Thrifty 3-Day Paris Adventure: Enjoying the Eiffel Tower and Louvre

  • Day 1: Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise
    Estimated time from hotel: 35 minutes via metro

    The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic landmark in Paris, and the attraction you'll be coming back to throughout your stay. Enjoy some time taking photos and wandering around the park. By early evening, opt for taking a Seine River Cruise with incredible views of the tower and the city.

  • Day 2: Louvre Museum and Jardin des Tuileries
    Estimated time from Eiffel Tower: 25 minutes via metro

    A trip to Paris isn't complete without visiting the Louvre Museum, which houses the famous painting "Mona Lisa." After spending your morning exploring the exhibition, head outdoors for a relaxing walk to Jardin des Tuileries -- a beautiful park where you can enjoy the greenery or dine at one of the on-site cafes.

  • Day 3: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica
    Estimated time from Jardin des Tuileries: 40 minutes via metro

    Take a break from the bustling Parisian streets and visit the charming neighbourhood of Montmartre. Here, you can explore the bohemian art scene, get a portrait painted at Place du Tertre or visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica -- a strikingly beautiful church with amazing views of the city from the hilltop.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Eiffel Tower (2-3 hours, free to €25)
  • Seine River Cruise (1 hour, around €15)
  • Louvre Museum (2-3 hours, €15)
  • Jardin des Tuileries (1-2 hours, free to €20)
  • Montmartre (2-3 hours, free)
  • Sacré-Cœur Basilica (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €50-€75 (excluding transportation and accommodations)

Transportation

Getting around Paris is fairly easy and affordable with public transportation. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite Pass or a Paris Passlib' Card to enjoy unlimited access to the metro, bus and RER networks, as well as other discounts and benefits. Alternatively, use ride-sharing apps or walk, to save money and discover hidden gems.

Estimated travel cost: €0-€35 depending on mode of transportation and duration.

Useful Tips

If you have additional time, consider visiting other popular museums like Musée d’Orsay, Centre Pompidou, or the Rodin Museum. For foodies, don’t miss out on the city’s croissants, macaroons, and crepes. If you’re tight on time, you can combine Day 1 and Day 2, then create a new Day 3 itinerary, visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Luxembourg Garden

Airports

Paris has two main airports, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). CDG airport, located 25km north-east of the city centre and has direct connections to public transport. Orly airport, located 13km south of the city centre and easily accessible by shuttle or public transport.

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