Best Free Things to Do in Paris: Don’t Let Your Budget Stop You from having a Blast

Welcome to Paris, the City of Lights and the City of Love!

The French capital of fashion and cuisine may be known for eye-watering luxury, but some of the best ways to experience Paris won’t cost you a single euro.

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to secret corners, this neighborhood-by-neighborhood (arrondissement-by-arrondissement) guide reveals the perfect places to discover the magic of Paris – for free!

So if you’re wanting to do Paris on a budget, this post is for you – filled with loads of great spots for taking amazing photos, museums to explore, gardens to wander through, so you can save your money for the things on your Paris Bucket List, like dinner cruises, macaron-making classes and a bunch of other very cool things I have in the Bucket List link.

You should also check out the pros and cons of buying a Go City Paris Pass to see how to save even more €. I wrote a comparison guide.

*This post contains some affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase, I may make a commission, at no extra cost to you.

Amazing Free Museums and Monuments in Paris

Notre-Dame Cathedral

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, Notre-Dame is open after being closed for repairs and a rebuild for five years since the fire of 2019.

You are allowed to take photos inside, no selfie sticks. For the best spot to view the cathedral’s flying buttresses, head to the small garden on its eastern end along the Seine River.

Every other day (and person) requires a ticket to see the Mona Lisa (and honestly, I rank it as one of the most disappointing attractions in Paris in this list of the best things to do – and not to do!), the Louvre’s magnificent exterior and courtyards are free to explore.

The Louvre’s Exterior

The perfect place for photos is from the Tuileries Garden, you can walk through the vast Musee du Louvre courtyard where you can frame the pyramid against the historic palace facade, or through the doorway, and watch people taking selfies and trying to put their finger on the apex of the pyramid.

Arc de Triomphe

While climbing to the top requires a ticket, viewing this monumental arch from the Champs-Élysées or Place Charles de Gaulle is completely free. The best spot for photos is from the pedestrian crossings around the roundabout.

If you want to save money, the Go City Paris Pass gives you entry into loads of attractions (like the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower) for one bulk price.

A great tip for taking gorgeous photos is to get down low to the ground – even turn your phone camera upside down – and capture a different angle. I have easy tips for taking epic photos in this post, including working with reflections.

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

This gleaming white church atop Montmartre is free to enter and offers one of the best views over Paris. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset over the City of Love too.

Petit Palais

This stunning museum offers free access to its permanent collections, featuring works from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. The building’s architecture alone is worth the visit. Located at Avenue Winston Churchill in the 8th arrondissement.

Musée Carnavalet

Recently renovated, this free museum tells the fascinating history of Paris through art, furniture, and reconstructed historic rooms. It houses over 600,000 objects, including paintings, graphic art, and items once owned by Napoleon in the Marais district.

Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissements)

The historic Jewish quarter of Paris offers plenty of free activities that showcase its rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Place des Vosges

This is the oldest planned square in Paris and is a great spot for a picnic. Built by Henry IV between 1605 and 1612, but named by Napoleon in 1800, it was where nobility gathered until the Revolution, for a chat.

Today you can pick up a picnic lunch from one of the cafes, find a spot on the manicured lawn and watch local life walk by. Street musicians often perform here, galleries are open for browsing (or shopping) and Victor Hugo’s former home is here (see next).

Maison Victor Hugo

Located on Place des Vosges, Victor Hugo’s former residence is now a museum celebrating the author’s life and works. The permanent collection is free and provides lovely glimpses into the life of the man who wrote “Les Misérables.”

Art Gallery Hopping

The Marais is home to numerous contemporary art galleries that are free to visit. Start on Rue Vieille du Temple and wind your way through the neighborhood’s narrow streets. Gallery owners love to discuss the works with interested visitors.

Along the Seine River

Did you know the River Seine is a UNESCO World Heritage site? It is the lifeblood of Paris, running through the city, and many of the best free activities happen along its banks.

The Left Bank (Rive Gauche) and Right Bank (Rive Droite) both offer unique experiences.

Banks of the Seine

The riverside walkways are one of the best ways to experience Paris. Watch artists painting, browse the bouquinistes (used book sellers which are fabulous places to pick up an authentic souvenir), or join locals for an evening picnic.

The stretch between Pont des Arts and Pont Neuf is a great place to watch street performers.

Place de la Concorde

This grand square, site of many executions during the French Revolution, offers spectacular views down the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe in one direction and through the Jardin des Tuileries to the Louvre in the other.

You might like to book this private Da Vinci Code Walking Tour and walk through the pages of Dan Brown’s novel.

Jardin des Tuileries

These formal gardens between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde are the perfect place for a stroll, with free exhibitions, ponds, and seasonal events. The western end offers one of the best spots to watch the sunset over the city.

Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)

This historic intellectual hub still buzzes with academic energy and hidden corners waiting to be discovered.

