EPIC One Day in Paris Itinerary for 2026 (Map & Free PDF!)
How can I spend just one day in Paris? What is the best itinerary for 24 hours in Paris?
As a young backpacker turned experienced world traveler, I’ve traversed Paris half a dozen times at this point, with a few times where I had less than 24 hours to explore the city. And each time, I found different ways to make the most out of my short visit!
As one of the largest cities in Europe, Paris can definitely be overwhelming to try and cram all the must-see attractions into just one day. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the magnificent Louvre Museum and the sophisticated Champs-Elysées, there is so much to see and do here.
Nevertheless, with a bit of planning and strategic navigation, it is possible to cover the highlights of Paris in just 24 hours!
In this post, I’ve not only outlined the best 1 day Paris itinerary, but also provided the perfect self-guided walking map, my very own Parisian budget calculator to guide your spending, and ample information on how to make the most out of your short visit.
With where to stay, how to get around efficiently, the best foods to try, and even a list of my very own personal travel tips, this post has you covered for a perfect 24-hour Parisian experience!
↪️ P.S. – Don’t forget to download my FREE 3-day Paris itinerary below!
The Perfect One Day in Paris Itinerary
So, what should you do with one day in Paris? Well, this ultimate itinerary is here to help you get the most out of your 24 hours in Paris! The itinerary follows the most time and distance-efficient routes, includes meals, and takes into consideration how much time you’ll need at each attraction.
If you decide to change the order in which you visit each site, be sure to check how long it will take you for the new route before proceeding.
As I said, Paris is a big city! If you start visiting attractions without any particular order in mind, you could end up retracing your steps and adding quite a bit of extra travel time to your day. To make it extra simple for you, I’ve included a Google Map below of the route!
This itinerary assumes you flew in early in the morning and will be able to stay overnight. If you can’t, you may need to cut down this itinerary slightly.
If this is your first time in Paris, you’ll probably be heading directly to the Eiffel Tower, so this Paris one day itinerary starts there.
The Eiffel Tower
Once you make your way from the airport into the city center via train, bus, or taxi, make your way over to the Eiffel Tower. This is the most popular attraction in most of Europe, so it’s going to have one of the longest lines and the most people in your pictures!
If you want to go inside it, book your tickets in advance here and get there as early as you can to capture some stunning photographs.
The Eiffel Tower views are well-known for the dazzling perspective you’ll get of the city lights, the Arc de Triomphe, and perhaps even Tuileries Garden!
Arc de Triomphe
From the Eiffel Tower, hop on the metro at Tour Eiffel Station and stay on until you reach the Charles de Gaulle – Etoile – Wagram Station.
This will bring you directly to the magnificent Arc de Triomphe in about 16 minutes (32-minute walk).
Champs-Élysées
After spending some time climbing the stairs and overlooking the city, climb your way back down and grab some breakfast at one of the many street carts selling traditional crêpes at the start of the glamorous Champs-Élysées!
Le Louvre
Window shop your way through this wonderful, tree-lined street while making your way down to the infamous Le Louvre Museum.
You can also hop on the metro to save yourself the 40-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe to Le Louvre, however, the Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in Europe that I think definitely deserves a visit.
↪️ Pro Tip: If you wish to go inside, be sure to get here early to get in line. I’ve witnessed people stand in line for up to 6 hours before, so if you only have one day, this might not be the best idea.
Notre Dame Cathedral
From Le Louvre, make your way over to the infamous Notre Dame Cathedral. This highly embellished church is still in use today and, if you’re lucky, you’ll hear its beautiful bells play loud for everyone across Paris to hear!
If you would like, you can go inside and light a candle for a loved one, but expect quite the line. For 8.50€, you can climb its stunning towers for exciting views of the city.
Latin Quarter
Once you exit the cathedral, you’ll be in one of Paris’ most famous neighborhoods, the Latin Quarter.
Shop around, get lost in all of the cobblestoned streets, and grab a fresh baguette and some local meat and cheese from one of the dozens of boulangeries!
Panthéon
As you make your way through the Latin Quarter, you’ll come across the Panthéon, an 18th-century mausoleum boasting intricate details and centuries of French history.
This is a must-see site for any history buff!
Luxembourg Gardens & Montparnasse
Next, stumble upon the gates to the Luxembourg Gardens (jardin du Luxembourg), stroll the stone pathways across dozens of blooming trees and shrubs, then make your way over to the Montparnasse Tower.
