Weekend in Paris on a Budget

Paris, often called the “City of Light,” is a dream destination for many travelers. While it is known for its luxury and elegance, it’s entirely possible to enjoy Paris on a budget. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, admiring world-class art, or indulging in French cuisine, Paris can be experienced affordably with the right planning. Here’s how to make the most of a weekend in Paris without spending a fortune.

Day 1: Exploring the Iconic Sights for Free

Morning: Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro

Start your day with one of the most iconic landmarks in the world—the Eiffel Tower. While a trip to the top can be pricey (tickets can range from €10 to €26), the good news is that you can enjoy breathtaking views of the tower from the Trocadéro Gardens for free. Trocadéro offers some of the best panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, making it the perfect spot for photos.

Once you’ve taken in the beauty of the Eiffel Tower, stroll along the Champ de Mars, the vast park that stretches out in front of the tower. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and soak in the Parisian atmosphere.

Late Morning: Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

Next, head to the Arc de Triomphe. While you’ll need to pay a fee (around €13) to climb to the top, admiring the structure from ground level is completely free. From here, you can also take a leisurely walk down the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets. Window shopping is free, and you’ll find plenty of affordable cafés where you can sit and enjoy a coffee or croissant while watching the bustling city.

Lunch: Affordable Parisian Bites

For lunch, skip the pricey restaurants and opt for something simple yet delicious. Head to a local bakery (boulangerie) and pick up a freshly made baguette sandwich or a savory quiche for under €6. Pair it with a drink and you’ve got a traditional Parisian meal for less than €10. Alternatively, you can visit a supermarket and grab ingredients for a DIY picnic. Paris is full of beautiful parks where you can enjoy your meal, such as the Jardin des Tuileries or Parc Monceau.

Afternoon: Free Museums and Attractions

Paris is home to some of the world’s greatest museums, and the good news is that many of them offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. If your visit coincides with this, be sure to visit the Louvre Museum to admire the Mona Lisa and other famous works of art, or the Musée d’Orsay for its stunning collection of Impressionist masterpieces.

If it’s not a free day, consider visiting the Petit Palais, a beautiful museum with free permanent exhibitions of fine art, sculptures, and other treasures. You can also explore the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris (though currently under reconstruction), where entry to the main church is free.

Evening: Seine River Stroll and Budget Dinner

As the sun sets, take a relaxing walk along the Seine River. The views of the city at dusk, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame glowing in the background, are simply magical. You don’t need to pay for a pricey boat cruise to enjoy this experience.

For dinner, head to a local brasserie or bistro. Many restaurants offer affordable set menus (prix fixe) for dinner, typically ranging from €15-€20. Alternatively, you can find delicious street food like crêpes for under €5, especially in neighborhoods like Montmartre or Le Marais.

Day 2: Discovering the Local Charm

Morning: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

On your second day, start with a visit to the charming neighborhood of Montmartre. Known for its artistic history and bohemian vibe, Montmartre is a wonderful place to explore on foot. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, visit the local artists at Place du Tertre, and enjoy the views from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The climb to the top of the basilica’s dome offers a stunning panorama of Paris, and entrance to the basilica itself is free.

Late Morning: Market Visits and Budget Shopping

Montmartre is also home to some of the best street markets in Paris. Head to Rue Lepic or Rue des Abbesses, where you can browse fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and local delicacies. You can also pick up some affordable souvenirs or enjoy a coffee in one of the many cafés in the area.

Lunch: Picnic at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

For lunch, you can visit another bakery or market and gather supplies for a picnic. Take your food to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, one of Paris’ most beautiful and lesser-known parks. With its waterfalls, caves, and stunning views, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch.

Afternoon: Explore Le Marais

After lunch, head to Le Marais, one of Paris’s trendiest and most historic districts. The area is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, narrow streets, and eclectic shops. Many of the neighborhood’s historic buildings can be admired from the outside for free, such as Hôtel de Ville and Place des Vosges.

While in Le Marais, make time to visit the Musée Carnavalet, a museum dedicated to the history of Paris, which offers free entry. You’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past without spending a dime.

Evening: Dinner in the Latin Quarter

For your final evening in Paris, head to the Latin Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and affordable dining options. This neighborhood is home to a variety of budget-friendly restaurants, many of which offer multi-course meals for €10-€15. Try a traditional French dish like boeuf bourguignon or coq au vin.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg or along the banks of the Seine, enjoying the lights of the city before heading back to your accommodation.

Accommodation Options

Paris offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. Hostels are a great option for solo travelers, with prices starting as low as €20 per night. Some popular budget hostels include Generator Paris and Le Village Montmartre.

For those looking for more privacy, budget hotels like Hôtel Audran or ibis Paris offer affordable rooms starting at €60-€80 per night, depending on the season.

Airbnb is another good option for travelers who want to stay in local neighborhoods and experience the city like a Parisian. You can find private rooms or small apartments for around €50-€100 per night, depending on the location.

Final Tips for Saving Money in Paris

• Walk or use public transportation: Paris is a walkable city, and many major attractions are close to each other. If needed, use the metro, which offers affordable tickets and day passes.
• Visit free attractions: Paris has plenty of free things to do, from parks and markets to beautiful churches and historic sites.
• Pack your own snacks and water: Buying snacks and water at local shops is much cheaper than paying for them at tourist attractions.
• Travel off-season: If possible, visit Paris in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.

With careful planning, a weekend in Paris doesn’t have to be expensive. By focusing on free attractions, budget-friendly meals, and affordable accommodation, you can experience the magic of Paris without breaking the bank