Whether you're chasing croissants at dawn or admiring centuries of art by sunset, this guide ensures your two days in Paris will feel like a complete adventure. (And yes, if you're pairing it with a European road trip, Paris is the ultimate crown jewel.)
Day 1: Art, Architecture, and Authentic Paris
Start with a Sunrise Stroll at the Eiffel Tower
Beat the crowds and greet the day at the Eiffel Tower. Arriving early means fewer tourists and a magical golden glow across the Champ de Mars gardens. You don't even have to climb it — sometimes the best views are from below, coffee and croissant in hand.
Tip: For a peaceful view, head to the Place du Trocadéro for picture-perfect photos.
Wander Through the Historic Heart: Île de la Cité
Next, make your way to the historic center of Paris: Île de la Cité. Here you'll find the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral (currently under restoration) and the awe-inspiring Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its stunning stained-glass windows.
Don’t Miss:
- Walk the flower-lined Pont Neuf bridge.
- Explore the nearby Shakespeare and Company bookstore — a literary icon.
Lunch Like a Local in the Latin Quarter
Take a short walk south to the Latin Quarter, one of Paris' oldest neighborhoods. Here, narrow cobblestone streets brim with life. Choose a charming café, order a steaming bowl of French onion soup or a fresh baguette sandwich, and soak up the bohemian spirit.
Pro Tip: Rue Mouffetard offers some of the best local street food if you want something quick.
Marvel at Art in the Louvre
After lunch, it’s time for the Louvre. With thousands of masterpieces — including the Mona Lisa — it's impossible to see it all. Focus on a specific wing or theme to avoid museum fatigue.
Quick Hit List:
- Mona Lisa (Denon Wing)
- Winged Victory of Samothrace
- Venus de Milo
- The French Crown Jewels
Traveler’s Tip: Book your Louvre ticket online to skip the long lines and maximize your time.
Sunset at Montmartre
As evening falls, head north to Montmartre, the artist's hill. Watch the sunset from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offers sweeping views over Paris. Then, lose yourself in the winding lanes — you might stumble upon a street artist sketching, a hidden wine bar, or a cozy crêperie.
Don’t Miss:
- Place du Tertre (the artist square)
- La Maison Rose (the famous pink café)
Day 2: Gardens, Galleries, and Gourmet Delights
Morning Serenity at Jardin du Luxembourg
Start day two in a slower, dreamier way with a morning visit to Jardin du Luxembourg. This elegant park invites you to sip a coffee by the fountains, watch children sail toy boats, or simply sit and admire the perfectly manicured flower beds.
Optional Detour: The nearby Saint-Sulpice Church is a quiet alternative to busier Parisian landmarks.
Savor a Parisian Brunch
Brunch is an institution in Paris. Opt for a classic Parisian café where you can enjoy buttery croissants, fluffy omelets, and perhaps a cheeky mimosa. Marais and Saint-Germain are two neighborhoods bursting with excellent brunch spots.
Dive Into Impressionism at Musée d'Orsay
Next stop: the Musée d'Orsay. Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts railway station, this museum is home to the world’s greatest collection of Impressionist masterpieces.
Must-See Artists:
- Monet
- Degas
- Renoir
- Van Gogh
Bonus: The museum’s giant clock windows offer a gorgeous view across the Seine.
Afternoon Shopping in Le Marais
If shopping is on your Paris wish list, Le Marais is the place to be. Wander through boutiques offering everything from vintage finds to high-end fashion. The district also has excellent small museums, like the Musée Carnavalet and the Picasso Museum, if you're craving a quick cultural hit between shops.
Shopper’s Tip: Don’t skip Merci — a concept store that blends fashion, design, and a fantastic café.
Cruise the Seine at Sunset
As your second evening sets in, one of the most magical experiences in Paris awaits: a sunset cruise along the Seine. Glide past illuminated landmarks like the Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower sparkling against the night sky.
Pro Tip: Choose a smaller boat for a more intimate experience and better views.
Bonus Ideas If You Have Extra Energy
If you're still buzzing with excitement (or fueled by espresso), here are a few more ways to maximize your 48 hours:
Explore Canal Saint-Martin
A favorite haunt of locals, this area is hip, artsy, and much less touristy. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or an impromptu picnic by the water.
Visit Palais Royal and Its Gardens
Often overlooked, the Palais Royal offers gorgeous courtyards and black-and-white striped art installations known as Les Deux Plateaux (Colonnes de Buren).
Plan a Quick Road Trip Outside the City
If you have a little extra time — or you’re weaving Paris into a larger road trip — consider a quick jaunt to places like:
- Versailles: Explore the opulent palace and vast gardens.
- Giverny: Visit Monet’s ethereal home and gardens.
- Fontainebleau: A lesser-known, stunning château beloved by French royalty.
Paris’ proximity to so many incredible spots makes it an ideal starting (or ending) point for a longer road trip through France.