Yes, itâs possibleâand completely worth it.
Visiting Paris on a budget isnât just doableâitâs one of the most rewarding ways to experience the City of Light. You donât have to drain your bank account to indulge in croissants, romantic strolls, Eiffel Tower sparkles, and art around every corner. With a bit of planning and insider tips, you can soak up the full Parisian charm without overspending.
This 7-day itinerary is your go-to guide for budget travel in Paris. Weâve packed in free attractions, affordable eats, and wallet-friendly tips to help you enjoy every moment without the money stress.
Day 1: Montmartre + Local Flavor
Start your trip with old-world charm and iconic views.
Wander Montmartre: stroll the cobblestone streets, pass the Moulin Rouge (snap a photoâno pricey ticket needed), and take in the bohemian energy.
SacrĂ©-CĆur Basilica: free to enter, and the panoramic view from the top? Pure magic.
Budget Lunch: grab a baguette sandwich and pastry from a local boulangerie, deliciously under âŹ5.
Place du Tertre: watch artists sketch portraits or take home an affordable piece of local art.
Sunset picnic at Square Louise Michel: with supplies from Carrefour or Monoprix, enjoy a front-row seat to Parisâs golden hour.
Day 2: Classic Paris
See the icons without spending a fortune.
Seine River Walk: stroll by Notre Dame, admire the bridges, and feel the pulse of the city.
Sainte-Chapelle: entry is ~âŹ11, and the stained-glass windows are unforgettable.
Latin Quarter Lunch: plenty of âŹ15 menus with appetizer, main, and dessert.
PanthĂ©on: free for EU residents under 26. Otherwise, an affordable peek into Franceâs legendary history.
Eiffel Tower from TrocadĂ©ro: skip the elevatorâwatch it light up hourly from one of Parisâs best free viewpoints.
Day 3: Museum Day
Big culture. Small budget.
The Louvre: free on first Sundays (OctâMar) or always for under-18s + EU citizens under 26. Book online (âŹ17) for other times to skip the line.
Lunch Nearby: try Rue de Rivoliâs paninis or a quick crĂȘpe from a street cart.
MusĂ©e dâOrsay: Thursdays offer discounted evening entry after 6 p.m. See Van Gogh, Monet, and Degas in a former train station with jaw-dropping architecture.
Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles
Grand day, not a grand price.
Getting There: RER train (~âŹ7 round trip).
Versailles Gardens: free on most days and the perfect spot for a picnic.
Palace Admission: free on first Sundays (NovâMar); otherwise ~âŹ18
Back in Paris: unwind with a âŹ3ââŹ4 cafĂ© crĂšme at a neighborhood bistro.
Day 5: Explore the Local Side
Live like a localâwithout the tourist rush.
Canal Saint-Martin: chill walk through a stylish, less touristy neighborhood.
Cheap Breakfast: croissant + coffee from a corner bakery for under âŹ4.
MarchĂ© Bastille: fresh fruit, hot crepes, rotisserie chickenâeverything delicious, without the markup.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: hills, grottos, waterfalls, and stunning viewsâall free.
Evening Concert: many churches, like Saint-Eustache, offer free classical music nights.
Day 6: Food and Flea Markets
Eat well, shop smart.
MarchĂ© aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: Parisâs biggest flea marketâperfect for vintage finds and souvenirs.
Place des Vosges: one of the cityâs most beautiful historic squares.
Lunch on the Go: grab falafel at LâAs du Fallafel in Le Marais (~âŹ10).
Le Village Saint-Paul: peaceful stroll with antique stores and tucked-away charm.
Day 7: Final Day Wrap
Savor the momentsâand take a piece of Paris home.
CafĂ© Morning: sip slowly and people-watchâvery Parisian.
Montparnasse Tower: cheaper than the Eiffel Tower and just as striking for skyline views.
Rue Cler Market: stock up on cheeses, wine, and local treats for the trip home.
Champs-ĂlysĂ©es Walk: window-shop your way to the Arc de Triomphe.
Final Snack: one last quiche or sandwich from your favorite boulangerie.
Optional Boat Cruise: budget Seine cruises start at ~âŹ10âan elegant goodbye.
Bonus budget tips.
đ Download Foresyte. Plan, coordinate and discover from community travelers.
đ Navigo week pass: âŹ30 for unlimited Metro/bus rides.
đ Drink tap water: safe and freeâask for une carafe dâeau at restaurants.
đ Do the free stuff: parks, churches, street performances, and markets make the best memories.
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