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Budget-Friendly Paris Trip- Ready to fall in love with Paris?
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The Times

The Times

Paris, often referred to as “The City of Lights,” is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. Known for its artistic charm, breathtaking architecture, and historical landmarks, Paris offers an unforgettable experience to every visitor. In this guide, we’ll focus on one of the most important aspects of travel: exploring Paris for first-time visitors. From must-see attractions to hidden gems, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your Parisian adventure. We will guide you for a Budget-friendly Paris trip.

Places to Visit On Paris

1. The Eiffel Tower – A Timeless Symbol

No visit to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Standing at 1,083 feet, this iron structure offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its various levels. For first-time visitors, a trip to the summit is an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the evening light show, when the tower sparkles every hour after sunset.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the long queues and enjoy a glass of champagne at the top for an extra-special experience.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
The Eiffel Tower

2. The Louvre Museum – A Cultural Odyssey

When searching for the best places to visit in Paris for first-time travelers, the Louvre Museum always tops the list. Home to over 38,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Coronation of Napoleon, the Louvre is a treasure trove of world history and culture.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Explore lesser-known sections like the Islamic Art wing for a more intimate experience.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
The Louvre Museum

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral – Gothic Masterpiece

Another must-visit on any first-time trip is the Notre-Dame Cathedral. This Gothic cathedral, with its soaring spires, intricately carved gargoyles, and stunning stained glass windows, is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of French resilience.

Even though the cathedral was partially damaged in the 2019 fire, restoration efforts are ongoing, and visitors can still admire its magnificent façade and nearby gardens.

Highlight: Walk around the Île de la Cité for spectacular views of Notre-Dame from the Pont de l’Archevêché.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Notre-Dame Cathedral

4. Montmartre – The Art of Bohemian Paris

For a more authentic Parisian experience, Montmartre is one of the best places to visit in Paris for first-time travelers. This historic district was once the heart of the city’s bohemian art scene, home to artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. Walk the cobblestone streets, visit Sacre-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy sweeping views of the city from the highest point in Paris.

Explore: Don’t miss the Place du Tertre, where local artists sell their paintings and offer portraits to tourists, a great way to bring home a personalized souvenir.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Montmartre

5. Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe – Parisian Grandeur

A stroll down the Champs-Élysées, often called “the most beautiful avenue in the world,” is a quintessential Parisian experience. The avenue is lined with luxury shops, theaters, and cafes, culminating at the iconic Arc de Triomphe, which honors those who fought for France during the Napoleonic Wars.

For first-time visitors, climbing the 284 steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe offers an incredible view of the city’s geometric layout and landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Champs-Élysées

6. Seine River Cruise – The Heart of Paris

One of the most romantic ways to see the city is by taking a Seine River Cruise. These cruises pass by many of Paris’ most famous monuments, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame, offering a unique perspective on the city. Whether you choose a daytime sightseeing cruise or a candlelit dinner cruise, the experience is unforgettable.

Perfect for: First-time visitors looking to relax and see multiple attractions in one go.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Seine River Cruise – The Heart of Paris

7. Le Marais – A Taste of Old Paris

For travelers wanting to explore a more traditional side of the city, Le Marais is one of the best places to visit in Paris for first-time travelers. This historic district boasts narrow streets, medieval architecture, and charming boutiques. It’s also home to some of the best falafel in Paris, as well as the Picasso Museum and Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in the city.

Tip: Spend an afternoon wandering the streets, discovering hidden courtyards, art galleries, and quaint cafes that are perfect for people-watching.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Le Marais

8. Opéra Garnier – Parisian Elegance

For a touch of opulence, visit the Opéra Garnier, one of the most extravagant buildings in Paris. This 19th-century opera house, with its gilded interiors and magnificent chandeliers, inspired the setting for The Phantom of the Opera. Even if you don’t attend a performance, taking a guided tour of the building is a feast for the eyes.

Bonus: The nearby Galeries Lafayette is a stunning department store with a rooftop terrace offering fantastic views of the Paris skyline

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Opéra Garnier – Parisian Elegance

9. Luxembourg Gardens – Parisian Serenity

For a peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris, the Luxembourg Gardens offers 60 acres of lush greenery, flowerbeds, fountains, and statues. This is the perfect spot for first-time visitors to relax after a day of sightseeing. You can rent a chair by the Grand Basin pond or explore the garden’s small hidden statues and sculptures.

