Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – Transportation, hotels, restaurants + What to See and Do

Paris, the City of Light. As the world’s most visited tourist destination, the French capital is one of mankind’s most celebrated cities, renowned for its rich history, iconic architecture and top-class. Starting with the “classics” everyone wants to see, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe or the Notre Dame Cathedral, one doesn’t have to go too far to find the Paris of movies and tv shows. One where all random streets seem to have a cinematic charm to them, with historic neighborhoods, classic beige façades, artists showcasing their work outside and couples strolling hand in hand along the Seine.

However, and just like every other big city, Paris is a complex place. It is neither the idyllic dream portrayed in in the 19^th and 20^th centuries, nor the overrated and dangerous place some claim it has recently become. Paris may not be black or white, but it certainly isn’t gray. If the City of Light has captured the hearts of millions, perhaps it can steal a piece of yours too.

That being said, we invite you to have a look at our Paris 3-day travel guide and discover the best the city has to offer, including hotels, restaurants, tips to avoid tourist scams and even a detailed list with everything you must see and do in Paris in 3 days.

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide

How to get to Paris – Flights from the UK

Unsurprisingly, given its status as a record-shattering tourist destination, Paris is served by no less than 4 international airports: the Charles de Gaulle Airport, the Orly Airport, Beauvais–Tillé Airport and the Vatry Airport.

As such, if you’re traveling from the UK, it is possible to fly directly to Paris from the following cities:

• Charles de Gaulle: London–Heathrow (British Airways and Air France), Guernsey (Aurigny), East Midlands (Eastern Airways), Southampton (Eastern Airways), Belfast (Easyjet), Birmingham (Easyjet and Air France), Bristol (Easyjet), Edinburgh (Easyjet and Air France), Glasgow (Easyjet), Liverpool (Easyjet), London-Gatwick (Easyjet), London-Luton (Easyjet), London-Southend (Easyjet), Manchester (Easyjet and Air France) and Newcastle Upon Tyne (Easyjet and Air France)
• Orly: London–Heathrow (Vueling), London–Gatwick (Vueling), Bristol (Easyjet), Manchester (Easyjet) and Edinburgh (Transavia)
• Beauvais: Belfast (Ryanair), Birmingham (Ryanair), Edinburgh (Ryanair), Manchester (Ryanair) and Leeds/Bradford (Ryanair)

How many days do I need to visit Paris?

Considering just how close and easy-to-access Paris really is, any time you choose to spend in the City of Light will always be deemed worth it. Besides, even if you don’t get to visit everything you want, it’s all the more reason to comeback one day! That being said, and whether you only go for a weekend getaway or a full one-week itinerary, there’s always a way to enjoy Paris regardless of how much (or little) time you have.

On the other hand, factor in a couple extra days if you wish to throw in a few day trips into the mix – such as the usual suspects of Versailles and Disneyland.

Paris 3-day travel guide – Best time to visit the city

Not a lot of wiggle room to be creative here! Considering the city is located in Western Europe, Spring, Summer and Fall are definitely the most sought-after months when it comes to booking a trip to Paris, with the period between May and September standing out as the most researched. However, keep in mind Summer months can at times feel quite hot in the French capital, and accommodation prices will be through the roof!

That said, you may choose to visit during shoulder-season, when temperatures tend to be more pleasant, the streets less crowded and the prices less heavy on the wallet. On the other hand, for a budget-friendlier experience, Winter isn’t a bad time to visit Paris either. While it’s true you might have to be lucky with the weather, Paris isn’t any less charming on a rainy day.

Documents needed for your trip to Paris

Since France is part of the EU, British citizens do not need a visa to visit. You’ll just need your passport, which must have been issued within the last 10 years and remain valid for at least 6 months from the date of your trip.

However, keep in mind that starting in 2025, British passengers will need to apply for ETIAS in order to enter any EU country.

Paris 3-day travel guide – Withdrawals, banking fees and travel budget

With the Euro (€) as France’s official currency, any withdrawal using a UK bank card might incur in the payment of several different fees. Besides the percentual fee referring to the currency conversion, some UK banks may also charge a flat commission for withdrawals made outside the UK. In some instances, you may well end up paying 5%-6% of your original withdrawal in banking fees.

On the other hand, exchanging money before your trip is not a viable solution either. Besides not being any cheaper, it’s also not safe or wise to carry so much money on you during your trip. As such, we recommend using the services of online banking fintech companies such as Revolut, N26 or Monzo.

Although each have their own limitations and fees, they allow you to withdraw a certain amount in foreign currency without any fees involved. And even after that threshold is reached, costs are much smaller when compared to traditional banks. Sign up for Revolut for free >> to get 3 months of Premium.

Paris 3-day travel guide – Common scams and frauds

Although Paris seems to have recently developed a reputation as a sort-of-dangerous type of place, the truth is that the French capital is a perfectly safe city. After all, with 12 million residents and 40 million annual visitors, any place is bound to have some challenges! As with any big (or small) city, it’s important to always use common sense and keep your wits about you. That means no taxis whose drivers refuse to start the meter, no accepting help from strangers when you’re using an ATM or trying to buy metro tickets and always keeping an eye out for your stuff when you’re walking through busy areas (especially around trains stations and major tourist attractions). To sum up: don’t do anything you wouldn’t feel comfortable doing anywhere else!

