Seeing Paris in just one day might sound impossible. But with the right plan, it can be unforgettable!
This itinerary takes you to the city’s most iconic sights. We’ll start with the classics like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, take you to the city’s most iconic landmarks, and close with a breathtaking sunset view from Tour Montparnasse. Whether you’re here for a quick backpacking trip, a romantic escape, or just want to experience the magic of Paris in one day, this guide will help you make the most of every hour.
CAN YOU REALLY SEE PARIS IN ONE DAY?
You won’t see everything Paris has to offer, but you would also not be able to see everything Paris has to offer if you had a full week. This one-day itinerary is set up to give you a taste of the city’s most iconic experiences.
That said, if you want to linger longer or avoid rushing, it’s perfectly fine to skip one or two stops. This itinerary is more a guide than a rulebook. Feel free to make it your own. Wear comfortable shoes (the full itinerary consists around 5 to 6 km walking) and grab a one-day metro pass to stay mobile throughout your adventure.
THE PERFECT ONE-DAY PARIS ITINERARY
Here we show the full-day overview of the route. You will find every stop and part of the day in more detail below. The route flows naturally across the city, so you’ll spend as little time traveling as possible.
- Includes: Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Seine walk, major landmarks, sunset from Tour Montparnasse
- Skips: Museum visits, in-depth tours, shopping stops
THE PERFECT ONE-DAY PARIS ITINERARY
Here we show the full-day overview of the route…
| # | Activity | Time | Travel Time to Next Stop |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eiffel Tower stroll | 09:00–09:45 | 25 mins by metro to Arc de Triomphe |
| 2 | Arc de Triomphe | 10:15–10:45 | 30 mins by metro to Montmartre |
| 3 | Montmartre + Sacré-Cœur | 11:15–12:15 | Short walk to lunch nearby |
| 4 | Lunch in Montmartre | 12:15–13:15 | 30 mins by metro to Place de la Concorde |
| 5 | Place de la Concorde + Jardin des Tuileries | 13:45–14:15 | 20 mins walk to Louvre courtyard |
| 6 | Louvre Courtyard | 15:00–15:30 | 20 mins walk or metro to Notre-Dame |
| 7 | Notre-Dame | 16:00–17:00 | 30 mins by metro to Montparnasse |
| 8 | Pause or apéro in Montparnasse | 17:30–18:30 | Short walk to dinner or Tour Montparnasse |
| 9 | Dinner before or after sunset | 18:30–21:30 | Head inside the tower for the sunset visit |
| 10 | Sunset at tour Montparnasse | 17:30–22:30 | — |
MORNING – PARIS ICONS TO START YOUR DAY
Start your morning early with some fresh air while soaking in Paris’s most iconic sights. This is the perfect way to kick off your day and get ahead of the crowds at the city’s busiest spots.
You’ll see the Eiffel Tower up close and the impressive Arc de Triomphe. Two landmarks that define Paris’s skyline and rich history.
STOP 1 – EIFFEL TOWER (9:00–9:45)
Begin your walk at the Champ de Mars for a full view of the tower. You won’t go up today though. Save time and enjoy the tower from below. Best morning photo spots include Pont de Bir-Hakeim or Trocadéro.
What you do: Stroll and photograph the Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars and nearby viewpoints.
Tip/Skip: Skip the ascent to save time; the views from below are iconic enough in the morning light.
Travel to next: 25 mins by metro to Arc de Triomphe.
STOP 2 – ARC DE TRIOMPHE (10:15–10:45)
Take some time to explore the Arc de Triomphe, a true symbol of French pride. If you get there early, you can head up to the top for views of the Champs-Élysées and the city’s iconic star-shaped streets.
What you do: Walk around and optionally climb to the top (opens at 10:00).
Tip/Skip: Only climb if you’re there right when it opens to avoid lines.
Travel to next: 30 mins by metro to Montmartre.
LATE MORNING – MONTMARTRE & PARISIAN CHARM
By late morning, take it easy and soak up the unique artistic vibe and history of Montmartre. Sitting atop a hill, this charming neighborhood has inspired generations of artists and offers one of the best views of Paris from the steps of Sacré-Cœur.
STOP 3 – MONTMARTRE + SACRÉ-CŒUR (11:15–12:15)
Wander through winding streets filled with artists and small shops, then climb to the basilica for sweeping views.
What you do: Explore the cobblestones, street art, and the basilica steps.
Tip/Skip: If the climb feels like too much, there are plenty of cozy cafés down below, where you can relax and still enjoy the neighborhood’s atmosphere.
Travel to next: Short walk to lunch nearby.
STOP 4 – LUNCH IN MONTMARTRE (12:15–13:15)
There are plenty of lunch options here. You can take your time with a classic French lunch (keep in mind that this might take some time). Or, if you’re ready to keep moving, grab a quick sandwich to go. Either way, Montmartre has something to fit your pace and mood.
What you do: Eat lunch and rest your legs.
Tip/Skip: Rue des Abbesses has great spots less frequented by tourists—try them for authentic Parisian flavor.
Travel to next: 30 mins by metro to Place de la Concorde.
