Paris is one of those cities that somehow lives up to the hype - from grand boulevards and historic landmarks to charming cafés tucked away on quiet corners.
Getting around Paris is incredibly straightforward. The Metro is fast, affordable, and well-connected, while the buses are a great option if you'd rather enjoy the scenery as you travel. With a little planning, it's easy to see the city's biggest highlights in just two days without feeling rushed.
Practical tips before you go
For a short city break, I'd highly recommend travelling by Eurostar. The journey is relaxed, straightforward, and far more enjoyable than dealing with airports.
Although Paris is very walkable, don't feel like you must walk everywhere. The Metro and bus network are excellent and can save plenty of time between attractions. I found using public transport meant I had far more energy to enjoy each stop rather than spending hours walking across the city.
Comfortable shoes are essential. You'll naturally find yourself wandering through neighbourhoods, stopping at cafés, and discovering places you hadn't planned to visit.
If you're only visiting for two days, staying somewhere central is worthwhile. It cuts down on travel time and makes it easy to head back for a short rest before going back out in the evening.
Day 1
After dropping off your luggage, I'd start by heading towards the Latin Quarter. This was one of my favourite areas of Paris, with its lively atmosphere, independent cafés, historic streets and plenty of places to stop for lunch. It feels authentic without being overwhelming and gives you a real sense of Parisian life.
From there, make your way to the Musée d'Orsay. Even if you're not usually someone who spends hours in museums, this one is well worth visiting. The collection includes masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir and many other world-famous artists, all housed inside a stunning former railway station. The building itself is almost as impressive as the artwork.
Later in the afternoon, take a scenic river cruise down the Siene before heading towards Place de la Concorde and strolling along the Champs-Élysées. While it's famous for luxury shopping, what I enjoyed most was simply sitting at one of the outdoor cafés, watching the world go by with a drink and something to eat. It's the perfect place to slow the pace for a while.
As evening arrives, make your way to the Eiffel Tower, it is particularly beautiful as the lights begin to sparkle after dark. It's one of those moments that really makes you appreciate being in Paris.
Day 2
Start the morning at Sacré-Cœur, sitting high above the city in Montmartre. The climb is certainly worth it, with panoramic views stretching across Paris. If you'd rather avoid the steps, there's also a funicular railway that takes visitors most of the way to the top.
After taking in the views, spend some time wandering through the surrounding streets of Montmartre. The neighbourhood has a completely different atmosphere from the rest of the city, with artists, cafés and beautiful side streets that are perfect for exploring at a slower pace.
From there, head towards Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, one of Paris' most elegant shopping streets. Even if luxury shopping isn't on your itinerary, it's an enjoyable area to stroll through and admire the beautiful architecture and designer storefronts.
The afternoon is ideal for revisiting any favourite areas, enjoying another leisurely café lunch, or simply wandering through Paris without a strict plan. Some of the city's best moments come from discovering quiet streets, local bakeries and hidden squares you weren't expecting to find.
Before heading home, treat yourself to one final coffee and pastry while soaking up the atmosphere. Paris has a way of making even the simplest moments feel memorable.
How much spending money do I need for 2 days in Paris?
If your accommodation and transport are already paid for, I'd recommend budgeting around €350-€500 for two adults over two days. This comfortably covers lunches, dinners, coffee stops, pastries, public transport, museums, river cruise tickets and a few souvenirs.
Of course, it's easy to spend more if you plan on shopping, particularly around the Champs-Élysées or Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.
Quick Summary: 2 Days in Paris
Day 1
- Travel by Eurostar
- Explore the Latin Quarter
- Visit the Musée d'Orsay
- Place de la Concorde
- Siene cruise / Lunch or coffee on the Champs-Élysées
- Eiffel Tower
Day 2
- Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre
- Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
- Relaxed café lunch
- Explore central Paris
- Final coffee and pastry before heading home
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