Are you trying to plan a 1 day in Paris itinerary? If so, don’t stress! I have you covered with a detailed guide that will show you exactly how to see the best of Paris in one day!
I have visited Paris countless times, in all seasons, so this will walk you through my insider knowledge of Paris! Trust me this will be the ultimate itinerary for all the places you can’t miss on your trip to Paris. Paris is one of my favorite destinations and there are numerous places to visit!
I made this itinerary to help ease your planning. Here are some things you MUST SEE in Paris in 1 day!
- Sacre Coeur (experience a Paris sunrise)
- Eiffel Tower (One of the Iconic Paris Attractions)
- Musee D’Orsay (My favorite museum)
- River Cruise down the Seine
- Tuileries Garden (my favorite park in Paris)
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are planning a trip to Paris in 2024, please note that as a US citizen, you will be required to apply for special authorization approval from the European Travel Information and Authorization System and pay the fee of €7.
One Day In Paris Itinerary: How to See Paris In A Day
Stop 1: Sacre Coeur and Montmartre (6:30 am)
If I only have one day to explore Paris, I get up early to make the most of my day! The first stop on your 1-day trip to Paris is Sacre Coeur! Here you will watch the sunrise, crowd-free over Paris! There are two ways to get here.
- My favorite way is to take the 2-minute funicular ride (use a metro ticket), from the Anvers Metro Stop!
- Or you can climb the stairs – wear comfortable shoes, the streets are cobblestone
The Basilica of Sacre Coeur opens at 6:30! The advantage of making this your first stop is the crowd-free 360-degree view of Paris. Go inside the Basilica to see the ceiling. It is the largest mosaic in all of France. With limited time I suggest skipping the dome on this visit!
Click Here to Book : Paris: Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Walking Tour
Stop 2- Breakfast (Le Petite Déjeuner )- 7:30 am
After leaving the Sacre Coeur, head to Rue Abbesses for breakfast. This area is an absolute must-visit on your Paris-in-a-day itinerary and one of the most charming spots!
My favorite restaurant is Le Vrai Paris. Sit outside while sipping on coffee or hot cocoa and enjoying a basket of pastries. Although, if you are worried about time grab a crepe from one of the street vendors in the area.
Stop 3: Arc de Triomphe (8:30 am)
Directions: From the Sacre Coeur it takes about 12 minutes on the Metro to reach Arc de Triomphe From the Anvers metro stop you will take the 2 Line towards Porte Dauphine, and get off at Charles de Gaulle Etoile.
If I were choosing what to do while in Paris with one day, I would skip visiting the top (opens at 10 am), and just head upstairs from the metro to see the iconic monument looking down the Champs-Élysées.
Stop 4: Eiffel Tower (9:00 am-9:30 am)
Directions: From the Arc de Triomphe head back to the Metro, and look for the 6 line towards Nation where you will get off at Bir- Hakeim Stop.
The Eiffel Tower has to be on every list of the best places to visit in Paris! And trust me you can’t miss a chance to visit the most famous monument in Paris, even with just 24 hours in Paris!
Book your tickets to see the Eiffel Tower as far in advance for a visit to the top as possible.
- Second Floor with lift access: 18.10€ Adult/ 4.50€ Child
- The Top Floor (summit) with lift access: 28.30€ Adult/ 7.10€ Child
- Second Floor with stairs: 11.30€ Adult/ 2.80€Child
- Stairs Second Floor + Lift to Top: 21.50 €Adult/ 5.40€ Child
First, save time by booking a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower. I have not waited in extremely long queues in years with this tip. As I have said, advanced tickets are a HUGE timesaver!
Without a doubt, I would suggest going to the top when spending a few days in Paris. For just day trips to Paris opting for a visit to the second floor ONLY will save you so much time and the views are just as good!
Lastly, if your trip is last minute, and the elevator and stair tickets are sold out for your dates, the Eiffel Tower is still a must-visit! Av de Suffren is one of my secret spots for amazing pictures of the tower!
Click Here to Book : Paris: Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator
Click Here to Book: Paris: Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access
Click here to Book: a Paris: Eiffel Tower Entry Ticket with Optional Summit Access
Stop 4: Musee D’Orsay 11:30 am
Directions: From the Eiffel Tower you will take the RER C line towards Juvisy at Champs de Mars Eiffel Tower to the Musee D’Orsay stop!