Jardin des Plantes

You have free access to the outdoor gardens at Paris’s main botanical garden. Wander through the Alpine Garden, Rose Garden, and the beautiful Art Deco winter garden. The hidden maze (Labyrinthe) dates back to 1739 and gives a unique perspective of this neighborhood.

Shakespeare and Company

While books cost money, browsing this legendary bookstore is free! Look for the resident cat, attend free readings (usually advertised on their bulletin board), and soak in the literary atmosphere. Don’t miss the upstairs reading room where you can see the bed where writers like Oscar Wilde once rested.

Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont

Often overshadowed by the Panthéon, this church houses the shrine of Saint Geneviève, Paris’s patron saint. Its unique rood screen is the only one remaining in Paris, and the building beautifully combines Gothic and Renaissance elements.

Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)

Beyond the touristy spots and the obligatory photo of the Sacré Cœur, Montmartre harbors lovely quiet corners and authentic Parisian experiences, that cost nothing.

Villa Léandre

This hidden Art Deco street feels more like London than Paris, with its charming row houses and quiet atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a peaceful escape from the crowds at the Basilica.

Street Art Hunting

The 18th arrondissement is a canvas for some of Paris’s best street artists. Explore Rue de l’Évangile and Rue Ordener for ever-changing murals and installations.

Square Marcel Bleustein-Blanchet

Located behind Sacré-Cœur, this terraced garden offers one of the best views of Paris, yet remains relatively unknown to tourists. Bring a book and enjoy the peace of this elevated park.

Canal Saint-Martin (10th Arrondissement)

This trendy neighborhood offers plenty of free entertainment and local culture. I took a little boat cruise along Canal Saint Martin, under bridges – and even under the roads of Paris!

Canal Banks

Join the Parisians who gather along the canal’s edges, especially in the evening. Bring your own picnic and watch the boats navigate the locks while street performers entertain the crowds.

Book an inexpensive Canal Saint Martin cruise here >

Jardin Villemin

This local park along the canal features a community garden, ping pong tables (bring your own paddles), and plenty of benches for people-watching.

Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves

While shopping for cute bric-a-brac from the nearly 400 stall holders costs money, browsing this authentic flea market is free while offering fascinating glimpses into French history and culture. Open weekends only. A fab place for amazing souviner shopping. Get here early (from 7.30am) for the best selections. Located at 21 Av. Georges Lafenestre.

Parks and Gardens

Jardin du Luxembourg

Located on the border between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter, they were created in 1612.

The perfect place to experience Parisian life, the Luxembourg Gardens cover 25 hectares and are free to enter. You’ll find many statues (106 to be precise) and planted flower boxes/urns, as well as the gardens blooming in spring and summer.

It’s a great place to people-watch, or enjoy a picnic, play chess or tennis. The central fountain is one of the best spots to cool off during summer!

Bois de Boulogne

This vast park on the city’s western edge is one of the best ways to escape urban life. A great place for picnics, jogging, or simply wandering through its peaceful forests and lakes.

Cultural Icons and Hidden Histories

Père Lachaise Cemetery

I quite like wandering quietly through cemeteries, and this is the largest cemetery in Paris. It’s a sprawling necropolis and the final resting place of many cultural icons.

The cobblestone paths and Gothic tombs make it a perfect place for atmospheric photos. For the best spot to begin your visit, enter through the main gate where you can pick up a free map.

It reminds me of my visit to Recoleta Cemetery in Beunos Aires, Argentina where Eva Peron lies. Here in Paris you you can visit the graves of Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and many others for free.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

Petite Ceinture (Multiple Arrondissements)

The former Chemin de fer de Petite Ceinture, or Petite Ceinture (Little Belt), is an abandoned railway line which used to lead steam trains around from 1852 to 1934. It encircles Paris and has been partially converted into public parks. Access points in the 12th, 13th, and 16th arrondissements for unique perspectives of the city. Great for graffiti photography!

Coulée Verte René-Dumont (12th Arrondissement)

This elevated park, built on an old railway line predates New York’s High Line and offers a 4.5km elevated walk through the city. Access is free, and it provides unique views into Parisian apartments and hidden courtyards.

Parc de la Butte-du-Chapeau-Rouge (19th Arrondissement)

This park is a great spot for photos. It offers panoramic views of the northern suburbs and the Basilica of Saint-Denis. The Art Deco design elements and winding paths make it a perfect spot for photography lovers.

Free Museums in Paris

One of the best ways to experience Paris’s cultural treasures is through its free museums – yes even the Louvre is free one day a month:

• Musée Carnavalet (History of Paris and the French Revolution) – Always free
• Petit Palais (Fine Arts) – Permanent collections always free
• Maison de Victor Hugo – Always free
• All municipal museums are free for permanent collections
• Most national museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month
• Many museums host free exhibitions throughout the year

The first Sunday of the month is a perfect time to visit major museums like the Louvre at no cost, though expect larger crowds.

