Ultimate Guide to Exploring Paris in a Day
- Marie Williams
- 2 days ago
- 17 min read
Exploring Paris in just one day can be an exciting yet demanding adventure, given the city's abundance of famous landmarks, deep history, and lively culture. To really enjoy a day in this beautiful city, it's crucial to plan carefully and set priorities.
I have shared my full itinerary for a delightful day in Paris, designed to make the most of your time while enjoying the city at a relaxed pace.
Getting There
We reached Paris late on a Thursday evening, traveling from London via the Eurostar, which is a 2.5-hour high-speed train. The Eurostar stops at Gare du Nord, situated in the northern section of Paris, close to Gare de l'Est in the 10th arrondissement.
Alternatively, Paris is served by two main airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). Traveling to Paris is easy by flying in and then taking either a train or a taxi into the city.During another trip, I flew into CDG. From there, we took a taxi to Paris. A taxi ride from CDG to central Paris has a fixed rate of €56 for the Right Bank (north of the Seine) and €65 for the Left Bank (south of the Seine), with a travel time of about 35-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Money in France
While many European cities are increasingly using credit cards, cash remains the preferred method in numerous areas of France. Therefore, when I arrived in Paris, I located an ATM at Gare du Nord train station to extract some euros for tips and some small purchases. Euros are the official currency of France.
Many companies, like Chase and Capital One, typically do not impose a transaction fee for withdrawing money in a foreign country. Consult your bank initially to determine if there are any charges for withdrawing money abroad.
Before exiting the country, you can visit a currency exchange at the airport to convert your money back to your home currency.
Additionally, pickpockets are fairly common in Paris. Be aware of where your money is and avoid making it easily accessible. I use a moneybelt tucked under my clothing to carry most of my money and anything valuable. I keep cash easily accessible in my crossbody bag, typically worn under a sweater or jacket.
Language
French is the main language spoken in France. Although I've noticed that many French people understand English, there are some who don't. Additionally, in French culture, it's considered polite to greet anyone you encounter, whether in a store, restaurant, or hotel, with "bonjour" and "au revoir" when departing.
Essential Greetings & Thanks
Bonjour (bohn-zhoor): Hello/Good morning/Good day (use always!).
Bonsoir(bon-swahr): Good evening (after ~6 PM).
Au revoir (oh-rev-vwhar): Goodbye.
Merci (mehr-see): Thank you.
Merci beaucoup (mehr-see bo-koo): Thank you very much.
Apologies & Attentio
Pardon (par-dohn): Excuse me/Sorry (to get past, bump into someone).
Excusez-moi (ex-koo-zay-mwa): Excuse me (to get attention).
Asking for Help / Getting Around
S'il vous plaît (seel-voo-play): Please (formal/general).
Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay-voo ahn-glay?): Do you speak English?.
Je ne parle pas français (zhuh nuh parl pah frahn-say): I don't speak French.
L'addition, s'il vous plaît (lah-dee-shyon, seel-voo-play): The bill, please.
Where to Stay
Choosing where to stay in Paris depends entirely on your personal preference. Each arrondissement, or district, in Paris has its own unique character. Navigating the city is simple, whether you choose to use taxis, Ubers, trains, buses,or walk.
As we were arriving at Gare du Nord, we decided to stay nearby this area. Paris offers many fantastic accommodation options, and finding the ideal one can require some time. However, I believe that using Booking.com is an excellent way to discover what you need based on your specific criteria.
Paris is a great place to find a place to stay for just two people, however, we were traveling as a group of 5 which made our search a little more challenging.
I recommend searching for accommodations in Paris several months prior to your trip. This popular city draws millions of visitors each year, and the top places fill up fast.
Nord Est Hotel
Just a 10-minute walk from Gare du Nord train station, Nord Est Hotel was the perfect choice for us. Considering its location, price, and availability, it was our top option. The hotel was clean, and the staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful.
Additionally, for an additional fee, this hotel provides a breakfast option featuring delightful European-style cuisine.
Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris
During my trip to Paris in 2019, my husband and I stayed at a lovely hotel called Relais Hôtel du Vieux. I must say, it's much simpler to find a nice place to stay in Paris when only one or two people are traveling.
Relais Hotel du Vieux is situated in the 5th arrondissement, also referred to as the "Latin Quarter." This name isn't due to any Latin American institutions; rather, it's because the area is filled with universities that, centuries ago, conducted their teachings in Latin.
