How To Spend 2 Days in Paris, France

Spending two days in Paris can be a delightful experience if you plan your itinerary to cover key sights while also allowing time to soak in the city's ambiance. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Seine River

Morning

1. Eiffel Tower:

   • Start your day at the Eiffel Tower. Arrive early to avoid long lines. You can either go up to the second floor or all the way to the top for stunning views of Paris.

2. Champ de Mars:

   • After descending, take a leisurely walk through the Champ de Mars park for more views and photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower.

Late Morning

1. Seine River Cruise:

   • Take a one-hour Seine River cruise (Bateaux Parisiens or similar) departing from near the Eiffel Tower. This will give you a different perspective of Paris’s landmarks.

Afternoon

1. Louvre Museum:

   • Head to the Louvre Museum. Pre-book your tickets to skip the line. Focus on key masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

2. Tuileries Garden:

   • After the Louvre, stroll through the Tuileries Garden, a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Late Afternoon

1. Place de la Concorde:

   • Walk to Place de la Concorde, known for its historic significance and the Luxor Obelisk.

2. Champs-Élysées:

   • Stroll down the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most famous avenues. Browse shops or stop for a coffee at one of the many cafes.

Evening

1. Arc de Triomphe:

   • End your day at the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, including a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower at night.

2. Dinner:

   • Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant. Consider trying classic French dishes like escargot, coq au vin, or a traditional French onion soup.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Montmartre

Morning

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral:

   • Start your day at Notre-Dame Cathedral. While the interior may still be under restoration, you can admire the exterior and visit the nearby crypt.

2. Sainte-Chapelle:

   • Visit Sainte-Chapelle, located nearby, to see its stunning stained glass windows.

Late Morning

1. Latin Quarter and Panthéon:

   • Explore the Latin Quarter, a lively area with narrow streets and historic buildings. Visit the Panthéon, a mausoleum containing the remains of distinguished French citizens.

Afternoon

1. Musée d'Orsay:

   • Spend your afternoon at the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station. It features an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Late Afternoon

1. Montmartre:

   • Head to the Montmartre district. Visit the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, located at the highest point in the city. Enjoy the panoramic views of Paris from the steps of the basilica.

2. Place du Tertre:

   • Explore Place du Tertre, known for its vibrant artist community. You can have your portrait drawn or simply enjoy the artistic atmosphere.

Evening

1. Dinner in Montmartre:

   • Dine in one of Montmartre’s charming restaurants. Try local specialties like duck confit or a cheese platter with French wine.

2. Moulin Rouge (Optional):

   • If you're interested in experiencing Parisian cabaret, book a show at the Moulin Rouge. It’s a classic and entertaining way to end your visit to Paris.

Tips for Your Trip

• Comfortable Shoes: Paris involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

• Public Transport: Use the metro and buses to get around efficiently.

• Pre-book Tickets: For major attractions, pre-booking tickets can save you time.

• Language: While many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.

This itinerary offers a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and opportunities to savor the unique charm of Paris. Enjoy your trip!