As one of the best lookouts in Paris, you can enjoy a cocktail in style!
Musée d’Orsay
Hop on the metro at Gare Montparnasse and get off at the Musée d’Orsay.
Whether you have time to explore all of its intriguing exhibits or not, it’s a striking building to see nevertheless.
Take a Stroll Over Pont Neuf
Stunning around sunset when the golden hour hits, the Pont Neuf is the oldest standing bridge in Paris!
Offering a gorgeous backdrop for photos and unbeatable views of the city, this marks the perfect ending to any 1 day Paris itinerary.
End: Île de la Cité & Le Consulat
From here, you can either choose to further explore the Île de la Cité or you can hop right on the metro and head over to the 19th arrondissement where you’ll find my favorite cafe in Paris, Le Consulat!
Le Consulat is located in the heart of meandering cobblestone streets, quaint shops, charming boutiques, and will fill you with the quintessential Parisian ambiance you’ve been searching for. They offer a wonderful selection of wine and small plates, and sometimes they even have live music.
This makes for the perfect end to a day in Paris if you’re flying out that night since you can take the metro from Blanche to Opéra where you’ll get on a 35-minute RoissyBus directly to Charles de Gaulle.
If you aren’t leaving that night, you can start making your way over to your accommodation, or you can join the locals in some late-night fun in one of the dozens of bars across the city!
↪️ Have a wine guru in your group? I can relate – French wine is simply incroyable! If so, check out these amazing wine tours from Paris, particularly the ones to Bordeaux!
Map of 1 Day in Paris Itinerary
Now, hear me out. I know this is a lot to fit into a single day itinerary. So, pick what you do and don’t want and add it to the map below! Paris has an incredibly efficient metro system, so you can easily get around by purchasing a day pass. Let’s limit the walking (and blisters), and just do what interests you!
↪️ No matter what you decide to do, be sure to check out when the best time to visit Paris is to guarantee yourself an amazing trip! Looking to hit the beach this summer? Check out these 17 incredible beaches close to Paris!
10 Travel Tips for a Quick Visit to Paris
So, you’ve only got one day to see the best that the City of Lights has to offer… don’t sweat it! These practical tips will help you to understand everything you’ll need to know in order to have a fun and efficient trip.
↪️ 1. Don’t even consider renting a car
I’ll get more into this later, but car rentals are extremely expensive in Paris and will actually slow down your sightseeing. Especially if you plan on visiting during the peak tourist season, traffic is a real nightmare and you can circle for hours looking for a parking spot.
↪️ 2. Start your day as early as possible
If you can, wake up in Paris so you have time to get to the major attractions early. If you plan on getting into Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, or the Eiffel Tower, you’ll want to get in line for tickets well before they open.
↪️ 3. Prioritize your wants
Unless you’re moving at lightning speed, you won’t have time for everything.
It is possible to get to the major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre Dame Cathedral in one day, but be sure to plan accordingly if you want to spend extra time in a particular place.
↪️ 4. Eat on the go
It can be tempting to enjoy a sit down meal at one of the 10 michelin-star restaurants in the city, but owing to French culture, this experience can take upwards of 3-4 hours.
With multiple courses and waiters that only return if you are able to wave them down, this can really cut into your exploring time.
Instead, opt for the wonderful streetside Parisian cafés that allow you to grab a fresh coffee and croissant to go and enjoy it while you wander the different neighborhoods.
↪️ 5. Book tickets in advance
If you know Le Louvre is a top priority for you and you have high hopes of seeing the Mona Lisa, be sure to go online and buy your tickets before getting there.
This can save you hours of waiting in long lines and can get you ahead of hundreds of people!
↪️ 6. Consider a city or walking tour
If you are in a hurry to see a lot of cool attractions in a short amount of time but don’t have the time or energy to buy a map and figure out the best route on your own, consider joining a city tour.
They’ve already mapped out the most efficient routes and best sites, so the hard part is done for you. Best of France Tours is very popular, has over 20 years of experience, and offers both private and public tours.
↪️ 7. Learn a few useful phrases in French
Now, since you’re only visiting Paris for one day, you don’t need to buy a travel guide or study the French language in depth.
Many people in Paris do speak some level of English, but it’s always polite to learn a few phrases including, “please”, “thank you”, “how much?”, and “can I have the bill, please?”
