2 Days in Paris: Top Things to Do for First Time Visitors

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Through all my years of travel, I’ve never fallen in love with a city, and my 2 days in Paris were everything and then some. When planning, the essential sites for me to visit were Norte Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum. Everything else was pretty much up in arms.

As a first-time visitor, with even less time than London and being solo, I wanted the trip to be as off the beaten path as Barcelona with a little more planning. I also wanted to get photos of myself, so I booked a photo shoot with Airbnb Experiences a few days before. If you plan to visit Paris, here is a travel guide to the best things to see in Paris in 2 days.

Traveling to Paris From London

I planned to travel to Paris from London via the Eurostar high-speed train when booking my flight to Europe. The train is about a 2 1/2-hour ride, but the longer you wait to purchase the ticket, the more expensive it is.

To save money, I flew from London to Paris on British Airways. London has many airports, so there are several budget airlines to choose from. When I was leaving, my aunt mentioned that leaving LCY airport would mean a shorter flight time if you stayed in central London. 

Another tip is Paris has two airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Paris Orly Airport (ORY). If you’re staying in Central Paris, ORY is a shorter drive-in. Both airports, however, have public transportation options to the city center.

Where to Stay in Paris

For first-time visitors, staying in central neighborhoods like Le Marais, the Latin Quarter, or near the Eiffel Tower offers easy access to major attractions. I stayed at the Hotel Eiffel Seine, a boutique hotel around the corner from the Eiffel Tower, across the street from the metro station, and close to cafes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel in the area, I recommend the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris is a very walkable city with the most notable sites and museums around the Rive Seine. I spent the two days in Paris walking around, using the metro only once, but if you’re not a walker, there are buses, taxis, the metro, and water taxis that will get you around.

Best Places to Visit in Paris in 2 Days

Paris, the “City of Light,” is filled with history, art, and culture. If you only have two days to explore, planning is essential. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time, from notable landmarks to local museums to some of the city’s most picturesque spots.

I visited most sites the same day, but splitting up activities for a 2-day Paris itinerary is doable. Here’s a day-by-day list of must-see sites for two days in Paris.

Paris Day 1: Explore the Heart of Paris

The Notre Dame Cathedral

Start your day with a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral. This medieval Catholic cathedral took almost 200 years to build and is located on the Île de la Cité, one of Paris’s most famous landmarks and a popular tourist destination. Though still under restoration after the 2019 fire, the cathedral symbolizes Paris’s resilience.

• Location: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro Station: Metro line 4 Cité, RER B, and RER C: Saint Michel – Notre Dame

The Holy Chapel (La Sainte Chapelle)

Next, head to the nearby Sainte-Chapelle, known for its stained-glass windows. This royal chapel, built in the 13th century by King Louis IX, offers a stunning display of biblical scenes in vibrant colors. It also housed the remains of the True Cross and Crown of Thorns of Christ.

• Location: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro Station: Metro line 4 Cité, RER B, and RER C: Saint Michel – Notre Dame

Louvre Museum

After visiting La Sainte-Chapelle, I headed over to the Louvre Museum. One of the top attractions in Paris, the Louvre is the largest art museum in the world and home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you aren’t sure where it is, look for the glass pyramid, which is the museum’s entrance. For quicker entry, use a skip-the-line pass or the Carrousel du Louvre, going down the stairs of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel.

• Location: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro Station: Metro lines 1 and 7 – Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre

Tuileries Garden

Walking distance from the Louvre Museum is Tuileries Garden. Formally a private garden of the Tuileries Palace, it became a public park after the French Revolution. Here, you can enjoy the serene fountains, manicured lawns, and statues. You can also visit The Place de la Concorde or ride on The Big Wheel at Place de la Concorde.

• Location: 113 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro line 1, Tuileries

Luxembourg Gardens

Take a stroll to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’s most beautiful green spaces. Created in the 17th century for Marie de’ Medici, these gardens are perfect for a relaxing walk, enjoying the statues and fountains, or unwinding in one of the many chairs scattered throughout the park.

• Location: Rue de Médicis – Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro lines 4 and 10 – Odéon, Metro line 12 – Notre-Dame-des-Champs

Musée Rodin

After a break in the gardens, head over to Musée Rodin. This museum, set in a charming 18th-century mansion, houses an extensive collection of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures, including his famous works The Thinker and The Kiss. The surrounding gardens are equally impressive, dotted with sculptures and offering a tranquil escape.

• Location: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro line 13 – Varenne, Metro line 8 – La Tour-Maubourg

Paris Day 2: Parisian Charm and Artistic Treasures

Montmartre and Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris (Sacré-Cœur)

Start your second day by visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris in the Montmartre district. Located at the highest point in the city, Sacré-Cœur offers stunning panoramic views of Paris. The basilica’s Romano-Byzantine architecture and the peaceful ambiance inside make it a must-visit.

• Location: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro line 2 – Anvers, Metro line 12 – Abbesses

Moulin Rouge

While in Montmartre, visit Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of the modern can-can dance. The vibrant red windmill and lively atmosphere make it one of the most famous cabarets in the world. While the shows are in the evening, it’s worth stopping by during the day.

