3 days in Paris

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. This wrought-iron masterpiece was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and constructed for the 1889 World's Fair held in Paris to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.

The Eiffel Tower stands tall at a height of 324 meters (1,063 feet) and is divided into three levels. Each level offers a unique experience.

• The first level features glass floors, providing thrilling views of the structure's architecture. You can explore interactive exhibits, enjoy dining options, and stroll on the transparent walkway for a dizzying perspective. The level also boasts a stunning 360-degree panorama of Paris.

• The second level offers expansive vistas of Paris, including landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. It is home to restaurants, cafes, and gift shops where you can savor French cuisine while taking in the scenery.

• The third level, also known as the summit, is the highest accessible point. It provides breathtaking, unobstructed views of the entire city and its surroundings. The summit's observation deck offers a remarkable experience, especially during sunset when the city is bathed in warm hues.

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to the Eiffel Tower:

• Purchase timed entry tickets online in advance to skip the long lines. Tickets also vary by what levels you want to visit.

• For a more tranquil experience and stunning photos, visit early in the morning or in the late evening when the crowds are smaller.

• It gets really crowded during sunsets, so arrive well in advance to secure a prime spot.

• If you want to dine with an epic view — reserve a table in advance.

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience that allows you to appreciate Paris from a remarkable vantage point. Whether you choose to explore the first two levels or venture to the summit, the Eiffel Tower offers a perspective on the City of Light that you won't want to miss.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Jardin des Tuileries is a historic and elegant public garden created in the French style, dates back to the 16th century and was opened to the public in 1667.

The garden is a prime example of formal French garden design, featuring neatly trimmed hedges, tree-lined pathways, and geometrically arranged terraces — all perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Scattered throughout the garden are various sculptures by renowned artists, adding to its artistic appeal. It also features two large basins, which are popular spots for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

The garden is flanked by the Orangerie Museum, which houses Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, and the Jeu de Paume, an arts center for modern and postmodern photography and media.

The Jardin des Tuileries hosts various events throughout the year, including an annual Christmas market and a summer fair with rides and games.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Louvre Museum is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument of France. It's a former royal palace, with a history that dates back to the 12th century, but it was opened as a public museum in 1793.

The museum is home to a staggering collection of more than 380,000 objects, with about 35,000 artworks on display spread over three wings: Denon, Sully, and Richelieu. These artworks span 9,000 years of history and include masterpieces from diverse cultures around the world.

Regardless of how much you appreciate art, navigating the halls of this museum is a unique experience in itself, so we strongly recommend to give it a try.

Key highlights of the Louvre Museum include:

• Mona Lisa — Leonardo da Vinci's enigmatic masterpiece is arguably the most famous painting in the world.

• Venus de Milo — This ancient Greek statue, dating from about 100 BC, is celebrated for its beauty and is a prime example of Hellenistic art.

• Winged Victory of Samothrace — This impressive 2nd-century BC marble sculpture is celebrated for its depiction of the Greek goddess Nike.

• Egyptian Antiquities — An extensive collection that offers a deep dive into ancient Egyptian civilization.

• Near Eastern Antiquities — These exhibits include ancient artifacts from the Near East, such as Mesopotamia, Persia, and the Levant.

The increase chances of a pleasant experience, the tips are pretty much the same: book online tickets in advance, visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds, use audio-guide, and if you are truly interested in arts — plan ahead how you want to navigate this extensive collection because you can't see it all.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

Montmartre is a historic and picturesque neighborhood in Paris, known for its bohemian past and as a haven for artists. Situated on a large hill in the 18th arrondissement, it offers a unique blend of artistic history, charming streets, and stunning views of the city.

Montmartre was the center of the art world in the early 20th century, attracting famous artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec. This artistic legacy is still evident in the area's numerous studios and galleries.

The best way to explore Montmartre is on foot. Wander through its steep, cobbled streets and discover hidden gems around every corner. The area is dotted with quaint cafes and bistros where you can enjoy a coffee or a meal while soaking in the local atmosphere.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of Paris's most iconic landmarks, renowned for its imposing structure, ornate design, and historical significance.

The cathedral was reopened in December of 2024 following completion of the restoration work five years after the fire that destroyed the cathedral's spire and roof and caused extensive damage to its interior in April of 2019.

The cathedral's French Gothic architecture is exemplified by its flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and large, colorful rose windows. Its twin towers rise to a height of 69 meters (226 feet), offering a commanding view of Paris.

The western facade is adorned with intricate sculptures and gargoyles. The three portals depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, the Last Judgment, and scenes from the life of Saint Anne.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica (the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris) is a prominent landmark and a symbol of hope and faith of Paris. Perched atop the highest point of the city, Montmartre hill, it offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, apart from being an architectural marvel.

While the views are great from the base of the cathedral, we strongly recommend climbing up to the dome to get the best panoramic views of Paris.

The basilica is renowned for its stunning Romano-Byzantine architecture, with its white domes being a distinctive feature visible across much of Paris. The design includes a large central dome, four smaller domes, a grand portico with three arches, and a bell tower housing one of the world's heaviest bells.

The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with a large mosaic of Christ in Majesty, one of the largest in the world, dominating the apse. The interior is adorned with sculptures, paintings, and stained-glass windows, adding to the spiritual and artistic ambiance.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris — an iconic symbol of French national pride. It was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz and was completed in 1836 and stands as a tribute to the French army, particularly those who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

The monument stands 50 meters (164 feet) tall and is intricately decorated with reliefs and sculptures depicting various battles and military achievements. The names of 660 generals and the great victories are inscribed on its surfaces.

