The French capital is one of the world’s most-visited cities – and for a good reason. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, it’s full of world-famous attractions, amazing food and incredible culture and history.
Unfortunately, this all comes with exorbitant price tags and entrance fees. However, visiting the City of Light doesn’t have to break the bank. Plenty of free things to do in Paris don’t cost a single penny. Here are a few of our favourites:
Visit a public park
From the Parc des Buttes Chaumont to Parc Monceauare, there is an abundance of beautiful green space to enjoy in Paris. Grab a picnic, your favourite blanket and a good book and head to one of the many parks dotted around the city. Choosing the best park is challenging, but we highly recommend the Jardin du Luxembourg.
Relax and while away the hours in the beautifully landscaped gardens or next to the famous Medici Fountain. You can reach many of the city’s nearby attractions from the park, such as the 6th-century Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés – the city’s oldest church.
Visit the Sacré Coeur
Perched atop a hill in the artistic district of Montmartre is Sacré Coeur, one of the city’s most breathtaking sights. Its striking travertine exterior glistens in the Parisian sun as if it were a beacon to the city. If you can make it to the top of the hill, you’ll be treated to some of the best views of Paris.
While you’re in Montmartre, check out the street artists that line the narrow lanes. You’re under no pressure to buy anything, and it’s one of the best places to enjoy a touch of unique window shopping.
Walk Along the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is the French capital’s iconic tree-lined avenue, where you can refresh with a ‘noisette’ (France’s answer to the espresso) in a chic café.
At night, a plethora of lights bring the street to life with colour. And, at the far end of this beautiful road, you’ll find the Arc de Triomphe, which was constructed during the Napoleonic era.
Go on a Canal Walk
Built in the 19th century, the Canal Saint-Martin is the perfect setting for a romantic stroll through the city. Beautiful iron footbridges crisscross the canal, and tree-shaded quays host some of the city’s trendiest shabby-chic bars and appetising bistros.
However, enjoying the 4.5km walk along the canal doesn’t cost a penny and is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful corner of Paris.
Head to Père Lachaise Cemetery
We know this might sound like an eerie entry, but we promise your walk around Père Lachaise will be interesting, if not amazing.
Paris’s largest and most-visited cemetery is home to famous names like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. It’s also full of ornate and eccentric tombs that make great visual spectacles.
For an easy way to see the delights of Paris, make sure you check out our range of Paris tours from London. Explore Paris’s most famous sights and iconic attractions with an expert guide, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral. Set off in the morning from London and be back in time for those all-important dinner reservations in the evening. That’s what we call convenient.
