The French Capital in a Nutshell: 24 Hours in Paris
TRAVEL DATE: MARCH 2023 + APRIL 2024 + JULY 2024 | EST. READING TIME: 9 MIN
IN THIS GUIDE ✺
So you find yourself in Paris for just one day and you want to make the most of it?
Maybe you're staying in London and decided to take a spontaneous day trip to Paris, France. Or you have a long layover in the Charles de Gaulle airport. Or you’re studying abroad and have to maximize your weekend trips! Whatever the reason, you've got one day to make the City of Love count.
Traveling from London, my best friend and I decided to take the Chunnel to Paris because it's cost-effective, but also because, who wouldn't want to say they've traveled through the bottom of the English Channel?
24 Hours in Paris Itinerary
In a hurry? Here’s a time-stamped overview of how to spend 24 hours in Paris:
6:01 - 9:30 AM: 🚆 London to Paris transit via the Eurostar train service (2 hr 29 min)
9:45 - 9:55 AM: ⛪ Admire the glistening white Sacré-Cœur façade (10 min)
10:00 - 11:30 AM: 🎨 Brunch at Au Cadet de Gascogne in Montmartre, the bohemian district (1 hr 30 min)
11:50 AM - 12:00 PM: 🙏 Snap a photo of Notre-Dame while the interior is under construction (10 min)
12:10 - 12:35 PM: 📚 Curl up with a good book in Shakespeare and Company (25 min)
12:35 - 1:45 PM: 🛍️ Stroll down the Latin Quarter and shop on St. Germain (1 hr 10 min)
1:50 - 2:20 PM: 🥖 Snack on a baguette under the Eiffel Tower (30 min)
2:30 - 2:40 PM: 🇫🇷 Circle the Arc de Triomphe roundabout (10 min)
2:40 - 3:25 PM: 🌳 Walk back down the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Élysées (45 min)
3:25 - 3:45 PM: 💐 Smell the flowers around Tuileries Garden (20 min)
4:00 - 6:00 PM: 🖼️ Spot the Mona Lisa inside the Louvre (2 hr)
6:30 - 8:30 PM: 🥗 Enjoy a one Michelin star Mediterranean meal at Mavrommatis (2 hr)
9:11 - 10:30 PM: 🚉 Paris to London transit via the Eurostar train service (2 hr 19 min)
How to Get from London to Paris?
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FROM: London St Pancras International (6:01 AM BST) (Euston Rd., London N1C 4QP, United Kingdom)
TO: Paris Gare du Nord (9:30 AM CET) (18 Rue de Dunkerque, 75010 Paris, France)
TRANSPORTATION: Eurostar train service via Trainline (2 hr 29 min, direct route, $104)
To make the most of our time when visiting Paris, France for a day, we woke up at the crack of dawn, catching the Eurostar from London St Pancras Int’l to Paris Gare du Nord at 6:01 AM. The journey offers a perfect opportunity to grab some much-needed sleep or catch up on work. I brought an eye mask, but actually falling asleep was much easier said than done. The train offers food, drinks, chargers – basically everything you need to enjoy the ride, and the roomy seats are much more comfortable than a cramped flight. Plus, you can sidestep all the airport hassles!
The ride is a breezy two and a half hours, but there's a time change to consider, so you'll roll into Paris around 9:30 AM. Our roundtrip tickets cost $104 total, but be sure to check all the requirements, especially the recommended station arrival time.
Arriving at the train station just 10 minutes before the departure time (like we did) is highly discouraged – you'll need to go through passport control since you're crossing country borders. We talked our way onto the train, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
What to Do With 24 Hours in Paris?
FROM: Gare du Nord (18 Rue de Dunkerque, 75010 Paris, France)
TO: Sacré-Cœur (35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France)
TRANSPORTATION: Gare du Nord → Château Rouge via Métro 4 (3 min, 2 stops, €2.15)
Once you're in Paris, your commute isn’t over yet. You'll need to walk outside the train and hop on the Metro at the Gare du Nord station, riding to the Château Rouge stop via Line 4. Planning your route will help ensure you catch the right train, especially if this transit system is new to you and you don’t speak French. Once you get off the train, walk 10 minutes west to reach Sacré-Cœur. You could also do the 20-minute walk yourself and skip the Metro.
