3-Day Explorer's Itinerary for Paris, France: Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

Day 1: Iconic Sights Day

Paris, France on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Enjoy a classic Parisian breakfast of croissants and café au lait at this historic café, open daily from 7:30am, known for its intellectual clientele and great atmosphere.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Louvre Museum

Explore the world’s largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris, opening at 9:00am. Don't miss the Mona Lisa and vast collections spanning thousands of years.
EUR17, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Fumoir

Savor French cuisine in a cozy setting just steps from the Louvre, serving from noon to 2:30pm. Try traditional dishes like duck confit or French onion soup.
EUR35, 1.5h

2:45pm

Stroll along the Seine & Notre-Dame Cathedral exterior

Walk along the Seine’s picturesque banks and admire the façade of Notre-Dame Cathedral, still open to view externally as restoration continues, perfect for photo opportunities.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Visit Sainte-Chapelle

Admire exquisite stained-glass windows in this Gothic chapel, open until 7:00pm. A must-see for architecture and interiors fans.
EUR11.50, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Procope

Dine at Paris’s oldest café, established in 1686. Offers classic French dishes in an elegant atmosphere, open for dinner from 6pm.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 2: Art and Local Life

Paris, France on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées

Indulge in famed pastries such as pistachio escargot from this artisan bakery, open from 7am, beloved by locals.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

Wander the bohemian streets of Montmartre and visit the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, open from 6am to 10:30pm, for panoramic views over Paris.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Consulat

Enjoy traditional French bistro fare in this charming Montmartre eatery known for its historic artist clientele, open for lunch until 3pm.
EUR30, 1.5h

2:45pm

Visit Le Marais District

Discover trendy boutiques, art galleries, and the historic Place des Vosges in this vibrant neighborhood; many shops and galleries stay open until 7pm.
Free, 2.5h

6:00pm

Explore Pompidou Centre

Visit the modern art museum and cultural hub open until 9pm on Fridays, perfect for contemporary art enthusiasts.
EUR16, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Derrière

Enjoy eclectic French cuisine in an artsy and quirky atmosphere in Le Marais, open for dinner from 7:30pm.
EUR45, 1.5h

Day 3: Gardens and Views

Paris, France on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Angelina

Start your day with a signature hot chocolate and classic French pastries at this elegant tearoom near Luxembourg Gardens, open from 7:30am.
EUR20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Luxembourg Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk among beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues, open daily from 7:30am.
Free, 1.5h

11:15am

Explore Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Stroll through this historic district filled with cafes, bookstores, and art galleries, capturing quintessential Parisian charm.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café de la Paix

Relish classic French cuisine in a Belle Époque setting near the Opéra, open for lunch from noon, famous for its elegant atmosphere.
EUR40, 1.5h

3:00pm

Eiffel Tower visit

Ascend early to avoid crowds and enjoy breathtaking sunset views from the top of the Eiffel Tower, open until 11pm. Book tickets in advance.
EUR26.80, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner Cruise on the Seine

Conclude your trip with a scenic dinner cruise along the Seine, featuring gourmet French cuisine and illuminated city sights, departing at 7:30pm.
EUR100, 2.5h