How to Spend 3 Days Solo in Paris: Itinerary + Map

ByMelissa Byron

A Solo Woman Traveling uses human-written content that contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC. When you make a purchase on a link, we may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

Looking for a simple, smart-paced itinerary to see the best of Paris in three days? I got you.

I’ve been to Paris more times than I can count. I’ve done all the must-see sights, and let me be honest. Some are absolutely worth it, and some you can skip.

I’m not much of a museum person, but even I think the Louvre and the Petit Palais are worth your time.

I’m the kind of solo traveler who cares more about neighborhoods, cafés, and charming little hotels than racing from sight to sight. I like cities that feel lived in. That’s why this itinerary is more experience-based and less of a checklist.

I designed it to be well-paced, with natural breaks and suggestions for where to eat along the way. And honestly, finding good places to eat is why I started this blog in the first place.

So if you’re a solo traveler who wants to see what Paris is really about in three days without feeling rushed, let’s get into it.

Pinterest imagine promoting solo trip to Paris.
Pinterest image for 3 days in Paris blog post

Paris Itinerary Quick Overview

Day 1: Highlights

  • Eiffel Tower
  • Louvre
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Rue de Rivoli
  • Seine River Cruise Dinner
  • Dining at: Terres de Cafe, Maison Maison, (Dinner on River Cruise)

All restaurants are linked with locations in each section of this itinerary.

Day 2: Highlights

  • Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Montmartre
  • Sacré-Coeur
  • Père Lachaise Cemetery
  • Moulin Rouge
  • Dining at: Kozy Cafe, Le Cabanon de la Butte, Moulin Rouge

Day 3: Highlights

  • Petit Palis Museum
  • Champs-Élysées
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Galeries Lafayette
  • Dining at: Café Le Carré Élysée, Le Sens Unique, Hébé

Don’t forget to grab the Google Map of all these locations at the end of the post!

Who This 3-Day Paris Itinerary Is For

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to see Paris without rushing through it.

It’s a great fit if:

  • This is your first or second time in Paris
  • You enjoy walking, neighborhoods, and café culture
  • You want to see the highlights but still have time to sit and enjoy the city

It’s probably not for you if your goal is to visit every museum or pack every hour with sightseeing.

A woman in elegant black attire poses thoughtfully on a Parisian bridge, with the iconic silhouette of the Eiffel Tower in the background. The soft light of an overcast sky gives the scene a serene ambiance, reflecting the contemplative solitude of solo travel.
The Eiffel Tower stands majestically against a cloudy sky, viewed from the riverbank with verdant tree branches arching overhead. A river cruise boat is docked along the Seine, waiting for passengers to embark on a scenic journey through the heart of Paris.

Getting Around Paris as a Solo Traveler

Paris is a great city for confident solo travelers.

Because Paris is such a large city, you’ll want to feel comfortable using the Metro and other public transit. It’s efficient, affordable, and the fastest way to move between neighborhoods. You do not need a car for this itinerary.

This itinerary is paced so that each stop makes sense geographically. Many sections can be done on foot, especially within the same neighborhood, and when walking makes sense, I note it. For longer distances, the Metro keeps travel time short and predictable.

Uber and Bolt are easy to use, especially in the evenings or if you’re tired at the end of the day.

A metro station with a "Pte de Versailles" sign, tracks leading into a dark tunnel, tiled walls, and overhead lighting.
The exterior of Gare de l'Est in Paris, a historic train station with a large arched glass window and intricate architectural details. The cobblestone forecourt features potted plants and festive holiday decorations, including garlands and a Christmas tree. Passersby and travelers can be seen near the entrance.

What You’ll Need

To follow this itinerary smoothly, there are just a couple of things to set up first. Download my Google Map for this itinerary so you can easily see where each stop is and how the days connect. It makes navigating between neighborhoods much easier, especially when parts of the day are walkable.

For public transportation, you’ll need a physical Navigo Easy card. You can buy this at any Metro station from the ticket machines or service counter when you arrive. Once you have the card, you can reload it using your phone or at station machines.