EARLY AFTERNOON – GRAND AVENUES AND GARDENS
After lunch, make your way back toward the heart of Paris. It’s the perfect spot for an easy, laid-back stroll. Along the way, you’ll pass impressive fountains, historic landmarks, and the timeless charm of the Tuileries Garden on your way to the Louvre.
STOP 5 – PLACE DE LA CONCORDE + WALK THROUGH JARDIN DES TUILERIES (13:45–14:15)
Visit the monumental Place de la Concorde with its famous Luxor Obelisk, then stroll east through the beautiful Tuileries Garden.
What you do: Admire the fountains and greenery as you walk through.
Tip/Skip: Take your time. This garden is a great place to rest and people-watch.
Travel to next: 20 mins (1.5 km) walk to Louvre courtyard.
STOP 6 – LOUVRE COURTYARD (15:00–15:30)
See the famous glass pyramid and palace façade in the courtyard of the Louvre. Skip entering the museum or you will not want to leave for the rest of the day.
What you do: Explore the courtyard and Louvre entrance.
Tip/Skip: Lines to enter can be long; save the museum visit for a dedicated day.
Travel to next: 20 mins (1.5 km) walk or metro to Notre-Dame.
OPTIONAL STOPOVER – WALK ALONG THE SEINE (15:30–16:00)
Instead of taking the metro, enjoy a scenic walk from the Louvre to Notre-Dame along the banks of the Seine. This short route takes you past historic bridges, riverside booksellers (bouquinistes), and classic Parisian views. It’s one of the most atmospheric strolls in the city.
What you do: Walk from the Louvre courtyard toward Pont Neuf or Pont des Arts, then follow the river east toward Île de la Cité.
Tip/Skip: If the weather is nice, skip the metro. The walk only takes 25–30 minutes and offers far more charm than an underground ride.
LATE AFTERNOON – NOTRE-DAME & THE SEINE
Late afternoon is perfect for a peaceful riverside stroll and a visit to one of Paris’s most famous Gothic landmarks. Now open again, Notre-Dame Cathedral invites you to explore both inside and out, with beautiful views of the Seine flowing right beside it.
STOP 7 – NOTRE-DAME CATHEDRAL (16:00–17:00)
Take your time exploring both inside and outside this iconic cathedral. Don’t miss great photo opportunities from nearby places like Square Jean XXIII and Pont de la Tournelle.
What you do: Visit the cathedral’s interior and exterior. Take photos from nearby spots like Square Jean XXIII and Pont de la Tournelle, and enjoy views of the Seine as it winds past the cathedral.
Tip/Skip: If the lines are busy, focus on the stunning exterior and riverside views. There’s plenty to take in without rushing inside.
Travel to next: 30 mins by metro to Montparnasse.
EVENING – SUNSET AND DINNER WITH A VIEW
As the day comes to a close, it’s time to fully relax in Montparnasse for a classic Parisian apéro. Then enjoy dinner with panoramic city views. The evening concludes with a sunset from one of Paris’s highest vantage points.
Take note! Depending on the season, you can have dinner before or after sunset. Check the sunset time. It can be as early as 18:00 in winter or as late as 22:00 in summer. If it’s on the earlier side, you might want to skip the apéro and head straight to Tour Montparnasse to catch the view, then enjoy dinner afterward.
STOP 8 – PAUSE OR APÉRO IN MONTPARNASSE (17:30–18:30)
Rest at historic brasseries like La Rotonde or Le Dôme Café. Enjoy a glass of wine or coffee as you prepare for the final highlight.
What you do: Relax and soak in the atmosphere with a drink.
Tip/Skip: These brasseries offer a genuine Parisian experience and are perfect for people-watching.
Travel to next: Short walk to dinner or Tour Montparnasse.
STOP 9 – DINNER BEFORE OR AFTER SUNSET (18:30–21:30)
Following the apéro enjoy a delicious dinner. Depending on the season, you can choose to eat before or after watching the sunset, making the most of both the meal and the stunning views.
What you do: Enjoy a leisurely meal with classic French cuisine.
Tip/Skip: In summer, eat earlier; in winter, plan for sunset then dinner.
Travel to next: Head inside the tower for the sunset visit.
STOP 10 – SUNSET AT TOUR MONTPARNASSE (17:30–22:30)
Watch the city transform at sunset from the 56th floor, with 360° views including many of the sights you have been to today, like the Eiffel Tower sparkling against the incoming dark.
What you do: Take in the panoramic sunset and city lights.
Tip/Skip: Sunset times are popular, book tickets early to make sure you have a spot.
Travel to next: On to the hotel or discover Paris at night if you still have energy left!
MAKE YOUR ONE DAY IN PARIS UNFORGETTABLE
That was a true full trip in only one day. From winding cobblestone streets to golden sunset skies, this day takes you through the city’s most iconic sights and vibes. The Eiffel Tower, Montmartre’s charm, and a stunning view from above make for memories that stick.
Just remember, it’s not about rushing to see everything, but soaking in the city’s magic. If you want to take it slower or skip a few stops, that’s perfectly fine. And there’s no better way to end than with Paris spread out beneath you, right at your feet.
