Paris, the City of Light, is a dream destination for many, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag or feel overwhelmingly touristy. .
In this 3-day itinerary, we’ll explore how to make the most of Paris in 72 hours while staying outside the main tourist hubs, using public transportation, and enjoying authentic Parisian vibes
Paris Airbnb recommendation
To save hundreds of dollars, we opted to stay in a neighborhood outside of the main touristy areas of Paris. We recommend you do the same as it is only a short train ride to every neighborhood and airport you’d want to go to! This Airbnb was great as it boasted a 2 bed, spacious apartment, and a short walk from the metro!
*Be weary of hostels in Paris, bed bugs are common!
Day 1: Iconic Paris
Morning: Start with the Classics
Eiffel Tower: Begin your day at the Eiffel Tower. Arrive early to beat the crowds and soak in the views from Champ de Mars. Snap photos and take a leisurely walk through the surrounding gardens.
Seine River Walk: Stroll along the Seine towards the Trocadéro Gardens for another perspective of the tower. Continue your walk along the river to enjoy iconic bridges like Pont Alexandre III.
Afternoon: Dive into Art and History
The Louvre: Head to the Louvre for a quick visit to see world-famous art like the Mona Lisa. If you’re short on time, prioritize specific galleries or admire the stunning architecture and pyramid from the outside.
Tuileries Garden: Just steps away, enjoy a leisurely walk or grab a seat in the Tuileries Garden to take in the serene atmosphere.
Evening: Local Dining and Sunset Views
- Dinner in Montmartre: Take the train to Montmartre, a charming neighborhood known for its artistic vibe. Enjoy a classic French dinner at a local bistro. Try dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille paired with a glass of wine.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Climb to the top of Sacré-Cœur for panoramic views of the city at sunset. The atmosphere is magical, and street performers often add to the charm.
Day 2: Trendy Neighborhoods and Hidden Gems
Morning: Pastries and Parks
- Breakfast in Belleville: Start your day in Belleville, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood. Grab a croissant, pain au chocolat, or a seasonal tart at a local bakery. Pair it with an espresso for a true Parisian start.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: One of Paris’ best-kept secrets, this park offers stunning views, waterfalls, and a tranquil escape from the city hustle.
Afternoon: Explore Le Marais
- Lunch and Stroll: Take the metro to Le Marais, one of Paris’ trendiest areas. Wander through cobblestone streets, popping into boutique shops and galleries. Don’t miss trying a falafel at the famous L’As du Fallafel.
- Place des Vosges: Relax in this picturesque square, surrounded by beautiful 17th-century architecture. It’s an ideal spot for people-watching.
Evening: Canal Vibes
Canal Saint-Martin: End your day with a stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin. This hip area is filled with charming cafes and bars. Grab a casual dinner by the water or enjoy a picnic with goodies from a nearby deli.
Day 3: Markets, Culture, and Farewell
Morning: Markets and Local Life
- Marché d’Aligre: Start your day at this lively market in the 12th arrondissement. Browse fresh produce, cheese, and baked goods. Pick up some picnic supplies for later.
- Breakfast Nearby: Find a nearby bakery for a final indulgence in French pastries. Try something new, like a cannelé or kouign-amann.
Afternoon: Latin Quarter Exploration
- Train to the Latin Quarter: Dive into the intellectual heart of Paris. Visit the Sorbonne and wander through streets lined with bookshops, including the iconic Shakespeare and Company.
- Luxembourg Gardens: Relax in this stunning garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment by the fountain.
Evening: Farewell Dinner at Pink Mama (Italian in France🤣)
Dinner at Pink Mama. Nestled in the trendy Pigalle district of Paris, Pink Mamma is a stunning four-story Italian trattoria offering authentic dishes like fresh pasta, Tuscan-style meats, and wood-fired pizzas, all made with ingredients sourced from Italy. Its rooftop greenhouse dining area and hidden speakeasy bar add a unique charm. Located in the vibrant “SoPi” neighborhood, known for its mix of hip coffee shops, stylish boutiques, and iconic attractions like the Moulin Rouge.
Pink Mamma perfectly blends culinary excellence with the lively culture of modern Paris. Be sure to book a reservation ahead of time for the rooftop! We were able to get seated upon waiting in line, but the wait can be ridiculous.
Final Walk: Take a last evening stroll to soak in the city’s ambiance. Paris is particularly magical at night, with its streets and monuments beautifully illuminated. This restaurant is a short walk from all the iconic landmarks, so take your pick at a spot you want to revisit to conclude your stay!
Tips for Your Paris Adventure
- Public Transportation: Invest in a multi-day Metro pass for unlimited train and bus rides.
- Pack Wisely: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as Paris is best explored on foot. Try to minimize suitcase loads, opt for a mini roller bag or ditch it all together and travel with a backpack! This will save you time, money, and frustration as the streets, public transit, and typical narrow hallways and steep stairs to accommodations is not suitcase friendly!
- Be aware of belongings and surroundings: Paris is a city, home to a wide variety of people. not everyone has good intentions. Reminder that pick pocketing is on the rise especially in touristy areas. Be aware of tourist traps! Say no, be firm, and continue walking.
- Stay Smart: Look for accommodations in neighborhoods like Belleville or Montreuil for a more local experience and affordable rates.
- Budget-Friendly Eats: Boulangeries and street markets offer delicious and affordable meal options.
In just 72 hours, you can experience the best of Paris, from its iconic landmarks to its trendy, offbeat neighborhoods. With this itinerary, you’ll leave the City of Light feeling like you’ve truly immersed yourself in its charm and culture.
Looking for more European Travel inspo?
Happy traveling,
Cosette 🙂
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