nancymath

Arriving in Paris from London for a 2 night stay. We are staying in apartment near the Ecole Militaire Metro stop. 3 adults traveling. Trying to decide what to see. Is trying to fit in Versailles too much in such a short time? What are some moderate paced itineraries?

Ackislander

Yes.

sparkchaser

Depending on the time of the year, strolling through Sainte Chappel, Notre Dame, and exploring the rest of the island may eat up the better part of a day. Add in the Eiffel Tower and surrounds and the whole day is practically gone.

I'm sure some of the more experienced Paris visitors can come up with an itinerary that won't leave you exhausted.

Southam

You don't say how or when you arrive in Paris, but a two-night stay means barely two days on the ground depending on travel arrangements. If you go to Versailles, taking up most of a day, you have very little time left. This website's Destinations section discusses lots of Paris pleasures; you might as well choose one or two at random.

sparkchaser

Good point Southam. All we know is that they have one full day.

mamcalice

Do you have 2 full days in Paris? On your first full day, visit Sainte Chapelle, Notre Dame and the Musee Rodin (which is not too far from your apartment). In the evening, take a Seine river cruise on the Vedettes du Pont Neuf. On your second full day visit either the Louvre or the Musee D'Orsay. Then visit the Eiffel Tower. If you have time visit Napoleon's Tomb or walk in the Luxembourg Gardens.

No time for Versailles. Two days is an unfortunately short time for Paris. The above suggestion is what I would do with 2 days. Almost everyone will have different suggestions.

nancymath

We will be arriving in London around noon on Friday. Then need to check into apt so really we only have one full day on saturday. After reading all these helpful comments I am thinking Versailles might be too much. I have heard how beautiful this city is so we want to be able to enjoy and not feel like we are rushing from one place to the next. What does anyone know about the boat tours at night. Best time to go.. Is it smart to buy tickets before etc? also what would be a great purchase to remember from Paris?

nancymath

Forgot to mention that dates traveling to Paris is this June 21-23

nyctraveler212

I believe Louvre is open late on Friday if you have the energy. I think late night for Orsay is Thursday. Also the Eiffel tower is quite splendid in the evening. Going up takes a long time, so you might just enjoy it from below. I think at least some nights Notre Dame also stays open late.
I would suggest Sainte Chapelle first thing in the morning, as the lines get long. For me looking at the stained glass is one of the best Paris experiences.
Versailles is too far and really takes a whole day.

Gretchen

Don't plan to go up the Tower.
NO Versailles.
Good restaurants in your apartment neighborhood. La Florimond just down the street from Ecole Metro. Make reservations.
Do the Seine cruise around 5PM and then have your reservations for dinner at 8. Buy tickets at the site--print the discount ticket online.

daniella82

I was recently in paris for a day (having been there a number of times) with a family member who had never been there. We did the Louvre, a boat ride along the Seine (you'll see some landmarks), had a nice lunch and saw the eiffel tower (but did not go up, or very close to it Those would be my highlights in a brief period. Versailles is beautiful, but more realistic if you have four days rather than two.

denisea

Definite;y skip Versailles this time; take a Seine cruise the night you come in. The next day pick 2-3 places you want to see...I wouldn't go up to the top of the ET as it will take too much time. You will see it plenty based on your location.

I did not care for Le Florimond but would suggest Reed instead or maybe a Constant restaurant.

You apt location is quite close to Rodin museum but there may be renovations going on there. Not sure what your interests are...D'Orsay and L'Orangerie? Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle, maybe?

leuk2

I'd try to go to the Eiffel tower,musee D'orsay and St. Chapelle. One of the pleasures of Paris is just walking around. forget about Versailles. Get a museum pass(so you don't have to stand in line), and if you walk by a place you'd like to see -go in. If you get tired walking around,stop at one of the many cafes.Sit outside,have a glass of wine, and watch the world go by.

cigalechanta

Why go to Versailles when in Paris for only a few days. Paris is more than a moveable feast, so many unique museums, boutiques, restaurants, beautiful parcs. One can never see all it's beauty and what it offers even in several visits.