Paris in 2.5 days – a daunting yet thrilling challenge. The City of Love, with its iconic landmarks, world-class art, and unparalleled charm, promises an unforgettable experience. While a longer stay would allow for leisurely exploration, it’s astonishing what can be accomplished in such a short timeframe. With careful planning and a sprinkle of Parisian spontaneity, you can immerse yourself in the city’s magic and create memories that will last a lifetime.
I visited Paris in the beginning of July 2024 on a quick stop back home from a vacation in Greece. It was great timing as this was just before the start of the Olympics and it allowed to get a glimpse and layout of what was coming up.
Paris in 2.5 Days Itinerary
Day 0: Touchdown in the City of Lights
Arriving in Paris late in the evening, the allure of the City of Lights had to wait until morning. To save on accommodation costs, we opted for a hotel near Paris-Orly airport. With jet lag tugging at our eyelids, it was a practical choice. A quick dinner and a good night’s sleep were on the agenda as we eagerly anticipated the adventures that awaited.
We stayed at the All Suites Appart Hôtel Orly-Rungis. This hotel had reasonable rates and offered a free shuttle from the airport. Unfortunately there were not many eating options near the hotel and we arrived a bit later in the evening. My first meal in France was McDonalds! It was a short walk from the hotel. At least I ordered some Macarons with my meal.
Day 1: A Whirlwind Start
Our Parisian adventure kicked off with an early morning Uber to our charming hotel on Rue Cler, Cler Hotel. Unfortunately, it was too early to check in, so we dropped off our bags and decided to explore the lively street. The aroma of fresh pastries and coffee filled the air as we strolled past charming boutiques and local eateries.
Our next stop was the iconic Eiffel Tower, but disappointment struck as we discovered the tower was sold out for ascents. Undeterred, we headed towards the Seine River, soaking in the city’s enchanting ambiance. Hunger pangs led us back to Rue Cler where we indulged in a delicious French lunch at La Terrasse du 7ᵉ. The beer lover that I am, I had my first Paris IPA from Demory Paris.
With full stomachs, we checked into our hotel and decided to embrace the city’s electric energy by renting one of the ubiquitous electric bikes. Our first destination: the Louvre Museum. After snapping countless photos, we walked towards the vibrant Latin Quarter, where we enjoyed a well-deserved pint at the cozy Cave à bières.
Pro Tip: When renting electric bikes it is good to map out your ending destination and where you can drop off the bikes. Turns out over by the Louvre there isn’t a lot of options for parking bikes so we wasted some time back tracking and looking for a place to park the bikes.
Our evening adventure continued with a bike ride past the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral. Determined to make the most of our time, we opted for a double-decker night bus tour. The city illuminated against the night sky was truly magical. However, our late-night cravings were met with disappointment as most restaurants were closed. Luckily, our hotel’s kind staff offered us some comforting croissants to tide us over.
Day 2: Eiffel Tower Conquest and Seine Serenity
Determined to conquer the Eiffel Tower, we set our alarm early and headed back to the iconic landmark. Our persistence paid off as we managed to secure tickets to the top. The panoramic views were breathtaking, and it was an added bonus to spot the Olympic rings and the future beach volleyball venue. The excitement was palpable.
After our exhilarating ascent, we refueled with a classic French baguette sandwich and enjoyed some leisurely shopping on the charming streets around our hotel. The afternoon was reserved for a Seine River cruise, providing a different perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. As the sun began to set, we found a cozy spot to enjoy drinks while eagerly anticipating the Eiffel Tower’s magical sparkle. We staked out our position for the 1 a.m. light show, a truly enchanting end to a perfect day.
Day 3: A Final Parisian Fling
Our last morning in Paris was dedicated to exploring one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We hopped on our trusty electric bikes and set off towards the Arc de Triomphe. After a leisurely ride, we arrived at this magnificent monument and took in its grandeur. The Champs-Elysees, with its luxurious shops and bustling atmosphere, beckoned us next. We indulged in some serious window shopping, dreaming of the day we could return to make some purchases.
A sudden craving for something sweet and indulgent led us to a surprising find: a 5 Guys! We couldn’t resist trying their famous milkshakes and fries, a delightful departure from traditional French cuisine. With our taste buds satisfied, it was time to bid adieu to Paris. We returned to our hotel to collect our luggage and made our way to Charles de Gaulle airport, already planning our return to this enchanting city.
Conclusion
Two and a half days in Paris is a whirlwind romance, a brief but unforgettable encounter with the City of Lights. While it’s impossible to fully experience all that Paris offers in such a short time, this itinerary provides a solid foundation for a memorable trip. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the artistic allure of the Louvre, from the charming streets of Rue Cler to the bustling Champs-Elysees, every moment was filled with magic and wonder. While our departure was bittersweet, the memories made in those fleeting days will forever be cherished. Paris, you’ve stolen a piece of our hearts, and we can’t wait to return for a longer, more in-depth exploration.
Additional Tips
While this itinerary covers the essentials for a quick trip to Paris, here are a few extra tips to enhance your experience:
- Transportation: The Paris Metro is efficient and easy to navigate. Consider purchasing a tourist pass for unlimited travel. Electric bikes are a fun and eco-friendly option for exploring the city.
- Food: Indulge in classic French cuisine, from croissants and baguettes to escargot and steak frites. Don’t miss the opportunity to try delicious pastries and macarons.
- Accommodation: While staying near the airport is convenient for late arrivals, consider staying in central locations like the Latin Quarter, Montmartre, or the Marais for easy access to attractions.
- Packing: Pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Don’t forget a small umbrella and a camera to capture your memories. See my Ultimate International Packing Guide for more tips.
- Language: While many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
- Travel Guides:
By incorporating these tips into your Paris adventure, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your short trip and create unforgettable memories.
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