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How To Travel To Paris On A Budget - A Complete Guide

Discover how to travel to Paris on a budget with our complete guide. Learn how to save money on accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

Author:Tyreece Bauer
Reviewer:Tobey Strickland
Nov 14, 202325.2K Shares340.6K Views
Looking for ways to save money on your trip to Paris? Look no further! Our complete guide to Paris on a budget has everything you need to know.
Paris, often hailed as the "City of Lights" and the epitome of romance is renowned for its iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. While it's true that Paris has a reputation for luxury and sophistication, the city also offers a treasure trove of experiences for those on a budget. In this guide, we'll unveil the secrets of exploring Paris without breaking the bank, proving that the magic of the French capital is accessible to every traveler.
Paris is a great city to visit on a budget becauseParis is home to a plethora of world-famous landmarks that won't cost you a cent to admire. From the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral to the panoramic views from Montmartre's Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the city's free attractions are as captivating as they are budget-friendly. Immerse yourself in the city's natural beauty by exploring its parks and gardens. Jardin des Tuileries, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and Luxembourg Gardens offer serene escapes without an entrance fee. A budget traveler can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and a taste of Parisian tranquility.
Paris has a lot to offer visitors, even on a tight budget. There are many free and low-cost attractions, such as museums, parks, and gardens. There is also a wide variety of affordable accommodation and dining options available. Paris is a very walkable city, so you can save money on transportation by getting around on foot. There is also a good public transportation system that is relatively inexpensive. Paris is a popular tourist destination, so there are many discounts and deals available on attractions and activities. You can often find discounts for students, seniors, and families.

Accommodation In Paris On A Budget

A row of hotels on a city street.
A row of hotels on a city street.
There are many places to find affordable accommodation in Paris, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few suggestions:
  • Hostels -Hostels are a great way to save money on accommodation in Paris. There are many hostels in the city that offer clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.
  • Guesthouses -Guesthouses are another good option for affordable accommodation in Paris. Guesthouses are typically smaller and more intimate than hotels, and they often offer a more personal experience.
  • Apartments -If you are staying in Paris for longer than a few days, you may want to consider renting an apartment. This can be a more affordable option than staying in a hotel, especially if you are traveling with a group.
  • Budget hotels -There are also a number of budget hotels in Paris that offer clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Types Of Accommodation Available In Paris

Here is a brief overview of the different types of accommodation available in Paris:
  • Hostels -Hostels typically offer dormitory-style rooms, but some also offer private rooms. Hostels are often located in central areas and offer a variety of amenities, such as shared kitchens, common areas, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Guesthouses -Guesthouses typically offer private rooms with en suite bathrooms. Guesthouses are often located in residential areas and offer a more personal experience than hotels.
  • Apartments -Apartments are a good option for travelers who want to have their own space and kitchen. Apartments are typically located in residential areas and can be rented for short or long periods of time.
  • Budget hotels -Budget hotels typically offer clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. Budget hotels are often located in central areas and offer a variety of amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Tips For Booking Accommodation In Advance

Here are a few tips for booking accommodation in advance:
  • Book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season (summer and holidays).
  • Compare prices from different websites and booking agencies to get the best deal.
  • Read reviews of accommodation before you book to get an idea of what other travelers have experienced.
  • Book directly with the accommodation provider if possible to avoid paying booking fees.

Food In Paris On A Budget

A restaurant with tables and chairs on the sidewalk in a city street.
A restaurant with tables and chairs on the sidewalk in a city street.

Eat Cheaply In Paris

There are many places to eat cheaply in Paris, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few suggestions:
  • Street food -Paris has a great street food scene, with many vendors selling delicious and affordable food. Some popular street food items include crêpes, falafel, and kebabs.
  • Budget-friendly restaurants -There are also a number of budget-friendly restaurants in Paris that offer delicious and affordable meals. Look for restaurants that offer set menus or student discounts.
  • Grocery stores -If you are staying in an apartment or hostel with a kitchen, you can save money on food by cooking your own meals. You can find affordable groceries at most supermarkets in Paris.

