How to Spend 2 Days in Paris?
A Paris local’s curated itinerary for 2 days in Paris. Step-by-step guide to visit what really matters. If you’re in a hurry, jump to the itinerary overview here.
Two days in Paris isn’t enough time to see everything, which means not every famous site deserves your limited time. Some landmarks are genuinely worth experiencing. Others exist mostly because they’re on every tourist checklist, not because they’ll give you something meaningful to remember.
This 2-day Paris itinerary focuses on what’s actually worth your time – the sites that deliver on their reputation, the neighborhoods where you’ll want to linger, the moments that make Paris feel less like a checklist and more like a place you’re actually experiencing. It’s organized by Right Bank (Day 1) and Left Bank (Day 2) for smart logistics. It assumes you’d rather do fewer things well than rush through twenty landmarks you’ll barely remember.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of every Paris attraction, this isn’t it. But if you have limited time and want to spend it on what actually matters, keep reading.
Last update: April 2026
Paris 2-Day Itinerary – Know Before You Go
This 2-day Paris itinerary is organized by Seine River bank for easy navigation: the Right Bank on day 1 and the Left Bank on day 2. It includes two detailed maps – one for each day – with all recommended stops clearly marked.
The focus is on enjoying quality time in fewer places rather than rushing through a long list of sights. It intentionally skips certain spots, such as the interior of the Panthéon and the Champs-Élysées, because they don’t deliver on their reputation. Your limited time deserves better.
The itinerary also assumes you’ll be using the Paris Metro, with suggested lines and stations indicated throughout. Be sure to check out the best Paris Metro tickets for tourists.
Museum Closing Days
- Louvre: Tuesdays
- Musée d’Orsay (alternative): Mondays
- Best days for this itinerary: Wednesday to Sunday
Book Ahead
- Sainte-Chapelle: 2 months (timed entry). Different prices for EEA – non-EEA visitors
- Louvre: 1-2 months, depending on the season (timed entry). Different prices for EEA – non-EEA visitors
- Musée d’Orsay: 1 month (timed entry)
- Moulin Rouge: as soon as possible
- Eiffel Tower: 2 months (timed entry)
Want skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Paris? Get your hands on a Paris Museum Pass
Where to Stay in Paris for 2 Days
With only 2 days in Paris, it’s best to stay in a central location, close to the starting point for Day 1 or Day 2.
- Le Pavillon de la Reine (historial 5-star hotel in Le Marais, walkable to everything)
- Hotel La Comtesse (mid-range hotel with Eiffel Tower views from all the rooms)
- Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne (4-star hotel near the Louvre, central location)
More hotel recommendations by travel style in my Arrondissements guide.
Don’t leave without travel insurance! SafetyWing Essential plan works well for long and short trips (from 5 days up). Can also cover electronics theft through their add-on
2 Days in Paris Itinerary, Day 1 – Paris Right Bank
On day 1 of this 2-day Paris itinerary, you will be visiting:
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Louvre Museum
- Tuileries Garden
- Montmartre
- Moulin Rouge
Click here to view this Paris 2-day Itinerary Map, day 1 on Google
Paris is bisected by the Seine River (La Seine, in French), which flows westwards to the English Channel. In Paris, you will often hear about Paris Rive Gauche (Paris’ Left Bank) and Paris Rive Droite (Paris’ Right Bank): when facing downstream, the northern bank is to the right, and the southern bank is to the left.
The island that you can see in the middle of the Seine River is named Ile de la Cité, which was the center of the royal and religious powers in Medieval times. Ile de la Cité will be the starting point of this Paris itinerary.
1. Notre Dame Cathedral
Grab a coffee and head to Île de la Cité, the heart of Paris. From the metro station Cité (line 4), look for Notre-Dame’s twin towers – this will be the starting point of your explorations today.
Just in front of the cathedral’s main façade, there is a plaque marking France’s km 0. This means that all French roads are measured from this point.
Notre Dame Cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Paris, and you can see Her represented in the rose window. The construction of this jewel of Gothic Architecture began in the 12th century and was completed in the 14th century.
