8 Must-Do Experiences for your First Trip to Paris

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Three days is definitely not enough to see all of Paris, but if you plan well you can certainly hit some of the highlights in that time. Consider it a teaser trip that will leave you wanting more and planning a follow-up trip to France!

Planning and Preparation

Planning a trip to Paris can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can make the most of your time in the City of Light. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

Research, research, research: Dive into Parisian culture, history, and attractions to get a sense of what you want to see and do. There are countless blogs, travel guides, and YouTube videos that can give you a taste of what to expect.
Create an itinerary: Plan out your days, including travel time, meal breaks, and sightseeing. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure you don’t miss any must-see spots.
Book your accommodations: Choose a hotel or apartment that suits your budget and is located in a safe and convenient area. Central Paris is ideal for first-timers, as it puts you close to many major attractions.
Purchase a Paris Museum Pass: The Paris Museum Pass grants you entry to many of Paris’ top museums and attractions, saving you time and money. It’s a great way to skip the lines and see more during your trip.
Learn some French: While many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable. Simple greetings and polite phrases will be appreciated and can enhance your interactions. Always say “bonjour” when you enter a shop or restaurant as it’s considered rude not to.

Getting Around Paris

Navigating Paris is a breeze thanks to its comprehensive public transportation system. Here are some tips for getting around the city:

Use the Paris Metro: The metro is an efficient and affordable way to get around the city, with 16 lines that cover most areas of Paris. Metro stations are well-marked, and trains run frequently, making it easy to hop from one attraction to another.
Take a bus: Paris has an extensive network of buses that cover areas not served by the metro. Buses are a great way to see the city above ground and can be a more scenic option.
Walk: Paris is a beautiful city to explore on foot, and walking is a great way to discover hidden gems and unexpected sights. The Left Bank, in particular, is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Use a bike: Paris has a bike-sharing system called Vélib, which allows you to rent a bike for a day or by the hour. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in areas with less traffic.
Take a taxi: Ubers and Taxis are widely available, but be aware that they can be more expensive than public transportation. They can be a convenient option, especially late at night or during rush hour.

Food and Drink in Paris

French cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, intricate preparations, and exquisite presentation. Here are some tips for enjoying the culinary delights of Paris:

Try a food tour: Food tours are a great way to sample a variety of French dishes and learn about the city’s culinary culture. You’ll get to taste everything from cheese and wine to pastries and charcuterie.
Visit a market: Paris has many markets, such as the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food. It’s a fantastic way to experience local life and pick up some delicious treats.

Eat at a bistro: Parisian bistros are famous for their cozy atmosphere and classic French dishes like escargots and ratatouille. They’re perfect for a relaxed meal and a glass of wine.
Indulge in pastries: French pastries are a must-try, from croissants to macarons to madeleines. Visit a local patisserie and treat yourself to these delightful sweets.
Drink wine: France is famous for its wine, and Paris has many wine bars and cafes where you can sample a variety of vintages. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, there’s something for every palate.

The 8 Must-Do Experiences for Your First Trip to Paris!

Arc de Triomphe

Do you like stairs? The Arc de Triomphe is for you! I’m kidding. Kind of. But if you want to go to the top, you’re going to climb 284 stairs to get there. The views are worth it though and it’s a great way to get an overview of the city, particularly if you’re unable to get a ticket to go up the Eiffel Tower. Dedicated to the glory of all French armies, the arc is the center point of a chaotic intersection with 12 boulevards radiating from it.

Montmartre and Sacre-Coeur

With its rich artistic history and Sacre-Coeur basilica, Montmartre is worth spending a few hours visiting. Stop by Place du Tertre and have your portrait drawn by a local or purchase a piece of artwork fresh off their easels. Eat your weight in crepes, visit local shops, and if you’re feeling loved up, visit the Wall of I Love You, an art piece that features the phrase “I Love You” in 250 different languages. While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Sacre Coeur, which houses France’s largest mosaic and offers stunning views of the city. Keep in mind the area is hilly – there are 176 stairs to get out of the Abbesses metro that brings you to the area as well as a series of staircases in the area.

Moulin Rouge

Take in a cabaret show in the birthplace of the famous French Cancan, the Moulin Rouge. The colorful show is a mix of singing, dancing, and stunning costumes! Book yourself a ticket that includes a bottle of champagne if you’re feeling extra fancy and be mindful of the dress code when you’re packing for your trip!

Notre Dame Cathedral

I went to Paris in January 2025 and Notre Dame had just reopened after construction from the 2019 fire. When I traveled, free entry tickets to tour inside were being released online at midnight the day before you wanted to visit. They’re in high demand and I didn’t end up scoring a ticket. I walked by, hoping the standby line would be reasonable, but it was longer than I had time since I had a ticket booked for the Louvre just two hours later. A couple I talked to in the airport said they had luck with the standby line about an hour before Notre Dame closed, so that’s something to try if you’re unable to book a ticket.

The Louvre

You could spend entire days wandering the Louvre but a lot of people go simply to see the Mona Lisa. And what you’ve heard is true: it’s a small painting and there’s such a mass of people that you get pushed by it in two seconds. For me, I like to spend time with art to appreciate it, so that was a disappointing experience. However, I spent several hours wandering the museum and getting to enjoy other pieces of art there. If you’re short on time, do a little research to determine what you want to see and figure out where in the Louvre it’s located to maximize your time.

The Eiffel Tower

Did you even go to Paris if you didn’t see the Eiffel Tower? To be fair, you can see it from various points in the city, but I suggest heading to the Tower just before sunset. Will it be crowded? Yes. But if you’re blessed with it good sunset, the photos will be magical! Stick around for the sparkle which starts at dusk and happens on the hour for five minutes with the last sparkle being at 11 pm.

The Catacombs

When I told a friend I was heading to Paris, he said I couldn’t miss the Catacombs. I’ll start with the caveat that this isn’t for you if you’ve got trouble in small spaces. I’m 5’3” and at points, I could touch the ceiling or reach my arms out and touch both walls at the same time. But if you’re cool with that, it’s a fascinating tour! Public health problems tied to Paris cemeteries led officials to transfer remains to an underground site in the late 18th century. The site was the abandoned Tombe-Issoire quarries, which are part of an underground labyrinth under Paris. There’s something oddly beautiful in the way the bones and skulls are arranged and the whole site is a respectful tribute to those laid to rest there.

Just Wander: A Walking Tour

Honestly one of the most fun things to do in Paris in my opinion, is to just wander! With the city’s stunning architecture and endless cafes and shops in the different neighborhoods, there is something interesting around every corner. Hop on the metro and head to an arrondissement far from where you’re staying and spend the day wandering back, stopping into cafes and shops and soaking in the atmosphere.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all that Paris has to offer on your first trip. Bon voyage!

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