A trip to Paris promises to be an unforgettable experience, but planning it can seem like a monumental task. After years of trips, we’ve crafted this Paris itinerary to help you skip the mistakes and dive straight into the best the city has to offer.
During our six years living in London, we often found ourselves hopping on the Eurostar for a weekend getaway to Paris. Through trial and error, we perfected the art of exploring the city in just three days. And now, you can benefit from our firsthand knowledge and avoid the common pitfalls.
In this guide, we’ve packed your 72 hours with iconic sights, fascinating cultural stops, and delicious food. From the Eiffel Tower to the Luxembourg Gardens, the Latin Quarter to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is bursting with experiences that will leave you feeling like you’ve lived there for years. Perfect for first-timers, this itinerary offers a smooth blend of must-see sights and hidden gems, ensuring your trip is filled with excitement from start to finish.
Top Activities to Experience in Paris in 3 Days
Three days is an ideal amount of time to explore Paris and see some of the city’s best highlights.
However, with so much to do, it’s easy to feel uncertain about what to prioritize and how to plan your time. That’s why we’ve put together a 3-day itinerary to help you navigate the city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring a rewarding and stress-free trip. Our walking tour combines a mix of famous sites and local charm, offering a well-rounded experience of Paris.
In just three days, you’ll explore:
- Musée d’Orsay
- Musée du Louvre
- Arc de Triomphe
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Tuileries Garden
- Eiffel Tower
- Latin Quarter (5th Arr.)
- Rodin Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité
- Seine River
- Champs-Élysées
This itinerary blends history, culture, and Parisian allure, providing a comprehensive tour of the city’s most iconic attractions. By the end of your visit, you’ll not only feel like you’ve experienced the essence of Paris but will also gain a deeper appreciation for its timeless charm.
Optimal Time to Visit Paris
Paris is a destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of the time of year. However, we recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to November) for a few key reasons. During these months, flight and hotel prices tend to be more affordable, and you’ll avoid the large crowds that flood the city during peak tourist periods. Plus, the weather remains pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities, allowing you to fully experience Paris at a more relaxed pace.
While summer in Paris is undeniably beautiful, it often brings heavy crowds and longer waits at popular attractions. Prices also rise, making it a less ideal time if you’re looking to avoid the hustle and bustle. For a quieter, more budget-friendly experience, consider planning your visit during one of the shoulder seasons instead.
Getting Around Paris: Your Guide to City Transportation Options
Before we explore the best things to do in Paris, let’s take a closer look at the city’s layout.
Paris is one of the largest and most densely populated cities in Europe, with over 2 million residents spread across 40 square miles. The city is divided by the Seine River, with the Right Bank on the northern side and the Left Bank to the south. In the middle of the river are two islands, Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité—home to the world-famous Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The city is split into 20 arrondissements, or administrative districts, which are often easier to think of as neighborhoods. The first arrondissement is located near the Louvre in the city center, with the districts spiraling outwards in a counterclockwise direction along both sides of the river.
To help you figure out where you are, look for the street signs. Each one typically displays the arrondissement number above the street name.
Getting around Paris is simple, with a well-connected metro system, buses, trams, and even boats available for easy transport. Taxis and ride-sharing options like Uber are also readily accessible.
However, we recommend walking as the best way to experience the city. This itinerary has been crafted with a focus on walkability, allowing you to soak in the sights at your own pace. Of course, if you prefer, you can use the metro or take a taxi whenever needed.
Paris Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
This Paris itinerary offers a well-paced 3-day plan for first-time visitors. Some attractions, like the Eiffel Tower and the Seine Boat Tour, require prior reservations, so be sure to plan accordingly.
If you only have one day in Paris, take a look at our guide, Is a Day Trip from London to Paris Worth It? for a more concise list of things to do in a single day.
