Visit Paris in 2 days
20 must-see POIs, optimized routes and anecdotes.
2-day Paris itinerary: classics and secret strolls
Going to Paris for a weekend is to embrace a pace that blends slow strolls with tight discoveries. I offer you a 2-day itinerary that starts at the Saint-Eustache Church and ends at the Luxembourg Garden, linking must-see monuments, streets rich in history and small stops to feel the city's air. The idea is to alternate big sites and breaks to enjoy a coffee or a sunny bench.
Day 1 will navigate between the historic heart and the Louvre: Saint-Eustache Church, Place des Vosges, Port of Arsenal, Saint-Jacques Tower and the Louvre Museum serve as a thread. Day 2 takes you toward the classic grand perspectives: the Luxor Obelisk, Pont Alexandre III, the Tuileries Garden and the Pantheon, before concluding at the calm of the Luxembourg Garden.
I will share practical tips for where to sleep, how to get around and what to book to keep your short stay smooth. Nothing is fixed: adapt the tempo to your wishes, favor walking for the narrow streets and plan a gourmand break when a market or pastry shop catches your eye. I also add extras — less frequented museums, thematic strolls and even urban escape games — to vary the experience.
If you're looking for a stroll that blends art, architecture and green spaces without rushing, this plan fits two well-filled but pleasant days. I guide you step by step, with practical landmarks and suggestions to turn these 48 hours into lasting memories.
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You will visit the most beautiful points of interest in Paris
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Quick guide — 2 days in Paris
Day 1 (morning): Start at the Saint-Eustache Church then head to the National Archives and the Georges-Cain Square. Continue toward the Place des Vosges for a coffee break, then walk to the Port of Arsenal along the Seine.
Day 1 (afternoon): Reach the Quai de l'Horloge, explore the Saint-Jacques Tower and the Stravinsky Fountain, cross the Clock District to end the day at the Louvre Museum, ideally at sunset to enjoy the façades.
Day 2 (morning): Start with the Luxor Obelisk, then admire the Marly Horses, cross the Pont Alexandre III and stroll through the Tuileries Garden, before reaching the Place Vendôme.
Day 2 (afternoon): After a break, head to the Samuel-Paty Square, the Sorbonne Observatory and the Pantheon. End at the Odéon Theatre and a moment of relaxation in the Luxembourg Garden. This summary helps you stay on track while leaving room to wander.
Day 1 - Paris
10 POIs to discoverDay 1 - Morning à Paris
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 3.2 km - Walking : 0h43Saint-Eustache Church
- Saint-Eustache church has existed since the early XIIIᵉ century, the first building constructed was a chapel dedicated to Saint Agnes.
- The current version of 'church was built between 1532 and 1633.
- Saint Eustache de Macon was a Roman general who converted to Christianity.
- It features his symbols, such as the intertwined letters S and E, a hunting horn and a stag bearing a cross between its antlers.
- King François 1ᵉʳ, who was behind the project, wanted to build an edifice capable of rivaling Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris.
- Saint-Eustache church has been the site of numerous baptisms, weddings and burials of great personalities.
- For example, Molière and Madame de Pompadour were baptized here.
- Others are buried here, such as Jean de la Fontaine and Mozart's mother.
Square Georges-Cain
- Georges Cain was a French painter, illustrator and writer.
- In the center of the garden is a bronze statue of Aristide Maillol, French painter, engraver and sculptor.
- The square also houses a lapidary museum with archaeological finds and historical relics of Paris.
- The square is planted with many species, including a fig tree over 6 meters high.
- In addition to the statue of Aristide Maillol, the square is home to a sound creation called "Le Rossignol de Heinz", powered by solar collectors.
Archives nationales
- The National Archives were created in 1790 and preserve a total of 373 linear km of archives, covering the history of France since the 7th century.
- Contains the archives of most of the central agencies of the French state.
- The Ministries of Defense, Economy and Finance, and Foreign Affairs have had their own archival services since the 18th century.
- Documents held in the National Archives can be consulted and reused free of charge.