• Location: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro line 2 – Blanche

Musée d’Orsay

Continue your day of culture at the Orsay Museum. Formerly a Metro Station, the Orsay Museum is Paris’s second most visited Museum. The museum displays famous works of artists, including Monet and Van Gogh.

• Location: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro line 12 – Solférino, RER line C – Musée d’Orsay

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Trioamphe

In the afternoon, make your way to the famous Champs-Élysées Avenue for food and shopping. Here you will find high-end stores like Cartier, Guerlain, Chanel the Louis Vuitton mansion, theatres and cafes, leading to the Arc de Triomphe, a monument dedicated to those who fought for France during the Napoleonic Wars. Climb to the top of the Arc for panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the surrounding area.

*Travel Tip* If you’re looking to get a first-hand look at the square, use the underground passage.

• Nearest Metro: Metro lines 1, 2, and 6, RER A – Charles de Gaulle – Étoile

Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Built by engineer Gustave Eiffel for the 1886 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower is the #1 attraction in Paris. Whether you admire it from the ground or go to the top, the Eiffel Tower offers impeccable city views. The surrounding Champ de Mars park is a great spot for a picnic or relaxing.

• Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
• Nearest Metro: Metro line 6 – Bir Hakeim, Metro line 8 – École Militaire, RER C – Champ de Mars

Take a Seine River Cruise

End your trip to Paris with a Seine River cruise. This scenic boat ride offers a unique perspective of Paris’s landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre. It’s a relaxing way to see the city, especially as the sun sets.

Additional Tips for Visiting Paris

Paris has something for every traveler to discover, from famous landmarks to hidden gems. Whether you’re spending two days or two weeks in Paris, these tips will help you navigate Paris like a local and ensure your trip is enjoyable. 

1. Book Tickets in Advance: Paris’s major attractions, such as the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, and Musée d’Orsay, can have long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to save time. Some attractions offer skip-the-line tickets or priority access, which can be a great way to avoid waiting.
2. Use Public Transportation: Paris has an excellent public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and RER trains. The metro is efficient, with 16 lines covering most of the city. Consider purchasing a Paris Metro Pass for unlimited travel on public transport. Additionally, download a metro map or app to navigate the system easily.
3. Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Paris, as it offers mild weather and fewer tourists.
4. Visit Lesser-Known Museums: While the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are must-sees, Paris is home to many other fascinating museums. The Musée Rodin, located in a beautiful mansion with stunning gardens, and the Centre Pompidou, known for its modern art collection, are great alternatives if you want to explore something different.
5. Enjoy the Café Culture: One of the best ways to experience Paris is by relaxing at a sidewalk café. Sit down with a coffee or a glass of wine and watch the world go by. Parisians love to linger over their meals, so don’t rush—embrace the slower pace and enjoy the atmosphere.
6. Explore Neighborhoods on Foot: Paris is a very walkable city, and exploring on foot is one of the best ways to discover its charm. Wander through neighborhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter to find hidden gems, boutique shops, and local eateries. Each area has its own unique vibe and history.
7. Consider a Guided Tour: To learn more about Paris’s history and culture, take a guided walking tour. Whether you’re interested in the French Revolution, the city’s architecture, or its art scene, there are many themed tours available. A guided tour of the Louvre can also help you navigate the museum and see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.
8. Be Aware of Pickpockets: Like in any major city, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like metro stations, tourist sites, and markets. Keep your bags zipped and close to you, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Many places in Paris accept credit cards, which can be a safer way to pay.
9. Timing Your Visit: The best time to visit Paris is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. If you visit in the summer, be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds. Winter can be chilly, but the holiday season offers festive decorations and fewer tourists.
10. Language Tips: While many Parisians speak English, it’s always appreciated to speak French. Simple greetings like “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), and “S’il vous plaît” (Please) can go a long way in making your interactions more pleasant.
11. Dining Etiquette: In Paris, dining is a unique experience. Meals often take longer, and it’s normal to linger at the table. Tipping is not obligatory, but it’s customary to leave a tip for good service. Don’t be surprised if the waiter doesn’t bring the bill right away—it’s common to ask for it when you’re ready to leave.
12. Shopping in Paris: From high-end fashion on Avenue des Champs-Élysées to quirky boutiques in Le Marais, shopping in Paris is a delight. Don’t forget to visit local markets like Marché d’Aligre for fresh produce and unique finds. If you plan on shopping extensively, consider taking advantage of the tax refund for non-EU residents.
13. Explore the Parks: Paris has many beautiful parks that offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Besides the Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries Garden, visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont for its dramatic landscapes or Parc Monceau for its serene beauty. These green spaces are perfect for a picnic or a quiet stroll.
14. Evening Entertainment: Paris offers a wide range of evening entertainment, from classical music concerts to cabaret shows at the Moulin Rouge. Check out the Opéra Garnier for a ballet or opera performance, or enjoy live jazz in one of the city’s many jazz clubs.
15. Pack for the Weather: Paris weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack layers and a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes. A light rain jacket or umbrella is also a good idea, especially in the spring and fall.

This itinerary of things to see in Paris in 2 days covers some of Paris’s most popular sights and hidden gems, offering a well-rounded city experience. Whether it’s your first trip or you’re returning to explore more, Paris is beautiful city that always leaves you wanting more. If you have more time, a day trip to Brussels, Nice, Monaco, or the Champagne region is also doable.

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