Only have a day in Paris? Experience the best of Paris in one day from start to finish!
Learn the best things to do in one day to add to your Paris itinerary!
Your FIRST visit to Paris? Exploring Paris in a day? Start here!
This Paris travel blog will show you what to do in Paris in one day, as I share my top highlights from my trip to Paris, France, to help you experience the most beautiful places and save time!
Discover how to best experience Paris in a day with the best things to do, including must-see places, must-eat (try) famous food, best photo spots, hidden local gems, and essential travel tips to help your Paris travel planning go smoothly!
By Karen Mae | June 29, 2026
I had spent more than one day in Paris from London with my sisters. These are the unique things to do in Paris that we mostly did and experienced during our Paris in a day tour. I am also including what to see in Paris in 1 day for free.
We learned that you can see the best of the City of Light in just 24 hours. We enjoyed seeing the world-famous Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, the Seine River, and Sacré-Cœur, exploring historic and charming streets, eating escargot, macaroons, and Crème brûlée, and more!
I hope this list of the best things to do in Paris in one day aligns with the experience that you’re hoping to have. It’s perfect if it’s your first time visiting Paris!
Ready for an amazing Paris 1 day adventure?
Best Paris in One Day ~ Unique Things To Do
Whether you’re visiting Paris on a layover, taking a short day trip, or adding Paris to a Europe itinerary, I hope this Paris travel guide on the best things to do in Paris in one day will help you prioritize experiences you’re looking for and get the most out of your first visit!
1. Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris
One of the best free things to do in Paris is a visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Entry is completely FREE!
Must-Know | Travel Tips:
- Skip the long lines by reserving a free pass in advance on the Official Notre-Dame Ticket Portal instead of paying for a third-party service.
- Please dress appropriately (covered shoulders, stomach, and thighs)
Prefer a guided tour?
- Book your experience:
My honest experiences:
It can get easily crowded, but it’s totally worth visiting. I got to tour the interior and exterior, which were impressive.
My favorite highlights, besides the stunning Gothic architecture, were lighting a candle, praying inside, and admiring the cathedral’s detailed façade up close. It’s so beautiful in person.
Don’t forget to notice the Point Zéro…
What I found interesting I didn’t know before was learning about the Zero Point of French Roads located directly in front of the cathedral. It serves as the exact geographic center of Paris and a reference point for calculating all distances from Paris to other cities in France.
2. Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre)
One Day in Paris Tips:
The Louvre is massive, with thousands of artworks, so you may need 2 hours for just a quick exploration. If you only have one day in Paris, prioritize what you enjoy most and want to really see and experience.
Even if you only have 24 hours in Paris and are not into art or history, you can just quickly spend 20-30 minutes walking around and taking photos at the Louvre Pyramid Courtyard. It’s completely free to access the courtyard to photograph the iconic glass pyramid.
Then, consider exploring nearby attractions ~ the Tuileries Garden, the Seine River, and Place de la Concorde.
Want a time-reserved access and a 2-hour guided tour of the Louvre?
Book your experience:
The Louvre Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Paris in one day to see masterpieces like the Mona Lisa. If you want to experience art and are interested in history, it’s one of the best places to enjoy Paris in a day.
Paris Travel Tips and Must-Know:
- Avoid wasting time waiting in line and book timed entry tickets EARLY, as it’s one of the most visited attractions in Paris.
- Expect to walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Always crowded, but the Pyramid Entrance is the best photo spot.
- Visit early if you want to see the Mona Lisa without the large crowds.
- There’s a museum map you can download.
- Always check for updated opening days when planning your Paris itinerary.
3. Tuileries Garden
Just minutes walking distance from the Louvre Museum courtyard, there’s a beautiful French garden to enjoy more of Paris views.
It’s peaceful to walk around and appreciate the trees, flowers, and fountain scenery. It’s one of the free things to do in Paris in one day! A perfect place to relax and take photos. It’s where you’ll see some of Paris beautiful views from afar.
My authentic Paris experience:
Find and wander along the tree-lined paths and hidden corners of the garden for quieter views and better photo opportunities. It’s the simplest yet elegant way to experience the peaceful side of Paris.
Short on time? Only have less than 24 hours in Paris, but WANT TO SEE MORE?
- Consider booking the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional Cruise.
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It takes you to all the major popular spots in Paris! You’ll see a lot in just 2 hours! It’s honestly my favorite and most convenient way to see any city whenever I travel solo, I’m short on time, especially when I’m exhausted and still jet-lagged, and don’t want to walk far. It’s always my go-to choice!
