PARIS
IN 48 HOURS
Discover Paris in 48 Hours: Experience Iconic Landmarks, Hidden Gems, Exquisite Dining, and Vibrant Culture with Our Expertly Crafted Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Classic Paris
Morning: Eiffel Tower
- Rise and Shine: Begin your Paris adventure with an early visit to the Eiffel Tower, the city’s most iconic landmark. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and unveiled at the 1889 World’s Fair, this iron marvel initially faced skepticism but has since become a globally beloved symbol of French ingenuity and elegance. Arriving early not only helps you avoid the crowds but also offers the chance to see Paris awaken from its slumber.
- Highlight: Take the elevator up to the summit for a stunning panoramic view of the city as it comes to life. Enjoy a moment of peace with a fresh morning coffee at the café on the second level, while the city stretches out beneath you.
Afternoon: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
- Artistic Flair: From the Eiffel Tower, make your way to Montmartre, the hill that has historically been the haunt of artists and bohemians. This village-like neighborhood boasts winding streets, hidden squares, and a vibrant artistic legacy evident in every corner café and studio.
- Highlight: Stroll through the bustling Place du Tertre, where modern-day artists display their work and offer portraits. Make sure to visit the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur. Its white domes shine brightly against the Paris skyline, and the views from its front steps are some of the best in the city—offering a sweeping vista that is especially breathtaking at sunset.
Evening: Louvre Museum
- Cultural Feast: Conclude your day at the Louvre, the vast art museum that once served as a royal palace. This historic edifice became a public museum during the French Revolution and now houses some of the world’s most precious artworks across its endless galleries.
- Highlight: Inside, be sure not to miss iconic pieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the ancient Greek statue, Venus de Milo. After soaking in the art, step out to enjoy a late dinner at one of the nearby Parisian bistros, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures over classic French dishes like coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon.
Day 2: The Heart of Parisian Culture
Morning: Sainte-Chapelle
- Gothic Gem: Kick off your morning at Sainte-Chapelle, a jewel of Gothic architecture nestled within the medieval Palais de la Cité. Constructed in the 1240s on the orders of King Louis IX, this chapel was intended to house precious Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns. Its most remarkable features are the stunning stained-glass windows that soar towards the ceiling, creating a kaleidoscope of light.
- Highlight: The 1,113 stained-glass panels that encase the upper chapel tell the biblical story from Genesis to the Resurrection in vibrant colors. On sunny mornings, these windows create an almost heavenly effect, bathing the interior in a multicolored glow that brings the ancient narratives to life.
Afternoon: Latin Quarter
- Intellectual Hub: After the mesmerizing experience at Sainte-Chapelle, wander into the heart of the Latin Quarter. This district pulsates with the energy of academic life, spurred by the presence of the historic Sorbonne University. The area is teeming with bookshops, quaint cafes, and lively bistros, reflecting its status as a cultural and intellectual epicenter for centuries.
- Highlight: Explore the Panthéon, where France’s great minds such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie are entombed. Afterwards, meander through the Luxembourg Gardens, an oasis of tranquility with beautifully manicured lawns, statues, and fountains—ideal for a peaceful stroll or a restful pause on a busy day.
Evening: Seine River Cruise
- Paris at Night: Conclude your day with an enchanting dinner cruise along the Seine River. As twilight descends, Paris transforms, with its monuments and bridges spectacularly lit against the night sky, offering a dramatic backdrop to your evening.
- Highlight: Glide past the illuminated Sainte-Chapelle, witness the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the distance, and observe the grandeur of the Louvre from this unique vantage point on the water. The dinner cruise combines gourmet French cuisine with unforgettable views, providing a perfect culmination to your exploration of Parisian culture and history. Enjoy the elegant atmosphere and reflect on the city’s enduring charm as you dine.