What to Do: Visit the Luxembourg Palace and catch a glimpse of the French Senate or simply enjoy the tranquility with a picnic on a sunny day.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Luxembourg Gardens – Parisian Serenity

10. Palace of Versailles – A Day Trip to Royalty

Though slightly outside the city, the Palace of Versailles is an essential stop for any first-time visitor to Paris. The opulent palace, with its Hall of Mirrors, sprawling gardens, and historic rooms, offers a glimpse into the life of French royalty. You can spend an entire day exploring the estate, including Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, a charming replica village on the grounds.

Budget-Friendly Paris Trip
Palace of Versailles – A Day Trip to Royalty

When To Go Paris

The best time to visit Paris depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and events. Here’s a breakdown of the best seasons to visit:

1. Spring (March to May)

  • Best For: Mild weather, blooming gardens, fewer crowds than summer.
  • Weather: Temperatures range from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F).
  • Pros: The parks and gardens are in full bloom (like Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg), making it a picturesque time to explore the city. Outdoor café terraces start opening up, and there are fewer tourists compared to summer.
  • Cons: Accommodation and flight prices may begin to rise, especially closer to May. Rain is more common, so bring an umbrella.

2. Summer (June to August)

  • Best For: Festivals, long daylight hours, warm weather.
  • Weather: Temperatures can reach between 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F), sometimes higher during heatwaves.
  • Pros: Paris Plages (artificial beaches along the Seine), outdoor festivals, and cultural events make summer lively. Days are long, and outdoor dining is popular. Popular sights like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre stay open longer.
  • Cons: This is the peak tourist season, so expect long lines, crowded attractions, and higher prices for hotels and flights. Locals tend to go on vacation in August, so some shops and restaurants may close.

3. Fall (September to November)

  • Best For: Mild weather, fewer tourists, cultural events.
  • Weather: Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
  • Pros: Paris is less crowded than in the summer, making it a great time to visit popular attractions. The fall foliage in parks like Bois de Boulogne is beautiful, and it’s also the season for cultural events like Paris Fashion Week and the Nuit Blanche art festival in October.
  • Cons: Some days can be chilly, and rain becomes more frequent as November approaches.

4. Winter (December to February)

  • Best For: Holiday lights, fewer crowds, lower prices.
  • Weather: Temperatures range from 2°C to 8°C (35°F to 46°F).
  • Pros: Winter is a magical time in Paris, with beautiful Christmas lights, markets, and ice skating rinks, especially near Notre-Dame and the Champs-Élysées. Fewer tourists mean shorter lines and cheaper hotel rates. Sales (Les Soldes) start in January, offering great shopping deals.
  • Cons: It’s cold, and daylight hours are shorter. Some attractions may close earlier, and rain or snow can occur, so outdoor activities might be limited.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds and Save Money:

  • Late Winter (January to March) and Fall (September to November) offer lower prices, fewer crowds, and mild weather, making them ideal for budget travelers who still want to experience the charm of Paris.

Best Time for Specific Events:

  • Paris Fashion Week: Late February and September/early October.
  • Bastille Day: July 14th, with parades and fireworks.
  • Nuit Blanche: A free, all-night art festival in early October.
  • Christmas Markets: Late November to December.

If you prefer pleasant weather without large crowds, late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) are ideal times to visit Paris.

Tips: How To Get Around Paris

Getting around Paris is easy and there are several efficient ways to explore the city:

1. Paris Metro

The Paris Metro is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to navigate the city. With 16 lines and over 300 stations, the Metro connects almost every major area in Paris.

  • Cost: A single ticket costs around €2.10, or you can buy a carnet (book of 10 tickets) for a discounted price.
  • Paris Visite Pass: Offers unlimited travel on the metro, bus, and RER for 1-5 days.

2. Buses

Paris buses are an excellent way to travel while sightseeing, as they pass through many scenic parts of the city.

  • Cost: Similar to the Metro, a single journey ticket is around €2.10.
  • Night Buses: Called Noctilien, night buses run from around 12:30 AM to 5:30 AM.

3. RER Trains

The RER is a suburban train system that also serves central Paris. It’s faster for traveling longer distances, like getting to Versailles, Disneyland Paris, or Charles de Gaulle Airport.

  • Cost: Prices vary based on the zone you’re traveling to.

4. Walking

Paris is very walkable, especially in neighborhoods like the Marais, Latin Quarter, and around the Seine. You can easily spend a day exploring on foot and stumble upon hidden gems.

5. Bikes

Paris has a public bike rental system called Vélib’, which is a great option for short trips.