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Best part? Relax, sit down, and enjoy the beautiful views on the open-top bus while listening to an informative 2-hour audio guide in the city! Tip: Check the weather and make sure it’s NOT going to rain!
4. Musee de l’Armee des Invalides (Army Museum)
History lover in Paris? Or do you simply enjoy sightseeing beautiful church architecture when traveling?
Musée de l’Armée is one of the interesting things to do in Paris in one day if you want to see more than just the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower!
The museum features France’s military history, and it’s famous for Napoleon’s Tomb. If you’re looking for one of the best photo spots in Paris, the golden dome is worth seeing and photographing!
Must-Know | Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes. The museum involves a lot of walking, like the Louvre!
- Nearby attractions ~ consider combining your visit with the Seine River walk and the Eiffel Tower
Book your experience:
5. Opera Garnier
A must-see stop for your Paris in one day itinerary is the elegant Palais Garnier (Opéra Garnier)! See the well-known highlight of its fancy and grand interior design!
If you only have 24 hours in Paris and are short on time, don’t skip it, as you can just admire the elegant exterior and take photos!
Want to have a palace feel with intricate gold details and luxurious interiors? Consider visiting inside to see the magical atmosphere!
Must-Know | Travel Tips:
- No need to attend a performance to see the Opéra Garnier. Book a self-guided entry ticket.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds.
- The most Instagram-worthy spots: exterior façade from Place de l’Opéra, the grand staircase, and the golden foyer mirrors.
First-time visitors in Paris Tip:
Want to see the best FREE panoramic views of Paris?
- Combine a visit to the nearby famous rooftop view of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann.
6. Musée du Parfum Fragonard (Perfume Museum)
Looking for a free short museum experience?
Within walking distance, located just across from the Opéra Garnier, there’s a complimentary guided tour at the perfume museum, which is a great addition to your Paris itinerary if you’re looking for free and unique things to do in Paris!
Looking for a souvenir?
First-time visitors consider shopping at the boutique to buy Fragonard products as a travel souvenir.
To remember my first trip to Paris, I purchased a few travel-sized perfumes with a pleasant, nostalgic scent! I still have it until now! I remember my experience in Paris whenever I smell it!
7. Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
One of the free things to do in Paris in one day is visiting the FREE rooftop terrace at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann!
Experience the elegant dome atmosphere and explore the skyline at the rooftop for a quick photo stop!
Must Know | Travel Tips
- See the lovely panoramic views of Paris, the Eiffel Tower, and Opéra Garnier without needing to pay!
- This is a convenient place for a rest stop after walking around Paris all day to use the restrooms, grab a refreshment drink/snack, window shop, or escape the rain and cold weather.
Visiting Paris during the holiday season?
This place becomes magical with festive displays, decorations, and a giant Christmas tree under the dome.
Paris’ top-rated activities you can do at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann:
8. Seine River Cruise
See an unobstructed angle of the Eiffel Tower from the water during a cruise along the Seine River!
It also takes you past the popular tourist attractions in Paris, such as the Louvre and Notre-Dame!
The cruise is one of the unmissable things to do in Paris in a day to experience the magic of the city, especially at night, as you’ll see a clear view of the illuminated Eiffel Tower!
Travel Tips:
- Book in advance to save time and money!
- I recommend experiencing the sunset evening lights cruise for the best view!
- Check the weather!
Alternative(s) Feeling romantic?
9. Musee d’ Orsay (Orsay Museum)
Art lover? Looking for an art experience that doesn’t take up a lot of your time?
Consider visiting Musée d’Orsay to see the collection of Impressionist masterpieces.
Did you know it’s a former railway station turned into an art gallery?
Don’t miss the famous massive clock window overlooking Paris and the rooftop terrace!
It is one of the world’s most famous art museums on the left bank of the Seine. You can also just admire its exterior architecture during the river cruise!
Because of its magnificent architecture, it’s a must-see for many first-time travelers!
It’s actually even more beautiful illuminated at night!
Book your experience:
10. Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observation Deck ~ Top of the City
Looking to see the breathtaking panoramic Paris skyline view on a rooftop terrace with the Eiffel Tower? Add Montparnasse Tower to a Paris in one day itinerary!
It has a 56th-floor indoor and rooftop viewing. Admire the iconic Paris landmarks from above, from the top, including: Sacré-Cœur, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre Museum,Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Don’t have time to wait in line and climb the Eiffel Tower? This is a great alternative option!
If you’re visiting Paris for only 24 hours, the experience lets you see one of the best photo spots in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the skyline!
It’s even more beautiful at sunset and at night with city lights!
Travel Tips:
- Visit at sunset for the best experience.
- Save time by booking in advance.
