It’s totally possible to visit Paris without spending a fortune. Here’s how you can save money on where you sleep, what you eat, how you get around, and what you see.
Where to Stay
When you’re looking for a place to sleep, hostels are your best friends. A bed in a dorm room will be the cheapest, but some hostels also have private rooms if you want more space. Prices change with the time of year.
If you’re with a few people or want to cook your own meals, try renting an apartment on sites like Airbnb. This can save you a lot on food.
Look for places to stay in areas like Montmartre, Belleville, or Bastille. These spots are a bit outside the main city center but still easy to reach by metro.
Booking early, especially for hostels or apartments, usually gets you better prices. You can also find simple, budget-friendly hotels like Ibis Budget if you just need a basic room.
What to Eat
Eating cheap in Paris is easy if you plan ahead!
Picnics are a must. Go to a supermarket like Monoprix or a local market. Grab some bread, cheese, meat, fruit, and a bottle of wine.
Then, find a nice park like the Champ de Mars (near the Eiffel Tower) or Luxembourg Gardens and enjoy your meal outdoors. It’s way cheaper than a restaurant.
Many restaurants offer special lunch menus called “formule midi” or “prix-fixe.” These are usually a set price for two or three courses and are much cheaper than dinner. Look for these signs outside bistros.
Don’t forget street food and bakeries. A croissant from a bakery is a cheap and tasty breakfast. You can also find cheap crepes or falafel (especially in the Marais area).
Try a “bouillon” restaurant like Bouillon Pigalle. They serve classic French dishes for very low prices in a fun, lively setting.
When you’re at a restaurant, always ask for “une carafe d’eau” (a jug of tap water). It’s free, unlike bottled water. Bread is usually free too.
How to Get Around?
Walk everywhere! Paris is a beautiful city to explore on foot. You’ll see so much just by walking.
For longer trips, use the metro, bus, or RER train. Don’t buy single tickets one by one. Get a carnet (a pack of 10 tickets) which is cheaper. You can load these onto a Navigo Easy card.
If you’re staying for a whole week (Monday to Sunday), the Navigo Découverte Pass is a fantastic deal. It covers all your travel and is super affordable. You’ll need a small photo for this.
To get from the airport, always take public transport instead of expensive taxis.
You can also try Vélib’, which are rental bikes. It’s a fun and cheap way to get around for shorter rides.
Things to See and Do
There are so many free or cheap things to do in Paris!
Free Museums: Many big museums, like the Louvre, are free on the first Sunday of the month, especially from October to March. Expect crowds, though.
Some city museums, like the Petit Palais, are free all the time. If you’re under 26 and from the EU, many national museums are free for you anytime!
Free Sights: Just walk around famous areas like Montmartre (for amazing views from Sacré-Cœur), Le Marais, or the Latin Quarter. Spend time in beautiful parks like Luxembourg Gardens. Walk along the Seine River – it’s stunning and free.
Look for “free” walking tours (it’s polite to give your guide a tip, though!). Most churches, like Sacré-Cœur, are free to enter.
If you plan to visit many paid museums, think about getting the Paris Museum Pass. It gives you free entry to lots of places and lets you skip lines, saving you time and money. Check if it’s worth it for what you want to see.
Save money at the Eiffel Tower by walking up the stairs to the second floor instead of taking the elevator all the way.
A Few More Tips:
- Try to visit in spring or fall. The weather is nice, and it’s less crowded than summer, which can mean slightly lower prices.
- Learn a few simple French words like “Hello” (Bonjour), “Thank you” (Merci), and “Please” (S’il vous plaît). People appreciate it!
- Bring a reusable bag for shopping, as stores often charge for plastic ones.
- Download useful apps like Citymapper to help you get around on public transport.
With these tips, you can enjoy all the magic of Paris without spending too much! What part of Paris are you most excited to see?
Accommodation: Finding Your Budget-Friendly Parisian Home
Okay, let’s talk about finding a great place to stay in Paris without emptying your wallet.
Hostels: Your Backpacking Best Friend
Hostels are often the top choice for saving money. They’re not just cheap; they’re also great for meeting other travelers. Look into popular places like St. Christopher’s Inn, Generator Hostel, or The People.
To get the best deals, always book your spot early. If you’d rather have your own space but still want hostel prices, some offer private rooms. Just make sure to read reviews to check on how clean the place is and if it’s in a good spot.
Budget Hotels: Comfort Without the Hefty Price Tag
If hostels aren’t your style, budget hotels offer a bit more comfort without breaking the bank. You can expect smaller rooms and fewer fancy extras compared to luxury hotels.
Chains like Ibis Budget are dependable for simple, clean rooms. Or, check out independent spots like Hotel Ami or Hotel Perreyve. You’ll often find better value in areas like the 9th, 15th, or 18th arrondissements.