If you want to add a museum to your Paris for the day itinerary, choose Musee d’Orsay over the more popular Louvre. This summer, my family opted to do just that and it ended up being a highlight for everyone.
A visit here for an hour will be much more enjoyable, than dashing around the Louvre! Musee d’Orsay is not only stunning architecturally ( it is a converted railway station) it showcases Impressionist painters like Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, sculptures, and more!
First, make sure to book your tickets here which also includes a Seine river cruise, as the river sightseeing cruise will be a later stop on my ultimate Paris guide!
Tips :
- FREE admission on the first Sunday of each month ( I would avoid going on Sunday, especially with only one day in Paris!)
- CLOSED on Monday
- Reserve your skip-the-line guided tour through the museum
- For those on a budget check out Petit Palais, a great FREE museum in Paris
Click Here to Book: Paris: Musée d’Orsay Entry Ticket and Seine River Cruise
Click Here to Book : Paris: Skip-the-Line Musée d’Orsay Ticket and Guided Tour
Stop 5: Lunch (12:30)
After a full morning exploring all the things to do in Paris in a day, I am sure you will be hungry and ready to try some French food and recharge for your afternoon in Paris.
There are tons of restaurants and cafes in this area. As this is a “touristy” area, prices are a little higher. Enjoy your meal and some people-watching as the French do!
I always order either a Croque Monsieur ( grilled ham and cheese), quiche of the day, or steak and fries and a glass of wine!
For those on a tighter budget, pop into a grocery store for a picnic lunch in the Tuileries Garden! Exactly what to do in Paris with one day if visiting during the Summer and Spring when the weather is nice!
Some of my favorite lunch spots are:
- Le Relais de L’Entrecôte (steak and Fries)
- Le Breziah Cafe (crepes)
- Chez Claud (classic French Bistro)
- Le Musset (contemporary Bistro with a spin)
- Loulou (upscale dining)
Stop 6: Tuileries Garden (2 pm)
Directions: Just a 5-minute walk across the river from Musee D’Orsay.
The Tuileries Garden is perhaps my favorite location in Paris, and one I make sure to visit EVERY trip. From the gravel tree-lined paths to sitting around the fountain (usually with an Angelina’s hot chocolate in hand) and just people-watching, to exploring the statues, and hidden features of the park, you will see why it is a must-see in Paris in 1 day!
A great stop for those with children, as during the summer there is a carnival with rides and a carousel. During winter, there is a Christmas market with rides.
Stop 7: Notre Dame (2:45 pm )
Directions: To arrive at your next stop, I suggest walking or biking ( look for bike rental stands) the one mile along the Seine to take in the Parisian vibe. My favorite way to see Paris!
In 20 minutes you will be on the Ile de la Cite where Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle (the largest stained glass windows in France) are located. This is another of the things to see in Paris in 1 day that you can’t miss!
PLEASE NOTE: Notre Dame is still under construction caused of the fire of 2019 only the exterior can be visited. You can however enter the crypt and if you want a walking tour of the area, this tour combines both things!
Stop 8: Latin Quarter (3:30 PM )
Directions: Head across the Seine River to enter the Latin Quarter.
I highly recommend adding the Latin Quarter to your list of where to visit Paris for a day! If I am ever wanting to purchase touristy souvenirs in this area I do so.
Spend some time wandering around the lively cobblestone streets of this historic area of Paris! I always have a crepe (a must-try French food), and either an afternoon coffee or happy hour at one of the many cafes. This area is filled with plenty of charm and has some of the prettiest streets in Paris!
Sights in the Latin Quarter:
- Shakespeare and Co. Bookstore
- Cluny Museum
- Odette ( one of the prettiest cafes in Paris!)
- Paris-Sorbonne University
- Panthéon
Stop 9: Seine River Cruise (5 pm)
After making it this far into your one-day walking tour of Paris, I am sure you are ready to rest your feet! This is the perfect time to head out on a one-hour sightseeing tour down the Seine River. The boat tours operate daily from 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
See the sites from a different vantage point while relaxing on a boat. Even in the winter, I opt to sit outside. For those who want to take the guesswork out of dinner, why not book a 2-hour dinner cruise? I did this exact dinner cruise on a weekend trip with my girlfriends, and it was one of the highlights for our group!
