How Many Days Do You Need in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, the city of love, lights, and fashion. It’s a city that has captured the hearts of people all around the world for centuries.

With its picturesque streets, iconic landmarks, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that millions of tourists flock to this beautiful city every year. But how many days do you need to truly experience everything that Paris has to offer? Let’s find out.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Assuming you’re arriving in Paris in the morning or early afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city on your first day. Start by dropping off your bags at your hotel and heading straight to the Eiffel Tower. This iconic landmark is a must-see for any first-time visitor to Paris.

Tip: Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

After taking in the stunning views from the top of the tower, head over to Champs-Élysées for some shopping and people watching. This famous avenue is lined with high-end stores and beautiful architecture.

Tip: Don’t forget to try some macarons from Ladurée while you’re there.

Day 2: Museums and Art

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and art galleries. On your second day, start by visiting The Louvre Museum. Here you can see some of the most famous works of art in history including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.

Tip: Plan ahead as this museum can take an entire day to explore properly.

After The Louvre Museum, head over to Musée d’Orsay which houses an impressive collection of impressionist art from artists such as Monet and Van Gogh.

Tip: Get there early or book tickets in advance as it can get very crowded.

Day 3: History and Culture

On your third day in Paris, explore the city’s rich history and culture. Start by visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral which is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. Although the cathedral suffered from a devastating fire in 2019, it’s still worth visiting.

Tip: Book tickets in advance to climb to the top of the tower for stunning views.

After Notre-Dame Cathedral, head over to Palace of Versailles which is just a short train ride from Paris. This palace was once home to Louis XIV and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tip: Plan ahead and book tickets in advance as it can get very busy.

The Verdict

So how many days do you need in Paris? Ideally, you should spend at least 3 days in this beautiful city to experience everything it has to offer.

However, if you’re short on time, you can still see the main highlights in just 2 days. Whatever your timeframe may be, make sure to plan ahead and book tickets in advance for popular attractions to make the most out of your trip.