Paris has a unique historical and cultural history that millions of people travel to visit every year while spending a significant amount of money. It is difficult to see the big cities of Europe on a tight budget. But there are always methods to cut costs without sacrificing the quality of your vacation, and Paris is no exception. Even though outstanding restaurants might be expensive and museum entrance costs can be absurd, there are many excellent free activities for you to enjoy in Paris.
Affordable Accommodations in Paris
Like other major cities, Paris has some neighborhoods that are less well known than others and so have more cheap housing options. They are usually more tranquil places, ideal for relaxing and recovering after a tiring day of sightseeing. Here are three possibilities that are sure bets.
- Hiphophostels’ Caulaincourt Montmartre is well set in the 18th district next to the well-known Montmartre landmarks, and the subway is a short distance away. The hostel offers tidy, contemporary private rooms and shared or private dorm beds.
- At the city’s entrance, close to the subway stop, the well-rated Cafe Hotel de l’Avenir offers tidy rooms with all the necessities and free WiFi. Wheelchair access is also available here.
- Boissiere: This hotel is also near the entry to Paris in a calm, safe neighborhood. There are patios in some of the apartments, and it is tastefully equipped. The bonus is that it will only take 20 minutes to walk to the Champs Elysées.
Top Free Activities in Paris, France
After going over some crucial travel tips for seeing Paris on a tight budget, here are the top 5 free things to do in Paris so you may enjoy the city without spending a penny.
Walk along the Seine River
One of the most significant ways to explore the city and take in Paris’ most stunning landmarks is to stroll along the Seine’s quays.
Some quays, such as the Quai de la Gare du Nord or the Quai de Jussieu with their bars and barges, are well-known for their nighttime activity. In the summer, a few artificial beaches are set up in Paris on a few quays, with the Quai des Célestins being the most well-known.
Additionally, bookworms may find enjoyment upstream of the banks thanks to the many bookstores situated on the slopes of the Parisian banks. Thus, when you go to Paris next, don’t be afraid to breathe fresh air on the banks of the Seine River.
Enjoy Paris’s Free Museums
Contrary to popular belief, Paris is a liberal city with free museum admission. Others are only offered on particular occasions, while some are free all year round.
You should be aware that on the first Sunday of every month, the entrance to the Louvre, the most famous of all Parisian museums, is free. This will save you at least 17 euros. The same holds for the Centre Pompidou and the Orsay Museum. The Balzac Museum, the Shoah Memorial, and the Victor Hugo House are a few institutions that are always free to enter. A cost-effective method to experience a lot of cultures!
Get Paris’s Best Views
Looking for a distinctive rooftop where you can take in some of Paris’ best views for nothing? Visiting the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a must!
This famous department store in the French capital is a shrine to luxury and style. It has a terrace on its top level with amazing views of the Opera Garnier, Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Montparnasse Tower… The icing on the cake is that access is free! It is ideal for enjoying a drink and snapping the most stunning pictures of Paris.
Wander the Beautiful Parisian Streets
It’s essential to be aware that Paris is full of traditional winding, cobblestone streets if you want to experience the city in a new way. Some of them are among Paris’s most Instagrammable locations!
The list of the following streets as some of the most lovely:
The Latin Quarter’s rue Soufflot, which is famous for its architecture, the Marais’ rue des Rosiers, which is well-known for its eateries and shops, and the 12th arrondissement’s rue Crémieux, which is one of Paris’s most vibrant streets. Montsouris square is a rural area in the middle of Paris’ 16th arrondissement.
Montmartre and the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur
The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is another vital church to see while in Paris.
When you visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a white castle perched on Montmartre hill, it’s difficult not to think you’re going to heaven. Relax by lying down on the hill’s lawn and taking in the view of Paris. The argument is even more stunning from the top of the mountain on the basilica plaza, where jugglers and other performances are taking place. Free admission to the basilica is available. But, it costs 6 euros to get to the top of the dome for a better perspective. Lastly, read more about travel around the world here.