While Paris does have its fair share of rundown areas, as a tourist you are very unlikely to even get anywhere near these districts. Therefore, your main risk will be scammers and tots, the same as any city with this much tourism. The advice is always the same: the more you engage, the greater the chance that things won’t go too well for you! Simply ignore any suspicious approaches and don’t engage with activities that are illegal or too good to be true (like the traditional shell games, where you have to guess under which cup the scammer hides the ball). This doesn’t mean you can’t interact with anyone or need to be constantly on high alert—just take basic precautions to avoid becoming a target.

Regarding specific scams in Paris (apart from the shell game), it’s quite common to find groups trying to “sell” bracelets near tourist areas. Especially around Sacré Coeur, these groups usually stand on the basilica’s staircase and try to attach the trinkets to the wrists of passers-by. These bracelets have a faulty mechanism that makes removing them tougher than you’d expect, so “sellers” will coerce you to pay for the item while you struggle to take it off. In these cases, if you get caught off guard, the best thing to do is to keep walking and threaten to call the police. The whole thing can be quite uncomfortable and borderline intimidating, as the group will most likely try to surround you, but it’s important not to give in and not pay a thing – otherwise, you are rewarding and perpetuating an illegal practice. The same goes for fake charity collectors, another common practice in many other European hotspots. Unless the volunteers are properly identified, the likelihood of it being just another scheme to extract money from unsuspecting tourists is extremely high.

Finally, we recommend being especially cautious when ordering in restaurants located in touristy areas. Always make sure to check the price on the menu before ordering, otherwise, you might get an unpleasant surprise when the bill arrives! The same applies to burlesque/cabaret shows in the Pigalle and Montmartre areas. If the prices for the show seem weirdly affordable, brace yourself for outrageously overpriced menus!

Where to sleep in Paris – Best places to stay

If you’re looking out for a place to stay on our Paris 3-day travel guide then we got you covered!

To the surprise of exactly 0 people, Paris is the kind of place where accommodation will take up a big chunk of your travel budget. Although prices were never low to begin with, the last few years have seen room rates skyrocket to downright absurd numbers, even in less central and downright seedier areas.

That being said, it’s important to know what the best areas to stay in Paris are. Formed by the famous 20 arrondissements, the name given to the different administrative Parisian districts, we’re here to help you figure where to stay, based on criteria such as location, safety, atmosphere and budget.

1st Arrondissement

Ideal for first-time visitors to Paris and inexperienced travelers alike, the 1st Arrondissement is a safe bet. Here, you’ll find major landmarks such as the Louvre, the Palais Royal or the Jardin des Tuileries, as well as a significant part of the Île de la Cité, home to the Sainte-Chapelle and – more importantly – to the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. Plus, within a 3 km radius, you’ll be close to nearly all of Paris’s must-see attractions.

At the end of the day, if you prefer to explore the city on foot rather than relying on public transport, this is one of the most central districts in Paris. However, convenience comes at a cost in the French capital, which is why accommodation prices are usually quite high.

• € – Apartments WS Louvre – Saint-Roch
• €€ – La Dépendance
• €€€ – L’Empire Paris
• €€€€ – Hôtel Mayfair Paris

2º Arrondissement

Yet another central option, the 2nd Arrondissement doesn’t lag behind its predecessor when it comes to accessibility and convenience. Although the district itself doesn’t feature any major tourist attractions, you’re just a short walk from Paris’s key sights. Once again, though, rates will leave a dent on your wallet, since this is one of the city’s most expensive arrondissements.

On the bright side, the atmosphere couldn’t be any better. With its countless bars, cafés and restaurants, all infused with that quintessential Parisian charm, the 2nd arrondissement offers an excellent base for those wishing to see the Paris that people often imagine and see on postcards.

• € – Hotel Zora
• €€ – Hotel Ile de France Opéra
• €€€ – Hôtel Gramont
• €€€€ – Edouard 7 Paris Opéra

Le Marais

Split across the 3rd and 4th Arrondissements, Le Marais is one of Paris’s most charming and popular neighborhoods, straddling along the Seine River. Although a bit farther from the options mentioned earlier, it still offers a wonderful, central location. Additionally, if you need to use public transportation, you’ll find multiple metro stations and the major station of Les Halles, one of the best-connected transit hubs in Paris.

Le Marais is the Paris you see in period films. The Paris of old, with its narrow streets and quaint shops. A part of the city that boasts fully pedestrian areas, pastel-colored buildings, street gardens and monumental squares. In essence, the quintessential Parisian vibe all visitors seek to experience! However, and this will be the case for most of the segment, prices in Le Marais are substantially higher compared to other areas.

• € – Studio Beaubourg Marais
• €€ – Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais
• €€€ – Charles V
• €€€€ – Goralska Résidences Hôtel Paris Bastille

Quartier Latin

The name given to the 5th Arrondissement, the Quartier Latin is the bohemian heart of Paris, as well as the home to the prestigious Sorbonne University. As such, you can expect the classic student district vibe, with numerous bars, affordable restaurants, tiny bookstores and a lively atmosphere. Furthermore, the Quartier Latin also hosts several popular attractions, including the Panthéon, the Musée de Cluny and the Grande Mosquée de Paris.

Unlike every other arrondissement mentioned thus far, the Quartier Latin is known for offering more affordable accommodation options… at least compared to the Parisian average!

• € – Hotel Beauvoir
• €€ – Hotel Design Sorbonne
• €€€ – Seven Hotel
• €€€€ – Hôtel Parc Saint-Séverin – Esprit de France

6th Arrondissement

More popularly referred to as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the 6th Arrondissement is Paris’s original bohemian district. While today is a pretty exclusive location, this was once a major place for philosophers, artists and writers, who gathered here to debate the state of the French nation. The artists may be long gone but at least you can still visit the historic cafés, hailed as some of the city’s most classic and beloved. As for tourist attractions, this district is home to the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg.

