Complete 2 Day Paris Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Bonjour! If you’re reading this, you’re probably about to embark on an adventure to one of the most iconic cities in the world—Paris. Whether you’re here for the art, the history, the fashion, or just the food (no judgment, those croissants are life-changing), Paris has something to offer everyone. In this guide, I’m going to walk you through a perfect 2 day Paris itinerary that will ensure you hit all the must-sees and get a real taste of Parisian life.
While two days isn’t nearly enough to explore all of Paris (darn, you’ll just have to come back!) this itinerary is tailored to help you soak up the best bits, even on a whistle-stop tour. We’re going to hit some iconic spots and discover a few hidden gems along the way.
Grab your favorite mapping app (the address links in the itinerary below are all to Google Maps), and let’s get this adventure started. And don’t forget to check out all my additional Paris travel advice to help plan the rest of your trip, like where to stay and how to get around, in my Ultimate Paris Travel Guide.
Ready to make some amazing memories? Allons-y!
Table of Contents
2 Day Paris Itinerary – Day 1: Iconic Paris
Sunrise Magic at Trocadéro
Kickstart your 2 day Paris adventure with an epic sunrise at Trocadéro. Trust me, there’s nothing like watching the Eiffel Tower light up with the dawn—absolutely Instagram-worthy! Just hop on Metro Line 9 and get off at Trocadéro. It’s an early wake-up, but totally worth it. (Obviously this will depend on weather and the time of year you’re visiting, but if the weather cooperates I highly recommend starting your day off like this!)
How to get there: Hop on Metro Line 9 and get off at Trocadéro. It’s an early wake-up, but totally worth it.
9:00 AM – Breakfast with a View
After soaking in those early morning Eiffel Tower sunrise vibes, it’s time for breakfast. Head over to Le Carette at 4 Place du Trocadéro for a flaky croissant and a velvety café au lait (around €10-€20). Want to keep that Eiffel Tower view? Grab a seat at Le New York at 48 Avenue de New York, where breakfast comes with a scenic backdrop (€15-€25).
How to get there: Both are a short walk from Trocadéro Gardens.
9:30 AM – Mid-Morning at the Eiffel Tower
Next up, the star of the show: the Eiffel Tower! Pre-book a timed skip-the-line ticket and head on over. As you ascend, the city unfolds below you—it’s like watching Paris wake up. Soak in those heights and the stunning views; it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.
You can do a self-guided visit by booking through the official Eiffel Tower website, or to get even more out of your 2 day Paris trip, consider a highly rated guided tour that includes skip the line tickets such as this one, this one, or this one – you’ll get a dose of interesting Paris info and history along with the epic views – win win!
How to get there: It’s just a short 10-minute walk from your breakfast spot.
11:00 AM – Late Morning on the Seine
After your Eiffel Tower adventure, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Seine. Board at the foot of the tower and float past Paris’s famous landmarks. It’s a chill way to see the city and snap some amazing photos away from the hustle and bustle (which you probably need a break from after the unavoidable crowds at the Eiffel Tower). Bateaux Parisiens offers a one-hour sightseeing cruise that provides fantastic views of the city’s most famous landmarks along the river. You can book your tickets here.
How to get there: The Bateaux Parisiens departure point is a short walk from the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
1:00 PM – Lunch in Le Marais
Ready for some lunch? Here three excellent options that I can personally vouch for.
For a classic Parisian lunch in a charming restaurant, order some escargot and steak au poivre at Chez Georges – 1 Rue de Mail (€30-€45). Reservations are recommended and you can make those here.
Or go for a more classic café vibe at Les Philosophes – 28 Rue Vieille du Temple, which has excellent steak tartare (€20-€30). No reservations needed.
Or if you’re looking for a quick cheap bite, grab a falafel to go from L’As du Fallafel – 34 Rue des Rosiers. (Some claim it is the best falafel they’ve ever had. While that’s a pretty high bar, the falafel is excellent and you will not be disappointed.)
How to get there: Jump on Metro Line 8 from Invalides to Chemin Vert and head into the heart of Le Marais.
2:30 PM – Explore Le Marais
After lunch, take some time to wander through Le Marais, the old Jewish quarter full of charming narrow cobblestone streets. This area is packed with trendy boutiques, cool cafes, and historic sites like the Picasso Museum and the Place des Vosges. It’s also a great neighborhood to pick up a unique souvenir from one of the artsy shops.
5:00 PM – Evening on Île de la Cité
As the afternoon winds down, make your way to Île de la Cité, an island in the middle of the Seine. Catch Metro Line 1 to Hôtel de Ville and explore the quaint streets in the area around Notre Dame Cathedral.
How to get there: Catch Metro Line 1 from Saint-Paul to Hôtel de Ville (about a 5-minute ride).
7:00 PM – Dinner by the Seine (7:00 PM)
An excellent nearby dinner recommendation is Le Saint Régis at 6 Rue Jean du Bellay on the neighboring small island in the Seine, Île Saint-Louis. Try the foie gras and the classic crème brûlée (€25-€40).
Another great option with amazing ambiance is Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole at 24 Rue Chanoinesse, where you can indulge in coq au vin and tarte Tatin (€20-€35).