When booking, always check how close it is to a Metro station, if breakfast is included, and if there’s air conditioning – especially important for summer trips!
Apartment Rentals (Airbnb/Booking.com): Great for Longer Stays or Groups
Renting an apartment through sites like Airbnb or Booking.com can be perfect if you’re staying longer or traveling with friends or family.
The big plus? You often get a kitchenette, meaning you can cook your own meals and save a ton on food.
While prices have gone up, sharing the cost with a group can make it very affordable. Consider looking at areas just outside the city center, like Montreuil, which has a cool, local vibe.
Alternative Stays: Unique & Ultra-Budget Options
For the ultimate budget traveler, there are some unique ways to find a place to stay:
- Couchsurfing: This lets you stay with locals for free. It’s a fantastic way to meet people and get insider tips.
- Worldpackers/Workaway: These programs let you volunteer your time in exchange for a free bed and sometimes even food.
- House-sitting: If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you might be able to care for someone’s home (and their pets!) in exchange for free lodging.
Ready to find your Parisian home away from home?
Transportation: Navigating Paris on the Cheap
Getting around Paris doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Here’s how to move around the city without spending too much.
Public Transportation: Your Best Friend in Paris
The public transport system in Paris is fantastic and super helpful for getting around.
The Metro (subway) is everywhere, runs often, and is cheap.
The bus system is great too, offering nice views as you ride and going to places the Metro might not reach.
RER trains are used for longer trips to areas outside the main city and for getting to and from the airports.
When you’re buying tickets, think about getting a Navigo Découverte card if you’re staying for a longer visit, like a full week. Otherwise, you can buy single tickets or a carnet (which is a pack of 10 tickets that saves you money).
Helpful hint: If you’re under 26, look for special discounts! Also, check for cheaper rates on weekends or holidays, but you might need to look on the French transport website for those details.
Walking: The Ultimate Free Sightseeing
Walking is the absolute best way to see Paris for free. It lets you really feel like a local, discover cool secret spots, and see all the famous places up close.
Try walking along the Seine River banks, or explore charming neighborhoods like Montmartre, Le Marais, or the Latin Quarter. You can also find “free” walking tours, like with Paris Greeters, where you just give a tip if you like the tour.
Biking: Vélib’ – A Fun & Affordable Option
Renting a bike is another fun and cheap way to get around. Vélib’ is the city’s bike rental system, where you can pick up and drop off bikes at many stations. Just be sure you’re comfortable riding in city traffic.
Airport Transfers: Budget-Friendly Arrival & Departure
When you’re getting to or leaving the airport, skip the expensive taxis. It’s much cheaper to use the bus or RER trains to get to and from the airport.
Food & Drink: Savoring Parisian Flavors on a Shoestring
Eating well in Paris doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s how you can enjoy the city’s tasty treats on a budget.
Picnics: A Perfect Parisian Experience
Having a picnic is a classic Paris thing to do and a great way to save money.
Where to get your supplies: Head to local markets, supermarkets like Monoprix or Franprix, and especially bakeries (boulangeries) and cheese shops (fromageries).
What to buy: Grab a fresh baguette, some yummy cheese, sliced meats (charcuterie), a bottle of wine, and maybe some pastries for dessert.
Best picnic spots: Enjoy your meal with amazing views at the Champ de Mars (right by the Eiffel Tower), relax in the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg, find a quiet spot in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, or chill out in the pretty Place des Vosges.
Boulangeries & Patisseries: Cheap & Delicious Breakfast/Snacks
Your local boulangerie (bakery) or patisserie (pastry shop) will be your best friend for breakfast and snacks.
Just grab a warm croissant, a pain au chocolat, or a simple baguette.
This is much, much cheaper than eating breakfast at your hotel or in a fancy cafe.
Street Food & Markets: Quick, Tasty, Affordable
For quick, yummy, and cheap eats, hit the streets and markets.
Look for crepe stands where you can get sweet or savory crepes – perfect for a fast bite.
Visit local markets like Marché des Enfants Rouges to find fresh food and ready-made meals.
“Prix-Fixe” Menus & “Plat du Jour”: Dining Out on a Budget
If you want to eat at a restaurant, look for “prix-fixe” menus or the “plat du jour” (dish of the day).
Many bistros offer special lunch deals that are a fixed price.
These often give you a great value for a meal with a few courses.
Supermarket Savvy: Cook Your Own Meals
This tip is a big money-saver, especially if you’re staying in an apartment with a kitchen.
Go to the supermarket and buy groceries to cook your own meals.
This will save you a lot of money compared to eating out for every single meal.
Coffee & Drinks: Skip Tourist Traps
When it comes to drinks, be smart about where you go.
