Hey there fellow travelers and welcome to my post where we will cover 10 ways to spend one day in Paris. Now, we all know the joys that travel can bring, from visiting far off places, experiencing different cultures and of course, all the new foods. But there is also a downside, – that dreaded day to ‘waste’ in a city whilst waiting for a midnight flight.
So if you are like me (as I live in Australia, all outgoing flights seems to leave late at night), there has been many a day where you need to find something to do that is enjoyable, but doesn’t take too much time – or cost too much money. So if you have a day to kill in Paris, here are 10 things you can do to pass the time in an enjoyable way.
Let’s check them out…
- Stroll Along the Seine River
- Discover Art at the Louvre Museum
- Visit the Palace of Versailles
- Climb the Eiffel Tower
- Explore the Charming Streets of Montmartre
- Taste Parisian Pastries and Chocolate
- Unwind in the Luxembourg Gardens
- Shop Along the Champs-Élysées
- Experience the Nightlife in Paris
- Embrace Paris’s Café Culture
How To Spend One Day In Paris
Paris, the City of Lights, has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. With its charming streets, world-class museums, luxury fashion brands and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
So to help you out, here are 10 unforgettable ways to spend a day in Paris, ensuring that your visit to this enchanting city is nothing short of magical.
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1. Stroll Along the Seine River
Begin your day by taking a leisurely stroll along the Seine River, the lifeblood of Paris. The riverbanks are lined with beautiful bridges, historic buildings and iconic landmarks and to fully appreciate the picturesque views, start at the Île de la Cité, home to the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, and walk westward towards the Eiffel Tower.
Along the way, you can stop at the many bookstalls and souvenir shops known as “bouquinistes” that line the riverbanks, selling everything from vintage postcards to antique books. For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided walking tour or renting a bicycle to explore the riverside at your own pace.
If you prefer a more leisurely approach, hop on a Bateaux Mouches river cruise. These boats offer guided tours along the Seine, providing a unique perspective on the city’s most famous landmarks including the Louvre Museum, the Orsay Museum and the Eiffel Tower. A river cruise is an excellent way to admire Paris’s architectural beauty while enjoying a glass of wine or a delicious meal on board as well.
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2. Discover Art at the Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum, home to the iconic Mona Lisa and thousands of other priceless works of art, is a must-visit destination for any trip to Paris (and one of my most favorite places in the world). The museum houses an extensive collection of artwork and artifacts spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. As the largest museum in the world, it’s impossible to explore every exhibit in a single day, so we recommend focusing on a few key areas that interest you the most.
Start with the Denon Wing, which contains famous works such as the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Venus de Milo. Then, make your way to the Richelieu Wing to admire the stunning Napoleon III Apartments and a vast collection of decorative arts and if you’re interested in Egyptian antiquities, then add the Sully Wing as well.
To make the most of your time at the Louvre, consider joining a guided tour or using an audio guide to learn about the history and significance of each piece. Additionally, the museum offers late-night openings on Wednesdays and Fridays, allowing you to beat the crowds and explore the exhibits at a more leisurely pace.
Tickets to the Louvre are sold on a staggered time basis with prices starting at around 17,00 € for a single adult.
3. Visit the Palace of Versailles
Take a trip back in time to the opulence and grandeur of the Palace of Versailles. Located just outside Paris and once the residence of French royalty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is easily accessible by train or guided tour. The palace and its surrounding gardens are a true testament to the extravagance of the French monarchy.
Begin your visit by exploring the State Apartments which include the stunning Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Chamber and the Queen’s Chamber. The palace also houses an impressive collection of artwork and historical artifacts too.
Afterward, venture outside to the expansive gardens designed by the famous landscape architect André Le Nôtre. They feature immaculate lawns, elaborate fountains and a series of charming groves. And don’t miss the opportunity to visit Marie-Antoinette’s estate, where you can explore the Petit Trianon, the Queen’s Hamlet and the idyllic English-style gardens.
To make the most of your visit to Versailles, consider renting a bicycle or a golf cart to explore the vast grounds at your leisure. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the palace’s history and significance.
Tickets to see the whole estate cost around 28,50 € with cheaper options available for access to certain sections only
4. Climb the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic structures in the world. Standing at an impressive 324 meters tall, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Visitors have the option to climb the tower’s 674 steps to the second floor or take the elevator to the top. Either way, the view from the top is well worth the effort so make sure to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable vistas of Paris.
For a unique experience, consider booking a table at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on the second floor with its elegant atmosphere and exquisite French cuisine.
