2 Days in Paris: First Time
Embark on a whirlwind adventure through the captivating streets of Paris with our 2 Days in Paris Itinerary: Best Itinerary for First-Time Visitors. Get ready to witness the iconic landmarks and indulge in the rich history and artistic wonders that have made Paris a beloved destination for travelers all over the world.
Day one will have you standing in awe at the majestic Eiffel Tower, taking in the picturesque views at Champ de Mars, and strolling through the charming streets of Rue Cler. Indulge in the luxurious experience of sipping on the finest hot chocolate at Angelina, and marvel at the architectural wonders of The Louvre and Place de la Concorde. The evening will bring you down the famous Champs-Élysées to witness the grandeur of the Arc de Triomphe, and to soak in the ambiance at the renowned Buddha Bar by the Seine River.
Day two will dive into the rich history and artistic exploration of Paris, taking you to Île de la Cité, the stunning Sainte-Chapelle, and the historical confines of The Conciergerie. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Notre Dame Cathedral, and wander through the beloved book haven of Shakespeare & Company. Indulge in the delectable cuisine at Le Petit Bouclerie and Le Procope, and embrace the artistic legacy at Les Deux Magots. Marvel at the masterpieces at the Musée d’Orsay and witness the breathtaking splendor of Sacre-Coeur Basilica. The evening will unveil the vibrant nightlife of Paris, from the iconic Moulin Rouge to the historic charm of Le Chat Noir.
With each step, you'll find yourself captivated by the rich history, artistic wonders, and vibrant energy of Paris. This meticulously crafted itinerary will ensure that every moment is filled with awe-inspiring experiences, leaving you with a lifetime of cherished memories in the City of Light.
Days
Day 1: Historic Paris and Artistic Exploration
Begin the Parisian adventure on the historic Île de la Cité with landmarks like the iconic Notre Dame and the stained glass marvel of Sainte-Chapelle. Wander through the timeless French history at the Conciergerie and cross bridges that present stunning vistas of the city. Later, dive into the world of Impressionism at the Musée d'Orsay before heading to Montmartre to experience the artistic charm of this hilltop village, culminating the day at the Sacre-Coeur Basilica with panoramic views.
Visit
-
Île de la Cité
Île de la Cité is the birthplace of Paris, now home to landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle. Currently, Notre Dame is undergoing restoration but remains a spectacular sight. Walking onto the island across Pont Neuf, visitors are enveloped in centuries of history and culture. -
Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its astonishing stained glass windows, is a gothic masterpiece constructed in the 13th century. Found within the medieval Palais de la Cité, this chapel contains 15 magnificent windows that depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments, attracting visitors from around the world. -
The Conciergerie
The Conciergerie on the Île de la Cité has a grim past as a former prison where Marie Antoinette and many others were held during the French Revolution. Now it serves as a museum and a monument to this turbulent period in French history. -
Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. While it's currently closed for restoration following a devastating fire, the cathedral's facade still stands proudly as a testament to the resilience of both the building and Parisians. -
Pont de l’Archeveche
The Pont de l’Archeveche offers a memorable perspective of Notre Dame. It's a romantic spot known for the tradition of love locks, which, although discouraged, has been a part of its contemporary lore. -
Shakespeare & Company
Shakespeare & Company is an iconic English-language bookstore on the Left Bank. A historic literary hub, it's been frequented by famous expat writers and continues to be a beloved spot for book lovers. -
Musée d’Orsay
Musée d'Orsay, set in a beaux-arts railway station, boasts the world's most extensive collection of Impressionist artwork. Visitors can admire works by Monet, Van Gogh, and many others and enjoy the unique views of Paris through its iconic clock windows. -
Sacre-Coeur Basilica
Perched atop Montmartre, the Sacre-Coeur Basilica offers breathtaking views of Paris. It's renowned for its white domes and serves as a pivotal cultural and spiritual landmark, inviting visitors to ascend its dome for even more spectacular city views. -
Le Moulin Rouge
Witness the allure of the Belle Époque at Le Moulin Rouge. Known for its cabaret shows and the red windmill on its roof, this iconic venue offers dinner shows that encapsulate the essence of Parisian night-life extravagance. -
Pont Neuf
As the oldest standing bridge across the Seine in Paris, Pont Neuf offers picturesque vistas of the river and serves as a historical passage to Île de la Cité.
