Paris is one of those cities you might visit out of curiosity, for work, or simply for love, and you rarely leave it unchanged. Whether it’s your first time, a business trip, or a quick European getaway, a weekend is enough to feel its soul — the lively cafés, the calm of the Seine, the golden sunsets over the rooftops.
Here’s my personal itinerary, designed for two unforgettable days in Paris — blending iconic sights, local secrets, and those small, everyday pleasures that make the city so unique.
🗓️ Day 1 – Classic and Romantic Paris
Morning: The Magic of Montmartre
Start your weekend in Montmartre, one of my favorite corners of Paris. I love wandering there early in the morning, when the cobbled streets are still quiet. Climb up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a breathtaking panoramic view — in my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city.
Then, get lost among the small streets around Place du Tertre, where painters set up their easels. Sit down at Café des Deux Moulins (yes, the one from Amélie) and enjoy a coffee while soaking in the bohemian atmosphere.
Lunch: A Taste of Authentic Paris
Head down towards Pigalle and make a gourmet stop. I really like Bouillon Pigalle, a lively, traditional brasserie where you can enjoy a classic œuf mayo or boeuf bourguignon surrounded by locals.
Afternoon: Strolling Through the Heart of Paris
Make your way to central Paris and explore the area around Opéra Garnier, Palais-Royal, and the Louvre. Even if you don’t go inside the museum, walking across its courtyard and under the glass Pyramid is a unique experience.
From there, follow the Seine River on foot — from the Pont des Arts to Notre-Dame, taking your time to browse the old bookstalls and admire the elegant Haussmann-style buildings.
Evening: Dinner and Eiffel Tower Sparkles
For your first evening, head to Trocadéro or Champ de Mars to watch the Eiffel Tower light up the night. For dinner with a view, I highly recommend Les Ombres (on the rooftop of the Quai Branly Museum) or Carette near Trocadéro.
🗓️ Day 2 – Local and Authentic Paris
Morning: A Walk Through Le Marais
On Sunday morning, start the day in Le Marais, one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, where history meets modern energy. Stroll around the beautiful Place des Vosges, then wander through the small streets filled with independent boutiques and art galleries.
For brunch, you can’t go wrong with Les Philosophes or Café Charlot — both have great food and that unmistakable Parisian buzz.
Afternoon: Culture and Relaxation by the Water
Cross the Seine and visit the Centre Pompidou for a dose of modern art, or head to Île Saint-Louis for an ice cream at the famous Berthillon.
If you’d rather slow down, find a spot along the Canal Saint-Martin. Parisians love to picnic, read, or simply relax there. It’s one of my favorite places to feel the real Paris — calm, local, and full of life.
Evening: Ending on a High Note
To wrap up your weekend, have dinner in the lively Bastille or Oberkampf neighborhoods — where the energy lasts late into the night. And if you still have some energy left, grab a last drink on a rooftop like Le Perchoir, offering a stunning view of the Paris skyline.
No matter why you’re here — for work, travel, or just a short break — Paris always finds a way to win your heart. It’s a city that charms without effort, surprises without warning, and leaves you wanting more. Because deep down, every stay in Paris is the beginning of a new story. 💙
—Jean