Last Updated on 10th September 2023 by Sophie Nadeau
If you’re looking to go to Paris for a quick weekend break, then this is the guide for you: a 48 hours rapid overview of the French capital that covers all the bases (and leaves enough places to explore for the next time you visit!) Here’s your Paris in 2 days itinerary and travel guide for the best of Paree…
Psst. If you’re staying in Paris for a longer or shorter time than two days, then be sure to check out our guides to one day in Paris, three days in Paris, and five days in Paris. Those staying a little longer than 2 days might also consider taking a day trip from Paris.
After all, if you ask me, then I must confess that I don’t think that only spending 48 hours in the French capital is nearly enough time to head out of the city.
When it comes to eating out in Paris, you’re spoilt for choice (even if you’re vegan and vegetarian!) Cuisine from across the globe can be found all over the French capital, not to mention that it’s easy to dine out and dine well on almost any budget. For more ideas on where to eat in Paris, check out our foodie guide to Paris.
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Watch my 48 hours in Paris vlog
Is 2 days enough time to visit Paris?
Two days isn’t really enough time to visit Paris, but it’s certainly enough to get enough of a feel for the city, see some of the top attractions, and enjoy some of the foodie culture bthat the city is so known for.
With that being said, if two days is all you have in Paris, then it’s better to go and get a taste for the city than forgo it altogether. The ideal amount of time to explore Paris is at least three to five days.
Day 1 in Paris
Grab a boulangerie breakfast
Since you don’t have too much time to get around and see all of the main attractions of the city, I recommend doing as the French do and grabbing breakfast on the go.
One of my favourite bakeries in Paris is Du Pain et des Idées. This bakery is so successful, that it doesn’t even have to open on the weekends and so is only open from Monday through to Friday. One of the best ways to spend an early morning in Paris is to grab an ‘escargot’ pastry and stroll along Canal Saint Martin.
Le Marais
If you want to get a real feel for the hustle and bustle of the city, then I recommend starting your stay in one of my personal favourite areas of the city, Le Marais. Literally translated into English as ‘the Swamp,’ this area comprises of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of the city (in total, Paris has 20 districts which are known as arrondissements).
Le Marais is a rather unique area of Paris thanks to the fact that, as well as the typical Haussmannian architecture that the city is so synonymous with, much of this area escaped the architectural overhauls of the 19th-century.
Thanks to its plethora of cafés, Le Marais also happens to be the perfect place to grab breakfast in a café. Some of my favourite coffee shops in the area include the Broken Arm, Wild and the Moon (which is an all vegan café), and Ob-La-Di.
Some of the best places to see in Le Marais include the brick-façade houses of Place des Vosges (the oldest planned square in Paris), ascending Tour Saint-Jacques (all that’s left of a medieval church), and enjoying modern art in the Pompidou Centre (purchase your entry tickets here).
When it comes to interesting and cool things to do, there’s no shortage of interesting attractions in Le Marais. For a better insight into the layout of Le Marais (so that you don’t miss anything during a stroll through of the district), be sure to check out our Le Marais walking tour.
Île de la Cité
It doesn’t get much more historic than Île de la Cité, an island in the Seine that is the literal birthplace of the city and boasts must-see Paris monuments in abundance such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte Chapelle, and the Conciergerie (home to the largest gothic Hall in Europe, and where Marie Antoinette was held during the French Revolution).
Other more off the beaten path places to see in the area include Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole (a delightful café that’s home to trailing wisteria in the warmer months of the year), Hôtel Dieu (the oldest hospital in the city), and the oldest clock in Paris.
Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is so-called because, during the Middle Ages, students of the nearby Sorbonne University would converse with one another solely in Latin. Today, the area remains a student hub, littered with bookstores, vintage cinemas, roadside cafés, and a handful of historic museums.
You can’t go wrong by dedicating a few hours to exploring what the 5th arrondissement has to offer, including shopping in little independent boutiques, and perusing the best of English language bookshops in Paris.
