Paris, the City of Light, is a dream destination for travelers, but with so much to see and do, planning your first visit can feel overwhelming.

Fear not! We’ve crafted the perfect three-day itinerary that captures all the must-see sights, iconic experiences, and delicious bites to make your debut Parisian adventure unforgettable. Grab your walking shoes, charge your camera, and prepare to fall in love with Paris.

Day One

Begin your first day in Paris with the iconic landmark that defines the city: the Eiffel Tower. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take the elevator (or climb the stairs if you’re feeling adventurous) to the top for panoramic views of Paris. Snap that quintessential Eiffel photo and breathe in the magic of being in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

From there, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River toward Musée d'Orsay, housed in a stunning former train station. This museum is a haven for Impressionist art lovers, boasting masterpieces by Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh. Even if you’re not an art buff, the architecture and ambiance alone are worth the visit.

For lunch, head to a nearby bistro. Look for a classic like Les Antiquaires, where you can savor steak frites or a cheesy croque monsieur with a side of wine. Parisians are experts at turning every meal into a moment of pure delight.

Spend your afternoon wandering through the Luxembourg Gardens, a green oasis perfect for a relaxing stroll or a coffee break. Sit on one of the garden's iconic green chairs and watch the world go by as kids sail toy boats across the fountain.

Wrap up your day with dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Choose a charming restaurant like Le Procope, the oldest café in Paris, for French classics like coq au vin or duck confit. Then, stroll the lively neighborhood streets for a perfect Parisian evening.

Day Two

Kick off your second day in Paris with a visit to Notre-Dame Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that’s as breathtaking up close as it is from afar. While restoration efforts may still be underway, the area surrounding the cathedral is steeped in history, offering picture-perfect moments aplenty. Don’t forget to visit Shakespeare & Company, the beloved English-language bookstore nearby.

After soaking in the charm of the Île de la Cité, cross the river to explore the Marais district. Known for its narrow medieval streets, fashionable boutiques, and historic atmosphere, the Marais is perfect for wandering aimlessly and stumbling upon hidden gems. Stop into L’As du Fallafel for a famously delicious falafel sandwich that’s beloved by both locals and tourists.

Spend the afternoon at the Louvre Museum, but don’t feel pressured to see everything (you won’t). Instead, focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. If museums aren’t your thing, the Louvre's courtyards and glass pyramid are stunning enough to admire from the outside.

For dinner, treat yourself to something indulgent in the Champs-Élysées area. A bistro like Le Relais de l’Entrecôte specializes in steak with a decadent secret sauce, served with endless frites. Finish your night with a stroll up to Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking nighttime views of the city lights.

Day Three

On your final day, escape the bustling city center and head to Montmartre, Paris’ bohemian neighborhood known for its artistic charm. Start at the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the city. Entry is free, and climbing to the dome is optional but comes with rewarding views.

Wander the cobblestone streets and check out Place du Tertre, where local artists set up shop to paint and sketch. You might even leave with a personalized portrait. For breakfast, find a quaint café like Le Consulat, where the croissants and café crèmes will fuel your morning adventures.

Next, immerse yourself in Paris’ café culture at Les Deux Moulins, made famous by the film Amélie. Order a café au lait and pretend you’re starring in your own French movie while people-watching on the terrace.

For lunch, enjoy a casual meal at Bouillon Pigalle, a spot that offers classic French comfort food at affordable prices. Think escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and crème brûlée without breaking the bank.

Spend the afternoon visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery, a serene and hauntingly beautiful resting place for notable figures like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. It’s a peaceful yet fascinating escape from the usual hustle of the city.

Tips for Navigating Paris Like a Pro

Traveling through Paris for the first time can seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll find it smooth sailing:

  • Use public transit: The Paris Metro is both efficient and affordable. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for unlimited rides.
  • Pack comfortable shoes: The best way to see Paris is on foot, so be prepared for plenty of walking and cobblestones.
  • Skip-the-line tickets: Book tickets to major attractions (like the Eiffel Tower or Louvre) in advance to save time.
  • Learn basic phrases: While many people in Paris speak English, knowing a few French phrases like “bonjour” (hello) or “merci” (thank you) goes a long way.
  • Timing matters: Visit major sights early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be exploring Paris like a local in no time.

A Farewell with French Flair

No trip to Paris would be complete without indulging in some final treats. Before you say au revoir, spend your last evening at a Seine River dinner cruise. Glide past illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Pont Alexandre III while relishing a multi-course meal that feels straight out of a romance novel. It’s the ideal way to toast your unforgettable three days in the City of Light.

If you prefer to stay on land, seek out a final quintessential Parisian experience. Perhaps it’s sipping wine at a café terrace lit by streetlamps, or enjoying a late-night crepe from a stand in the Latin Quarter. Whatever you choose, Paris is a city that leaves you with a desire to return even before you’ve departed.

Though three days might seem short, this itinerary offers first-timers a balanced mix of must-see sights, cultural immersion, and moments of sheer Parisian delight. Whether you’re admiring an Impressionist painting or indulging in your second croissant of the day, Paris will steal a piece of your heart. Bon voyage!