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Discover Paris in 2 Days: Pro tips, highlights & more

Gear up for a 2-day adventure in Paris

From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the Gothic pillars of Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is a mesmerizing blend of history, art, and romance, begging to be explored. Hop-on Hop-off bus tours offer a seamless way to explore the wonders of the City of Light. You can jump from one attraction to the next with ease and flexibility. Whether you're a history buff, a solo traveler, or on a family vacation with your kids, this guide ensures you experience the best of Paris in just two days, uncovering both classic landmarks and hidden gems.

Travel logistics - The simplified way to travel

  • Ease of use: You can forget about buying multiple public transport tickets and purchase a single Hop-on Hop-off pass that will take you directly to major attractions.
  • Flexible travel: Get your Hop-on Hop-off pass today and take in the sights of the city at your own pace, without feeling the rush to the next spot on your bucket list.
  • Budget-friendly: Looking to save on your trip to Paris? Then, a Hop-on Hop-off pass is the ideal choice for you. You get unlimited rides for the duration of your pass and can visit top spots in the city with ease.
  • Added perks: Apart from offering a ride to the sights on your bucket list, Hop-on Hop-off buses also have free Wi-Fi, complimentary headphones, live bus tracking, and multilingual audio guides to enrich your sightseeing experience.

Recommended tickets:

  • Big Bus: Paris Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Seine River Cruise
  • Tootbus: Paris Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Seine River Cruise
  • Tootbus: Paris Night Bus Tour
  • Big Bus: Paris Panoramic Night Bus Tour
  • Tootbus: Paris Guided Kids Bus Tour

Find the perfect itinerary for you

Explore the very best of Paris with these itineraries tailored specifically for history enthusiasts, solo travelers, and families. Each itinerary is designed to suit a preferred travel style, so get ready to discover iconic landmarks, enjoy unique cultural experiences, and create fun-filled memories to last a lifetime. Your ultimate Parisian adventure starts here!

For history buffs
For solo travelers
For families

Paris is a dream come true for history buffs! From medieval alleyways to grand palaces, every corner of this city whispers a story from the past. Whether you’re fascinated by Roman ruins, stories of Napoleonic conquests, or the artistic revolutions of Montmartre, Paris has centuries of history waiting to be uncovered. Grab a croissant, take a stroll, and let the past come to life around you!

Day 1

Notre Dame Cathedral exterior with a group of tourists on a walking tour in Paris.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Café de Flore: Enjoy a classic croissant and café au lait in a historic Parisian setting.

Notre Dame Cathedral

A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, Notre Dame is stunning to behold, with its rose and stained-glass windows, tapestry collections, and towering gargoyles.

Nearest Stop: 

  • Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Notre Dame (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Climb up the towers to soak up breathtaking, panoramic views of Paris.
  • Big fan of architecture? The stained glass windows, looming spires, and the flying buttresses are a feast for the eyes.
  • For a spookier twist to your exploration, visit the crypt for a glimpse into Paris's ancient past.

Pro Tip: Remember that despite being a touristy hotspot, the cathedral is still a place of worship. So speak in hushed tones to avoid disturbing ongoing mass or meditation.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 15 minutes by bus

Louvre Museum entrance with Inverted Pyramid and visitors exploring the courtyard in Paris.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Le Procope: Savor coq au vin in Paris's oldest café, a favorite for local history enthusiasts.

Louvre Museum

Home to thousands of iconic paintings and sculptures, including the famous Mona Lisa, the Louvre is a treasure trove of art and history, and a must-see for anyone interested in Parisian or global history.

Nearest Stop: 

  • Big Bus: Louvre-Pyramide / Big Bus Information Centre (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • First order of business, explore the vast collections of artwork, including the world-renowned Mona Lisa.
  • Don't forget the Louvre houses a vast Egyptian antiquities collection for anyone interested in North African history.
  • Marvel at I.M. Pei’s steel and glass Pyramid and click your best pictures before entering the museum.

Pro Tip: The Louvre hosts thousands of artworks by famous artists. It is difficult to see them all in one go, especially if you have limited time. Research in advance and make sure to see a select few paintings and sculptures.

