Are you dreaming of Paris and looking for the perfect 48 hour guide? Paris is a city that has SO much to entertain, that it can be hard to choose. And while 48 hours in Paris will never be enough time, I’m going to share all of my favorites with you.
When planning a trip to Paris, I encourage you not to over plan, becuse you can always go back. And I recommend that you do! From the cafés, restaurants, and bars, to my favorite activities, read on to see how you can make the most of the beautiful culture, food, and architecture that is the City of Lights.
I have now visited Paris 10 times, and I will spend anywhere from 48 hours to my sweet spot of 4 nights, to a week. I always spend time visiting the beautiful museums, exploring the different arrondissements (neighborhoods), and enjoying the amazing and ever-evolving food and beverage scene. However, my greatest joy in Paris comes from roaming the charming boulevards, gardens and The Seine River.
While in Paris, my tote is always fully equipped with croissants, fruit and a beverage. You never know when you’ll be inspired to enjoy a picnic! Plus, some of my favorite Parisian moments weren’t planned- they happened while I was out for a stroll.
» Tip: Carry a tote, or bring a foldable bag. Find a bakery or market near your hotel in Paris to grab your daily delicious essentials.
48 Hours in Paris: Day 1- Classic Paris
Start your 48 hours in Paris off at Les Deux Magots – a Parisian Café in the 6th arr, a neighborhood that is Classic Paris. I love to enjoy my espresso and croissant while taking in the stunning Parisian Haussmanian architecture. Limestone facades with cascading Blue-Grey rooftops and ornate balconies.
You could also very easily grab a croissant and make your way to the Jardin du Luxembourg to enjoy your morning with a coffee and pastry, or walk to the nearest bistro in the area where you are staying. You are in Paris! Wherever you spend your morning will be lovely as long as you have a croissant in hand.
The Musee d’Orsay: 48 hours in Paris
From there, make your way to the Musee d’Orsay, a museum filled with gorgeous art from the Impressionistic era that has a dream-like feel to it. From Monet and Renoir, to Manet and Degas, this museum is a must-see in Paris.
Tuileries Gardens + a Sandwich = my Paris
For lunch, grab a sandwich from Le Petit Vendome and wander the grounds outside of the Louvre. Its gorgeous arch, fountains, Glass Pyramids and of course the romantic architecture, make this my favorite place in the world. Nearby, Le Jardin des Tuileries will continue to feed your soul, with its statues and tree-lined walkways. Green chairs are scattered throughout the gardens, just calling to you to sit and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
The Place de la Concorde
Continue on towards the Place de la Concorde to see the Luxor Obelisk, stunning fountains and a brilliant view of the Arc de Triomphe down the Champs-Élysée. I encourage you to play the rest of the afternoon by ear. This may include relaxing at your hotel, viewing Monet’s Water Lilies at the Musée de l’Orangerie, shopping down the Champs-Élysée, or enjoying the café life.
» Tip: When you are not walking, I recommend using The Paris Metro to get around. To easily navigate the system, use Google Maps. There is a bike share system and taxis throughout the city as well.
The City of Lights and its Magnificent Cuisine
For dinner I recommend Boullion Chartier Grands Boulevard for traditional French Cuisine in the 9th arr. The atmosphere is electric and even though there is a line out the door for dinner it’s worth it! I encourage you to make it an early dinner.
Another option is Poulette, which is a charming Bistro in the 2nd arr. At Poulette, I love sitting at the bar for a delicious meal based on seasonal offerings. This space is vibrant in a more intimate setting. My favorite French restaurants are the ones that focus on ingredients that are super fresh and seasoned to perfection to bring out their natural flavors…and it all pairs perfectly with the soft, yet crusty bread of France.
After Dinner in the City of Lights: 48 Hours in Paris
After dinner, grab a bottle of wine from the local grocer, open up those pastries you purchased earlier and head over to the Champ de Mars, or the Jardin du Trocadéro. Here you can enjoy the show-stopping lights of the Eiffel Tower. I will never forget playing cards and enjoying a beautiful Bordeaux with my sister while we waited for the lights of the Eiffel Tower to light up the sky. Starting at sunset, The Iron Lady will be illuminated! She then sparkles for 5 minutes every hour to create an unforgettable ambiance.
48 Hours in Paris: Day 2- Hidden Gems
On your second day, head up to Montmartre. It’s a part of Paris that is only a 30 minute metro ride away, yet it feels like a unique world all its own. The Moulin Rouge is here, as is the remarkable Sacre Coeur. I always start by enjoying a cafe and croissant at the base of the stairs that lead you up to the Sacre Coeur. At the top of the stairs you will find a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris, along with small shops, cafes and a market where local artists showcase their pieces.
Montmartre is a hidden gem of Paris that has a quaint, artistic vibe all its own. When you are here and anywhere in Paris, don’t forget to look behind you every once in awhile. Some of the greatest views are right over your shoulder.