Eat
-
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is a charming café with one of the prettiest storefronts in Paris. It offers a delightful dining experience amidst a historic setting, perfect for an early lunch or a moment of relaxation. -
Le Petit Bouclerie
Le Petit Bouclerie is a small café nestled in the Latin Quarter, known for its crepes. It provides an affordable dining option without compromising on the Parisian café experience. -
Le Procope
Le Procope claims the title of Paris's oldest café. Throughout its history, it has hosted notable figures such as Rousseau, Diderot, and Benjamin Franklin, making it a culinary institution steeped in the Enlightenment era. -
Les Deux Magots
Les Deux Magots, located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is a quintessential Parisian café. Once a meeting place for famous artists and intellectuals like Hemingway and Picasso, now serves a side of history with its delectable fare. -
Le Relais Gascon
Le Relais Gascon offers a delightful dining experience in the heart of Montmartre. Renowned for its French cuisine, it's a popular choice for an evening meal in the charming and artistic neighborhood. -
La Maison Rose
La Maison Rose, famous for its pink facade and feature in many photographs, doubles as a cozy restaurant in Montmartre. Its picturesque setting makes it a great spot for both a meal and a photo opportunity. -
Le Chat Noir
Le Chat Noir is a historic spot to enjoy drinks after dinner. Located a short walk from the Moulin Rouge, it's the perfect place to unwind and reflect on a day filled with Parisian adventures.
Transit
-
Louvre-Rivoli
Louvre-Rivoli is a metro station that serves as a starting point for a scenic walk to Île de la Cité, leading visitors through some of Paris' most famous scenes en route to the historic island. -
Cité
Metro station Cité is ideally located on Île de la Cité. It provides easy access to nearby attractions such as Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, making it a convenient stop for visitors. -
Concorde
The Concorde metro station is a significant transit point for visitors heading to the Musée d'Orsay from Montmartre. From here, one can experience the Parisian metro’s efficiency. -
Lamarck-Caulaincourt
Lamarck-Caulaincourt metro station is the gate to Montmartre. Visitors embark here to explore the vibrant streets that lead to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica and other landmarks of the bohemian quarter.
Photos
Day 2: Iconic Paris Landmarks and Indulgences
This day in Paris starts with a climb up the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, an ideal initiation for first-time visitors. After descending, a quaint picnic in the Champ de Mars offers a more leisurely pace and a stunning perspective of the towering structure. The afternoon is reserved for immersing in art at the world's largest museum, the Louvre, and satisfying your sweet tooth at Angelina, known for its luxurious hot chocolate. The day continues with a historical stroll through Place de la Concorde, followed by a walk down the famous Champs-Élysées, culminating with a visit to the Arc de Triomphe for an unparalleled urban vista. To end the evening, one can opt for a stylish dinner at Buddha Bar or a serene cruise along the Seine River.
Visit
-
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris and a must-see for travelers. Visitors have the option to climb its stairs or take the elevator to various levels for panoramic city views. Booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak season. The second level offers a balance of scenery and less crowding compared to the summit. -
Champ de Mars
Champ de Mars is a large public greenspace located between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire. This park is ideal for picnics with a view of the Eiffel Tower and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation in the heart of the city. -
The Louvre
The Louvre is the largest art museum in the world and a historical monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. The building's architecture is as impressive as its collections. To optimize the visit, travelers are advised to book tickets ahead to skip the lines or possibly take a guided tour. -
Place de la Concorde
Place de la Concorde is a major public square in Paris with a complex history, including being the execution site during the French Revolution. It's a historical landmark featuring the Luxor Obelisk and offers beautiful vistas, including views of the Champs-Élysées. -
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées and honors those who fought and died for France. Visitors can climb to the top for views of Paris's 12 radiating avenues. The panoramic perspectives from this monument are truly memorable, especially at dusk. -
Seine River
Flowing through the heart of Paris, the Seine River offers a unique vantage point from which to view many of the city's historic landmarks. Sunset or evening river cruises provide a relaxing and romantic setting, often with the option for dining, to encapsulate the day's adventure.
Eat
-
Angelina
Angelina is a famous tea room located on Rue de Rivoli, across the Tuileries Garden from the Louvre, and renowned for its rich hot chocolate and fine pastries. It offers a refined atmosphere for a mid-afternoon indulgence and is a favorite among those with a taste for sweet luxury. -
Buddha Bar
Buddha Bar is a luxurious restaurant offering an Asian-inspired atmosphere, with a blend of dining and lounging experiences. Located a short walk from the Concorde metro station, it is a trendy spot to conclude an evening with exquisite food and drinks.
Transit
-
Rue Cler
Rue Cler is a charming street known for its market vibe, with a variety of shops where visitors can gather supplies for a perfect Parisian picnic. Here one can find delectable treats such as macarons from Laduree, gourmet chocolate, and an assortment of cheeses and wines. -
Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous avenues in Paris and the world, known for upscale shops, theaters, and cafes. It extends from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe and is a bustling promenade rich in French culture and history.
Photos
More from Gary Chao
Gary Chao's Turas.app profile