If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to experience the city of lights without breaking the bank, then look no further! Paris is known for being an expensive city, but there are plenty of free things to do that will make your trip unforgettable. From strolling along the Seine River to visiting iconic landmarks like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Paris without spending a dime. In this blog post, we’ll be sharing some of the best free activities to do in Paris in 2023. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore everything that this magical city has to offer – for free!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Paris and Free Activities
Are you ready to indulge in a city full of endless possibilities? Look no further than Paris, the city of light! But don’t let the allure of the city’s high-end fashion and Michelin-starred restaurants fool you – experiencing Paris on a budget is totally feasible.
Immerse yourself in the culture and charm of Paris for free with these top free activities.
Explore the city’s parks and gardens, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, Jardin des Tuileries, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Take a romantic stroll or a picnic with friends while admiring the greenery and stunning historic monuments.
Discover the city’s colorful neighborhoods by foot, and keep your eyes peeled for beautiful street art, quaint cafes, and charming markets. From Le Marais to Montmartre, there is no shortage of beautiful sights and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Catch a free exhibition in Paris’s many art galleries and institutes like Musée d’Art Moderne and Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature.
Finally, no trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the city’s impressive landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Panthéon, and the Arc de Triomphe.
Intrigued yet? Stay tuned for more budget-friendly tips and tricks to make the most out of your trip to Paris!
Exploring the City’s Hidden Gems
Paris has so much to offer, and some of the best experiences don’t cost a dime. Here are some hidden gems worth exploring in the City of Light:
– The outdoor sculpture garden offers breathtaking views of the Seine and beautiful sculptures that you can enjoy for free.
– For an amazing panoramic view of Paris, climb up to the Galerie Lafayette & Printemps Rooftops. It’s free to go up to the rooftop and soak in the views, but be prepared for long lines.
– If you’re a history buff, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is a must-visit. It’s free to enter the cathedral, but there may be a line during peak hours.
– Paris has several free museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Picasso Museum. These museums are a great option for budget travelers who still want to experience some of the city’s famous art collections.
– Take a stroll through the charming streets of Champ-Elysees, known for its elegant shops and cafes. It’s free to walk around and people-watch, or window-shop the designer boutiques.
– Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a beautiful public park that’s free to enter. The park has several walking trails, a lake, and a beautiful pavilion that serves as a venue for live music concerts.
These hidden gems will give you a fresh perspective of Paris and will satisfy your wanderlust without breaking the bank. Don’t hesitate to explore these beautiful and underrated sights on your next trip to the City of Light.
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1. Enjoy the best view of the Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars and the Trocadero.
At night, the Tower lights up and sparkles (for 5 minutes every hour). A show not to be missed.
2. Enjoy a moment of serenity and calm at Notre Dame Cathedral, during morning Mass. There will be only the faithful and some curious morning, which changes to thousands of tourists during the day.
3. Find the beauty of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the symbol of Montmartre, at 22h in calm, the crowds have left the place. During the day, consider climbing into the dome for a magnificent view.
4. Come and compete with the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Victory of Samothrace at the Louvre, free on the first Sunday of the month between October and March. Go through the entrance of the Lions Gate to avoid endless queues.
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5. Discover the Impressionists of the Musée d’Orsay and contemporary artists at the Center Georges Pompidou for free every first Sunday of the month, all year round. A visit at the end of the day is better to feel a little more alone.
6. Lose yourself in the beauty and grandeur of the Palace of Versailles and its gardens. Entrance to the castle is free the first Sunday of every month between November and March. At the same time, the gardens are free every day. From April to October, the gardens are free Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (unless it falls on a holiday).
7. The Saint Germain des Prés church and a walk in the district of Saint Germain: One of the oldest churches (over 1000 years old). Then do not miss rue de Buci, Place Fürstenberg, rue Saint André des Arts for their lively atmosphere.
8. A stroll in the streets of Montmartre: the “village in Paris”, with its artists on the Place du Tertre, its vineyard, and its mills.
9. The Lutèce Arena and a stroll in the Latin Quarter: Do not miss Rue Mouffetard, Place du Pantheon, and rue Saint Séverin for their entertainment and history.
10. The Place des the Vosges and a walk in the Marais: The centers of interest are many, including the Town Hall, mansions, and the Jewish neighborhood of the rue des Rosiers.
