19 of The Best Free Things to Do in Paris

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Last Updated on December 27, 2023 by sydabroad

Keep reading to find out all of the best free things to do in Paris, France.

Bonjour! We’re headed to Paris in today’s blog. In this article, you’ll find all of the best free things to do in Paris. 

Paris is a city that everyone dreams of visiting, but it can be rather expensive. I’ve visited a few times now and it is possible to travel to Paris on a tighter budget. You just need to know all the best budget travel tips. 

Whether you are visiting Paris for a week or a weekend, this guide will be helpful for your trip. Expect a list of the best free things to do in the city, travel tips for visiting Paris on a budget, the best affordable places to stay in Paris, and a map with all of the spots mentioned in this article. 

The first time I visited Paris was with the tour company, EF Ultimate Break. They offer group tours all around the world. I love traveling this way because it takes the stress out of traveling. You dont have to plan anything. 

If you are interested in a tour with EF Ultimate Break, browse trips here and receive $100 if you use this link. 

Looking for more European guides? 

• How to Pack Light and Fashionable for Europe
• Paris Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do in Paris 
• 11+ Best Paris Instagram Spots

This post is all about the best free things to do in Paris. 

Free Things to Do in Paris – The Basics 

Currency = Euro 

The currency in France is the euro. (EUR)

1 USD = .90 Euro

Many places in Paris will accept card payments but I find it helpful to keep a bit of cash for small purchases. Cash is really useful if you need to tip a guide, split a restaurant bill, or shop at a local market. Also note, that there are plenty of ATMs throughout the city. 

Language = French

The national language is French. However, you will find that some people speak English since Paris is a popular tourist destination. I do suggest brushing up on your French to be respectful to the locals. It’s good to know basic French phrases to get around the city. I use the Duolingo app to learn new languages. 

Phone & Internet  

From my experience, I never had an issue with the phone and internet in Paris. There was cell service just about everywhere. And a majority of the cafes and restaurants had wifi available. Every hotel and hostel should have wifi as well. 

I suggest purchasing an eSIM for international travel for fast and affordable data all over the world. I love using Airalo when traveling! Check out Airalo here.

Daily Budget

Paris is not a cheap city to visit. But it is possible to do it on a budget. As for a low to mid-range budget expect to spend about 100 to 160 euros per day. If you’re not on a budget, the sky is the limit in Paris. 

Tipping in Paris

Bills in France will include a service charge so tipping is not expected in most places. If you do decide to tip after a great meal, in general, 5% to 10% is good. However, make sure to tip your guide if you partake in an activity like a free walking tour. 

Can You Drink The Tap Water?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Paris. 

The Best Free Things to Do in Paris, France 

1. Walk Along The Seine

The Seine is the main river that runs through Paris. Pick up an espresso and enjoy your morning or afternoon walking along the Seine. Enjoy scenic views of the Eiffel Tower and the river. You can also have a picnic on the banks of the Seine.  It is a must to add to your list of things to do in Paris.  

2. Free Walking Tour in Paris  

A free walking tour is the best way to start your time in a new city. You can do your walking tour or book a free tour online or through your accommodation. 

Typically many hotels and hostels will offer walking tours. You can also do a Google search to see what walking tours are offered during the day of your visit. They will have a meeting point and all you have to do is show up! It’s encouraged to tip your guide at the end. 

3. Picnic Near The Eiffel Tower 

A picnic at the Eiffel Tower is a must when in Paris. Pick up fresh produce, a baguette, cheese, and a bottle of wine from either Rue Cler Market Street or Marché Saxe-Breteuil and head to the Eiffel Tower. 

The best place for a picnic at the Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, a nice grassy area near the tower. 

4. Explore The Free Museums in Paris 

If you are in Paris on the first Sunday of any month, many museums will be free to enter. All state museums are free for everyone on the first Sunday of the month. 

I’ve listed a few free museums in Paris below.

 Free Museums in Paris: 

• Musée Carnavalet
• Modern Art Museum of the City of Paris
• The Orangerie
• Musée Bourdelle

Pro-Tip: If there is a particular museum you’d like to visit, do a Google search to see if they offer any free entrance days. 

5. Admire The Arc de Triomphe 

You can visit the Arc de Triomphe for free. Admire it from afar or go through the tunnel under the highway to visit it up close. 

Going to the top of the Arc de Triomphe requires a ticket that costs 13 euros, but if you are an EU citizen aged 18 to 25 it’s free.  

6. Wander Along Champs-Élysées

Next, it’s time for window shopping on the famous street, Champs-Élysées. This is one of the most well-known avenues in the world. It’s known for its luxury shops, amazing cafes, and theaters.   

7. See Notre Dame

You’ve got to visit the famous Notre Dame while you are in Paris. This is the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages. You can freely explore the exterior of the cathedral and in December of 2024 Notre Dame will re-open its doors and you’ll be able to visit inside. 

8. Tour the Belleville Neighborhood 

Belleville is a lively neighborhood in the northeastern part of Paris. You’ll find vibrant street art, cultural diversity, a range of cafes and restaurants, local shops, music, and markets. 

