How Many Days in Paris Is Enough? 3 Itineraries To Help You Plan

Planning a vacation to Paris and want to know how long to stay?

You’re in the right place. Knowing how many days in Paris is enough, all depends on what you want to see. But in my opinion, you’ll need between 3-5 days if you want to see the main hotspots and attractions.

I live in France, and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited Paris, and I still haven’t seen everything.

Each time I go, I discover more hidden coffee shops, streets with history I didn’t know about, and restaurants that seem to have popped up from nowhere. And that’s just for starters.

So for me, there are never enough days or hours in a day for me to see Paris.

But, if you aren’t lucky enough to live in France, then you’ll want to maximize the time you do have.

I’m here to help you decide how many days you should spend in Paris on your vacation. Plus, I’ll give you some suggestions on the best way to see the things that are important to you so you get the most out of your trip. Let’s dive in.

How many days in Paris is enough?

That’s the million-dollar question. The short answer as much time as you can spend and as much time as your budget will allow.

It all comes down to priorities. Are you someone who is happy to just see the city highlights with a couple of great restaurants thrown in? 

Or are you someone who wants to get to know the city behind the tourist areas and see some of the hidden gems? The question really is what’s on your Paris bucket list?

How many days to see all the tourist attractions?

If it’s the tourist attractions in Paris you’re after, then you could probably squeeze in the highlights in 3 days.

If you plan your trip well, you could go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, spend some time on a Louvre Tour and in the Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries Garden), a stroll around Montmartre, and have dinner on a Seine River Cruise.

If you only have a short time in Paris, then one of the best things you can do is the Paris Highlights Tour, a full-day tour where you’ll see most of the major attractions and walk through the Latin Quarter.

What about visiting Paris as a family?

If you’re visiting Paris as a family, then five days is ideal. Paris can be tiring with kids as it’s a busy city, and the hustle and bustle takes it out of you. Taking a couple more days so you can set a more steady pace is advisable. 

And, of course, don’t forget to set aside a day for Disneyland Paris. I’d recommend getting a flexible ticket so you can do both Walt Disney Studios® Park and Disneyland® Park.

If you’ve got older children who have been watching Emily in Paris, then a great way to keep them happy is to take them on the Emily in Paris Tour.

Sarah, your tour guide, is not only a Parisian who speaks perfect English but she has also worked on the set of the hit Netflix Show.

Spending your Honeymoon in Paris

If you’re planning a romantic getaway in Paris, I would suggest enjoying seven days here so you can relax, take your time and really soak up the atmosphere. After all, it is one of the most romantic cities in the world.

After all, there have been so many romantic movies set in Paris that it is also known as the City of Love, not just the City of Lights.

You’ll also want to leave yourself enough time to enjoy a champagne tour out of Paris to somewhere like Reims or Epernay.

Planning Your Paris Itinerary

Planning is essential if you want to pack in as much as possible in Paris. And as someone who has planned multiple trips to Paris, I’m happy to share my recommendations so you can make the most of your time.

1 Day in Paris

With just one day, it will be a whirlwind trip, but you’ll want to hit the highlights while soaking up that inimitable Parisian atmosphere. Start your day bright and early at the Eiffel Tower.

Trust me, you’ll want to beat the crowds, and the morning light makes for some killer photos. From there, hop on the metro for a quick visit to the Louvre Museum.

You won’t have time to see it all, but you can pick a couple of must-see artworks like the Mona Lisa or the Venus de Milo. 

After soaking up some culture, stroll through the Tuileries Garden and make your way to the Champs-Élysées. In the afternoon, head over to Montmartre.

Take the funicular up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of the city and then go for a wander to Artist’s Square. Finish up with a dinner cruise on the Seine River. It’s touristy, but it’s also the perfect way to see Paris lit up in all its glory.

2 Days in Paris

Two days in Paris gives you a bit more breathing space to explore, but let’s be honest, the city’s got so much to offer that you’ll still want to make the most of every minute. 

Kick off your first day in the Latin Quarter. Visit the Panthéon to pay homage to some of France’s greatest minds and then head to the nearby Luxembourg Gardens for a leisurely stroll. In the afternoon, make your way to Le Marais.

Explore its narrow streets, pop into its indie boutiques, and maybe even visit the Picasso Museum if you’re up for more art.

Day two is all about the hidden gems. Start your morning at Canal Saint-Martin. Grab a coffee and a croissant from a nearby café and enjoy breakfast by the canal. 