Place des Vosges
- This is the oldest square in Paris, known by various names such as Place Royale and Place de la République.
- It owes its name to the Vosges department, the first to pay taxes during the French Revolution.
- It has been home to many political, artistic and media personalities.
- Along with the Place des Victoires, the Place Dauphine, the Place Vendôme and the Place de la Concorde, it is one of the five royal squares in Paris.
- In the center of the square is the Square Louis-XIII, adorned with four fountains.
Bassin de l'Arsenal
- The Bassin de l'Arsenal, also known as the Port de l'Arsenal, is a boat basin.
- It links the Canal Saint-Martin to the Seine and is part of the Réseau des Canaux Parisiens (Parisian Canal Network).
- An arsenal existed at this location from the 16th to 19th centuries, which is where the basin gets its name.
- After the Bastille fortress was destroyed in 1789, the Bassin de l'Arsenal was excavated to replace the fortress's ditch.
- The Bassin de l'Arsenal was a commercial port during the 19th and 20th centuries, until it was converted into a leisure port in 1983.
- It is currently a marina for about 180 pleasure boats and is part of France's national Navigable Waterways system (Voies navigables de France).
Day 1 - Afternoon à Paris
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 2.6 km - Walking : 0h34Quai de l'Horloge
- The quay takes its name from the clock that adorns the tower of the Palais de la Cité.
- Construction work on the quay began in 1580 and was completed in 1611.
- Over the centuries, it has been given various names, such as "Quai des Grand-Cours-d'Eau", "Quai des Morfondus" and "Quai du Nord".
- Quai de l'Horloge houses the Conciergerie, which includes Gothic rooms, as well as the Court of Cassation.
- It is also lined by other notable buildings, such as the Hôtel de Harlay and former optician's workshops.
Louvre Museum
- Inaugurated in 1793, the Louvre is one of the three largest art museums in the world, along with the Hermitage Museum and the National Museum of China.
- The museum houses more than 500,000 works, including La Joconde, the Venus de Milo and the Code of Hammurabi.
- The Louvre Palace, which houses the museum, is a former royal residence.
- The museum is recognizable by the glass pyramid in its reception hall, erected in 1989.
- The Louvre Museum, which houses the museum, is a former royal residence.
Quartier de l'Horloge
- The "Defender of Time" clock was inaugurated in October 1979 and was a point of attraction in the district.
- The automaton depicts a man wielding a sword and shield, fighting animals symbolizing the elements: the crab for the sea, the dragon for the land and the bird for the sky.
- Every hour, between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m., the automaton is attacked by one of the animals, accompanied by an appropriate soundtrack.
- The automatons operate on pneumatic cylinders and are controlled by a random programming system.
- Maintenance problems began in 1992, when the association in charge of the neighborhood decided that it would no longer bear the maintenance costs.
- Several funding proposals were made, but none came to fruition, leading to the clock's closure..
Saint-Jacques Tower
- It is the only vestige of the Saint-Jacques-la-Boucherie church in Paris.
- The tower-belfry was built between 1509 and 1523.
- It was once a place of pilgrimage and worship for local shopkeepers.
- A plaque donated by Spain in 1965 makes it a symbolic starting point for pilgrims to Compostela.
- Blaise Pascal carried out experiments here on the gravity of air.
- From 1891, the tower housed a meteorological station studying the climatology of Paris.
Stravinsky Fountain
- The Stravinsky Fountain is a public commission created as part of the construction of the Pompidou Center.
- The work is composed of sixteen sculptures representing different musical compositions by Igor Stravinsky.
- The sculptures are made of resin or an assemblage of resin and metal elements.
- The fountain includes a reduced version of Niki de Saint Phalle's monumental "Sun God" sculpture, titled "L'Oiseau de feu." In 2022, renovation work was announced for the fountain, which had been out of order for several years.
Day 2 - Paris
10 POIs to discoverDay 2 - Morning à Paris
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 2.2 km - Walking : 0h28Luxor Obelisk
- The obelisk comes from the Temple of Amun in Luxor, Egypt, and was erected in Paris in 1836.