- Check the weather.
- Arrive 1 hour before sunset to see the city from daytime to golden hour, then to Paris night view ~ watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle!
Must-Know
- Closed on March 31, 2026 for a renovation project (lasting several years)
11. Place Vendôme
Looking for Paris luxury shopping?
Experience the glamorous atmosphere of Paris when visiting Place Vendôme, a luxurious square known for its world-famous luxury boutiques!
You’ll find high-end fashion, jewelry, watches, and famous brands here.
If you’re just curious, not shopping, it’s a quick stop where you can walk around, take photos, and admire the Parisian symmetrical street architecture and the tall Vendôme Column!
12. Ladurée’s signature macarons
Want a sweet, colorful experience in Paris? Treat yourself to some delicious French macarons!
Many visitors would agree that this is one of the best things to do and try when coming to Paris!
Visit Ladurée to experience its elegant cafe and savor luxurious, flavorful pastries. They are best known for their two-sided signature macarons.
My honest experience:
I had never seen so many macarons in a cafe, with so many flavors to choose from, until I came to Paris! It’s an overwhelming but memorable experience!
It’s worth stopping for! I really enjoyed tasting the authentic and high-quality French macarons! I also appreciate the lovely decorations and atmosphere inside! A must-experience when visiting Paris in one day!
13. Paris Famous Arches
I’ve seen the iconic Arc de Triomphe, the most famous Arc in Paris, on the way to the Eiffel Tower. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to take a photo.
Instead, I got to photograph the next famous Arc (photo above), Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, smaller but still beautiful, located right outside the Louvre Museum.
I appreciate how elegant and massive the arcs are when seeing them in person, with such intricate sculptures and designs!
Did you know you can climb to the rooftop terrace of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris?
14. Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre
The beautiful white-domed Basilica is one of the best places to visit in Paris! It’s free to enter!
Although crowded, it’s still worth visiting to see the remarkable architecture and viewpoints of Paris, as it’s located at the top of Montmartre hill.
Must-Know | Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes! Expect a lot of stairs and walking!
- Option: Ride the funicular instead of climbing the stairs.
- From the front of Sacré-Cœur’s steps, you’ll see the scenic views of Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the distance! Great for photos!
- Remember to dress appropriately if planning to go inside.
- Don’t leave without seeing the massive golden mosaic of Christ in Majesty inside! Take time to have a peaceful space for prayers and light a candle.
- You can climb to the dome for panoramic views!
Important: AVOID tourist scams!
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Hide your hands! Don’t make eye contact and just ignore anyone who asks/tries to tie something on your finger or wrist!
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Be VERY careful! Based on our experience here, they’re persistent and may just grab your hand or continue following you while walking, so be very assertive when saying “NO,” “Please stop.” Thankfully, there were male travelers around and heard me say “Please stop” louder and intervened.
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Don’t pay attention if asked, “Do you speak English?” or to sign petitions.
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Always keep valuables secure and close to you!
One Day in Paris Tip:
Don’t forget to wander around the charming streets of Montmartre afterward or before coming here!
Prefer to have a tour guide?
- Book your experience: Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre Tour with Expert Guide
15. Eat Escargot (French Snail)
A must-have food experience in Paris is trying escargot (French snails)! It’s considered a traditional French appetizer in Parisian restaurants.
Eating French snails may sound strange, but it’s about having an unforgettable and authentic French culinary experience! In fact, the flavor makes it really delicious!
My honest experience:
I didn’t expect to enjoy eating escargot for the first time! They’re actually delicious and rich in flavor ~ worth trying! To me, they tasted very buttery with garlic and parsley ~ tasted like mussels or clams, slightly chewy!
It’s best to try it after sightseeing. I enjoyed eating it with bread and eating it slowly!
16. Taste the famous French crème brûlée
My honest experience:
Another exciting and memorable Paris experience I had was tasting French crème brûlée!
My Paris trip felt uniquely French with croissants, baguettes, cheese, macarons, and other French desserts. However, my food adventure was incomplete without trying an authentic crème brûlée because it has always been one of my favorite desserts of all time! Whenever I would eat at restaurants in the U.S or in other countries, I’d always choose crème brûlée if it was on the menu! That’s how much I love it!
I am incredibly grateful for moments like this ~ finally trying authentic French crème brûlée in Paris. It’s in these sweet moments like this that I’d feel beyond thankful for the chance to travel, explore, and dive spoon-first into the most delicious crème brûlée.
17. Explore Montmartre neighborhood
Explore one of the most charming and picturesque areas of Paris after visiting Sacré-Coeur.