Here’s how to visit Notre Dame, with or without a reserved time slot. Once inside, there’s no set itinerary, and you’re free to wander around the cathedral as you please. Stay as long as you like to admire the architecture and the restoration work following the April 2019 fire.
» Notre Dame Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7:50 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Weekends from 8:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
» Notre Dame Towers Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (1 April to 30 September); 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (1 October to 30 March)
Before leaving Île de la Cité, consider visiting one of these historic sights on the island: Sainte-Chapelle or the Conciergerie.
» Sainte-Chapelle is a royal chapel built in the 13th century in Gothic style to house the Crown of Thorns. Today, it holds one of the most extensive collections of 13th-century stained glass in the world – Click here to buy your tickets
» The Conciergerie is a 14th-century Gothic building that was formerly the palace of the Kings of France and later used as a prison. Visitors can explore the dungeons and the chapel where Queen Marie Antoinette was held during her final days before being executed by guillotine – Click here to buy your tickets
» The Sainte Chapelle is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer. To fully appreciate the effect of its windows, try visiting on a sunny day.
» The Conciergerie opens every day, from 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
2. A Scenic Stroll along the Seine’s Right Bank
This 2-day Paris itinerary continues along the river. Take Rue d’Arcole and cross the bridge – you’ve just reached the Seine’s Right Bank. Start walking northwest along Quai François Mitterrand, with the river on your left.
From here, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Île de la Cité, including the Conciergerie (the building with the pointed towers), the iconic Parisian rooftops, and the Pont Neuf – which, despite its name (“New Bridge”), is actually the oldest bridge in Paris!
After a pleasant 20-minute walk, you’ll reach the Louvre Museum.
3. Visit the Louvre Museum
With only two days in Paris, you’ll likely have time for just one museum – either the Louvre Museum or the Musée d’Orsay. I recommend the Louvre.
Discerning travelers often find it hard to resist the Louvre Museum, even on a short trip! Originally built as a royal palace, the Louvre Palace is now one of the world’s largest and most visited museums.
Admire Pei’s Glass Pyramid in the inner courtyard, then head inside for a short visit.
Elisa’s Local Tip: The famous tea house Angelina has a location inside the Louvre, not far from Napoleon III’s apartments. It’s a great spot to enjoy their signature hot chocolate or try the iconic Mont Blanc dessert without the usual crowds.
» Louvre Museum Opening Hours: from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the museum stays open until 9:45 p.m.
» Read my tried-and-tested strategy to get the most out of the Louvre in two hours or less
4. Wander Through the Tuileries Garden
After admiring some of the Louvre’s most famous masterpieces, take a refreshing stroll in the Tuileries Garden.
One of Paris’s most beautiful green spaces and the city’s oldest French garden, the Tuileries Garden was originally designed in the 16th century on the site of ancient tile factories – which is where its name comes from. The current layout preserves the essence of André Le Nôtre’s original design, the same visionary landscape architect behind the Gardens of Versailles and Château de Chantilly.
Stroll among the ponds and flowerbeds, admire the sculptures scattered throughout the park, and if you’re hungry, stop by one of the guinguettes (kiosks) for coffee or a quick bite.
Elisa’s Local Tip: Discover the Tuileries’ secrets with this self-guided garden quest – a fun way to explore its fascinating history.
5. Secrets and Stories of Bohemian Montmartre
Spend the final hours of your first day exploring the charming, bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre.
From the Tuileries, take the metro to Anvers station (line 12) and follow the self-guided Stories of Old Montmartre Walking Tour. This route highlights Montmartre’s top sights: the Sacré-Cœur, Moulin de la Galette, Place du Tertre, and the Wall of Love.
Wander from the Sacré-Cœur down to Place des Abbesses at a relaxed pace, pausing for coffee or simply to soak up the stories behind each landmark.
Elisa’s Local Tip: Climb to the Sacré-Cœur dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris! The entrance is outside the basilica, on the left-hand side.