↪️ 8. Have some local currency
If you’re coming from outside of the European Union, you should stop at a local bank and pick up some euros before getting to Paris.
By using cash, you’ll receive a better conversion rate and you’ll be able to avoid any foreign transaction fees from your bank. Just remember to always exchange your money at a bank and never on the street or at a streetside ATM!
↪️ 9. Avoid street games
Street gambling is one of the most common ways tourists lose out on their money in Europe.
Avoid these games, as everyone standing around is often in on the scam and will try to persuade you to play.
↪️ 10. Be kind
There is a stereotype around Parisians not liking foreigners, and that’s simply not true! Just like anywhere you go, the locals expect you to be polite and attempt to speak in their language, even if it’s only for a few words.
Kindness and hospitality will get you a long way and will help you to have an enjoyable experience.
If you’re interested in visiting Paris but aren’t sure if it’s safe, check out my article: Is Paris Safe? A Full Guide on Safety in Paris!
How to Get to and from the Airports in Paris
Charles de Gaulle Airport via Train
When arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you have three options of getting to the Paris city center.
The most common way is to take the metro, or train, which will get you there in about 50 minutes. It costs 10€ for adults and trains leave every 10-20 minutes, so this is both convenient and cost-effective.
You can purchase tickets right in the terminal at one of the kiosks when you arrive and there usually isn’t a wait to buy tickets.
Via Taxi
The next method is to leave the airport and hail a taxi. This is the fastest method of getting to Paris as it only takes about 30 minutes, but since you’ll be paying a flat rate, it’s quite expensive.
Typically, taxies from Charles de Gaulle airport range from 55-60€. If you really want to get the most out of your time in Paris, this is the fastest way of getting there.
Via Bus
The last option is to take the bus. This is the slowest option of getting into the city as it usually takes between 70-80 minutes.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, it’s also the cheapest option ranging from 6-11.50€, depending on which bus you take, lines with stops or direct.
You can purchase your ticket right when you walk onto the bus so there’s no need to find a kiosk ahead of time.
Orly Airport via Metro
If you’re arriving into Orly Airport, you’ll have similar options to Charles de Gaulle.
However, since there are no direct train lines between Orly Airport and the Paris city center, the fastest method of getting there is to take the Orlyval metro to the Anthony Train Station where you’ll then change lines to either the RER B or RER C train. The trip typically takes about one hour and costs around 12€.
Via Bus
You can also take a bus, both the OrlyBus or a coach from Le Bus Direct are available.
During peak season, the OrlyBus can become quite crowded and uncomfortable, whereas the Le Bus Direct coaches offer more room and bring you further into the heart of the city. The OrlyBus costs 9.50€ and the coaches cost 12€.
The OrlyBus will bring you to the southern part of the city where you’ll need to connect to the Paris metro to get to the major attractions.
While the Le Bus Direct coaches are slightly more expensive, they have stops on the Champs-Élysées, near the Eiffel Tower, and Gare Montparnasse.
↪️ With all this talk about Paris, you might be wondering where the City of Lights is located, or even more so…Is France a Continent?
Where to Stay in Paris
If you’re like me and this question is totally overwhelming, I get it! How are you supposed to know where you want to stay in Paris if you only have one night?
Every arrondissement is different in terms of ambiance, sites and attractions, bars and restaurants, shops and boutiques, and so on. That’s why I’ve created a comprehensive list of everything there is to see and do in each arrondissement – check it out here under the “best neighborhoods to stay in Paris”!
I’m also going to go a little more in-depth on my favorite neighborhoods to stay in Paris and where I think you should stay if you only have one night.
7th Arrondissement
If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the City of Lights, look no further than the 7th arrondissement. Home to the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River, this exciting area boasts trendy shops, cute cafés, souvenir shops, and sweeping views of the city.
Since you’ll likely be trying to get to the Eiffel Tower, why not stay in the most famous neighborhood of all?
Montmartre
If you’re looking for a truly romantic escape with your significant other, there is nowhere I recommend more than Montmartre. Located in the 18th arrondissement, this neighborhood is like a real-life fairytale!
Tightknit networks of cobblestone streets wind their way around this hilltop neighborhood studded with local shops, art galleries and street artists, the incredible Sacré Coeur, and the most beautiful orange glow during sunset.
