We only had 3 short days in Paris during our 19 days in Europe, but boy did we make the most of it. Unsurprisingly, this historic metropolis had the longest list of “things to do” of all the cities we visited so we got to know the Metro system very well and walked at light-speed to get from attraction to attraction. If you only have a few days in Paris like we did, here is a helpful list of things to do in Paris given your short – but definitely worthwhile – stay. It really is a special place and I can’t wait to go back. 

Things to do in Paris:

• Walk around the Louvre (Musée de Louvre) and the Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries). Unfortunately the museum was closed the day we went and there wasn’t much greenery at the garden since it was February, but the historic area is definitely worth a stroll. Exploring the area during the off-season meant there were barely any tourists around, which made for a very peaceful visit.
• Walk along the Champs-Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe.
• Hike up to Sacre-Coeur. This basilica sits on the highest point in the city and provides a sprawling view of Paris. After you spend some time here, take the main steps down and shop for souvenirs in the 18th arrondissement.
• Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and have a French meal in the area. This stop was especially special for us, as this is where Roger proposed to me (in the cathedral’s courtyard).
• Take pictures at the Eiffel Tower and walk over to the Musée Rodin. This is one of favorite museums! I had never been to a sculptor-based museum and was in awe of Auguste Rodin’s work. The museum is both indoors and outdoors and took us about 3 hours to explore.
• Walk around Luxembourg Garden. Another relaxing spot to rest during your busy travels and people watch.
• Where to eat: I cannot recommend stopping by a patisserie at least once a day during your Paris stay. The pastries are dirt-cheap compared to American prices and they are great spots to start your day off. I also highly suggest Le Tournebievre by the Notre Dame, which is where I had my birthday dinner. The service was excellent.
• Where to shop: My personal favorite shopping district was Le Marais. Though quite pricey, I enjoyed just window shopping through the district’s quaint streets. Click here for a list of Paris’ numerous other shopping areas.

Other Tips for your Paris Trip:

• Where to stay: We stayed in an Airbnb in the 20th arrondissement, which was very convenient to a metro station and restaurants around the bustling Voltaire metro station area. This is a great neighborhood if you’re looking for cheaper accommodations.
• How we got around: we walked and took the Metro everywhere (I believe we bought a 3 day pass).

Our Paris Trip in Photos:

Fun at the Louvre

Arc de Triomphe

Steps by the Sacre-Coeur

View of Paris from Sacre-Coeur

Walking along the canal

Pont des Arts (the bridge that was once covered in love locks)

Some of the new love locks that people have added

Foggy day at the Eiffel Tower

The other side of the Eiffel Tower

The famous Thinker at Musee Rodin

Outdoor sculptures at Musee Rodin

More of the Musee Rodin

Shopping in Paris

Dining at Le Tournebievre

A special moment at the Notre Dame

Do you have any Paris travel suggestions? Let us know in the comments!

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