Only have 48 hours in Paris, France? No problem! With the help of this guide and a lot of espresso (😉), you can soak up the city’s highlights and still have time for a perfectly flaky croissant. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, a quick trip to the City of Light can be just as magical. Whether this is your first time in Paris, or a return visit, there’s something in this guide for everyone. Even a quick stint in Paris will leave a lasting impression and you’ll be planning your next trip to this storybook city in no time!
And, if you’re stopping in Paris before heading south, don’t miss my guide to the French Riviera.
Paris Playlist
Where to Stay
Paris is a rather large city compared to others in Europe. Thanks to the highly efficient Paris Métro system, you can stay in different arrondissements and still be able to access the main sights pretty easily. If you’re looking to be near the main museums, like the Louvre, I recommend Hotel France Louvre. This hotel is right on Rue de Rivoli and is right across the street from the Louvre.
For a more laid back feel outside of the main tourist spots, try the Le 20 Prieuré Hôtel. I stayed at this hotel in July a few years ago and loved being able to escape the business and go back to my hotel in what felt like a more local area. This hotel is conveniently located right next to a Paris Métro stop. There’s also a fantastic bakery at the end of the block!
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, try the Westin or the Mandarin Oriental.
Museums
The museums in Paris completely captured my heart during my first visit to Paris and I’m always dreaming of my next return. As a history and art lover, it doesn’t get much better than Paris. From the iconic (and huge!) Louvre museum to the Musee Rodin, there is SO much to see. If you truly only have 48 hours, I would pick one or two to focus on while adding other sights into the mix.
The Louvre
If you have never been to this museum, I would make this your top priority. Beware that the summer months will likely be incredibly busy with the exception of Bastille Day on July 14th. I practically had this museum to myself on Bastille Day because all of the tourists and locals had either gone south or were out doing other celebratory events. Spring break at this museum is also very busy.
Must Sees in the Louvre: Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, Liberty Leading the People, Great Sphinx of Tanis, The Coronation of Napoleon.
Musee d’Orsay
This is another one of my all-time favorites! This museum is inside of what used to be the Beaux-Arts railway station, so its interior is very unique. This museum is home to one of the world’s best collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and more. Even if you’re not an art buff, the building itself, and the view from the clock windows, is worth the visit.
Musee Rodin
Tucked away in a stunning and peaceful garden near Invalides, the Musée Rodin is a hidden gem in the heart of Paris. Set inside a charming 18th-century mansion, this museum showcases the works of Auguste Rodin, including The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. Stroll through the rose-filled gardens, where many of his works are displayed outdoors. I love this a quiet, art-filled escape from the city buzz.
Musée National Picasso-Paris
Located in the Marais district, this museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts. The Museé Picasso Paris hosts the largest public collection of Pablo Picasso’s works, which covers over 5,000 pieces. From early sketches to masterpieces, you will see them all. This museum also features work from artists that inspired Picasso and others that he admired. Walk through Picasso’s life and career as you explore this museum.
Musée de l’Orangerie
Located in the Tuileries Garden outside of the Louvre, this museum is known for its large and rather iconic display of Monet’s Water Lillies. Beyond Monet, you’ll find works by Cézanne, Matisse, Renoir, and Picasso. This one is perfect for a quiet art escape right in the heart of Paris.
If I were to pick two museums during my 48 hours in Paris, I would pick the Louvre and another smaller museum.
Eiffel Tower
You can’t go to Paris and not see the Eiffel Tower! See this iconic landmark during the day and absolutely do not miss it at night! The tower is magical when it’s lit up at night. Since you’ll be tight on time, book a river cruise to enjoy the Eiffel Tower and other sights from the water.
Montmartre
Perched on a hill in northern Paris, Montmartre has a different bohemian spirit that’s hard to resist. Once home to artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec, this charming neighborhood blends cobblestone streets, quirky cafés, and sweeping panoramic views of the city. I absolutely love spending time in Montmartre and I'm sure you will too. If you're looking to experience a different vibe, great shopping, and unreal views, spend an afternoon in this neighborhood. Don't miss the Sacré-Cœur Basilica which sits at the very top of the hill. You will also find the iconic Moulin Rouge in this fun neighborhood.
Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame is one of those Paris landmarks that just takes your breath away. Even with the ongoing restoration, the cathedral’s gothic beauty and history still shine. Right in the heart of the city on Île de la Cité, it's been standing tall for centuries. It's kind of mind blowing when you look at it. Swing by to admire the exterior, take in the atmosphere, and feel the timeless magic of one of Paris’s most iconic spots! Visiting this sight will not take long.
Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle is a historic gem in the heart of Paris. I didn't visit this church on my first few visits to Paris, but once I experienced it, I was kicking myself that I didn't do it sooner! It's a bit hidden, but once you step inside, it immediately transports you to the medieval times. This church opened in 1248 and is a UNESCO Heritage Site. I have yet to experience anything like it. The sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows makes the whole place glow with color. This is a fantastic spot to take in some historic Parisian beauty, away from the busy Paris crowds.
Cooking Class/Wine Tasting
If you've read a lot of my guides, you probably have caught on to the fact that I love to throw a cooking class or wine tasting experience into the mix. I find that these food-centric experiences are a great way to really dive into the culture and history of a place while making connections with locals and travelers alike. Wine tastings allow you to learn a lot about the surrounding regions and cooking classes typically teach us about why the people of a certain city or area had to adapt to certain foods and recipes.
Here are some of my favorites in Paris:
Learn to Make Macaron with a Chef
Croissant Small Group Baking Class
@lauravogelle Must sees in Paris, France ✨🇫🇷 One of my favorite cities in the world. We’re covering the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée Rodin, Montmartre, Versailles, Seine River Cruise, Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, & more! Get all of the info on the blog. #vogelle #paris #paristravel #paristravelguide #whattoseeinparis #parisfrance #louvremuseum #versailles #saintechapelle #notredame ♬ original sound - Laura Vogel
How to Spend 48 Hours in Paris
Paris is one of my favorite cities in the world, and I find myself wanting to go back time and time again. If I were spending 48 hours in Paris, I would dedicate one day to museums, and one day to another neighborhood like Montmartre and a cooking class. Or, I would spend one day at Versailles and the other in museums and seeing the major sites.
Whatever combination you try, you will fall in love with this historically rich and romantic city. Let me know your favorite activities in Paris in the comments!
