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What should I see in Paris in three days?

A trip to Paris is a dream come true for many, and with three days to explore the City of Light, you’ll have ample time to soak in its grandeur, art, culture, and gastronomy. Though there’s so much to see, you can visit the highlights and still discover some hidden gems along the way. Whether you prefer museums, landmarks, or enjoying Parisian neighborhoods, Hôtel de l'Arcade is a perfect starting point for your Parisian adventure.

Day 1: The Must-See Landmarks and Iconic Sights

1. Morning: Louvre Museum and Palais Royal

Why should I start with the Louvre Museum?
On your first day in Paris, begin by visiting the world-famous Louvre Museum. As one of the most visited museums in the world, the Louvre houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Raft of the Medusa. With so much to see, it’s advisable to plan your visit in advance and focus on a few key collections. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the Palais Royal, which is just a short distance from the museum. The Palais Royal offers a peaceful setting, with beautiful gardens, galleries, and arcades to explore.

2. Late Morning: Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité

What makes Notre-Dame a must-see in Paris?
A short walk from the Louvre, you’ll find the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. While the cathedral is still under restoration, the impressive exterior and surrounding square are worth exploring. Take time to stroll around Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris, and admire the charming streets, quaint shops, and cafés that line the island.

3. Lunch: Le Marais District

Why is Le Marais a great place for lunch?
For lunch, head to Le Marais, one of Paris’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Here, you can enjoy a delicious French meal at one of its many cafés or bistros. This area is also famous for its shopping and has a great selection of boutiques selling everything from chic fashion to art. Don’t forget to explore Place des Vosges, one of the oldest and most picturesque squares in Paris.

4. Afternoon: Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro

What makes the Eiffel Tower a must-visit?
In the afternoon, take a trip to the Eiffel Tower, the symbol of Paris. You can either climb to the top or take the elevator for a panoramic view of the city. If you prefer a photo without the crowds, head to Trocadéro Gardens for one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower from across the Seine. The sight is particularly stunning when the tower sparkles at night.

Day 2: Museums, Art, and Iconic Streets

1. Morning: Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie

Why visit the Musée d’Orsay?
Start your second day with a visit to the Musée d’Orsay, located in a former railway station. This museum houses an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and more. Its grand architecture and vast collection will make for an inspiring morning.

Afterward, head to the nearby Musée de l’Orangerie, which features Monet’s Water Lilies as well as works by Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse. It’s a peaceful museum, perfect for a more relaxed experience after the grandeur of the Orsay.

2. Lunch: Montmartre District

Why is Montmartre so special?
For lunch, head to the charming Montmartre district. Once home to many famous artists, this bohemian area exudes artistic charm and is perfect for a laid-back lunch at a traditional bistro. After eating, take time to explore the Place du Tertre, where local artists display their paintings, or climb to the top of Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best views of Paris. The charming streets and artistic ambiance make this a unique part of the city to experience.

3. Afternoon: Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

Why visit the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe?
In the afternoon, head to the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. Known for its luxurious shops and theaters, the avenue offers a great chance to do some window shopping or grab a coffee at a Parisian café. At the end of the avenue, you’ll arrive at the Arc de Triomphe, a monument dedicated to those who fought for France during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. You can climb to the top for a spectacular view of Paris and its grand boulevards.

4. Evening: Seine River Cruise

Why take a Seine River cruise?
End your day with a relaxing Seine River cruise. Several companies offer boat tours that allow you to see Paris’s iconic landmarks from the water. The illuminated Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Pont Neuf are some of the most stunning views from the river, especially at night.

Day 3: Exploring Hidden Gems and Relaxing Spots

1. Morning: Le Marais and the Picasso Museum

Why explore Le Marais and the Picasso Museum?
On your third day, start your morning by revisiting Le Marais. This charming district is filled with hidden gems, from its small independent boutiques to art galleries and cafés. One of the highlights of this area is the Picasso Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of works by the iconic artist Pablo Picasso. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious about Picasso’s legacy, this museum is a must-see.

2. Lunch: Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Why is Saint-Germain-des-Prés great for lunch?
For lunch, head to the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district. Known for its literary cafés and intellectual history, this charming neighborhood is the perfect place for a relaxed meal at one of its iconic bistros. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, lined with bookstores, antique shops, and art galleries.

3. Afternoon: Musée Rodin and Luxembourg Gardens

Why visit the Musée Rodin?
In the afternoon, head to the Musée Rodin, a museum dedicated to the works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin. The museum is located in the beautiful Hôtel Biron, surrounded by tranquil gardens where you can admire some of Rodin’s masterpieces, including The Thinker. The gardens provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

After visiting the museum, take some time to relax in the nearby Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’s most beautiful parks. Here, you can stroll through tree-lined paths, enjoy a coffee at one of the garden’s cafés, or simply relax by the fountains.

4. Evening: Montparnasse and the Eiffel Tower at Night

Why is Montparnasse a great spot for an evening view?
For your final evening in Paris, visit the Montparnasse Tower. This skyscraper offers one of the best views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower clearly visible in the distance. It’s a great way to take in the city’s skyline, especially at sunset.

Alternatively, if you haven’t already, head back to the Eiffel Tower for an evening visit. Watch the tower’s lights sparkle against the Parisian night sky and capture some stunning photos before ending your Paris adventure.

Where to Stay for Your 3-Day Paris Adventure?

Hôtel de l’Arcade: The Ideal Base for Your Paris Experience
For the perfect place to stay during your three-day visit, Hôtel de l’Arcade offers a central location near the Opéra Garnier, Champs-Élysées, and other key landmarks. The hotel’s comfortable accommodations and excellent service will ensure you have a restful stay while being close to all the action in Paris. Whether you’re exploring museums, shopping, or enjoying Parisian cafés, this hotel is ideally located for all your adventures.

Conclusion: Three Days of Unforgettable Paris

With three days in Paris, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s world-famous attractions, as well as some of its more hidden treasures. From art museums and iconic landmarks to charming neighborhoods and peaceful parks, Paris has something for everyone. Staying at Hôtel de l’Arcade ensures that you are at the heart of the city, making it easy to discover all the magic that Paris has to offer in just three days.

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