How To Spend The Perfect One Day in Paris (2024)
Planning how to spend one day in Paris and feeling overwhelmed by the options?
Some of you might have binge-watched Emily in Paris and become captivated by all the places that were shown in the series.
Wondering how you could visit Paris without having to relocate there for a job like Emily?
As someone who has lived in Paris, I know it’s possible to capture the magic of the city in a single day if you plan well.
Previously in my article, I said that I hated Paris because I got pickpocketed in this so-called city of love and lights. YES!
However, after having lived the Parisian lifestyle, my feelings towards the city have shifted into a love-hate relationship, but one thing is certain: it’s always worth visiting 🥐🥖
I’ve always been fortunate to be coming back to Paris, whether it’s for a short transit, a holiday, or even for work. And sometimes, I only have a day to cover this city of pickpockets 🤪
Let me take you on a stroll on how to spend one day in Paris, visiting the most iconic landmarks, and delicious food stops, and enjoying its unforgettable atmosphere.
Are you ready to spend one day in Paris? On y va les gars!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links. I hope you find the information here useful! Merci beaucoup 😀
Related Travel in France Posts:
- Living the Parisian life – How it feels like living in Paris
- The Truth About Pickpockets In Paris
- Episode 1: The Real Truth of Living with a French Mom
- How To Spend Your Sunday In Paris (Like A Français)
- One Day in Marseille: Uncover Astonishing Local Treasures
How To Spend The Perfect One Day in Paris
Bonjour Paris! I’d recommend flying in the night before or catching an early flight to ensure that you’re well-rested and ready to start your day fresh and super early the next day.
I’ve prepared this itinerary to avoid backtracking and focus on a smooth journey. Get ready to do a lot of walking, as walking is the norm here.
But don’t worry, you don’t have to walk all the way 😛 Paris has an excellent metro system, and stations are just a few minutes apart.
Let’s get down to your one day in Paris walking and taking the metro like a pro!
Read More: Finding the Suitable RATP Travel Passes for Your Stay
Morning
I remember when I lived in Paris with my host mom, she made me walk to the town under the scorching sun, in the middle of summer.
It felt like I was doing cardio for an hour. I was drenched in sweat!
For someone like me, it felt like I went through hell because I am so used to driving everywhere in my car back home, in Malaysia.
Eventually, I saw myself adapting to the norm and enjoying the beautiful scenery while walking from my class to my host home.
But don’t worry, you don’t have to walk all the way, Paris has an excellent metro system, and stations are just a few minutes apart.
Sometimes, walking a few blocks might be quicker than taking the metro, especially in the heart of the city.
Cafe Carette
To start your day, you should grab breakfast at a renowned cafe: Cafe Carette located near Trocadéro.
Paris holds a particularly special reputation for hot chocolate. I don’t recommend starting your day without having one 😉
So, go to Cafe Carette and order one of their signatures, hot chocolate. I swear it tastes like heaven and I LOVED it so much!
Get the Petit Dejeuner Carette menu, and you will have everything you need to try out, from chocolat chaud, croissants, orange juice, and toast with a spread of your liking.
But don’t let me stop you right there! You can also get their famous macarons and other pastries from this cafe.
Imagine dipping a freshly baked croissant into the hot chocolate, savoring every taste of both while gazing at one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
It’s the bougie Parisian way to start your day!
Another reason to go here is that you will get the best view of the Eiffel Tower as well! It is a bit hidden from the terraces, but within a few minutes of walking, you will see it clearly.
The only downside is that the morning sun will be right behind your back. Hence, it is not an ideal photo spot with the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero.
💡 Practical Information: The queue can be long during the weekend, but it moves pretty fast. Come in between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. for breakfast, as the queue gets longer as brunch time approaches.
Eiffel Tower
After le petit déjeuner (breakfast), walk to the iconic Eiffel Tower. For some people, leaving Paris without visiting this tower is a SIN, and I couldn’t agree more!
