The Perfect 48-Hour Guide to Paris

Europe has some of the best destinations in the world. Many see Europe as a monolith; however, this great continent has such a diverse range of cities ready to be explored. Most people will not be able to explore every single capital city in Europe, but with so many to choose from, it can be difficult to whittle down a few which make the perfect 48-hour city break with culture, history and good food that you will remember forever.

48 hours may not seem like a lot of time to see one of the greatest cities in the world; however, with an effective itinerary and a lot of planning, you can see all that these cities have to offer in only 2 days. Paris is known as the city of romance with its stunning architecture and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Make it part of your holidays and leave your trip fulfilled and with many, many stories to tell your friends and family.

Paris in 48 hours: Iconic landmarks and Parisian charm

Paris is well-known around the world, featuring iconic film and romanticised for its romantic vibe and iconic landmarks. Its combination of some of the best museums around the world as well as delicious food and the sought-after Parisian vibe make it a must-see for anyone going to Europe. You'll never run out of things to do in this city with sightseeing, shopping galore and day trips around the city. So, from the Mona Lisa to steak frites, coffee houses to the Moulin Rouge, this 48-hour itinerary aims to make the most of the culture, sites and food of Paris so you can experience all that the city has to offer efficiently, but also whilst exploring the city and all of its history and culture to its fullest. 

Day 1: 

• The morning: Early in the day is the best time to do some tourist activities, as not only is it less busy, but it gives you the rest of the day to eat and slow down. The must-see landmarks in Paris are obvious: the iconic Eiffel Tower, known all over the world. Before you head to the Eiffel Tower, ensure that you have pre-bought tickets, as well as ensuing taht the day is clear to avoid any disappointment at the top not being able to see anything. 

• Afternoon: Adventure out to some of Paris’s most iconic neighbourhoods such as Le Marais, famous for the Georges Pompidou Centre, several amazing museums and an iconic Jewish neighbourhood. Also adventure out to Montmartre by metro, a quaint area in Paris famous for several things. Not only can you venture around its winding cobbled streets enjoying all of its vintage shops, but you can visit the Sacré-Cœur and the Moulin Rouge, which are both iconic landmarks in Paris.

• Evening: Enjoy traditional French cuisine such as escargot, beef bourguignon or steak frites, signature French dishes,  accompanied by a local French red wine in many local bistros. Afterwards, head out to the streets to experience Paris by night; you can visit the clubs and bars of Paris or even just explore the streets and see paris buy night. Why not walk the Seine and see Notre Dame lit up at night or even venture out to West Paris and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

Day 2:

• The morning: The next morning is the best time to check off some of Paris’s amazing museums. Whilst the Louvre is the most popular museum in Paris, housing one of the world's most famous paintings, the Mona Lisa, inside an amazing structure, Paris is also home to other iconic museums such as the Musée d’Orsay, housing many other famous paintings such as Dante and Virgil

• Afternoon: Explore some of Paris’s famous markets or boutique shopping streets located all around the city. Ensure you visit on a Sunday to make the most of the Sunday markets, which can be found all over the city and sell everything from clothing to food, so you can experience the city truly like a local.

• Evening: Wander around some of Paris's famous gardens to make the most of your final evening with a crepe or waffel to finish off the evening, before your departure for charles do gaul, which is only an hour train ride from the centre, meaning that you can make the most of your day before departure. 

Final thoughts

Paris offers its own unique experience, a perfect 48-hour escape for those who want to see the romantic side of Europe, whether you fly there or rent out a van or get your bus driver training. So if you want to visit Europe soon, consider Paris for your next visit. Follow or itinery, and you're guaranteed to make the most out of your trip.