Summary
Traveling to Paris can be an unforgettable adventure, although it is essential to monitor expenses to ensure a pleasant experience. The costs can escalate rapidly, particularly when considering attractions, dining establishments, and tours. To assist in managing your budget effectively, we present an overview of the most highly recommended free activities to enjoy in Paris upon arrival.
Your time in Paris is bound to be remarkable; however, it is important to acknowledge that prices can increase—particularly during peak travel seasons or at sought-after locations within the city.
Explore the following list of esteemed free activities to carry out in Paris during your visit! Wishing you an exceptional stay in France.
1.) Free Museum Days
One impressive aspect of Paris is the abundance of museums; however, it is evident that the costs can multiply substantially if one pays for every exhibit, particularly when accompanied by friends or family.
That said, many museums in Paris offer complimentary access, provided one adheres to specific guidelines.
A significant number of museums extend free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Notable examples include the Orangerie Museum, Bourdelle Museum, Modern Art Museum, and Orsay Museum.
Although entry is entirely complimentary, it is necessary to visit on the designated day. Additionally, always verify each museum’s website for information on individual dates.
Furthermore, if you are between 18-25 and hold EU citizenship, you have access to numerous museums in Paris, including the Louvre.
However, if you are planning to view the Mona Lisa, it is advisable to arrange for skip-the-line tickets that allow direct entry bypassing the lengthy queues.
2.) Visit the Parks of Paris
Another highlight of Paris is the multitude of exquisite parks available for exploration. Fortunately, access to these parks is without charge and they are easily navigable.
During your stroll in Paris, ensure a visit to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. This expansive park is particularly captivating on sunny days. Additionally, make sure to seek out the Temple de la Sibylle while you take your leisurely walk; it’s quite remarkable.
Other notable parks worth visiting include Jardins du Trocadéro, Parc Monceau, Parc de Bercy, and Parc Floral de Paris. However, it may be advisable to focus on one or two since they can be quite extensive.
3.) See the Paris Landmarks
Much like other major world cities, many of the prominent attractions in Paris can be viewed without any fees. While there are options to make donations or pay for particular experiences, it is entirely possible to enjoy the city without spending anything.
A recommended approach is to leisurely stroll through the streets using tools like Google Maps—or City Mapper—and identify key landmarks of interest.
We have previously utilized entry tickets to the Eiffel Tower to appreciate the views from the top; however, magnificent panoramas can also be obtained from ground level. Our preference is to visit the Trocadero Gardens during sunset for an extraordinary view of the Eiffel Tower.
Don’t forget to explore the areas surrounding Notre Dame (viewable from the exterior) and Sacré Coeur as well.
4.) Window Shopping at Galeries Lafayette
To be candid, shops often entice you to make purchases; that is an undeniable fact! Nevertheless, consider entering Galeries Lafayette to admire its architectural beauty.
Wander through the upper levels to appreciate the stunning vistas of this remarkable shopping environment. It’s quite exquisite.
Additionally, nearby, you can marvel at the magnificent Palais Garnier before strolling down Avenue de l’Opéra.
5.) Watch a Movie at Parc de la Villette
Each summer, Parc de la Villette hosts an outdoor cinema that has gained popularity over the decades, providing a delightful experience. This event is entirely free and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the summer sun and twilight evenings in Paris.
Typically, the complimentary films are screened during July and August, making it an enjoyable experience for cinema enthusiasts.
Ensure you check their website for the movie schedule.
6.) Neighborhoods in Paris
Technically, exploring the streets of Paris is free!
Although Paris may seem like a singular entity, it consists of numerous distinct neighborhoods that merit exploration.
Upon your arrival in Paris, visit Le Marais, one of our favored areas, characterized by its charming streets, scenic alleys, and an abundance of cafes to help you enjoy your day.
It is likely that you will be tempted to purchase pastries or similar delights; however, they need not be excessively priced. For an excellent coffee experience, stop by the Boot Cafe, which serves some of the best coffee in France in an inviting atmosphere.
Other noteworthy neighborhoods to explore include Saint-Germain-des-Prés (a high-end area), the Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement) with the Panthéon, and Canal Saint-Martin, the latter of which is pleasant for a leisurely walk. You can also access the free entry to the Orsay Museum from this area.
7.) Saint-Eustache Church
Regardless of your religious beliefs, a visit to Saint-Eustache Church ranks among the highly recommended free activities in Paris, conveniently located within walking distance of the Louvre.
Moreover, the church hosts organ recitals almost every Sunday from 5:30 PM to 6 PM, creating a magical ambiance during your visit.
8.) Visit the Panthéon
Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, as previously mentioned, the Panthéon is a must-visit destination during your stay.
This site is one of the premier free activities in Paris, particularly for history enthusiasts, as it was constructed amid the French Revolution and completed shortly after France embraced its republican ideals.
Although entry is free, ensure to explore the domed area and admire the exquisite frescoes, with particular attention paid to the Apotheosis of Saint Genevieve illustrated upon the dome.
9.) Sacré-Coeur Basilica
Sitting majestically in the Montmartre district of Paris, Sacré-Coeur Basilica is a noteworthy location to explore while in the city. Admission is complimentary, and the basilica offers breathtaking views of Paris.
Upon entering, be sure to admire the Triumph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a stunning mosaic, and take note of the massive Grand Organ inside.
It is advisable to be cautious of numerous street vendors around this area, as they may attempt to sell you bracelets. If they try to place one on your wrist, kindly and firmly decline or leave it on the ground—it is generally a tactic for soliciting payment for an item you did not request.
10.) Hotel de Sens
Although it is uncommon to recommend visiting a hotel, Hotel de Sens in Paris is an exception. This establishment was originally accommodations for archbishops during their time in Paris.
A particularly intriguing feature of Hotel de Sens is the evident cannonball damage, which bears testament to its remarkable history spanning nearly one thousand years.
Notably, be sure to observe the cannonball embedded in the side of the structure from the French Revolution; it represents one of the unique yet highly regarded free activities to do in Paris that is often overlooked.
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