So, make sure you stop by and spend some time admiring its architectural beauty and stunning views. You can either stop at Place du Trocadero or walk down to Champ de Mars to get a closer look!
I wouldn’t suggest going up the Eiffel Tower if you only have one day in Paris. Timing can be quite tight.
But if you still want to go, be sure to book the elevator ride option up the Eiffel Tower, which you can choose when you purchase the ticket prior to your trip.
Get more details about tickets and other FAQs here.
Options are as below (some with bundle deals!):
- Eiffel Tower Guided Access to 2nd Floor
- Eiffel Tower Tickets WITH Summit Access
- Eiffel Tower Second Floor Tour and Summit Option by ELEVATOR
Otherwise, another way to enjoy a view of Paris from the top with a nice view of the Eiffel Tower is to go up the Arc de Triomphe, which will be your next stop.
Arc de Triomphe
To get here, you can walk (30 minutes) or take metro line 6 from Trocadéro to Charles de Gaulle—Étoile.
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. It honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars.
The names of the generals and battles are engraved on its inner and outer surfaces.
The terrace offers panoramic views of the city, but to reach it, you’d need to climb 284 steps. I know that’s a lot, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Good news for those who are not keen on climbing up! They have an elevator service that will bring you to the attic. From there, you need to climb about 46 steps to reach the terrace at the top.
The opening hours vary throughout the week, so it’s best to double-check online before your visit.
Be sure to use the tunnel passage to get across the streets to avoid getting caught in the baffling roundabout (Place de l’Etoile) around the Arc.
Access to the center of the roundabout by the tunnel passage is free, and you do not need to queue for it. The entrance is located next to the queue for those who’d like to go up.
💡 Practical Information: If you see a queue, follow it right to the front of the queue, and you’ll see there is a separation at the entrance. Take the one next to it; you’ll eventually see people go up to the center of the roundabout.
Book Here: One Access to The Rooftop Please
Stroll down the Champs-Élysées
Once you have admired the historic Arc, take a stroll down one of the world’s most famous and beautiful avenues.
I’m sure you are familiar with these lyrics:
“Aux Champs-Élysées
Aux Champs-Élysées
Au soleil, sous la pluie
À midi ou à minuit
Il y a tout c’que vous voulez
Aux Champs-Élysées”
This famous song tells you how you can find anything and everything on Champs Elysees, no matter what the time or the weather is. It’s like a love story bound to happen on the avenue.
Ahh… so romantic!
If you walk from one end to another end of Champs Elysees, you’ll find out that the avenue connects two architectural gems of Paris, which are Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde.
💡 Fun Fact: If you look on the map, you will also see that the Arc de Triomphe is actually connected to Place de la Concorde by one long avenue. If you continue further down Place de la Concorde, you’ll pass by Jardin de Tuileries and end up at the Musée de Louvre.
Just like in the song, you can indulge in some window shopping or a shopping spree, enjoy culinary delights, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Champs-Élysées is also home to several luxury brands, including Chanel, Lacoste, Cartier, and others. Certain brands have the lowest prices in Europe, so do check out your favorite brand while you’re here!
Pastries Shopping At Ladurée
Paris and tearooms go hand in hand, but I don’t want you to crack your head to decide which one to go to, so, I highly recommend going to Ladurée.
It’s not just a patisserie shop; it’s a mix of a fancy tea salon, a nice restaurant, and a chocolatier that has been around for 160 years, making it both an old and iconic place.
With their mint green accents and white checkerboard floors – you will be transported to Paris in the 19th century.
Ladurée is home to the best macarons in Paris. These colorful cute sandwich cookies were invented by Ladurée in the 1830s.
Not only that, Ladurée featured on TV shows like Gossip Girl, and movies like Marie Antoinette. So, I think it’s fair to say that this place has earned its “celebrity” status.
Now that I said this place is famous, don’t worry about the budget.