  • Cost: It’s free for the first 30 minutes, and then costs €1 per additional 30 minutes. You can get a day or week pass for longer use.

6. Electric Scooters

You can rent electric scooters from companies like Lime, Bird, and Dott, which are scattered across the city.

  • Cost: Usually around €1 to unlock and then €0.15-0.25 per minute.

7. Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available throughout Paris, but can be expensive.

  • Ride-Sharing: Apps like Uber, Bolt, and Free Now are widely used and can be more affordable than taxis.

8. Riverboats (Batobus)

For a unique and scenic way to get around, consider using the Batobus along the Seine River. This hop-on-hop-off boat service stops at popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame.

  • Cost: Day passes start at €17 for adults.

9. Driving

Renting a car isn’t necessary in Paris due to traffic and limited parking. It’s better for trips outside of the city, like to the Loire Valley or Normandy.

10. Paris Pass/Paris Museum Pass

If you’re visiting a lot of attractions, these passes may include transportation and entry to museums, potentially saving you both time and money.

Each method has its advantages depending on where you’re headed!

How to Stay Safe on Paris

Paris can be expensive, but with a few smart strategies, you can save money and still enjoy the best the city has to offer. Here’s how to stay on budget:

1. Use Public Transportation

  • Metro and Bus: The Paris Metro and buses are affordable and efficient. Buy a carnet of 10 single tickets (€2.10 each or €19.10 for a carnet).
  • Paris Visite Pass: If you’re staying for a few days, this pass offers unlimited travel on the metro, buses, RER, and trams.
  • Walk or Rent a Bike: Paris is very walkable, and using the Vélib’ bike-sharing system (€1.70 for a 24-hour access) can save you on transit costs while offering scenic views of the city.

2. Stay in Budget Accommodation

  • Hostels and Budget Hotels: Book through platforms like Hostelworld or Booking.com for the best rates. Consider staying in hostels, which are more affordable and often centrally located.
  • Airbnb or Vacation Rentals: These can be cheaper than hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a group or staying longer.
  • Stay Outside Tourist Areas: Neighborhoods outside the city center, like Montmartre or Canal Saint-Martin, often have more affordable accommodations.

3. Eat Smart

  • Picnics: Buy fresh food from markets or grocery stores like Franprix or Carrefour and enjoy a picnic in one of Paris’s beautiful parks like Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens.
  • Prix Fixe Menus: Many restaurants offer affordable prix fixe (fixed price) lunch menus, which can be much cheaper than dining at dinner.
  • Avoid Tourist Traps: Eat where locals eat and avoid restaurants near major tourist attractions, where prices are often inflated.
  • Boulangeries: Bakeries sell delicious sandwiches and pastries for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal. Try a baguette sandwich or quiche for lunch.

4. Free and Discounted Attractions

  • Free Museums: Many museums, including the Musée d’Art Moderne, offer free admission. National museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are free on the first Sunday of the month (except in peak season).
  • Explore Parks and Gardens: Paris has many beautiful parks, like Bois de Boulogne or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, which are free to enter.
  • Discounted Museum Passes: The Paris Museum Pass gives you access to over 60 museums and monuments for a flat fee. Plan your visits to maximize the value.

5. Take Free Walking Tours

Many companies offer free walking tours (tips encouraged), which are a great way to learn about Paris without spending money. Check out companies like Sandeman’s New Europe for daily tours.

6. Shop at Flea Markets and Vintage Stores

  • Visit Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, one of the largest flea markets in the world, for unique and affordable souvenirs.
  • Paris also has many vintage and second-hand shops, especially in the Le Marais area.

7. Avoid Expensive Airport Transfers

Instead of taking a taxi from the airport, use the RER B train from Charles de Gaulle Airport to central Paris, which is much cheaper. From Orly Airport, take the Orlybus or Orlyval train.

8. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Avoid the high season (June-August) when prices for flights and accommodations skyrocket. Travel during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for lower prices and fewer crowds.

9. Use Free Wi-Fi

Instead of paying for international data, take advantage of free Wi-Fi at cafes, restaurants, and public places. McDonald’s, Starbucks, and many parks offer free Wi-Fi.

10. Skip the Souvenirs

Tourist souvenirs in Paris can be pricey. Instead, bring home something practical like a baguette from a local bakery, French wine, or a postcard.

With these tips, you can enjoy all that Paris has to offer without overspending!

