Paris is a must-see city for any traveller interested in seeing the gorgeous architecture first-hand, exploring the sophisticated French culture, indulging in the food, and taking advantage of the city’s many photo ops. Although Paris deserves at least a few days, it is certainly possible to craft the perfect 1 day in Paris itinerary.
Paris has an array of attractions that simply can’t be ignored. Aside from the recognizable Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées, the city arguably boasts more historical sites than any other.
Plus, who can forget the irresistible French pâtisserie?
In only one day you can cover a lot of the top tourist attractions, especially if you are strategic with your itinerary. But lucky for you I’ve got you covered with this jam-packed day in Paris.
Let’s dive in and see what’s in store for your epic day in Paris itinerary!
24 Hours in Paris Itinerary Overview
Here’s a quick sneak peek of what your itinerary for Paris in one day includes for quick reference!
🛎️ Accommodation:
- Eiffel Petit Louvre ($150+ USD per night) — for incredible Eiffel Tower views
- Hotel Crayon ($120+ USD per night) — to feel like you’re in a French artist’s studio
- St. Christopher’s Gare du Nord ($19+ USD per night) — for the ultimate budget hostel stay
🎫 Top tour to book: Seine evening river cruise
💃 Activities on this itinerary:
- French Pâtisserie for breakfast
- Louvre Museum (get tickets ahead of time here)
- Stroll through the Tuileries Gardens
- Place de la Concorde
- The Pont Alexandre III
- Window shop down the Champs-Élysées
- Arc de Triomphe (book rooftop tickets here)
- Picnic at the Eiffel Tower
- Sunset River Cruise (tickets here)
Map of your Paris itinerary
Who doesn’t love a map to visualise how you are going to conquer this epic Paris itinerary in 1 day?
I’ve made your life easy by creating a visual map that you can simply adjust to remove or add any other additional sites you want to see!
The map also gives you an outline of the best route to take for the below itinerary recommendations!
Save this map to your phone or go old school and print a copy off before you head out.
1 day in Paris itinerary
Let’s now dive into my recommended itinerary.
Heads up, this is not a leisurely itinerary –that’s just not possible when you only have one day – so be sure to wear your best walking shoes, bring a water bottle and some snacks to keep you going!
8:00 am: Devour some French pâtisserie
Start your day off right with a high-end, hand-crafted pastry or bread from BO&MIE Louvre-Rivoli. Grab a seat near the window to enjoy your pain au chocolat and coffee whilst people-watching.
Now you can tick off indulging in French pâtisserie from your bucket list!
9:00 am: Louvre Museum
Take a short 200m stroll (about 3 minutes) from BO&MIE Louvre-Rivoli to the Louvre for your next destination. The Louvre Museum opens at 9 am sharp and is closed on Tuesdays. If you are visiting on a Tuesday I think it is still worth a visit to enjoy the outside of the museum and a short walk through Tuileries Garden next door.
Entry costs €15 and can be purchased when you arrive. There can be a long line so I suggest arriving a bit before 9 am. You can also purchase tickets online to go straight to the entry lines.
It is definitely worth a visit since it has some of the best collections of artwork in the world and allows you to immerse yourself in French history.
Just a word of warning, don’t be too alarmed by all the armed soldiers, they are there to keep you safe in Paris.
When in the Louvre keep an eye out for the following famous pieces and artists:
- The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci – don’t be surprised if you are underwhelmed. It was a lot smaller than I expected and getting a good look is tough as it often has swarms of visitors.
- The Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault
- Venus de Milo statue
- Liberty Leading The People By Eugène Delacroix
- Portrait Of Louis XIV By Hyacinthe Rigaud
10:45 am: Place de la Concorde
Next up take a 15-minute walk from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde through the beautiful Tuileries Garden. The Tuileries Garden is a public garden located in the heart of Paris and makes for a beautiful stroll.
Place de la Concorde is situated at the end of the Champs-Elysées and is the second-largest square in France.
Originally known for having been an execution site during the French Revolution in which Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette (among others) were guillotined. Whether you are interested in the history or admiring the bronze fountains and ancient obelisk, it’s worth the stop.
12 pm: The Pont Alexandre III
This next stop I recommend on your Paris itinerary is a bridge I stumbled across on my trip and was truly in awe of the extravagant gold-plated gilded winged horse statues.
Take a quick 8-minute walk from Place de la Concorde to the Pont Alexandre III.
The Pont Alexandre is a fantastic stop for getting gorgeous photos. From the bridge, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower of the Seine.
It is a majestic spot to pause and soak in the moment.
1 pm: Champs-Élysées
The next stop is a longer walk at around 1.8 km but, don’t worry because it’s time for a bite to eat and perhaps something to drink!
In 20-30 minutes you will arrive at the center of the Champs-Élysées. Alternatively, take the Metro, an inexpensive way to get around the city.
Champs-Élysées is a famous avenue in Paris, France. It is known for its shops, cafes, theaters, and monuments. The avenue runs for 1.9 kilometers from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris.
