Itineraries for Your Trip to Paris
1 Day in Paris for First Timers
Unlike most expats, my love affair with France didn’t start with Paris. Instead, it began at a family second home along the French Atlantic Coast, but I eventually found and fell in love with Paris. Whether visiting French friends, zipping in for work meetings, or tagging a leisurely layover onto all my overseas trips, I find myself returning to Paris time and time again.
These short and sweet stays are the perfect way to experience Paris, and no matter how familiar the city starts to become, the newbie magic never wears off. When it comes to making the most of a day in Paris, I’m full of ideas, but this first-timer’s itinerary is the best way to start.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a cruise along the Seine River.
Layers are your friend in Paris—the narrow streets and tall buildings cast plenty of shade, making it feel cooler than it is, especially in spring and fall.
It’s your first time in Paris, and you’re dying to see the Eiffel Tower, so kick off the morning by zipping up to the summit and gazing out over the city’s iconic skyline. Mornings in Paris are made for strolling and selfie-snapping, so once you’ve admired the views, set out on a walking tour. Head north through the Jardins de Trocadero and up to the Arc de Triomphe, then down the tree-lined shopping avenue of Champs-Élysées (don’t miss the grand window displays of the Galeries Lafayette department store) to reach Place de la Concorde.
Take a seat at a traditional French bistro for lunch (for affordable options, head away from Place de la Concorde towards Place Vendome). From here, it’s a short walk to the Louvre Museum, home to world-acclaimed masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Visit with a guide to ensure you don’t miss anything—the museum’s vast collection is chock-full of highlights. Next, cross the Pont des Arts bridge and continue to the atmospheric Latin Quarter, where you can swing by the classic Shakespeare and Company bookstore and sneak a peek at the newly refurbished Notre Dame Cathedral.
The City of Light glitters by night and the most magnificent views are from the water. Hop aboard for a scenic sightseeing cruise along the Seine River and admire illuminated landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and Les Invalides. Indulge in French specialties like foie gras and Champagne as you enjoy dinner on board while floating through the heart of the city. If you want to make a night of it, continue to the Pigalle district for a nightcap at one of the many bars—be sure to pass by the famous Moulin Rouge on the way.
- I’m in Paris for one day. What are the must-see attractions that I should visit?
In just one day, you can walk through central Paris and check off a number of top sights in the process, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Luxembourg Gardens. If you have time to spare, squeeze in a guided tour of the Louvre’s collection highlights—or hop on a Seine river cruise to spot the Eiffel Tower and other attractions along its UNESCO–listed banks.
- What are the top foods and drinks to try in Paris?
Given that Paris is one of the world’s great food cities, it’s hard to narrow down the top food and drink choices. But you can’t go wrong with bakery classics including baguettes and croissants, plus French cheeses, crêpes, and bistro favorites such as steak frites or croque-monsieur sandwiches.
- Which Paris neighborhoods should I visit if I’m only in town for one day?
If you only have one day in Paris, it’s worth staying central—luckily, many of the city’s most popular neighborhoods are within easy walking distance of one other. On the Right Bank, stroll the stylish Le Marais, then explore the sights of Île de la Cité; on the Left Bank, head to the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
- What’s the easiest way for a first timer to get around Paris?
Paris is very easy to explore via public transportation, thanks to its robust and widespread network. The Métro has 16 lines that crisscross the city, as do RER commuter trains and buses. Alternatively, travel on foot or use the city’s Vélib’ bikeshare.