Introduction
Paris, probably, is one of the most romantic cities in the world. The stunning beauty of medieval architecture and twisted streets give you the feeling as if you were walking within the chapters of history. While Paris offers a great range of charming museums like the Louvre or Pompidou Center, dazzling palaces like Versailles, or fine examples of novel architecture like Eiffel Tower, there are plenty of other free things do to in Paris while on vacation.
It might be one of the most expensive cities in the world, but believe us, Paris is enough for everyone, even for budget travelers, who want to get to know the soul of the city, while spending as less as possible. This guide will give you a brief overview of some of the must-do activities that you need to try for an authentic Parisian experience.
Why Should You Travel to Paris?
You might have heard of Emily in Paris, but what about giving yourself some of the spice of imagining yourself in this dazzling city? As travelers often like to say Paris is always a good idea, even if you are limited in budget. No matter whether you are capitalizing on free things or want to go all out in seeing everything in the city, Paris will leave you astonished. And you will want to come back to this eternal city (We know Rome, we know, but Paris is no less) many more times.
Top Reasons to Visit Paris
Paris accommodates some of the most famous and thrilling attractions in the world. I bet we all have dreamed of taking some cool pictures in front of the Eiffel Tower with a full cone of French fries in our hands. And let’s admit, how many of us have posted the pictures of “Mona Lisa” and other masterpieces by genius painters on our Instagram feed with the hope that we would visit them anytime soon? – Well, I am guilty as charged.
Alternatively, Paris is a shopping paradise for everyone who loves fashion and not only. What makes Paris so great for shopping is its great variety of different spots from cheap and chic vintage shops to high-end boutiques.
And of course, food. French cuisine, rightfully so, is one of the best in the world. And who wouldn’t like tasting Bouillabaisse with some saffron and chilly? Especially when you know that once you are done with this food, you can have some of the best desserts as a prize.
Another fair point of visiting Paris is that there are many budget airlines that offer affordable prices on tickets. Plus, if you already have applied for your ETIAS visa waiver as a non-EU citizen, you can be sure that you will use for the coming seven years, without a need to re-apply for it.
Top Free Things to Do in Paris
Okay, let’s get down to business. You are in Paris on limited budget and don’t know what to do? Don’t worry, we have got you covered. The city has the number of activities that will give you proper Parisian experience without spending a penny.
Have a picnic at Parc du Champ de Mars
Parc du Champ de Mars is one of the most iconic parks in Paris. Giving the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower as well as Seine River, du Champ de Mars is the same for Paris as Central Park is for New York. Whether you have one more evening in Paris or want to enjoy slow travel, having a picnic in Paris’s most iconic park is must-do activity. Here you can see how local Parisians spend their evening with friends and families while enjoying the Eiffel Tower light show at dusk.
Visit MOMA
You probably have thought that all the museums in Paris cost around 20 euros, haven’t you? But we have good news for you. Visiting MOMA will cost you nothing (although you can donate any amount of money). If you are a great fan of modern art and enjoy some of the fine examples of Cubism, this is the right spot for you.
Take a Stroll at Cimitiere du Pere Lachaise
This iconic cemetery in Paris has become the burial place of many of the greats in literature, music, philosophy and cinema. Whether you need some inspiration or just want to enjoy the spiritual company of ghosts of literary geniuses, this is the place to go. The cemetery is so famous that it has been mentioned in many French and other books as one of the most inspirational places.
Visit Belleville Neighborhood
We all have heard stories about the French Revolutions and have seen a rather famous painting – “Liberty Leading the People” by Delacroix. But did you know that Belleville Neighborhood is the place where it all started from?
For centuries this neighborhood has been the heart and soul of Parisian multiculturalism and diversity. Featuring some of the most interesting places like Chinatown or Street Art spots, visiting this neighborhood is a great way to spend several hours in a bit different Paris from what you have seen in Travel Guide Books.
Chill Alongside the Canal of St. Martin
This can be your final destination before catching your flight at the airport. Canal of St. Martin is a great place to catch a breath and chill before taking a tiring and dull flight back home. You can join locals who enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking views of the canal while reading a book or enjoying a well-deserved glass of champagne. The canal is the most beautiful when the sun goes down and its rays start playing with the tiny waves of the water.
Conclusion
While Paris, fairly so, is one of the most expensive cities in the world, it offers a great range of free activities that you can enjoy. Indeed, just walking in the streets of this beautifully planned city is enough to be happy and not think about a stressful routine. Whether you are a backpack traveler or have an all-inclusive vacation, these are the places that will astonish you and give you some taste of the Parisian lifestyle.