Wander through the Montmartre neighborhoods with cute cafes, local shops, creatively designed streets, beautiful photo spot corners, and hilltop views.
It’s a must addition to a Paris in one day itinerary, especially if you’re going to see Sacré-Coeur!
While exploring the Montmartre Neighborhood, we happened to see Le Passe-Muraille or The Man Who Could Walk through Walls. Interestingly, there’s another famous wall ~ Wall of Love (Le Mur des Je t’aime), that takes about 5 to 7 minutes to walk down the historic, sloped streets of the Montmartre district. Both of these famous landmarks are located in the 18th arrondissement.
Must Know | Travel Tips
- If you’re looking for one of Montmartre’s best photo spots in Paris, make a quick stop at The Wall of Love (French: Le Mur des Je t’aime). It’s a romantic mural famous for “I love you” written in more than 300 languages and dialects! Many couples, first-time visitors, and solo travelers snap a quick photo for remembrance!
- Be mindful of bracelet/tie and petition scams when wandering through the romantic streets of Montmartre!
- Wear comfortable shoes!
18. Experience a Marilyn Monroe moment
Want to experience that unexpected breeze moment that made history ?
It’s something new and fun I tried while in Paris… Marilyn Monroe’s most iconic moment!
I didn’t miss the chance to experience the classic Marilyn Monroe’s grate moment in Paris by accident! It’s actually pretty funny seeing other travelers do it as well! This photo was taken during a guided tour in Montmartre, Paris.
A “Marilyn Monroe moment” is a famous scene from the movie The Seven Year Itch, where Marilyn Monroe’s white dress is blown upward by air from a subway grate.
19. Visit a charming Parisian cafe or restaurant
Looking for Instagrammable spots in Paris in one day?
When wandering through the Montmartre district of Paris, you can find some charming aesthetics of pretty streets and cafes/restaurants!
Le Vrai Paris caught my eye as we were walking around Montmartre. The exterior is beautifully decorated, creating a popular photo backdrop for tourists!
It’s located at 33 Rue des Abbesses in the 18th arrondissement! It’s absolutely lovely, especially illuminated at night!
20.Moulin Rouge
Located in Pigalle, near the Montmartre area of Paris, the Moulin Rouge is one of the world’s most famous French cabarets. The dazzling performances and iconic red windmill are legendary symbols of Paris nightlife.
Want to experience the famous cabaret show and dress up for a classic Paris night?
For a day in Paris, it may be worth it to add it to your evening itinerary, particularly if you’re a fan of the movie and/or you enjoy elaborate, lavish costumes, fancy atmosphere, stage effects, and vivid performances!
Must-Know | Travel Tips
- Located in the lively Pigalle district (historically famous for its nightlife)
- Book tickets in advance, especially on weekends
- Dress smart casual or elegant clothing per dress code.
- Arrive early, as lines can be long.
One Day in Paris Tips
- Stopping by to see Moulin Rouge illuminated at dusk or at night is worth it, even if you don’t attend the cabaret show. The glowing red windmill is one of the most recognizable photo spots in Paris and a classic old Paris glamour photo moment.
- Combine it with Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre sightseeing.
Alternative (evening itinerary)
21. Eiffel Tower
Last but definitely not least of the best things to do in Paris in one day is what the city is world-famous for: the iconic Eiffel Tower!
Want to see the panoramic views of Paris from the Eiffel Tower?
→Eiffel Tower Entry Ticket with Optional Summit Access←
Paris in one day itinerary Tips:
- Finish your Paris in one day trip by watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night! It’s one of the most memorable Paris travel experiences!
- Even if you only have one day in Paris, don’t skip seeing and capturing your moments with the Eiffel Tower! Esplanade du Trocadéro is a famous spot for photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower! Go down the stairs, as there are better photo spots from there.
Alternative
End your one day in Paris with a Seine River sunset cruise to see Paris and the Eiffel Tower get illuminated at night!
STAYING LONGER IN PARIS?
MORE THINGS TO DO IN PARIS (free entry)
- Grand Palais
- Jardin du Luxembourg
May this post about Paris in one day trip help you plan your travel itinerary to include the best things to do, must-see attractions, scenic views, and travel tips (First-Timer’s Guide)
I hope this Paris travel blog gives you the most memorable experience in the shortest time!
Traveling to Belgium or Netherlands? Read next:
- Bruges in One Day: 16 Best Things To Do, See & Eat For Your First Visit
- Amsterdam in One Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do, See & Eat (First Timer’s Guide)
Thank you for considering these Paris things to do for one day! I hope I have sparked your Paris trip planning!
~ Safe travels and enjoy visiting Paris, France ~
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