From enjoying French champagne for a special occasion to sampling their famous hot chocolate and breakfast pastries, you can find something without blowing our budget.
If you’re not into macarons, you can try their wide range of savory dishes, such as sandwiches and salads, for lunch.
They serve the smoothest omelet made up of ham, tomatoes, mushrooms, cheese, and other ingredients.
Finally, they also sell souvenirs such as macaroon-shaped keyrings, tote bags, scented candles, and more.
So, let this be your next stop for your Instagram pictures and maybe some merchandise for your loved ones!
Midday
Seine River Cruise
Afterwards, head over to the Seine River. I know what you’re thinking.
Yes, it’s the same river that was deemed unsafe for the swimming athletes at the Paris Olympics this year due to the high level of E. coli in the water.
But don’t worry—you won’t be swimming here. Instead, you’ll be enjoying a scenic Seine River Cruise ride.
This boat ride offers picturesque views of Paris’s most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Musée d’Orsay.
You can choose to have lunch on the cruise itself. The lunch option is available while you buy the tickets online, or you can walk in and get them on-site as well.
This way you can save up on your time and head on towards the next stop in this itinerary.
Pick your preferences here:
- Combo Deals: Seine River Sightseeing Combo Cruise Experience
- Cruise with Food: Seine River Cruise with Lunch/Dinner
- Cruising Experience Only? River Seine Cruise in Paris by Vedettes de Paris
- Hop On Hop Off Boat Tour: Seine River by Batobus
Lunch At Francette
But if you prefer to have something outside the cruise, I’d highly recommend trying out a nice place for lunch, which is Francette, a floating restaurant on the Seine.
Get off at the Eiffel Tower or Pont Alexandre III and walk for 10-15 minutes to reach this restaurant.
The place is known for homemade foie gras, flower-dressed ceviche, Sole entière des côtes françaises, pork belly, and a wide selection of wines.
Set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, this is an experience not to be missed!
I love to go to restaurants with a 4.5-star rating on Google, and this is one of my favorite dining places in Paris—just look at their customer reviews! If you decide to go for this, do book your reservation in advance here!
Insider tips: The best time to go is actually during dinner, as you will have an excellent view of the Eiffel Tower at night, all light up and shining!
The Louvre Museum
After a delicious lunch, make your way to the world-famous and world’s largest art Museum, home to masterpieces like the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Mona Lisa, and the Venus de Milo!
To fully explore the museum, you need at least 1.5 – 3 hours, which is difficult to fit into one day’s itinerary. Again, the timing can be quite tight, so I wouldn’t suggest visiting inside the museum if you only have one day in Paris.
I highly recommend admiring the stunning architecture from the outside and taking some cool pictures as well!
But if you do want to go hunt for the Mona Lisa and don’t mind skipping the rest of the spots, be a savvy traveler and check out these highlights in just two hours.
Sainte-Chapelle
A short and easy walk from the Louvre, head to Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic-style chapel known for its mesmerizing 13th-century stained-glass art windows that depict biblical scenes. You’ll learn a lot about French history here!
As it’s a national treasure, security is pretty tight. You will have to pass through a metal detector to enter. Don’t be shocked if the police or security guards scan and search your bag.
Book here:
- Notre-Dame Island Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie Guided Tour
- Sainte-Chapelle Entrance Ticket in Paris
Optional Routes
From here onwards, you can either visit Place Dauphine and Pont Neuf or head directly to the famous Notre Dame.
- Pont Neuf or Place Dauphine
Pont Neuf is the oldest stone bridge along the Seine River in Paris. It’s a historical monument that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage together with the Seine River Banks.
The bridge is also famously known for love locks/ the padlocks placed by lovers. You must have seen this in some movies.
If you were planning to place love locks on this bridge, it’s now illegal due to the damage caused by the weight of the thousands of locks, leading to safety issues.
Located very close to Pont Neuf (within walking distance), Place Dauphine, one of Paris’ oldest squares, is deemed to be a hidden haven of peace in Paris.