From there, head to the 11th arrondissement and explore the Oberkampf area. It’s less crowded and offers a glimpse into local life. 

Spend your afternoon at the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. It’s a local secret and offers another panoramic view of Paris. 

For dinner, venture into the 13th arrondissement and explore the Butte-aux-Cailles area, known for its village-like atmosphere and Art Deco architecture.

3 Days in Paris

With a bit more time on your hands, you can really dive into the local culture, explore diverse neighbourhoods, and even venture a bit outside the city. So, let’s get you sorted with a fabulous three-day itinerary.

Day 1: The Classics

Let’s keep day one focused on the iconic landmarks. Start with Notre Dame Cathedral, yes, it’s under restoration, but the exterior is still awe-inspiring. 

Spend your afternoon at the Musée d’Orsay, where you can marvel at an extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces. Wrap up your day with a dinner cruise on the Seine.

Day 2: Local Vibes

Begin your second day at the Marché des Enfants Rouges in Le Marais. It’s Paris’ oldest covered market and offers a variety of international foods. Then, head to the 10th arrondissement to explore the area around Canal Saint-Martin, perfect for people-watching. 

In the afternoon, venture down to the 20th arrondissement to visit Père Lachaise Cemetery. It’s not just a cemetery; it’s also a park and an open-air museum. You’ll see the graves of Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrision and Chopin, to name but a few.

For dinner, head back to Le Marais and find a cosy restaurant to enjoy some coq au vin.

Day 3: A Royal Excursion

On your third day, it’s time to leave the city for a bit and head to the Palace of Versailles. It’s a quick 30-minute train ride from central Paris. Spend your morning exploring the palace and your afternoon wandering through the Gardens of Versailles. 

Trust me, the Hall of Mirrors and the garden’s fountains are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. And yes, I did get to finally go despite the earlier hiccup of it being closed on the Monday we chose to visit.

Head back to Paris in the late afternoon and consider a casual dinner in the Latin Quarter.

How to get around Paris and Understand the Districts

Parisian Districts: The Arrondissements

Paris is split into 20 districts, known as arrondissements. They’re arranged in a clockwise spiral, starting from the city centre. Each has its own unique vibe and attractions.

1st Arrondissement: The Heart of Paris

• What’s there: Louvre Museum, Palais Royal, the Tuileries Garden and some of the best luxury hotels.
• Why go: If you’re an art and history buff, this is your playground.

4th Arrondissement: Le Marais

• What’s there: Notre Dame Cathedral, Place des Vosges, and lots of boutiques and the famous Shakespeare and Company Bookshop.
• Why go: It’s the perfect blend of history, fashion, and vibrant street life.

7th Arrondissement: Eiffel Tower Territory

• What’s there: Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and Musée d’Orsay.
• Why go: For iconic landmarks and some of the best photo ops.

9th Arrondissement: South Pigalle

• What’s there: Trendy bars, small theatres, and Opéra Garnier.
• Why go: It’s a hip, up-and-coming area that offers a different kind of Parisian nightlife.

10th Arrondissement: Canal Saint-Martin

• What’s there: A picturesque canal, quirky shops, and lots of food options.
• Why go: It’s a local favourite for picnics and casual strolls. Plus, it’s a foodie’s paradise.

18th Arrondissement: Montmartre

• What’s there: Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Place du Tertre, and Moulin Rouge.
• Why go: For a bohemian atmosphere and panoramic city views.

The Left Bank vs The Right Bank

Paris is also divided by the Seine River into the Left Bank and the Right Bank.

The Left Bank: The Intellectual and Artistic Soul

Latin Quarter

• What’s there: The Sorbonne University, Panthéon, and Luxembourg Gardens.
• Why go: This area is steeped in intellectual history. It’s a great place for bookshops, cafés, and culture.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

• What’s there: High-end boutiques, art galleries, and the famous Café de Flore.
• Why go: This is the place for luxury shopping and café-hopping. It’s where existentialists like Sartre and de Beauvoir used to hang out.

Montparnasse

• What’s there: Montparnasse Tower, famous cafés like La Coupole, and lots of theatres.
• Why go: For a panoramic view of Paris and a taste of the city’s artistic and literary history.

The Right Bank: The Beating Heart of Commerce and Fashion

Le Marais

• What’s there: Trendy boutiques, the Picasso Museum, and the Place des Vosges.
• Why go: For a mix of old-world charm and modern-day trendiness.