Types Of Food Available In Paris

Paris has a wide variety of food available, from street food to fine dining. Here is a brief overview of the different types of food available in Paris:
  • Street food -Street food is a popular option for people on a budget. Some popular street food items include crêpes, falafel, kebabs, and sandwiches.
  • Budget-friendly restaurants -Budget-friendly restaurants typically offer set menus or student discounts. Some popular budget-friendly restaurants in Paris serve French cuisine, pizza, and burgers.
  • Mid-range restaurants -Mid-range restaurants offer a wider variety of cuisine and a more upscale dining experience. Some popular mid-range restaurants in Paris serve French cuisine, Italian cuisine, and Asian cuisine.
  • Fine-dining restaurants -Fine-dining restaurants offer the most exquisite dining experience in Paris. These restaurants serve the highest-quality food and offer impeccable service.

Tips For Saving Money On Food

Here are a few tips for saving money on food in Paris:
  • Eat at street food vendors. Street food is a great way to save money on food in Paris. There are many vendors selling delicious and affordable food all over the city.
  • Look for restaurants that offer set menus or student discounts. Set menus are a great way to save money on food, as they typically include a starter, main course, and dessert. Student discounts are also available at many restaurants in Paris.
  • Cook your own meals if possible. If you are staying in an apartment or hostel with a kitchen, you can save money on food by cooking your own meals. You can find affordable groceries at most supermarkets in Paris.
  • Avoid eating at restaurants in tourist traps. Restaurants in tourist traps often charge inflated prices. Instead, look for restaurants in less-touristy areas.
  • Share meals with friends or family. If you are traveling with friends or family, you can save money by sharing meals. Many restaurants in Paris offer dishes that are large enough to share.

Free Things To Do In Paris

Musée d'Orsay, Paris, France
Musée d'Orsay, Paris, France

Museums

There are many free museums in Paris, especially on the first Sunday of each month. Here are a few of the most popular free museums in Paris:
  • Musée du Louvre -The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from ancient civilizations to the present day.
  • Musée d'Orsay -The Musée d'Orsay is home to a world-renowned collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
  • Musée Rodin -The Musée Rodin is dedicated to the work of Auguste Rodin, one of the most famous sculptors of all time. The museum houses a collection of Rodin's sculptures, as well as drawings and other works of art.
  • Musée Picasso -The Musée Picasso is home to the largest collection of Picasso's work in the world. The museum houses a collection of Picasso's paintings, sculptures, drawings, and other works of art.
  • Centre Pompidou -The Centre Pompidou is a museum of modern and contemporary art. The museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and other works of art by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol.

Parks And Gardens

Paris has many beautiful parks and gardens, many of which are free to enter. Here are a few of the most popular parks and gardens in Paris:
  • Jardin du Luxembourg -The Jardin du Luxembourg is a large public park located in the Latin Quarter. The park features gardens, fountains, and a pond.
  • Tuileries Garden -The Tuileries Garden is a public park located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. The park features gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
  • Parc des Buttes Chaumont -The Parc des Buttes Chaumont is a large public park located in the 19th arrondissement. The park features a lake, waterfalls, and a cave.
  • Parc Monceau -The Parc Monceau is a public park located in the 8th arrondissement. The park features gardens, fountains, and a rotunda.
  • Jardin du Palais-Royal -The Jardin du Palais-Royal is a public park located in the 1st arrondissement. The park features gardens, arcades, and a fountain.

Walking Tours

There are many free walking tours available in Paris. These tours are a great way to learn about the city's history and culture. Here are a few of the most popular free walking tours in Paris:
  • New Europe Tours -New Europe Tours offers a free walking tour of the Latin Quarter and the Marais district.
  • Freetour.com -Freetour.com offers a free walking tour of the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées.
  • Discover Walks -Discover Walks offers a free walking tour of Montmartre and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
  • Context Travel -Context Travel offers a free walking tour of the Louvre Museum.

Other Free Activities

Here are a few other free activities that you can do in Paris:
  • Take a walk along the Seine River:The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris, and it offers stunning views of the city. You can walk along the river for free, or you can take a boat cruise.
  • Visit the Père Lachaise Cemetery:The Père Lachaise Cemetery is the final resting place of many famous people, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Edith Piaf. The cemetery is free to enter.
  • Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral -The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. The cathedral is free to enter, but you may have to wait in line.
  • Watch the Eiffel Tower light show -The Eiffel Tower light show takes place every night at 10:00 p.m.

Low-Cost Activities In Paris

Public Transportation

Paris has an excellent public transportation system, which is a great way to save money on getting around the city. You can purchase a single ticket, a day pass, or a week pass. A day pass is a good option if you plan on using public transportation multiple times in one day. A week pass is a good option if you plan on using public transportation for a week.