Relais Hotel du Vieux was a delightful and charming hotel. It was conveniently located near the Seine and within walking distance of numerous Paris attractions.
Although this hotel is located on the Left Bank, we begin our tour on the Île de la Cité. Therefore, staying in this area is a great location to begin my tour of Paris, starting at Sainte-Chapelle.
The Île de la Cité is one of the two natural islands located on the Seine River in the heart of Paris. It was the location of the area governor's fortress for the Roman Empire in the 4th century.
Getting Around
Paris is a big city covering nearly 41 square miles, therefore, various means of transportation is beneficial, especially in just one day.
I found that there are not that many taxi ranks in Paris, therefore, we utilized Uber mostly. Especially wih five people, it was just as economical as taking a bus or train.
My favorite means of transportation was the Batobus! For 23€ per adult or 13€ per child you can get around the heart of Paris by boat, avoid the hassle of public transportation, and take in the amazing views along the Seine. Merely purchase your tickets online and scan your barcode upon entering the Batobus. You can purchase a 24 or 48 hour pass and hop on and off as many times as you want. Batobus was a fun and relaxing way to tour Paris.
Itinerary
We arrived around 8 pm/ 20:00 in Paris via the Eurostar, therefore, after we checked into our hotel I planned for us to take a 2CV Paris Tour.
The main attraction of this tour is riding in a vintage Deux Chevaux car. Among the various tour options, we chose the classic Paris tour. We enjoyed an hour exploring the captivating city of Paris by night from the backseat of a 2CV, as our guide drove, highlighted landmarks, and shared historical insights.
Following a restful night's sleep, we began our day early, leaving around 8:30 am in an Uber to visit Sainte Chapelle.
For the first half of theday, click the link below to access our itinerary on Google Maps
Visit Sainte Chapelle: A Gothic Masterpiece
Begin your day at the charming Sainte-Chapelle, an absolutely breathtaking Gothic chapel located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows that are considered some of the finest examples of medieval art in the world. As you approach the chapel, take a moment to admire the intricate façade, which features elegant spires and detailed carvings that give a glimpse into the architectural marvel of the 13th century.
Architectural Significance
The architectural design of Sainte Chapelle is noteworthy for its remarkable use of light and space. The chapel is divided into two levels: the lower chapel, which served as a place of worship for the palace staff and the general public, and the upper chapel, reserved for the royal family and important visitors. The upper chapel is particularly stunning, featuring a series of 15 magnificent stained glass windows that rise to a height of around 15 meters (approximately 50 feet). These windows depict over 1,100 individual scenes from the Old and New Testaments, creating a visual narrative that is both captivating and instructive. The use of stained glass in Sainte Chapelle is not merely decorative; it serves a theological purpose as well. The vibrant colors and intricate designs were intended to inspire awe and reverence among the faithful, conveying biblical stories in a way that was accessible to those who could not read. The play of light through these windows creates a dazzling effect, filling the interior with a kaleidoscope of colors that changes throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky.
Historical Context
Sainte Chapelle was built during a time of significant political and religious transformation in France. King Louis IX, later canonized as Saint Louis, was a devout ruler who sought to reinforce the power of the monarchy while simultaneously promoting the Christian faith. The chapel was part of a larger complex that included the royal palace, emphasizing the close relationship between the church and the state during this period. Over the centuries, Sainte Chapelle has survived numerous historical events, including the French Revolution, during which many of its treasures were taken or destroyed. Despite these challenges, the chapel has remained a vital part of Paris's cultural heritage.
Visiting Sainte Chapelle Today
Today, Sainte Chapelle is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its architectural beauty and historical significance. The chapel is now part of the national monument known as the Palais de la Cité, which also includes the nearby Conciergerie. Visitors can explore both the upper and lower chapels, with audio guides available to provide context and enrich the experience. The ambiance of Sainte Chapelle is particularly enchanting during the late afternoon when the sunlight illuminates the stained glass, casting colorful reflections on the stone walls and floor. This mesmerizing experience allows visitors to appreciate not only the artistry involved in the chapel's creation but also the profound spiritual significance it continues to hold.
Visit Sainte Chapelle's website to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets cost €19 per person. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You will pass through a security check before entering.