Sacré-Cœur
This Roman-Byzantine style white church overlooks the city from 130 meters above the ground, adorned with thousands of love locks on the handrails.
The view from this elevated point is breathtaking, especially for panoramic photos. You can spot the Eiffel Tower in the distance, and you'll realize it's not as tall as it seems up close amidst the grandeur of Paris.
Montmartre
When you’re like okayyy let’s go, take a quick 5-minute walk to Montmartre, the bohemian district of Paris. At this wee hour of the morning, you'll see older gentlemen setting up their paint easels in the open terrace. Place du Tertre is the heart of local artisans, and if you're a fan of collecting unique paintings from your travels, Montmartre is the place to be. It may be a bit touristy, but it's definitely worth exploring, especially if it's your first time in Paris!
Brunch — Au Cadet De Gascogne
Around 10 AM, you might not be in the mood for breakfast—but when in Paris—you have to try escargot. Yes, I'm talking about snails! I dined at Au Cadet de Gascogne and paired my snails with beef stew for the ultimate French brunch experience. It's a delightful spot with outdoor seating that allows you to watch the artists at work, and the escargot, sizzling in butter and garlic, is a must-try. The friendly waitstaff even tried to strike up a conversation with us in French (which was the biggest compliment ever that she didn’t immediately know we were American!).
Notre-Dame
FROM: Au Cadet de Gascogne (4 Pl. du Tertre, 75018 Paris, France)
TO: Notre-Dame (6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France)
TRANSPORTATION: Château Rouge → Châtelet via Métro 4 (11 min, 3 stops, €2.15)
Lace up your walking shoes because the rest of your day will be a trek through the city. From Montmartre, we took the Metro towards the 4th arrondissement. If you're a baguette lover (who isn't?), my best friend recommended a great bakery near this Metro entrance – we didn't stop here, but she was referring to Paris Baguette Châtelet.
The Metro ride offers an opportunity for a quick snack, and soon after arriving you'll walk another few minutes towards the famous medieval Catholic cathedral, Notre-Dame.
Though this UNESCO World Heritage Site is recognized for its architectural, historical, and cultural significance, it's not as massive as it once was due to a catastrophic fire in April 2019. Take some pictures from the outside (it’s temporarily closed until December 2024).
Shakespeare and Company
Make your way across the Seine to Shakespeare and Company, a historic bookstore where iconic writers of the “Lost Generation” gathered. Photography within the shop is discouraged to give privacy to readers, so you’ll have to go inside yourself to see the interior! The shop is a haven for book lovers with antique novels and cozy corners for curling up and reading – an ideal escape to take reprieve in during this long travel day (even though there's typically a bit of a wait to get inside).
If the line looks intimidating and you don’t have the time or patience to wait, consider checking out the bouquinistes, or green book seller stands lining the Siene! A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, inside the 900 or so riverside book boxes you’ll find rare and used novels, posters, modern illustrations, postcards and other printed materials alongside souvenirs for you to peruse!
Latin Quarter
We continued through the Latin Quarter and strolled by the high-end shops of St. Germain, all while heading towards our intended destination of the iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower.
Snack - La Parisienne
It was here where we stopped to grab the essentials (baguettes), which we planned to later devour in front of the Eiffel Tower. We stopped at La Parisienne (named for the best baguette in 2016!) at 85 Rue Saint Dominique, and the warm baguettes were crunchy and pulled fresh out of the oven–everything we could have hoped for.
From there, it's just a 15-minute walk to the tower. Walk down Rue De Monttessuy for a chance to snap a photo with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop and your baguette-child cradled under your arm.
Don't hesitate to shop at the numerous gift stores along the way. And hey, it's the perfect time to embrace your tourist status – buy a blue beret, why not?
Eiffel Tower
Now, you're at the Eiffel Tower. Find a bench, sit down, savor your baguette, and admire this architectural marvel. It was built in the late 19th century, and even without delving into its history, it's an awe-inspiring structure.
Pair your bread with a cold, crisp Coca-Cola from one of the many vendors in the park. Take your time: this is one of the world's most iconic landmarks.