Paris Itinerary Day 1 Overview:
- Start your day with breakfast at Café de Flore in the St. Germain neighborhood
- Take a leisurely stroll through Luxembourg Gardens
- Enjoy lunch at Cook n Saj
- Treat yourself to a hot chocolate at Angelina
- Embark on a relaxing Seine Boat Tour
- Explore Île de la Cité, home to Notre-Dame Cathedral
Paris Itinerary Day 2 Overview:
- Begin with a walking tour of Le Marais, starting at Place des Vosges
- Visit the Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’ oldest covered market
- Have lunch at Le Trumilou
- Spend the afternoon at the Musée d’Orsay
- Grab a drink at Café de Flore
- Visit the Pantheon
- Have dinner in the Latin Quarter
- End your day with a night view of Notre-Dame
Paris Itinerary Day 3 Overview:
- Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars
- Have lunch on Rue Cler
- Explore the Louvre Museum
- Take a walk through the Tuileries Garden
- Shop along the Champs-Élysées
- Visit the Arc de Triomphe to end your Paris adventure
This itinerary ensures a fulfilling exploration of Paris in three days, providing a mix of culture, history, landmarks, and leisure for an unforgettable experience.
Day 1 in Paris: From Café Stops to a Seine River Cruise
Your first day in Paris combines delicious food with breathtaking views! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and come ready to explore.
Start Your Morning at Café de Flore
Begin your day in Paris with breakfast at the renowned Café de Flore, located in the St. Germain neighborhood in the 6th arrondissement. From our apartment in the 7th, it’s just a 35-minute walk past Les Invalides Armory Museum, though the metro is a quick alternative for those pressed for time.
St. Germain gets its name from the Abbey of St. Germain, a 12th-century Gothic church at the heart of the district. Though the original church dates back to the 6th century, it was destroyed twice by Viking invasions before being rebuilt in 1163.
Café de Flore itself holds a fascinating history. Established in the mid-1880s, it ranks among the oldest coffee houses in Paris. The café became a haven for intellectuals, artists, and writers, including luminaries like Pablo Picasso, Louis Aragon, and Jacques Prevert.
Just across the street, you’ll find Les Deux Magots, a competing café where the likes of Albert Camus gathered for discussions.
As you continue down the street, you’ll encounter a plaque at the site of the now-defunct Hotel d’York, where Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay signed the Treaty of Paris in 1783, officially ending the American Revolution.
Try to grab a table outside, as it offers the best spot for people-watching. However, if it’s a busy morning, you might have to settle for a spot inside. The Art Deco décor remains largely unchanged since WWII, giving the café a nostalgic atmosphere. The service is welcoming, and while the coffee is strong, expect it to be on the pricier side—even by Parisian standards.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 1:30 AM
- Nearest Metro Station: Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Explore the Luxembourg Gardens
From Café de Flore, it’s only an 11-minute stroll to the entrance of the Luxembourg Gardens, one of our favorite green spaces in Paris. The park offers a perfect balance of walking paths, charming cafes, and numerous monuments that make it a lovely place to relax and take in the surroundings.
One of the park’s main attractions is the Luxembourg Palace, constructed in 1615 by Marie de’ Medici, the second wife of King Henry IV. She expanded the grounds, adding beautiful gardens and fountains, which have grown into the sprawling 57-acre park we see today.
Scattered throughout the gardens are more than 100 statues and monuments, primarily honoring French artists, composers, and nobility. Keep an eye out for the replica of the Statue of Liberty, crafted by the original designer, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi himself.
In front of the palace, you’ll find the Grand Basin, where you can rent vintage toy sailboats—a fun and nostalgic activity. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, grab a seat on one of the many chairs or relax on the grass to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the park.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM in winter, 8 AM to 8 PM in summer
- Cost: Free
- Nearest Metro Station: Saint-Sulpice
- Walking Time from Café de Flore: 11 minutes
Lunch at Cook’n Saj
By now, you’ve likely worked up an appetite, so it’s time for a well-deserved lunch at Cook’n Saj, just a block away from Café de Flore. A short 11-minute walk from the Luxembourg Gardens, this cozy spot offers delicious Mediterranean dishes in a casual yet inviting setting.
