You’re thinking of spending 2 days in Paris. It’s a great idea! This is the ideal amount of time to visit one of our favourite European cities. It allows you to see the most important sights and attractions, and gives you a real feel for the place. You can always extend your stay by visiting more places, but three days will be enough.
We’re going to help you plan your trip to Paris by sharing everything we know. Here’s a 2 day Paris itinerary that we recommend, as well as tips and advice about getting around. We also offer suggestions on where to stay, when to go, and how to save money.
Let’s get started!
Paris Itinerary: Day 1
1. Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is a great way to begin your Paris trip. This iconic landmark is undoubtedly the best in Paris, if not France. It is worth a visit when you visit Paris. We always make sure to visit Paris at least once when we travel. Every time we do, we are amazed by the beauty of this magnificent building.
There are many ways to enjoy the Eiffel tower. You can first enjoy the view from the Trocadero Gardens across the river or the Champ de Mars gardens behind it.
We recommend that you visit Paris if it is your first time. If you plan to climb the Eiffel Tower, we recommend that you purchase your tickets online in advance. You can avoid the long lines by pre-booking your tickets.
If you feel fit, you could also climb the stairs to the top. The stairs have their own ticket line so there isn’t a long wait. They are also slightly more expensive.
2. Seine River Cruise
A river cruise on the Seine is another must-do activity in Paris. Numerous operators offer cruises along the Seine, making this a popular activity. We recommend taking a Seine River cruise while visiting Paris. It’s the most romantic activity in Paris.
The Bateaux-Parisiens River Cruise is highly recommended. They depart right next to the Eiffel Tower and are included free with a Paris Pass.
You will see all the highlights, from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower. There is commentary. Relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
3. Hop on, Hop Off Bus
We love to relax and sit back. A Hop On Hop Off (HOHO)bus tour is a great way for us to get oriented in a new place and to see the sights that we are interested in.
Paris is no exception to the rule. You can get a HOHO Bus in Paris right next to Eiffel Tower. It will take you to all of Paris’s main attractions.
Multiple operators offer different routes throughout the city. Paris Pass holders can get a 1 Day Big Bus Tour included in their Paris Pass. This tour was a great way to see the city and learn about the sights while you’re there. There are many operators to choose from, so make sure you pick the right one!
4. Paris Walking Tour
While sitting on boats and buses is great for orientation, you will eventually need to get on the ground. Paris is a beautiful city that you can explore on foot. A guided walking tour is a great way to do this.
If you’re going on a walking tour of a city, we believe the first day is best. You can ask your guide about their favourite places to eat and get a cup of coffee. Also, you can get recommendations for hidden gems that you won’t find in the guidebooks.
Many tour operators offer tours of Paris. Context Travel has provided many walking tours that we have enjoyed and we love their detail-oriented tours. You can get 10% off your purchase of any of their Paris tours. The Hemingway-themed walking tour through Paris was a great choice.
Paris Pass holders get a complimentary walking tour, which focuses on the most famous filming locations in Paris. It is great fun!
Paris Itinerary: Day 2
The second day of our Paris trip takes us to some of Paris’s most iconic places, including the famous churches and museums. This is a long day so feel free to modify the itinerary to fit your interests, pace, and needs.
5. Tour Montparnasse
The Tour Montparnasse is the last thing on your list for your first day of Paris. This is a great place to see Paris and the Eiffel Tower.
This is especially true at sunset. If you are able to time your visit to coincide with sunset, you can witness the beautiful sunset from the Eiffel Tower and then see the city lights come alive.
Two levels separate the observation level. One is inside, and one is outdoors. You can take clear shots of the outside view through cutouts. However, glass is used to surround the area. A tripod can be brought up there. It’s no surprise that this is one of my favourite Paris photography spots.
It costs a fee to climb Tour Montparnasse but Paris Pass holders get it free.
6. Sainte Chapelle
It took me several trips to Paris to finally reach Sainte Chapelle. It is now a top priority for everyone who visits Paris.
Although it is a small chapel, it is close to Notre Dame. The interior is filled with almost floor-to-ceiling stained glass. You will be blown away by its beauty.
It is very popular. The line to enter the 13th-century Saint Chapelle can get long due to its small size and obligatory security checks. It is the reason I’ve put it on my second day in Paris list. If you plan to arrive early, you should try to get there ten to fifteen minutes before the official opening time. It’s not something anyone wants to do.
Sainte Chapelle is open to the public, but there is a charge. Paris Pass holders are also welcome to visit. There is a special Paris museum pass available at a good discount If you plan to explore the museums in Paris.
7. Notre Dame
Sainte Chapelle, Paris’s most iconic religious building, is a mere ten-minute walk away. It is famous for its twin towers, flying buttresses and hunchback residents.
When you visit Notre Dame in Paris, the largest Catholic cathedral in Paris, you will see at least two of these three. This magnificent structure was built in just over two hundred years and completed in 1345.
This time slot can be booked on-site at the ticket terminals. We recommend that you use the “Jefile” app on iOS or Google Play to book your time slot. You can now reserve time slots every day starting at 7.30am. To avoid disappointment, set up a reminder and make sure you book your time slot in advance.