You can climb to the top of the arc for panoramic views of Paris. From this vantage point, you can see the alignment of the twelve radiating avenues, including the Champs-Élysées.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Champs-Élysées, often referred to as "the most beautiful avenue in the world," is a symbol of Parisian style and elegance, embodying the city's reputation as a global fashion and culture capital.

It stretches for 1.2 miles from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Whether you're shopping, dining, or simply taking in the sights, this iconic avenue offers a quintessential Parisian experience.

We recommend leisurely strolling down the boulevard, admiring the architecture, and making small detours that fit your travel style best:

• There are several notable buildings, including the Grand Palais, an exhibition hall and museum complex, and the Petit Palais.

• The avenue is renowned for its luxury stores, theaters, and cafes. It's home to flagship stores of major global brands, making it a paradise for shoppers.

• The avenue is also lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and movie theaters, offering plenty of options for dining and entertainment.

And don't forget to experience it both during day and at night.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Luxembourg Gardens, or Jardin du Luxembourg, is one of Paris's most beloved public parks, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Adjacent to the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate, these gardens are renowned for their beautiful layout, serene ambiance, and cultural significance.

The gardens are adorned with over 100 statues, monuments, and fountains, including a series of statues of French queens and female saints. One of the garden's most famous features, the Medici Fountain, built in 1630, is a romantic spot, surrounded by statues and shaded by trees.

The 17th-century palace adds to the grandeur of the gardens. While the palace itself is not generally open to the public, its presence enhances the garden's regal atmosphere.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Moulin Rouge is a world-famous cabaret known for being the birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance. Opened in 1889, the Moulin Rouge is recognized by its red windmill on the roof and has long been a symbol of Parisian nightlife, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The Moulin Rouge is renowned for its extravagant performances, featuring elaborate costumes, dazzling lights, and talented dancers. The shows often include a mix of cabaret, ballet, and acrobatic acts, set to original music.

The venue played a significant role in the development of the cabaret genre and has been a cultural landmark in Paris for over a century. It has been featured in various films and artworks, adding to its iconic status.

The interior of the Moulin Rouge is sumptuously decorated, providing an immersive and authentic Belle Époque cabaret experience.

The Moulin Rouge offers dinner-and-show packages, allowing guests to enjoy a gourmet meal before the performance. The cuisine is typically French and is often accompanied by champagne.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Musée d'Orsay is one of Paris's most beloved and visited museums. Housed in a grand Beaux-Arts railway station built between 1898 and 1900, it's renowned for its rich collection of masterpieces, making it an essential visit for art lovers exploring Paris.

The museum boasts the world's largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. It includes works by painters such as Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, Seurat, Sisley, Gauguin, and Van Gogh.

In addition to paintings, the museum has an impressive collection of sculptures, photography, and decorative arts from the period between 1848 and 1914.

The building itself is an art piece, with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture. The interior, including the grand hallway and vast clock windows, offers a unique and photogenic environment.

If you decide to spend a few hours in the museum, we recommend refueling at a wonderful on-site restaurant for delicious food and amazing views of the city and Seine River.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

The Panthéon is a mausoleum containing the remains of distinguished French citizens. Modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, it is a striking feature in the Parisian skyline.

The building is an outstanding example of neoclassical architecture, with its facade modeled on the Pantheon in Rome. The portico is supported by Corinthian columns, leading to a vast interior with a high dome.

Demonstrating the rotation of the Earth, Foucault's Pendulum is one of the key attractions inside. Originally installed in 1851 by physicist Léon Foucault, it's a significant piece of scientific history.

The colonnade of the dome offers a panoramic view of the city, though it's less known compared to other viewing spots in Paris.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

Sainte-Chapelle is a gem of Gothic architecture. Built in the 13th century by King Louis IX, originally to house his collection of Passion relics, including Christ's Crown of Thorns, this royal chapel is renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows.

The most remarkable feature of Sainte-Chapelle is its 15 immense stained-glass windows, depicting 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments recounting the history of the world until the arrival of the relics in Paris.

To fully appreciate the stained glass, visit on a sunny day when the light brings out the vivid colors in the windows.

Along with the stained glass, the chapel is adorned with a beautifully painted ceiling and sculptures. The rich colors and intricate patterns are a testament to the artistry of the era.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

A Seine River Cruise is a quintessential Parisian experience, offering a unique perspective of the city from its historic waterway. These cruises allow you to witness the beauty and architectural grandeur of Paris from a different vantage point, passing by many of the city's most iconic landmarks.

We recommend going on a dinner cruise for a truly magical and romantic setting with many monuments and bridges beautifully illuminated. Check the links section for a list of vetted, top-rated providers from Fyno travel curators.

Word from curator

Catherine, Paris expert

Shakespeare & Company is one of the most famous independent bookstores in the world. This iconic English-language bookstore, originally established in 1919 by Sylvia Beach and later reopened in 1951 by George Whitman, has long been a meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals.

The bookstore has a rich history as a gathering place for famous writers like Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, Ezra Pound, and many others. It's been a center of Anglophone literary culture in Paris for decades.

Packed with books from floor to ceiling, the store has a charming and cozy feel, with reading nooks, old typewriters, and beds where aspiring writers can stay.

There's a café next to the bookstore where you can enjoy a coffee or a light meal with views of Notre-Dame.

Pro tip: consider buying a book as a souvenir. The store stamps books with its iconic logo, making it a unique keepsake or gift.