Time Spent: 3 hours

Time to next stop: 15 minutes by bus

People exploring Arc de Triomphe, Paris, with detailed architectural features visible.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Arc de Triomphe

A symbol of French national pride, the Arc de Triomphe honors the brave souls who fought for France’s glory during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars.

Nearest Stop: 

  • Big Bus: Champs-Elysées (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Champs Elysées – George V (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Get to the top of this historic landmark for stunning views of the Champs-Élysées.
  • Make sure to explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located beneath the arch.
  • Take close-up shots and admire the intricate sculptures and engravings along this grand monument.

Pro Tip: Visit around 6pm for breathtaking sunset views of the city.

Time Spent: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: 30 minutes by bus

Late Night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Le Jules Verne: Dine on classic French cuisine with an unparalleled view from the Eiffel Tower.

Day 2

Visitor viewing Paris skyline from Eiffel Tower's second floor.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Angelina: Indulge in their famous hot chocolate and Mont Blanc pastry.

Eiffel Tower

Paris has come to be associated with this wrought-iron tower piercing its skyline. From its second and third levels, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Nearest Stop: 

  • Big Bus: Tour Eiffel (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Tour Eiffel (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Ride the elevator all the way to the top for unparalleled views of Paris.
  • Visit the summit bar and treat yourself to a glass of champagne.
  • Pull out your phone and take as many pictures as you can of the tower from below and the city and skyline from above.

Pro Tip: Come back in the evening so you don’t miss the tower lighting up from dusk until midnight. The sight is truly spectacular.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 15 minutes by bus

Visitors exploring art exhibits inside the Orsay Museum, Paris, during a guided tour.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Le Suffren: Treat yourself to seafood platters & grilled meats at a local restaurant.

Musée d'Orsay

Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d'Orsay houses the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces in the world.

Nearest Stop: 

  • Big Bus: Musée d'Orsay (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée d'Orsay (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Admire popular works by renowned Impressionists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
  • Marvel at the grand and imposing structure of the museum constructed in the Beaux-Arts style.
  • Want to view charming views of the Seine? Then take a visit to the rooftop terrace.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that flash photography isn’t allowed inside the museum. So fiddle with your phone’s camera settings before your visit.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 20 minutes by bus

Lower Chapels in Sainte Chapelle with stained glass windows, Paris, France.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Sainte-Chapelle 

Known for housing the most prestigious relic of the Passion of Christ: the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross, Sainte-Chapelle is a must-see for anyone interested in mythic history.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the vibrant stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
  • Wander through the upper Chapelle and take in its breathtaking architecture.
  • If you have the time later in your schedule, attend an evening concert for a truly magical experience.

Pro Tip: Visit during the late afternoons to see the light filter in through the stained glass windows. 

Time Spent: 1 hour

Time to next stop: 15 minutes by bus

Late Night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Le Meurice: Experience fine dining with a menu inspired by classic French cuisine.

Paris is a solo traveler’s paradise! With its charming cafés, world-class museums, and picturesque streets made for wandering, the city invites you to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re savoring a croissant at a sidewalk café, striking up a conversation with locals, or simply soaking in the romantic atmosphere of the city, Paris makes solo travel feel like an adventure. Here, being alone never feels lonely, only liberating!

Day 1

People on Second floor of Eiffel tower looking at the view of Paris

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Holybelly: Relish pancakes and specialty coffee in a cozy setting before kicking off your day.

Eiffel Tower

The iconic symbol of Paris, piercing its clear blue skyline, offers breathtaking views of the city from its second and third stories.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Tour Eiffel (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Tour Eiffel (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Ascend to the upper stories for panoramic views of the city.
  • Get an audio guide or book a guided tour to learn about the tower's history and construction.
  • Capture stunning photos of the tower from the Trocadéro Gardens.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the tower lighting up from sunset till midnight.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 20 minutes by bus

Sainte Chapelle's intricate stained glass windows in Paris, France.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Chez Janou: Feast on some traditional Provençal cuisine with a charming courtyard view as you take a break for the day.

Sainte-Chapelle

Wander through this Gothic chapel, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows and for housing holy relics like the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the vibrant stained glass windows that depict popular scenes from the Bible.
  • Take a closer look at the intricate Gothic architecture and grand interiors of the chapel.
  • Want to learn more about its history as a royal chapel? Purchase an audio guide or opt for a live guided tour.

