Discover how to spend the perfect 2 days in Paris, where you can see all the famous sights, stay in cozy yet affordable accommodations, eat the best croissants, baguettes, and maybe even try escargot — all while sticking to your budget.
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We’ve visited Paris a few times thanks to family living there, and over the years, we’ve learned how to make the most of short trips.
If you’re working with limited vacation time and only have two full days to explore, don’t worry—you can still experience the best of Paris.
From iconic landmarks to delicious food, this 2-day Paris itinerary will help you hit the highlights in a way that makes sense for your time and budget.
I’ll share the major sights, where to eat, where to stay (hint: being close to a metro station is key since Paris is so well-connected), and how much you can expect to spend for two days in Paris. Plus, some links will take you directly to Google Maps so you can easily save these locations!
Here’s a glimpse at the itinerary for your 2 days in Paris: Day 1: Tuileries Garden, Louvre, Laduree, Speakeasy. Day 2 :Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees, Petit Palais, Seine River, Eiffel Tower.
Paris Day 1
Your first day in Paris is all about classic sightseeing, eating your way through the city, and feeling classy in the City of Lights.
Breakfast in Paris
Start the day with a visit to Darius Artisan Gaufrier for some waffles that will make you rethink breakfast.
These aren’t your average waffles—whether you go for the sweet or savory option, you’re in for a treat. I went for the savory, mainly because I had never heard of a savory waffle, and was ready to expand my palette. When in France right?
My waffle was topped with feta cheese, hummus, and roasted veggies. Trust me, it works.
Darius Artisan Gaufrier is currently closed for renovations, but another breakfast place you should try nearby is Papilles where you can also try savory or sweet waffles (pictured below).
Breakfast will run you about $20 USD per person, and every bite is worth it.
Tuileries Garden
Stroll through the Tuileries Garden, the largest in Paris, with a peaceful lake at its center. For ~$5 USD, you can rent a small toy sailboat for 30 minutes, which all the little kids loved, and it took me right back to watching Stuart Little way back in the day.
You’ll probably still be full from breakfast, but if you need a little pick-me-up, grab a snack from a café along the way.
We loved Happy Caffe, where you can order a croissant and a donut for about $10 USD per person. Perfect stop before heading to your next big sight!
Explore the Louvre
Next up, is the world-famous Louvre. If you plan to go inside, book your timed entry ticket ahead to avoid long waits. But even if you don’t, the Louvre’s iconic glass pyramid is worth a visit just to snap some pictures.
Chew Tip: The earlier you go, the fewer people you’ll have in the background of your photos. Or, visit during the off-season (typically outside the months when everyone’s having their European summers) to avoid crowds altogether.
The Louvre is typically open from 9 AM to 6 PM, except on Wednesdays and Fridays when it’s open until 9 PM. Be sure to check the hours ahead of time and remember the last entry is one hour before closing.
Once inside, you’ll want to spend at least 3 hours exploring the massive collection, from the famous Mona Lisa on Level 1 (Room 711) to exhibits showcasing art from Italy, Egypt, and more.
Entry to the Louvre is ~$25 USD per person, but just taking your picture outside is free.
Ladurée Macarons
Ladurée is a renowned Parisian bakery, famous for its delicate macarons available in a variety of flavors.
My personal favorites were the rose and Marie Antoinette flavors. The rose is light, sweet, and has a subtle floral note, while the Marie Antoinette reminded me of Fruit Loops with its fruity taste. Each macaron has a perfect chewy texture with a creamy center that melts in your mouth.
You’ll find Ladurée locations scattered all over Paris, including the Paris-Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports. One location is just a 2-minute walk from the Louvre, making it a convenient stop during your sightseeing. Some spots are cash-only, so be sure to come prepared.
Expect to pay around $38 USD for a box of 12 macarons at Ladurée.
Candelaria
Candelaria is a cozy taco restaurant at the front, but you’ll really want to see what’s hidden behind the white door in the back. After you enjoy some tacos and quesadillas, pass through the back, and you’ll enter a speakeasy serving up excellent cocktails.
The drink menu ranges from herbal lavender-infused drinks to fruity options like watermelon. The drinks are strong—one was plenty for me!
If you’re hungry, tacos or quesadillas will set you back around $10 USD per person, and cocktails are roughly $14 USD each at Candelaria.
L’Epicier Speakeasy
If you want to hop around speakeasies, there’s another one for you to check out about a ten minute walk away from Candelaria.