With an excellent location that will allow you to easily walk between most sites – between the Quartier Latin and the popular 7th Arrondissement – you already know what the only downside will be: money, money, money!

• € – Hotel Du Dragon
• €€ – Hôtel Eugénie
• €€€ – Dauphine Saint Germain
• €€€€ – Hôtel Da Vinci & Spa

7th Arrondissement

Arguably the most iconic of Paris’s 20 districts, this is where you’ll find the world-famous Eiffel Tower, France’s biggest symbol. Plus, there are plenty of other “must-sees” in the 7th Arrondissement, such as the Musée d’Orsay and the Hôtel des Invalides, while sites like the Alexandre III Bridge, the Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées or the Arc de Triomphe are all within walking distance. In short, a district that excels in convenience and accessibility.

However, it is also the most touristy district in the French capital, meaning hotel prices are some of the highest in Paris. Besides, heavy crowds and endless hordes of other tourists are pretty much a staple.

• € – Hôtel Malar
• €€ – Hôtel Derby Eiffel
• €€€ – Alberte Hôtel
• €€€€ – Hôtel Saint Germain

8th Arrondissement

Yet another emblematic district, the 8th Arrondissement is definitely one of the most central in all of Paris, allowing visitors to walk to most of the city’s top attractions (with a few notable exceptions). Located just north of the 7th Arrondissement, it is also home to iconic sites like the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées.

Unfortunately, and along with the 6th and 7th Arrondissements, this one is also part of the podium when it comes to the most expensive districts in Paris. Want to stay here? Then get ready to pay for it!

• € – Elysées Hôtel
• €€ – Atlantic Hotel
• €€€ – Hotel Monsieur & Spa
• €€€€ – Le A

9th Arrondissement

Regarded as the oldest Red Light District in Paris, the 9th Arrondissement is still a major hub for nightlife, though it has evolved into a more “family-friendly” area. Therefore, you’ll find a wide range of bars, restaurants and nightclubs around the block. Furthermore, its location is also a big plus, offering easy walking access to most attractions on the north bank of the Seine, (including Montmartre).

Although it may not be as clean or pristine as some of the more tourist-heavy arrondissements, Pigalle (its other name) provides some of the best value for accommodation in central Paris. Definitely worth a look!

• € – Walled off Hotel Paris
• €€ – Timhotel Opéra Blanche Fontaine
• €€€ – Les Matins de Paris & Spa
• €€€€ – Hotel Touraine Opera

Canal Saint-Martin

For those on a tighter budget, the area around Canal Saint-Martin offers some great accommodation options. This scenic waterway runs through the 10th, 11th and 19th Arrondissements, passing through several residential neighborhoods. It’s a quieter, more relaxed part of the city, perfect for those who are happy to swap the convenience of central locations for a more authentic and budget-friendly stay.

Moreover, the Canal Saint-Martin area is well connected to the rest of Paris via the metro system and plays host to both the Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est, two of the city’s main train stations.

• € – Verlain
• €€ – Deskopolitan House
• €€€ – Hôtel Les Deux Girafes
• €€€€ – Hôtel Fabric

Montmartre

Finally, we cap off our list of the best areas to stay in Paris with Montmartre, one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods. Located in the 18th Arrondissement, Montmartre ranks among the most romantic parts of Paris, besides boasting a pretty unique medieval architecture. With its narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets, it stands in stark contrast to the imperial grandeur you’ll see in the rest of the French capital.

The main downside is its distance from some of the major tourist spots, though you can easily take the metro and get to the most central arrondissements in no time. Even so, Montmartre (and its extraordinary Sacré-Coeur) remains one of the most charming places to stay in Paris!

• € – Angleterre Hotel
• €€ – Odalys City Paris Montmartre
• €€€ – Mercure Paris Pigalle Sacre Coeur
• €€€€ – Manolita Paris

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – Transportation between the airports and the city center

From Paris Charles de Gaulle to the city center

Regarded as the most important air hub in the French capital, the best way to travel between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris city center is by using line B from the RER system, a suburban railway network. These vehicles operate daily between 04h50 and 00h50, with a new train coming in every 10 to 15 minutes. Since this specific line spans almost 50 different stations, you can choose to get out at different areas of the city. Be that as it may, the most convenient stops for those staying in the center are Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les-Halles, Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame, Luxembourg, Port Royal and Denfert-Rochereau. Depending on your destination, the total trip may take about 25 to 35 minutes. Regarding prices, fares for trips between the airport and the most central arrondissements are currently capped at 11,00€. You can get your ticket from any of the automatic machines inside the airports’ stations, which are located inside terminals 2 and 3. If you happen to land on terminal 1, you can hop inside the CDGVAL Airport Shuttle, a free transportation system that connects the airport’s different terminals.

On the other hand, if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or are in a hurry, you may simply rely on a direct shuttle service. You have two options: RoissyBus and Terravision. You have shuttle buses leaving every 15 to 30 minutes between 05h15 and 00h30. For Terravision, tickets cost €15,00 one-way and the bus will drop you off at Porte de Clichy. You can buy your tickets online directly from the company’s official website. As for RoissyBus, the bus will take you all the way to Palais Garnier for €16,00 one-way. In this case, you can get your ticket inside the bus, from any of the airport’s automatic machines or through Ile-de-France Mobilités app.