Unlike other crowded tourist areas, Place Dauphine is quiet and intimate making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a coffee, or sit on the benches and take in the Parisian charm.
It’s famous because it’s filled with classic Parisian buildings, historic art galleries, and elegant cobblestone streets.
It’s referred to as a ‘square’ despite its triangular shape. In French, the word “place” refers to a public square or open space.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
Located across the street ( Île de la Cité) from Sainte-Chapelle is Notre-Dame Cathedral, another gothic masterpiece known for its grand architecture.
Unfortunately, it’s temporarily closed due to a fire incident and will be reopened in December 2024. I actually witnessed it burning and on fire that night; it was sad and scary.
So, if you’re planning to visit Paris in December, do check out for the opening dates. As of now, you can still explore the architecture from the outside.
Book here: Notre Dame de Paris (with Audio Guide)
Afternoon
Grab some delicious pastry at Odette
It’s afternoon now, and since Paris is the land of the best pastries in the world, I’d suggest you make a pit stop at Odette, a famous pastry shop known for its cream-filled choux pastries called choux à la crème.
These are light, airy, and delicately flavored delicious and out-of-the-world cream puffs with various creams, such as vanilla, chocolate, citrus, and pistachio.
You can get hot beverages such as coffee and tea: A perfect pair for the cream puffs.
It’s an easy stroll from the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Pont Neuf, and Place Dauphine, making it about 10-15 minutes.
The more you eat, the more you walk, the more you burn calories, and the more you can eat again! How does that sound? 😛
Insider Tips: Odette is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan, and it’s affordable, according to reviews!
Have a glass of wine at a 43-Rooftop
If you’re in the mood for a glass of wine, head to 43-RoofTop for a glass of vino, champagne, or beer along with some delicious small bites.
This rooftop bar will give you a spectacular 360-degree view of the Paris skyline 😍.
Choose a place according to your mood and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and chic atmosphere.
💡 Practical information: Reservations is a MUST as it is a part of the Melia Paris La Défense hotel. You can easily get a table by making a reservation.
Marin Montagut – The Best Parisian Momento Place
This is the best part of any trip, at least for me. Buying souvenirs!
Are you also like me?? If yes, you’d love this place!
End your afternoon with some souvenir shopping at Marin Montagut, a boutique offering unique and handmade Parisian items (all made locally).
What can you get here?
Vintage finds, personalized fabric ornaments, hand-painted cups and dishwares, stationeries and so much more.
Reviews rave about how shoppers had to stop themselves from purchasing everything because the souvenirs are simply that amazing!
I bought a cute small mug of ‘Bonjour Paris’ to have my coffee every morning. It reminds me of Paris every sip I take 🙂
Suggested Reads: 9 Ideas of Non-Touristy Souvenirs from Paris to Buy!
Late Afternoon
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
From Marin Montagut, head to Montmarte by taking the Metro Line 12 From Solférino to Abbesses.
You’re now in Montmartre, the historic neighborhood famous for its artistic roots.
It’s also the most famous Parisian district that didn’t lose any of its village atmosphere, complete with cobblestone streets.
You will get to experience the village experience that captivated the artists in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Your first stop here should be the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a catholic church and minor basilica that sits so magically atop the hill.
It offers stunning panoramic views of Paris, so don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the city.
Next, head to Place du Tertre, a large public square at the center of Paris that was once a hangout place for famous artists like Dali, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
You can find local painters displaying their work, so feel free to interact with them or even have your portrait painted as a souvenir for the trip!
They are definitely perfect spots for the gram! Plus, you can enjoy the sunset view from the top.
Dinner: Montmartre Dining
Erm, Maryam, I think I’ll be hungry by now after all this. Are you going to suggest a place for dinner?
Don’t you worry! I can already hear your stomach growling miles away from where I am.