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this extraordinary chapel. It is a wonder of innovative architecture and beauty.
Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
Afterward, head to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a short 8 minute walk from Sainte Chapelle. Although it was still undergoing restoration when we visited, the exterior was a sight to behold. We took some time to appreciate its intricate details and the surrounding Île de la Cité.
Now, Notre-Dame Cathedral is open to the public. Notre-Dame is free to the public; however, to reduce your wait time, it is necessary to book a reserved time here.
Notre-Dame, one of the world's most renowned landmarks, boasts a rich history that extends over 850 years. The construction of Notre-Dame took almost two centuries, culminating in 1345 with the completion of a Gothic masterpiece. The Cathedral featured pioneering architectural innovations, such as flying buttresses, which enabled the creation of towering walls and larger windows.
Even though I have visited Paris twice in the past six years, I still haven't had the chance to see this famous church. In the spring of 2019, a fire led to the church's closure for renovations until December 2024, which was two months after my visit. I hope that if you have the opportunity, you will take the time to visit this historic and symbolic church.
Cross the Pont au Double, a brief bridge linking the Île de la Cité to the Left Bank. From here, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Seine River and Notre-Dame.
Within a two minute walk you will arrive at Shakespeare & Company, a famous bookstore.
Shakespeare & Company Bookstore
Located in the heart of Paris, along the Seine and facing Notre-Dame, Shakespeare and Company is an English-language bookstore. Since its establishment in 1951, it has served as a gathering spot for English-speaking writers and readers. You can also discover books written in French and cute souvenirs.
With each book purchase, they will stamp their logo inside the book cover. Additionally, Shakespeare & Co. Cafe is situated next door, offering a quick bite or coffee.
Shakespeare & Co has a charming atmosphere with its unique sections and labyrinthine layout. Unfortunately, photography is not permitted inside, so you'll need to visit this charming bookstore to see its interior.
A. Lacroix Patisserie
A. Lacroix Patisserie is situated just a short distance from Shakespeare & Co. Located at 11 Quai de Montebello on the left bank.
I highly recommend dining here for some of the most delicious and visually appealing pastries I've ever tasted. You can select from an array of fresh pastries, snacks, and handmade sweets. Also, my niece chose a quiche that was absolutely perfect.
Furthermore, you can view Notre Dame Cathedral across the Seine while enjoying a meal inside or at their outdoor café.
Shown above is an apple cake, topped with Granny Smith apple confit on a soft biscuit, accompanied by an apple mousse. Divine.
Next, enjoy a leisurely 15-minute walk to explore Luxembourg Gardens, known in French as Jardin du Luxembourg.
Jardin du Luxembourg
The Palace provides a stunning backdrop to the the Grand Bassin duck pond. It’s an ideal location for a relaxing afternoon, featuring free-to-use chairs placed around the basins and flower beds, allowing anyone to enjoy the sunshine.
Luxembourg Gardens is located at the boundary of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter, and were established in 1612 by Queen Marie de Medici, drawing inspiration from Florence's Boboli Gardens. Spanning 61 acres, the gardens are divided into French and English sections.
The gardens of the Luxembourg Palace are renowned for their elegance in Paris and offer a delightful escape from the city's bustling streets.
The garden features many statues scattered across the park, including the grand Medici fountain, the Orangerie, and the Pavillon Davioud. The Luxembourg Palace serves as the location of the French Senate, though it was originally designed by the architect Salomon de Brosse for Queen Marie de Medici in the early 17th century.
An iconic feature of the park is the Fontaine Médicis, which was initially designed by Salomon de Brosse for Marie de Medici in 1634.
Maison Bremond 1830 - specialty food store
Following a period of relaxation and an ideal recharge, we took a brief 5-minute walk to a specialty food store named Maison Bremond 1830.
Being a foodie, I was very excited to explore a specialty food shop in France. Maison Bremond 1830 proved to be the perfect destination for purchasing gourmet olive oils, vinegars, and a variety of other foods to bring home.
The employees were very helpful and provided numerous tastings of their products. In all, I think everything we tried, we purchased. All of the food here is absolutely superior in quality and taste.
Additionally, I bought a lovely olive oil jar and some tasty caramels. You can also check out their online store to make purchases. However, be aware that the shipping fee is higher than what most places charge for the United States.Additionally, starting in December 2025, they have stopped shipping to the United States. They hope to resume shipping to the US in the near future.