From Paris-Orly to the city center

The second most important airport in the city – with a staggering 30 million passengers every year – Paris-Orly just got a brand-new metro station, inaugurated for the 2024 Olympics. This station is now part of line 14, allowing you to travel between the airport and Saint-Denis-Pleyel. On the way, you can get out in stations such as Gare de Lyon, Châtelet ou Saint-Lazare (among many others), since all of these are conveniently connected to other metro lines and to the expansive RER network, helping you get to wherever you need to be in the city. Regardless of your destination, tickets are currently priced at €11,50. Before the metro, though, the best way to travel between Paris-Orly and the city center was to combine the OrlyVal with line B of the RER system. The former is a special self-driving metropolitan that connects the airports’ terminals to Antony station, where you can then transfer to a train heading downtown. Since this is the exact same line that is also used for those arriving through CDG, the most convenient stations are the ones we’ve shared above (Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les-Halles, Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame, Luxembourg, Port Royal and Denfert-Rochereau). The total trip might take between 35 and 45 minutes, and the combo ticket OrlyVal + RER B will set you back €14,50. This option is available every single day from 06h00 to 23h35.

Alternatively, if you don’t feel comfortable with the transfers, you may simply hop on an OrlyBus. This shuttle bus will drop you off at Place Denfert-Rochereau in just 30 minutes, with a new vehicle leaving every 15 minutes between 05h35 and 00h30. Tickets cost €11,20 and can be purchased inside the bus, from any of the airport’s automatic machines or through Ile-de-France Mobilités app. Lastly, and by far the cheapest option, you can take line 7 of the local tram system (there’s a station at the airport) and get out at Villejuif-Louis Aragon (terminus). Since the latter is directly connected to the metro system (curiously, also through line 7), you just need to transfer to the subway. The most central stops along this line are located between Pont Marie and Gare de l’Est. Since you can use the same ticket for both the tram and the metro, the trip will cost you a meager €2,15. On the other hand, this is also the most time-consuming option – about 90 minutes to get to the city center!

From Paris-Beauvais to the city center

By far the least important airport in Paris (if we don’t include the tiny one in Vatry), Paris-Beauvais is still the main Ryanair hub in the French capital. However, keep in mind this airport is located over 100 km away from the city center, so make sure to factor in some extra time for the commute. Be that as it may, the best way to travel between Beauvais and Paris is to use of one of the many airport shuttles, with the airport’s management running its very own lines! Currently, there are three routes to choose from:

• A01 Beauvais Airport – Paris Porte Maillot
• A02 Beauvais Airport – Saint-Denis Université
• A03 Beauvais Airport – Paris La Défense

Aside from these three, there’s also line A05, heading directly to Disneyland Paris. These shuttles operate between 08h00 and 23h30, with a new bus leaving every 15 minutes for each route. The trip to the city center takes about 1h30 and tickets cost €16,90. You can book your seat online.

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – Public transportation

Unsurprisingly, given just how big, busy and popular Paris is, the French capital is properly equipped with an efficient and diverse public transportation system, allowing visitors to reach virtually every suburb of the city. While trains may not always be on time, strikes are fairly common and the cleanliness not up to everyone’s standards (especially when compared to Germanic and Scandinavian counterparts), you can still find a way to get anywhere you want!

That being said, the City of Lights is served by a metro system, as well as by a vast and complex network of buses, trams and suburban trains (called RER), so it’s definitely worth getting a quick overview of how public transportation works in Paris.

Paris Metro – Maps, Tickets and Times

Made up of 14 different lines spread across over 300 stations/stops, the metro system in Paris is essential to the city’s urban mobility. Not only does it cover the most central districts and other popular arrondissements among tourists, but you can also use the metro to reach the outskirts of Paris. This is particularly useful for those staying far away from the city center due to budget constraints. Plus, the system is integrated into Google Maps, meaning the platform will provide you with real-time information on which line to take and where to catch it to reach your destination.

As for running times, the metro operates every day between 05h30 and 01h00, extending to 02h00 on Friday and Saturday evenings. Waiting times range between 2 and 12 minutes, depending on the line and the time of day.

Regular tickets are called T+ Tickets and allow you to travel between any two stations (transfers included) within a 90-minute timeframe. You can get this paper ticket at any automatic machine or sales booth for €2,15. Just make sure to always validate your ticket when you board, otherwise you might get fined! Alternatively, you may simply get a Navigo Travel Card or a Navigo Easy Pass (these physical cards cost €2,00) and top them up with as many trips as you want, instead of buying separate individual paper tickets. Even better – just download the Île-de-France Mobilités app, get your digital Navigo card for free through the platform, top it up with a T+ Ticket and use your smartphone as a ticket. If you use the app, you can also buy a bundle of 10 individual trips for €17,35 (€1,735 per ticket).

Keep in mind all these tickets are equally valid on trams, RER (suburban trains) or buses. However, you’ll have to keep in mind what zones you’ll be crossing along your trip, since the T+ Ticket is only valid on zones 1 and 2 of the Paris public transportation system. Luckily, pretty much every single metro station and major tourist attraction is located within these two zones. The only exceptions are the Palace of Versailles and Disneyland (as well as the OrlyVal line), which all require different tickets since they’re located outside zones 1 and 2. For these, the T+ Ticket is not valid.