Some of the best-known monuments in this area of the city include the Paris Pantheon (buy your ticket here in advance), and the botanical gardens of Jardin des Plantes. If you’re looking to see the best of the 5th arrondissement of Paris, then I recommend following my free and self-guided Latin walking tour.
Seine River Cruise
When it comes to the evening dinner, there is perhaps no better way to see Paris by night than by heading out on a Seine River Cruise. This way, you can see many of the most iconic landmarks (many of which are situated close enough to the water to be enjoyed by boat) such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and Musée d’Orsay (an art museum located within a former train station).
Whether you’re searching for a unique experience, romantic dinner option, or simply want to experience Paris from another angle, you certainly won’t regret booking a River Seine boat cruise while in the French capital.
One of the most affordable options is to take a one hour cruise which will take you past Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and other iconic sights. Find out more details here.
If you’re looking to celebrate an extra special occasion (or someone), then I highly recommend taking an evening dinner cruise. The evening cruises take just over two and a half hours and include drinks, as well as a three course meal (with vegetarian options available). Check prices and availability here.
For even more information, be sure to check out our complete guide to the best Seine River Cruises (for pros and cons and comparisons between the various tickets and cruises available). For some of the top options, check out our guide on how to choose the best Seine River cruise.
Day 2 in Paris
Brunch in Paris
Start the day the right way and head out for a Parisian brunch. Once reserved for just the weekend, today brunch can be found at various spots across the city almost any day of the week. From traditional avocado toast served with vegetable milk coffees to more unique options, check out our recommendations here for the best brunch in Paris.
Montmartre
Of course, no one can miss out on a trip to Montmartre, even during the shortest of layovers in the French capital. The 18th arrondissement is world-famous for its little cobbled alleys, village atmosphere, and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
Please note that I really don’t have that many recommendations for food in Montmartre as most of the options are quite overpriced and touristic (and frankly, not that good!) As such, I would recommend filling up on a brunch before spending a few hours strolling the Montmartre neighbourhood.
Some of the must-see landmarks and locations in this area of the city include the Sacré-Coeur, La Maison Rose Café, Place Dalida (which was most recently featured in Emily in Paris), and Le Consulat Café. So as not to miss anything in this area, be sure to follow our free and self-guided Montmartre walking tour.
9th arrondissement
After visiting Montmartre, head back down the hill (either take public transportation in the form of the bus or metro) or simply stroll the half hour or so until you reach the 9th arrondissement.
Those walking down to the 9th arrondissement from Montmartre should be sure to pass through rue des Martyrs, a delightful hillyn street that’s full of independent grocers and is steeped in history. Around halfway down the street, you’ll pass by Popelini, which make my favourite cream puffs in Paris.
The northern part of the 9th is often referred to as SoPi (South Pigalle). What was once a gritty area has since been gentrified and is now known for its independent stores, top coffee stores, and regular French brocantes throughout the year.
Galeries lafayette rooftop terrace
Located on Boulevard Haussmann, not far from the Paris Opera house, you’ll find the Galeries Lafayette Flagship Store. This department store is one of Paris’ ‘Grands Magasins’ and sits right beside the equally large store of Printemps.
Galeries Lafayette was founded in the first half of the 20th-century and its flagship store is most famous for its Art Nouveau Cupola, amazing Christmas tree during the festive season, and it’s completely free-to-visit rooftop terrace.
Weather permitting (in adverse weather the terrace is closed), be sure to head to the rooftop terrace in order to enjoy free vistas of the city. From the rooftop, it’s possible to see the Eiffel Tower and Palais Garnier Opera House (among other iconic sites).
Louvre
Last but not least, end your afternoon the right way by heading to the Louvre Museum, which is easily the most famous cultural institution in the city and is also the biggest art museum in the world.