11. Enjoy the perspective on the famous Historic Ax from the Jardin des Tuileries, a historic French park located between the Louvre and the Champs-Elysees.
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12. Discover the artistic and architectural wonders of the Petit Palais. The magnificent Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris houses masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rodin, Monet, and many others.
13. Go in search of the mysteries of Saint Sulpice Church, the largest church in Paris, where Victor Hugo (author of Notre Dame de Paris) married. The visit to the towers and the crypt (on reservation) is also free.
14. Meet one of the patrons of Paris, Sainte Geneviève, at Saint Etienne du Mont Church, also interesting for its atypical architecture.
15. Relive the history of Paris at the Musée Carnavalet, a museum located in a magnificent mansion of the sixteenth century.
16. Admire the works of Picasso, Matisse, or Braque at the Museum of Modern Art of the City of Paris, one of the two major museums of modern art in the capital.
17. Dive into the Middle Ages at the Cluny Museum or the splendors of Asia at the Guimet Museum, both free on the first Sunday of the month, all year long.
18. All the museums managed by the City of Paris (Romantic Life, Cognac-Jay, Zadkine, Cernusci, Victor Hugo, Balzac) as well as Atelier Brancusi are completely free for their permanent collections.
19. Discover unsuspected cultural sites in Paris during the Nuit Blanche. In October, follow the marked routes for a night of cultural entertainment.
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20. Enter monuments that are generally closed to the public (the residence of the President, the Town Hall …) during the Heritage Days which take place every year on the 3rd weekend of September.
21. Come live Parisian museums differently by staying overnight during the Night of the Museums. In May, many museums open a large part of the night, some even offering special events for the occasion.
22. Attend the organ recitals of Notre Dame for free, every Saturday at 8 pm in the cathedral.
23. Enjoy the summer atmosphere of Paris Plage in summer: the banks of the Seine turn into the beach, with sand, umbrellas, and deck chairs, between mid-July and mid-August.
24. Explore the Serres d’Auteuil, home to exotic plants, birds, and flowers. What to amaze the children!
25. Come and glide on the ephemeral ice rinks of Paris: in winter, several outdoor rinks make their appearance, the most popular being the one on the forecourt of the Town Hall. It’s free if you bring your own skates.
26. Enjoy a natural moment outside the urban context at the Ferme de Paris: An educational farm in the Bois de Vincennes with cows, pigs, goats, and even rabbits.
27. Make your children happy by taking them to the Garden of Dunes and Winds: A large free play area for children, outdoors, and in the heart of the garden of La Villette.
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SHOPPING
28. Admire the boutiques and art deco cupola of Galeries Lafayette. And do not miss the panoramic view of Paris and the roofs of the Opéra Garnier from its rooftop terrace.
29. Enjoy the panoramic view of Paris from the Terrasse du Printemps. The rooftop of this luxurious department store is a great place for a drink or a meal.
30. Catch your next favorites at the Saint Ouen flea every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. It is the largest flea market in Paris.
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31. Nothing better than a traditional market to find the best ingredients. The Marché d’Aligre is one of the most famous and lively markets in Paris. Unlike monuments and museums, when it’s crowded it’s the best, so get there before lunch!
32. Travel the alleys of the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest market in Paris. It’s perfect for weekend brunch!
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33. Go through the Passage des Panoramas, one of the busiest covered walkways in Paris, with many restaurants and shops. Stop for a coffee, a gluten-free meal, or some gyozas.
34. Admire the beauty of Galerie Vivienne, a covered walkway housing luxury fashion labels, cafes, and a few bookshops
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35. Enjoy a moment of dreams at the top of the Montmartre hill: Sit on the steps in front of the Sacré Coeur and enjoy the view, the music, and a nice little bottle of wine or champagne!
36. Discover the magnificent view of the Seine and Notre Dame that we have from the Terrace of the Institute of the Arab World. For this, head to the top floor of this modern building in the Latin Quarter.
37. Embrace the Pont Alexandre III, the most beautiful bridge in Paris, also offering a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower, the dome of the Invalides, and the glass roof of the Grand Palais.
38. Stroll along the banks of the Seine: A fast track became pedestrian street at the edge of the Seine, with bars, activities, and cultural events of all kinds.
