Paris is a city where every street corner has something beautiful, historic, or delicious to discover. While a short trip doesn’t give you enough time to see everything, you can still experience the essence of Paris in 48 hours. Here’s the ultimate two-day itinerary for exploring Paris, including must-see landmarks, local dining, and a touch of the Parisian lifestyle.
Day 1: Iconic Sights and Classic Parisian Experiences

Morning: Breakfast and the Eiffel Tower
Start with a Parisian Breakfast
Begin your day like a true Parisian with a croissant and coffee at a nearby café. For an authentic experience, try Café de Flore in Saint-Germain or Café Kitsuné near the Louvre for fresh pastries and coffee.
Visit the Eiffel Tower
From your breakfast spot, head to the Eiffel Tower to get an early start and avoid the lines. Take an elevator to the top or, if you’re feeling adventurous, climb the stairs to the second level for panoramic views. Enjoy the sweeping sights of Paris from one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
Tip: If you’d like a memorable view of the Eiffel Tower, try Trocadéro Square for fantastic photo opportunities.
Late Morning: Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées
Explore the Arc de Triomphe
Take a short metro ride or walk to the Arc de Triomphe. This grand monument honors those who fought for France and offers a beautiful view of the city from the top.
Stroll Down the Champs-Élysées
Head down the Champs-Élysées, Paris’s most famous avenue. Lined with shops, theaters, and cafés, this street is perfect for window shopping or stopping at a local bakery for a quick snack.
Afternoon: Lunch and the Louvre
Enjoy a Classic French Lunch
Stop for lunch at Les Deux Magots or Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, both known for their Parisian vibe and traditional French menus. Try classic dishes like steak frites or croque-monsieur.
Discover the Louvre Museum
After lunch, head to the Louvre, one of the most famous museums in the world. Admire iconic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and Venus de Milo. Note that the Louvre is vast, so plan a few key pieces to see or take a highlights tour to make the most of your time.
Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip the lines.
Evening: Seine River Cruise and Dinner in Le Marais

Take a Seine River Cruise at Sunset
As evening falls, take a Seine River cruise for a romantic and scenic view of Paris’s landmarks from the water. Many cruises start near the Eiffel Tower or Pont Neuf and take you past sights like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Musée d'Orsay.
Dinner in Le Marais
End the day in the historic Le Marais district, known for its cobblestone streets and lively dining scene. Try Chez Janou or Les Philosophes for authentic French cuisine in a charming setting.

Day 2: Art, Local Neighborhoods, and Parisian Charm

Morning: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Explore Montmartre
Begin your second day in the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre. Wander the streets where Picasso and Monet once lived, and browse through galleries, quaint shops, and local boutiques.
Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Make your way up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which sits atop Montmartre Hill. The basilica’s terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the city, and its interior is as beautiful as its surroundings.
Late Morning: Shopping in Le Marais
Browse Le Marais’s Boutiques and Vintage Shops
Head back to Le Marais for a late-morning shopping trip. This district is known for its unique vintage stores, designer boutiques, and trendy shops.
Tip: For those interested in Jewish culture, Le Marais has a rich history with a variety of kosher bakeries, Jewish delis, and cultural sites.
Afternoon: Lunch and the Musée d’Orsay
Lunch at a Café by the Seine
Grab lunch at a café near the Seine, such as La Palette or Le Saint-Régis on Île Saint-Louis, both known for delicious food and a relaxed vibe. Enjoy a leisurely Parisian lunch while taking in the riverside views.
Visit the Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is home to an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. The museum itself is a former railway station, adding to the beauty of the experience.
Tip: The fifth floor is where you’ll find most of the famous Impressionist paintings, along with beautiful views of the Seine.
Evening: Dinner and Live Jazz
Dine at a Local Bistro
For your last evening in Paris, enjoy dinner at a local bistro like Bouillon Pigalle or Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain. Try classic French dishes like escargot, boeuf bourguignon, or duck confit.
End the Night with Jazz in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Paris has a vibrant jazz scene, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the heart of it. Head to Le Caveau de la Huchette or Duc des Lombards for a live jazz performance and a night to remember.
Final Tips for a 48-Hour Stay

Get Around Efficiently: Paris’s metro system is easy to navigate and can get you quickly from one destination to another.
Skip-the-Line Tickets: Buy tickets online for major attractions like the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Musée d’Orsay.
Stay Centrally Located: If possible, book accommodations in central neighborhoods like Le Marais, Saint-Germain, or near the Champs-Élysées to minimize travel time.
Paris has so much to offer, even in a short visit. With this itinerary, you’ll experience iconic sights, local culture, and the city’s unique charm. Enjoy your whirlwind adventure in Paris!