Paris isn’t just a city of iconic landmarks and rich history—it’s also a shopping paradise. This Paris Itinerary combines must-see sights with top shopping experiences, ensuring you explore the City of Light in style. Here’s a detailed plan, including destinations, their addresses, and the best times to visit, to help you make the most of your time. This guide will show you exactly how to spend 3 days in Paris.
Day 1: Classic Paris Highlights & Elegant Shopping
Morning
1. Eiffel Tower
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- Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris.
- Highlights: Begin your day with Paris’s most iconic landmark. You can walk around the base of the Eiffel Tower for free or head to the summit for panoramic views. For an unforgettable experience, consider a breakfast at 58 Tour Eiffel (located on the first floor).
- Travel Tip: Arrive early (around 9 AM) to avoid crowds and book tickets online at toureiffel.paris.
2. Trocadéro Gardens
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- Address: Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75116 Paris
- Highlights: The Trocadéro Gardens offer a picture-perfect spot for Eiffel Tower photos, framed by fountains and lush greenery. Walk through the esplanade to enjoy street performers or sit at a nearby café for a quintessential Parisian morning.
Afternoon
3. Seine River Cruise
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- Boarding Points: Vedettes du Pont Neuf (1 Square du Vert Galant, 75001 Paris) or Bateaux Parisiens (Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris)
- Highlights: A Seine River cruise is a relaxing way to see Paris’s landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Orsay Museum. Most cruises last about an hour and provide commentary in multiple languages.
- Upgrade Option: Opt for a lunch cruise for an elevated experience with gourmet French cuisine.
4. Champs-Élysées Shopping
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- Address: Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris
- Highlights: This world-famous avenue is lined with high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton, as well as global brands such as Zara and Nike. Stop at Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées for luxury shopping in a stunning art deco setting.
- Dining Tip: Rest your feet with coffee and pastries at Ladurée (75 Av. des Champs-Élysées), known for its exquisite macarons.
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Evening
5. Arc de Triomphe
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- Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
- Highlights: Climb the 284 steps to the top of this monumental arch for breathtaking views of Paris’s symmetrical streets. The Arc honors French soldiers and features the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath it.
- Photo Tip: The best time to visit is at sunset or nighttime when the city lights come alive.
Day 2: Artistic & Cultural Paris with Chic Boutiques
Morning
1. Louvre Museum
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- Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
- Highlights: The Louvre, a former royal palace, is now the world’s largest art museum. Plan your visit to see the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Wedding at Cana.
- Travel Tip: Download the Louvre app to navigate the museum efficiently. Reserve at least 2-3 hours for this visit.
2. Tuileries Garden
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- Address: Place de la Concorde, 75001 Paris
- Highlights: Stroll through this beautifully landscaped garden filled with fountains, sculptures, and benches. You’ll often find locals and tourists enjoying a quiet moment here.
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Afternoon
3. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
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- Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
- Highlights: Explore the bohemian heart of Paris. Visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica, known for its stunning interiors and views from the dome. Walk through Place du Tertre, where street artists create portraits and caricatures on the spot.
- Dining Tip: Stop at Le Consulat (18 Rue Norvins), a charming café steeped in history.
4. Le Marais Shopping
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- Address: Start at Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, 75004 Paris
- Highlights: Le Marais offers a mix of high-end boutiques and independent stores. Visit Merci for chic home goods and fashion or Shakespeare and Company nearby for book lovers.
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Evening
5. Moulin Rouge
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- Address: 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris
- Highlights: This world-famous cabaret features extravagant costumes and performances. Arrive early for dinner and enjoy French cuisine before the show begins.
- Tip: Book tickets in advance to secure a seat, especially during weekends.
Day 3: Hidden Gems in Paris and Luxurious Shopping
Morning
1. Notre-Dame Cathedral
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- Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
- Highlights: While the cathedral is under restoration, you can still marvel at its Gothic architecture and nearby attractions like the Crypte Archéologique.
2. Sainte-Chapelle
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- Address: 8 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris
- Highlights: This medieval chapel dazzles with its floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows, a true feast for the eyes.
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Afternoon
3. Galeries Lafayette & Printemps
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- Address: 40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris (Galeries Lafayette)
- Highlights: These department stores are synonymous with luxury shopping. Browse everything from high-end fashion to French perfumes. Don’t miss Galeries Lafayette’s Cupola and rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Paris.
4. Rue Saint-Honoré
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- Address: Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris
- Highlights: A haven for fashion lovers, this street is home to designer boutiques like Hermès and Chanel.
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Evening
5. Dinner Cruise on the Seine
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- Boarding Points: Vedettes du Pont Neuf or Bateaux Parisiens
- Highlights: A Seine dinner cruise is a magical way to end your trip, with gourmet meals and views of illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.
Extra Shopping Suggestions
- Boulevard Saint-Germain: Great for mid-range brands like Sandro and chic bookstores.
- Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: Discover antiques and quirky treasures at this famous flea market.
- Place Vendôme: Indulge in luxury at jewelry stores like Cartier and Boucheron.
Travel & Shopping Tips
- Tax Refunds: Spend over €100 in one store to qualify for VAT refunds. Request a détaxe form before you leave.
- Transport: A Paris Métro pass saves time and money when traveling between shopping and sightseeing spots.
- Packing: Leave extra space in your luggage for Parisian treasures!
This itinerary offers the perfect balance of iconic landmarks, shopping, and cultural experiences, helping you make the most of your time in Paris. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more, this guide on how to spend 3 days in Paris ensures you don’t miss a thing. With these recommendations, you’ll know exactly how to spend 3 days in Paris and create unforgettable memories.