- It is the oldest monument in Paris, predating the founding of the capital.
- It was transported from Egypt to France aboard the ship Luxor, built especially for the occasion.
- The obelisk is 23 meters high and weighs 222 tons, with a pedestal weighing 240 tons.
- It is made of syenite, a pink rock from Aswan, Egypt.
- The obelisk's pedestal is made of five blocks of pink granite from Brittany.
- The obelisk is made of pink granite from Brittany.
Alexandre III Bridge
- This steel-arched bridge crosses the Seine and links the esplanade des Invalides and avenue Winston-Churchill, where the Petit Palais and Grand Palais are located.
- It is named after the Russian Tsar Alexander III.
- It was built between 1896 and 1900 in the Beaux-Arts style with Art Nouveau lamps, cherubs, nymphs and winged horses.
- It was inaugurated in 1900 for the Paris Universal Exhibition.
Marly's horses
- These 2 sculptures represent rearing horses struggling with their grooms, expressing the struggle of wild forces.
- They were sculpted in Carrara marble in 1745 by Guillaume Coustou.
- They were commissioned by Louis XV to adorn the Marly trough, at the entrance to the chateau park.
- In 1794, the sculptures were moved here, to the Place de la Concorde.
- In 1984, copies in reconstituted marble were installed.
- The originals are preserved in the Louvre Museum. .
Tuileries Gardens
- This is the oldest and largest garden in Paris.
- It was created in the 16th century by Catherine de Médicis as an Italian-style garden to escape the stressful atmosphere of the Louvre.
- Some of the garden's trees even date back to the 1st Empire.
- The Jardin des Tuileries is an open-air museum with remarkable sculptures signed by renowned artists such as Rodin, Millet, Levesque and Waldeck-Rousseau.
- The garden is also home to the Musée de l'Orangerie and the Musée du Jeu de Paume.
- The Jardin des Tuileries carousel offers musical rides on wooden horses and ostriches.
- Don't miss the sailboats you can sail in the garden's octagonal basin.
Place Vendôme
- Place Vendôme is one of the city's five royal squares, along with Place des Victoires, Place de la Concorde, Place des Vosges and Place Dauphine.
- It was created in 1686 and has been renamed several times over the years.
- At the center of the square is the Vendôme column, erected in 1810, destroyed by the population during the 1871 revolts and subsequently rebuilt.
- Before being associated with jewelry, the Place Vendôme was a central location for Parisian elegance, home to numerous couturiers and milliners.
- On the square, the Hôtel de Bourvallais houses the Ministry of Justice.
- The square is located just north of the magnificent Jardin des Tuileries.
Day 2 - Afternoon à Paris
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 2 km - Walking : 0h26
Samuel-Paty Park
- Place Samuel-Paty is home to several sculptures, including a monument to Puvis de Chavannes, another to Octave Gréard, a statue of Montaigne and the Capitoline She-Wolf.
- The statue of Montaigne became famous among students at the Sorbonne, who believed that touching his right shoe would bring good luck in exams.A French painter.
- Puvis de Chavannes was a French painter, considered a forerunner of symbolism.
- Octave Gréard was a French pedagogue and academic.
Astronomy tower of the Sorbonne
- The Sorbonne Observatory is a former astronomical observatory.
- The observatory is located on the rooftop of the Sorbonne.
- It houses an observational telescope belonging to the Société astronomique de France (SAF) and public observations are organized there.
Jardin du Luxembourg
- The Luxembourg Garden is a public garden created in 1612 at the request of Marie de Medici and now belonging to the Senate.
- Its name is inspired by the former mansion of the Hôtel de Luxembourg.
- It houses the Palais du Luxembourg, seat of the French Senate, and the Petit Luxembourg.
- The Petit Luxembourg or Hôtel de la Présidence has been the residence of the President of the French Senate since 1825.
- It is adjacent to the Luxembourg Palace.
- In 2022, the garden was listed as the most beautiful in Europe and the third most beautiful in the world.
