Paris is a city that is often associated with luxury, fine dining, and high fashion. However, there are plenty of free activities allowing you to enjoy Paris on a budget.
If you’re looking for ways to save money on your next trip to Paris, here are some amazing activities that you can enjoy without breaking the bank.
Paris on a Budget #1 Eiffel Tower Paris
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic attractions. Although it costs to take the elevator or climb the stairs to reach the top, but simply admiring the tower from the Champ de Mars park is entirely free!
Champ de Mars park is a popular destination for picnics, leisurely walks, and relaxing afternoons. It’s a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of Paris.
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Cheap Travel Paris #2 El Louvre Museum & Others
Another popular option is to visit the famous Louvre Museum On the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m. (except in July and August). It’s a great opportunity to see some of the world’s most famous works of art without having to spend a dime. Admission for Under 18s (Proof of ID required) and EU citizens under the age of 26 (Proof of ID and residency required). More info here.
Free Admission to Museums Every Sunday in Paris
- Carnavalet Museum (History of Paris)
- Modern Art Museum City of Paris
- Musee Cernuschi
- Petit Palais
- Photography gallery of Centre Pompidou
- Musée de Montmartre
Free Admission to Museums on the First Sunday of Every Month
- National Modern art Museum – Pompidou Centre
- Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac
- Rodin Museum
- Orangerie Museum
- Orsay Museum
- Museum des Arts et Métiers
- Museum de la Chasse et de la Nature
- Museum national Eugène Delacroix
- Museum national Gustave Moreau
- Museum national Jean-Jacques Henner
- Cluny Museum – National Museum of the Middle Ages
- Musée national Picasso
- City of Architecture and Heritage
- Musée national de l’histoire de l’immigration
- Guimet Museum
- Maison Européenne de la Photographie
- Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
#3 Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
Finally, for those who love history, a visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must. Although the inside of the cathedral is not free to enter, simply admiring the stunning Gothic architecture from the outside is a wonderful experience in itself.
One of the most iconic landmarks in the city, it is located on the Île de la Cité in the fourth arrondissement. The construction of the cathedral began in 1163 and was completed nearly two centuries later in 1345.
The cathedral houses many significant relics, including the Crown of Thorns, which is believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.
In 2019, the world watched in horror as a devastating fire broke out at Notre-Dame Cathedral, causing significant damage to the structure and destroying the spire. However, thanks to the quick actions of firefighters and the dedication of restoration experts, the cathedral is now undergoing extensive repairs and is set to be restored to its former glory in the coming years.
Shakespeare & Co. – A Bookstore in Paris
Another thing to do in this area is to visit one of the world’s most iconic bookshops i.e. SHAKESPEARE & CO. Located near the Notre Dame Cathedral. This bookshop has been featured in popular films such as Before Sunset and Midnight in Paris.
#4 Sacré-Coeur: The Basilica of the sacred heart of Paris
Enjoy the epic view from Sacré-Coeur (the highest point of the city) and don’t forget to visit the Basilica Sacré-Coeur. The basilica boasts one of the largest organs in Europe and hosts regular concerts. It is a place of worship and pilgrimage for many Catholics worldwide, and admission is free.
The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur is a famous monument in Paris, located on Montmartre hill. Construction of the white stone church decorated with blue-green ceramic mosaics began in 1875 and was completed in 1914. Visitors can climb the stairs to reach the dome and enjoy stunning views of the city.
#5 Seine River Paris France
If you’re looking for a more low-key activity, taking a stroll along the Seine River is a great option. The river is lined with historic bridges, stunning architecture, and quaint cafes. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the views.
A sunset picnic next to the Seine. Pick up a bottle of French wine and some croissants or pastries from a nearby bakery, and you’re all set!
Paris on a budget #6 Arc de Triomphe Paris
Take a leisurely walk from CHAMPS-ÉLYSÉES to the Arc de Triomphe and continue on to the Place de la Concorde.
The Arc de Triomphe offers panoramic views of the city and other landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. Visitors can enjoy the views and take photos booking Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets, making it a must-see for those looking for budget-friendly ways to explore Paris.
#7 Rue Crémieux
Explore Rue Crémieux, also known as the Rainbow Road is located in the12th arrondissement. This street boasts some of the most picturesque and unique houses in Paris, with their stunning pastel colours. It’s the ideal spot to capture some breathtaking photographs!
#8 Montmarte Hill
Montmarte is a famous district of Paris, located on a hill in the 18th arrondissement. This neighbourhood is known for its cobblestone streets, bustling cafes, panoramic city views and of course, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
The Montmartre district was once an independent village before becoming a district of Paris in the 19th century. Artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet lived and worked in this bohemian neighbourhood, which continues to inspire artists around the world.
Montmartre is also famous for its Moulin Rouge, an iconic cabaret that attracts audiences from around the world for its dance and music performances.
#9 GALLERIES LAFAYETTE
GALLERIES LAFAYETTE is one of the most famous department stores in Paris, and while it might not be the most affordable option, it’s definitely worth a visit. especially during Christmas when the stores are adorned with stunning decorations that are sure to leave you in awe!
#10 City’s Parks and Gardens
Another great free activity is to visit some of the City’s PARKS AND GARDENS. The Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries Gardens are beautiful places to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can also visit the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, which has a stunning lake and waterfall.
#11 Free Concerts and Events
Why not attend some FREE CONCERTS AND EVENTS throughout the city. There are always plenty of free concerts and events taking place throughout the city. Whether you’re interested in classical music, jazz, rock, or electronic music, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Check out the Paris Tourist Office website for a list of upcoming events and performances.
Some of the most popular free concerts in Paris are held in public parks and gardens during the summer months. The Parc de la Villette, for example, hosts a series of outdoor concerts and movie screenings from June through September. Other popular venues include the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
In addition to music events, there are also plenty of free cultural events and festivals to explore in Paris. The Fête de la Musique is a city-wide celebration of music that takes place every year on June 21st, while the Nuit Blanche or White Night is a free festival of arts that takes place the first Saturday of October. The idea was first introduced by the mayor of Paris Bertrand Delanoë in 2002. Since then, Nuit Blanche has spread over ten cities in Europe and over the ocean, to Montreal, Buenos Aires and Kyoto.
Instagram Reels – How to travel cheap in Paris
- Exploring Paris on a Budget: Part 1
- Exploring Paris on a Budget: Part 2
- Exploring Paris on a Budget: Part 3
More Paris Budget Tips!
Exploring Paris on a budget is possible by booking flights and accommodations in advance, staying in budget-friendly areas, using the city’s public transportation system, and eating where locals do. This can help save money without sacrificing a memorable trip to the beautiful city.
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