I recommend downloading the Bonjour RATP app. It helps you plan Metro routes, check service updates, and manage your transit balance once your card is set up. Google Maps also works well for directions, but Bonjour RATP is more reliable for real time transit information.

Once you have the map downloaded and your transit card sorted, getting around Paris is straightforward.

Paris metro card
Paris metro card app

Get The Google Map of Paris!

Subscribe to the newsletter and get my pre-pinned Google Map with all the best spots from this Paris guide—restaurants, bars, hotels, and top sights, all saved and ready to explore!

Subscribe for the map

Where to Stay Solo in Paris

If you want this 3-day itinerary to feel easy, where you stay matters. Paris is very walkable, but it’s still a big city, and having a good home base makes everything smoother.

My favorite neighborhoods to stay in are the 9th, Le Marais, and Saint-Germain. All three are ideal for solo travelers, especially if you love a boutique hotel and want to be able to walk out the door and immediately feel like you’re in Paris.

This itinerary works well from any of these areas, and you’ll have simple Metro access to everything on the schedule.

The 9th (Opéra + South Pigalle)

This is my go-to neighborhood when I want convenience, great cafés, and a lively Paris vibe without feeling like I’m trapped in a tourist zone. It’s also perfect for Day 3 (Galeries Lafayette) and makes getting to Montmartre and Moulin Rouge super easy.

My favorite hotels in the 9th:

  • Hôtel Eldorado Paris – Quiet, comfortable, and very well rated. Feels calm while still being well connected. This is my favorite hotel in Paris.
  • Hôtel Beige – Modern boutique hotel in a great location. Easy base for sightseeing.
  • Hôtel Les Matins de Paris & Spa – Stylish rooms and a small spa. Popular with solo travelers.

Le Marais (3rd/4th)

Le Marais is central, charming, and one of the easiest places to base yourself if you’re trying to see a lot in a short amount of time. You’ll be close to the Seine, Notre Dame, and the kinds of streets you actually want to wander with a coffee in hand.

My favorite hotels in Le Marais:

  • La Chambre du Marais – Small, modern boutique hotel with excellent reviews and a central location.
  • Hôtel Bourg Tibourg – Unique design and very well located. Quiet but close to everything.
  • Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais – Classic Parisian style. Great value for the location.

Saint-Germain (6th)

Saint-Germain is classic Paris. It’s a little calmer, very pretty, and full of cafés that feel made for solo travel. If you like mornings that start slow, long walks, and a more polished neighborhood vibe, this is an amazing base.

My favorite hotels in Saint-Germain:

  • Hôtel de Seine – Reliable, well rated, and easy walking access to the Seine and cafés.
  • Hotel Left Bank Saint Germain – Simple, comfortable, and consistently well reviewed.
  • Esprit Saint Germain – Higher end of mid-range. Very comfortable and solo-friendly.

Day 1 – Paris Itinerary

Morning:

On your first day in Paris, let’s hit the most iconic attraction, The Effiel Tower! But first, you want to find something to eat before arriving.

Take the metro (8) to École Militaire and visit Terres de Café.

Here, grab a croissant or lemon pound cake and a cappuccino. The cafe is an 8-minute walk from your first stop this morning!

A close-up image of a cozy moment at a Paris café, featuring a cup of cappuccino with artful froth and a slice of lemon cake on dark blue ceramic dishes. The warm, inviting ambiance suggests a perfect break for any traveler needing a moment of relaxation.
An interior view of a bustling Paris café, showcasing a modern and inviting space. Wooden tables and chairs with patterned cushions are arranged neatly, while customers engage casually at the counter under warm yellow lights, depicting a lively scene typical of Parisian life.

Pro Tip: Most of the cafes around the Eiffel Tower are WILDLY overpriced. I’m talking €25 omelets and €8 lattes. Don’t walk the neighborhood hangry, or you might end up spending a small fortune.