L’Épicier may look like an ordinary convenience store from the outside, but inside lies a secret cocktail bar. The fun part is figuring out how to enter—each guest has to pull an object from the shelf to reveal the hidden entrance, and they switch it up regularly, so you never know what to expect.
Once inside, it’s a dark and cozy space, lit with colorful lanterns that add to the vibe. I highly recommend the Agave Power drink, a sweet and fruity mix that hits the spot.
If you’re still hungry, they offer small Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. It’s a unique and memorable way to wrap up your first night in Paris.
Drinks are around $15 USD each at L’Epicier.
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Paris Day 2
Today is all about getting even more up close and personal with the absolute icon of Paris – the Eiffel tower, and experiencing more great food and free places to see on a budget.
Rue de l’Université
If you’re an early riser looking to snap an iconic Eiffel Tower photo, head to Rue de l’Université. Walk all the way to the end of the street for a great side view of the Eiffel Tower.
To avoid the crowds and get the perfect shot, plan to be there by 7:30 AM—you’ll have the place almost entirely to yourself.
The best part about Rue de l’Universite is it’s free to visit and take as many pictures as you’d like!
Cafe Lateral Breakfast
After your morning photo session, you’ll want to refuel. Café Lateral, located just a few blocks from the Arc de Triomphe, is a great spot for breakfast.
The staff here is super friendly, and the coffee is exactly what you need after an early start (or even if you slept in a bit after last night’s speakeasy adventure). Their croissants and brunch options are on point, too.
Plan on spending around $22 USD per person for a satisfying breakfast at Cafe Lateral.
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile, more commonly known as the Arc de Triomphe, is an iconic Parisian monument located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It’s a must-see, whether you choose to admire it from below or pay to go to the top for a panoramic view of the Paris skyline, including the Eiffel Tower.
The Arc was built to honor those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. You’ll find the names of French victories and generals carved into its inner and outer surfaces, including the only Black general to be honored on the arch. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, along with the Flame of Remembrance.
If you want to go up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, tickets are ~$18 USD per person, but it’s free to admire from the ground.
Champs-Élysées
After your visit, take a stroll down the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most famous avenues. It runs from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde, and it’s lined with charming cafes, luxury boutiques, and plenty of places to window shop.
Strolling the Champs-Élysées is free, and it’s the perfect way to soak in some classic Parisian atmosphere.
Petit Palais
The Petit Palais is a free art museum, but keep in mind it’s closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly. You can enjoy an incredible Paris museum experience without spending a cent.
Inside, you’ll find grand paintings and beautiful sculptures. Don’t miss the outdoor patio and garden area, where the mist, nature sounds, and bubbles create a peaceful, rainforest-like vibe.
Petit Palais is a great place to relax and take in some art for free.
Seine River
Next, take a stroll along the Seine River or hop on a Seine River sightseeing cruise if you have the time.
Many cruises offer views of Paris landmarks, including the French Gothic architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral, which sits on two islands in the Seine. Although the cathedral is currently closed to the public due to the 2019 fire, it’s expected to reopen in December 2024.
Check prices and availability for a Seine River cruise here.
A fun way to enjoy it is by having a picnic right on the lawn in front of the tower. Head to a nearby supermarket like Franprix to grab some essentials. My mom and I spent about ~$14 USD on croissants, grapes, cheese, and soft drinks for our picnic.
Paris is the City of Love, so why not treat yourself? Stop by L’Howea, a charming little flower shop where you can customize your own bouquet from a variety of flowers. We picked up an all-white bouquet for ~$11 USD. Bring a blanket, and set up your picnic spot for the ultimate Eiffel Tower experience. You’ll also find vendors selling wine and beer along the lawn if you’re in the mood for a drink.
As the sun sets, watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at the top of each hour after dark for 5 minutes—it’s absolutely magical.
If you’re visiting in the winter and a picnic isn’t an option, no worries! Check out our Explore Paris Travel Guide where we’ve listed over 10 top restaurant recommendations to keep you cozy.
After watching the tower light up, you might be tempted to go up to the top, just like I was. It took us around 30 minutes to wait in line, and tickets cost ~$18 USD per person without a guide.
You can take the elevator to the top, or if you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 1,665 stairs!
There’s usually a long line for the elevator back down, so walking down is a quicker option, taking around 10 minutes. We went for the elevator both ways though—no shame in that! While you’re up there, grab some “frites” (French fries) for ~$6 USD and enjoy a snack with a view.
Book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance here.
Dinner at Firmine
Firmine is a cozy restaurant with delicious food. I highly recommend the Four Seasons pizza, which comes with a soft, fresh crust topped with zucchini, eggplant, and roasted peppers—so good! If you’re feeling adventurous, try the escargots for ~$15 USD.
