10 Things to Do in Paris on a Small Budget
What are the Affordable Things to Do in Paris?
Want to explore France’s stunning capital city but don’t want to break the bank? Our list of free or affordable things to do in Paris will guarantee you a wonderful trip to this iconic city without hurting your wallet. Similar to many capital cities around the world, Paris is certainly more expensive than smaller towns and villages, but there’s still plenty of activities that will allow you to enjoy the City of Light.
From free landmarks and budget markets to tucked-away bars and the city’s bike-share system, there’s tons for travelers on small budgets to discover. So, join us on a wallet-friendly journey through beautiful Paris.
1. Exploring Paris with Velib’ or Navigo Pass
Saving money on getting around
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families, Group
The Velib is the city’s bicycle-sharing network and is one of the cheapest ways to travel. Plus, you get the benefits of fresh air and exercise. If this seems a little too demanding, don’t despair as both traditional and electric bikes are available. You can easily find a Velib bike as, with around 1,500 docking points, it’s one of the largest bike-share systems in the world. Bike hire is incredibly cheap, only a few euros for a 24-hour pass, or just rent one for only 30 minutes.
Another affordable travel option is to purchase a contactless travel card (Passe Navigo Découverte), which gives you a week of access to all public transportation in Paris for only a small fee.
2. Notre-Dame Cathedral and other landmarks
World-famous monuments and buildings
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The beautiful streets of Paris are like an open-air museum. Travelers on small budgets will be treated to iconic landmarks, almost wherever they look. From the mighty Eiffel Tower and towering Arc de Triomphe, to the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, over 2,200 years of history can be discovered for free, simply by strolling through the city. Spectacular photo opportunities appear around every corner.
Some attractions do ask for an entry free but most churches and cathedrals are free to visit. To save money when visiting a lot of places, consider buying a Paris Attraction Pass which gives you a discount on over 60 attractions, as well as river cruises and hop-on, hop-off bus tours.
3. Saint-Ouen Flea Market
Affordable antique treasures and second-hand bargains
Good for: Budget, Shoppers, Unusual
Also known as the Clignancourt Flea Market, the Saint-Ouen Flea Market is a paradise for shoppers looking for cut-price treasures and bargains. The market is a vast, vibrant, busy place, and it’s incredibly fun to just wander through and soak up the atmosphere without even spending a dime.
The market can be found in the north of the city, by the huge Paris Ring Road. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to an eclectic mix of stalls and shacks selling everything from clothing and jewelry to antiques, home furnishings, books, and toys. The atmosphere is welcoming here and stall owners are normally happy to engage in a bit of friendly bartering. Read more
Location: 87 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, France
Open: Saturday–Monday from 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesday–Friday)
Saint-Ouen Flea Market
4. Museum of Modern Art and other museums
Experiencing art and culture for free
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
If you’re after a little history, culture, and art to inspire you, you’re in for a treat in Paris. Many famous institutions are free to visit all year round, such as the Museum of the Romantic Life (the 1830 house of painter Ary Scheffer), Victor Hugo’s House, and even the permanent collections at The Museum of Modern Art.
What’s more, many of the museums that normally charge for tickets offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. These include unmissable destinations such as The Louvre, the Orsay Museum, and the Picasso Museum. To pack in even more, a Paris Museum Pass gives you free access to over 50 museums and monuments.
5. La Promenade Plantée
An oasis of nature above the city streets
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
Originally a 19th-century railway viaduct, La Promenade Plantée is a gorgeous escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This scenic elevated walkway runs for almost 3 miles above the rooftops, from the Opéra Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes, sometimes reaching 32 ft (10 meters) above street level.
Also known as Coulée Verte René-Dumont, the narrow pathway is bordered by trees, shrubs, and numerous flowering plants. There’s even a man-made river up here. You can look down on both the old and new city architecture, gaining a spectacular panorama of the Parisian rooftops. There are many access points, both staircases and elevators, so when you’re done with snapping great photos, you can climb down to a cafe below.