Click Here to Book the Paris: 1-Hour River Seine Cruise
Click here to Book : Paris: Dinner Cruise on the Seine River at 8:30 PM
Click here to Book : Paris: Seine River Sightseeing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner
Stop 10: Dinner (7 pm)
When looking at where to eat dinner, the list of all the best restaurants in Paris can seem daunting! I think the best plan for dinner is to either snag a reservation, pop into a little bistro that looks good, or plan out in advance where you want to eat on your 1 day in Paris itinerary.
Having a plan especially when you are tired and hungry can really be a lifesaver if traveling with others! Some of the more popular restaurants have several locations in Paris.
Here are some places I always recommend:
- Bouillon Chartier ( A no-frills inexpensive French Bistro)
- Le Relais de L’Entrecôte ( Steak, fries, and salad)
- Breziah Cafe (Crepes)
- Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, or Le Procope – popular cafes for people watching
- Clamato ( wine and seasonal menu)
- Le Petite Lutetia (French food!)
- Restaurant Anne ( Michelin Star)
- Frenchie ( Michelin Star – no menu, Phenomenal if you are adventurous)
Stop 11: Night in Paris (9:30 pm)
I am going to give you some of my favorite ways to end my one day and night in Paris!
Option 1: Watching the Eiffel Tower Sparkle with drinks and Trocadero Plaza
Directions: Trocadero metro stop
One of my favorite ways to spend an evening is to grab a beverage and some pastries and head up the steps to the Trocadero Plaza to wait for the sparkling to begin. It happens every hour after dusk. A truly magical end to your night in Paris!
If you can snag dinner reservations at Giraffe, I highly recommend not only the food and vibes but also the views of Trocadero Plaza and the Eiffel Tower are amazing in a more private setting!
Option 2: Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show
Directions: The metro station Blanche on line 2 is the closest.
For those not waiting for their night to end, pair your river cruise with a Moulin Rouge show! Enjoy the iconic after-dinner show, where can-can dancers put on a spectacular cabaret-style performance. For those looking at what to do in Paris after dark, this is one of the highlights of my Paris nightlife experience that I share with everyone visiting the city of Lights! It is one of the top sights in Paris for a reason.
Click Here to Book : Paris: Dinner Cruise on the Seine River at 8:30 PM
Click Here to Book : Paris: Champagne at the Moulin Rouge & Seine River Cruise
Option 3: Tuileries Ferris Wheel and Cocktail Bar
Directions: RER C or Line 9
Head back to the Tuileries Garden. I suggest arriving a few minutes before the hour, so you can ride the Ferris Wheel and will be awarded the sparkling Eiffel Tower view over Paris.
Afterward, I like to head down the street to the Ritz bar. The drinks (including non-alcoholic) are pricey, but the atmosphere is vibe, and drinks come with complimentary bar snacks!
Or jump on the 8 metro Line to the Concorde stop to my favorite cocktail bar in Paris, the Little Red Door. Once you visit it will be clear to see why it is one of the top 5 bars in the World with the vibe and drinks exceeding all expectations!
Museum Closures
For those visiting Paris for one day, it is important to note museum closures for your Paris trip itinerary! Avoid traveling on Monday and Tuesday as the major museums are closed.
On Monday the following are closed:
- Musee D’Orsay (one of my favorites)
- Petit Palais (a fantastic free museum),
- Rodin Museum
- Notre Dame Crypt
- Catacombs
- Museum of Victor Hugo
On Tuesday the following are closed:
- Louvre( would skip with 1 day in Paris)
- Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais
- Pompidou Centre,
- Musée De L’Orangerie (another of my favorites)
Can you do Paris as a day trip?
If you are asking, can Paris be done in a day? My answer is YES!! If allowed to visit Paris for just one day, I would take advantage! You will need to make sure you have done all your research ahead of time to take the guesswork out of what to do!
Don’t let only having one day to explore stop you from traveling to Paris! Trust me, is it worth visiting Paris for 1 day! Of course, you will not see everything.
This 1 day in Paris Itinerary is perfect for those with limited time. Moreover having done countless layovers in Paris, when flying elsewhere in Europe or continuing to Asia, I will share all my knowledge with you! So whether you have a layover or are making a day trip to Paris, you can still make the most of your time as a visitor to Paris.
Next, you might ask how much money I need to take for a 1 day in Paris itinerary. That depends on your budget! Check out our complete guide to what it costs to visit Paris!