Eiffel Tower

After you are fueled up by coffee and croissants, it’s time to hit up the Eiffel Tower! I found that early morning is a great way to avoid the MAJOR crowds.

But, don’t expect it to be empty, just not as busy as it gets later in the day.

Take an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city. I recommend booking this guided tour in advance or getting a skip-the-line ticket. Otherwise, you will need to be prepared to wait, even if you arrive in the morning.

Learn all about Gustave Eiffel, the engineer behind the design and construction of the Eiffel Tower.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, it stands tall in the heart of Paris.

If you have a fear of heights, then you can skip going to the top, and just wander around the grounds!

A solo female traveler stands in a park near the Eiffel Tower, dressed in an elegant all-black outfit with a long coat. She looks away thoughtfully, touching her hair, as the iconic tower rises majestically in the background, framed by lush green spring foliage.
A view of the Eiffel Tower from a nearby garden path, showcasing lush greenery and colorful flowers. The overcast sky adds a dramatic backdrop to this iconic structure.

Afternoon: 

Louvre Museum

After you’ve had your fill at the Eiffel Tower, you can easily head to the next major attraction Paris has to offer, the Louvre Museum!

It is a beautiful building and a great place with a vast collection of art and historical treasures.

Spend the afternoon on a quick 2-hour visit to the Louvre exploring world-famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. 

Visiting the ground is an absolute must, but is visiting inside the Louvre worth it?

As you may have heard, the Mona Lisa is a bit underwhelming with how tiny the painting is, and how many people are crowded around it.

If you are not a major art lover, and feeling short on time, you could skip the interior visit, and just visit the building itself.

The iconic Louvre Museum with its modern glass pyramid contrasted against the historical building facade, under a cloudy sky, a classic sight in the heart of Paris.
A close-up view of the Louvre's glass pyramid, showcasing its geometric design and the reflection of the surrounding historical architecture, symbolizing the blend of old and new in Paris.

PRO MONEY SAVING TIP: Get the Museum Pass for Paris, and get free admission to over 60 museums and monuments in and around Paris!

After exploring the Louvre, why not wind down with a late afternoon at Maison Maison?

The highlight of my trip was diving into the French cuisine there. I absolutely loved their little neck clams!

You can make reservations, and I recommend it if it’s a really nice day since it sits on the Seine River with a view of the Eiffel Tower!

Later, if the weather is nice, a great place to check out between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde is the Tuileries Garden.

It is a 15-minute walk from Maison Maison.

A scenic view from a lush garden in Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. The garden is bustling with visitors, and a fountain adds to the tranquility under a blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds.
Tuileries Garden
A close-up of a bronze statue of a reclining figure, holding a cluster of leaves, set against a backdrop of Parisian garden scenery with blooming trees and a clear sky.
Statue Near Tuileries Garden

Here you will find a picturesque public park with immaculate lawns, beautiful flowerbeds, and sculptures, providing a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

Alternatively, you could visit Rue de Rivoli, one of the most famous streets in Paris, Rue de Rivoli is known for its upscale shopping!

A bustling shopping street in Paris, with modern architecture and pedestrians enjoying a sunny day, reflecting the lively urban life and fashion culture of the city.
A reflective shop window displays luxury bags on a golden backdrop, with the architecture of Paris mirrored in the glass, symbolizing the city's chic and stylish atmosphere.

My Travel Planning Resources

Evening: 

Seine River Cruise

When I travel alone, I like to find ways to be social. On my last trip to Paris, I joined a gourmet dinner river cruise along the Seine!

While there are a few dinner cruises to choose from, this river cruise with dinner and live music allows you to book for one person!

I was sat next to a friendly couple from California who was there celebrating their anniversary.

We were served a three-course meal and you can opt for wine for an additional fee.

A night scene on a river cruise in Paris, with diners enjoying their meals under the illuminated Eiffel Tower visible through the glass roof, reflecting off the water for a magical dining experience.
A plate of fish served over a bed of lentils and topped with fresh spinach, presented on a white plate in an intimate dining setting with ambient lighting and glasses of water and wine.