Exploring the Marais & Strolling along The Seine
For lunch, make your way to The Marais District (3rd and 4th arr). The Marais has an old-world charm- with narrow cobblestone streets, gardens and markets around every turn. There is a certain romance about this area that just begs you to stroll. This way, you can take in the beautiful architecture as you try to decide where to enjoy your next meal. Whether you decide to grab a sandwich to go, or find a restaurant to take in the atmosphere, there are so many cafes and shops to choose from. If you blink, you will surely miss one.
The Seine River
After lunch, make your way down to The Seine River. On a beautiful day, the river glistens in the sun as you look upon the Notre Dame. People are everywhere and there always seems to be a musician setting the mood with a song. This is Paris, after all! This would also be the perfect time to take a cruise on The Seine, whether it’s via the hop on hop off boat tour, or one of the many river cruise options. Seeing Paris from the water is a marvelous way to see the hotspots in the city!
Hop on Hop off Bus Tour: 48 hours in Paris
Speaking of the Hop on Hop off Boat Tour, you may also decide to spend part of your time on the Hop on Hop off Bus Tour. Lisa and I just spent an afternoon hopping on and off all around Paris in the Spring of 2026. It’s quite easy to find each bus stop, and it’s a great way to see all of the sights if you only have 48 hours in Paris, because the must see landmarks are quite spread out.
If you are going to take the bus tour, dress for the season and head up to the top of the double decker bus. You will be grateful you did when the bust stops right outside of the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame, and when it takes the round about by the Arc de Triomphe.
Know before you go: 48 Hours in Paris
The only negative about the Bus tour is that there may be a lot of people on the bus with you, and you may need to wait awhile at each stop before the tour starts again. But other than that, the bus tour is incredibly convenient. Lisa and I took amazing photos while on this tour, and we even hopped off for a long lunch at a cafe with champagne and a sandwich. I highly recommend you do the same!
Parisian Hot Spots for Dinner & Cocktails
For dinner, make a reservation ahead of time at Clown Bar. Their beautiful dishes are unforgettable! I was just in Paris in the Spring, and Lisa and I enjoyed their Scallop Carpaccio, Pigeon, and a Grapefruit dessert that is still on my mind weeks later.
We also loved their wine offerings. One of which was a Pinot Noir made specially for the restaurant! And so we sipped, laughed, and swirled all while marveling at the colorful tiled ceiling above which was adorned with… well clowns of course. It’s quite stunning, and adds a certain charisma to a space that is perfect for relaxing and enjoying an exceptional meal.
Au Passage: Best restaurants in Paris
Au Passage is at the top of my list of favorite restaurants in Paris! Here the menu is inventive, delicious, and some of the best you will ever enjoy. The atmosphere at Au Passage is vibrant, warm, and welcoming, and the staff will make you feel right at home. I encourage you to make a reservation, and click the link to read more about my recent experience at Au Passage with Lisa in Spring 2026.
If cocktails strike your fancy, grab a post-dinner drink at Bisou. They make custom cocktails based off of your favorite ingredients. I asked for a variation on a French 75. Oh what fun it was to enjoy a cocktail made just for me! They will also make you a cocktail of your liking- Lisa had a spicy margartia that was also excellent.
The Little Red Door: Best Cocktail Bars in Paris
Another cocktail bar that will wow you is The Little Red Door. Their menu is every changing and a work of art. The Little Red Door is consistently one of the best cocktail bars in the world, and the vibes never disappoint. I have been back so many times I’ve lost count!
In Paris, don’t be afraid to grab a night cap at the busy place on the corner. After my solo adventure this Past Spring, I wandered to a corner cafe that had an empty table outside and enjoyed every minute of it. When you are in Paris, sitting outside with a drink while people watching can end up being the perfect end to any evening.
Julie’s List: Where to Eat and Drink in Paris
When I am in Paris I am always on the hunt for the best places to eat and drink. Over the years I have curated a list of restaurants and bars based on the places I love, and the places the trusted foodies in my life love as well. My list also includes recommendations from the local Parisians I’ve met along the way! Click here to read all about Where to Eat and Drink in Paris.
Final Thoughts: 48 Hours in Paris
In Paris, there are endless wonders around every corner- this 48 hours in Paris itinerary is just the beginning. While in Paris, I encourage you to stroll, eat well, make dinner reservations, but don’t be afraid to walk into a restaurant for a long lunch of escargot and Champagne. Paris is best enjoyed if you don’t have to run from place to place. Try to savor the moments and just take your time.
Want to read more about Paris, and my best tips for meeting new people while you are traveling? Click here to read about Where to Eat and Drink in Paris, and here to read my best tips for Solo Travel and how to meet new people.
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Meet Julie Anne, our enthusiastic writer who believes every day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Passionate about local food, wine, fashion, and history, she dives into each city’s culture to bring you authentic, inspiring stories. She started writing in 2020 for Dutchbloggeronthemove. When not traveling, Julie Anne teaches music in Chicago, IL, and advocates for students with special needs. Stay tuned for her unique insights and adventures!