Panthéon
- The Pantheon is a neoclassical mausoleum located on Mont Sainte-Geneviève, which has become the burial place of great French personalities.
- Its architecture (from 1758), as well as its name, is inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, which was a monument dedicated to the veneration of the gods and was reused as the tomb of illustrious personalities.
- Pantheon's architecture mixes different styles, including Gothic, Byzantine, Classical and Greco-Roman. Among those buried in the Pantheon are Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, Jean Jaurès, Jean Moulin, Louis Braille, Jean Monnet, Sadi Carnot, Pierre and Marie Curie, André Malraux and Soufflot, its architect.
- In 1851 Léon Foucault installed his famous pendulum in the Pantheon because the great height of the building facilitated the experiment.
- Through this experiment he succeeded in demonstrating the rotation of the Earth and the existence of the Coriolis force.
- A replica of the pendulum has been installed in the Pantheon since 1995.
Odéon-Théâtre de l'Europe
- The Théâtre national de l'Odéon, now called Odéon-Théâtre de l'Europe since 1990, is a public theater.
- It has witnessed many cultural and political events over the years.
- Opened in 1782, its architecture is neoclassical.
- Home to the premiere of The Marriage of Figaro in 1784.
Practical details for visiting Paris
Where to stay
For a weekend centered on this itinerary, opt for accommodation in the 1st, 2nd, 4th or 6th arrondissement: proximity to sites, metro access and Parisian atmosphere. The 1st puts the Louvre within reach; the 4th is perfect for the Marais and its historic vibe; the 6th offers direct access to the Luxembourg Garden and the Latin Quarter.
Types of accommodation: boutique hotels for a refined experience, rental apartments if you value privacy, or budget hotels if you spend little time in the room. In high season, simple rooms near the center can rise in price, while charming small addresses remain a good option for the local experience.
Indicative average prices: expect rates to vary by season and proximity to sites. Look for options with good metro connection and recent reviews to avoid surprises. Booking in advance often allows better conditions.
Getting around
Paris is best discovered on foot; walking remains the best way to feel the city between two monuments. For longer distances, the metro is fast and dense, the bus offers views along the way, and bike-sharing remains a convenient option for short hops. Plan mixed trips: walking in the morning and public transit for longer crossings.
Practical tips: download a transit app to view lines and schedules, buy tickets single or in carnet depending on usage. For strolls along the Seine, consider the walking time between the quays and the main sites. If you travel light, the bike can shorten transfer times while staying pleasant.
For a weekend, combine walking and a few rides on the metro; you will avoid fatigue without sacrificing visits.
What to pack
For two days in Paris, limit yourself to the essentials: comfortable clothes for walking, a pair of suitable shoes and a versatile light jacket. Depending on the season, adjust: warm layers in cold periods, breathable clothing and a hat in summer. Don’t forget a small day bag to carry a water bottle, a guide and a camera.
Useful accessories: an external battery for your phone, a compact umbrella if the weather is uncertain, and a copy of your reservations. If you plan museum visits, a bag that opens easily helps with security checks. Museums and some sites sometimes require a small bag under supervision; favor a bag that closes well.
Keep in mind comfort, versatility and rain protection so that your two days stay pleasant.
Reservations in advance
For a weekend focused on major sites, it is highly recommended to plan certain reservations: skip-the-line tickets for the Louvre Museum, tickets for temporary exhibitions and seats for shows if you want to see a theater. Booking accommodation and main transport in advance saves you the stress of availability.
Restaurants: if you target well-known tables or very popular places around Place Vendôme or the Marais, think about booking. Evening dining spots fill up quickly, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. For guided tours, opt for morning slots to enjoy the sites before the crowds.
In short, prioritize museums, accommodations, restaurants and possible shows for a stay without unnecessary waiting.
Must-see extras
Beyond the main itinerary, several experiences enrich a short stay: a stroll along the less-frequented quays to see Paris from a different angle, a visit to artisans' workshops in the Marais, or a stop by small bookstores in the Latin Quarter. Also consider thematic walks on Haussmannian architecture and guided cycling tours.