» Sacré-Coeur Opening Hours: daily from 6 a.m. to 10.30 p.m. The entrance is free.
» Dome Opening Hours: daily from 9.30 a.m. /10.30 a.m. to 8.30 p.m., depending on the season. To climb up the Dome, there are 300 stairs without a lift.
6. Evening at the Moulin Rouge
Wrap up your first day in Paris with a night of music, can-can dance, and champagne at the iconic Moulin Rouge. One of the best cabarets in Paris, tickets sell out quickly, so book in advance to secure your spot.
If cabaret isn’t your style, wander the charming streets by night. This is especially delightful during the warmer months, when the air on the hill feels fresher than in central Paris, while in winter, the neighborhood takes on a mysterious atmosphere I particularly enjoy. Dine at one of the best restaurants in Montmartre, then cap off the evening with a cocktail at my favorite rooftop spot, Terrass’ Rooftop Bar (12 Rue Joseph de Maistre), and take in breathtaking views of the City of Lights.
Two Days in Paris Itinerary, Day 2 – Paris Left Bank
On day 2 of this two days in Paris itinerary, you will be visiting:
- Latin Quarter
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- Eiffel Tower
Click here to view this 2-Day Paris Itinerary Map, day 2 on Google
1. Explore the Latin Quarter
Start the last day of this Paris 2-day itinerary with a coffee in the Latin Quarter, the vibrant heart of university life.
The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest districts in Paris, where the former Roman city of Lutetia (AD 1) developed along its main street (Cardo Maximus), the present-day Rue Saint-Jacques. Like all Roman cities, Lutetia had a forum (located on what is now Rue Soufflot), Roman baths (still visible from Boulevard Saint-Michel), and an amphitheater, now known as the Arènes de Lutèce.
Take the first half of this Latin Quarter walking tour, from Place Saint-Michel to the Church of Saint-Étienne du Mont, to explore this fascinating neighborhood. Along the way, you will see (from the outside) notable buildings such as La Sorbonne, the Cluny Museum, and the Panthéon of Paris.
This historic district is one of Paris’s oldest, tracing its roots back to the Roman city of Lutetia (AD 1) along its main thoroughfare, the present-day Rue Saint-Jacques. Like all Roman cities, Lutetia featured a forum (on what is now Rue Soufflot), Roman baths (still visible from Boulevard Saint-Michel), and an amphitheater, now the Arènes de Lutèce.
Take the first half of this Latin Quarter walking tour, from Place Saint-Michel to the Church of Saint-Étienne du Mont, to explore the neighborhood’s rich history. Along the way, admire (from the outside) landmarks such as La Sorbonne, the Cluny Museum, and the Panthéon of Paris.
2. Wander the Luxembourg Gardens
Explore the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens and admire the palace originally built for Queen Marie de Médicis (now the Sénat Palace), as well as other charming sights, such as the octagonal pond, the romantic Médicis Fountain, and one of the Statues of Liberty in Paris.
During the warmer months, don’t hesitate to blend in with the locals and enjoy a picnic on the grass.
Elisa’s Local Tip: This self-guided Treasure Hunt is a fun way to explore the Luxembourg Gardens while enjoying some playful discovery!
3. Saint-Germain-des-Prés
From the Luxembourg Gardens, take Avenue Bonaparte to the neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Developed around the former Saint-Germain Abbey, this neighborhood became a hub of intellectual and cultural life in Paris after the Second World War, attracting writers and artists such as Marguerite Duras, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, François Truffaut, Picasso, Giacometti, and many more. These creative minds loved to wander the streets of Saint-Germain, soaking in its unique atmosphere and engaging in lively discussions at cafés like Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore.
Today, Saint-Germain is perfect for getting lost in its winding streets or stopping at a charming café for drinks and people-watching.
Elisa’s Local Tip: Saint-Germain is famous for some of the best chocolate shops and pâtisseries in Paris! Don’t miss this Saint-Germain Chocolate Walking Tour, which consistently gets glowing reviews.