39. Enjoy the unique topography of Buttes Chaumont: its hills, its waterfall, and its lake make it a pleasant place to escape. The highest point offers a beautiful view of Montmartre …
40. Sit back and relax in the Jardin du Luxembourg, a park popular with Parisians with French and English gardens.
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41. Search for the graves of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, or Edith Piaf at Père Lachaise Cemetery, the eternal resting place of many French and international celebrities.
42. Take a stroll on the Promenade Plantée and the Petite Ceinture: These old railway tracks have been transformed into pleasant walks raised in the 12th and 15th districts.
43. Admire the panoramic view of Paris from the top of Belleville Park: The roofs of Paris are at your fingertips.
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44. Live an unforgettable moment during the fireworks of July 14, launched every year on this date from the Eiffel Tower. A show of sound and light not to be missed.
45. Immerse yourself in Parisian life by watching a cinema classic lying in the grass at the La Villette open-air cinema: From mid-July to mid-August. Do not forget the wine, bread, and cheese to make it even more authentic.
46. Go out and party like all Parisians during the Festival of Music: On June 21, stroll through the streets of Paris to listen to the many musicians (amateurs and pros) who play all night in the street.
47. Put on your rollerblades and discover Paris during Pari Roller: follow the crowd through the streets of Paris every Friday at 22h.
Hacks for Budget-Friendly Options
Paris may be known for its luxury and expensive lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the City of Lights on a budget. Here are some hacks to make your visit to Paris affordable:
1. Picnic in the park – Eating out at restaurants can quickly add up, but Paris has a beautiful selection of parks and gardens where you can enjoy a budget-friendly picnic. Grab some wine, cheese, and a baguette from a local market and spend a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine.
2. Public transportation – One of the easiest ways to save money in Paris is by using public transportation. The metro is affordable and efficient, and you can purchase a carnet of 10 tickets at a discounted rate. Avoid expensive taxi rides and enjoy the sights of the city from underground.
3. Free events and attractions – Believe it or not, there are plenty of free things to do in Paris. Take advantage of free museum admission on the first Sunday of every month, catch a free concert or show at the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, or visit the many stunning churches and cathedrals that are open to the public, such as Notre Dame or Sacré-Cœur.
By using these hacks, you can stretch your budget further and still experience the magic of Paris. Remember, sometimes the best experiences in Paris are the ones that don’t cost a thing.
Unforgettable Views of Eiffel Tower
As one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower is always at the top of any Paris itinerary. And what better way to experience this magnificent structure than by getting an amazing view of it? Here are some unforgettable views of the Eiffel Tower that will leave you mesmerized.
1. Trocadero Gardens – Located across the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower, this spot is one of the most popular for photos. Offering a panoramic view of the tower, Trocadero Gardens is the perfect vantage point for taking breathtaking shots.
2. Montparnasse Tower – The Montparnasse Tower may not be the most attractive building in Paris, but it sure does offer a spectacular view of the city, including the Eiffel Tower. Head up to the 56th floor and enjoy the 360-degree view that stretches all the way to the horizon.
3. Arc de Triomphe – A symbol of French victory, the Arc de Triomphe offers a stunning view of Paris from its rooftop. With the Eiffel Tower in the distance, this spot lets you appreciate the beauty of both monuments at once.
4. Champ de Mars – The Eiffel Tower stands tall in the middle of this vast public park, and what better way to admire it than by lounging on the grass around it? Bring a picnic and soak up the views while you relax.
Don’t miss out on these unforgettable views of the Eiffel Tower while in Paris. And remember, these activities are all budget-friendly, proving that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the City of Light. Keep reading for more tips on how to enjoy Paris without breaking the bank.
Museums and Monuments to Visit
Paris is a city steeped in history and culture, with an abundance of museums and monuments to explore. In this section, we’ll highlight some of the best places to visit for free.
1. The Louvre – This world-renowned museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history. With over 35,000 works of art on display, including the iconic Mona Lisa, the Louvre is a cultural jewel that’s sure to impress. And the best part? Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month!
2. Centre Pompidou – National Museum of Modern Art – A visit to this museum is a must for all contemporary art lovers. Featuring works by the likes of Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol, the Centre Pompidou is a unique and vibrant space that celebrates the best and brightest in modern art.
