A Guide to 48 Hours in Paris

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Advisor - Caitlyn Cronin
Curated By

Caitlyn Cronin

  • Paris

  • France

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Solo Travel

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Sightseeing

An aerial view of Eiffel Tower with a person holding a glass of wine in front of it.
Curator’s statement

From historical significance to diverse neighborhoods and a vibrant cultural scene, Paris offers a unique and captivating experience for residents and visitors alike. I was originally only scheduled to be in Paris for 24 hours, but with some luck on my side, it turned into 48 hours! Two days doesn’t seem like a lot of time, but it allowed me to accomplish enough to thoroughly enjoy my time in the City of Light!

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Where to stay in Paris

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Things to do in Paris

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  • The Louvre: The Louvre, one of the world's largest and most-visited art museums, is a cultural treasure trove in Paris, housing an extensive collection that includes the must-see Mona Lisa (which is a lot smaller than you would think!)

  • Eiffel Tower: You can admire the Eiffel Tower from the ground or travel up the wrought iron structure to either the mid-level or the top level for breathtaking views of the city.

  • Seine River Cruise: A river cruise at sunset is a great way to see the city’s architecture and admire the many illuminated landmarks.

  • Walk through Le Jardin de Tuileries: Le Jardin des Tuileries, a historic Parisian garden, captivates visitors with its impeccably manicured lawns, iconic statues and serene ponds, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Marvel at this masterpiece of French Gothic architecture that is currently being restored due to a tragic fire in 2019.

  • Musee d’Orsay: The Musée d'Orsay in Paris, housed in a former railway station, showcases an impressive collection of 19th and early 20th-century art, featuring iconic works by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh and Degas.

  • Arc de Triomphe: The Arc de Triomphe, standing proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, is a monumental triumphal arch honoring those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, offering panoramic views of Paris from its summit.

  • Walk the Champs-Elysees: Stroll along the Champs-Élysées and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this Parisian boulevard, lined with luxury shops, cafes and iconic theaters, creating a captivating experience in the heart of the city.

Places to eat & drink in Paris

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Lunch

  • Angelina: No matter the time of year, you HAVE to stop at Angelina for their world famous African Hot Chocolate. There is typically a line to dine in, but it does move relatively quickly. I recommend going at off-peak hours for a late lunch or early dinner.

  • La Maison Rose: Located in Montmartre, La Maison Rose is a picturesque pink cafe that has been a favorite of artists, offering a quaint and romantic setting.

Dinner

  • Le Jules Verne: Situated in the Eiffel Tower, this restaurant offers fine dining and stunning views of the city.

  • Le Train Bleu: Nestled in the Gare de Lyon, this historic restaurant is renowned for its opulent Belle Époque decor and classic French cuisine.

  • Le Grand Véfour: One of the oldest restaurants in Paris, located in the Palais Royal, known for its historical significance and gourmet French dishes.

Dessert

  • Ladurée: If you’re looking for a sweet treat after dinner, I highly recommend Laduree for their pastries and macarons.

  • L'Éclair de Génie: This pastry shop specializes in creative and gourmet éclairs, featuring unique flavors and artistic presentations.

Drinks

  • Le 10ème Ciel: Only open in the summer, Le 10eme Ciel is a rooftop bar located on the 10th floor of the Pullman Tour Eiffel with iconic views of the Eiffel Tower. I recommend staying through sunset until at least 8 p.m., so you can see the tower sparkle for the first five minutes of the hour. This occurs every hour from 8pm to 1am.

  • Little Red Door: This cocktail bar in the Marais is celebrated for its innovative and ever-changing cocktail menu, as well as its stylish and intimate setting.

Advisor - Caitlyn Cronin

Travel Advisor

Caitlyn Cronin

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Christina Gales's guide, Three Days in Paris - Getting the Most Out of a Short Parisian Adventure.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Paris.