Take a leisurely stroll along the avenue and admire the beautiful architecture, fountains, and gardens. Stop by one of the many luxury boutiques and flagship stores along the avenue, such as Louis Vuitton, Guerlain, and Cartier, or stick to window shopping.
And by now I’m sure you’re pretty hungry and ready for a break. Enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants on the Champs-Élysées, ranging from casual to fine dining.
Dine in a Michelin-star restaurant such as Yannick Alléno or settle into somewhere more low-key such as Le Chatet du 8ème, a cozy crêperie.
3 pm: Arc de Triomphe
When you get to the end of Champs-Élysées you will find the Arc de Triomphe.
The Arc de Triomphe is a famous monument located in Paris, France, and it is definitely worth a visit.
The monument serves as a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars and is the site of several important national events, such as the annual Bastille Day military parade. It is an impressive architectural masterpiece, standing 50 meters tall and featuring intricate carvings, sculptures, and reliefs.
Climb up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris including the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the surrounding neighborhoods. The view is particularly stunning at sunset.
Overall, the Arc de Triomphe is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and beauty.
4 pm: Picnic at the Eiffel Tower
Next up, take a 30-minute walk to the Eiffel Tower or take the 6 metro from Bir-Hakeim station to Charles de Gaulle Étoile station.
Having a picnic by the Eiffel Tower is a quintessential Parisian experience, and there are many countless reasons why I have added it to your itinerary.
Firstly, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, and having a picnic in its shadow offers a stunning and unforgettable view. Whether you’re sitting on the Champ de Mars or across the Seine, you can enjoy the sight of this magnificent structure towering above you.
Secondly, picnicking is a beloved French pastime, and having a picnic in Paris is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Pick up some fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine at a local market, and enjoy a simple yet delicious meal in a beautiful setting.
And lastly, eating out in Paris can be expensive, but having a picnic is a cost-effective way to enjoy a meal while taking in the city’s sights and sounds. Some markets you can visit include Franprix, Carrefour, and Monoprix, and grab a baguette from a local boulangerie for the most fresh bread.
If you have time, you can certainly also line up and travel up to the top. It’s a view you will never forget.
7 pm: Sunset Seine River cruise
After your picnic, stroll down to the Seine River for a sunset cruise.
A sunset Seine cruise in Paris is a magical experience that allows you to see some of the most beautiful sights in Paris as the sun goes down.
The warm glow of the setting sun, combined with the twinkling lights of the city, creates a truly enchanting ambiance. Spot the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum from a unique unforgettable angle.
I’m sure you’ll also enjoy an activity that allows you to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. Rest your feet and skip the crowds and traffic. What a win!
Other attractions to sub in!
If any of the above doesn’t quite tickle your fancy, sub in one of these other popular attractions.
Or perhaps I’ve convinced you how great Paris is so you’ve decided to extend your trip for another day or so.
- Book a Moulin Rouge show
- Take a food tour (this one of Le Marais is a favorite)
- Take a stroll through the Latin Quarter
- Check out the oldest stone bridge, Pont Neuf
- See Van Gough’s artwork and other Impressionist art at Musée d’Orsay
- Roam around Île de la Cité and see Saint Chapelle
Where to stay in Paris
You may or not be spending the night in Paris during your visit, but just in case, here are some recommendations and suggestions for booking your perfect accommodation.
Hotels with Eiffel Tower views
If you have the budget, why not treat yourself to waking up to views of the Eiffel tower? Not to mention the sparkle at night as you begin to wind down for the day with a beautiful glass of red. It’s only one night after all!
These hotels are very pricey as they come with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Below are probably some of the best value hotels you are going to find if you are after prime location and Eiffel tower views.
Eiffel Petit Louvre
Located only a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel tower and the River Seine, the last two stops of the day, this gorgeous hotel is perfect for unwinding after your long day exploring. The Eiffel Tower peers over the top of the hotel and can be enjoyed from some rooms. Starting at 205€ per night, this is a great option for those looking for a taste of luxury without the huge price tag.
Citadines Tour Eiffel
Citadines would be my personal pick as the studio room with Eiffel Tower views is an extremely good value, for Paris that is. From 300€ per night, you will walk into a contemporary-styled room with an equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and of course, double paneled windows that open up to reveal unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower.
Hôtel La Comtesse
Cranking the luxury up a notch, Comtesse Hotel is a 19th-century building in a prime location for Eiffel Tower views. Only a 15-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, you know it won’t be far away when you finish your day. The rooms are decked out in contemporary décor that is inspired by the literary salons from the 18th century.
Relax at a comfortable mid-range stay in the heart of Paris
Moving onto the perfect in-between stays that aren’t going to break the bank but also don’t involve staying in bunk bed room with 7 other strangers.
Hôtel Victoria Châtelet
Located 1km from the Louvre, each room is individually decorated with unique, colourful art pieces. You will be amazed at how beautifully each room is styled.