As well as the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Louvre Museum is full of amazing treasures and hidden gems. What started out as a medieval palace during the 12th-century has since been transformed into a Royal Residence, and nowadays, a world-class museum.
Whatever you do, don’t be overwhelmed by the sheer size of the museum and instead try and focus on one or two sections during your visit, so as to truly allow yourself time to soak up the artwork and not rush through things. Purchase your Louvre entrance tickets here in advance.
Dine in a French restaurant
Take yourself out for dinner where there are only two options on the menu (meat or cheese) and the wine is served in baby bottles. Yes, you read that correctly! Pay a visit to Le Refuge des Fondues (17 Rue des Trois Frères, 75018 Paris) for a truly French experience on your final night of this 2 days in Paris itinerary.
The friendly restaurant is always packed with the sound of tourists and locals alike, and while the cheese isn’t the best in town, the atmosphere certainly is!
What’s more is that the door handle leading into the place is even in the shape of a baby bottle! Be sure to book your reservation in advance as this popular spot often has a queue lining up out of the door!
If you have more time
If you get through all of these activities in under two ways, then there are a plethora of fun and interesting activities that you can fill your time with. However, some must-sees are more unique than others and so some of our favourites are listed below…
Arc de Triomphe
One of the most beautiful views to be seen anywhere in the city is from the Arc de Triomphe. After all, while many opt to go up the Eiffel Tower, the iconic monument is obviously missing from all of your Paris shots when you ascend it.
The best time to go up the Arc de Triomphe is just before sunset so that you can enjoy the transition from day to night in the City of Light. Purchase your skip-the-line Arc de Triomphe tickets here in advance.
2nd Arrondissement
I may be biased in saying that the 2nd arrondissement is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Paris because I used to live there, but it truly is! Located just to the North of the River Seine (which is known as the ‘Rive Droite’ right bank), this is the smallest district in Paris.
Particular highlights of the 2e include the largely pedestrianised rue Montorgueil (famed for its foodie and produce shopping), several covered passages (perfect for exploring during a rainy day), and Grand Rex (a historic cinema with an illustrious past).
Where to stay in Paris
Mandarin Oriental: Located along rue Saint-Honoré, which is famous for its many shops, this five-star luxurious accommodation is home to highlights like a marble lobby and beautiful courtyard. Check availability and rates here!
Shangri-La: If you’re looking to seriously splurge on a romantic stay during your time in the city, then this hotel faces the Eiffel Tower, is home to a 2 Michelin star restaurant and spa facilities. Check availability and rates here!
Luxury experience: The Hoxton: For those who are looking for the ultimate luxury experience when staying in Paris, The Hoxton has it all. Charm and several beautiful communal guest spaces including a stunning bar and restaurant, other highlights of the hotel include breakfast options, WiFi, and room service. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-range boutique stay: Hôtel Fabric: As you might gather from its name, Hôtel Fabric is set against the backdrop of a former textile factory and simply oozes charm. Beautiful and with friendly staff, this four-star hotel is welcoming and is located just a fifteen-minute walk away from Le Marais area of the city. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-range: Hotel Petit Paris: Not far from the Luxembourg Gardens and close to the Latin Quarter of the city, this boutique hotel is in the perfect position for exploring Paris on foot. From here, it’s easy to explore top Parisian attractions such as the Paris Pantheon, as well as the Saint Germain des Prés area of the city. Check availability and rates here!
Affordable chic: Hôtel Chopin: Located within one of the covered passages of Paris, in the 9th arrondissement, and close to all the action (the nearby Grands Boulevards are full of bars and restaurants), Hôtel Chopin is a small hotel offering affordable rooms. Amenities include a restaurant and spa on site. Check prices and availability here.
Budget hostel: Generator Hostel: Those in search of an affordable option, Paris has a number of hostels which are fairly conveniently located. This hostel is situated close to the lively area of Canal Saint Martin and offers mixed-sex and female-only dorms. Check prices and availability here.
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Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.