Richart Fine Chocolates
Richart fine chocolate, situated at 27 Rue Bonaparte, is just a short walk from Maison Bremond and offers some of the finest handmade chocolates and macarons in Paris.
In their shop, you can purchase bars, small chocolates, and more. Their macarons are both colorful and tasty. We shared a few on the lawn by the Eiffel Tower. Very memorable.
BO&MIE Boulangerie
Since it is now afternoon, we strolled to BO&MIE Louvre-Rivoli, situated at 91 Rue de Rivoli. This charming boulangerie is just a 15-minute walk from Richart on the left bank, heading towards the Palais du Louvre on the right bank. You will cross The Pont des Arts, a pedestrian bridge in Paris that spans the River Seine, connecting the Institut de France with the central square of the Palais du Louvre.
Here, you can explore a wide selection of products, including traditional baguettes, small breads, chocolate breads, sandwiches, and delightful sweets such as cakes and cookies.
BO&MIE operates six bakeries in Paris, so be sure to find directions to the one at 91 Rue de Rivoli. This bakery offers plenty of seating and has a free bathroom available.
Following a delightful lunch break, we strolled a short distance to the Louvre to take photos by the glass pyramid.
The Louvre
The Louvre houses some of the most iconic pieces of Western art, such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory. The museum is located in the Louvre Palace, which was originally constructed in the late 12th to 13th century under Philip II.
The building underwent several redesigns and extensions to become the current Louvre Palace. In 1682, Louis XIV chose to live at the Palace of Versailles, leaving the Louvre mainly as a place to exhibit the royal collection, which, starting in 1692, included a collection of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.
During the French Revolution, the National Assembly decided that the Louvre would serve as a museum to showcase the nation's masterpieces.
During the 1980s, the Chinese-American architect Ieoh Ming Pei created the unique glass pyramid to serve as the museum's entrance. Today, it stands as an emblem of the Louvre.
During this tour, we only explored the courtyard of the Louvre, but a few years back, I had the opportunity to tour the museum itself. I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance on their website.
While it’s impossible to see everything in just a few hours, just focus on a few key exhibits that interest you the most.
For me, it was to see the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and a few other famous works. In order to visit the museum efficiently, I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays and some holidays. The line will be long to see the Mona Lisa, however, it does move quickly. Be ready to spend just 30 seconds in front of the famous lady, accompanied by a group of 30 others.
Batobus
The most enjoyable way to reach the Eiffel Tower from the Louvre, is by taking the Batobus! Although a taxi or Uber can get you there in 15 minutes, the journey on the Seine with the Batobus is far more thrilling. The 30-minute journey provides you with a chance to take a break.
Walking from the Louvre, it's just a few minutes' walk towards Quai François Mitterrand, and then take the stairs down to the Port du Louvre along the Seine. At this location, you will find a Batobus stop.
Following the Louvre, the Batobus will make a stop at Place de la Concorde. Remain on board until the next stop at the Eiffel Tower.
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris that attracts millions of visitors each year. After soaking in the panoramic vistas of the city, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River, where you can capture stunning photographs of the tower from various angles.
Upon reaching the Eiffel Tower Batobus stop along the Seine, head towards Rue Buenos Aires. This location offers a perfect spot to capture beautiful photos with the Eiffel Tower in the background.
Next, make your way to the Eiffel Tower to stroll around, enjoy the scenery, and unwind. If you're feeling hungry, there are food stands situated around the tower where you can grab a snack or enjoy delicious macrons purchased earlier at Richardt Chocolates.
If you're interested, you can explore the top of the tower or the second floor. It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance on the Eiffel Tower's website.
During my last visit to Paris in 2019, I explored both floors. It's quite tall, but the views are incredible.
After finishing your exploration of this area, return to the Batobus Eiffel Tower stop. Board the next Batobus and head to the Musée d'Orsay station. Be sure not to disembark at the Invalides stop. This will take approximately 30 minutes. Keep in mind, there is a 15-minute interval between each Batobus station.
By this time, it was approximately 4 pm / 16:00, so we headed to Galeries Lafayette for some shopping. Along the way, we visited Monoprix, a small market and department store similar to a Target in America. The walk to Galeries Lafayette is around 30 minutes with a break midway at Monoprix. Along the way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Tuileries Garden and the Opera House.
