3 Days in the City of Light: Paris Itinerary
Paris is the perfect city to get lost. There is no wrong turn, and every corner offers a new croissant! Here is an itinerary that we very loosely followed to kick off our first week in the city.
Day 1
I hope you packed your walking shoes! While Paris is definitely a fashion hub, don’t be scared to put on your comfiest shoes. You can look stylish while also walking 20 miles a day. Staying comfortable is key!
We started our first day by checking in at Hotel du Champ de Mars located near the Eiffel Tower. This area was crowded day and night with lively music and cafes right next door!
Our first stop was lunch at Le Petit Cler next to the hotel. We split the Croque Monsieur and a carafe of vino. There is no better place to feel like a local than Rue Cler. There are several options for food and sipping your favorite cocktail while watching people walk by.
After taking our time at lunch, we visited the Arc de Triomphe. Tip here, DO NOT attempt to run across the road. The police may chase you. Access the arc through an underground tunnel on the Avenue des Champs-Elysees.
Once you have enjoyed the view from the top of the arc, take a stroll down Champs-Elysees. This a great place to spot luxury stores as well as a Ferrari or two.
We took a snack break at Laduree. Picking just six macaroons was not easy, but the lemon was my favorite!
Step in for shopping at Hermes or Louis Vitton.
We decided to stop for a drink at the Four Seasons. If you enjoy a nice cocktail or bourbon, this is the spot for you.
We had dinner reservations at Le Fouquet’s.
The 10:30pm show at Crazy Horse was definitely one to remember. The bottle of champagne was a nice touch!
Day 2
The best way to start a busy day is with lots of carbs. Breakfast at Maison Julien was our favorite stop. Located on Rue Cler, this brasserie offers all the breakfast sweets and salts you can handle!
A walk down Rue Cler will guarantee the parisian experience. This market street is one the most popular in Paris and always crowded with locals.
Next, ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower! We booked our tickets a few days before our trip online.
Lunch at Jules Verne
Walk around Trocadero Gardens. This was one of my favorite views of the Eiffel Tower!
Check out Hotel Invalides and visit the Musee de l’Armee. If you enjoy history as much as my husband, this stop might take a while.
Visit the Grande Palais
We ended the day with dinner at Drouant. Make your reservation early! This dinner spot was one I will never forget!
Day 3
We started with breakfast at Angelina’s and I would highly recommend getting there early! There was line out the door and trust me, it is worth the wait. Their hot chocolate is the best in town.
We spent the majority of the day going to different museums in the area including Musee de l’orangerie, the Lourve, Musee de Orsay, and Musee Rodin. Buying tickets for a specific time slot online will save you a lot of time in line!
We bought our tickets the night before and had no problem finding a time slot. The air flow in these museums leaves much to be desired, I would consider packing a fan no matter the time of year you visit!
If crowds stress you out, I would suggest skipping this activity all together hop on a private Seine boat cruise instead. This is a great way to see remarkable architecture and enjoy without so much company!
More Paris blog posts coming soon!