A quick note on tipping: It’s not expected in France since waitstaff receives a salary. However, once they realize you’re from the U.S., they may hint at tips. Don’t feel obligated to tip more than a euro or two, which is customary. Only tip what you feel is appropriate, and don’t feel pressured because you’re a tourist.
Plan for around ~$35 USD per person for dinner.
Alternatives
Maybe some of the earlier suggestions don’t match your travel style, and you’d rather explore different places during your 2 days in Paris. There are a few other options to consider.
Montmartre
Head to Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement, a charming neighborhood known for its artistic history. You can check out the iconic Moulin Rouge—whether you want to catch a show or just see the famous exterior.
Don’t miss Sacre-Coeur, the stunning basilica at the top of a hill. There’s a picturesque merry-go-round at the base, and once you make it to the top (after climbing quite a few steps), you’ll be treated to incredible views of the city. Entry to Sacre-Coeur is free.
Grab a crêpe along the way for around ~$6 USD, and browse the souvenir shops that line the streets as you approach the basilica.
Palace of Versailles
If you’re up for a day trip, visiting the Palace of Versailles is a great option. The palace is located about 11 miles west of Paris. It’s closed on Mondays, but from November to March, you can enter for free on the first Sunday of the month. Explore the grand halls, gardens, and fountains, and get a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of French royalty.
If you’re set on going, book your tickets to the Palace of Versailles in advance here.
Disneyland Paris
Another great day trip idea is Disneyland Paris, located about 20 miles east of the city. If you’re a Disney fan, this can be a fun and more affordable alternative to Disneyland in the U.S.
Disneyland Paris has two parks: Parc Disneyland, a castle-themed wonderland, and Walt Disney Studios Park. You can also explore Disney Village, which is similar to Disney Springs or Downtown Disney, with shops and restaurants to enjoy.
If your time is limited, be sure to plan ahead and know which parks or attractions you want to prioritize.
It’s a good idea to book your Disneyland Paris tickets in advance.
Where to Stay in Paris
Paris is divided into neighborhoods called “arrondissements,” and where you stay can change your entire experience. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you pick the right accommodations for your two days in Paris.
- 1st Arrondissement: This is right in the heart of the action, home to the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. You’ll be walking distance from iconic sights and can soak in all the Parisian history and art.
- 7th Arrondissement: If you want to wake up and see the Eiffel Tower, this is your spot. It’s perfect for that postcard Paris experience.
- 18th Arrondissement (Montmartre): Known for its artsy, bohemian vibe, Montmartre isn’t as close to the major sights but has a more laid-back, creative energy. Plus, it’s generally more affordable. Stay near the metro, and you’ll still be able to explore the city easily – it’s usually about a 30-minute ride to places like the Louvre.
- 9th Arrondissement: This is where I stayed, and I loved it! You’re surrounded by culture and history (like the Paris Opera) but without the overwhelming tourist crowds. It’s lively, local, and a bit more off-the-beaten-path, which makes it feel like you’re getting a true taste of Parisian life. We stayed near a metro station and were at Champs-Élysées in about 30 minutes.
For more accommodation recommendations, we’ve included over 10 top places to stay, catering to different budgets and travel styles, in our Explore Paris Travel Guide!
Final Thoughts
In this blog, we’ve covered the ultimate 2-day Paris itinerary, highlighting must-see landmarks, where to grab delicious meals, and the best areas to stay. Plus, we’ve broken down all the costs so you can easily budget your time and money for an unforgettable two days in Paris!
If you’re looking for even more tips to maximize your trip, our Explore Paris Travel Guide is the perfect next step. This 24-page digital guide is packed with everything you need to dive deeper into the City of Lights:
- Money-Saving Tips: Discover smart ways to stretch your budget in Paris.
- Packing Guide: Be fully prepared with our packing essentials.
- Navigating Paris: Learn the easiest and most affordable ways to get around the city.
- 25+ Must-See Attractions: Explore the top sights, including plenty of free options.
- 10+ Dining Spots: Savor Parisian cuisine at our favorite restaurants.
- 10+ Accommodation Options: From budget-friendly to boutique, find the perfect place to stay.
- Sample 4-Day Itinerary: Take the guesswork out of planning with our pre-made itinerary.
The Explore Paris Travel Guide is organized by budget, so you can truly See the World, Save a Dollar!
Ready to experience more of Paris? Grab your digital copy of the Explore Paris Travel Guide!
