How to Spend 2 Days in Paris: 2024 Backpacker's Guide
Have a layover or passing through Paris and only have 2 days? This guide is designed to help you make the most of your two days in Paris, focusing on the city's must-see attractions, top dining spots, and nightlife options that cater to both budget and style.
Paris, the City of Light, is a dream destination for travelers from around the world, but when you only have a couple days it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what to cram into your itinerary during your visit. We've put together a 2-day itinerary for you to assist you first time visitors to get the most out of their short visit whether, backpacking or just enjoying an extended layover - this is a great way to spend two days in Paris!
Where to Stay
To be in the heart of the action, consider staying in the Marais district. This area offers a blend of historic charm and modern convenience, with easy access to major attractions like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Seine River. The Marais is also known for its trendy boutiques, lively cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
For budget-conscious travelers, the Latin Quarter is an excellent alternative. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and student-friendly prices, this area is home to affordable hostels and budget hotels. The Latin Quarter is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
View our full guide to learn which areas of Paris cost more or less to stay in.
Day 1: Iconic Paris
Morning:
- Breakfast Option 1: Café de Flore, one of the oldest and most iconic cafes in Paris, offers a classic Parisian breakfast.
- Breakfast Option 2: Holybelly 5, a popular spot known for its hearty breakfast and coffee.
Start your day early at the Eiffel Tower. Arrive as soon as it opens to beat the crowds and enjoy stunning views of the city. If you're up for a quintessential Parisian experience, consider visiting the Eiffel Tower Summit during this time. Allocate about 1.5 to 3 hours for the full experience, including elevator rides, exploring the different levels, and taking in the views from the top.
You can combine your Eiffel Tower visit with a meal at one of the tower’s renowned restaurants:
- Lunch or Dinner Option 1: Le 58 Tour Eiffel on the first floor offers a casual dining experience with a fantastic view.
- Lunch or Dinner Option 2: Le Jules Verne on the second floor is a Michelin-starred restaurant, perfect for a luxurious meal with panoramic views.
After your Eiffel Tower experience, take a leisurely walk along the Champs-Élysées, stopping by the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for another fantastic view.
Lunch
(if not dining at the Eiffel Tower):
- Lunch Option 1: L'As du Fallafel, famous for its delicious and affordable falafel.
- Lunch Option 2: Café Constant, offering traditional French cuisine at reasonable prices.
After lunch, head to the Louvre Museum. Depending on your interest and available time, you can tailor your visit:
- Quick Visit (2-3 hours): Focus on the highlights, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace.
- Standard Visit (4-5 hours): Explore multiple wings and see more of the museum's vast collection at a relaxed pace.
- Full-Day Visit (7-9 hours): If you're an art enthusiast, consider spending the entire day delving into the museum's rich offerings, covering everything from ancient artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces.
Evening
(if not dining at the Eiffel Tower):
- Dinner Option 1: If you didn’t dine at Le Jules Verne earlier, consider it for dinner now.
- Dinner Option 2: Le 58 Tour Eiffel for a more casual dining experience.
After dinner, unwind at Le Comptoir Général, a quirky and laid-back bar with a unique vibe, located by the Canal Saint-Martin. If you're in the mood for something livelier, head to O’Sullivans by the Mill, a lively pub near the Moulin Rouge known for its fun atmosphere, live music, and no-guest-list entry.
Day 2: Cultural and Artistic Paris
Morning:
- Breakfast Option 1: La Maison Rose, a charming cafe in Montmartre, perfect for a picturesque start to the day.
- Breakfast Option 2: Clint, offering a modern take on breakfast with plenty of options.
Begin your second day in Montmartre, the historic artists' quarter. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking views over Paris. Wander through the cobbled streets, exploring artists' studios and charming cafes.
Lunch:
- Lunch Option 1: Le Consulat, a historic cafe that was a favorite of Picasso.
- Lunch Option 2: Chez Plumeau, offering a relaxed atmosphere and traditional French cuisine.
After lunch, make your way to the Musée d'Orsay. Housed in a former railway station, this museum features an incredible collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Don't miss works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
Evening:
- Dinner Option 1: Bistrot Paul Bert, known for its classic French dishes and cozy atmosphere.
- Dinner Option 2: Au Pied de Cochon, a Parisian institution famous for its hearty fare.
After dinner, enjoy the Parisian nightlife with a visit to Le Piano Vache, a lively, old-school bar in the Latin Quarter known for its eclectic music and relaxed vibe. Alternatively, stop by La Bellevilloise, a dynamic venue in the 20th arrondissement offering live music, dancing, and cultural events, all with no need for a guest list.
Alternate Attractions:
If you want to tailor your Paris experience or swap out any of the above stops, here are four other must-see attractions, including the famous Catacombs:
- The Catacombs of Paris: Explore the eerie underground ossuaries that house the remains of over six million people. The labyrinth of tunnels is both fascinating and haunting, offering a unique perspective on Parisian history.
- Musée Rodin: If you're a fan of sculpture, the Musée Rodin is a must-visit. Set in a beautiful mansion with tranquil gardens, it showcases the works of Auguste Rodin, including "The Thinker" and "The Kiss." Visit the Musée Rodin.
- Palace of Versailles: Just outside Paris, this opulent palace is one of the most stunning royal residences in the world. Spend a half-day exploring the Hall of Mirrors, the royal apartments, and the sprawling gardens. Visit Versailles.
- Père Lachaise Cemetery: Pay your respects to famous figures like Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Edith Piaf in this historic cemetery. It's a peaceful and reflective place, rich in history and artistry.
These options allow you to customize your itinerary, ensuring you experience Paris in a way that resonates most with your interests. We recommend spending an hour before you arrive, learning how to get around and learning the city on a map so that you aren't wasting so much time trying to get to where you need to be, as that can suck up too much of your available time, and can quickly see two days come and go if you aren't familiar with the "City of Light".
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Sara Miller