48 Hours in Paris: 12 Unmissable Experiences for a Short Trip

Paris in 48 hours is not nearly enough to see the beautiful city of lights, but we’ll see what we can do. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the art-filled halls of the Louvre Museum, we'll embark on an abridged journey through the heart of French culture, history, and cuisine.

If you’re only in the city for 48 hours, it could be possible you might need a place to store your bags to get around the city easily. So if you’re looking for convenient and reliable luggage storage solutions in Paris, look no further than Nannybag. Nannybag is a luggage storage service with drop-off points throughout the city to ensure you won’t have to reroute as you complete your 48 hours in Paris itinerary!

Eiffel Tower

Starting us off is the Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris and a marvel of engineering, which stands tall and proud on the Champ de Mars. Because if you're wondering how to spend 48 hours in Paris, this should be on your list. Day or night, the Eiffel Tower casts a mesmerizing glow over the city, making it a must-visit destination for romantics, history enthusiasts, and photographers alike.

Nearest Metro Stop: Bir-Hakeim (Line 6) or Trocadéro (Lines 6 and 9)

Price: Tickets start at 11,30 to access the tower

Louvre Museum

Housing one of the world's most extensive art collections, the Louvre Museum is a cultural treasure trove in the heart of Paris. This once-grand palace-turned-museum is a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage. It's one of these Paris experiences you shouldn't miss out on.

Once you’re in the Louvre, you can see the iconic Mona Lisa up close. Remember that the museum is vast, so pick and choose your exhibits beforehand because you won’t be able to see them all when you visit Paris in 2 days.

Nearest Metro Stop: Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7)

Price: 17,00 for adults

Seine River Cruise

Cruising along the serene waters of the Seine River provides a magical perspective of Paris. A cruise is a perfect way to understand the landscape and learn more about the city's history. We suggest booking the cruise around sunset to catch the city's beautiful gradient skies.

If you want to combine dinner and a cruise, you could also choose to do that— but remember. It’s one of those things to book ahead in Paris.

Nearest Metro Stop: Depends on the cruise chosen. Eiffel Tower (as mentioned before), Port de la Bourdonnais, or Pont Neuf (Line 7)

You can book your cruise here.

Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary, which has long been a must-see symbol of French Gothic grandeur. Despite its partial restoration, the cathedral's awe-inspiring facade and intricate stained glass windows remain impressive. You won’t be able to go in, but you’ll be able to witness its renovation efforts— a very important part of its history.

Nearest Metro Stop: Cité (Line 4) or Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame (Lines 4 and 10)

Montmartre

This charming hilltop neighborhood is where artists like Picasso and Van Gogh once roamed, seeking inspiration in its quaint streets and picturesque squares. While in Montmartre, visit the Sacre Cœur Basilica perched atop the hill. Here you’ll see a stunning basilica and amazing panoramic city views. This is a great place to bring snacks or pastries and enjoy them on the stairs as the locals do.

Nearest Metro Stop: Anvers (Line 2) or Abbesses (Line 12)

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

The grand Champs-Élysées avenue, lined with elegant shops and cafes, leads to the Arc de Triomphe. Window shop at the designer stores and grab a coffee before climbing to the terrace at the arc and witnessing the city from a different point of view.

Nearest Metro Stop: Charles de Gaulle - Étoile (Lines 1, 2, and 6)

Price: 13,00 for adults to see the view from the arc

Sainte Chapelle

Tucked away on the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle is a hidden gem renowned for its exquisite stained glass windows. The impressive stained glass showcases biblical and medieval scenes in an ethereal kaleidoscope of colors. A destination fit for those into history, religion, or just cool gothic architecture.

Nearest Metro Stop: Cité (Line 4) or Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame (Lines 4 and 10)

Price: Tickets 11,50 for adults

Latin Quarter

This lively hub, once a place for intellectuals to sip coffee and talk about the world's complexities, is now a premier destination for travelers. Its cobbled streets have bookshops, cafes, and historical institutions like the Sorbonne. Check out the famous bookstore Shakespeare & Company, and if you’re looking for crepes, head to Rue Mouffetard for some of the best in town.

Nearest Metro Stop: Cluny - La Sorbonne (Line 10) or Odéon (Lines 4 and 10)

Parisian Bistro

French food is a must during your stay in the city, even for the pickiest of eaters. Luckily, Paris has French eateries scattered all over the city, so you’re sure to find something you like. From escargot to coq au vin, the cuisine celebrates French culinary mastery.

Many eateries will have the classics on their menu and their specials listed outside. No trip to Paris is complete without enjoying a meal at a Parisian bistro— an essential part of embracing the city's gastronomic heritage.

Musee d’Orsay

Housed in a beautifully repurposed railway station, the Musée d'Orsay houses an exceptional Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art collection. Here, works by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Degas come to life, showcasing the transformative period of art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This museum is often seen as an alternative to the Louvre, but we recommend checking both out if the time permits.

Nearest Metro Stop: Solférino (Line 12) or Musée d'Orsay (RER C)

Price: 16,00 for adults, 13 for children at the door

Jardin de Tuileries

Nestled between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries offers tranquility amidst the bustle. Unless you’re there during their summer and winter fairs, it’s a wonderland of fun attractions and classic arcade games.

Besides that, the carefully landscaped gardens are adorned with sculptures and fountains, providing a peaceful respite for strolls or simply lounging by the ponds.

Nearest Metro Stop: Tuileries (Line 1)

Montparnasse Tower

A visit to Montparnasse Tower is a must for a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris. This tower is an alternative to the Eiffel Tower and has refreshingly unique views of the Parisian skyline. If we’re being honest, we prefer this view over the tower simply because you can see the tower from here! If you have an eligible Navigo pass, you can get 25% off your visit to the tower.

Nearest Metro Stop: Montparnasse - Bienvenüe (Lines 4, 6, 12, and 13)

Price: 21,00 for adults, 16,00 for Students and Children 12-17