Arc de Triomphe
FROM: Eiffel Tower (Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France)
TO: Arc de Triomphe (Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France)
TRANSPORTATION: Taxi or rideshare (7 min, ~€10)
From here, we took a 7 minute taxi to the Arc de Triomphe to take in the sights of yet another architectural marvel. This monument symbolizes French national pride and victory, honoring those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
Tuileries Garden
Continuing down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées for 40 minutes (otherwise known as ‘the world’s most beautiful avenue’), will take you along the Seine to the Tuileries Garden. The meticulously manicured lawns, elegant tree-lined avenues, and stunning fountains are classic examples of French formal garden design, originally created for the royal residence of French monarchs.
Musée du Louvre
Adjacent to the Tuileries Garden, is the Musée du Louvre, where you can see the one and only Mona Lisa.
We had a 4 p.m. reservation at the Louvre with tickets costing €17 each, but even with a ticket there’s still a substantial line you have to wait in outside the museum. Arrive early to ensure you can get inside on time.
Even with this brilliant, time-stamped plan in hand, the 2023 French pension protest promptly shut down all railways, which meant there was no train running to take us back to where we came from. Missing our Louvre visit, we scrambled to book the next available flight back to London to avoid getting stuck in the city altogether!
Feeling emo about not seeing the Mona Lisa, I consoled myself with a macaron at the Ladurée shop in the airport. But you don't have to suffer the same fate; you can find these delectable treats at various spots in the city–there’s even a Ladurée below the Louvre.
For a sweet treat experience that transcends the ordinary, consider Cedric Grolet's Bakery. If you haven't seen him on TikTok, he's a pastry wizard who turns fresh fruit into desserts that look just like the real thing. He's also famous for his buttery croissants, and basically everything he makes is mind-blowing!
Dinner - Mavrommatis
FROM: Ladurée (99 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France)
TO: Mavrommatis (42 Rue Daubenton, Paris, 75005, France)
TRANSPORTATION: Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre → Censier-Daubenton via Métro 7 (11 min, 7 stops, €2.15)
If you only have a single day to spend in Paris, you have to go all out—and by all out I mean indulging in a one Michelin star meal at Mavrommatis. After being awarded a Michelin star in 2018 from the French company for their distinguished, high-quality concoctions, the Cypriot chef Mavrommatis brothers continue an enchanted Mediterranean interlude in the heart of the capital from 7:00 - 10:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday every week.
During the evening, you’ll be seated in a minimalist private lounge, an understated lair which serves as the perfect foil to food that varies according to the season and whims of the chef. The delightful secret of fine dining is that you’re often served more courses than your selected offering actually enumerates on the menu—I tried the “five act” Discovery menu which truly amounted to eight courses including the amuse bouche, additional starter, and extra dessert.
While €110 for a dinner is quite pricey, I felt much better about this splurge when I realized this total only amounts to about €14 per dish, and I certainly left the restaurant stuffed! Although the breathtaking presentation of each dish deserves distinct recognition in itself, the masterfully creative preparations are truly what make this establishment special. I can certainly say I’ve never enjoyed a precisely layered watermelon and feta sandwich anywhere else before, let alone a faux cherry tomato bursting with sorbet!
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The benchmark for Hellenic gastronomy in Paris since 1993, each dish from the three available tasting menus is inspired by classic Gallic traditions and uses the best Greek ingredients prepared with the techniques of French cuisine in this global culinary adventure. Among other surprises, you can expect ingredients like sauce vierge, Volos olives, ewe's-milk yoghurt jus, and feta crumble topping each of the artfully plated offerings entailing dishes such as roasted line-caught sea bass, cockles, carabineros, and chanterelle mushrooms.
Note that à la carte dishes are only available for dinner from Tuesday through Thursday, so prepare your appetite for a multi-course meal if you’re dining during the weekend!
For refined cuisine on a tighter budget, check out Le Christine in the 6th instead, which is similarly featured on the Michelin Guide but without a formal star designation.
After this life-changing meal, head to the train station or airport to catch your ride home, which concludes your whirlwind adventure in Paris. Enjoy your spontaneous day – it's a memory you'll cherish for a lifetime!
How Much Does One Day in Paris Cost?
