2 days in Paris itinerary: the perfect plan for a short city break

Looking for the best 2 days in Paris itinerary? Discover how to see the highlights and experience the city’s charm with this practical day-by-day plan.

Why 2 days in Paris is perfect for a short introduction

Paris is one of those cities that never gets old. The French capital is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, but also for the charm of its streets, cafés, and parks. I’ve visited so many times I’ve lost count, sometimes for a dedicated long weekend, other times as a quick stop on my way to Spain by train. Each visit reminds me how much I enjoy simply wandering the city, because there’s always something new to discover.

If you’re short on time, Paris is also surprisingly manageable. With the right 2 days in Paris itinerary, you’ll be able to see the most important highlights and still get a feel for the atmosphere of the city. For me, two days is often the perfect balance: enough time to soak up the energy and beauty of Paris, but not so long that it feels overwhelming. In this guide I’ll share my tried-and-tested itinerary to make the most of a short trip to Paris.

The perfect 2 days in Paris itinerary

This is an easy-to-follow plan for your 2 days in Paris itinerary.

Day 1: Famous landmarks and museums

We begin the first day with the most iconic sites in Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.

Morning
I like to start my time in Paris at the Eiffel Tower. It’s the city’s most iconic landmark, but to be honest, I’ve never actually gone inside. I much prefer admiring it from different angles around the city. One of my favorite viewpoints is Rue de l’Université, a quiet street where the tower rises dramatically between the buildings.

If you do want to go up, be sure to book your tickets online in advance, as it saves you a lot of time in line.

Another great spot is the Trocadéro, where you’ll find one of the best panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower. From here, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine, perhaps toward the Pont Alexandre III, one of the most ornate bridges in Paris.

Afternoon
Head over to the Champs-Élysées for a walk toward the Arc de Triomphe. It’s always busy here, but the view from the top is just as impressive as from the Eiffel Tower, and usually less crowded. From above you get a perfect view of Paris’s star-shaped street layout.

Next, it’s time for a museum. The Louvre is world-famous and enormous. I’ve visited several times and still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of its collection. My tip: choose a few highlights (like the Mona Lisa or Venus de Milo) and don’t worry about seeing it all. Booking tickets online is highly recommended to avoid long waits.

Prefer something more compact? Visit the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former train station. Its impressionist collection is incredible, and the building itself is worth the visit.

Evening
For dinner, I often head to Saint-Germain or the Latin Quarter. Both neighborhoods are full of bistros where you can enjoy classic French dishes like boeuf bourguignon or a cheese platter. After dinner, take a stroll along the Seine. Paris at night is magical, especially around the bridges and the illuminated Notre-Dame. It’s the perfect way to end your first day.

Day 2: Savoring the atmosphere

After seeing many of the famous landmarks yesterday, today is all about soaking up the typical Parisian atmosphere.

Morning
Begin in Montmartre, the artists’ quarter of Paris. The Sacré-Cœur is free to enter, and from the steps you get a panoramic view of the city. Montmartre is touristy, but I still love wandering through its streets, there’s always so much going on. Don’t forget to explore the smaller lanes just outside Place du Tertre, where the atmosphere feels more authentic. This is also one of the nicest places to pick up souvenirs, like a vintage-style poster of a famous artwork.

Afternoon
Next, head to the historic heart of Paris: Île de la Cité. Here you’ll find Notre-Dame, which has reopened after years of restoration following the devastating fire.

Just a short walk away is the Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic chapel famous for its breathtaking stained-glass windows. Tickets often sell out quickly, especially in high season, so it’s best to book in advance.

Late afternoon
Depending on your energy level, you can choose between relaxation or lively exploration. The Jardin du Luxembourg is perfect for a break, with fountains, flowerbeds, and plenty of chairs you can move around to create your own spot. I love that about Parisian parks, you can always settle in comfortably.

If you’re in the mood for boutiques and narrow streets, head instead to Le Marais. It’s a neighborhood full of history, independent shops, and cafés, and it gives you a completely different feel from the grand boulevards.

Evening
End your 2 days in Paris with a boat trip on the Seine. It may be touristy, but seeing the skyline of Paris lit up at night from the water is unforgettable. Prefer to finish with food? Treat yourself to a classic French dinner in one of the city’s traditional brasseries, the perfect way to toast your trip.

With this 2 days in Paris itinerary, you’ll experience both iconic landmarks and characterful neighborhoods. If you have specific interests, feel free to adjust the plan. I personally loved the Musée Rodin and the Musée Picasso, and if you prefer quieter corners, Père Lachaise or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont are great places for a peaceful wander.

A few practical tips for Paris

In my opinion, this is a great setup for a first visit to Paris if you only have 2 days to explore. Here are a few final tips to make your city break smoother:

• Wear comfortable shoes. Paris is best explored on foot. You’ll end up walking many miles without even noticing, especially when moving between neighborhoods. Good shoes are a must.
• Dress in layers. The weather in Paris can change dramatically from one day to the next — and sometimes even within the same day. I’ve wandered the city shivering in the cold on one trip, and strolled around in a T-shirt on another. Layering makes it easy to adapt.
• Use the metro. The metro is quick, affordable, and gets you almost anywhere. With a day pass you can travel unlimited, which is handy if you’re following this itinerary. More info and fares can be found on the official website.
• Plan smart. For the busiest attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, buy your tickets online in advance and pick a time slot. This saves you precious time waiting in line.