Daily and weekly transportation passes in Paris

If you arrive between Monday and Thursday: Navigo Week Pass

1.You can obtain this pass at the ticket counters of Paris public transportation services (SNCF or RATP). These counters are available at the Charles de Gaulle Airport (in the TGV/RER station store), at Orly Airport (next to the OrlyBus stop) and at several different metro stations throughout the city. You cannot buy this pass from vending machines. To load this pass onto a physical card, first you’ll need to purchase either a Navigo Travel Card or a Navigo Easy Travel Card, both of which cost €2,00.

Alternatively, you can purchase the travel card via this app. If you have a smartphone (whether Android or Apple), you can get the card, top it up with the pass and scan it directly to validate your ticket every time you enter a metro, tram or bus. Unlike the physical card, the digital Navigo card is free of charge (you only pay for the pass).

2. Although this is a weekly pass, its incredibly low price of €30,75 for unlimited public transport within Paris’s 5 zones (which includes Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports as well as Disneyland) makes it a no-brainer. For comparison, the Paris Visite Pass for 1 day and 5 zones costs €29,25.

3. On the other hand, and even though it’s a weekly pass, it’s not valid for a full 7 days, but rather from Monday to Sunday. This means you’ll pay the same whether you use it from Monday to Sunday or from Thursday to Sunday. So, if your trip starts on a Thursday and ends on a Tuesday, you’ll need to buy the weekly pass twice. In that case, you should consider which option is more cost-effective for you.

4. Finally, keep in mind that if you load the card on a Friday, it won’t be usable until the following Monday. To use it over the weekend, you’ll need to load it by the previous Thursday.

If you arrive between Friday and Sunday: Passe Paris Visite

1.Similar to the Navigo pass (valid for public transport within the designated zones, excluding the Orlyval), but without restrictions when it comes to specific days you need to top up your pass.

2. It’s available from automatic machines.

3. It is more expensive than the Navigo. For instance, a 3-day ticket covering 3 zones (central Paris) costs €30,90 for an adult and €15,45 for a child (ages 4-11). The 5-zone pass for the same duration is priced at €62,30 for an adult and €31,15 for a child.

RER – Suburban trains in Paris

Though not as prominent among visitors, Paris’s suburban trains (called “RER”) are a crucial part of the city’s transport network, connecting the central arrondissements with the city’s most populous suburbs. However, even for tourists, the RER is particularly handy if you’re staying in the outskirts or planning to visit the Palace of Versailles or the iconic Disneyland Paris. For some quick facts, the RER system consists of 5 distinct lines (A, B, C, D and E) and over 250 stations, with trains running from 05h00 to 0h30. Just like the metro, the RER is also fully integrated into Google Maps.

Regarding fares, the principle is also similar: you can purchase T+ Tickets for individual rides or use one of the intermodal passes mentioned above. As previously noted, you’ll need to consider the number of zones you’ll be crossing during your journey and choose your pass or individual ticket accordingly. If your trip stays within zones 1 and 2, whether you’re using the RER, metro, tram or bus, the €2,15 T+ Ticket will be enough. However, if you’re taking a suburban train that crosses additional zones, you’ll need to buy a different ticket from the automatic machines (or ticket counters) at the station, specifying your departure and destination stations. The fare will be automatically calculated based on your starting point.

Naturally, prices will differ depending on the zones covered, ranging from €3,20 (zone 1 to zone 3), €4,15 (zone 1 to zone 4 – Versailles), and €5,00 (zone 1 to zone 5 – Disneyland Paris). The latter is the maximum fare for any RER trip.

Paris 3-day Travel Guide – Free walking tours

While in Paris, you have the option to explore the city with a free walking tour. These tours, led by local guides or tour companies, offer guided visits to the historic center, sharing intriguing stories about each place and providing valuable cultural context. Even though these tours are technically free, it’s customary to show appreciation for the guide’s efforts by leaving a tip at the end. In Paris, a reasonable minimum tip would be around €10,00.

That being said, here are a few companies that run free walking tours in Paris:

• Discover Walks
• Walkative!
• Sandeman’s New Europe

Paris 3-day Travel Guide – Hidden Treasures

While it may be tight, with 3 full days in Paris you’ll have just enough time to cover the city’s main highlights. Still, if you’re keen on making some quick detours, it’s still possible to at least check out a handful of places that might otherwise fly under the radar.

That being said, and because we believe a good traveler must always be able to explore beyond the obvious, we wanted to add a few more obscure places to your list of things to see and do in Paris in 3 days:

Père Lachaise Cemetery: A strikingly beautiful site with its monumental tombs and different memorials, Père Lachaise is the largest and most visited cemetery in Paris. Beyond its uncommon beauty for a place of this kind, the cemetery is also famous for serving as the final resting place for some of the most renowned figures in French and world culture, including Frédéric Chopin, Édith Piaf, Marcel Proust, Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison.

Paris Catacombs: Though they are no longer as obscure as they once were, many visitors are still unaware of this fascinating underground necropolis hidden beneath the streets of Paris. In total, the catacombs hold the remains of an estimated 6 million people, a consequence of the overcrowded cemeteries in the 18th century. It’s a unique and incredibly intriguing site to explore.

Galeries Lafayette: As one of the world’s premier shopping and fashion destinations, it comes as no surprise that Paris is home to one of the most stunning department stores you’ll ever see. A true wonder of Art Nouveau, the shops are almost secondary when you look at this place, whose architectural and decor elements will have you feeling like you’ve just stepped into an old imperial palace. To top it off, you can visit the terrace on the eighth floor for one of the best views in Paris!