Tickets to the Summit start at around €35
5. Explore the Charming Streets of Montmartre
Montmartre, a hilltop neighborhood in the 18th arrondissement, is known for its bohemian atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant artistic history. The area was once home to famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who found inspiration in the neighborhood’s unique charm.
Begin your exploration at the foot of the hill and wander through the bustling Place du Tertre, where local artists gather to paint and sell their artwork then make your way to the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offers sweeping views of the city.
For a taste of local culture, visit the Montmartre Museum which showcases the neighborhood’s artistic history, or take a guided walking tour to learn about the area’s fascinating past. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of the French Cancan, where you can catch a lively cabaret show.
6. Taste Parisian Pastries and Chocolate
Now for the sweet tooths amongst you, Paris is a city renowned for its patisseries, where you can find a wide array of mouth-watering treats including macarons, éclairs, tarts and of course, croissants.
Some notable patisseries to visit include:
- Laduré – known for its delicious macarons
- Pierre Hermé – famous for its inventive flavor combinations
- Angelina – which offers a delectable Mont-Blanc pastry and a rich hot chocolate that is not to be missed.
For chocolate lovers, a visit to a Parisian chocolatier is a must. Explore the city’s many chocolate shops, such as Patrick Roger, La Maison du Chocolat or Alain Ducasse’s Le Chocolat to taste a variety of artisanal chocolates, truffles and pralines.
Consider joining a guided pastry or chocolate tour to learn about the history and techniques behind these delightful treats while sampling some of the city’s best offerings as well.
7. Unwind in the Luxembourg Gardens
Escape the bustling city streets by spending a relaxing afternoon in the Luxembourg Gardens, a beautiful 60-acre park located in the heart of Paris’s Left Bank. These picturesque gardens, commissioned by Marie de’ Medici in the 17th century, feature meticulously landscaped lawns, colorful flowerbed and tree-lined promenades.
The park is also home to several fountains and statues, including the iconic Medici Fountain, which serves as a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The Luxembourg Gardens also house the historic Luxembourg Palace, which now serves as the seat of the French Senate.
Families can take advantage of the park’s many activities, such as puppet shows, pony rides and the opportunity to sail model boats on the picturesque Grand Basin or you can discover hidden alcoves and quiet corners perfect for a peaceful picnic as well.
8. Shop Along the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world, offers a premier shopping experience for visitors to Paris. Stretching for nearly two kilometers, this bustling thoroughfare is lined with a variety of high-end boutiques, international fashion houses and luxury brands.
Browse the shops for the latest fashion trends or visit iconic stores such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Ladurée. For a more comprehensive shopping experience, you can then stop by the Galeries Lafayette or Printemps, two of Paris’s most renowned department stores.
If you prefer a more unique shopping experience, explore the many side streets branching off the Champs-Élysées, where you can find an array of charming boutiques, antique shops and art galleries. Don’t forget to take a break at one of the many chic cafés lining the avenue where you can enjoy a leisurely coffee while watching the world go by.
9. Experience the Nightlife in Paris
Should you have a late flight. Paris’s vibrant nightlife scene offers something for everyone, whether you prefer sipping cocktails at an elegant bar or dancing the night away at a trendy nightclub. Or, for a quintessential Parisian experience, attend a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge, Lido or Crazy Horse where you can enjoy a dazzling display of dance, music and theater.
If you’re looking for something more low-key, explore the city’s many bars and lounges, such as the historic Harry’s New York Bar or the stylish Experimental Cocktail Club. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in a wine tasting or visit one of Paris’s many wine bars, like Le Baron Rouge or La Cave du Senate to sample a variety of French wines.
10. Embrace Paris’s Café Culture
And finally, should you have already seen all of the above, or really don’t want to do to much, then you can experience the timeless charm of Paris’s café culture by spending an afternoon at one of the city’s many iconic cafés. These establishments, which have been gathering places for artists, writers and intellectuals throughout history, provide the perfect opportunity to slow down and savor the Parisian way of life.
Some notable cafés to visit include Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots and Le Procope, all of which have rich histories and played host to prominent cultural figures. Grab a seat on the terrace, order a café au lait or a glass of wine and indulge in some people-watching as you soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
For a more modern take on the café experience, visit one of Paris’s specialty coffee shops such as Coutume Café or Ten Belles, where you can enjoy expertly crafted espresso drinks in a cozy setting.
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Conclusion
There you have it, how to spend a day in Paris. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences here.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
