Visiting Paris without burning a hole in your wallet might sound like a pipe dream, but it’s completely possible! From charming sidewalk cafés to world-famous landmarks, you can soak up the magic of Paris while keeping your bank account happy. Let’s break it down, penny-pincher style, with some clever tips for navigating the city of lights without spending like royalty.
Flights: snagging a bargain in the sky
First things first: getting there. Paris is one of Europe’s most visited cities, so there are plenty of flight options. But if you want to travel without breaking the bank, timing is everything. Use price comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices over time, and keep your eyes peeled for deals.
Flying during the shoulder seasons – April to June or September to November – can save you a pretty penny. And don’t forget to check budget airlines. Sure, you might have to forgo extra legroom or pay for that tiny bottle of water, but it’s a small price to pay (literally) for cheap airfare.
Tip: Use incognito mode while searching for flights to avoid those sneaky price hikes after multiple searches. After all, no one likes being taken for a ride!
Seeing the sights without selling the family silver
While Paris is home to world-famous taxis, you don’t need to splash out to get around. The city’s public transport system is a dream – affordable and efficient. The Metro is your best friend here, with single rides available for affordable prices. Even better, get yourself a carnet (a bundle of 10 tickets) or a Navigo card for unlimited weekly travel if you stay longer.
Also, consider getting a good tourist pass attractions deal and make the most of the city’s attractions without worrying about your budget. Tourist cards are passes that you can buy for a certain number of days to access transport and the main tourist attractions in the city at a reduced price. The Paris Pass is the main card in Paris and one of the most profitable.
For the adventurers, why not try a Vélib bike? The city’s bike-sharing system is a cheap and eco-friendly way to zip around. Plus, it’s a great way to burn off all those croissants!
Accommodation without spending an arm and a leg
Paris is notoriously expensive, especially in hotels, but throwing in the towel is unnecessary. Think a little outside the box instead of checking into a five-star hotel with gold-plated room service.
Airbnb or hostels are great options for budget travellers. Many hostels in Paris offer private rooms if you’re not keen on sharing bunk beds with strangers. Plus, they often come with kitchens, meaning you can whip up some of your own meals and avoid pricey restaurant bills.
If you’re after something truly wallet-friendly, consider couchsurfing – a way to stay with locals for free. Not only do you save money, but you also get insider tips from someone who knows the city like the back of their hand.
Dining like a local on a budget
We get it—Paris is the capital of fine dining, but that doesn’t mean you have to splash out on Michelin-starred meals every night. Instead, embrace the local eating method: grab a baguette from a local bakery, some cheese from a market, and head to a park for a picnic. You’ll feel très Parisian, and it’s much cheaper than eating at a fancy restaurant.
Craving a sit-down meal? Seek out bistros and brasseries that offer prix fixe menus, a set price for a multi-course meal. These can be fantastic value, especially for lunch. And don’t forget to indulge in a few street crêpes – they’re cheap, cheerful, and oh-so-French!
Tip: Drink like a local and opt for house wine (vin de table) rather than overpriced cocktails or imported beer. It’s often just as good, if not better, and costs a fraction of the price.
Sights and attractions while keeping costs down
The beauty of Paris lies in the fact that you don’t need to pay an arm and a leg to experience its charm. Many of the city’s most iconic landmarks are either free or relatively inexpensive to visit. For instance, it costs nothing to stroll along the Seine, soak up the atmosphere in Montmartre, or marvel at the stunning architecture of Notre Dame.
Plan ahead if you’ve got your heart set on seeing some of the major attractions like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower. Many museums and monuments in Paris offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month. If you’re under 26 and from the EU, you’re lucky – many places offer discounted or free admission.
Shopping: souvenirs without the splurge
While Paris is famous for its high-end fashion houses, you don’t need to shop on the Champs-Élysées to find stylish souvenirs. Check out local markets like the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, the city’s largest flea market for unique gifts that won’t cost a fortune. You can find everything from vintage clothing to quirky antiques.
For fashionistas on a budget, Paris’s second-hand shops and thrift stores are your best bet. You can still look chic without spending a fortune.