If this sounds like the perfect fit for you and your loved one, be sure to walk down to the Moulin Rouge (about a 13 minute walk from the Sacré Coeur) and catch a late-night cabaret with dinner for the ultimate romantic evening!
Le Marais
The last neighborhood I want to mention is Le Marais. It is the most centrally located neighborhood in Paris, which means easy transportation to anywhere in the city, and you’ll be surrounded by dozens of fun sites and attractions.
While this neighborhood is also one of the busiest with tourists, if you only have one day it’s the best way to see the majority of what Paris has to offer in a short amount of time!
Divided between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, this hip neighborhood has the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, cafés, and nightclubs of anywhere in the city. Popular among people of all ages, there truly is something here for everyone.
Le Marais offers the classic Parisian experience most tourists are looking for: glamorous scenery, medieval alleyways, and plenty of hidden gems.
Le Marais is one of my personal favorite neighborhoods since I can relax with an espresso on the Seine River in the morning, but can find myself enjoying late-night live music in one of the dozens of bars lining the streets once darkness sets in.
Super trendy, chic, hip, and just plain fun, Le Marais is the best neighborhood to stay in if you want to have a perfect day in Paris!
Once you find where you want to stay, you can create your very own one night in Paris itinerary based on the previously mentioned activities. In my opinion, Paris is even more beautiful at night!
How To Get Around Paris in a Day
Paris is well known for its combination of long streets lined with tall, highly embellished, French buildings and short, narrow alleyways studded with cobblestones and plenty of nooks and crannies for exploring.
But, no matter where you go, you will always find a lot of people, a lot of traffic, and plenty of bicycles!
Walk or Take the Metro
On our first day in Paris, we walked or took the metro everywhere. And, to be perfectly honest, we wouldn’t have done it any other way! This provided us with the most optimal amount of time to explore each place and to notice special sites and shops we wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
The metro was great for getting us between attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré Cœur due to their long distance between each other (about 5.5 kilometers, over an hour of walking).
But, when getting between the Eiffel Tower, the Latin Quarter, and Le Louvre, we found that we saw so much more of the city and had the best interactions with people just by walking along the Seine River.
Paris is a true gem of Europe with so much to eat, do, and see! To truly experience the most of it and dive deeper into the Parisian culture, you need to walk its streets… literally! And a one day in Paris walking tour will help you do just that.
Ride Bikes
Renting bicycles is also a great way of seeing the city if you only have one day in Paris and aren’t someone who enjoys group tours (we’re right there with you!) then bicycles are a wonderful option.
In fact, it’s actually how most locals get around the city. Due to the high expenses of owning or renting cars, very few locals actually own cars. Instead, you’ll see them walking or biking along the city streets or pulling out their monthly pass at the metro station.
Car Rentals
If you haven’t noticed it yet, this is a tell-tale sign that you shouldn’t rent a car. When the locals consistently display why and how it’s far more affordable and efficient to get from place to place without a vehicle, you should listen!
Not only in Paris, but also in most other major cities in Europe (if not all of them), the best way to get around is a combination of walking and the local public transportation system. Rental cars are expensive and can add quite a bit of stress to your trip, especially if you end up in an accident.
Bicycles are fun for those with limited time or those who have limited walking capabilities, are affordable, and can typically be locked up in one of the many available bicycle racks that line many European cities.
Overall, opt to walk, bike, take advantage of public transportation, or a combination of the three in order to get the most out of your 1 day in Paris!
↪️ Pro Tip: Be sure to pack comfortable, supportive walking shoes that can handle several miles of walking per day, without the need for band aids to cover all of your blisters!
One Day in Paris from London
There are several ways to travel from the bustling city of London to the romantic city of Paris. The fastest route is by air, with direct flights usually taking just under 1.5 hours from London Heathrow to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
But, if you’re in for a more scenic route, consider taking the Eurostar train from St Pancras International directly to Paris Gare du Nord. The journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes and offers picturesque views of the English and French countryside.
Upon arrival in Paris, consider purchasing a Paris Visite Travel Pass for unlimited travel in the city on buses, the metro, trams, and RER trains. This is a convenient and economical way to explore the city, especially if you’re planning on visiting several attractions throughout the day.
If you’re planning to visit London for the day, especially if you’re returning on the same day, it’s advisable to focus on a few key attractions, utilize the metro for transportation, savor some delicious French cuisine, and then make your way back to the train station for your return journey.
