What to see in Paris in 3 days? Here's an unusual guide to the French capital's must-see attractions, as well as its most beautiful and little-known experiences.
Whether you're visiting Paris for the first time or you've been here before and are looking to discover the City of Light from a different angle, this exploration of a secret, never-before-seen Paris might just intrigue you.
I went to Paris for the first time in September, then returned in October. On my first trip, I took the time to discover the must-see sites; on my second, I let myself be tempted by more alternative and unusual experiences.
We returned to Paris at the invitation of the Office du Tourisme Français, as part of a beautiful project, with a fantastic group of bloggers and influencers. Together, we shared some wonderful autumn days in one of the world's most beautiful, vibrant and artistic cities.
Here are my notes and favorites from my two trips to this incredible city: the places that moved me, the unusual experiences I had, and the secret corners I discovered.
What to see in Paris - Day 1
Montmartre and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica
If there's one neighborhood that embodies the soul of Paris, it's Montmartre. Located in the 18th arrondissement, it's a jewel of cobbled streets, dusty bookshops, little cafés with sunny terraces, the scent of black coffee and warm brioches. Here you'll find white stone churches, the Moulin Rouge and, above all, the spirit of the Belle Époque. It was here that artists such as Monet, Picasso, Renoir and Rodin chose to live and create.
I recommend exploring Montmartre on foot, slowly, to appreciate its romantic and solitary corners, and climbing up to the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur for a splendid view of Paris.
Lunch at Brasserie Barbès
Just a few steps from the Basilica, still in Montmartre, Brasserie Barbès awaits you with its three floors of mirrors, greenery and elegance. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee, a gourmet brunch or a full lunch, this is an Instagrammer favorite, charming and affordable.
Pigalle basketball court
You've probably already seen it on Instagram: this multicolored field, the work of the Pigalle label, III-Studio and Nike, is located on rue Duperré, between the Blanche, Pigalle and Saint-Georges stations. A place of street culture and iconic photography.
Arc de Triomphe
At the center of Place Charles-de-Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe dominates the famous Champs-Élysées avenue. Inspired by the Arc de Titus in Rome, it was commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate his victory at Austerlitz. You can climb to the top for an unforgettable view of Paris.
Trocadero Gardens and Eiffel Tower
An absolute symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower was much criticized when it was built in 1889. Today, it's a must-see. To enjoy it without the queues, admire it from the Trocadero gardens, and in the evening, along the Seine. At 11 p.m., it sparkles: a magical moment.
Palais de Tokyo
After the Trocadéro, visit this major European contemporary art center. An alternative to the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay, for an immersion in modern art.
A snack at Angelina's
Coco Chanel was a regular here! Angelina, on rue de Rivoli, offers one of the city's finest hot chocolates and an iconic Mont-Blanc since 1903.
Jardin des Tuileries and Place du Carrousel
Stroll through this garden, created for Catherine de Médicis and opened to the public after the Revolution. Finish with the Place du Carrousel and its small Arc de Triomphe.
Dinner at Au Petit Riche
French cuisine in a chic Parisian setting. A real bargain if you're looking for a typically Parisian and delicious place to eat.
What to see in Paris - Day 2
Breakfast at the Pavillon des Canaux
A colorful, cozy spot on the banks of the Bassin de la Villette. A perfect café/brunch in an original and convivial setting.
Brunch at Brasserie Étoile du Nord
Thierry Marx's brasserie in the Gare du Nord offers refined dishes at low prices. A quick and tasty good deal.
Museum of Decorative Arts
Located in the Louvre wing, this museum houses over 500,000 pieces. During our visit, the Dior exhibition was pure enchantment.
Center Pompidou
A must for modern art lovers. Climb up to the terrace for a splendid view of Paris. Located in the Marais district, it's a cultural and architectural gem.
Lunch at Crêperie Beaubourg
Right next to the Centre Pompidou, this typical crêperie will seduce you with its Breton galettes and sweet crêpes.
Street Art Tour in the 13th arrondissement
Discover the largest open-air museum in Paris: the immense murals of the 13th arrondissement, created by world-famous artists such as Obey and C215. A vibrant, alternative Paris.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Even after the fire, it remains a must-see. A Gothic masterpiece, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its gargoyles, stained glass windows and history are all fascinating.
Shakespeare & Co bookshop
Just opposite Notre-Dame. A mythical place where you can read, buy books, play the piano or cuddle a cat. The literary soul of Paris.
Dinner on the Bustronome
A gourmet restaurant in a glass bus. 6 courses, bubbles and a magical tour of illuminated Paris. A once-in-a-lifetime experience!
What to see in Paris - Day 3
2CV ride
Explore Paris in a colorful Citroën 2CV, with driver. An unforgettable "4 Roues sous 1 Parapluie" experience.
Street Art in the Marais
With a guide from Mon Beau Paris, go on a hunt for the artistic treasures hidden in the walls of the Marais. Sculptures, mosaics, graffiti... an open-air museum.
Jewish quarter and lunch at Les Petites Bouchées
Stroll through the Jewish quarter around rue des Rosiers. For food: try Murciano or Les Petites Bouchées, rue du Roi de Sicile.
Shopping at Merci
A cult concept store in the Marais district. Fashion, home decor, books, jewelry... everything is stylish and original. Look out for the red Fiat 500 at the entrance!
Dinner on a Bateau-Mouche & evening at Flow
Round off your stay with a romantic dinner on the Seine aboard a Bateau-Mouche, followed by a festive evening at Flow with retro music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
How to get to Paris
AirFrance is the best option from Italy, with frequent direct flights and quality service (croissants breakfast on board!).
Getting around Paris
Buy a Paris Visite Card for 3 days of free metro travel throughout Paris (zones 1-3). You can also book tickets for museums and attractions in advance on parigi.it.
Where to sleep in Paris
Kube Hotel: design, close to Gare du Nord, friendly staff and... the only Ice Bar in Paris, with cocktails served at -20°C!
