Paris Highlights: A 3-Day Itinerary

Notre Dame:

Plan to arrive early as to avoid the wait in line if you have not purchased your tickets in advance. While touring Notre Dame is free, there are exhibits inside that charge a small fee. If time and your budget permit, take a self-guided tour of the Notre Dame Treasury, which includes fragments from Christ’s Crown of Thorns. Plan to stay a couple of hours to truly see everything Notre Dame has to offer.

Sainte-Chapelle:

A short walk from Notre Dame, you will find Sainte-Chapelle. Again, plan on waiting in line if you have not purchased your tickets ahead of time. Originally part of the royal palace, Sainte-Chapelle is like taking a step back in time. Equally fun for guests of all ages is the ability to take a picture with the provided iPad to see what life would have been like hundreds of years ago.

Eiffel Tower:

It is best to book tickets in advance if possible, especially if wanting to go to the top. If your schedule allows, arrive in time for sunset to see some amazing views and grab some great pictures. There are various dining options while making your way to the top as well. Be sure to grab a drink or even have a sit-down meal.

Private Louvre tour:

The day began in the most extraordinary way—with a private guided tour of the Louvre. Walking through the grand halls with an expert guide brought the museum’s treasures to life, from ancient artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces. Of course, the highlight was standing just a few steps away from the world’s most famous painting, the Mona Lisa. Yet the Louvre is so much more than a single masterpiece; with its vast collection spanning centuries and civilizations, one could easily spend an entire day—or even a week—uncovering its wonders without ever seeing the same thing twice.

Shop:

Make your way to The Champs-Élysées, which is perhaps Paris’ most famous shopping street, known for its blend of luxury and fast-fashion brands, cafes, and historic monuments. If luxury shopping is on your bucket list, make your way to Rue Cambon for all of the luxury shopping houses.

Spend the day at the Palace of Versailles:

Start your day by walking the magnificent property and gardens. The grounds include plentiful gardens and fountains at every turn. Return inside to view the interior of the Palace of Versailles features lavish, gold-accented rooms with high-ceilinged halls, such as the Hall of Mirrors, known for its extensive use of mirrors and paintings depicting Louis XIV’s victories. Other highlights include the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments

After returning to Paris, spend your time walking the streets, book a Seine River cruise, or make your way to Paris Catacombs.