For a fun and immersive activity, try Coddy's urban escape games that turn the city into a playground and offer another reading of streets and monuments. Other useful extras: local markets to taste fresh products, temporary exhibitions off the beaten path, and evening strolls near the Louvre or the Pont Alexandre III to capture the atmosphere.
These options offer variety, immersion and a touch of adventure to complement your visits.
Local delights
Paris is full of culinary pleasures: start the day with a pastry at a good bakery, have a strong coffee on a terrace and try a quick lunch at a nearby brasserie, or a cheese board to share. Look for small markets for fresh produce and local specialties. For dinner, explore bistros in the Latin Quarter or slightly upscale tables around Place Vendôme.
Specialties to taste: classic pastries, local charcuterie and cheeses, simple but well-executed bistro dishes. Don’t hesitate to ask staff at your accommodation or shopkeepers for a recommendation: many will point you to a trusted address off the tourist tracks.
Prioritize freshness, quality and the desire to share culinary discoveries to enrich your weekend.
When to visit Paris and how much it costs
Best seasons
Paris is visitable all year round, but each season has its charm. Spring offers flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for strolling in the gardens and along the quays. Summer brings a lively vibe, more outdoor events and long evenings, but also a tourist crowds that are higher. Autumn reveals warm tones in the parks and shorter lines, ideal for photography enthusiasts. Winter favors museums and heated terraces for a more intimate experience and often slightly lower accommodation rates.
For a two-day short stay, spring and autumn represent a good compromise between pleasant weather and reasonable crowds. If you enjoy a bustling atmosphere, summer remains relevant, but plan reservations. If you seek calm and favorable prices, winter is an option to consider.
Crowds
The sites on this itinerary experience varying levels of crowding. The Louvre Museum and the area around Place Vendôme attract a steady flow of visitors. The busiest periods coincide with school holidays and summer months. To avoid the crowds, opt for visits early in the morning or late afternoon, and plan the most popular sights outside peak hours.
Small squares like Georges-Cain Square or Samuel-Paty Square offer calmer breaks, even during busy periods. On weekdays you'll often enjoy a more breathable atmosphere than on weekends. Adjusting your itinerary to off-peak times lets you better appreciate architecture and details without rushing.
Estimated budget
Budget-friendly: Plan a minimal budget by choosing inexpensive accommodation or a hostel, favoring grab-and-go meals (sandwiches, bakery items) and using the metro rather than taxis. Expect essential admission tickets reduced by booking in advance and walk as much as possible to limit expenses. Tip: opt for lunches in affordable bistros and limit paid extras.
Budget average: With a bit more leeway, choose a comfortable 3-star hotel or a central apartment, mix a few meals in bistros and one or two paid experiences like an exhibition or a show. Use the metro and supplement with a few rides by ride-hailing if needed. This budget allows a good balance of comfort and discoveries without excess.
Comfort budget: For a carefree stay, opt for a 4-star hotel or a charming address, dine in renowned restaurants and book private guided tours or skip-the-line Louvre tickets. Add some extras like private transport if you want to save time. This level offers more flexibility and qualitative experiences.
Frequently asked questions about your stay in Paris
Ending on a sweet note
These two days in Paris are designed to give you a rich glimpse without wearing you out: monuments, strolls and gourmet breaks follow one another to create a pleasant balance. Starting at Saint-Eustache Church and ending at the Luxembourg Garden, you cross through varied atmospheres, from historic squares to soothing green spaces.
Adapt the pace to what you prefer: slow on a sunny bench, push open the door of a church, or linger on an exhibition. Leave margins in your schedule for unexpected discoveries — a shop, a view, a discreet cafe — which often make the best memories.
If you leave with the desire to dive deeper into certain places, this weekend will have given you a solid base to return and explore other neighborhoods. Have a great trip, and make the most of every moment in this city that is as savored as it is visited.
Want more adventure?
Discover our urban escape games to transform your visit into an interactive adventure!
