3-Day Ultimate Paris Travel Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Iconic Paris Sights

Paris, France on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Enjoy a classic Parisian breakfast of croissants and café au lait at this historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés café, open from 7:30am. Perfect start to your day in Paris.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Louvre Museum

Explore the world’s largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces. Open 9:00am - 6:00pm, closed Tuesdays.
EUR17, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Fumoir

Located near the Louvre, this elegant bistro serves French cuisine featuring fresh and seasonal ingredients, open from 12:00pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:00pm

Seine River Cruise

Relax on a 1-hour cruise along the Seine, admiring Paris landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower from the water. Cruises run frequently until evening.
EUR15, 1h

3:30pm

Notre-Dame Cathedral Visit

Visit the iconic Gothic cathedral (checking restoration status post-2019 fire) and appreciate its architecture and stained glass windows. Open 8:00am - 6:45pm.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Le Procope

Dine in one of Paris’s oldest cafés boasting classic French dishes and historic ambiance, open from 6:30pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 2: Art and Views

Paris, France on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Holybelly 5

Try hearty crepes and specialty coffee at this popular café near Canal Saint-Martin, opening at 8:00am.
EUR20, 1h

9:30am

Explore Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Wander the charming streets of Montmartre and visit the stunning Basilica with panoramic views over Paris. Basilica open 6:00am - 10:30pm.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Musée de Montmartre

Learn about the neighborhood’s rich artistic history in this charming museum with beautiful gardens. Open 10:00am - 6:00pm.
EUR12, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Consulat

Enjoy traditional French cuisine in an iconic Montmartre restaurant famously frequented by artists. Open from noon.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Eiffel Tower Visit

Go up the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views of Paris. Book tickets in advance, open 9:30am - 11:45pm.
EUR26, 2h

6:00pm

Champ de Mars Picnic Dinner

Grab takeaway foods from nearby shops and enjoy a relaxed picnic dinner with a view of the illuminated Eiffel Tower.
EUR15, 1h30m

Day 3: Culture and Gardens

Paris, France on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Angelina Paris

Indulge in the famous hot chocolate and pastries at this elegant tearoom on Rue de Rivoli, open 8:00am - 7:00pm.
EUR20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Musée d'Orsay

Explore this stunning museum in a former railway station featuring Impressionist masterpieces. Open 9:30am - 6:00pm, closed Mondays.
EUR16, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Campana (inside Orsay Museum)

Convenient and stylish dining spot offering light French fare amidst museum ambiance.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Le Jardin du Luxembourg Visit

Relax in one of Paris’s most beautiful parks, featuring fountains and sculptures. Open 7:30am - dusk, free entry.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Stroll this historic district filled with boutiques, galleries, and charming cafés for last-minute shopping or coffee.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Les Deux Magots

Dine at this legendary café known for its literary clientele and classic French dishes, open till late.
EUR40, 1h30m