Where to stay for one night in Paris
Hotel Malte
I always recommend the Asotel brand for a hotel in Paris to all my friends and family! The brand has 17 hotels spread through the city’s different neighborhoods, all 3- and 4-star hotels that are highly rated and for good reason!
One of my favorites is Hotel Malte! The rooms are modern; there is fast Wi-Fi and a free mini bar with drinks in the room and it is ideally located.
To Book Asotel Hotel Malte – Click Here
Hôtel Whistler Paris
I think being centrally located is important with only one night in Paris! The Hotel Whistler Paris is located in the 10th arrondissement between Gare de L’est and Gare du Nord train stations if you plan on taking the train to another destination in Europe.
The rooms are modern, with wifi and AC ( a must for Paris summers).
To Book Hotel Whistler Paris: Click Here
Hotel Britannique Hotel
Located in the 1st arrondissement, this hotel is in the perfect location central to everything such as Notre Dame, Seine, Louvre, and more!
While the rooms are small here, they come with AC, wifi, and private bathrooms and are rated highly for being comfortable, you are sure to sleep well here after this jam-packed 1 day in Paris itinerary.
To Book Hotel Britannique Hotel: Click Here
Getting To And Around Paris
If traveling Internationally you will most likely arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.
For those flying into another European city and connecting to Paris, there are two other airports Orly and Paris Beauvais Airport. BVA might seem like a great option for cheaper flights, but it is NOT connected to Paris by any public transportation!
Finally if arriving from other European cities such as London or Brussels, you will arrive at one of the several train stations.
Paris is quite a large city but don’t let that intimidate you! The public transportation system is very easy to use!
- They lay the city out in a spiral going clockwise from 1 to 20, starting on the left bank of the river!
- The Right Bank is north of the River and the Left Bank is south of the River
- Purchase a “carnet” or 10 packs of tickets for Metro/Bus rides
- Taxis, Uber, and the French equivalent Le Cab are all readily available.
- Bike rental stands are everywhere
On the other hand, if you feel overwhelmed with the idea of getting around Paris yourself, book a guided tour such as the Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tours with Seine Cruise that will take you to all the popular sights with just one ticket at your own pace! I did this tour with my family and it was a FANTASTIC time by all! I highly suggest booking tours in Paris to make the most of your visit!
Insider Tips For Your First Trip To Paris With One Day
Bring a Portable Phone Charger
- With a jam-packed 1 day in Paris Itinerary, you are sure to be on your phone for directions or photos constantly so don’t forget to bring a portable phone charger to keep your phone charged!
Make this Itinerary your OWN
Use this as a first time in París itinerary or as a return visitor where you make this itinerary your own, and hopefully discover some new places to visit in Paris!
Keep change for public restrooms
- YES, you have PAY to use the public restrooms in Paris! So keep those spare coins!
Free Water
- Pack your reusable water bottle. The dark green cast iron sculptures around Paris double as free water fountains
Learn a Few Phrases
- One of the biggest tips for your 1 day in Paris itinerary as someone fluent in French is to learn a few words or phrases in the local language!! Start with “Bonjour” (Hi), Merci ( Thank you), or Je vais prendre ( I would like) , S’il vous Plaît ( please)
Beware of pickpockets
- In all big cities be aware of your surroundings in tourist locations. Especially on the metro or metro stations. Don’t make these mistakes that could quickly ruin your 1-day trip to Paris!
Paris Pass vs the Museum Pass
If your budget allows it during your 1 day in Paris France, and you are focused on visiting all the world-class museums I suggest purchasing either the Paris Pass or the Museum Pass.
- Paris Museum Pass is perfect for exploring the fabulous museums Paris offers.
- Paris Pass is for experiences in Paris. ( Highly suggested if this is not your first trip to Paris and want some unique things to do!)
- The BEST thing about purchasing these passes is you can make advanced reservations which is super-helpful when planning your 1 day in Paris itinerary!
To Purchase your Museum Pass: Click Here
To Purchase your Paris Pass: Click Here
With More Time In Paris
Do you have more than just one day to spend in Paris? Don’t worry! I have you covered! If you need to adjust this itinerary, it is quite easy!
Check out our itineraries for spending 2 days in Paris, 3 days in Paris, or 4 days in Paris. And if you need help packing I have an entire guide!
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