Paris often has a reputation as one of the world’s most expensive cities. But the truth is, with a few smart choices, you can explore the City of Light without draining your savings. From free museums to hidden bakeries, this guide will show you how to enjoy Paris on a budget.

 

Save on Transportation

• Walk as much as possible. Paris is compact and best enjoyed on foot.

• Metro: Buy a Navigo Easy pass (rechargeable card) or a 10-ticket carnet instead of single rides.

• Bikes: Use Vélib’ Métropole, the city’s affordable bike-share program.

      ✅ Tip: If you’re staying a week, the Navigo Découverte weekly pass ( 31,60€ ) is the best value.

Find Affordable Accommodation

Hotels near major landmarks are pricey. But there are alternatives:

• Hostels: Check out Generator Paris (10th arrondissement) or St. Christopher’s Inn (19th).

• Budget hotels: Chains like Ibis Budget or B&B Hotels offer clean, simple stays.

• Apartments: Platforms like Airbnb (or local options) often work out cheaper, especially for groups.

      ✅ Tip: Stay in neighborhoods like Belleville, Bastille, or Montmartre for cheaper options while still being connected.

Eat Like a Local (and Save Big)

• Boulangeries (bakeries): A fresh baguette sandwich or quiche costs €5–€7.

• Street food: Try crepes, falafel in Le Marais, or Vietnamese food in the 13th arrondissement.

• Picnics: Grab cheese, bread, and wine from supermarkets and eat by the Seine.

      ✅ Tip: Avoid cafés right next to tourist landmarks—they’re overpriced and often mediocre.

Free & Low-Cost Attractions

• Free museums & monuments:

  • Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

  • Petit Palais

  • Père Lachaise Cemetery

• First Sunday of the month: Louvre, Orsay, and Centre Pompidou are free.

• Parks & gardens: Jardin du Luxembourg, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, Tuileries Garden.

      ✅ Tip: The Paris Museum Pass is worth it if you plan to see multiple paid museums.

Drink Smart

• Skip overpriced cocktails in tourist bars.

• Order a carafe d’eau (tap water) instead of bottled water in restaurants—it’s free.

• Buy wine at supermarkets or local cavistes and enjoy it during a picnic.

 

Budget-Friendly Shopping

Paris shopping doesn’t have to mean designer boutiques.

• Thrift stores: Kilo Shop, Guerrisol, and Free’P’Star in Le Marais.

• Markets: Explore Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (flea market).

 

Apps to Help You Save

• Too Good To Go: Rescue unsold bakery/restaurant food at discount prices.

• Citymapper: Cheapest public transport routes.

• Google Maps: Walking shortcuts & hidden cafés.

 

Best Time to Visit Paris on a Budget

• Low season (November–March): Cheaper flights & hotels, fewer crowds.

• Avoid July–August: High prices and heavy crowds.

 

Final Word: Paris Can Be Affordable

Visiting Paris doesn’t mean breaking the bank. By walking, eating local, and taking advantage of free cultural treasures, you can enjoy the Parisian lifestyle—even on a shoestring budget.