How to get there: Both are within walking distance from Notre Dame.
8:30 PM-ish – Nighttime Stroll Along the Seine
Wrap up your day with a peaceful stroll along the Seine. There’s nothing like Paris by night—the city glows in a way that somehow feels both calm and lively. It’s the perfect end to a day packed with iconic Parisian experiences.
2 Day Paris Itinerary – Day 2: Artistic and Historic Paris
9:00 AM – Panoramic Morning Views of Paris
Start your day with a visit to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Perched on top of Montmartre hill, the steps of this stunning white basilica offer an incredible panoramic view of Paris. Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics. This is an incredibly popular spot in Paris and gets very busy as the day goes on, so I recommend an early morning visit.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Anvers, then either walk up the steps (there are a LOT of steps!) or to conserve some energy for the rest of your whirlwind trip, take the Funiculaire Gare Basse up the hill. You can use a standard Métro ticket for the funicular.
10:00 AM – Breakfast in Montmartre
Time for breakfast! Check out Le Consulat at 18 Rue Norvins, a historic spot that exudes old-world charm with its vintage decor and cozy atmosphere (€10-€20).
Another solid breakfast option is the retro Café des Deux Moulins at 15 Rue Lepic, which you might recognize from the movie “Amélie” (€10-€20).
How to get there: Both are a short walk from Sacré-Cœur.
10:30 AM – Mid-Morning In Montmartre
Spend some time wandering through Montmartre. This neighborhood is full of life, with winding streets, bohemian vibes, and rich artistic history. Check out the artists’ market and the Salvador Dalí Museum. It’s a place where every corner tells a story, and you might even stumble upon a street artist creating a masterpiece. Makes sure to stroll up Rue de l’Abreuvoir (pic below from a fall trip) for a classic Montmartre view.
12:30 PM – Afternoon Lunch at a Classic Parisian Cafe
For lunch, head to La Maison Rose at 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, a quaint pink cafe on a cobblestone street that feels like stepping into a Parisian postcard (reservations recommended) (€20-€30).
Or try the duck salad or cassoulet at the rustically charming Le Relais Gascon at 6 Rue des Abbesses (€20-€30).
2:00 PM – Louvre Museum
Next, make your way to the Louvre Museum. It’s a must-see, even though you’ll just scratch the surface of its vast collection in the few hours you spend inside. From the Mona Lisa to the Wedding Feast at Cana, there’s a lot to take in. The Louvre palace itself is an architectural gem as well. Book your timed entry ticket in advance to make the most of your visit. Also, if there is specific artwork you don’t want to miss, make sure to download a map beforehand to plan your route through the massive museum.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 12 to Concorde, then Line 1 to Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre.
5:00 PM – Evening Break in the Tuileries Garden
After the Louvre, unwind in the Tuileries Garden. This meticulously manicured garden, located right next to the Louvre, is perfect for an afternoon walk or to rest your legs after doing the museum shuffle in the Louvre for a few hours. Grab a gelato from a cart vendor and snag one of the green chairs by one of the fountains or claim a bench under the trees and rest like a true Parisian!
How to get there: The Tuileries Garden is right next to the Louvre, so it’s a quick walk.
7:00 PM – Dinner near the Louvre
For dinner, there are some fantastic options nearby. Check out the stylish Le Fumoir at 6 Rue de l’Amiral de Coligny for dishes like lamb shank and crème brûlée (€25-€40).
Or try La Brasserie du Louvre in the Hyatt Hôtel du Louvre at 1 Place André Malraux for a blend of French and modern cuisine for classics like foie gras and salmon tartare (€30-€45). Reservations recommended for both.
How to get there: Both options are a short walk from the Tuileries Garden.
8:30 PM – Rooftop Views of Paris
For a magical end to your day, consider a trip to the top of the Montparnasse Tower. The observation deck on the 56th floor offers stunning 360 degree views of Paris. The entry fee starts at €21 if purchased online here, but the breathtaking view of the city lights is totally worth it. From here, you can see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and many other landmarks beautifully illuminated. Time your visit so you’re there at the top of the hour so you can see the Eiffel Tower sparkle!
How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Montparnasse. The city lights from above really are magical and it’s perfect way to end your 2 day whirlwind Parisian adventure.
This itinerary packs in some of the best Paris has to offer, blending art, history, and loads of local flavor. Perfect for those who want to dive into what makes Paris, well, Paris!
Wow, what a ride these last two days in Paris have been! We’ve checked out everything from those can’t-miss landmarks to the charming nooks and crannies that give Paris its soul. And trust me, this is just a teaser—Paris has layers and secrets that just beg for a return trip. Each time you come back, you’ll find new surprises and make deeper connections with this magical city. So keep your adventure spirit ready, because Paris isn’t just a place you visit; it’s an experience that sticks with you, always leaving you wanting more. Safe travels, and see you soon, Paris—until next time!
And there you have it, a fantastic 2 day Paris itinerary that packs in some of the best Paris has to offer, blending art, history, and loads of local flavor. Perfect for anyone wants to dive into what makes Paris, well, Paris!
For more travel tips and advice to help you plan your Paris vacation, including where to stay and how to get around, check out my Ultimate Paris Travel Guide!