3 Days in Paris

Notre-Dame reopened in December 2024 after the 2019 fire. Expect a queue and check the cathedral's official site for how entry works.

Sainte-Chapelle's upper level is almost entirely stained glass — go on a sunny morning if you can, and book a timed slot.

After dinner, walk along the Seine as the lights come on.

Pick a few Louvre highlights: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the French painting galleries. A timed ticket booked in advance is strongly recommended.

Use the underground passage to reach the Arc de Triomphe — never try to cross the roundabout.

Book Eiffel Tower lift or stair tickets in advance, or enjoy it from the Champ de Mars. After dark the tower sparkles for a few minutes at the start of each hour; a Seine river cruise is another relaxed way to see it lit up.

Climb the hill or take the funicular. Look for the vineyard on Rue des Saules. Be wary of people offering “free” friendship bracelets at the foot of the hill.

Alternative — Versailles: spend the day at the Palace of Versailles (Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments, vast gardens), reachable by RER C and other trains. Book a timed ticket and check which day of the week the palace is closed.