Although it will be a fast-paced experience, it is undeniably worthwhile if you’re seeking a bustling day in two of Europe’s most renowned cities!
The Best Foods to Eat in Paris
Paris is a foodie’s dream with its hundreds of gourmet, streetside cafés, 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, and endless divine restaurants and bars serving up impressive gastronomic delicacies!
The best thing about Paris is that high-end cuisine isn’t out of reach for anyone… even the penny-pinching budget traveler.
There are endless options for top-notch boulangeries, patisseries, and bakeries scattered across the city, so no matter where you are, you’ll always have at least a few good options to choose from.
It is always best to avoid the heavily trafficked tourist hotspots including the streets surrounding the major attractions, but even in those spots you can usually find some hidden gems.
When I travel to Paris, the very first thing I do is buy myself a fresh crêpe filled with chocolate and strawberries. If you have a sweet tooth like I do, it’s best to start your day off right with either this tasty treat or a traditional pain au chocolate!
Chewy, light, and oh so delicious, these make for the perfect breakfast or snack choices. Just grab yourself a cappuccino and you’ll be exploring the city like a local in no time!
The best part is that Paris has small crêperie carts lining the city so you can easily grab these sweet treats while on the go.
Many patisseries and bakeries also have their cases stocked very early in the morning, so don’t worry about not being able to find breakfast on your way out the door. You’re in Paris… there’s food everywhere!
For lunch, grab yourself a seat at a streetside café (one of my favorite things to do in Paris!) if you’re willing to take a break from sightseeing and grab yourself either a Croque Monsieur or a Croque Madame.
These French favorites are very close in ingredients, with the Croque Monsieur being a hot, ham and cheese sandwich broiled with additional cheese on top, and the Croque Madame adding a little something extra with a fried or poached egg atop the sizzling cheese layer.
Simply scrumptious, these hot, savory sandwiches make for the perfect quick lunch while sightseeing in Paris. If you want to add a little bit of sweetness, some restaurants even include the famous Monte Cristo on their menus- a classic Croque Monsieur with the addition of raspberry jam and just a touch of powdered sugar.
This sweet, savory, and salty dish makes for a wonderful lunch or dinner (or even breakfast if you like to live a little wildly) and can be found all across Paris. Often served with wine and salad for lunch, these are one of my favorite foods to eat when visiting Paris!
If you aren’t looking to sit down anywhere and would prefer to stay on the move during your one day in Paris, keep an eye out for food trucks. Usually scattered around the Eiffel Tower and near the popular museums, you can find a quick, hot bite while exploring the city.
When we were on a time crunch, our favorite thing was to buy a fresh baguette and some local meats and cheese and make a lunch for ourselves on one of the benches near the Eiffel Tower. Quick, easy, affordable, and with a great view, lunch couldn’t have been better!
Next stop… dinner. Now, you will literally have endless options for this meal from pre-made sandwiches from the local grocer to multi-hour, multi-course meals in classy, French bistros. However, if you only have one day in Paris, it’s likely you’ll be looking for a quicker option that fits nicely into your evening.
If not, be sure to sit down and indulge in a heavenly plate of steak frites. Literally translating to “steak and fries”, this decadent dish defines Parisian comfort food.
Pair it with a savory bowl of onion soup for the ultimate sit-down dinner experience! If you don’t have time for multiple courses, opt for one of the dozens of eclectic burger joints in the Latin Quarter or, my personal favorite European dinner, a doner kebab!
Doner kebabs are made up of warm pitas stuffed with sweet or spicy sauces, refreshing tzatziki sauce, shaved crispy pork, and more! They are completely customizable with plenty of fresh vegetables and different kinds of vinegar and make the perfect (semi-healthy) dinner on the go.
No matter how much time you have for eating in Paris, you can be sure there’s always good food waiting for you right around the corner! Do your best to avoid the super touristy areas around the major attractions and keep an eye out for restaurants offering “prix fixe” menus.
These offer you a specific number of courses for one set price, creating a wonderful experience at a reasonable rate that is available to everyone!
↪️ Pro Tip: If you plan on sitting down at a restaurant, keep in mind that the French typically eat dinner in very small portions over the course of several hours.
Paris is usually better about catering to tourists, but you will still need to politely ask your waiter for the bill when you would like to leave. They’ll never bring it to you unless you ask, and you may need to give a polite head nod to get the server’s attention if you need something.