9. Jardin du Luxembourg

Also known as the Luxembourg Gardens, is a serene public park in the center of Paris. This is a great place to get a break from the city. Here, you can visit Luxembourg Palace and see beautiful sculptures. 

10. Watch The Eiffel Tower Sparkle

Watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle in person is one of the best free things to do in Paris. The tower sparkles every hour on the hour after sunset until 1 AM. The sparkles last for 5 minutes. 

11. Visit The Sacré Cœur Basilica for Free 

This is a prominent basilica in Paris located in Montmartre at the highest point in the city. You’ll find panoramic views of Paris from here. the Sacré Cœur is known for its Romano-Byzantine architectural style and religious significance. It’s open from 6:30 am to 10:30 pm and entrance is free

12. See The Louvre Pyramid 

A standard ticket to the Louvre costs 15 euros. If you want to see the iconic Louvre Pyramid, you can do this for free. It’s an architectural masterpiece.

If you want to visit the Louvre for free, it’s free for anyone under 18, EU citizens from ages 18 to 25 and it’s free for everyone on the first Friday of each month after 6 PM except for July and August. 

Check their website to find out what other visitors are eligible for free admission. 

13. Colorful Streets of Rue Crémieux 

If you are looking for an Instagrammable spot in Paris, visit Rue Crémieux. It’s a beautiful street located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. You’ll find the prettiest painted house fronts and charming architecture

14. Tuileries Garden

The Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) is a historic garden in Paris located near the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde. The garden was created in the 16th century. There are numerous statues and art throughout the garden and it’s a popular spot for cultural events and art exhibitions to be held. 

15. Stroll Along Canal Saint Martin 

Canal Saint Martin is a picturesque waterway with beautiful bridges and tree-lined pathways. The perfect place for a picnic or an afternoon walk. You’ll also find charming waterfront cafes along the canal. 

16. Hunt for Emily in Paris Filming Locations 

If you are a fan of the show Emily in Paris, this is a fun way to spend an afternoon in the city. Here are a few locations the show was filmed at: 

• Pont Alexandre III
• La Maison Rose
• Place de l’Estrapade
• Palais Garnier
• Jardin du Palais Royal

17. Wander Around Montmartre 

Montmartre is a great area to explore in Paris. It’s known for its artistic history, nightclub district, and the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur on its summit. 

Get lost wandering the charming streets of Montmartre and see artists at work at the Place du Tertre.  

18. Colonnes de Buren

You’ve probably seen this art installation all over Instagram. Colonnes de Buren, also known as “Les Deux Plateaux” is a contemporary art installation created by French artist Daniel Buren in 1986. 

It consists of black and white striped columns and you’re encouraged to walk among these columns. It’s a unique spot to check out and is also one of the best Paris Instagram spots. 

19. Celebrate Bastille Day (in July) 

Bastille Day is France’s independence day celebrated on July 14th each year. It’s a national celebration in France with parades, festivities, events, and fireworks all around the country. 

Paris is one of the best places to celebrate Bastille Day to see the iconic parades and events around the city. There are even Eiffel Tower fireworks.   

Transportation in Paris

How to Get to Paris 

You will likely be flying into the city or taking a train. There are many train stations and airports surrounding the city but here are the most common. 

Airports

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): The largest international airport in France and located about 30 minutes away from the city center. 

Paris-Orly Airport (ORY): The second international airport in Paris, located about 20 to 30 minutes from the city center. 

Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA): Typically used for charter and low-cost airlines this airport is located near the city of Beauvais. This is where I flew into and although it’s farther from Paris (about an hour and a half drive) buses will take you right into the city center. 

How to Get Around Paris

You will do a lot of walking in this city. If you aren’t within walking distance of certain locations, the metro is usually the most efficient way to get around. There is a lot of traffic in Paris so taxis and Uber do take a while to get from place to place. 

Affordable Places to Stay in Paris

I suggest staying in a hostel. They are the best for budget travel. They are also a great way to meet people and there is always something going on.

I recommend using Hostel World to book your hostels. This way you can check out real reviews to ensure you get the best place.

I stayed at Jo&Joe Paris – Gentilly and I had a great stay.

Hostel Recommendations in Paris

• Joe&Joe Paris – Gentilly
• Le Village Montemarte by Hiphophostels
• Résidence Internationale de Paris
• The People Hostel – Paris 12

Booking.com

Affordable Places to Eat in Paris

• Cloud Cakes
• Breizh Cafe
• Bistrot Victoires
• Chez Gladines
• Hank Burger
• Pizza Rossi
• L’as Du Fallafel

Map – Free Things to Do in Paris 

Paris Travel Tips 

• Stay outside of town and use Hostel World to find an affordable place.
• Use the metro to get around. A single metro ticket costs 2 euros and a day pass costs 12 euros. 
• Eat at local markets.
• Visit the museums that are free on the first Sunday of the month.  

I hope you enjoyed this guide to all the best free things to do in Paris! If you have any questions about planning your trip to Paris feel free to comment below or DM me on Instagram.

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