Paris in two days – an ideal short getaway

Paris in two days – can it be done?

Is it possible to visit Paris in two days? The answer is “Yes”! With a little bit of planning before arrival, it can be done. A limited amount of time in Paris, should not discourage you from visiting this vibrating and dazzling city.

I have selected a two day itinerary that will offer you the best of Paris. Strolling the banks of the river Seine, a hop-on hop-off bus company in Paris experience, pastry shops and admiring the architecture and buildings.

This itinerary will work if you arrive by bus, car or train. If you are flying into Paris and in the middle of the night, then you need to adjust it.

Arriving in Paris: Day 1 – What to see and do.

A visit to the Louvre Museum – focus on what you want to see.

I suggest you make the Louvre your first stop. The Louvre is a must-see for everyone visiting Paris. It is important to note that the Louvre is huge and it is impossible to see everything in a short space of time. It houses many artefacts and valuable paintings and sculptures. You could literally spend days without seeing it all.

To save time, I highly recommend purchasing tickets online and well in advance. I also suggest to read up about the Louvre before arrival. Set yourself goals of what you want to see and focus on that only. For example if you want to see the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, look for them first. There are normally long lines and you will have to allow extra time for that. I recommend to spend at least 3 hours at the Louvre.

Next stop – The Eiffel tower.

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris. It attracts many tourists who want to enjoy the wonderful panoramic view of the city of love. Elevators take visitors up the tower to several observation levels and finally to the top. If you do not want to wait in line for the elevator on a bust day, climb the 1,665 steps. An entry ticket to ride the elevators is required. Again, I recommend to purchase a ticket online. Budget to spend at least an hour, if not two at the Eiffel tower.

An evening stroll at the Champs Elysees.

The Champs de Elysees is the most famous avenue in the world. Here you can find high-end couture shops, brand shops and many restaurants. It is beautiful at night and I do suggest having dinner here or maybe a troll through one of the pastry shops where you can enjoy a late night coffee before heading off to bed.

Exploring Paris: Day 2 – What to see and do.

Visit the Arc de Triomphe – Paris in two days.

The Arc de Triomphe is another example of the beautiful French architecture. Here you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame. Did you know that you can go inside? Yes! Climb all the way to the top and admire the Eiffel tower from a different angle. Great for photographers.

Sainte-Chapelle in Paris – a definite must-see.

Be prepared to be mesmerised by this exquisite chapel. It has more than 1,000 stained glass windows, which tell the story of the Bible.

The chapel itself is not very large and you could visit it in an hour. I highly recommend it.

Walk along the River Seine.

A walk along the River Seine is ideal to view beautiful architecture. Here you can see the Ile de la Cité and sites like the La Conciergerie,  the iconic rooftops of Paris and the Pont Neuf  or New Bridge. Funny enough but this is actually the oldest bride in Paris. ) The walk would take more or less 30 minutes and it is a good place to stop for lunch.

Explore the Jardin des Tuileries.

Depending on how you feel but I do recommend a visit to the beautiful Tuileries Gardens. This could also be done before or after a visit to the Louvre. It is one of the most beautiful parks in Paris.

Final evening in Paris – The Moulin Rouge.

Why not close off your Paris in two days with a visit to the Moulin Rouge? A cabaret show and fancy dinner could end your trip to Paris perfectly.

Transportation and how to get the most out of your Paris in two days trip.

A double-decker Big Bus is a great way to explore Paris in two days. Hop on and off at the dedicated stops and whenever you wish. All at your own time. This will allow you to see the most important landmarks and neighbourhoods in Paris. Personally I am a big fan of hop-on and hop off buses. You get a nice overview of the city and could easily make your way to the next attraction without feeling overwhelmed.

Most of all have fun! Don’t try to rush if you are running out of time. There is always a next time.