Paris is a city filled with art, culture, and history, and while it’s known for its iconic paid attractions, there are plenty of free things to do that allow you to experience the magic of the city without spending a euro. Here are some of the best:
1. Stroll Along the Seine and Enjoy the Views
Walking along the banks of the River Seine is one of the most picturesque ways to experience Paris. Whether you’re near the Île de la Cité, Notre-Dame, or the Eiffel Tower, the views are simply stunning.
2. Discover the Eiffel Tower Area
While visiting the Eiffel Tower itself comes with an entrance fee, the area surrounding it offers plenty of free experiences. The Champ de Mars, a large park stretching beneath the tower, provides a perfect spot for a picnic or to simply relax while enjoying views of this iconic landmark. You can also stroll along the Trocadéro Gardens, across the river, for stunning panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower.
3. Admire the Tuileries Gardens
The Tuileries Gardens offer a beautiful, expansive green space right between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. With manicured lawns, tranquil ponds, and stately statues, it’s a great spot to take a leisurely stroll or sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, all free of charge.
4. Visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Located atop Montmartre Hill, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers not only a stunning building to explore, but also breathtaking panoramic views of Paris from its terrace. Entrance to the basilica is free, and you can enjoy the magnificent interior and the peaceful surroundings at no cost. Link HERE.
5. Explore the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
While climbing the Arc de Triomphe has a fee, walking along the Champs-Élysées is free. Stroll down this world-famous avenue and soak in the iconic sights, from luxurious shops to historic landmarks.
6. Relax in Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are one of the most beautiful green spaces in Paris. Take a free wander through its well-maintained paths, relax by the large fountain, or simply enjoy the many statues and sculptures scattered throughout the gardens. Link HERE.
7. Discover the Historic Le Marais District
Walking around the Le Marais district is like stepping back in time. With its narrow medieval streets, beautiful old buildings, and trendy boutiques, it’s an area perfect for wandering. Don’t miss the Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, surrounded by charming arcades.
8. Wander Through the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Paris. Its winding paths, waterfalls, and stunning views make it a perfect place for a free escape into nature. The park even has a Temple de la Sibylle, an artificial temple perched on a hill offering panoramic views. Link HERE.
9. Visit the Père Lachaise Cemetery
The Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world, and it’s free to visit. You can pay respects to notable figures like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf, while also enjoying the beautiful and tranquil atmosphere of this historic site.
10. Check Out the Street Art in Belleville
If you’re into street art, the Belleville neighborhood is a vibrant open-air gallery. Wander through the area and discover colorful murals, graffiti, and urban art scattered around the streets. For more info and to book a guided tour see HERE.
11. Free Museums on First Fridays/Sundays
Many museums in Paris offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month, including the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and the Centre Pompidou. If you’re visiting during this time, it’s a great opportunity to explore world-class art collections without spending money. A list of different museums that are free on specific days can be seen HERE.
12. Visit the Musée Bourdelle
Tucked away in the 14th arrondissement, the Musée Bourdelle is one of Paris’s most charming little museums. Dedicated to the works of the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle, it features an impressive collection of his sculptures, drawings, and studies. The museum’s beautiful gardens and intimate setting make it a peaceful retreat. Best of all, admission to the permanent collection is free.
13. Enjoy the Views from Parc de Belleville
For a less crowded view of the city, head to Parc de Belleville, a hilltop park offering fantastic views of Paris. It’s less touristy but equally as beautiful as some of the more popular spots, making it a perfect free experience.
14. Explore the Art Galleries of Le Marais
The Marais district boasts one of the highest concentrations of art galleries in Paris, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Notable galleries include Perrotin, Thaddeus Ropac (also with a space in Pantin), and Marian Goodman Gallery.
15. Explore Musée Carnavalet – Histoire de Paris
Located in the historic Marais district, the Musée Carnavalet is dedicated to the rich history of Paris. Housed in two beautiful historic mansions, it offers a fascinating journey through the city’s evolution, from the French Revolution to the modern day. The museum’s permanent collections, which include art, artifacts, and interactive exhibits, are free to visit. Link HERE.
16. Visit the Petit Palais: A Free Art Escape
The Petit Palais, located near the Champs-Élysées, is a beautiful museum that’s free to enter and often overlooked by tourists. Home to a stunning collection of fine art, including works by Claude Monet and Camille Pissarro, it offers a peaceful experience without the crowds. The building itself is a masterpiece of Belle Époque architecture. Link HERE.
