3 Days in Paris: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Paris, also known as the city of love and the city of lights, is one of the most loved cities in the world, offering plenty of options to explore. Whether you are visiting Paris for the first time or many times, every trip brings something new to discover — which is why planning a visit here always feels exciting. From strolling through Montmartre’s charming streets to admiring the Eiffel Tower at night, every experience feels magical and unforgettable.

If you are visiting for the first time, it can be difficult to decide what to see in such a short time, as there’s so much to do in and around the city. This smartly planned 3-day itinerary gives you a balance of local experiences and iconic sights.

So, plan your trip with this Paris travel guide and dive into the timeless beauty of Paris.

How to Get Around in Paris

Paris is best explored by walking, as many of the popular attractions are close together, particularly in Montmartre, Le Marais, and along the Seine. By walking, you’ll discover local cafés, enjoy charming streets, and stumble upon hidden corners you might otherwise miss. Just make sure to bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot.

If you don’t want to explore the city on foot, taxis are a good option. They can be booked through an app or hailed directly from the street. Keep in mind, however, that waiting times can be longer during busy hours.

Paris also has a strong public transportation system, with the metro being the fastest and most efficient option. With 16 lines covering most of the city, the metro makes it easy to reach iconic places like Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower, or the Louvre. Signs are available in both French and English, making navigation simple.

For a more scenic option, consider a river cruise along the Seine, which offers breathtaking views of Paris from the water. Along the route, you’ll spot landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, adding charm to your journey.

Once you land in Paris, the best way to get to the city center is by taxi. It is convenient and fast, giving you more time to relax and start exploring.

Enjoy a meal at your hotel or head to a courtyard café for a satisfying lunch. Eating outdoors surrounded by lush greenery and citrus trees creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere — the perfect introduction to Paris.

Confused about what to see in Paris in 3 days? Start with a leisurely walk along the Seine River. This experience mixes the city’s most iconic sights with the beauty of the river, making it unforgettable for first-time visitors.

Along the way, you’ll spot:

• The Ferris wheel in the Tuileries Garden, glowing beautifully in the evening
• The Love Lock Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in Paris
• The Notre-Dame Cathedral
• The Louvre Museum
• Place de la Concorde, one of Paris’s most historic squares tied to the French Revolution
• The Eiffel Tower, standing tall and sparkling brilliantly at night

This walk is one of the best ways to enjoy the Parisian atmosphere at a slow, comfortable pace.

Dinner Options

• Dinner Cruise on the Seine
  A dinner cruise offers excellent views paired with gourmet French cuisine. Enjoy a four-course dinner with champagne while admiring illuminated landmarks, especially the glowing Eiffel Tower. Many cruises also feature live music and photographers to capture your special evening.
• Dinner at a Traditional Parisian Restaurant
  Another wonderful option is dining at a cozy, authentic restaurant. These local spots offer a welcoming atmosphere and delicious cuisine, making them the perfect way to wrap up your first evening in Paris.

f you are in Paris for three days, it is worth making a short trip to the world-famous Palace of Versailles, the most popular day trip from Paris.

To reach Versailles, you can travel independently or join a guided tour. For first-time visitors, a guided tour is recommended as it simplifies logistics and includes insightful commentary. Always book tickets in advance, preferably the Passport ticket, which covers the Palace, the Trianon, and the gardens.

Take the RER C train (yellow line) from Paris, departing from stations like Saint-Michel Notre Dame or Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower. Once you arrive at Versailles Château–Rive Gauche, follow the crowd to the Palace.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• The Palace interiors
• The Trianon Estate
• The gardens with their famous fountain shows

Plan to spend 4–5 hours exploring the vast grounds. Transportation options include:

• Golf carts
• Bikes
• The Petit Train, with tickets available near the gardens

For a more detailed experience, a guided bike tour is highly recommended, allowing you to skip long lines and explore more efficiently.

Evening: Dinner Show in Paris

After returning to Paris, enjoy your evening with one of these options:

• Latin Quarter: A lively area with cozy wine bars and vibrant cocktail lounges
• Cabaret Shows:
  • Moulin Rouge: Famous for its lively can-can performances and red windmill (ages 6+)
  • Crazy Horse: Known for its artistic shows and creative lighting (ages 16+)
• Paris Catacombs: For a unique experience, visit the underground tunnels featuring the remains of millions. Advance booking is required.

Start your final day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most famous attractions.

Tips for visiting:

• Book tickets 1–2 months in advance, as morning slots sell quickly
• Avoid the main glass pyramid entrance; instead, use the Carrousel du Louvre for shorter lines
• Focus on highlights such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Galerie d’Apollon (housing the French Crown Jewels)

Expect crowds around the Mona Lisa, as it is one of the museum’s most visited pieces.

After leaving the Louvre, enjoy a relaxed lunch in the Jardin des Tuileries, one of Paris’s most beautiful gardens. Small cafés and crepe stalls make this an ideal spot for a light meal. The gardens also feature sculptures, colorful flower beds, and, at certain times of year, a Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views.

Dinner: End Your Trip on a High Note

• Frenchie Bar à Vins: A casual yet stylish restaurant serving small plates paired with natural wines.
• Berthillon Ice Cream: Finish your Paris trip with a sweet treat from the city’s most famous ice cream shop, beloved for its creamy textures and bold flavors.