PRO TIP: If being alone is something you are very sensitive to, you might want to skip a dinner cruise, and do a regular cruise. I am comfortable being on my own, but when I first started solo traveling I was a little uncomfortable.

Day 2- Paris Itinerary

Morning 

On my second morning in Paris, I wanted eggs and avocado toast! So I found a great place next to Notre Dame! I went to Kozy, a reasonably priced and delicious cafe minutes from the Cathedral.

A cozy corner of a Parisian café with vibrant blue decor and wooden tables, offering a welcoming atmosphere for a leisurely coffee break.
A beautifully presented avocado toast topped with pomegranate seeds and a poached egg, served on a striped blue and white plate, accompanied by a refreshing iced latte on a rustic wooden table.

If you prefer freshly baked croissants and a frothy cappuccino. Visit Shakespeare and Company Cafe, just a 3-minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral!

Notre Dame Cathedral

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral. Admire its stunning Gothic architecture and take pictures!

A close-up selfie of a solo female traveler, with the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in the background. Her warm smile and casual style contrast beautifully against the intricate Gothic architecture of the cathedral.
A serene image capturing Notre Dame Cathedral at sunset. The golden hue of the setting sun highlights the intricate facade and twin bell towers of the cathedral, contrasting beautifully with the soft blue sky. The Seine River in the foreground reflects the warm colors, enhancing the peaceful yet majestic atmosphere of this historic landmark.

Afternoon 

Montmartre

From Notre Dame, you should go check out the charming neighborhood of Montmartre.

You are going to want to take the metro, as walking would take an

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica sits on top of Montmartre hill and is really high up—about 200 meters above the river Seine.

From here, you can see all of Paris and its surrounding areas. It’s the second-most-visited spot in Paris after the Eiffel Tower and has some pretty cool history.

To reach the top from the base of the street, you’ll need to climb 270 stairs. But you can also jump on the trolley-like vehicle that takes you to the top of Montmartre, called the “Funiculaire de Montmartre.”

It can be quite crowded, but if you want to get a shot with no people, as I did, just position yourself at the edge of the stairs as I did below.

There must have been 200 people above me on the next level, but from this angle, you can’t see a thing!

White-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur.
A solo female traveler sits on the steps in front of the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris. The intricate white architecture of the basilica rises impressively behind her, under a clear sky.

To get to Montmartre from Norte Dame, you will need to either walk for an hour or take the metro line M4 for a 30-minute ride.

Montmartre is known for its artistic past, bohemian atmosphere, and picturesque streets. It’s a great place to explore and experience the artistic and cultural side of Paris.

If you are ready for lunch, a great restaurant for solo dining is Le Cabanon de la Butte.

  • A gourmet meal featuring trout topped with a tomato and lemon sauce, served alongside a glass of white wine, green beans, carrots, and mashed potatoes on a table with a red and white checkered tablecloth, embodying a classic Parisian dining experience.
  • The interior of a french restaurant.
  • Le cananon de la butte
  • picture of the bill at de la butte

I got the white fish, as pictured above, with a glass of French white wine!

If you are vegetarian or vegan, this place might not work for you. Instead try, Uban Greener!

Père Lachaise Cemetery

After lunch, take the Metro line (2) for 30 minutes to the Père Lachaise Cemetery, it is the Père Lachaise stop, and exit the metro via 1. Bd de Ménilmontant.

Alternatively, you can walk to Père Lachaise Cemetery in one hour or a short taxi ride.

Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world and serves as the final resting place for many notable figures, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Frédéric Chopin.

  • Grave of Jim Morrison
  • he tomb features a modernist angel sculpture leaning sorrowfully on a stone.
    Grave of Oscar Wilde
  • A serene pathway through a historic Parisian cemetery, featuring ornate family mausoleums and vibrant green trees, reflecting the peaceful and solemn atmosphere of the site.

