Paris is a city that effortlessly blends history, art, and joie de vivre. While first-time visitors often rush to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, those who want a more authentic experience should explore the city like a Parisian. This three-day itinerary balances cultural gems with local hangouts, ensuring you see the best of Paris without feeling like a tourist.
Day 1: Classic Paris with a Local Twist
Morning: Le Marais & Hidden Courtyards
Start your day in Le Marais, one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods. Skip the tourist-heavy spots and instead wander through its narrow streets, stopping at Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris. Grab a coffee at Boot Café, a tiny but beloved spot known for its excellent brews.
For a dose of history, visit the Musée Carnavalet, a free museum dedicated to Paris’s past. Then, explore hidden courtyards like Village Saint-Paul, a secret passage filled with antique shops and art galleries.
Afternoon: Lunch & Canal Saint-Martin
Head to Breizh Café for some of the best crêpes in town. Afterward, stroll along Canal Saint-Martin, a favorite spot for Parisians to picnic and relax. If the weather’s nice, grab a bottle of wine and some cheese from Fromagerie Goncourt and enjoy an impromptu waterside feast.
Evening: Sunset at Montmartre & Local Bistros
Instead of the crowded Sacré-Cœur steps, take a quieter route up Montmartre via Rue des Saules, passing by Clos Montmartre, the last vineyard in Paris. For dinner, book a table at Le Consulat, a historic bistro loved by artists. End the night with live jazz at La Machine du Moulin Rouge, a lively venue with an eclectic crowd.
Day 2: Art, Markets & Nightlife
Morning: Musée d’Orsay & Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Skip the Louvre’s long lines and head to Musée d’Orsay, home to stunning Impressionist masterpieces. Afterward, walk through Saint-Germain-des-Prés, stopping at Café de Flore for a classic Parisian coffee.
Afternoon: Marché d’Aligre & Belleville
For lunch, visit Marché d’Aligre, a bustling market where locals shop for fresh produce, cheese, and wine. Grab a bite at Le Baron Rouge, a tiny wine bar serving oysters and charcuterie.
Then, take the metro to Belleville, a multicultural neighborhood with street art, indie galleries, and a vibrant atmosphere. Walk up Rue Denoyez, where graffiti-covered walls make for great photos.
Evening: Dinner in Oberkampf & Nightlife
Dine at Le Chateaubriand, a Michelin-starred bistro with an inventive tasting menu. For drinks, explore Oberkampf, a lively district packed with bars. Try Le Comptoir Général, a quirky Afro-themed cocktail bar, or Le Perchoir, a rooftop spot with great views.
Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems
Morning: Butte-aux-Cailles & Street Art
Start in Butte-aux-Cailles, a village-like district with cobblestone streets and colorful murals. Grab breakfast at Les Papilles, a cozy café with homemade pastries.
Afternoon: Promenade Plantée & Latin Quarter
Walk along La Coulée Verte, an elevated park built on an old railway line—similar to NYC’s High Line but quieter. Then, head to the Latin Quarter for lunch at Bouillon Pigalle, a modern take on a traditional French bouillon (affordable, hearty meals).
Evening: Seine Picnic & Local Hangouts
End your trip with a picnic by the Seine near Pont des Arts (bring wine, cheese, and a baguette). For a final drink, visit Little Red Door, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar ranked among the world’s best.
Final Thoughts
By mixing classic sights with local favorites, this three-day itinerary lets you experience Paris like a true Parisian—full of art, food, and hidden gems. Whether you’re sipping wine by the canal or discovering street art in Belleville, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the City of Light.
Bon voyage!