Champs-Élysées and 8th Arrondissement

• What’s there: Arc de Triomphe, high-end shops, and theatres.
• Why go: For a taste of Paris’ glamorous side—think luxury brands and grand architecture.

Montmartre

• What’s there: The Sacré-Cœur, Place du Tertre, and the Moulin Rouge.
• Why go: For a bohemian, artsy vibe and some of the best views of the city.

Opera District

• What’s there: Palais Garnier, Galeries Lafayette, and lots of shopping.
• Why go: For opera, ballet, and a shopping spree that’s second to none.

In a nutshell, the Left Bank is your go-to for intellectual pursuits, art, and a bit of old-world charm. The Right Bank, on the other hand, is all about the glitz and glamour, shopping, and modern-day Parisian life. 

How to manage your Paris Vacation if you only have a few days

Prioritize Landmarks

Decide on a few must-see landmarks and focus on those. You won’t have time for everything, so pick your top three or four and plan around them.

Use Public Transport Wisely

The Paris Metro is your best friend for quick and efficient travel. Consider buying a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel on public transport. It’s available for various durations, from one to five days.

Skip the Lines

Many popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre offer skip-the-line tickets. They’re a bit more expensive but will save you hours of waiting.

Take Advantage of Late Openings

Some museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay have late opening hours on certain days. This is a great way to fit in more sightseeing.

Plan Geographically

Try to visit attractions that are close to each other on the same day to minimize travel time. For example, Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Latin Quarter can easily be explored together.

Book in Advance

From restaurants to river cruises, booking in advance can save you time and sometimes even money. This is especially true if you’re travelling during peak tourist season.

Use Mobile Apps

There are several apps that can make your trip more efficient, from Metro map apps to museum guides. Download these before you go to have all the info you need at your fingertips.

Pack a Portable Charger

You’ll likely be using your phone a lot for navigation and photos, so a portable charger can be a lifesaver.

Keep Some Cash

While many places accept cards, having some cash on hand is useful for smaller shops or emergencies.

Get an All-Inclusive City Pass or Paris Museum Pass

Save up to 50% off over 85 attractions in Paris with the City Pass. I’ve used one of these myself and not only did it save me money but a ton of time too.

Things to Know When Visiting Paris

Knowing the ins and outs of the city will take the stress out of your holiday in Paris, and help you avoid making any big mistakes like I did.

The first time I went to Paris, hubby and I planned to go to the Palace of Versailles, only to find out it closed on Mondays. We stood looking through the golden gates but couldn’t get in. I was so disappointed.

Museum Closures

• Louvre: Closed on Tuesdays. Open late on Wednesdays and Fridays until 9:45 p.m.
• Musée d’Orsay: Closed on Mondays. Open late on Thursdays until 9:45 p.m.
• Royal Palace of Versailles: Closed on Mondays. The Gardens are generally open every day, but access can be restricted if there’s a special event like the Musical Fountains Show.

Public Transport

• Metro: Runs from around 5:30 a.m. to 12:40 a.m. during the week and until 1:40 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Bus: Night buses, known as Noctilien, operate after the metro closes.

Dining Etiquette

• Reservations: Highly recommended for popular spots.
• Tipping: Not obligatory, but appreciated. A euro or two will do.

Safety

• Pickpocketing: Be cautious in crowded tourist spots and on the metro.

Shopping

• Sales: Major sales happen twice a year, in January and July.
• VAT Refund: Non-EU residents can claim a VAT refund on purchases over €175.01 in a single store.

Language

• Basic Phrases: Knowing simple phrases like “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) can go a long way.

Best Time to Visit

• Weather: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Festivals: Keep an eye out for events like Nuit Blanche, a night-time arts festival in October, or Fête de la Musique on June 21st.

FAQS: Planning a Trip to Paris and How Long To Spend There

Final thoughts: How Many Days In Paris Is The Perfect Amount?

Whether you’ve only got 24 hours or a full 7 days to spend in Paris, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that can be tailored to fit your schedule.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s a slice of Paris that caters to every tourist and traveller. 

The key to an unforgettable Parisian adventure lies in smart planning, insight from a local like me, and the ability to just go with the flow. Use public transport like the Paris Metro, opt for skip-the-line tickets, and keep your focus on what interests you most.

And in my opinion, the best month to visit Paris is in March when the crowds are less and the accommodation a lot cheaper.