3 Days in Paris: The Perfect Itinerary
Three days in Paris is enough to hit the absolute highlights without feeling rushed — the key is staying central and walking between sites rather than fighting the metro at peak hours. You'll leave with a deep appreciation for the city's grandeur and already planning your return.
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This 3-day itinerary is a starting point. Planawai's AI trip planner rebuilds it around your dates, budget, pace and who you travel with, with a map and cost estimate for every day. Free to start.
Your 3-day Paris itinerary, day by day
- Day1
Icons of the Left Bank
Start at the Eiffel Tower early (book tickets online to skip queues) and spend an hour on the Champ de Mars before the crowds arrive. Walk to the Seine for a 90-minute river cruise that puts every major monument in context, then end the evening in Saint-Germain-des-Prés for dinner at a classic French brasserie.
- Day2
The Louvre and Royal Paris
Dedicate the morning to the Louvre — focus on the Denon wing (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory) rather than trying to see everything. Emerge into the Tuileries Garden for lunch, then walk up the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe and climb to the roof for the best panoramic view in the city.
- Day3
Montmartre and the Marais
Take the funicular up to Sacré-Cœur for morning views across Paris, then explore the winding lanes of Montmartre village — the place du Tertre artists' square is touristy but charming. Afternoon in Le Marais: the Place des Vosges, the Picasso Museum, and some of the city's best falafel on Rue des Rosiers.
Tips for your Paris trip
- Buy a carnet of 10 metro tickets or load a Navigo card — single tickets are significantly more expensive and queues at machines can be long.
- Most major museums are free on the first Sunday of each month; book time-slot entry online at least a week ahead for the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay regardless.
- Lunch is the best value meal in Paris — many bistros offer a two-course 'formule' for €14–18 that would cost twice as much at dinner.
- Avoid the Champs-Élysées for shopping or dining; walk one block to side streets for the same experience at a fraction of the price.
Other Paris trip lengths
FAQ: 3 days in Paris
Is 3 days enough for Paris?
Three days in Paris is enough to hit the absolute highlights without feeling rushed — the key is staying central and walking between sites rather than fighting the metro at peak hours. If you have more or less time, see our 5 and 7-day Paris itineraries.
What should I do on day 1 in Paris?
Icons of the Left Bank: Start at the Eiffel Tower early (book tickets online to skip queues) and spend an hour on the Champ de Mars before the crowds arrive. Walk to the Seine for a 90-minute river cruise that puts every major monument in context, then end the evening in Saint-Germain-des-Prés for dinner at a classic French brasserie.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is April–June and September–October.
Can I customize this 3-day Paris itinerary?
Yes. Open it in Planawai and the AI rebuilds it around your dates, budget, pace and interests. You can then drag stops, change times or ask for changes like "less walking" or "more food".
Build my personalized Paris plan
This 3-day itinerary is a starting point. Planawai's AI trip planner rebuilds it around your dates, budget, pace and who you travel with, with a map and cost estimate for every day. Free to start.