Where To Stay

When visiting Paris, where you stay can significantly impact your experience. Paris is divided into 20 districts, called arrondissements, which spiral out from the city center. Each area has its own unique charm, so your choice of accommodation should depend on your preferences, interests, and budget. Here’s a guide to help you decide where to stay based on different vibes, proximity to attractions, and budget.

  • Vibe: Bohemian, artsy, vibrant
  • Best For: Trendy travelers, art lovers, nightlife, LGBTQ+ friendly

Le Marais is one of the most popular areas for first-time visitors. Known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique shops, and hip cafes, it’s perfect for those who want to experience a mix of old and new Paris. It’s also home to the Picasso Museum and Place des Vosges, one of the most beautiful squares in the city.

Pros: Central location, walking distance to key attractions like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Louvre Museum. Excellent for food, shopping, and nightlife.

Cons: Can be busy and touristy, especially on weekends.

Where to Stay:

  • Vibe: Intellectual, sophisticated, historic
  • Best For: Culture enthusiasts, cafe-goers, art lovers

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is synonymous with Paris’s literary and artistic past. Home to famous cafes like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, this area was once frequented by writers like Hemingway and philosophers like Sartre. Today, it remains an upscale neighborhood filled with galleries, boutiques, and historic sites like the Luxembourg Gardens.

Pros: Quiet, elegant, central location with easy access to attractions like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.

Cons: Hotels tend to be expensive.

Where to Stay:

3. Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) – Historic and Lively

  • Vibe: Student-friendly, lively, intellectual
  • Best For: History buffs, budget travelers, younger visitors

The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’s oldest neighborhoods, filled with narrow, winding streets, and historic institutions like Sorbonne University and the Pantheon. It has a lively atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore.

Pros: Affordable, lively atmosphere with a central location. Close to Notre-Dame, the Pantheon, and the Luxembourg Gardens.

Cons: Can be noisy and crowded, especially near tourist spots.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Monge – A stylish boutique hotel with a cozy ambiance.
  • Hotel des Grandes Ecoles – A charming budget hotel with a garden.

4. Champs-Élysées and the 8th Arrondissement – Luxury and Glamour

  • Vibe: Elegant, upscale, glamorous
  • Best For: Luxury travelers, shoppers, first-time visitors

If you want to stay near one of the most famous streets in the world, Champs-Élysées is the place to be. The 8th arrondissement is home to high-end shopping, Michelin-starred restaurants, and iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Grand Palais.

Pros: Central location with access to luxury shopping and dining, easy access to major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.

Cons: Expensive and often crowded with tourists.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Plaza Athénée – One of the most iconic luxury hotels in Paris.
  • Le Bristol Paris – A historic 5-star hotel known for impeccable service.

5. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement) – Artistic and Romantic

  • Vibe: Bohemian, artistic, charming
  • Best For: Artists, romantics, those looking for a more authentic Parisian vibe

Montmartre, with its winding streets and artistic history, is a charming neighborhood perched on a hill overlooking Paris. This is where famous artists like Picasso and Monet once lived. The neighborhood is home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, offering panoramic views of the city.

Pros: Romantic and charming atmosphere, budget-friendly options, close to Sacre-Coeur and the artistic hub of Place du Tertre.

Cons: A bit further from central attractions and can be hilly, so expect a lot of walking.

Where to Stay:

  • Maison Souquet – A luxurious boutique hotel with an opulent, Moulin Rouge-inspired design.
  • Le Relais Montmartre – A charming hotel with traditional Parisian decor.

6. Le Marais - Luxury Hotels

For those wanting to stay in luxury while also being in the lively and artsy Le Marais, the options are equally inviting. You’ll get to enjoy Paris’s lively social scene in the surrounding streets, making this a great spot for those who love a blend of upscale comfort and artistic vibrancy.

Where to Stay:

  • Le Pavillon de la Reine – A luxury hotel located on Place des Vosges, with a classic, sophisticated vibe.

7. Bastille and 11th Arrondissement – Cool and Up-and-Coming

  • Vibe: Hipster, trendy, young
  • Best For: Young travelers, nightlife enthusiasts, foodies

The 11th arrondissement around Bastille has emerged as one of Paris’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods, known for its vibrant nightlife and hip dining scene. It’s a great choice for younger visitors who want to experience Paris’s trendy bars and restaurants without the high price tags of more central areas.

Pros: Affordable, fun nightlife, easy access to the Marais and Père Lachaise Cemetery.

Cons: Slightly further from major tourist attractions.

Where to Stay:

  • Mama Shelter Paris East – A hip, affordable hotel with a fun rooftop bar.
  • Hôtel Fabric – A stylish hotel set in a former textile factory.

