Paris isn’t just a city — it’s a state of mind. A place where beauty, history, and everyday charm meet on cobblestone streets and riverside benches. If you’re planning a short stay, this 3-day itinerary is designed to help you make the most of every moment — with just the right balance of iconic sights, neighborhood discoveries, and time to simply be in Paris.

This guide keeps things smooth and stress-free, so you can skip the chaos and soak up the magic. Let’s get into it.

Day One: The Icons of Paris

Start with the Eiffel Tower — still just as awe-inspiring in real life as you imagined. Whether you book ahead to ride to the summit or admire it from below, early morning is the best time to visit before the crowds roll in. From nearby streets like Rue de l’Université or Avenue de Camoëns, you’ll find beautifully framed views for your first Paris snapshots.

Pro Tip: If you’d rather skip the long queues and dive deeper into its story, book our expert-led Eiffel Tower Tour. You’ll uncover fascinating history, take in the best viewpoints, and discover little-known facts most visitors miss. Tours fill up quickly, so secure your spot early!

Next: The Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum, home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and thousands more. Don’t try to see it all. Focus on one or two wings — or better yet, join our Guided Louvre Museum Tour to get the highlights without overwhelm. Skip-the-line access and curated routes make your experience seamless.

Join 2,000+ happy travelers who’ve explored Paris with us and rated us 5★ on TripAdvisor.

Île de la Cité & Notre-Dame
Walk through the heart of Paris, where Notre-Dame still rises proudly. While the interior is closed, strolling around the cathedral remains one of the city’s most moving experiences. Our Notre-Dame Walking Tour explores the cathedral’s exterior, medieval streets, and rich stories you won’t find in guidebooks.

From here, step into Sainte-Chapelle, with its dazzling 13th-century stained glass — a hidden gem too many visitors miss.

End your evening with a Seine River Cruise. As monuments light up against the night sky, you’ll understand why Paris evenings are unforgettable.

Day Two: Neighborhood Charm & Everyday Paris

After a day of grandeur, day two invites you into the everyday charm Parisians love.

Morning in the Latin Quarter — cobbled lanes, historic bookshops, ivy-covered walls. Grab a croissant and wander like a local.

Relax in the Jardin du Luxembourg, where students, families, and friends all gather. It’s a slice of authentic Parisian life.

Afternoon in Montmartre — Paris’s bohemian heart. From Sacré-Cœur Basilica’s sweeping views to tucked-away galleries, Montmartre feels like a village inside the city.

👉 Want something truly unique? Join our Montmartre Wine Tasting Tour. Explore one of Paris’s last vineyards, hidden cellars, and enjoy vintages guided by a local wine expert. This small-group tour is often fully booked weeks in advance — don’t miss it.

Finish your day with a cozy dinner. Sometimes, the best meals are the ones you stumble upon.

Day Three: Royal Grandeur & Parisian Goodbyes

Versailles Palace — just 45 minutes outside Paris — is a must. Explore the Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments, and sprawling gardens.

To save time, book our Versailles Half-Day Tour. You’ll enjoy skip-the-line access and expert storytelling from our licensed guides. This tour is perfect if you want the highlights without losing a full day.

Back in Paris, stroll through the Marais or enjoy a café lunch. For your farewell evening, savor dinner in a traditional bistro before one last stroll to the Eiffel Tower at night. Watching it sparkle is the memory you’ll carry home.

Final Paris Travel Tips

  • Pre-book key attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Versailles (they sell out fast).
  • Stay central to maximize your time and minimize transport stress.
  • Pack comfortable shoes — Paris means plenty of walking.
  • Use a trusted agency like AV Paris Tours for stress-free planning. We curate your entire Paris experience, from skip-the-line tickets to private guides.

✨ Check our full range of Paris tours here and reserve your spot today. Your unforgettable Paris experience is just one click away.