Before you turn into the ‘hangry = hungry + angry’ mode, I’ve narrowed down the three best dining options (with amazing Google reviews) for you to choose from.
All three restaurants are conveniently located within a short walking distance from key attractions in Montmartre.
1. La Crémaillère 1900
This classic French bistro is a 10-minute walk from Place du Tertre. It offers a mix of traditional French cuisine and delightful cabaret entertainment.
Must try: Onion soup, Pizza, Kir Royale, Frog legs, Steak, Chicken breast with mushroom sauce and so much more.
2. Seb’on
This restaurant is 12 minutes’ walk from the Sacré-Cœur. It is known for its modern twist on French cuisine, featuring a creative menu with seasonal ingredients.
Must try: Duck breast, seasonal vegetables, Beef Tartare, trout gravlax with passionfruit, Ceviche, pudding with crème brûlée and so much more.
3. Le Cabanon de la Butte
10 minutes walk from Place du Tertre, this charming spot offers a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy comforting French dishes.
Must try: Bone marrow, Beef tartare, Beed and duck steak, Duck foie gras Homemade fig jam, Homemade soft chocolate cake, Creme brulee and so much more.
Evening
Final Stroll and Night View of the Eiffel Tower
Now, you are at the end of your 1 day in Paris trip.
After getting a taste of Montmartre’s gastronomy delights and artistic exploration, head back to the Eiffel Tower for one final stroll and night view.
Take the metro ride on Line 2 from Anvers to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile, and head back to watch the magnificent Eiffel Tower sparkle as the city lights come alive around you.
Every evening, the Eiffel Tower will shine like a star for 5 minutes every hour from sunset to 1 AM. It’s a perfect way to say goodbye to the City of Light.
It’s finally time for you to wind down after a full day of exploring Paris, getting some well-deserved rest before heading to the airport the next day, or depending on your flight schedule.
All that walking will give you a good night’s sleep to recharge!
Have More Time In Paris?
If you have more time to explore Paris, I recommend doing a few things.
- Musée de l’Orangerie: A museum home to Claude Monet’s most celebrated works, the perfect space for art lovers.
- Pompidou Centre: Known for its inside-out architectural design, this center houses one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe.
- Les Deux Magots: One of the famous cafes in Paris that was once a meeting spot for writers and philosophers such as Pablo Picasso, and Ernest Hemingway.
- Tuileries Garden: Located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, this is a historic public park with plenty of seating to sit down and unwind.
- Place De La Concorde: An open space surrounded by iconic landmarks and features monumental fountains.
- Luxembourg Gardens: A park with beautiful sculptures, and fountains: Perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.
- Musée d’Orsay: A renowned museum with stunning collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
#1weekparisitinerary #howtospend4daysinparis
Things To Know Before Going To Paris
- Dress like a Parisian to blend in and deter pickpockets. Read my tips to avoid getting pickpocketed while you’re in Paris.
- Always keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpocketing is a risk on the Metro and near popular tourist areas.
- Learn a few words in French.
- Bring your walking shoes.
- Avoid wearing designer clothes and bags to avoid being a target.
- Beware of the scams, don’t fall for it.
- Get to know Parisian dining habits.
- Always greet everyone (Bonjour) and remember to ask for your bill at the end of your meal.
- Avoid walking alone at night as a solo female traveler.
- The currency here is Euro (EUR), so check the exchange rates before your trip. I use Wise all the time, as the rates are pretty attractive.
- Be mindful of the additional transfers that may be required to reach the destinations while taking the metro or the bus. These journeys are not always direct, so you’ll need to switch lines to get there.
Move Around Paris Easily With The Paris City Pass
The Paris City Pass is a tourist pass designed to help visitors save money and time while exploring the city’s major attractions like the Louvre Museum, Musée d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, Sainte-Chapelle, and Seine River Cruise.
I highly recommend you purchase this pass because a lot of these attractions can be long queues during peak tourist seasons.
