How to Spend One Day in Paris

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning that if you click through & make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By purchasing items through my links, it allows me to continue to create helpful free content for you to enjoy. Thank you for your support!

A Suggested Itinerary for When You Only Have One Day in Paris

Morning

Start the day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds and take in the stunning views of the city from the top.

After the Eiffel Tower, head to the Champs-Elysées for a stroll down this famous avenue. Take in the beautiful architecture and shop at high-end stores or stop by a café for a coffee and croissant.

Afternoon

Visit the Louvre Museum, which is home to some of the world’s most famous works of art, including the Mona Lisa. Be sure to allow yourself a few hours to take in as much as possible.

Take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, a beautiful garden located in the heart of Paris. The garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, and you can take in the stunning views of the Louvre Museum while you’re there.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the nearby Café de Flore, a historic cafe that has been a gathering place for writers, artists, and intellectuals since the 19th century. The cafe offers a range of classic French dishes, such as croque-monsieur and salade niçoise, as well as a range of delicious pastries and desserts.

Another great option for lunch in the area is La Palette, a charming bistro that has been serving up delicious French cuisine since the early 20th century. The restaurant’s menu features classic dishes such as escargots de Bourgogne and coq au vin, as well as a range of vegetarian options.

Evening

Take a stroll through the charming streets of Montmartre and admire the picturesque view of the city from the top of the hill. You can also visit the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy the music of street performers.

Satisfy your taste buds with some delicious French cuisine at Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy restaurant in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. Alternatively, if you prefer something more upscale, then head over to Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on the Eiffel Tower.

After dinner, you can catch a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge or visit the Eiffel Tower to witness the stunning view of the city at night. The tower is open until 11 pm, so you can take your time and enjoy the view without being rushed.

For those who love the nightlife scene, the Marais district is a great place to go. This area is known for its lively bars and clubs, and you can dance the night away with locals and tourists alike.

If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, then consider visiting one of the many rooftop bars scattered throughout the city. From Le Perchoir to Mama Shelter, these bars offer a unique experience with stunning views of the city.

Places to Stay

Paris is full of hotels to suit all budgets and preferences. If you’re looking for a central location, the 1st thru 7th arrondissements are great options. The Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhoods are also popular locations for your stay. If you crave a more local feel, try the 11th, 12th, or 20th arrondissements. Whereas if you are looking for a something a little more artsy, Montmartre is also a charming area to stay in. Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on the season and location.

Hotels to Consider

Hôtel de Crillon, a luxurious hotel with a prime location near the Champs-Elysées and the Louvre.
Hotel Lutetia, a historic hotel in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood known for its art deco style and celebrity guests.
Mandarin Oriental Paris, a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Paris, offering stunning views of the city and exceptional service to its guests.

Parisian Food

Paris is known for its incredible restaurant scene, with everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to cozy bistros and cafes.

Restaurants

High-end Experience:

Le Jules Verne (located in the Eiffel Tower)
L’Ambroisie (Michelin three-star restaurant)
Epicure (Michelin three-star restaurant)

Mid-Range Budgets:

Le Comptoir du Relais
Le Chateaubriand
Septime

Budget-Friendly Options:

L’As du Fallafel
Breizh Café
Chez Gladines

Foods to Try

Savory

Escargots
Coq au Vin
Ratatouille
Bouillabaisse
Quiche Lorraine
Steak Frites
Confit de Canard (duck confit)

Sweet

Tarte Tatin
Crème Brûlée
Baguette
Croissant
Pain au Chocolat
Éclair
Macaron

Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots

Paris is truly one of the most photogenic cities in the world, with its stunning architecture, romantic streets and charming cafes. Here are some of the most Instagram-worthy locations to visit while in Paris:

Eiffel Tower – This iconic landmark is a must-visit for any trip to Paris. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the tower itself is a perfect backdrop for any photo.
Montmartre – This bohemian neighborhood is filled with winding streets, colorful buildings and stunning views of the city. The famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica is also located here.
Luxembourg Gardens – These beautiful gardens are a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of Paris. With its fountains, statues, and perfectly manicured lawns, it’s a popular spot for Instagrammers.
Notre Dame Cathedral – This Gothic masterpiece is one of the most famous churches in the world. Its stunning architecture and stained-glass windows make it a perfect spot for photography.
Palace of Versailles – Located just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture. The gardens alone are worth a visit, with their perfectly manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures.

How would you spend one day in Paris? let me know in the comments!

How to Spend Three Days in Paris Itinerary

SHARE THIS POST

Hi, I’m Haley, a Travel Advisor, and I’m here to help make your travel planning adventure easier. If you need any help along the way, please feel free to reach out to me, and I’d be glad to help you in any stage of your travel planning process!

To learn more about working with Haley or Next Vacation Travel Agency: Click Here