3. The Picasso Museum – Located in the Marais district, this museum houses an extensive collection of works by famous Spanish artist. Visitors can view over 5,000 of Picasso’s pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
4. Sainte-Chapelle – This stunning Gothic chapel is a true hidden gem in Paris. With towering stained-glass windows that showcase biblical scenes, Sainte-Chapelle is a sacred space that’s both awe-inspiring and peaceful.
5. Notre-Dame Cathedral – Although currently closed for restoration, Notre-Dame Cathedral remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. Visitors can still admire the stunning facade and take in the history and cultural significance of this ancient cathedral from the outside.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or a history buff, Paris has plenty of museums and monuments to explore. And with so many free options available, there’s no reason not to indulge in a bit of culture during your visit to the City of Light!
Offbeat Tourist Attractions in France
Paris may be known for its famous landmarks, but there are also many offbeat tourist attractions that are worth discovering. Here are six unique places to check out during your visit to France:
1. The Catacombs – Venture below the streets of Paris to explore the eerie maze of tunnels filled with human bones.
2. Père Lachaise Cemetery – Pay homage to the famous figures buried in this hauntingly beautiful cemetery, including Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison.
3. La Maison Rose – This iconic pink house in Montmartre has been a source of inspiration for many artists, including Pablo Picasso.
4. Le Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature – This quirky museum is dedicated to storytelling and conservation with exhibits that range from real taxidermy animals to art installations.
5. The Grevin Wax Museum – Get a glimpse of French history and pop culture through the incredible wax figures at this museum.
6. The Musée des Arts Forains – This private museum is a treasure trove of antique carnival rides, games and objects, offering a unique look into the past.
These offbeat attractions may not be as well-known as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, but they offer a glimpse into the unique culture and history of France. Plus, they’re all budget-friendly options for travelers on a budget. So venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Paris and beyond.
Perfect Sunset Spots in Paris
As the sun sets behind the Eiffel Tower, Paris transforms into a city of golden hues and romantic ambiance. Make sure you check out these incredible sunset spots during your trip to Paris.
1. Sacré-Coeur: Located on top of Montmartre hill, the Sacré-Coeur basilica offers a breathtaking view of the Parisian skyline as the sun sets.
2. Seine River: Take a walk along the Seine River at sunset to witness the city’s famous bridges and monuments cast in a warm, golden light.
3. The Rooftop of Printemps Haussmann: For an unforgettable champagne-filled sunset experience, head to the rooftop terrace of Printemps Haussmann department store.
4. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: This beautiful park is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the stunning artificial lake, waterfalls, and hilltop temple.
5. Place du Trocadéro: With its stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, this square is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
6. Jardin des Tuileries: Take a stroll through the Tuileries Garden and watch as the surrounding monuments and sculptures are transformed by the setting sun.
7. Canal Saint-Martin: Head to the canal for a cozy and charming sunset experience, with canal-side cafés and social gathering spots that come alive at night.
Make the most of your time in Paris by visiting these perfect sunset spots. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the magical moments and ambiance that only a Parisian sunset can provide.
Alternative Hipster Guide to Paris
For those who want to experience the trendier and edgier side of Paris, this Alternative Hipster Guide is just for you. From quirky boutiques to cool underground bars, this guide will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of Paris’ hipster culture.
1. Shop at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
This flea market in the north of Paris is a hidden gem and a paradise for vintage lovers. Here, you’ll find everything from antique furniture to retro clothing to unusual trinkets.
2. Explore the Street Art Scene in Belleville
Wander through the streets of Belleville, a neighborhood that has become a hub for street art in Paris. Here, you’ll find colorful murals and graffiti on almost every corner.
3. Visit the offbeat Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
This museum is dedicated to hunting and nature and is housed in a stunning 17th-century mansion. It’s not your typical museum, but it will definitely leave an impression.
4. Dance the Night Away at Le Baron
This exclusive club has been a staple of Paris’ nightlife scene since 2003. It’s known for its eclectic music and artistic crowd, making it the perfect place to let loose and have a good time.
5. Sip on Cocktails at Dirty Dick
Don’t be put off by the name – Dirty Dick is actually one of the coolest bars in Paris. With its tropical décor and inventive cocktails, it’s a must-visit for any hipster traveler.
6. Visit the Crypte Archéologique du Parvis de Notre-Dame
This underground archaeological site is hidden beneath the plaza in front of Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s a fascinating look into Paris’ ancient past and an offbeat tourist attraction that’s worth a visit.
