48 Hours In Paris Is Just Enough Time to Explore Highlights of This Historical City Of Lights
By Elaine & Scott Harris
If you only have 48 hours in Paris, you’ll have to be strategic about how you spend your time. Here’s the perfect itinerary to make the most of your short stay and enjoy this iconic city.
Book your stay at Hotel Derby Eiffel, blocks from the Iconic Paris Landmark Eiffel Tower. Hotel Derby Eiffel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay in Paris, with easy access to major attractions and public transportation. When visiting, there are several options to get up to the top, including taking the stairs or an elevator. It was built in 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World’s Fair and designed by Gustave Eiffel and his team of engineers. A fun fact, the tower sways slightly in the wind but is designed to withstand strong winds and has never been damaged by the wind! Be sure to take in the stunning city views from the top.
Cruise the Seine River from the docks near the Eiffel Tower and enjoy the charming architecture and scenery of the city. The Seine River runs right through the heart of Paris; take in the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and other famous Parisian landmarks from the comfort of a boat. Overall, a Seine River cruise is a great way to experience the beauty of Paris from a unique perspective.
One cannot visit this iconic city without touring the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous art and artifacts. You could spend hours here, so prioritize which exhibits you want to see most. The Louvre Museum has existed since it opened to the public on August 10, 1793, during the French Revolution. Of course, one of the Louvre’s most famous works of art is the Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century. Also, take time to see the Venus de Milo, an ancient Greek statue of the goddess Aphrodite that dates to around 100 BC.
Pro Tip: Book a private tour that takes you straight to the Mona Lisa to begin your visit.
Pro Tip: When at the Louvre, have lunch at Café Marly, a popular café and restaurant in the courtyard. It offers an elegant setting with a stunning view of the Louvre Pyramid and the Tuileries Gardens. The café is named after the Marly horses that once adorned the Champs-Élysées in Paris. It serves a variety of French cuisine, including classic dishes like escargots, foie gras, and steak frites, as well as salads, sandwiches, desserts, and a great wine list.
Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in the world. While the cathedral is closed for renovations, you can still admire its exterior and visit the nearby Sainte-Chapelle, known for its stunning stained-glass windows. Head to the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world, to shop or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes.
Paris is home to many exquisite restaurants. For a Michelin Star experience, make a reservation at Restaurant “Grand Coeur,” a restaurant in the artsy Montmartre neighborhood. The menu features traditional French cuisine focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. There is a wide variety of dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, as well as a selection of desserts and a well-curated wine list to please your gastronomic cravings. Founded by Argentinian chef Mauro Colagreco in 2019. Le Grandcoeur quickly gained great fame and was awarded a Michelin star in January 2020, only a few months after its opening.
Take in dinner and a show at the historic Moulin Rouge, known for its can-can dance performances and extravagant shows. It was opened on October 6, 1889, during the Belle Époque, a period of artistic and cultural flourishing in France. You can just feel history from the minute you walk through the doors.
This exciting itinerary will allow you to see many of the top sights in Paris, but keep in mind that there is always more to explore in this beautiful city. Take breaks, enjoy the local cuisine and culture along the way, and make reservations!