The Best Paris Day Tours
If you’re short on time on your next visit to Paris, consider joining a guided tour like the ones below! Tours are a great way to help you meet locals, try the local food, and learn a lot about Parisian culture and history in a short amount of time.
Two of these are fantastic food tours, but if you prefer to explore the city via tuk-tuk, want a historical tour from a local, or want to learn more about French music, there are plenty of options for those, as well!
Paris Daily Costs & Budget Calculator
So, how much does it cost to spend 1 day in Paris? There is no doubting that Paris is expensive, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be affordable! Especially if you are only visiting for a day, it’s pretty easy to keep costs down.
If you aren’t on a college student’s budget, then you’ll be able to experience the more luxurious side of Paris. If you are, then I have some of the best well-kept secrets to visiting Paris on a budget for you!
Below is a breakdown of the average cost of each form of transportation, attractions, accommodations, meals, and other possible costs.
Keep in mind that these averages can increase or decrease depending on the time of the year and even the day of the week, and may vary among arrondissements in Paris.
Transportation
↪️ Bus
If you decide to buy your ticket on the bus, the price is €2. If you purchase your ticket ahead of time in the metro station (known as a T+ ticket), you’ll save a few cents and won’t have to talk to the driver when boarding.
↪️ Metro
Single, one-way tickets are very affordable at only €1.90 or you can purchase a booklet of 10 rides for €16.
This is usually the fastest and most affordable method of getting around the city if you are staying between zones 1-3. Zones up to 5 usually cost significantly more, so be sure to check your destinations before purchasing a pass.
↪️ Bicycle
Depends on how long you plan to rent the bike for and which type of bike you rent, but it typically ranges between €20-30 for a full 24 hours including a helmet.
Hourly rates vary by shop (average is around €3-4 per hour) and most shops require a security deposit or credit card hold that is lifted once the bike is returned.
Attractions
Eiffel Tower – tickets range from €10.50 to €26.10 depending on if you decide to take the stairs or the elevator and if you decide to stop at the second floor or continue all the way up to the summit.
Le Louvre – admission is €17 but if you are under 18 years old, or are under 26 years old and are a resident of the EEA admission is free. Closed on Tuesdays.
Musée d’Orsay – tickets are €16 for adults and €13 for adults accompanying children under 18 years old. The first Sunday of every month is free for visitors, but you must book your compulsory reservation ahead of time! It’s free, just use the link to let them know you’ll be coming. Closed on Mondays.
Arc de Triomphe – tickets are €13 for adults to take a self-guided walking tour of the monument. If you are an EU citizen or resident under 25 years old or are under 18 years old, admission is free! Open daily.
Sacré Cœur – open for exploring daily and admission is free!
Pantheon – admission is €11.50 for adults, but similar to the other attractions, there are a few ways you can get in for free depending on your age and citizenship. Open daily.
Accommodations
Budget Hostel
Depending on if you don’t mind sleeping in a public dormitory with a single shared bathroom or if you would prefer a private room, hostels can range anywhere from €25-130 per night.
Mid-Range Hotel
Typically you’ll find clean, reasonably sized hotel rooms for between €130-250 per night. This will differ depending on the time of the year and the arrondissement, but be sure to book as far in advance as possible for the best rates.
Especially in the summer, expect to find 3-star hotels for well into the €300/night range.
Luxury Hotel
Luxury hotels in Paris can range anywhere from €350-20,000 per night! Yes, you read that right… think dreamy spas, steamy hot tubs, and infinity pools overlooking the Eiffel Tower for this kind of cash.
Meals
Breakfast
This is the cheapest meal of the day since most places only serve croissants and pastries along with some form of coffee (espresso, latte, cappuccino, etc.).
You can expect to spend between €3-7 per person for a pastry and coffee depending on the shop and location. Again, everything around major attractions will be more expensive than in the smaller side streets.
Lunch
Many restaurants close during the middle of the day from around 12-3pm to go home, so “lunch”, or the afternoon meal, is usually served around 4pm.
Depending on if you choose to eat at a sit-down café for one of those popular Croque Monsieurs, or if you plan to just grab a crêpe from a street cart, this meal can cost anywhere between €10-€17.