Try to avoid cafes on super touristy streets like the Champs-Élysées for your coffee, as they will be very expensive.
Instead, find local cafes in less busy areas. They’ll be cheaper and often have a nicer feel.
And a big bonus: wine from supermarkets is very affordable in Paris.
Activities & Sightseeing: Free & Low-Cost Parisian Delights
Paris is full of amazing things to see and do, and many of them are free or very cheap.
Free Museums & Galleries: Culture Without the Cost
You can enjoy a lot of art and history without paying a dime.
Many museums run by the city offer free entry all the time, like the Musée Carnavalet (about Paris history) or the Petit Palais (a beautiful art museum).
For bigger museums like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay, look for free entry days or evenings. This is usually the first Sunday of the month, or if you’re under 26 and from the EU, you might get in free anytime.
Parks & Gardens: Relax and Rejuvenate for Free
Paris has some of the most beautiful public gardens where you can relax and enjoy the scenery for free.
Spend time in spots like the Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries, Parc Monceau, or Parc de Belleville.
They’re perfect places for watching people, taking a nice walk, or just sitting down and unwinding.
Iconic Landmarks (Exterior Views): Postcard-Perfect Without a Ticket
You don’t always need to go inside a famous landmark to enjoy it.
See the Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars or Trocadéro for amazing photo opportunities.
Admire Notre Dame Cathedral from the outside (it’s still being rebuilt).
Gaze at the impressive Arc de Triomphe from the street.
And don’t miss the Sacre-Coeur Basilica and the stunning views you get of the city from Montmartre.
Window Shopping & Strolling: Soak in the Atmosphere
Simply walking around and looking at shops is a fun, free way to soak in the Parisian vibe.
Stroll down the famous Champs-Élysées, explore the charming streets of Le Marais, or wander through Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Just enjoy being there, even if you’re not buying anything.
Local Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Parisian Life
To really feel like you’re living in Paris, try these local activities:
Explore neighborhoods that aren’t packed with tourists, like Canal St. Martin with its cool cafes, or the pretty, hilly streets of Butte-aux-Cailles.
Stop and watch street performers who often entertain crowds in public squares.
And a classic Parisian move: simply sit at a small café (even if just for a cheap espresso) and people-watch.
Paris Museum Pass/Explorer Pass: Value for Museum Lovers
If you’re a big fan of museums and plan to visit many places that charge an entry fee, consider getting a Paris Museum Pass or an Explorer Pass.
These passes can save you money overall compared to buying individual tickets.
Just do a quick calculation to see if the cost of the pass makes sense for all the museums you plan to see.
Best Time to Visit Paris on a Budget
Choosing the right time to visit Paris can make a big difference in how much you spend.
Off-Season Travel
Winter (from mid-November to January, but not around Christmas or New Year’s) is a good time to go. You’ll find fewer people, and places to stay and plane tickets may be cheaper.
Early spring (like April) or late autumn (like October) are also smart choices. These “shoulder seasons” usually have nice weather, and prices are easier on your wallet than during the busy summer.
Avoid Holidays & Weekends
Try to steer clear of major holidays and busy weekends. Prices for everything, from hotels to flights, usually go way up during these times.
Book in Advance
No matter when you decide to go, always book your accommodation early. The best budget-friendly places fill up fast, so planning ahead will help you snag a good deal.
General Money-Saving Tips
Beyond where you sleep, eat, and what you see, these overall tips will help you keep your budget in check.
Set a Daily Budget
Decide how much money you want to spend each day and try your best to stick to it. This is one of the most important steps to staying on budget.
Carry a Water Bottle
Bring a reusable water bottle with you. You can refill it for free at the many public drinking fountains around Paris, often called “Wallace Fountains.”
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is really important for your trip. Make sure to shop around and find a good plan that’s also affordable.
Wi-Fi: Utilize Free Hotspots
To save on data, look for free Wi-Fi hotspots. Many cafes, museums, and public areas in Paris offer free Wi-Fi that you can use.
Learn Basic French Phrases
Learning a few simple French words like “hello,” “thank you,” and “please” can go a long way. It often leads to nicer interactions with locals and sometimes even small unexpected perks.
Avoid Tourist Traps
Be smart about where you eat. Restaurants located right next to big tourist attractions often charge much higher prices for average food. Walk a few blocks away for better value and taste.
Track Your Spending
Keep an eye on your money. Use a budget app on your phone or even a simple spreadsheet to track what you’re spending so you don’t go over your limit.
Conclusion
You’ve got all the tools to explore Paris without breaking the bank! Remember to book accommodation and travel in advance, embrace picnics and cheap local eateries, and make the most of free sights and public transport.
By planning smart and diving into authentic Parisian experiences, you’ll discover the city’s magic on your own terms. Now go enjoy your budget-friendly trip to Paris.