The menu features a variety of fresh options, with main dishes priced between 16€ and 23€ and mezze offerings ranging from 4€ to 9€. It’s a great place to sample a mix of flavors without breaking the bank.
Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday: 12 PM to 4 PM, 7 PM to 9:30 PM, Friday & Saturday: 12 PM to 4 PM, 7 PM to 10 PM, Wednesday & Sunday: 12 PM to 4 PM.
- Nearest Metro Station: Mabillion
- Walking Time from Luxembourg Gardens: 11 minutes
Treat Yourself to a Hot Chocolate at Angelina
Save some room after lunch, because next on your list is Angelina, a renowned café and tea house located just in front of the Musée du Luxembourg. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Cook’n Saj, so you won’t have far to go to satisfy your sweet tooth.
While the menu offers a variety of tempting treats, the Angelina Hot Chocolate steals the show. Rich, creamy, and indulgent, it’s widely considered one of the best hot chocolates in Paris, and once you try it, you’ll see why.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Nearest Metro Station: Saint-Sulpice
- Walking Time from Cook’n Saj: 10 minutes
Cruise the River Seine
A boat tour along the River Seine offers an excellent way to view the iconic landmarks of Paris while learning about the history of the bridges and the city itself. There are plenty of tour options available, but we recommend the following two for their convenient locations and high-quality experiences.
- 1-Hour River Seine Cruise: This cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais, located near the base of the Eiffel Tower, and includes audio commentary in 14 languages. It’s an easy and informative way to see the city’s landmarks from the water.
Cost: 16€ per person
Nearest Metro Station: Champ de Mars–Tour
Walking Time from Last Stop: 50 minutes - 1-Hour Cruise from Pont Neuf: Board this cruise at Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, located just a 15-minute walk from Angelina (where you enjoyed your hot chocolate). As you glide along the river, enjoy live commentary in both French and English, offering insights into Paris’ rich history.
Cost: 13€ per person
Nearest Metro Station: Pont Neuf
Walking Time from Last Stop: 15 minutes - Seine Dinner Cruise: For a more romantic experience, opt for a Seine Dinner Cruise. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city as the sun sets while savoring a delicious meal and sipping on wine. This luxurious tour departs from Port de la Conférence and provides a perfect way to end your day in Paris.
- Cost: 120€+ per person
- Nearest Metro Station: Alma-Marceau
- Walking Time from Last Stop: 35 minutes
Visit Île de la Cité
If you choose the Pont Neuf boat tour, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the Île de la Cité afterward. This island holds centuries of history, with its origins tracing back to the 4th century BC. Today, it’s home to important buildings like the Prefecture of Police, the Palace of Justice, and the Tribunal of Commerce.
The island offers several notable attractions. Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, stands proudly alongside Sainte-Chapelle, a stunning chapel known for its intricate stained glass windows. You’ll also find the site of Paris’ first hospital here. After visiting the landmarks, take a stroll down a quaint street near Notre-Dame, where you’ll find cozy cafes and restaurants perfect for a drink or a crepe to end the day on a relaxing note.
- Nearest Metro Station: Cité
- Walking Time from Pont Neuf: 2 minutes
Day 2: Iconic Parisian Neighborhoods
On your second day in Paris, immerse yourself in the charm of two iconic Parisian neighborhoods that are rich in history and character.
Place des Vosges and Le Marais: 9 AM
Your day begins in Le Marais, a historic district that stretches across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. The name “Le Marais” translates to “the marshland,” and it’s a fitting description of the area’s old-world charm, with cobbled streets and hidden courtyards. It remains one of the most popular districts in Paris for both locals and visitors.
In the 13th century, the district was home to the Knights Templar, and by the 17th century, it had become a sought-after neighborhood for Parisian nobility. To truly capture the area’s grandeur, head to Place des Vosges, one of the oldest and, arguably, the most beautiful squares in Paris. Its symmetrical design and stately arcades make it a peaceful spot to soak in the history.
We recommend visiting Place des Vosges in the morning before the crowds arrive. It offers a serene atmosphere, surrounded by historic hotels, shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the former home of Victor Hugo, the renowned writer of Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. His apartment is now a free museum, making it a worthwhile stop as you enjoy the square.