Hôtel Crayon by Elegancia
An eclectic hotel located even closer to the Louvre at just 500 m away! Perfect if you are staying the night before your full day in Paris, since the Louvre is our first stop. Each room is decorated like an artist’s studio so enjoy a unique one-of-a-kind experience.
Hotel Louvre Bon Enfants
This next hotel is also located right near the Louvre so you can roll out of bed and kick off your jam-packed day without having to commute. The hotel has bright modern decor with a french flare. A comfortable, yet reasonably priced place to relax and unwind.
Save some money and bunk at a hostel
On a tight budget? Spend your money out enjoying the sites instead of on accommodation by staying in a hostel. Plus, you may even make a few friends. You can browse all hostels in Paris here, or here’s a recommendation.
St Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord
I stayed in St Christopher’s on my first trip to Paris and had a great stay. It is located right near the train station so it’s easy to start your day and roll on home. The hostel beds have curtains which are a huge bonus in my books and there is a social sports bar on the ground floor where you socialise and score cheap drinks.
FAQs
Moving onto some commonly asked questions. Let’s get it all sorted.
Is 1 day for Paris enough?
Let’s be honest, one day is not much time to explore all that is on offer in the French capital.
BUT…with a strategic itinerary, you can get around to the most popular attractions that make Paris the special city it is.
Personally, I much prefer slower travel so I can truly immerse myself in the culture and get around to the less travelled hidden gems. But sometimes you do have 1-day stopovers and you need to make the most of them!
So in summary, no 1 day in Paris is not enough. But with this itinerary, you will leave feeling like you have scraped the surface and will be satisfied knowing you have seen world-renowned attractions.
Related read >> How to spend 4 days in Paris
Best time of year visit Paris
So you’ve decided you want to go to Paris, but when should you go?
The good news is that no matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll find plenty of spectacular things to do and fascinating attractions to see.
Although each season and each month has pros and cons including budget, weather, and local events, generally summer (June – August) and autumn (September – November) are your best bet.
While the summertime is quite warm and crowded, the major pro is that the weather is exceptional. The sun doesn’t set until after 10 p.m! This is exactly what you want to go exploring the city!
Although major attractions stay open all year, except for major holidays, it is important to note that during August some shops, Michelin-starred bistros, galleries, and boutiques will close as Parisians leave for holidays.
Best way to get around Paris
To explore Paris in 1 day, you need to think carefully about how you are going to get around. The last thing you want is to waste time trying to navigate the best way to get around and money!
Below are the best ways I have found to get around and how I managed to navigate them.
Walk
One of the best ways to get around Paris is by walking. When I visited Paris in July the weather was bearable to spend most of the day on foot. I ended up walking 16.2km or 23,000 steps.
Paris is a walkable city. If you combine it with catching the Metro or jumping on a bus for longer journeys and resting your feet, you will end up seeing a lot more beyond just the destinations.
I think it’s important to walk at a slower pace and take in the streets, architecture and people-watch the locals. It’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey! Cheesy, but very true!
Metro Line
The Paris Metro is the fastest way of getting around the city. The underground system has 16 interconnected lines and is also connected to the express train RER.
A metro station will be labeled with a large “M”. Most stations will have a large metro map at the entrance and at the platform. Alternatively, you can check out the map here.
For only one day exploring, I would just buy individual tickets as you go at the train station. Make sure to note the zone to which you want to travel to ensure you buy the appropriately priced ticket.
If you are staying for longer, check out the weekly or monthly travel cards: Paris Visite and Passe Navigo.
Electric Scooter
Like many other major cities these days there are lots of electric scooter (and bike) options.
The perfect in-between walking and taking public transport!
Just ensure you wear a helmet, please and thank you!
Hop on hop off buses
As with many other major cities that attract thousands of tourists, hop-on and hop-off buses are in no shortage.
Hop on and hop off buses are a great way to get around to major attractions for free or for really cheap! Plus you’ll also get to learn some of the city’s history.
Tour guide
If you really want to skip the logistics of planning your 1-day itinerary and want to learn more about the places you are visiting consider taking a walking tour or arranging a local tour guide.
Although I haven’t done this in Paris, I have experienced a private walking tour during my stay in New York. On the first day of our trip to the Big Apple, our local tour guide took us to a mix of obvious attractions and local secret spots.
He gave us tips only a local would know such as how to frequent the subway, where to order coffee, when to move a car for the street sweepers, and what places are overrated and can be skipped from our itineraries.
Overall, I think tour guides can be an excellent way to explore the best of a city and delegate the logistics of travel planning.
Conclusion
And that’s it for our guide to getting the most from one day in Paris! By following this itinerary you will get to see some of the best places in Paris in a very short amount of time.
Check out these other France posts:
- How to spend 4 days in Paris
- Tips for traveling solo to Paris
- France travel guide
- Things to do in Mont St. Michel, France
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Guest Author
Olivia is the founder of the travel blog Defining Decade. As a young Aussie traveller, she is the go-to guide for unlocking the world of travel in your twenties.
The post The Perfect 1 Day in Paris Itinerary (with a map!) appeared first on Periodic Adventures.