Pro Tip: Try to visit the chapel on a sunny day and see how glorious the light looks filtering in through the stained-glass windows.

Time Spent: 1 hour

Time to next stop: 15 minutes by bus

Le Marais Parisian street scene with historic architecture and local shops.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Le Marais

Spend a lazy afternoon strolling through this trendy district known for its boutiques, cafés, and historic architecture. 

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue Route)

Highlights: 

  • Stroll through the charming streets and hidden courtyards.
  • Discover local shops and art galleries, where you can pick up unique souvenirs.
  • Enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk café and soak in the quintessential Parisian experience.

Pro Tip: Visit the Place des Vosges for a peaceful retreat from the city.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 9 minutes by walk

Day 2

Tourist enjoying panoramic view from Montparnasse Tower terrace, Paris.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Café des Deux Moulins: Enjoy a classic French breakfast before setting off on your day’s adventure.

Montparnasse Tower

Looking for an incredible Parisian view, with the Eiffel Tower against the skyline? Then take a trip to Montparnasse Tower and see the city spread out before you. 

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Enjoy a 360-degree view of the Parisian skyline from the tower’s observation deck. 
  • Spot famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and more.
  • Opt for an audio guide and learn about the tower's history and construction.

Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise to see the city bathed in a serene, golden glow.

Time Spent: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: 30 minutes by bus

Père Lachaise Cemetery pathway with famous graves, Paris tour.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie: Savor French delicacies in a cozy bistro before setting off on your afternoon adventure.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Pay a visit to the largest cemetery in Paris, known for its graves of famous people, including Molière, Frédéric Chopin, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and more.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Visit the graves of Edith Piaf, Chopin, and Oscar Wilde.
  • Spend some time wandering through the peaceful grounds.
  • Learn about the cemetery's history and notable residents.

Pro Tip: Download a map before your trip so you can easily find the graves of famous people.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 10 minutes by bus

Canal Saint Martin with boats and tree-lined banks in Paris, France.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Canal Saint-Martin

In the mood for a contemplative stroll? Then head to Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque canal lined with trendy shops and cafés.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Stroll along the scenic canal and watch boats and people pass you by.
  • Step into unique boutiques and art galleries lining the canal front for some spontaneous shopping.
  • Enjoy a coffee at a canal-side café.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic with some croissants and coffee to enjoy by the water.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 5 minutes by walk

Late Night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Chez Prune: As your Parisian adventure comes to an end, dine at this popular local spot and indulge in some drinks and people-watching.

From the enchanting carousels in every neighborhood to the wonders of the Eiffel Tower, there’s something to delight kids and parents alike. Explore interactive exhibits at Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, set sail at Jardin des Tuileries, and indulge in sweet treat like macarons, crêpes, and the fluffiest croissants! In Paris, every moment feels like an adventure the whole family can enjoy.

Day 1

Jardin des Tuileries in Paris with family strolling along tree-lined paths.

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Café de la Paix: Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast with a view of the Opéra Garnier.

Jardin des Tuileries

Begin your day with a stroll through the lush landscape of Jardin des Tuileries, a beautiful garden perfect for your kids to get some outdoor time.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Explore the playgrounds and wide open spaces with your kids.
  • If you skip breakfast, you can pack a small family picnic and enjoy it by the fountains.
  • Discover plenty of sculptures and art installations peppered through the gardens.

Pro Tip: Rent a toy sailboat for the kids to sail in the pond.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 30 minutes by bus

Universe and Space Exploration exhibit at Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, Paris.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Le Pain Quotidien: Offers organic and kid-friendly meals in a cozy setting.

Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie

Spend your afternoon at Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Visit the children’s area, where your kids can interact fun, hands-on science exhibits, perfect for sparking their curiosity.
  • If your child enjoys space science, visit the Universe and Space Exploration section.
  • Don’t miss the exhibits on the latest technological advancements.

Pro Tip: Check the schedule before your visit for family-friendly workshops and shows you don’t want to miss.

Time Spent: 3 hours

Time to next stop: 25 minutes by bus

Parc des Buttes Chaumont in Paris with lush greenery, a suspension bridge, and a temple on a hilltop.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Spend your evening in this picturesque park with its small hills, waterfalls, and suspension bridge.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Enjoy a scenic walk through lush lawns and go cave exploring.
  • Visit the Temple de la Sibylle to see stunning views of the city.
  • Relax by the lake and watch the ducks pass by on the water.