Marché des Enfants Rouges: Possibly the most remarkable covered market in Paris, this hidden treasure is nestled in the heart of the Les Marais district. Here, you’ll find a bit of everything, from traditional fruit and vegetable stalls to spaces representing some of the city’s best-known restaurants, bistros and bakeries. It’s the perfect spot for a quick snack or to pick up a light, portable dinner to enjoy later in the day

Covered Passages of Paris: A mix of classic and industrial design, Paris’s covered passages were built in the late 18th century and were among the very first shopping arcades in the city. During their prime, nearly 200 passages were scattered across the French capital, though only a little more than two dozen remain today. Among the 25 that are still open to the public, Galeries Colbert and Vivienne, as well as the Passages du Grand Cerf, des Panoramas and Jouffroy, rank among the most beautiful.

Canal Saint-Martin: Spanning nearly 5 km and crossing through three different arrondissements, this expansive canal connects the Seine to the Canal de l’Ourcq. Because this area is more residential than touristy, the atmosphere along the canal is more relaxed and authentic than you might be used to when visiting Paris, making it one of the best spots for a walk in the city.

Arènes de Lutèce: Accidentally discovered in 1870, these ruins of an ancient Roman arena are nearly 2000 years old and were a pretty important archaeological find. Remarkably, the site is completely open to the public, allowing you to explore the stands and the central arena at your leisure. It’s almost hard to believe a place such as this can be located right in the heart of the bustling Latin Quarter!

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – What to See and Do in 72 Hours

As mentioned above, 3 days isn’t a particularly long period to explore one of the world’s most legendary cities. In between all the amazing things to see and do and all the queues you’ll have to line to get there, you’ll need to plan everything out quite thoroughly. Still, and with a full 72 hours in the City of Lights, you can climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, stroll along the enchanting streets of the Champs-Elysées, Montmartre and Les Marais, visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, appreciate the quintessential Mona Lisa at the Louvre and go on a quick getaway to the Palace of Versailles. Demanding, yes, but also extremely rewarding! If you have a couple extra days to spare, we also recommend paying a visit to the unique Disneyland Paris – the happiest place on Earth!

Without further ado, here’s what to see and do in Paris in 3 days:

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – Day 1: Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe

The City of Love, the City of Light – Paris has been called many names throughout the centuries, but none fully capture all the magic this city holds! Every year, millions of visitors flock to Paris, consistently ranking it among the world’s most coveted travel destinations. Could it be any different? As the cradle of the French Revolution and the Age of Enlightenment, they say what happens in Paris (and France) sooner or later spreads into the rest of Europe, giving the French capital a unique aura that helps make it one of the world’s most influential cultural, artistic, commercial, scientific and gastronomic hubs (not to mention a top tourist destination). That said, and to kick off your first day in Paris, there’s no better place to start than with the city’s most iconic landmark: the Eiffel Tower. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair, the tower was originally intended to be dismantled after 20 years because of how starkly it contrasted with the city’s classical architecture (a design choice that drew plenty of criticism). However, fate had different plans, and the Eiffel Tower became nearly synonymous with Paris itself, ultimately becoming the most visited paid attraction in the world. Can you imagine Paris today without it? To get the best view of the “Iron Lady”, start at the Trocadéro, where you can capture the quintessential Paris postcard photo. If you’re planning to ascend to the top observation deck, which stands at 276 meters, you’ll need a ticket. There are several options available, depending on how high you want to go and whether you prefer to take the stairs or the lift. Tickets to the second-floor cost €14,20 if you choose the stairs and €26,90 for the lift. If you’re aiming for the very top, the price goes up to €22,60 for the stairs and €35,30 for the lift. Regardless of your choice, buying tickets online is highly recommended to save time.

Back on solid ground, you’ll then take a stroll through the Champ-de-Mars before heading to the Hôtel National des Invalides (€15,00). Originally built as a hospital for war veterans, the complex now houses several military museums. However, the highlight is undoubtedly the Eglise du Dôme des Invalides, the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte. From here, cross the Seine via the Alexandre III Bridge – widely regarded as the most beautiful bridge in Paris – and officially enter the 8th Arrondissement. This district is one of Paris’s most popular, where you can admire the architecture of the Grand Palais and visit the expansive Place de la Concorde, the historic square where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were guillotined during the French Revolution. Smacked right in the middle of the square you’ll also find an authentic Egyptian obelisk. While in the same arrondissement, a walk down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées is a must. Known as one of the world’s most famous shopping streets, prices around the area are absolutely absurd, although you don’t have to pay a dime to wander around and admire the extraordinary architecture. On a sidenote, the Champs-Élysées hosts the largest military parade in Europe, celebrating the storming of the Bastille during the French Revolution on July 14^th! Since your day began with Paris’s most iconic symbol, it’s only fitting to end it with another legendary landmark: the Arc de Triomphe! Located at the end of the Champs-Élysées, this monumental arch was commissioned to celebrate Napoleon’s victory at the Battle of Austerlitz (arguably its most impressive military prowess) and honors those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. In fact, when examining the arch more thoroughly, you’ll find the inscriptions of all the locations/cities where France won important battles, as well as the names of the generals who led them. While you can admire the Arc de Triomphe and walk through it for free, a ticket (€16,00) is required to climb to the top for one of the best views in Paris.