Dinner
As the most expensive meal of the day, dinner can vary greatly in price. Michel-star restaurants can set you back a couple of hundred euros per person, whereas if you find a nice, mid-range restaurant with a prix fixe menu, you can eat several courses for only between €22-€35 per person.
If you’re seeking the most budget-friendly option, I suggest having a picnic with local finds from the supermarket. Their breads, meats, and cheeses are always fresh and make for a scrumptious, romantic meal!
Miscellaneous Costs
↪️ Pickpocketing – unfortunately, this is an issue in many popular tourist areas of Paris. Always keep your belongings close and in a zipped-up bag, or it could cost you.
↪️ ATM Fees – if you know you may be stopping in Paris ahead of time and aren’t already carrying some cash on you, it’s a good idea to get some before getting there. Not all banks and credit cards promise no foreign transaction fees which can add up quickly if you’re making several purchases throughout the day.
↪️ Tipping – while it’s not required or even customary in Paris like it is in the U.S. or Canada, if you receive good service it’s nice to leave between 5-10% or more if you plan on returning to the same restaurant more than once.
↪️ Souvenirs – depending on what you buy, from shot glasses to picture frames or clothing, items can range from €2-€60 typically.
To help guide your one day Paris budget, I’ve created my very own Paris calculator below! It doesn’t include the cost of transportation, so you’ll need to add that depending on the form of transportation you choose to use and how often you use it.
FAQ
Can You Do Paris in One Day?
While 3 days is my preferred minimum length of time for exploring Paris, you can still see a lot in one day.
Luckily, Paris has a fantastic metro system and many of the major attractions allow you to purchase tickets in advance, so there’s no reason you can’t knock a lot off your Parisian bucket list!
Now, you’ll still need to pick and choose which sites are most important for you to see since you most likely won’t get to all of them.
Paris is a very big city so it can take a while to get from place to place, so in order to avoid disappointment, make a numbered list of what you want to see and do from most important to least important.
This way, if you don’t get to the last few items on your list, they weren’t essential to your trip anyway.
Is It Worth Going to Paris for One Day?
It is definitely worth going to Paris for one day! Thanks to the city’s efficient metro system, you can easily see a lot of the top attractions in just a day.
Even if you’re trying to see Paris in an afternoon, you’ll find it relatively simple to make a plan with a few things you want to do and see.
I mean, sure, there are plenty of things you’re going to miss out on, as well, but most travelers don’t visit Paris just once anyway! Being one of the largest cities in Europe, Paris requires several trips to really get a good feel for its energetic vibe, so don’t fret if you’re limited on time.
This will be just the first of many stops in Paris in your life, so plan ahead and be deliberate with your time management.
How Do You Spend a Perfect Day in Paris?
To spend a perfect day in Paris, you have two options. You can make the most of it either by visiting the city’s most iconic sites, or if you prefer to avoid tourists, you can do a little DIY day tour inclusive of a picnic in the park, some wine at a cafe, and maybe a museum or two.
If you do decide to hit all of the cities top attractions, then start your day early with a visit to the magnificent Eiffel Tower, taking advantage of the morning light for fantastic photos (plus the lines will be shorter!)
Then, get on the metro and head to the Louvre Museum where you can see the famous Mona Lisa amongst countless other artistic treasures. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the quaint cafes in the Latin Quarter before heading to the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral to hear the church bells ring in the afternoon.
Spend the rest of your afternoon roaming the picturesque streets of Montmartre, finishing at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking views of the city at sunset.
To cap off your day, enjoy a traditional French dinner at a local bistro or a nighttime river cruise on the Seine, taking in the beautifully lit buildings and bridges.
Remember, Paris isn’t going anywhere, so don’t try to cram everything into one day. Consider your top interests, and make them a priority.
What Can You Do in Paris for Half a Day?
If you only have half a day to spend in Paris, I get it! Sometimes during travel, you barely have enough time for sightseeing, but just don’t see the point in sitting in an airport terminal or train station for several hours when there is a whole world out there waiting to be explored.
If you don’t even have one full day in Paris, I still highly recommend visiting even if it’s just for a few hours.
If you have between 4-6 hours in Paris, you’ll likely only have enough time to try the food, take some pictures of the Eiffel Tower, run up and down a few different popular streets, grab a souvenir, and head back to the airport. But still totally worth it!
