Paris, the City of Light, is timeless, charming, and endlessly entertaining. If you’re planning a three-day mother-daughter trip to Paris, get ready for a whirlwind of shopping, dining, and unforgettable experiences. This guide will help you make the most of your Parisian adventure.
We had an amazing time; but 3 days seemed too short. However, we were able to pack in lots of sight-seeing. Visiting Paris with my daughter was the trip of a lifetime, and I will treasure this experience forever!
Day 1: Embrace Parisian Elegance
Morning: Arrive in Style
Start your Parisian adventure by checking into the charming Hôtel de la Trinité Haussmann. ( renamed Maison Pigalle) Nestled in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel offers a blend of modern comforts and classic French elegance. This amazing 4 star stay is in the district of rue Jean-Baptiste Pigalle. ( southwest Montmartre)
It’s the perfect base for your adventures, with its cozy rooms and prime location near iconic landmarks. It' also a very safe, walkable neighborhood. The metro station is a few blocks away, along with the famous cabaret "Moulin Rouge." We loved our stay at Hotel Trinite Hausmann , classy elegance without breaking the bank!
Late Morning: Stroll Through Le Marais
Take a leisurely stroll through the Le Marais district, one of Paris’s trendiest neighborhoods. With its narrow cobblestone streets and historic architecture, Le Marais is perfect for a morning stroll. Pop into quaint boutiques, stylish concept stores and the most charming cafés.
Be sure to check out the iconic Merci concept store for a mix of fashion, home decor, and a delightful café where you can grab a coffee and a pastry.
Afternoon: Louvre Love
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Louvre Museum. But don’t worry, you won’t be navigating this massive museum alone. With your pre-booked tickets, you’ll skip the long lines and dive straight into art history.
Marvel at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Remember, the Louvre is huge, so pace yourselves. After viewing the exquisite works of art; grab a quick snack in the museum’s café.
Evening: Dinner with a View
For dinner, head to Montmartre and dine at a classic French bistro. Le Relais Gascon offers hearty meals and a view of the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Enjoy traditional dishes like beef bourguignon or duck confit while soaking in the delights of Montmartre. After dinner, take a walk up to Sacré-Cœur for a panoramic view of Paris at night—it’s a magical way to end your first day.
Day 2: Shopping Spree and Culinary Delights
Morning: Shopping Extravaganza
Start your day with a shopping spree on the Champs-Élysées. From high-end boutiques to famous French stores like Louis Vuitton and Cartier, this iconic avenue is a shopping paradise. If you’re looking for something more eclectic, head to the Galeries Lafayette.
This historic department store is not just a shopping destination but an architectural marvel, complete with a stunning glass dome and an extensive selection of fashion and beauty products. Visiting Champs Elysees was a dream come true! There is everything to love about shopping and dining on this world famous street!
Afternoon: Lunch and Luxuriate
After a morning of shopping, treat yourselves to lunch at a charming Parisian café. Café de Flore is a historic spot where you can savor classic French fare like croque-monsieur or a fresh salad while watching the world go by.
After lunch, visit the nearby Luxembourg Gardens. Stroll through the beautifully manicured lawns, take a boat ride on the pond, or simply relax and people-watch in this serene oasis.
Late Afternoon: Chocolate and Macarons
No visit to Paris is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Head to Laduree Paris for exquisite macarons and pastries. The flavors are as unique as they are delicious, and you’ll likely want to try everything, ha!. Laduree has a cafe on the sidewalk, in front of the walk in shop. If you want the sit down experience, reservations are suggested.
Next, make your way to a renowned chocolatier like La Maison du Chocolate for some gourmet chocolates to take back home!
Evening: Seine River Cruise
For a scenic evening, embark on a Seine River cruise. Glide past illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Musée d'Orsay. Many cruise operators offer dinner options, but even a simple evening cruise provides a breathtaking view of Paris’s monuments. We purchased our tickets online at Get Your Guide; for a very reasonable fee.
The river cruise was the top attraction of our visit! This amazing experience of history, charm and excitement: is one you won't soon forget!
Day 3: Culture, History and Farewell
Morning: Eiffel Tower
Begin your final day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. We actually visited the day we arrived too. It was our first and last stop. Standing in front of this iconic structure was beyond amazing! The magnificence of this experience stays with you forever.
If you want to go inside - purchase your tickets months in advance. My daughter tried to get tickets before we arrived- the site was down. When we arrived to buy tickets; the line was a bazillion miles long. We did not get to go up!
There are several ideal photo locations for the tower. My daughter found a unique view spot for more photos. We had to take a long hike and steep stairs to get there. Check it out on my instagram!
Late Morning: Montmartre
Next, is a visit to one of the most popular and loved neighborhoods of Paris: Montmartre! The famous pink cafe "La Maison Rose" is a must see! If you plan to get [pictures without crowds, plan to arrive earlier in the day. We arrived around 10:30 a.m, and it was already packed with tourists and photographers!
Afternoon: Explore the Latin Quarter
Wander through the Latin Quarter, an area rich in history and vibrancy. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Panthéon, and check out the lively Place de la Contrescarpe. Stop by a local bookshop or boutique for a souvenir or two. For lunch, grab a bite at a local bistro and enjoy some people-watching over a delicious meal.
Late Afternoon: Final Stroll and Souvenirs
Before you bid adieu to Paris, take one last walk l through the charming streets of your favorite neighborhood. Visit a local market or boutique for final souvenirs, or enjoy a last coffee at a bakery café. The bakery cafes were our favorite stops for breakfast each morning. Reflect on your Parisian adventure and soak in the last moments of your mother-daughter trip.
Final Tips for Your Paris Adventure
Plan Ahead: Book tickets for popular attractions like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower in advance to avoid long lines.
Language Basics: While many people in Paris speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience and endear you to the locals.
Cash and Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
A three-day mother-daughter trip to Paris is a chance to bond over shared experiences, explore a world-renowned city, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With a mix of shopping, dining, and sightseeing your itinerary will be packed!
Buckle up, because Paris is about to become your new favorite destination!
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