8. Trocadéro (16th Arrondissement) – Quiet and Residential

  • Vibe: Quiet, upscale, residential
  • Best For: Families, quiet stays, Eiffel Tower views

The Trocadéro area offers some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower and is a quieter, more residential neighborhood. It’s ideal for families or those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere while still being close to major attractions.

Pros: Quiet, family-friendly, stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, close to museums like the Musée Marmottan Monet.

Cons: Less lively than other areas and a bit far from the city center.

Where to Stay:

  • Shangri-La Hotel Paris – A 5-star luxury hotel with unparalleled Eiffel Tower views.
  • Hôtel Eiffel Trocadéro – A boutique hotel with charming rooms, many offering views of the tower.

Budget-Friendly Options in Paris

If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry—there are plenty of great options for affordable accommodations, including hostels, budget hotels, and aparthotels in various neighborhoods:

  • Generator Paris – A trendy hostel in the 10th arrondissement, popular with younger travelers.
  • St. Christopher’s Inn – Located near Gare du Nord, it offers a social, budget-friendly stay with easy access to major sites.

Budget-friendly Paris trip:Money Saving Tips

Paris is an incredible city, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for saving money:

  1. Use Public Transport: The Paris Metro and buses are affordable and efficient. Consider buying a Paris Visite Pass for unlimited travel on public transport.

  2. Walk and Explore: Many of Paris’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in central neighborhoods. Walking can save on transport costs and also lets you experience the city more intimately.

  3. Picnic in Parks: Instead of dining out for every meal, pick up fresh bread, cheese, and other goodies from local markets and have a picnic in one of Paris’s many beautiful parks, like the Luxembourg Gardens or the Tuileries.

  4. Visit Free Attractions: Some museums and attractions are free on certain days. For example, the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris is free, and many national museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

  5. Explore Markets: Paris has a range of markets where you can find delicious and affordable food. Check out Marché des Enfants Rouges or Marché Bastille for great deals.

  6. Eat Where Locals Eat: Avoid touristy spots and look for cafes and bistros where locals eat. They often have better prices and more authentic food.

  7. Buy Tickets in Advance: For major attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, buying tickets online in advance can save you time and sometimes money.

  8. Stay in a Budget Accommodation: Consider staying in hostels, budget hotels, or vacation rentals, which can be more affordable than high-end hotels.

  9. Use a Paris Pass Wisely: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, a Paris Pass can save you money. Just make sure it includes the places you want to visit.

  10. Learn Basic French Phrases: Speaking a little French can help you navigate the city better and possibly get better deals or recommendations from locals.

Enjoy your trip to Paris! If you have any specific interests or plans, let me know, and I can tailor more tips for you.

The Best Booking Resources

Skyscanner – My top choice for flight searches, Skyscanner covers a wide range of smaller websites and budget airlines that bigger platforms often overlook. It’s the go-to site for finding the best flight deals.

Hostelworld – When it comes to booking hostels, Hostelworld stands out with its vast inventory, user-friendly interface, and great availability. It’s the top platform for budget travelers seeking affordable accommodations.

SafetyWing – Designed with digital nomads and long-term travelers in mind, SafetyWing provides flexible and affordable travel insurance. Their monthly plans are affordable, and their claims process is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for extended trips.

LifeStraw – Known for its reusable water bottles with built-in filtration, LifeStraw is essential for ensuring clean, safe drinking water on the go.

Booking.com – A comprehensive booking site offering consistently low prices. With a huge selection of affordable accommodations, Booking.com frequently has the best rates compared to other booking platforms.

Get Your Guide – This online marketplace is a treasure trove for tours and experiences. Whether you’re interested in walking tours, cooking classes, or art-focused excursions, Get Your Guide has you covered with a wide variety of options in cities around the globe.

Unbound Merino – Offering lightweight, durable, and easy-to-care-for travel clothing, Unbound Merino makes packing light a breeze without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Top Travel Credit Cards – Earning points is a smart way to reduce travel costs. These travel credit cards are perfect for accumulating points to score free flights and accommodation.

BlaBlaCar – A ride-sharing platform that connects you with vetted local drivers, allowing you to share rides and contribute to gas costs. It’s a cheaper and more social alternative to buses or trains.

Take Walks – Specializing in walking tours, Take Walks offers exclusive access to landmarks and attractions that are often hard to reach. Their knowledgeable guides make these tours among the best in France.