Pro Tip: Bring a kite for your kids to fly out on the open lawns.

Time Spent: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 15 minutes by bus

Late Night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Pizza Pino: End your day at this family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of pizzas and pastas.

Day 2

Family enjoying at Disneyland Paris with Mickey Mouse decorations

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Café des Chats: Begin your day at this unique café where kids can enjoy breakfast with friendly cats.

Disneyland Paris

Get ready for a magical adventure at this fun-filled theme park offering exciting rides and shows for the whole family.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Meet beloved Disney characters and click pictures with them.
  • Explore thrilling rides and themed attractions as a family.
  • Don’t miss the spectacular parades and shows that can pop up at a moment’s notice.

Pro Tip: Download the Disneyland app before your trip for ride wait times and show schedules.

Time Spent: 6 hours

Time to next stop: 1 to 10 minute walk away

RC Racer ride at Walt Disney Studios Park, Disneyland Paris, featuring a U-shaped track.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Agrabah Café: Enjoy a buffet of Middle Eastern dishes in a restaurant located within the theme park.

Walt Disney Studios Park

Once you’ve experienced the attractions and rides of Disneyland, head to Walt Disney Studios Park, and experience the true magic of cinema through immersive attractions and shows.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Louvre - Pont des Arts (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Musée du Louvre (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Explore the world of Disney movies and animation.
  • Enjoy thrilling rides and live shows.
  • Discover behind-the-scenes secrets of filmmaking.

Pro Tip: Catch the daily parade and sing and dance along with hundreds of people.

Time Spent: 3 hours

Time to next stop: 60 minutes by bus

Children playing in the wave pool at Aquaboulevard water park, Paris.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Aquaboulevard

Spend your evening at Aquaboulevard, a large indoor-outdoor water park with slides, wave pools, and a wakeboard simulator.

Nearest Stop:

  • Big Bus: Tour Eiffel (Red route)
  • Tootbus: Tour Eiffel (Blue route)

Highlights:

  • Spend your evening cooling down from the day's heat by heading down water slides.
  • Relax on the sun loungers on the beach and build sandcastles with your kids.
  • Head to the wave pools and wakeboard simulators for exciting water-based adventures.

Pro Tip: Take a swing on Tarzan’s rope and feel like the king of the jungle for one glorious minute.

Time Spent: 3 hours

Time to next stop: 10 minutes

Late Night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Rainforest Café: Wind down at the end of your two-day adventure at this themed restaurant offering a fun dining experience for kids.

Alternate stops to customize your Paris itinerary

  • Palais Garnier

A grand opera house known for its opulent architecture and performances.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Opéra Garnier (Red route); Tootbus: Printemps/Galerie Lafayette (Blue route)

  • Luxembourg Gardens

A peaceful oasis at the heart of Paris, perfect for a leisurely stroll or clicking instagrammable pictures.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route); Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue route)

  • Pantheon

Pay a visit to this neoclassical mausoleum housing the remains of notable French figures from history.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Notre Dame (Red route); Tootbus: Notre-Dame - Quartier Latin (Blue route)

  • Champs-Élysées

A world-famous avenue and a quintessential Parisian sight, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and theaters.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Champs-Elysées (Red route); Tootbus: Champs Elysées – George V (Blue route)

  • Place de la Concorde

A major public square with historic significance and stunning fountains where you can sit and read.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Grand Palais (Red route); Tootbus: Concorde (Blue route)

  • Pont Alexandre III

Catch stunning views of the Seine and watch life pass by in Paris from this ornate bridge.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Grand Palais (Red route); Tootbus: Concorde (Blue route)

  • Les Invalides

Dive deep into France’s military history with a visit to this complex of museums and monuments.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Musée d'Orsay (Red route); Tootbus: Pont des Invalides – Place de Finlande (Blue route)

  • La Défense

Step out of the old world and into this modern business district with impressive skyscrapers and art installations.

Nearest stop: Big Bus: Champs-Elysées (Red route); Tootbus: Champs Elysées – George V (Blue route)