4. Sunset at the Eiffel Tower
For the last night of your 2 days in Paris, head to the Eiffel Tower for a true “grand finale” in the City of Light! Climb to the summit and watch the sunset over Paris.
Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is always impressive, but it becomes even more magical at night when the golden floodlights illuminate the structure. When the Eiffel Tower is lit up, it sparkles for the first five minutes of every hour, so keep an eye on your watch to catch the next show!
» Eiffel Tower Opening Hours: daily, with opening hours varying slightly depending on the season (9 a.m. to 0.45 a.m. in summer).
Elisa’s Local Tip: In summer, sunset comes very late. Check out this article on sunset times in Paris to plan your Eiffel Tower visit. Ideally, book a time slot about an hour before sunset, so you have enough time to go through security and explore the exhibition on the Tower’s history while there’s still daylight.
5. Wrap Up Your Time in Paris with a Seine River Cruise
End your day with a nighttime Seine boat tour – perhaps with a glass of champagne in hand – and admire the city’s historical monuments along the way: the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Conciergerie, … and back to Notre-Dame, where your journey began.
Elisa’s Local Tip: During summer, sunset can be as late as 10 p.m. Boat tours usually run until 10:30 p.m., so book the last or second-to-last tour to enjoy the monuments beautifully illuminated. Check out this list of the best Seine River boat tours and what to expect.
What to Visit in Paris in 2 Days – Alternative Approaches
Of course, there are many other interesting things to do in Paris in 2 days, but I couldn’t include everything in a short itinerary! Below, you’ll find more ideas of places to visit in Paris over 2 days:
Rainy Day Swaps
If it rains during the first day of your Paris itinerary, replace the Tuileries Garden with some of the most beautiful covered passages in Paris. Most of the passages on this list are located not far from the Louvre.
If it rains during the second day, trade the stroll around the Luxembourg Gardens for one of the best museums in Paris: the Orsay Museum or the Musée Cluny (medieval period).
If the weather forecast shows rain for your entire stay, read this article on things to do in Paris when it rains for more ideas.
Orsay Museum instead of Louvre Museum
On day 1, visit Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie before heading to the Louvre for a quick visit from the outside, then explore the Tuileries Garden. Alternatively, skip the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden and visit the Le Marais neighborhood instead. This walking tour in Le Marais covers most of its main sights.
On day 2, trade the Luxembourg Gardens for the Orsay Museum after lunch.
How to Extend or Shorten Your Paris Itinerary
Do you need to shorten your trip? Or could you add 1 or 2 extra days? Read my other Paris itineraries for inspiration:
Frequent Asked Questions
Is 2 days in Paris enough?
No, but yes. You won’t see everything – not even close. But 2 days is enough to see the icons (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre), get a feel for the city, and decide if you want to come back. After 15 years living here, I still discover new things!
How Much Money Do I Need for 2 Days in Paris?
The cost of a 2-day trip to Paris can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. I break down daily expenses for different budgets in detail in my article How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost?, so you can plan your itinerary with confidence.
What If It Rains?
This 2-day Paris itinerary is designed to help you enjoy the city, its landmarks, and gardens. For rainy days, check my suggested indoor alternatives and swaps in the chapter above.
What’s the Best Way to Get from the Airport to Paris?
There are several ways to travel from the airport to Paris, depending on your comfort level and budget. I cover the best options in my guides for Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris and Orly Airport to Paris.
Is Paris Safe?
Yes, Paris is generally safe, but keep an eye out for:
- Pickpockets: Common in the Metro, at the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre – keep your bag in front.
- Scams: Petition signers, “found ring” schemes, friendship bracelets – ignore all of them.
- Taxi scams: Always use official taxis (you can see the license number on the door). A taxi from the airport to the city has a flat rate.
Read my full article on safety in Paris for tips that will help you feel more confident while exploring.
And there you have it, a comprehensive Paris 2-day itinerary focused on what’s genuinely worth experiencing, spending one day on the Right Bank and one day on the Left Bank. Not every famous site deserves your limited time – that’s why the perspective of someone who actually lives here makes all the difference
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