Paris 3-day itinerary
France
Where to go and what to see in Paris – a 3-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Anna Brooke.
Bucket list experience:
This ornate, 50m-high arch is an iconic Parisian landmark, situated at the heart of 12 avenues that branch out from it like the spokes of a wheel.
The Arc was commissioned by Napoleon to honour all those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars – the names of all French victories and generals are inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces, and an eternal flame burns in memory of the unknown soldier of World War I (whose tomb lies beneath the arch).
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France
Where to go and what to see in Paris – a 3-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Anna Brooke.
France
Where to go and what to see in Paris – a 6-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Anna Brooke.
Access the arch via the pedestrian tunnel which runs beneath the chaotic roundabout surrounding Place Charles de Gaulle. There are stairs to a small museum and viewing platform at the top of the arch, offering a great view of the city.
Book tickets on the website well ahead of time, as tickets for the roof terrace are limited.
The Arc is open all year round, seven days a week, except on days of major ceremonies.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Soak up the buzz at design legend Philippe Starck’s gloriously decadent take on a grand palace hotel – in a very convenient location for seeing the sights.
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Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Experience a truly imperial lifestyle in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte (Napoleon’s great nephew), with unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower.
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Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Live out your country house fantasies at this delightfully eccentric, handsomely revamped chateau hotel in a smart western suburb of the city.
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Paris, Ile-de-France, France
A legendary Paris grande dame hotel and altar to old-school opulence, at the historical heart of the city.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Ile-de-France, France
Crammed with iconic buildings, world-class art and a culinary scene steeped in history, Paris is one of the world’s great capitals, overflowing with style, romance, and art de vivre.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Paris’ palatial Modern art museum, home to a vast collection of 20th-century works by world-famous artists like Dufy, Matisse & Picasso.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Superb 19th-century collection of Italian Renaissance masterpieces, French portraiture and decorative arts.
Best for ages: Any | £15
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Fascinating primal art and indigenous artefacts from all over the globe, theatrically presented in Jean Nouvel’s striking modern building.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10
Paris, Ile-de-France, United Kingdom (UK)
Gustave Eiffel’s eccentric, iron-clad tower built as a temporary exhibit for the World Fair in 1889, has views all over the city and has become iconic symbol of Paris.
Best for ages: 4+ | £23
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
World-class food and unrivalled Paris views at Michelin-starred Frederic Anton’s daring restaurant on the Eiffel Tower’s second level.
Best for ages: 12+ | £120
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
One of Paris’ main museums for Contemporary & Historical art exhibitions, set in a stunning avant-garde silver and glass structure designed by Frank Gehry.
Best for ages: 18+ | £16
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
A long-running, extravagant, colourful cabaret featuring dancers and courtesans has been thrilling Parisian audiences since 1889. See the incomparable Can Can – the enigmatic dance that’s its greatest claim to fame.
Best for ages: 10+ | £74 | 2-4 hours
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
This museum in the Montmartre neighbourhood is dedicated to the surrealist Salvador Dali, displaying over 300 of his works. Dali lived and painted in Paris for many years.
Best for ages: 18+ | £8