If you’re spending only 24 hours in Paris you’re in luck — you don’t have to pay for a hotel room! Following the above itinerary cost me $354.27 as a young college student on a budget:
Transportation
$104 - Eurostar round trip train ticket between London and Paris
€4.20 - two Metro one-way tickets to Montmartre and then the Notre-Dame
€10 - taxi ride from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe
Food
€32 - escargot and beef stew breakfast at Au Cadet de Gascogne
€4 - baguette, water, and a can of Coca-Cola from La Parisienne
€110 - Discovery menu five-course tasting at Mavrommatis
Activities
€17 - single admission Louvre ticket
Souvenirs
€20 - small painting from Montmartre
€5 - blue beret
$31 - 8 macron-box from Laudrée
Of course, if you’re already in Paris you can forgo the train ticket. If you’re on a tighter budget, consider opting for one smaller souvenir—and you certainly don’t need to splurge on a Michelin star meal (but it’s more fun if you do!).
Assuming you don’t find yourself in the middle of a transportation strike, you’ll also want to factor in the cost of your dinner, plus your transport back to the train station.
What to Wear in Paris?
Paris fashion screams sophistication and class — get inspired to embody haute couture like you’re walking in Paris Fashion Week! Here less is more and elegance is all in the details. Whether you’re strolling through the Tuileries Garden, visiting the Musée d'Orsay, or enjoying a café au lait at a Champs-Élysées café, your thoughtfully curated ensemble will ensure you do so with stylish grace and style.
Regardless of personal aesthetic or budget, anyone can style a classic black and white ensemble: think old money chic, timeless wardrobe staples that exude effortless taste, and clean lines from well-tailored silhouettes. These pieces can easily transition from daytime sightseeing to evening dining, embodying the versatility that Parisians are known for. Choosing neutral colors like black, white, and beige ensures your look will be sophisticated while easy to mix and match. Footwear is crucial in Paris—where walking is a way of life—while accessorizing with luxurious pieces will complete your look with an added hint of mystery and glamour. Look to achieve a balanced and refined appearance without wearing overly flashy items—instead focus on quality fabrics and impeccable tailoring. Pull these pieces from your closet to craft the perfect outfit when planning a trip to Paris:
Timeless Tops
craft a timeless silhouette with cuts that won’t go out of style — tuxedo vests, corset bustiers, and staple tanks
Basic Bottoms
don’t overcomplicate things with silk skirts, pleated trousers, and flowy culottes that are simple yet sophisticated
Dainty Dresses
think easy, breezy, beautiful (CoverGirl!) — spaghetti straps, tulle, and simplicity are key
Jet Black Flats
ballet slippers, Mary Janes, and slingback kitten heels will keep your feet from aching through each arrondissement
Luxe Accessories
chunky gold jewelry and a dainty handbag make your outfit feel as luxurious as a Palace of Versailles princess
Fine Fabric Accents
silk ribbons, lace bows, and rose appliqué— pull in pops of jewel tones like ruby to exude old money elegance
Is Paris Overrated?
All in all, my initial 24 hours in Paris experience was a little underwhelming, but that’s not to say I don’t plan to go back. The strike severely soured our experience, leading to mountains of stinky trash on the street and last minute transportation cancellations which cut our one day stay short. I find the most rewarding travel experiences to be those which forge unlikely friendships through group excursions and activities; yet, this itinerary for a single day in Paris was moreso geared towards sightseeing to look at famous structures. BUT on the other hand, how could you go to Paris and not see the Eiffel Tower?! It almost feels sacrilegious.
That being said, I think at least one more day is required to have a rewarding Parisian experience, so I’ll have to revisit this ranking once Paris gives me that chance. Out of the 13 countries I’ve visited as of March 2023, I’m ranking France a tentative #6 for now—but there’s still SO MUCH of the country I have left to hit, so take this assessment lightly.
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Hi, I’m Ashley. I’m determined to see the world. All of it. Are you coming with?
While I respect the digital nomads, van life, and the hardcore backpackers—that’s just not me.
I’m convinced I can travel and keep my job.
It’ll take a lifetime, but I’m going to make it to all 195 countries before my time is up—and I’m taking you along for the ride!
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