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is a high-end French department store chain, and it is the largest in Europe. Its main store is located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement of Paris.
Here you will discover a variety of clothing, accessories, a cafe and an ENTIRE floor dedicated to French souvenirs.
There is a whole section devoted to men's fashion and another dedicated to women's and children's fashion.
Also, on the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette you can soak up amazing views of Paris. Simply head to the top floor of the women's section and take the escalator to the roof top.
We remained here until it closed at approximately 8:30 pm / 20:30. They also offer luggage and bags for sale in case you need an additional bag for souvenirs to take home.
We are currently heading to a restaurant for dinner, which is at least a 30-minute walk from where we are now. Therefore, we decided to take an UberX. With five of us, it's just as cost-effective as using the bus or train. In 15 minutes, we arrived at the restaurant, ready to savor a delightful French meal.
Pedzouille L'ETABLE
Pedzouille L'ETABLE is one of Paris's first French "Fast" Bistros, and serves the most succulent food in a laid-back and homey setting. This communal dining experience was one of the most unforgettable dinners I've ever had.
This charming small bistro accommodates just about 30 guests, so making a reservation is essential. With three bistros across Paris, Pedzouille L'ETABLE provided one of the best meals I've ever had. To begin, we enjoyed raw milk camembert cheese accompanied by honey, thyme, and candied allspice flambéed. The meal continued with expertly seared and sliced steaks paired with the most delicious fried potatoes.
We also enjoyed another appetizer, a simple egg and mayo dish topped with fried pancetta. Although French cuisine is quite simple, it is outstanding, and the quality truly shines.
This truly marked the end of a perfect day. After enjoying our meal, we took a brief 10-minute stroll back to our hotel, reflecting on our wonderful day in Paris.
Touring Montmartre: A Feast for the Eyes
We extended our stay in France by one day and spent it visiting Versailles, a city located southwest of Paris, approximately 10-15 miles away. After exploring Versailles, we had a brief 2 hour tour of Montmartre with With Locals. With Locals is a community of locals who share a passion for travel. On their website, just look up the city you want to visit and select a person who matches your preferences. Some are enthusiasts of history, while others are passionate about food.
If you'd rather explore this area than shop at Galeries Lafayette, just order an Uber to drop you off at Moulin Rouge to start a tour of Montmartre.
If you still have some energy, like we did, consider exploring Montmartre. This district is renowned for its bohemian history and artistic legacy. You can visit the magnificent Sacré-Cœur Basilica, providing another spectacular view of the city. The area is lively with street art, charming cafes, and the well-known Place du Tertre, where artists showcase their creations and offer portraits to visitors.
Touring Montmartre is a feast for the eyes, offering an enchanting blend of artistic heritage, vibrant street life, and stunning vistas that captivate every visitor.
Nestled on a hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, this historic district is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere and has long been a haven for artists, writers, and musicians.
One of the most striking features of Montmartre is its iconic architecture. The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, with its gleaming white domes, stands majestically at the summit, offering panoramic views of the sprawling city below.
In addition to its grand landmarks, Montmartre is filled with quaint cafés and bistros that exude charm and character. Each establishment has its own unique flair, often adorned with colorful awnings and outdoor seating
Moreover, Montmartre's artistic legacy is woven into its very fabric. The area was once the playground of famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri Matisse, who found inspiration in its vibrant streets and picturesque landscapes. Today, you can visit the Place du Tertre, a lively square where contemporary artists display their works and offer portrait sketches to tourists. This artistic hub serves as a reminder of the district's rich cultural history and continues to inspire new generations of creatives.
As you explore deeper into Montmartre, you may stumble upon hidden gems, such as the charming vineyards of Clos Montmartre, where grapes are still cultivated in the heart of the city.
A tour of Montmartre is not merely a visual experience; it is a sensory journey that captures the essence of Parisian life, art, and history. From the breathtaking views atop the Sacré-Cœur to the lively streets filled with artistic expression, every corner reveals something special, making Montmartre a truly unforgettable destination for all who visit.
To sum up, exploring Paris in just one day might appear challenging, but with a carefully planned itinerary, you can capture the city's essence. From famous landmarks to exquisite culinary delights, every moment in Paris can be memorable, providing you with lifelong memories and a reason to come back.
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