7. Browse the Vintage Shops on Rue de la Verrerie
This street in the trendy Marais neighborhood is lined with vintage boutiques and funky fashion stores. It’s the perfect spot for a shopping spree with a unique twist.
8. Grab Some Street Food at Marché des Enfants Rouges
This market in the heart of the Marais is Paris’ oldest covered market and has become a hotspot for street food. From Moroccan tagine to Japanese ramen, you’ll find a variety of international flavors to savor.
Whether you’re a creative spirit, a music lover, or a trendsetter, this Alternative Hipster Guide to Paris will show you that there’s more to Paris than just the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. So put on your coolest outfit, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the city’s hippest spots.
Easter Egg Hunts 2023 in Paris and Île-de-France
Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate it than by indulging in an Easter egg hunt in the beautiful city of Paris and the Île-de-France region! Here are some exciting options for Easter egg hunts in 2023:
1. Egg Hunt at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: The annual Easter egg hunt at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte takes place in its magnificent gardens. This year’s hunt guarantees a fun-filled adventure for children and adults alike.
2. Easter Egg Hunt at the Palace of Versailles: The Palace of Versailles’ Easter egg hunt is a grand affair, with hidden eggs and treasures throughout the gardens. Grab your baskets and take your chances in this year’s exciting hunt.
3. Easter at Disneyland Paris: If you have kids with you, Disneyland Paris is the perfect place to celebrate Easter. Enjoy the springtime decoration at the park, and search for hidden Easter eggs with Mickey Mouse and his friends.
4. Egg-Citing Hunt at Parc des Chanteraines: This year, Parc des Chanteraines is inviting kids between the ages of 2 and 12 years to embark on a fun-filled Easter egg hunt. With a variety of egg hunts and activities available, this will be a great bonding experience for the whole family.
5. Easter Egg Hunt at Jardin d’Acclimatation: In the stunning Jardin d’Acclimatation, young visitors can enjoy an exciting Easter treasure hunt. The experience includes face painting, magic shows, and even a visit by the Easter Bunny himself!
6. Hunt for the Golden Egg at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont as your kids hunt for the Golden Egg. There’s even a celebratory picnic in honor of the occasion.
7. Chocolate Hunt at Parc de la Villette: Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Parc de la Villette offers a unique opportunity for treasure hunters. With hidden eggs scattered throughout the park, children will have a blast looking for them while enjoying the beautiful scenery of this green oasis in the heart of Paris.
8. Egg Hunt at the Musée de Montmartre: Like Paris itself, the Musée de Montmartre is steeped in history and charm. Join in the fun with an Easter egg hunt in this uniquely beautiful and historic location.
9. Easter Egg Hunt at Jardin Albert Kahn: Discover the wonders of Jardin Albert Kahn as you take part in the fun Easter egg hunt with your family. The park’s stunning beauty and historic architecture make for a memorable time.
Easter egg hunting is an age-old tradition that brings families and friends together. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to Paris and Île-de-France region, take advantage of these free events and make lasting memories with your loved ones. Happy Hunting!
Final Tips for Free Things to Do in Paris.
After exploring all the free activities, hidden gems, and offbeat tourist attractions in Paris, it’s time to wrap up your trip with some final tips:
1. Take advantage of free museum days – many Paris museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
2. Explore Paris’s beautiful parks and gardens, such as Jardin des Plantes and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
3. Take a free walking tour – many local companies offer free walking tours of Paris’s neighborhoods.
4. Visit the famous Notre Dame Cathedral – though the interior visiting is not free, the outside is still stunning to see.
5. Check out the free events and festivals happening during your stay – Paris hosts many free events throughout the year.
6. Walk along Canal Saint-Martin and enjoy the picturesque views.
7. Take a free yoga or fitness class in one of Paris’s parks.
8. Stroll around the charming Marais district and admire the stunning architecture.
9. Watch the sunset over the city from the steps of Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre.
10. Finally, don’t forget to indulge in some of Paris’s famous street food like crepes and croissants.
By following these final tips, your trip to Paris will go beyond just the typical tourist attractions, and you’ll experience the city like a true local. So, pack your bag, grab your camera, and get ready for a truly unforgettable trip to the City of Light.