Evening 

Moulin Rouge

If this is your first time in Paris, and you have never seen the Moulin Rouge show, I highly recommend going alone!

I promise you won’t be bored, and it’s really one of those once-in-a-lifetime things to do.

​You can opt out of dinner at the Moulin Rouge, but I suggest out of convenience since most restaurants don’t open till 7 pm and that is when the show starts.

It was not the best meal I’ve ever had, but it was totally enjoyable. 

PRO Tip: When you are leaving the Moulin Rouge alone after the show, I recommend you consider getting an Uber home to your hotel. The neighborhood is a little less safe late at night.

The exterior of the famous Moulin Rouge Theatre
The iconic Moulin Rouge lit up at dusk, showcasing its famous red windmill against a twilight sky, with people walking and cars driving by, capturing the vibrant nightlife of Paris.

If a night at the theatre is out of your budget or just not your thing, you might enjoy a swing through the spookier side of the capital with one of these Paris ghost tours.

Day 3- Paris Itinerary

Morning 

Kick off your last day with breakfast at the delightful Café Le Carré Élysée, just a 9-minute walk from your first stop. Enjoy their tasty omelets, croissants, and more!

Petit Palais Museum

After breakfast, you will visit the Petit Palais in Paris. This magnificent museum showcases an impressive collection of fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The best part is that admission to the permanent collection is FREE!

I was so impressed with the grand facade, adorned with intricate details and sculptures, especially the Belle Époque architecture.

Inside, the museum’s vast galleries offer a journey through the works of renowned artists like Monet, Delacroix, and Rodin, among others.

From stunning Impressionist masterpieces to exquisite Art Nouveau artifacts, the Petit Palais presents a diverse array of artistic expressions.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the cafe and lovely outdoor seating area!

The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm daily except on Mondays.

The grand entrance of the Petit Palais, featuring ornate architectural details and sculptures, under a cloudy sky, with pedestrians and cyclists passing by, reflecting the cultural richness of Paris.
Up close statue in the Petit Palais.

Afternoon 

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

Once you’ve had enough time to visit the Petit Palais and take in its stunning art and architecture, it’s time to move on.

Head for a leisurely lunch at Le Sens Unique, known for its excellent and moderately priced French cuisine. It is only a 15-minute walk from the Petit Palais!

Once you’re satisfied, make your way to the Champs-Élysées. Stroll along this iconic avenue from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, passing by landmarks, boutiques, and cafes, ideal for post-lunch relaxation and window shopping.

Cap off your afternoon with a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, where go to the top to get a few snaps of the magnificent views!

NOTE: The Arc de Triomphe is open daily from 10 AM to 10:15 PM.

Evening 

Rooftop Views From Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette is a super famous store in Paris where you can buy all sorts of fancy stuff. But it’s not just about shopping!

You absolutely have to go up to the rooftop because the view of the city is amazing. Seriously, you can’t leave Paris without visiting the rooftop at Galeries Lafayette!

A sweeping view from a rooftop in Paris, overlooking iconic cityscape elements including grand buildings and distant views of the Eiffel Tower, set against a dramatic cloudy sky. The scene captures the vast, dynamic architecture of Paris from an elevated perspective.
A breathtaking view inside Galeries Lafayette, showcasing its famed stained glass dome and opulent balconies. The golden decor and intricate details create a luxurious shopping environment, highlighted by the warm lighting and the bustling activity below.

Seine Riverbanks and City Lights

End your weekend with a leisurely stroll along the Seine Riverbanks. Take in the beauty of the illuminated city and iconic landmarks before bidding Paris adieu.

Have dinner in the Latin Quarter, a neighborhood with its bohemian vibes and intellectual legacy.

Most famously, it is home to the Sorbonne University and offers a delightful array of bookshops, cafes, and charming streets.

A serene river walk scene in Paris at sunset, showing the Seine River reflecting the orange sky, with historical buildings lining the banks and people enjoying the peaceful evening.
A breathtaking evening view of Paris from a riverside perspective. The sunset casts a warm glow over the city, illuminating the Seine River and the silhouettes of historical buildings. The Eiffel Tower in the distance is lit up, providing a striking contrast against the twilight sky, capturing the romantic essence of Paris at night.