First day wrap-up:

• Trocadéro
• Eiffel Tower
• Champ-de-Mars
• Hôtel National des Invalides
• Alexandre III Bridge
• Grand Palais
• Place de la Concorde
• Avenue des Champs-Elysées
• Arc de Triomphe

Where to eat in Paris – Best restaurants in the 7^th and 8^th arrondissements

• Le Relais de Venise (French traditional)
• Bistrot Médaillon (French traditional)
• La Pause Libanaise (Lebanese)
• La Pâte à Nouilles (Chinese)
• Capriccio (Italian)
• The Freedom Pub (British)
• La Crêperie (crepes and galettes)
• Oh My Poke! (poke bowls)
• Le Café du Coin (varied)
• The French Bastards – Sèvres (croissants)
• Maison Lucie (croissants)
• Ladurée (patisserie – macarons)

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – Day 2: Latin Quarter, Notre-Dame and the Louvre

Although you’ve already explored iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, there’s easily a handful of other legendary places waiting to be discovered. On your second day in the city, you’ll start off with a visit to the Catacombs of Paris (€29,00, tickets only available online), a location far removed from the imperial and classical beauty of the City of Lights. Though they are no longer as obscure as they once were, many visitors are still unaware of this fascinating underground necropolis hidden beneath the streets of Paris. In total, the catacombs hold the remains of an estimated 6 million people, a consequence of the overcrowded cemeteries in the 18th century. It’s a unique and incredibly intriguing site to explore. Back on the surface, it’s time to visit Paris’s most beautiful park. A monumental area featuring a palace, numerous classical sculptures, an artificial lake and the magnificent Medici Fountain, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the most popular green space in the city, particularly among tourists. Nearby, you can also explore the lively Latin Quarter, known as Paris’s bohemian heart. Home to the renowned Sorbonne University and other higher-education institutions, this area is perfect for those seeking trendy bars and affordable bistros where students spend their time. Among the district’s many worthy spots, the standout attraction is the extraordinary Pantheon (€13,00), the final resting place of some of France’s most celebrated figures, including Marie and Pierre Curie, Rousseau, Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Saint-Exupéry, Dumas and Louis Braille. Still in the Latin Quarter, don’t miss the Arènes de Lutèce, one of Paris’s best hidden treasures. Accidentally discovered in 1870, these ruins of an ancient Roman arena are nearly 2000 years old and were a pretty important archaeological find. Remarkably, the site is completely open to the public, allowing you to explore the stands and the central arena at your leisure. It’s almost hard to believe a place such as this can be located right in the heart of the bustling Latin Quarter!

Next up, cross the Seine to visit the Île de la Cité, the small islet that is home to the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral. One of the world’s most famous churches, known for its Gothic architecture, historical significance (Napoleon was crowned Emperor here) and cultural influence (thanks to “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame”), the cathedral is currently closed for restoration following the devastating 2019 fire. Thankfully, renovations are progressing well, with plans to reopen to the public in December 2024. While on the island, be sure to visit the stunning Sainte-Chapelle (€13,00), a small royal chapel with some of the most breathtaking stained-glass windows you’ll ever see. Crossing to the north bank, it’s time to explore the elegant district of Le Marais, one of the most picturesque areas in the French capital, centered around the majestic Place des Vosges. For your much deserved lunch break, head to the Marché des Enfants Rouges, one of the most spectacular covered markets in the city. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk through the Jardin des Tuileries before visiting the Louvre Museum (€22,00). Perhaps the most famous museum in the world, the institution is home to some of the most prominent works of art, including the Venus de Milo, The Coronation of Napoleon, Liberty Leading the People and the Seated Scribe. And no, we didn’t forget about da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. As the day winds down, make your way to the grand Palais Garnier (€15,00), one of the most prestigious opera houses on the planet (the building truly is a work of beauty), before capping off your day at the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. A true wonder of Art Nouveau, the shops are almost secondary when you look at this place, whose architectural and decor elements will have you feeling like you’ve just stepped into an old imperial palace. To top it off, you can visit the terrace on the eighth floor for one of the best views in Paris!

Second day wrap-up:

• Catacombs of Paris
• Jardin du Luxembourg
• Latin Quarter
• Pantheon
• Arènes de Lutèce
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Sainte-Chapelle
• Le Marais
• Place des Vosges
• Marché des Enfants Rouges
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Louvre
• Palais Garnier
• Galleries Lafayette Haussman

Where to eat in Paris – Best restaurants in the 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd and 5^th arrondissements

• Bistrot Victoires (French traditional)
• Bouillon Chartier (French traditional)
• Bouillon Julien (French traditional)
• Le Blainville (French traditional)
• Breizh Café (crepes and galettes)
• Pizza Roma (Italian)
• Bistro Mee (Korean)
• L’As du Fallafel (falafel)
• Marché des Enfants Rouges (market)
• La Maison d’Isabelle (croissants)
• Maison Landemaine Beaumarchais (croissants)
• Odette (patisserie – choux)

Paris 3-Day Travel Guide – Day 3: Versailles and Montmartre

Now that you’ve explored pretty much all the iconic sights in central Paris, it’s time to venture into the suburbs for a morning visit to the grand Palace of Versailles, one of Europe’s most famous royal residences. Commissioned in the 17th century by Louis XIV – the celebrated Sun King – Versailles set the gold standard for European palaces at the time, a reputation it still holds to this day. The estate boasts no less than 2300 rooms and 800 hectares of land, including the vast main palace, the opulent gardens, the secondary palaces and the royal stables. Furthermore, this is a fundamental place to understand the extravagant lifestyle of French royalty, which stood in stark contrast to the widespread poverty that eventually fueled the French Revolution of 1789, during which the palace was stormed and looted. Today, millions of visitors flock to explore Versailles each year, with tours guiding them through the palace’s most impressive features, such as the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Apartments, the Queen’s Apartments, the Domaine de Trianon, the Royal Chapel, the Royal Opera and the Gardens of Versailles. A ticket to explore the entire estate, including the gardens and the Petit Trianon, costs €32,00. If you prefer to visit just the main palace and the park, the fare goes down to €21,00. To reach Versailles, take the RER Line C (suburban train) to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the main entrance. If you’re coming from central Paris, you can board the train at Champ de Mars, Pont de l’Alma, Invalides, Musée d’Orsay, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame or Paris Austerlitz. A one-way ticket costs €4,15.