Other Free Paris Attractions

• Churches are always free to enter (except the Sacré-Cœur dome)
• Most public parks are free and open from sunrise to sunset
• Many art galleries host free opening nights with complimentary wine
• The best views of the Eiffel Tower are free from Trocadéro and Champ de Mars

Sometimes the best way to experience a city is simply to wander its streets, discovering your own hidden corners and creating your own Parisian memories without spending a centime.

Seasonal Free Activities in Paris

Spring (March – May)

Cherry Blossom Season

• Jardin des Plantes (5th): The main alley transforms into a pink tunnel in late March
• Parc de Sceaux (South of Paris): Features over 150 cherry trees in its spectacular orchard
• Square Marie-Trintignant (4th): A hidden spot with magnificent cherry trees along the Seine

Garden Exhibitions

• Luxembourg Gardens (6th): The annual apple and pear tree exhibition showcases over 1000 fruit-bearing trees trained into artistic shapes
• Parc de Bagatelle (16th): Famous for its iris competition in May, featuring hundreds of varieties
• Jardin des Plantes (5th): Free botanical tours every Thursday morning during spring

Free Church Concerts

• Saint-Eustache (1st): Weekly organ concerts on Sundays at 5:30 PM
• Saint-Sulpice (6th): Free classical music performances during Sunday mass
• La Madeleine (8th): Regular lunchtime concerts featuring young musicians

Summer (June – August)

Paris Plages

• Voie Georges Pompidou (4th): The main artificial beach along the Seine, complete with sand, palm trees, and lounge chairs
• Bassin de la Villette (19th): Free water sports, including kayaking and pedal boats
• Square Tino Rossi (5th): Evening dance sessions with different themes each night

Outdoor Cinema at La Villette

• Parc de la Villette (19th): Free outdoor screenings every Wednesday to Sunday evening from mid-July to mid-August
• Bring your own blanket or rent a deck chair for a small fee
• Films are shown in original language with French subtitles

Free Cultural Events

• Jardin Tino Rossi (5th): Free tango lessons every Sunday evening
• Place de la République: Street dance workshops every Saturday afternoon
• Montsouris Park (14th): Jazz concerts on weekends throughout summer
• Pelouse de Reuilly (12th): Free classical music concerts during Paris Summer Festival

Autumn (September – November)

Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre

• Location: Throughout Montmartre (18th)
• Timing: First weekend of October
• Features: Free wine tastings, traditional grape harvest procession, street performances
• Don’t miss: The fireworks display at Sacré-Cœur on Saturday night

Paris Photo Month

• Over 100 free photography exhibitions across the city
• Maison Européenne de la Photographie (4th): Free entry on Wednesdays after 5pm
• Galerie Nationale du Jeu de Paume (1st): Free first Sunday of each month
• Various metro stations feature temporary photo exhibitions

European Heritage Days

• Third weekend of September
• Free access to normally closed government buildings including:
• Élysée Palace (8th): The French President’s residence
• Hôtel de Ville (4th): Paris’s stunning city hall
• Palais du Luxembourg (6th): Home of the French Senate
• National Assembly (7th): Usually includes guided tours

Winter (December – February)

Holiday Light Displays

• Champs-Élysées (8th): Spectacular light show from late November to early January
• Bercy Village (12th): Covered passage with magical winter decorations
• Place Vendôme (1st): Elegant holiday decorations
• Rue du Commerce (15th): Local favorite for holiday lights

Department Store Windows

• Galeries Lafayette (9th): Animated displays with daily shows from 10am to 8pm
• Printemps Haussmann (9th): Sophisticated mechanical displays
• BHV Marais (4th): Local-favorite window displays
• Le Bon Marché (7th): Artistic installations combining fashion and art

Free Winter Activities

• Ice skating at Hôtel de Ville (4th): Free rink in front of City Hall (bring your own skates)
• Winter garden at Forum des Halles (1st): Indoor tropical garden perfect for cold days
• Marché de Noël at La Défense: Largest free Christmas market in the region
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th): Free choir performances in historic churches throughout December

You’ll find little Christmas markets (Marche de Noel) popping up all over the city.

More of my Paris posts!

The absolute best things to do in Paris, including great tours – and some quirky ones.

Canal boating – underground – along Saint Martin

12 mouth-watering foods to try in Paris

Shop along the Seine at the bouquinistes for fab souvenirs

You might to see my picks for the best rooftop bars in Paris

I loved exploring Paris in a little 2CV – when my feet got tired!

Even if you don’t get to the opera, a tour of Palais Garnier Opera House is breathtaking

Check out the Go City Paris pass which includes things like wine tasting tours, as well as the heroes like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and 90 more attractions. If you’re here for a few days, it would be worth checking out my comparison guide to see if you’d save money buy buying the pass, over individual tickets to each attraction.