Visiting Paris for the first time and only have one full day? Don't worry—you can still have an unforgettable experience. This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your 24 hours without rushing or missing the essentials.
From iconic landmarks and peaceful riverside walks to stylish cafés and sweeping city views, here's how to enjoy Paris the smart way.
8:00 AM – Eiffel Tower: Start With the Icon
Why go early:
The Eiffel Tower is beautiful any time, but mornings are quieter and perfect for photos. Start your day at Trocadéro Square, just across the river, where you'll get the classic full view of the tower.
What to know:
• Ticket to the summit with elevator: approx. $30
• Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 10:45 PM
• Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Insider tip: Buy your ticket in advance and use the East Pillar entrance to skip lines.
How to get there:
Metro Line 6 to Trocadéro or Bir-Hakeim. A single ride is about $2.30, or grab a day pass for around $9.20.
9:30 AM – Walk Along the Seine to Pont Alexandre III
Why it's worth it:
Take a relaxed 25-minute riverside walk from the Eiffel Tower to Pont Alexandre III, Paris's most ornate bridge. Decorated with golden winged horses and elegant streetlamps, it's not just a bridge—it's a photo shoot location.
Time needed: 20–30 minutes
10:30 AM – Louvre Museum: Masterpieces in a Morning
Why visit:
Home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and thousands of historic works, the Louvre is the world's most visited museum. If time is limited, focus on the highlights using the museum's printed guide or audio app.
Visitor info:
• Adult entry: approx. $19
• Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Recommended visit time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Tip: Use the underground entrance through the shopping area to avoid queues.
12:30 PM – Lunch in the Historic Le Marais
Why here:
Le Marais is a charming district filled with stone buildings, galleries, and local eateries. It's central, walkable, and full of character.
Food options:
• Small bistros offering dishes like ratatouille, vegetable quiche, or roasted chicken
• Average meal price: $20–25
• Look for set menus ("formule déjeuner") to get the best value
Take a short stroll afterward along Rue des Francs Bourgeois or Place des Vosges for boutique browsing or a quick pastry.
2:00 PM – Galeries Lafayette: Shopping & Rooftop Views
Why go:
This grand department store is known for its luxury brands and beautiful glass dome, but also has a free rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Paris skyline—including the Eiffel Tower.
Details:
• Open 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Budget-friendly local souvenirs on lower levels
• VAT refunds are available for foreign visitors with a minimum spend
• Don't miss the gourmet food section for edible souvenirs like chocolate or jam
3:30 PM – Coffee & Pastry Break
It's time to slow down and enjoy the Parisian café life.
Top options:
• Le Nemours or Café Kitsuné, quiet cafés near Palais Royal for a café crème and fruit tart
• Du Pain et des Idées, known for exceptional buttery croissants and traditional "escargot" pastries
Estimated cost: $4–6 for coffee, $5–7 for pastry
Time needed: 30–45 minutes to relax and recharge
4:30 PM – Montmartre: Art, History & Cobblestone Streets
How to get there:
Take Metro Line 12 to Abbesses. Then either walk up the picturesque steps or take the funicular (same as metro fare).
Why Montmartre:
This hilltop neighborhood is full of Parisian charm. Cobblestone alleys, ivy-covered buildings, and artists painting in the open air make it feel like stepping into a storybook.
Must-see spots:
• Place du Tertre: where local artists set up easels and paint portraits
• Montmartre Museum: tells the story of the area's bohemian past and features a peaceful garden (entry approx. $12)
• Rue de l'Abreuvoir and La Maison Rose: iconic spots for photos and walking
Spend 1.5 to 2 hours enjoying the area slowly—there's no rush here.
6:30 PM – Dinner at a Local-Friendly Bistro
Where to eat:
Stay in Montmartre or head back toward the Opera district for a calm, family-friendly dining experience.
Typical dishes to try:
• Roasted seasonal vegetables
• Gratin-style potato dishes
• Fresh fish with lemon and herbs
Price range: Around $20–30 per person for a main course and a drink.
8:00 PM – Optional: Evening Walk Along the Seine
Wrap up your day with a peaceful walk by the water. Starting near Pont Neuf or the Louvre area, you can enjoy the city lights as the sun sets.
Why it's great:
The Eiffel Tower sparkles on the hour after dusk, and the calm streets around the Seine are perfect for your last memories of the day.
Transport Tips
• Day pass (Mobilis): ~$9.20 covers unlimited metro and bus travel within central Paris
• Best apps: Citymapper and Bonjour RATP help with route planning
• Peak hours to avoid: 8:00–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM
Paris can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be. With this route, you'll get a real feel for the city's rhythm, style, and beauty—all in one day. From sunrise at the Eiffel Tower to sunset over Montmartre rooftops, this is the Paris that locals love and first-timers remember.
Have you tried a similar day in Paris—or are you planning your own version now? Share your ideal Paris stops or travel tips—we'd love to hear how you'd spend your perfect day in the City of Light!
