How to Experience the Best of Paris in 24-48 Hours - Without Breaking the Bank
Last updated April 14, 2025 | By Mundiel Editors
Paris in spring is pure magic—cherry blossoms lining cobbled streets, café terraces buzzing with life, and golden light dancing on the Seine. And yes, it’s possible to soak up all this romance, indulge in gourmet dining, and check off iconic landmarks—all without blowing your budget. This itinerary shows you how to live the Parisian dream for less, blending free attractions, scenic strolls complete with a Michelin dinner and a hop-on hop-off bus tour that lets you explore at your own pace.
Day 1: Parisian Classics, Scenic Views & Affordable Indulgence
8:30 AM – Breakfast Like a Local
Breakfast at your hotel or start your day with a buttery croissant and coffee at a local boulangerie. Walk over to Place Dauphine or the Square du Vert-Galant find a bench for a breakfast with a view of the Seine river.
See: Getting Around Paris
Join a free walking tour of central Paris—many start near Notre-Dame Cathedral. Local guides take you through must-see spots like Saint-Michel, the Latin Quarter, and Île Saint-Louis, adding stories you’d never find in a guidebook. Just remember to tip (€5–€10 is appreciated).
12:00 PM – Picnic at the Eiffel Tower
Swing by a local market or a nearby Franprix or Monoprix to build your picnic: a crusty baguette, cheese, fruit, and sparkling water or a small bottle of wine. Head to Champ de Mars and enjoy lunch with a picture-perfect view of the Eiffel Tower.
Use the afternoon to relax while still sightseeing. Book a hop-on hop-off bus tour with Big Bus Paris (tickets from ~$49). These open-top buses take you across the city’s best sights—including Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Opéra Garnier, and Montmartre—with live or audio-guided commentary.
See: How to get to the nearest Big Bus Station from BW M-Treize Paris Hotel
Insider tip: Stay on for a full loop first, then hop off at your favorites later.
Get off the bus or Metro at Montmartre. Walk the cobbled streets, peek into art shops, explore Place du Tertre and climb the steps to Sacré-Cœur Basilica (Free). Sit on the steps and take in the city views as street musicians perform. The view over the rooftops of Paris at sunset is unforgettable.
7:30 PM – Dinner at a Michelin-rated Restaurant
Time to treat yourself without guilt. Head to Bouillon Pigalle – a Belle Époque-style restaurant — a Michelin-rated pick known for incredible French cuisine at affordable prices. [Menu]
Expect dishes like: French onion soup, Duck confit, Crème brûlée, Beef bourguignon, Escargots.
Day 2: Hidden Gems, Culture & Garden Strolls
8:30 AM – Canal-Side Coffee in Saint-Martin
Start your day with coffee from Du Pain et des Idées by Canal Saint-Martin—a quiet local gem that’s perfect in spring. Stroll the canal, watching locals play pétanque or picnic by the water.
Choose one of the following based on your interests and budget:
Musée d’Orsay: For lovers of Impressionism in a beautiful Beaux-Arts train station.
Musée Carnavalet: A lesser-known gem all about the history of Paris in Le Marais (Free)
Picasso Museum: If you’re into modern art
Grab a falafel sandwich from L’As du Fallafel, and enjoy it on a bench in Place des Vosges, the oldest planned and one of Paris’ most beautiful squares.
2:30 PM – Latin Quarter & Luxembourg Gardens
Head to the Latin Quarter, browse the shelves of Shakespeare & Company, and stroll through the grand Jardin du Luxembourg. Bring a book or snack and enjoy the relaxed local vibe.
5:00 PM – Sweet Crêpe Goodbye
Wrap up your Paris adventure with a stop at Crêperie Genia near Saint-Germain. A buckwheat galette or a sweet crêpe with Nutella or lemon sugar costs about – and tastes even better when eaten on the go.
Tips to Stretch Your Wallet Further
- Buy a Day Ticket for unlimited rides on Metro, Buses & Trams for 24 hours.
- Use the Big Bus app to track buses and listen to audio guides
- Water fountains: Refill your bottle at Wallace fountains or sparkling water fountains (yes, Paris has them!)
- Tap water is free at restaurants. Just ask for “une carafe d’eau”
- Use Free Public Toilets: They’re clean and available across the city
- Arrive early at popular spots for fewer crowds and better photo ops.
Final Thoughts
One or Two days in Paris isn’t enough to see it all—but with smart planning and a balance of indulgence and simplicity, you can experience the essence of the city. From riverside picnics and open-air bus rides to a Michelin meal, this spring getaway proves that Parisian magic doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.