A great place for dinner is Hébé! They offer a three-course menu for both vegetarians and meat eaters. I found the food to be delicious and the prices reasonable, considering Paris is so expensive!

An intimate dining scene featuring deep-fried gourmet bites with dipping sauces on a ceramic plate, focused sharply in the foreground. A glass of rosé wine adds a touch of elegance to the relaxed ambiance of the restaurant, with blurred background details creating a cozy dining atmosphere.
A view inside Hébé restaurant in Paris, characterized by its modern yet welcoming design. The dining area is calm with natural wood furniture, terrazzo flooring, and stylish globe lighting, ready to host diners in a casual, chic setting.

An Alternative Last Day in Paris

Palace of Versailles

The best way to end your solo trip to Paris is with a day trip; consider visiting the Palace of Versailles! Since you are alone, I recommend going on an organized tour to make things easier. This tour will take the majority of your last day, but well worth it!

Is the City of Paris Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Paris is generally considered safe for solo travelers, and I didn’t feel unsafe at any time.

If you are wondering how to travel alone in Paris, just behave like you would in any major city.

You know the drill: exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

It’s those crowded tourist areas and public transportation that you want to be mindful of. 

As long as you use common sense and stick to well-lit and populated areas you will be fine. Leave the valuable items at home and be cautious of pickpockets.

My best advice is don’t make yourself stand out and carry flashy items such as high-end designer bags like Louis Vuitton when you are walking around in a city you aren’t familiar with.

It is a good idea to be understated rather than attract attention. 

Solo Travel Tips For Paris

Before I wrap up this weekend’s guide for traveling alone to Paris, I wanted to leave you with some helpful tips:

  1. Safety first: Paris is generally a safe city, but like any major city, there are some areas of Paris best to stay from. The neighborhoods to avoid in Paris are the 10th, 18th, and 19th arrondissements. Learn more on Numebo.
  2. Learn some basic French: While many Parisians speak English, making an effort to speak a few basic French phrases can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture. Simple greetings like “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) can make a positive impression.
  3. Choose accommodation wisely: Pick a centrally located and safe neighborhood to stay in. Popular areas for solo travelers include Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Montmartre. Consider staying in a reputable hostel or a well-reviewed hotel to meet fellow solo travelers and potentially make some friends.
  4. Take guided tours: Best tip for solo travel in any city is to participate in guided tours, whether they are walking tours, museum tours, or food tours. Not only will you learn more about the city’s history and culture, but you’ll also have the chance to meet other travelers and share experiences.
  5. Stay connected: Having a mobile data plan or a portable Wi-Fi device can be beneficial for staying connected with maps, translation apps, and online resources while exploring the city.

Emily in Paris Tours

Powered by GetYourGuide

Need Help Planning Your Itinerary?

This itinerary should hopefully answer any questions about what to do for a 3 days solo in Paris!

But if you find yourself with more time, there are a lot of day trips you can take by train from Paris to nearby cities!

One of my favorite day trips was to Mont Saint Michel!

I am happy to answer any travel planning questions you may have! Feel free to customize this itinerary to match your interests and preferences.

This way, you can create a truly unique and memorable Parisian adventure.

Travel Planning Resources for France

  • A lively group of travelers poses joyfully in front of ancient Greek ruins under a vibrant blue sky. Their energy and smiles reflect the excitement of exploring historical landmarks together.

Join the Community

Looking For A Women Only Solo Travel Community?

A Solo Woman Traveling is all about making connections! There is something here for everyone, whether you are just getting started or consider yourself a veteran solo traveler.

Find support, inspiration, and friendship by joining our community!

Melissa Byron

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder of A Solo Woman Traveling. After visiting 40+ countries solo, she creates trusted guides, itineraries, and women-only small-group tours in Europe for solo female travelers.

Related Posts