72 Hours in Paris: A Perfect Weekend Itinerary

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Day 1: Classic Paris

Morning:
Eiffel Tower
Start early to avoid long lines. Book tickets online in advance to skip the queue. Take an elevator ride to the top for stunning views of Paris.

Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Walk down the Champs-Élysées, enjoying the high-end shops and cafes. Visit the Arc de Triomphe; consider climbing to the top for a panoramic view of Paris.
Lunch: Le Relais de l'Entrecôte Famous for its steak frites and secret sauce. Located near the Champs-
Afternoon: Louvre Museum
Pre-book tickets to avoid long lines. Use the skip-the-line option if available. Focus on key pieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, or explore the less crowded sections.
Tuileries Garden
Stroll through the gardens and relax by the fountains. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk.
Evening: Seine River Cruise Board a cruise from Pont Neuf or another central location. It’s a wonderful way to see Paris illuminated at night.
Dinner: Le Comptoir du Relais Enjoy traditional French cuisine in a cozy setting, located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area.

Day 2: Historical Paris & Montmartre

Morning: Notre-Dame Cathedral
Visit early to avoid crowds. While the interior might be under renovation, the exterior and surrounding area are still worth exploring.

sainte-Chapelle
Book tickets in advance. The stained glass windows are a must-see.
Lunch: Le Saint Régis A charming café on Île Saint-Louis with excellent French bistro fare.
Afternoon:
Montmartre
Visit the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
Wander through the Place du Tertre, where artists display their work.
Explore the charming streets and alleys of Montmartre, including the historic Moulin Rouge.
Evening: Dinner in Montmartre
Le Moulin de la Galette
A historic restaurant offering traditional French cuisine in a picturesque setting.
Moulin Rouge Show
Book tickets in advance for an unforgettable Parisian cabaret experience.

Day 3: Modern Paris & Hidden Gems

Morning: Musée d'Orsay
Visit early to avoid lines. Known for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Don’t miss works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
Luxembourg Gardens
Relax in the gardens and enjoy a peaceful walk. It’s a great spot for people-watching and unwinding.
Lunch: La Coupole A classic Parisian brasserie known for its seafood and Art Deco ambiance.
Afternoon:
Le Marais District
Explore this historic neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, trendy boutiques, and charming cafes.
Visit the Musée Picasso or Musée Carnavalet for a taste of Parisian history.
Canal Saint-Martin
Stroll along the canal, and enjoy the bohemian vibe and unique boutiques. It’s a less touristy area that offers a glimpse into local life.
Evening:
Dinner in the Latin Quarter
Le Procope
Paris's oldest café, serving classic French dishes in a historic setting.
Panthéon
End your trip with a visit to this monumental building where many famous French figures are buried.

Tips for Maximizing Your Time and Avoiding Lines:

Buy tickets in advance: For major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Musée d'Orsay, purchasing tickets ahead of time can save you hours.
Start early: Begin your days as early as possible to avoid crowds and make the most of daylight.
Use public transportation: Paris has an excellent metro system that can save you time. Consider getting a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel.
Stay central: Choosing accommodation in central Paris minimizes travel time between attractions.
Pack light: A small bag with essentials makes it easier to navigate through security checks and crowded areas.
With this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience a mix of Paris’s iconic landmarks, rich history, and charming
neighborhoods, all while avoiding some of the common pitfalls of sightseeing. Enjoy your trip!

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