After making it back to Paris, spend the afternoon exploring the charming district of Montmartre, often hailed as the most picturesque and romantic part of the city. Perched on a hill, this neighborhood is a maze of narrow, winding, medieval streets. Funny enough, and although Montmartre is now one of Paris’s trendiest districts, it once had a notorious reputation due to the many brothels that were once located here. Over time, though, this peculiarity became a key part of the neighborhood’s unique identity, contributing to its role in the birth of cabaret and burlesque culture. No visit to Montmartre is complete without seeing the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, which sits at the highest point of the neighborhood. With its striking white façade that seems to glow in the sunlight, this basilica is one of Paris’s most photogenic landmarks! You can reach the hilltop by taking a funicular (paid) or climbing the 300-step staircase (free). Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in Paris. Finally, to bid adieu to the City of Light before heading home, consider ending your trip with a Cruise on the Seine. While the trip is beautiful at any time of day, a nighttime cruise, when the city’s riverside landmarks are all lit up, is a particularly magical experience. There are all sorts of tours available, so you can choose one that best fits your budget and personal preferences.

Third day wrap-up:

• Palace of Versailles
• Montmartre
• Sacré-Coeur Basilica
• Seine River Cruise

Where to eat in Paris – Best restaurants near Montmartre

• Bouillon Pigalle (French traditional)
• Buvette Paris (French traditional)
• Les Darons Wine Bar (French traditional)
• La Porteña (Argentino – empanadas)
• Mama Kossa (African food)
• Sur la Route de Plouescat (crepes and galettes)
• Urfa Durum (kebab)
• Miznon Grands Boulevards (pita sandwiches)
• Carotte Bleue (varied)
• Le Grenier à Pain Abbesses Bodian (croissants)
• Carton Paris (croissants)
• Pierre Hermé (patisserie – macarons)

Optional: 2 days at Disneyland Paris

If you have a couple extra days to spare, taking a trip to Disneyland is an absolute must for both kids and adults alike! Composed of two different parks – Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios – ideally you’ll want to spend one day at each park. However, if you only have one day, we recommend focusing on Disneyland Park, where you’ll find most of the classic attractions, like Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Wars and the Buzz Lightyear’s Laser Blast. This specific park is also home to the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. To make the best of your short experience, plan to arrive right at the opening (9h30) and stay until the evening light show at the castle. For true Disney enthusiasts, one day might not feel like enough, though! The same goes if you’re traveling with children and want a calmer, more laid-back experience. In that case, two or more days would be perfect, and you can stay at one of the many hotels within the resort.

Unsurprisingly, there’s so much to say about Disneyland Paris, from transportation options from Paris to the many different ticket types (and how to buy them), as well as accommodation, top attractions, restaurants and tips on how to avoid long lines and get priority access. In fact, we could easily write an entire guide on the subject… and so we did! So, if you’re keen on visiting “The Happiest Place on Earth”, be sure to check out our detailed post covering everything you need to know before your trip to Disneyland Paris.

Read also:

Booking a Disneyland Paris themed Hotel: Our Experience at Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel

Is it worth staying at a Disneyland Hotel? Our experience at Disney Sequoia Lodge

Got more than 3 days in Paris? Then you might want to check out the best day trips from the city

Loire Valley: Renowned as one of France’s most stunning and picturesque regions, the Loire Valley is an open-air wonderland, filled to the brim with majestic palaces, vineyards, lush rolling hills and historic towns that seem to have stepped right out of a fairy tale. Among the (many) châteaux in the region, the most popular are Chambord, Chenonceau, Cheverny, Valençay and Azay-le-Rideau.

Normandy Beaches: A perfect day trip for World War II enthusiasts, visiting the northern coast of Normandy allows you to see the infamous D-Day beaches, explore the remnants of Nazi bunkers and pay your respects at the American Cemetery. It’s a long day and might not appeal to all audiences, but for history buffs, it’s a must-visit destination!

Château de Fontainebleau: Located less than 70 km away from Paris, this is an excellent option if your return flight takes place later in the day. Home to Europe’s largest palace garden, the Château de Fontainebleau is often said to rival Versailles in importance and history. Many visitors also choose to combine this visit with a trip to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, just 30 minutes away.

Reims: Right in the heart of the stunning region of Champagne, Reims is famous for its magnificent cathedral, the place where French monarchs were originally crowned. After exploring the city and its historic architecture, you’ll have time to visit at least one of the many historic vineyards in the surrounding areas.

Giverny: Known for its beautiful gardens, parks and green spaces, Giverny holds a special place in the history of French art. After all, this is where Impressionism was born, inspired by the many landscapes captured by Monet, who lived here for 40 years. Like Normandy, this day trip may not be for everyone, but it’s a must for art lovers and students.