is admittedly light on museums given that you only have 48 hours in the city. If they’re your jam though, you could instead use this time to visit one of the following:
- Centre Pompidou – Known for its striking modern architecture, the Centre Pompidou houses the Musée National d’Art Moderne, showcasing contemporary and modern art.
- Musée de l’Orangerie – Renowned for its stunning display of Monet’s Water Lilies, this museum also features a collection of works by Cézanne, Renoir, and other Impressionist masters.
- Palais Garnier – While primarily known as an opera house, the Palais Garnier offers a glimpse into the opulent architecture and history of Paris’s grand opera scene.
Evening: Seine River Cruise
To cap off your first day, embark on a Seine River Cruise. This is one of the best ways to see Paris’s landmarks illuminated against the night sky. The cruise will take you past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and other landmarks that look even more magical after dark. Many cruises offer dinner or drinks, which can make for a romantic and relaxing end to your day. The reflections of the city lights on the Seine create a picturesque scene that’s quintessentially Parisian.
The beautiful thing about these cruises is they are super affordable:
- This tour is $18 a person for an hour-long cruise with audio commentary.
- This cruise is $60 a person for a 2 hour-long cruise that includes a 3 course dinner
After the cruise, hop on the Metro and head back to the charming district of Montmartre for the night. If you didn’t opt for the dinner cruise, Montmartre’s narrow, winding streets are lined with cozy cafés, quirky shops, and art galleries. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening. You might even stumble upon a local bar where you can enjoy a glass of wine and rest your feet after your first day in Paris.
Day 2: Artistic and Cultural Immersion
Morning: The Louvre
Start your second day with a visit to the Louvre Museum. This world-famous museum is a treasure trove of art and history. With its vast collection, it’s wise to plan your visit around specific exhibits or masterpieces you want to see. Highlights include the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
Fair warning: the Mona Lisa is small. And there will be what feels like hundreds of people squished in the room with you. It’s fun to see for a couple of minutes, even if you’re not an art fanatic (hi, it’s me, I’m not an art fanatic).
The rest of Louvre is also fun to explore, but will only take a couple hours if you’re not a fanatic.
If you’re short on time, consider joining a guided tour to navigate the museum’s extensive collection efficiently. The Louvre is not just a museum; it’s an architectural marvel with its glass pyramid entrance contrasting with the historic palace surrounding it.
If you want to enjoy the exterior of the magnificent building, buy an overpriced coffee at one of the cafes and enjoy the balcony views of the glass pyramid. I have no regrets on this one.
Admission tickets to the Louvre are €22 if you purchase through the official site. If you’re short on time and the timeslot you’re looking for is unavailable on the website, it’s not a bad idea to pay a little extra to skip the line and do a guided tour.
The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting on a weekday.
Late Morning: Jardin du Palais Royal
After the Louvre, take a short walk to the Jardin du Palais Royal. This garden, located next to the Palais Royal, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The symmetrical design, elegant fountains, and manicured lawns provide a perfect backdrop for a stroll. The garden is also home to the Buren Columns, an art installation that adds a modern twist to the classical surroundings.
Lunch: Parisian Bistro
For lunch, look for a traditional Parisian bistro. Try classic French dishes like a croque-monsieur or a salad niçoise. The atmosphere in these bistros is quintessentially Parisian, with charming décor and a relaxed vibe. Enjoying a meal in one of these establishments is an integral part of the Parisian experience. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a café au lait and take your time savoring the flavors.
Or, if you’re really rolling on a budget, enjoy another picnic. Heck, you can even head back to the Eiffel Tower if you want (you know that’s what I did).
Afternoon: Musée d’Orsay
Post-lunch, make your way to the Musée d’Orsay. Located in a former railway station, this museum is renowned for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The building itself is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, with its grand clock and open, airy spaces. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. The Musée d’Orsay offers a wonderful complement to the Louvre’s classical art, focusing on a later period and a different style of artistic expression.
Evening: Wrapping Up Your Parisian Adventure
As your Parisian adventure draws to a close, consider spending your last evening in a local brasserie if you have a late night flight. If you have some room left over in your budget from 2 days in Paris, splurge on a classic French dish, such as boeuf bourguignon or a decadent crème brûlée. Many brasseries offer a cozy atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy a nice meal if you have the time.
Retrace your steps back to Charles de Gaulle airport on one last ride on Paris’s wonderful public transit system. Give yourself enough time to navigate CDG, as each time I’ve flown in or out of it, or even had a layover there, it’s a little bit more of a maze than I expect it to be.
Paris on a Budget
Traveling to Paris doesn’t have to break the bank. Many of the experiences in this Paris 2 day itinerary can be enjoyed without spending a fortune. Start with a budget-friendly picnic at the Eiffel Tower, use public transportation to get around the city, and take advantage of free or low-cost attractions like the Jardin du Palais Royal. Many museums also offer reduced prices or free entry on certain days, so be sure to check ahead.
As I mention in my 25 cheap travel hacks, if you’re flying from the US I highly recommend using a paid flight alert service. I use a service called Thrifty Traveler, which sends me alerts of great flight prices. At $99 per year it isn’t the cheapest service, but the only reason my sister and I went to Paris was because we got a flights alert that flights from Minneapolis were just $398. Round trip! Check them out here!
How to See Paris in Two Days
Seeing Paris in just two days might seem overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time, but with a focused Paris in two days itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Prioritize your interests, stick to a plan, and be flexible with your schedule. Paris is a city that’s as much about its atmosphere and charm as it is about its landmarks, so take the time to enjoy each moment, even if you wish you had a week to explore.
In summary, this 2 days in Paris what-to-do guide ensures that you hit all the highlights while also allowing for some local flavor. From the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to the quaint streets of Montmartre and the serenity of the Jardin du Palais Royal, you’ll get a taste of everything that makes Paris so special. Enjoy your whirlwind tour of the City of Lights!
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