17. Discover the Passage des Panoramas
Paris is home to some charming, historic arcades—covered passageways that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Passage des Panoramas, the oldest arcade in Paris, is renowned for its stamp shops and cozy restaurants, offering a more authentic Parisian experience.
18. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
While climbing the Notre-Dame Tower has an entrance fee, visiting the cathedral itself is completely free. You can step inside and admire the stunning Gothic architecture, the intricate stained glass windows, and the peaceful atmosphere. Link HERE.
19. Unwind at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (Richelieu Site)
For a peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris, visit the Oval Room at the Richelieu site of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. This stunning library, with its towering shelves filled with 20,000 books, ancient scrolls, and comic books, offers a quiet space to immerse yourself in history and literature. Free to enter (closed Sundays). Link HERE.
20. Discover Paris’s Hidden Green Path: La Petite Ceinture
The La Petite Ceinture is a 30km stretch of abandoned railway that winds through inner Paris, now a green space filled with history and street art. Once a transport route, it’s now a haven for wildlife and urban explorers, with vibrant graffiti along the tracks. Link with map HERE.
21. Explore St-Ouen’s Flea Markets
The Puces de St-Ouen is one of Paris’s most famous flea markets, and a must-visit if you enjoy a good treasure hunt. Located just north of the city, this sprawling market is a maze of stalls offering everything from vintage clothing and antiques to quirky collectibles and rare finds.
Opening hours: Every weekend of the year, Friday from 8 am to 12 pm, Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m., Monday from 11 a.m. to 17 p.m., Link HERE.
22. Admire the Architecture at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann
Even if you’re not shopping, Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann is worth a visit for its stunning architecture. Located in the Opéra / Bourse district, this historic department store is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design, with a breathtaking glass dome that soars above the central atrium.
23. Stroll Across Pont Alexandre III
One of Paris’s most iconic bridges, Pont Alexandre III connects the Champs-Élysées and Les Invalides, offering not just a scenic crossing but also a feast for the eyes. Adorned with gilded statues, ornate lamps, and intricate carvings, this Beaux-Arts masterpiece is often considered the most beautiful bridge in Paris.
24. Wander Through the Quartier Latin
The Quartier Latin is one of Paris’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods. Known for its lively atmosphere, charming narrow streets, and intellectual history, this area has long been a hub for students, artists, and writers. You can visit landmarks like the Panthéon, stroll along the Boulevard Saint-Michel, or relax in the beautiful Jardin des Plantes.
25. Explore the Bastille Market (Marché Bastille)
Held on the bustling Place de la Bastille, the Bastille Market is one of the most vibrant and lively markets in Paris. Open on Thursdays and Sundays, it’s a fantastic place to sample fresh produce, gourmet cheeses, meats, flowers, and local delicacies. Link in French HERE.
26. Stroll Down Rue Montorgueil
One of Paris’s most charming pedestrian streets, Rue Montorgueil in the heart of the Les Halles district is a food lover’s paradise. Lined with vibrant bakeries, patisseries, cheesemongers, fish markets, and cafés, this lively street captures the essence of Parisian life.
27. Discover the Musée du Parfum – Fragonard
Located near the Opera Garnier, the Musée du Parfum – Fragonard offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of fragrance. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion, this free museum takes you through the history of perfume-making, from ancient techniques to modern innovations. Link HERE.
28. Walk the Coulée Verte René-Dumont (Promenade Plantée)
The Coulée Verte René-Dumont, also known as the Promenade Plantée, is a serene green space that stretches for nearly 5 kilometers above the streets of Paris. Built on an old railway viaduct, it’s a beautiful elevated park offering a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Link HERE.
29. Visit La Madeleine
Built by Napoleon to honor his troops, La Madeleine is a stunning neoclassical church in the 8th arrondissement. Its grand temple-like façade and impressive interior with intricate sculptures make it a must-see.
30. Visit Hôtel de Ville (City Hall)
The Hôtel de Ville is an architectural gem located in the heart of Paris, serving as the city’s administrative center. Its grand Renaissance-style façade and intricate sculptures make it a stunning building to admire from the outside.
31. Visit Galerie Vivienne
One of the most elegant covered passages in Paris, Galerie Vivienne offers a beautiful escape from the bustling city streets. This 19th-century arcade, with its stunning mosaic floors, glass roof, and intricate architecture, is listed as a historical monument in 1974. Link HERE.
Conclusion
Paris is a city filled with history, art, and charm, and the best part is, many of its most iconic attractions are completely free to explore. Whether you’re wandering through its beautiful parks, admiring stunning architecture, or diving into the city’s rich history at its museums, there’s no shortage of things to see and do without spending a penny.
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