Two Days In Paris: Things To See & Do

Paris, the City of Light, is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, and it’s especially convenient for those in the UK. With numerous flights from Manchester to Paris and flights from London to Paris available, it’s easier than ever to plan a quick weekend getaway to this enchanting city.

But can you really experience the best of Paris in just two days? Absolutely! I’ve put together the perfect itinerary for a brief two-day visit to the French capital. This guide will help you make the most of your time and savor everything this incredible city has to offer

First off, make sure to stay central, whether that’s Adele & Jules in Grands Boulevards, Hotel Teresa in Palais Royal or La Chambre du Marais in Bataclan.

Day One In Paris

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not start your first day bright and early at Bon Bouquet Café near Grands Boulevards, ideal for fluffy pancakes, French toast to die for and a great matcha to get you raring to go.

It may be cliched, but the Louvre is one of the busiest destinations in the city for a reason. From the Mona Lisa to the Venus de Milo, along with the famed staircase from the film Funny Face, you’ll easily be able to waste away the hours at this art nirvana.

Once you’re done with that, why not stroll the banks of the Seine River, taking some 45-60 minutes, passing famous bridges on your way west to the Eiffel Tower. If you’re feeling peckish on the way, grab a deliciously fresh and crispy baguette at Le Moulin de la Vierge. Revel in the shadow of the giant iron structure, go to the top (don’t forget to book ahead!), and then relax in the gardens below.

For dinner, the nearby La Fontaine de Mars is the place to be, a traditional style little bistro, complete with red chequered table clothes and leather seats, and wonderful classics like the hearty slow-cooked stew, cassoulet.

Day Two In Paris

Get your day going with a quick pastry and strong coffee at Café Kitsune at Palais Royal, with great views to people watch from its second floor.

Time to put on your walking shoes and head northwards, it’s time for Montmartre. Walk up the green garden walkways up to the famous Sacré-Cœur, or take the funicular if you’ve had enough walking for today. Explore the grand religious site and head up to the dome for some spectacular views across the city, including the Eiffel Tower in the distance.

Now you’ve worked up an appetite, time for a star luncheon at Pink Mamma, where you can feast on scrumptious Italian fare, all while taking in the beautiful surroundings of their skylight terrace on the top floor.

Hopefully, the sun is out and shining, as you’ll be heading south towards Jardin du Luxembourg, the crowning jewel of the city’s green spaces. The enchanted avenues are great for a stroll, while the main fountain plaza is an amazing people-watching hub. Also don’t forget to check out the Fontaine Medicis, a stunning small decorative fountain that you won’t be able to stop snapping or just staring at.

As you’re in the neighbourhood, there’s no excuse to not check out the Pantheon. This stunning neoclassic mausoleum is known for being the resting place of Marie Curie, Voltaire and Victor Hugo, plus it also has an impressive viewing platform for more roof-gazing.

For your last night in Paris, go out in style with Candelaria, the best Mexican diner in Paris, maybe even France. This cosy little bar and restaurant barely has ten seats, but if you manage to find yourself in one of them, you are one lucky customer. Start off with their crisp and light nachos, then dive into one of their four tacos on their rotating menu. Finish off your meal by heading to their secret speakeasy in the back for a Pomona Cocktail or Avocado Mezcal.