Location: Coulée Verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France
Open: Early morning until sunset. Times change seasonally.
La Promenade Plantée
6. Jardin des Tuileries
Gardens of Parisian art and culture
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
Tucked between The Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, you’ll find the stunning Jardin des Tuileries (Tilery Garden). The gardens take their name from Queen Catherine de Medici’s 16th century Palais des Tuileries. Expansive, grand, and exquisitely manicured, this is a charming spot for a leisurely stroll and soaking up the uniquely Parisian ambience.
On the south-western side of the garden, art lovers can enjoy a showcase of Monet’s masterpieces at the Musée de l’Orangerie for a moderate fee. However, to keep your visit entirely free, stick to the garden itself which has plenty to offer, with its two tranquil ponds as well as 18 statues by the French sculptor Maillol. Read more
Location: 75001 Paris, France
Open: Daily from 7.30 am to 7.30 pm
Jardin des Tuileries
7. Canal Saint-Martin
An atmospheric and evocative street scene
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
If you’re after a thriving cafe and restaurant scene in one of the trendiest neighborhoods of Paris, then look no further than the scenic Canal Saint-Martin. This 1.5 mile (2 km) stretch of waterfront in the heart of the city provides a touch of nature to escape to and photogenic spots to snap.
For a blissful and, importantly, affordable day out by the canal, head to the Marché couvert Saint-Martin, a historic covered market (rebuilt in 1880). Here you can purchase fresh, local produce or hot, take-away food. Set up a blanket under the shade of the chestnut trees at the canal side, then watch the world pass by.
Location: Porte Saint-Martin, 75010 Paris, France
Canal Saint-Martin
8. Père Lachaise Cemetery
The final destination of many celebrities
Good for: Photo, Budget, Unusual
You may think that this sounds like a strange place to include on our list. However, due to the sheer number and variety of famous historical figures who call this their final resting place, the Père Lachaise Cemetery really is a fascinating place to explore.
Many famous writers, artists, musicians, and scientists are buried here, from Frédéric Chopin and Jim Morrison to Edith Piaf and Oscar Wilde. The site is vast but don’t worry about spending an age searching for a specific tomb. You can buy a map for the cemetery or find one online for free. Read more
Location: Boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris, France
Open: Monday–Friday from 8 am to 5.30 pm, Saturday from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm, Sunday from 9 am to 5.30 pm
Phone: +33 (0)1 55 25 82 10
Père Lachaise Cemetery
9. Le Baron Rouge
Character and charm at a traditional eatery
Good for: Couples, Food, Budget
Just a short walk from Bastille Square, you’ll find Le Baron Rouge (The Red Baron). This popular little restaurant and wine bar is chock full of character, fun, and authentic Parisian charm, and all for a very affordable price.
You’ll find seasonal oysters, charcuterie platters, a great selection of cheeses, and indeed everything you could need for a delicious traditional French meal without spending too much. They even stock large barrels of local wines, which you can use to fill up your empty bottle.
Location: 1 Rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris, France
Open: Tuesday–Friday from 10 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 10 pm, Monday from 5 pm to 10 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 43 14 32
Le Baron Rouge
10. Budget-friendly bar hopping
Dining and drinking without breaking the bank
Good for: Budget, Food, Nightlife
A great night out in Paris doesn’t have to leave your purse feeling light. Often over-looked by tourists, student bars are a wonderful way to have a lot of fun at a budget price. You’ll be greeted with a lively, friendly atmosphere, and good quality food and drink options (it is France after all) that are often a great deal cheaper than more upmarket venues.
For budget-friendly options like this, consider Le Requin Chagrin on Rue Mouffetard (for bar bites, cocktails, and shuffleboard) or Chez Georges on Rue des Canettes (for generous cheese platters in a brick-lined cellar). Paname Brewing Company is another lovely venue featuring a terrace with canal views.
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