The Best Things to Do in Paris for Free: Because Your Wallet Deserves a Break

Paris! The city of light, love, and croissants so flaky they practically whisper sweet nothings in your ear. But let’s face it, even the most romantic of cities can sometimes be a bit of a budget buster.

Don’t get me wrong – many guided tours are fantastic and well worth the investment. I spent ten years working for a tour company, and a good guide can bring everything to life. But you may prefer to save some of your euros for elaborate dinners, fancy pastries, buying 163 types of French cheese at once, etc. We know where my priorities lie.

From the well-known path to obscure & fascinating free museums, you have plenty of options to while away an afternoon. Here’s a list of the best free activities in Paris that will have you falling in love with the city without falling into debt.

Wander Through Luxurious Gardens

1. Jardin des Tuileries
Start your Parisian adventure by strolling through the Jardin des Tuileries. This iconic garden stretches between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, offering lush greenery, stunning statues, and fountains that make you want to twirl like you’re in a movie. Plus, it’s perfect for people-watching—oh là là!

2. Luxembourg Gardens
Head over to the Luxembourg Gardens, where you can find beautifully manicured lawns, charming fountains, and enough flowers to make your Instagram followers green with envy. Pro tip: Grab a seat by the Medici Fountain and pretend you’re a 19th-century poet. Please send me the poem you write.

Explore Parisian History

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Even though you can’t climb to the top anymore (thanks, 2019 fire), visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral is still a must. The Gothic architecture is awe-inspiring, and you can admire the exterior carvings and gargoyles up close. Bonus points if you can spot Quasimodo!

4. Père Lachaise Cemetery
Take a slightly macabre but utterly fascinating walk through Père Lachaise Cemetery. It’s the final resting place of famous figures like Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Jim Morrison. With its winding paths and ornate tombstones, it feels more like an open-air museum than a graveyard.

Bonus points if you can find the grave of Antoine-Augustin Parmentier, the man who popularized potatoes in France (Hint: it’s usually covered in potatoes. I once saw one that said “Merci pour les frites”).

Art and Culture on a Dime

5. Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
For those who appreciate modern art (or just enjoy saying “I was at an art gallery today”), the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris is a treasure trove of contemporary works. And yes, it’s free! Enjoy everything from Picasso to Delaunay without spending a cent.

6. Street Art in Belleville
If modern art inside four walls isn’t your thing, take it to the streets! Belleville is a hotspot for street art. Wander through the neighborhood to find colorful murals and graffiti that give the area its edgy charm. It’s like a scavenger hunt with no wrong answers.

Free Museums in Paris

7. Petit Palais
This stunning building is home to the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. You’ll find everything from classical paintings to Art Nouveau furniture. The best part? It’s free to enter!

8. Musée Carnavalet
Dive into the history of Paris at the Musée Carnavalet, where you can explore exhibits on everything from the French Revolution to Parisian fashion. It’s like a history lesson that doesn’t make you snooze.

9. Musée d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaïsme
Located in the Marais district, this museum offers fascinating insights into the history and culture of Jewish communities in France. The architecture alone is worth the visit.

10. Musée Curie
Science enthusiasts will love the Musée Curie, dedicated to the life and work of Marie Curie. It’s a small but incredibly informative museum about her groundbreaking research on radioactivity.

11. Musée de la Vie Romantique
Step into the world of 19th-century Romanticism at this charming museum, which was once the home of painter Ary Scheffer. The garden café is also a lovely spot to relax.

Scenic Views and Strolls: The Best things in life (and Paris) are free

Some of the most beautiful areas to stroll in Paris include Place des Vosges in the Marais, the bridges along the Seine, the Louvre courtyard, Rue Cler in the 7th, and the areas around the Eiffel Tower (laze in the park with a book, or admire the views from Trocadero). A couple others to include…

12. Montmartre
No visit to Paris is complete without a meander through Montmartre. Climb up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica (also free!) for a panoramic view of the city that will take your breath away. As you walk through the cobblestone streets, imagine yourself in a scene from “Amélie.”

13. La Promenade Plantée
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to La Promenade Plantée. This elevated park was the world’s first green space built on a viaduct. It’s like the High Line in New York but with more baguettes. Walk, jog, or simply relax surrounded by greenery and cityscapes.

Quirky and Fun

14. Free Music and Street Performers
Keep an ear out for free concerts and street performers around the city. Places like Place Georges Pompidou and the Latin Quarter often have musicians, magicians, and other artists showcasing their talents. Tossing a few coins in their hat is optional but always appreciated.

15. Le Marais Window Shopping
While actual shopping might not be free (unless you’re a klepto), window shopping in Le Marais certainly is. This trendy district is full of boutique stores and vintage shops that are perfect for browsing. Who knows, you might even get some fashion inspiration.

Soak Up the Parisian Atmosphere

16. Canal Saint-Martin
For a laid-back afternoon, head to Canal Saint-Martin. This picturesque canal is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic by the water. It’s also a great spot to channel your inner Parisian and read a book while sipping on a café au lait.

17. La Villette
Last but not least, visit the Parc de la Villette. It’s a bit out of the city center, but worth the trip. With its futuristic architecture and wide open spaces, it’s a great spot for both kids and adults. Check out the free exhibitions and events often hosted here.

So there you have it — an array of delightful, free activities in Paris that won’t have you sacrificing all your precious euros (so that you can save them for more cheese and pastries). Now go forth and enjoy those freebies the City of Light!

What else would you like to know? Let me know in the comments below!