After exploring the square, take a walk along Rue des Francs Bourgeois, a lively street brimming with shops, restaurants, and cafés. If you’re in the mood for a treat, head to Sacha Finkelsztajn on Rue des Rosiers, just a short walk away. This Jewish deli is a hidden gem where you can enjoy some of the best pastries in the area, nestled in the heart of the neighborhood’s long-standing Jewish community.
- Nearest Metro Station: Chemin Vert or Saint-Paul
Marché des Enfants Rouges: 10:30 AM
Head a few blocks north to Marché des Enfants Rouges, or the Market of the Red Children, named after the nearby orphanage where children wore red clothing. Established in 1628, it’s the oldest covered market in Paris and remains a local favorite.
The market is filled with an assortment of fresh produce, cheeses, and other delicious French staples. But the true highlight is the array of street food vendors offering everything from classic French dishes to international options like burgers, bento boxes, and seafood. There’s not much seating, so be prepared to grab your food and stand while you enjoy it.
While the market is an excellent spot for a snack, we suggest saving your appetite for the next stop on your itinerary. You can still sample a variety of small treats while you explore the market’s many food stalls, but hold off on a full meal.
After visiting the market, head south toward the Seine River. It’s about a 17-minute walk. On the way, stop by Hôtel de Ville, Paris’ City Hall. This magnificent building dates back to the mid-1300s and has been expanded over the centuries. The plaza in front offers great photo opportunities, so don’t forget to snap a few shots.
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Nearest Metro Station: Filles du Calvaire
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 17 minutes
Lunch at Le Trumilou: 12 PM
Located just one block from Hôtel de Ville, Le Trumilou is a charming family-run restaurant that serves classic French dishes like French onion soup, beef entrecôte, and escargot. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy authentic flavors in a relaxed atmosphere.
The restaurant sits on a bustling street, so if you opt to dine outside, be prepared for some noise. However, the location along the Seine, with views of Notre-Dame, makes it a worthwhile stop despite the busy surroundings. The scenery is pleasant, but the noise from the street can be noticeable at times.
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 PM to 3 PM, 7 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM to 3 PM, 7 PM to 10:30 PM
- Nearest Metro Station: Hôtel de Ville
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 18 minutes
Musée d’Orsay: 2 PM
After a satisfying lunch, continue your Paris adventure with a visit to the Musée d’Orsay. It’s roughly a 30-minute walk from Le Trumilou, and the route along the Seine offers refreshing river views as you make your way across the city.
To break up the walk, stop by the Jardin des Tuileries, located beside the Louvre. The garden is filled with fountains, sculptures, and seasonal flowers—an ideal place to pause and rest. If visiting the Louvre is on your must-do list, you could go in now, but keep in mind that tickets must be purchased online for a specific date and entry time. Don’t worry, though—the Louvre is already scheduled for tomorrow’s itinerary.
For first-time visitors, we prefer starting with the Musée d’Orsay, located on the Left Bank, directly across from the Louvre. The museum is celebrated for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, including masterpieces by Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Seurat, and Van Gogh.
Beyond the art, the building itself is a highlight. Housed in a former railway station built at the turn of the 20th century, the museum features the iconic Musée d’Orsay clock, which overlooks the Seine from the inside like a giant window. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the museum.
Plan to spend at least two hours here, though many visitors stay longer. A guided tour is helpful if you want deeper insight into the artwork and history.
You can enter without booking ahead (except on Free First Sundays), but reserving in advance is recommended for skipping lines. When we visited in the afternoon with advance tickets, there was no queue, but skipping the line always helps. If you have a Paris Museum Pass, no reservations are required.
