A perfect long-weekend in Paris

Paris is the most visited city in the world – and with good reason. The French capital is brimming with world-class attractions and has a unique style and charm that is hard to match.

There are over 3800 historic monuments in Paris, and four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It would take a lifetime to discover all these incredible locations but if all you’ve got is a weekend never fear. Most of the major Parisian draws are located in the relatively small city centre, and the ones that aren’t are easy to reach on public transport.

Paris at sunset, France by Oh Paris

We’ve drawn up a rough itinerary to help you make the most of your long weekend in Paris.

Choosing your accommodation

Paris has a great public transport system – and a fantastic metro network so navigating the city couldn’t be easier. That said, you’ll still want to make the most of your trip by choosing a location that puts you right in the heart of the action. There is no shortage of Places to stay in and around central Paris that will put you near some of best attractions and transport links so you shouldn’t have any problem finding convenient accommodation.

Friday: Settling in and enjoying some culture

Afternoon:

After checking in you’ll want to relax into your weekend so take it easy on your first day. A gentle stroll down the Champs-Elysees is the perfect start. Streets don’t get much more famous than this so take your time and mix up a bit of shopping with relaxing in the many grassy areas along the way. Make for the Arc de Triumph and if you feel up to it, ascend the memorial for some great views across the city.

Evening:

The Parisian arts scene is one of the finest in the world and on your first night you should dive in with a trip to the Paris Opera. There are plenty of great restaurants nearby where you can eat either before or after your show but as soon as you’ve finished, head to the nearby Harry’s Bar for cocktails.

Champs-Elysees, Paris, France by Serge Melki

Saturday: Seeing the big sights

Morning:

Start off by heading to the Eiffel Tower – the earlier the better. This iconic landmark draws big visitor numbers and has the queues to prove it. Fit travellers can beat the pack by choosing the much less popular stairs route up one of the structure’s legs – although to get to the very top you’ll still have to take a lift. The view from the top is spectacular so remember your camera. Once you’ve built up an appetite, head to the nearby Café de L’Alma where you can enjoy a delicious Parisian lunch in elegant surroundings.

Afternoon:

The Palace of Versailles and its gardens represent one of the most beautifully conceived structures in the world and are well worth making the short trip from Paris to see. Head to either the Montparnasse or Saint Lazare stations to get your train and be prepared to see unparalleled elegance and sumptuous splendour.

Evening:

When you’re back in Paris make for the Montmartre districts, one of the more bohemian locations in the city and home to the famous Moulin Rouge. This area up on the hill is also home to the famous Sacre Cour church – which offers splendid views across Paris. When the light show at the Eifel Tower starts to sparkle you’ll understand why this is such a magical city.

Palace of Versailles park, Paris, France by Leo-setä

Sunday: Art and history

Morning:

First thing to do is to head to the most famous of the many museums and galleries that grace the streets of Paris. The Louvre is home to a remarkable collection of works which includes the Mona Lisa and Venus di Milo. Join the crowds checking out these and the multitude of other remarkable works on display. After you’ve finished with the Louvre (and it may take a while!) head to Notre Dame for some gargoyle-spotting. After you’ve had a good look at the inside and exterior of this remarkable building cross the Seine and head for some food in one of the restaurants that fill the maze-like streets of the Latin Quarter.

Afternoon:

More artistic attractions await in the afternoon so head back across the Seine and make for the astonishing architecture of the Centre Pompidou. This modern masterwork of a building represents a building turned inside out with the pipes, lifts and escalators of the museum all attached to the outside of the building. Inside you’ll find the biggest collection of modern art in Europe.

Evening:

After you’ve enjoyed seeing the art of modernity head for an evening dinner boat tour on the Seine. You’ll get to enjoy good food while travelling along one of the most famous rivers in the world. It’s the perfect way to round off the trip and will give you some fantastic memories to carry home with you.

Are you tempted by a trip to Paris? Where would you visit?

Tags: Art and history, Choosing your accommodation in paris, France, Seeing the big sights, Settling in and enjoying some culture, travel guide of Paris, weekend in Paris

Category: Cities, Cities