Many of us associate Paris with expense.
Home to some of the world's most prestigious galleries, lavish hotels, high-end fashion labels and over 120 Michelin-starred restaurants, you'd be forgiven for thinking that it's going to break the bank.
But, as with every destination, a little research shows that you can see and experience a heck of a lot without spending a thing.
Free Things to Do in Paris - See the City on a Shoestring
If you want to see stunning sights and world-class art while dodging bankruptcy, you're in the right city.
Thankfully, there are plenty of free things to do in Paris.
So, save your euros for croissants and coffee and enjoy the city free of charge. Here's how it's done.
Create Your Own Free Tour of Paris' Sights
Paris is basically a giant open-air museum. You don't need a ticket to admire its most famous landmarks.
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Grab a baguette and a coffee to go, get ready for a long walk and enjoy some of the following.
- Stand in the shadow of the renovated Notre Dame and admire the gothic stained glass and gargoyles.
- Cross the decadent Pont Alexandre III and look out over the Seine.
- Soak up the glamour of the bustling Champs-Élysées.
- Pay respects to fallen French soldiers under the magnificent Arc de Triomphe.
- Admire the Eiffel Tower from the manicured Trocadéro Gardens.
- Wander beautiful Montmartre then tackle the 300 steps to Sacré-Cœur for one of the best views of the city.
You could plan a walk at golden hour when the city is bathed in a natural, warm glow.
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Top tip: Get some free info and commentary as you go with a self-guided walking tour app.
Support Independent Art at 59 Rivoli
If the Louvre is outside of your price range, head to 59 Rivoli.
This former artist squat-turned-gallery is brimming with art, creativity and an eclectic mix of styles.
Wikimedia Commons / 59Rivoli
A dynamic hub, 59 Rivoli is home to studios, exhibitions and live performances. It offers a glimpse into the Parisian underground art scene, all for free.
Prepare to fill your photo albums - the building itself is a work of art.
Murals, collages made from found objects, paintings and banners occupy every square inch.
You can watch artists at work and chat with them about their processes. Or maybe catch an impromptu live music session or interactive installation.
Bargain with Bouquinistes and Saunter Along the Seine
The bouquinistes of Paris are integral to the city's history and cultural heritage.
These unassuming sellers of vintage books, prints and postcards are UNESCO-protected and have a radical past.
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Bouquinistes acted as letter drop-off points during World War Two. Many aided the French Resistance, risking their lives to transmit coded messages concealed in books.
Walking along the Seine and browsing their famous green boxes is a perfect way to appreciate Paris's literary soul.
Combine this with a visit to Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris.
Stroll cobbled streets and peek into the tucked-away corners of this small island.
With views of the Seine and hidden gardens, it's a great way to spend half a day without spending a thing.
Enjoy Free Entry to Top Galleries and Museums
And now for one of the best hacks for experiencing Parisian art and culture for free.
On the first Sunday of the month, some of the city's best museums open their doors for free. And others offer free admission generally to visitors in various age groups.
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That means you might get chance to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, admire Monet's Water Lilies at the Musée de l'Orangerie, or get your dose of modern art at the Centre Pompidou, completely free of charge.
For more info, check the tourist board's latest list.
A whole host of other museums, such as the Musée Carnavalet (dedicated to the history of Paris) and the Musée d'Art Moderne, offer free year-round access.
So, if you miss the first Sunday window or don't fit the age bracket for free admission, you won't miss out entirely.
Stroll or Picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg
How's this for a classic Parisian pastime - pack a wicker basket full of cheese, bread and wine and take yourself for a picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg.
With its manicured gardens, grand fountains and even free live music performances, this underrated park is a great place to spend an afternoon.
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Lounge on its iconic green chairs and admire one of Paris' most beautiful fountains, the ornate Medici.
There are also free summer performances at the bandstand, occasional art exhibitions and sculpture displays.
Tour the Magnificent Murals in the 13th Arrondissement
When it comes to art, Paris isn't just about 16th-century classics.
The 13th arrondissement is a canvas for some of the world's best modern street artists.
From giant murals to paste-ups, exploring this neighbourhood is like walking through an ever-changing open-air gallery.
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Start at the Boulevard Vincent Auriol, where you'll find some of the largest murals in the city.
Then, wander through side streets to discover smaller, more intricate pieces.
Local authorities actively commission street art here, so there's always something new to see.
Find a Newspaper From the Day You Were Born at La Galcante
La Galcante is a hidden gem of a book shop and a treasure trove of print media from times past.
You might even find a newspaper from the day you were born.
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If you don't fancy hours of hunting through dusty shelves, you can order one online.
Browse towering stacks of old prints and flick through decades-old publications.
Get a warm, fuzzy glow of nostalgia and a glimpse into the city's past.
La Galcante also has vintage postcards, maps and rare books, making it a great place to pick up a unique souvenir.
Pay Respects to Passed Legends in Cimetière du Père-Lachaise
Père-Lachaise Cemetery is the final resting place of some seriously famous icons.
A place of pilgrimage for many art, music and film fans, the likes of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Frédéric Chopin, Max Ernst and Edith Piaf are interred here.
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Père-Lachaise is also a strangely beautiful spot to wander.
Lavish, elaborately carved gravestones vie for space among tombs the size of small houses.
This is a truly unique place to gain a deeper appreciation of Paris' past.
Not to mention learning about the many talented trailblazers who have called the city home through the years.
Feel the L'Amour at the I Love You Wall
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Le Mur des Je T’aime, or the I Love You Wall , is covered in 311 ways to say three small words.
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Whether you're feeling romantic or just want a great Instagram shot, this Montmartre gem is worth a visit.
While you're in Montmartre, take a detour through its winding streets.
Visit Place du Tertre to watch artists at work and enjoy the creative atmosphere of this historic district.
Window Shop and Look Out Over Paris at Galeries Lafayette
Even if your budget doesn't stretch to Parisian couture, you can still admire it for free.
The famous department store Galeries Lafayette and its stunning Art Nouveau interior is always worth visiting on a trip to Paris.
Top tip: Its rooftop terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of the city.
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Take in the Works of Contemporary Art Heavyweights
Paris' modern art scene isn't just for those with deep pockets.
The Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris offers free access to its impressive permanent collection.
With over 10,000 works by more than 2,000 prolific artists including Braque, Matisse, Picasso and Bonnard, that's not an offer to refuse.
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Another gallery offering free access to its permanent collections is the Petit Palais.
Home to outstanding fine art, sculptures and decorative pieces, the building and beautifully landscaped gardens are worth a visit alone.
Avoid Unnecessary Charges with a France eSIM
You'll need your maps, camera and mobile close by as you navigate the many free things to do in Paris.
The easiest and best way to stay connected is to buy an eSIM for France from Airalo.
Just browse your options here, choose how much data you need and what you want to spend.
Then install your eSIM and voila! You're online.
And, more importantly, ready to share your pictures and boasts as you go.
Bon voyage!