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- Thursdays: open until 9:45 PM
Cost:
- 16€ per adult
- 13€ for adults visiting with children under 18
- Free for children, EU citizens aged 18–25, and all visitors on the first Sunday of the month
- Nearest Metro Station: Musée d’Orsay
- Walking Time from Le Trumilou: 30 minutes
Café de Flore: 3:30 PM
Head back to the St. Germain neighborhood, which you explored yesterday on your Paris itinerary. If you didn’t have the chance to enjoy breakfast at Café de Flore, now’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in their classic offerings. If you’re in the mood for a change, the nearby Les Deux Magots is another popular choice, just across the street.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 1:30 AM
- Nearest Metro Station: Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 18 minutes
Pantheon: 4:30 PM
Next, head into the 5th arrondissement, a lively district rich in history. One of the most famous landmarks here is the Pantheon, a monument commissioned by Louis XV. Initially conceived as a church, the building’s purpose changed during its construction, and it became a mausoleum instead. Today, it houses the remains of prominent figures such as Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.
To enter the Pantheon, you’ll need to buy a ticket, which grants access to both the main hall and the crypt. If you’re feeling adventurous, we highly recommend paying the extra 3.50€ to access the panoramic view. This part of the visit is open from April 1st to September 30th, and climbing the 203 steps to the top will reward you with 360-degree views of Paris that are simply unforgettable.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 6:30 PM
- Cost: 13€ per person, free for children under 16 and on the 1st Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December
- Nearest Metro Stations: Maubert – Mutualité and Jussieu
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 23 minutes
Dinner in the Latin Quarter: 6:30 PM
After a full day of exploring Paris, it’s time to indulge in a satisfying dinner. The Latin Quarter, located in the 5th arrondissement, is one of the best neighborhoods for dining, with its rich mix of bistros, lively cafés, and a youthful energy thanks to the nearby universities.
A great spot to start your evening is Rue de la Huchette, where the streets are lined with charming eateries. Since most restaurants in this area don’t accept online reservations, it’s best to either call ahead or drop by and put your name down. While waiting for your table, take a stroll around the area to soak up the local atmosphere.
Here are a few places we recommend in the Latin Quarter:
- Le Petit Chatelet
- Le Caveau de la Huchette Jazz Club
- Le Grenier de Notre-Dame
- La Petite Pointoise
- Union Square
- La Jacobine
Each offers a cozy ambiance and delicious French cuisine, making it the perfect place to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Walk by Notre-Dame at Night: 8:30 PM
Cap off your evening with a peaceful stroll along the Seine, making your way back to the Notre-Dame Cathedral. At night, the cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture is beautifully illuminated, casting a dramatic glow that highlights its grandeur. It’s a perfect way to end your day in Paris, taking in the history and beauty of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Day 3 in Paris: Must-See Landmarks
Your final day in Paris is the perfect opportunity to visit the city’s most famous landmarks, each offering its own slice of history and charm.
Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars: 9 AM
No visit to Paris would be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Standing at 1,083 feet, this iron masterpiece was constructed for the 1889 World Fair and has since become one of the most iconic structures in the world. It holds the title as the most visited paid landmark globally, making it an essential stop on your itinerary. To avoid long lines, we recommend arriving early.
Although it’s not necessary, booking your tickets online ahead of time is a smart choice, and you can reserve up to two months in advance.
The tower offers various ticket options depending on the floors you want to visit. The highest observation deck provides the best panoramic views, while the lower levels feature restaurants, making it a great place to grab a bite after enjoying the view.
Take some time to explore Champ de Mars, the expansive park at the base of the Eiffel Tower. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the surrounding beauty.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 10:45 PM
- Cost: Ticket prices vary based on age and the floors you visit. Adult tickets range from 11.80€ to 29.40€, youth tickets from 5.90€ to 14.70€, and children’s tickets from 3€ to 7.40€
- Tickets: Here
- Nearest Metro Stations: Champ de Mars Eiffel Tower or Pont de l’Alma
Lunch on Rue Cler: 11 AM
Just a short stroll from the Eiffel Tower, you’ll find Rue Cler, a charming market street in the 7th arrondissement. Lined with cozy cafés, specialty shops, and delightful French restaurants, it offers a perfect spot for lunch in an authentic Parisian atmosphere.