Tourist Passes

There are a number of tourist passes available in Paris that can save you money on admission to popular attractions. The most popular tourist pass is the Paris Pass, which gives you free admission to many of the city's top attractions, as well as unlimited use of public transportation. Other tourist passes include the Go Paris Explorer Pass and the Museum Pass.

Discounted Tickets To Attractions

There are a number of ways to get discounted tickets to attractions in Paris. Many attractions offer discounts for students, seniors, and families. You can also find discounted tickets online and at tourist information centers.

Transportation

Paris Metro, France
Paris Metro, France
The best way to get around Paris on a budget is to use public transportation. The Paris Métro is a fast and efficient way to get around the city, and it is very affordable. You can purchase single tickets, a day pass, or a week pass. A day pass is a good option if you plan on using public transportation multiple times in one day. A week pass is a good option if you plan on using public transportation for a week.
Another affordable way to get around Paris is by bus. The bus system is not as fast as the Métro, but it is a good option if you are on a tight budget. You can purchase single tickets or a day pass.
If you are comfortable riding a bike, you can rent a Vélib' bike. Vélib' is a self-service bike rental system that is available throughout the city. You can purchase a day pass or a week pass.
Taxis can be expensive in Paris, so it is best to avoid them if you are on a budget. However, if you need to take a taxi, there are a few things you can do to save money:
  • Make sure to agree on a price with the driver before you get in the taxi.
  • Ask the driver to use the meter.
  • Avoid taking taxis during peak hours.

Tips For Saving Money On Other Expenses

Here are some tips for saving money on other expenses in Paris:

Shopping

  • Shop at thrift stores and flea markets -There are many thrift stores and flea markets in Paris where you can find unique and affordable items.
  • Avoid shopping in tourist traps -Tourist traps often charge inflated prices for souvenirs and other items.
  • Haggle for prices -It is common to haggle for prices at markets and flea markets.
  • Use a credit card that offers rewards for travel purchases -This can help you save money on your shopping expenses.

Souvenirs

  • Buy souvenirs from smaller shops and markets. Smaller shops and markets often have better prices than souvenir shops in tourist traps.
  • Buy souvenirs that are made in France. This will help you support the local economy.
  • Avoid buying souvenirs that are made of cheap materials. These souvenirs are likely to break easily and will not last.
  • Buy souvenirs that are unique to Paris. This will make your souvenirs more special and memorable.

Nightlife

  • Go to happy hour. Many bars and restaurants in Paris offer happy hour specials on drinks and food.
  • Look for free events. There are many free events held in Paris throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and exhibitions.
  • Take advantage of student discounts. Many bars and clubs in Paris offer discounts to students.
  • Avoid buying drinks at tourist traps. Drinks can be very expensive at bars and clubs in tourist traps.
  • Split drinks with friends. This is a great way to save money on drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions - Paris On A Budget

Is Paris An Affordable City?

Paris ranks as the 2nd most expensive city worldwide. While Paris is an expensive city to live in, it's possible to manage your budget well — especially if you don't have a lavish lifestyle and if compare it to other expensive cities like London and Amsterdam.

How Can I Save On Mobile Data And Communication Expenses In Paris?

Purchase a local SIM card or consider using free Wi-Fi available in many cafes and public spaces to minimize data charges.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Paris On A Budget?

The best time to visit Paris on a budget is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). During these seasons, the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists, so prices for accommodation, food, and activities are typically lower.

Conclusion

Navigating Paris on a budget is not only feasible but also an enriching experience. The city's abundance of free attractions, affordable dining options, and efficient public transportation system make it accessible to travelers with various financial constraints. From iconic landmarks to charming neighborhoods, Paris unfolds its allure without compromising your budget.
By strategically planning your itinerary, opting for budget accommodations, and exploring the city's many no-cost offerings, you can savor the magic of the City of Lights without breaking the bank. Paris on a budget is not just a possibility; it's an invitation to uncover the genuine charm and cultural richness of this world-renowned destination while keeping your travel expenses in check. Enjoy the elegance, relish the cuisine, and embrace the history—all within the means of a budget-conscious traveler. Your Parisian adventure awaits, proving that the enchantment of this iconic city is accessible to every wanderer, regardless of their budget constraints.
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Tyreece Bauer

Tyreece Bauer

Author
Tobey Strickland

Tobey Strickland

Reviewer
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