Who said visiting the “City of Love” has to be expensive? Here are our top tips for enjoying Paris on a budget.
Paris, often called the “City of Love” and “City of Lights,” is a must-visit European destination filled with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Sacre Coeur. However, it’s also known for being pricey. Thankfully, we’ve put together some handy tips to help you save money during your Paris trip.
First off, getting around Paris doesn’t have to break the bank. Most international flights land at Charles de Gaulle airport, but don’t forget about the smaller and potentially cheaper Paris Orly and Paris Beauvais airports. Budget airlines like RyanAir, Vueling, and EasyJet operate out of these airports.
The metro is the cheapest and easiest way to get around Paris, with tickets costing €1.92 per trip or €16 for a booklet of 10 tickets. Avoid taxis and cab services as much as possible because of the heavy traffic and potential for high fares. Buses are also a great, affordable option with 64 lines running through the city. If you’re looking to sightsee quickly, consider an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour. And of course, walking is completely free and allows you to enjoy the city’s famous promenades.
When it comes to food, Parisian cafes in the tourist areas can be pricey. Try to eat in local cafes off the beaten path. Check if your accommodation offers free breakfast or coffee, and don’t feel obligated to tip as tipping isn’t customary in France. Use apps like “The Fork” to find restaurant discounts of up to 50%. Wine can also be expensive, so order by the glass instead of the bottle.
For museum lovers, Paris offers numerous free or low-cost options. The Musèe d’Orsay, Musée d’Art Moderne, and the Pompidou Centre all offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month. And there are many other free museums available throughout the year. The Basilique du Sacrè-Coeur, famous parks like Parc des Buttes Chaumont and Parc Monceau, and the romantic Canal Saint-Martin are all fantastic free attractions.
Don’t miss out on the various free festivals and events that happen throughout the year, such as June’s Fete de la Musique, July’s Bastille Day celebrations, and October’s La Nuit Blanche. Join a free walking tour to get to know the city better and discover great places to eat and drink.
When it comes to accommodations, plenty of cheap places are available in Paris, especially if you’re willing to stay outside the city center. Do some research to find affordable and decent quality rooms. Some good budget options include hotels like “Libertel Canal Saint Martin,” “Hotel du Champ Mars,” and “Mama’s Shelter.” These places offer affordability without compromising on experience.
With so many budget-friendly options, a trip to Paris doesn’t have to be expensive. Enjoy the culture, food, and sights without breaking the bank. Have an amazing trip to Paris!