If you only have half a day in Paris, I suggest you try to fit these sites, attractions, and fun things on your list:
↪️ Eiffel Tower & the 7th arrondissement
↪️ Le Louvre, a Seine River Cruise & Notre Dame Cathedral
↪️ Arc de Triomphe & Les Champs-Elysées
Depending on how much time you’re spending in each place and if you use the metro or not, you may be able to fit more into your day or you may not have enough time for it all.
Either way, any amount of time in Paris is a whole lot better than any amount of time in an airport!
What Should I Do if I Have 1.5 Days in Paris?
If you have a day and a half in Paris, I’d start your day with a stroll along the River Seine, taking in the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Afterward, head to Montmartre for some of the best views of Paris from the top of the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. The, spend the middle of the first day exploring the vibrant and lively Latin Quarter, stopping for lunch along the way.
Finish up your day with a visit to Le Louvre, one of the world’s most renowned art museums! After a long day of sightseeing, take some time to rest and refuel at one of the many restaurants and cafés in the city.
Then end your night with a romantic stroll down the Champs-Élysées, soaking up the lights and atmosphere of one of Europe’s most iconic streets.
Kick off your second day with a visit to Arc de Triomphe for some amazing views of the city. Then, take a walk to the Eiffel Tower and snap some photos from the first level before heading back down for lunch.
You also have the option of ascending the Eiffel Tower on the evening of your first day since the city lights are absolutely breathtaking at night!
Then, spend the afternoon exploring one of Paris’s charming parks such as Tuileries Garden or Luxembourg Garden. Finish your day with a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral, admiring its Gothic architecture and taking in the religious history of this iconic building.
From here, you can either head back to the airport or train station if you’re out of time or head to one of Paris’s lively neighborhoods such as Le Marais or Montmartre for some great restaurants and bars if you still have time.
This is the perfect way to finish off your 1.5 days in Paris with good food, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere!
Is There a Paris Itinerary for 2 Days?
If you’re looking for a two days in Paris itinerary that includes all the primary stops, use the 1.5 day itinerary above.
It may sound like you’re missing out on doing more, but to be honest, you’re going to be thankful you have the extra time to get around, get a glass of wine, stop for pictures and croissants, and so forth.
Paris is a very big city, so always remind yourself that you can come back! As one of the easiest destinations in the world to visit regardless of where you’re coming from, do yourself a favor and give yourself the extra time you need for exploring.
You can always add more to your itinerary while you’re there, but adding too much to your plate ahead of time will only add to your stress and may lead to disappointment if you don’t get to everything.
What Should I Wear for a Day in Paris?
When visiting Paris for the day, it is best to wear comfortable shoes and an outfit that is stylish yet appropriate.
For men, a collared shirt paired with slacks or chinos would be suitable. For women, a nice dress or blouse with a skirt will be perfect for mild days in Paris.
Keep in mind that the locals typically dress nicely when out and about so don’t forget to add some accessories to finish off your look! It’s also recommended to bring a light jacket as the weather can change quickly throughout the day even if you’re visiting during the warmer summer months.
These outfits will get you through most days between May and September, but outside of this timeframe a stylish jacket, hat, gloves, and rain boots may be more appropriate.
Is Paris Good for a Day Trip?
Paris makes for an incredible day trip option and, in fact, there are dozens of options for spectacular day trips for you! From Reims to the Palace of Versailles, you’re sure to find something that suits your preferences.
Preferably, if you only have one day in the city, you’ll return to Paris on another trip for an extended period so you’ll have time for all of the best things to do and even to visit a few of these 27 Best Day Trips from Paris!
If you have at least two days in Paris and are looking for some spectacular day trip options, then these 11 Top-Rated Normandy Tours from Paris should be on your radar! You may want to check out the Best Time to Visit Normandy first though.
French Language Resources
If you want to brush up on your language skills before your trip to Paris, check out these fantastic language learning resources!
Good Morning in French: 17 Helpful French Greetings
How to Say Good Night in French 7 Different Ways
1-10 in French: Learn to Count from 1-10+ in French (with Pronunciations)
How to Say Nice to Meet You in French 15+ Ways
What Time Is It in French 11+ Ways: How to Ask and Tell Time in French
33+ Ways to Say Thank You in French
Saying No in French 31+ Ways (& Audio Pronunciation)
Merry Christmas in French 17+ Ways
Whether you have one month, one week, or one day in Paris, there is so much to do, eat and see that you’ll never be disappointed!