Depending on how long you plan to stay in Paris, you can choose passes that are valid for 1 to 6 days, or even more.
Make sure to compare the price of the pass to the entrance fees of the attractions you plan to visit to ensure it’s worth it.
Additionally, get a metro pass that comes with unlimited access to Paris public transportation such as buses, metro, and trams within certain zones as well.
You can purchase this at metro stations or online. Also, don’t forget to get the map to help you navigate around the city.
Walking is a norm here but if you’re not up for walking, get the Vélib’ bike which you can opt for a single ride or a day pass.
Get your Paris City Pass:
Get your Metro Passes:
Hotels To Stay In Paris Depending On Your Budget
Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, Paris | Located near Trocadéro, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine. It has a Michelin-star restaurant, an indoor pool, spa, bar, and so much more. The best part? You can see the Eiffel Tower from your balcony!
Mid-range: Hôtel La Comtesse | Located on the left bank of the Seine, in the 7th district, this hotel offers a cafe, a neo-boudoir inspired by literary salons with a beautiful library, and a unique view over the Eiffel Tower.
Boutique Hotel: Hôtel Design Secret de Paris | Located between Montmartre and Opera Garnier. Rooms with themes of the iconic landmarks, not too far from the Metro station, Place de Clichy, Montmartre, and Saint-Lazare. (Psst. This is suitable for couples ;))
Budget: Hotel De La Paix Tour Eiffel | Located just a few minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower, is [perfect for travelers who want to be near major attractions without overspending.
FAQs On How To Spend One Day In Paris
When Is The Cheapest Month To Visit Paris?
The cheapest time to go to Paris is from January to April and mid-November to mid-December.
Summer months (June through September) are the most expensive and crowded as they are the peak travel season.
So, book your flight in the months you can enjoy these attractions better without being overwhelmed by crowds and while paying less!
Can You Do Paris In One Day?
Yes, you can do so much in Paris in a day. This article covers how to spend one day in Paris and make the most of your trip.
Whether you are traveling solo, in a couple, or as a family, there is always something to see, do, and eat in Paris. What I love about Paris is that it is also walkable and family-friendly.
Most areas are pram-friendly. Turn into any corner, and you’ll see at least one park in each arrondissement meant for kids.
Paris is a city that never sleeps. It always has something to offer to elevate your stay, even if it’s just for one day.
How do you get around Paris in a day?
As I said, walking is a great, budget-friendly way of getting around central Paris.
It’s easily one of the most walkable cities in the world with countless attractions within easy reach.
While the streets are generally safe during daylight hours, it’s important to remain on the lookout, especially in popular tourist areas.
What is the best neighborhood for one day in Paris?
Here are eight must-see Paris neighborhoods that will give you a true feel for the City of Light.
- Le Marais
- Montmartre
- Saint-Germain-des-Près
- Belleville
- The 1st Arrondissement
- Île de la Cité
- Canal Saint-Martin
- The Latin Quarter
While exploring the world-famous landmarks, it’s also worth visiting beyond.
Where To Eat One Day In Paris?
I’ve given some suggestions to eat, however, if you need more, find them below:
How to eat your way through 24 perfect hours in Paris:
- Du Pain et Des Idées
- Holybelly
- La Fontaine de Belleville
- Breizh Café
- Le Clarence
One day in Paris where to eat – is solved!
Grab your beret and baguette — Paris is waiting for you!
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first time in the city, knowing how to spend one day in Paris can be just as magical as a longer stay.
This one day itinerary in Paris lets you experience the best of Paris without feeling rushed, blending culture, cuisine, pastries, and iconic sights into a single, magical, and unforgettable day!
I’d love for you to feel and experience the freshness the city has to offer despite all the minuses about it.
Eeek! I’m so excited for you!
Ready to experience a day in Paris? Use this one day in Paris guide to plan your trip and share it with others looking to fall in love with the City of Lights as well!
Bon voyage et un bon séjour à Paris. Bisous x