You’ll easily spot a variety of places to eat, though if nothing catches your eye, take a quick walk along the neighboring streets for more options. While some restaurants may feel a bit touristy or come with higher prices, Rue Cler still offers great choices, especially considering its proximity to the Eiffel Tower.
- Nearest Metro Station: La Tour-Maubourg
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 15 minutes
The Louvre: 1 PM
After a delightful lunch, it’s time to visit one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks – the Louvre. If you didn’t have the chance to stop by yesterday on your way to the Musée d’Orsay, today offers the perfect opportunity. Be sure to book your ticket in advance, as the museum often closes ticket sales during peak hours, especially in the summer when it gets crowded.
Housed in the magnificent Louvre Palace, the museum first opened to the public in 1793. Today, it boasts half a million pieces, with 35,000 on permanent display. Beyond the Mona Lisa, the Louvre offers an incredible range of art, from Egyptian antiquities and Islamic Art to Greek and Roman sculptures, as well as paintings, prints, and drawings from the last few centuries.
If you’re visiting with children and concerned about keeping them engaged, consider a Louvre tour for families to make the experience more interactive. Alternatively, for those looking to avoid the crowds, the Closing Time Tour is a great option for a quieter visit.
Opening Hours:
- Wednesday to Monday: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday: Open until 9:45 PM
- Cost: 22€ per person
- Tickets: Here
- Nearest Metro Stations: Louvre – Rivoli or Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre
- Walking Time from Rue Cler: 45 minutes
Tuileries Garden: 4 PM
After spending some time in the Louvre, take a short walk next door to the Tuileries Garden. Once part of the Tuileries Palace, the garden has a rich history dating back to 1564 when it was created as the French monarchy’s residence. Sadly, the palace was destroyed in 1871 during the Paris Commune, leaving the gardens as the only remaining feature of the property.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens, especially along the Grand Couvert, a tree-lined path that offers a peaceful escape. Throughout the gardens, you’ll find many fascinating statues, many from the reign of Louis XIV. If you have some extra time, visit the Musée de l’Orangerie, home to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies murals—an excellent spot for art lovers.
- Nearest Metro Stations: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre or Concorde
- Walking Time from the Louvre: 5 minutes
Champs-Élysées: 5 PM
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées begins at the western edge of the Tuileries Garden. This iconic street stretches for 1.2 miles and is 250 feet wide, running all the way to the Arc de Triomphe. The avenue is filled with theaters, cafés, hotels, and luxury stores, offering a blend of cultural and commercial experiences.
If you decide to walk the entire length of the avenue without pausing, it should take about 30 minutes to reach the Arc de Triomphe. However, there’s plenty to explore along the way. Feel free to pop into some shops, visit the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, or stop at one of the many sidewalk cafés for a quick snack or drink before dinner.
- Nearest Metro Stations: Concorde, Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau, or George V
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 5 minutes to the beginning of Avenue des Champs-Élysées (eastern side)
Arc de Triomphe: 6:30 PM
For your final stop of the day, head down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe, located at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, the second-largest square in Paris. Watching the traffic maneuver around the large roundabout is a fascinating spectacle, with cars weaving around the 154-foot-tall monument.
The Arc de Triomphe took nearly 30 years to complete and is now a defining symbol of France. The ground level is open to visitors for free, where you can admire the shields dedicated to soldiers from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Don’t miss the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame, a tribute to the fallen.
For an even better experience, consider heading to the observation deck at the top. To reach the summit, you’ll need to climb 284 steps or take the elevator to the mid-level and ascend an additional 64 steps (note that the monument is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers). The views from the top are some of the best in Paris.
You can reserve your ticket in advance online, which is recommended, especially on busy days, to guarantee access to the observation deck.
Opening Hours:
- Summer: 10 AM to 11 PM
- Winter: 10 AM to 10:30 PM
- Cost: 16€ per person
- Tickets: Here
- Nearest Metro Stations: Kléber, George V, Argentine, or Ternes
- Walking Time from the Last Stop: 30 minutes from the start of Avenue des Champs-Élysées (eastern side)
