There are plenty of ways to keep the costs down on a budget visit to Paris. Follow our handy hints and tips to help you save time and money when planning a visit to Paris. Why not take the stairs at the Eiffel Tower, opt for FREE ENTRY at the Louvre or other money saving options.
Eiffel Tower on a Budget
1. It’s cheaper to climb the stairs up to the second floor that it is to take the lifts. Tickets are cheaper & queues are shorter, giving you an alternative perspective on this iconic attraction. Whilst the steps will only take you to the second floor rather than the top, the views remain spectacular. More information available within our Eiffel Tower Guide.
2. View the Eiffel Tower from ground level and save on admission charges altogether. You can still enter the ground level space directly below, enjoying the restored historic gardens, esplanade and still be able to stand right beneath the Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, pack a picnic and find a space within the Parc du Champ de Mars to watch the sun go down as the Eiffel Tower lights up before your eyes.
View from the Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower on a Budget; More Ideas
3. The one thing missing in your view of Paris, is of course the Eiffel Tower, so consider alternative viewing observation decks. This not only covers this quandary but also you a offers a less crowded. experience. Try lesser known attractions such at the Montparnasse Tower that not only allows you to have this iconic attraction within your sights but often comes with fewer queues.
4. Whether you are looking to secure views over Paris without costly entrance charges, or want to compliment your climb up the Eiffel Tower, we’ve put together a host of ideas. Follow our guide packed with ideas to help you enjoy a trip to Paris on a budget. More information available within our Best Views of Paris Guide.
5. For a FREE view of the Eiffel Tower, check out the Terrace at Galeries Lafayette that offers you a rooftop experience free of charge & a great chance for a spot of shopping.
The Terrace at Galeries Lafayette
Paris Museums on a Budget
Choose Sundays; many of top Paris Museums, including Musee d’Orsay & Pompidou Centre offer FREE entry on the first Sunday of the month. Many ask you to book in advance for this free entry promotion so check with the museum of your choice.
Free Evening Entry at the Louvre; pick up FREE entry to The Louvre on the first Friday of each month after 6pm, (September to June each year).
Late Night Entry; look out for discounted late night entrance tickets, such as the Musee d’Orsay on Thursday evenings, that not only saves you money but can reduce the crowds too.
Paris Pass; consider a Paris Pass that offers you discounted entrance to over 80+ Paris museums & monuments including the Louvre, Arc De Triomphe, Paris of Versailles.
Lesser Known Entrance for The Louvre; we’re all used to seeing the crowds building around the glass pyramid for those looking to gain access but did you know there is a hidden entrance to the Louvre that offers faster access for those with pre-purchased tickets!
Free Entry For Under 18’s; from Arc de Triomphe to The Louvre, you’ll find many top visitor attractions offering FREE entry for those under 18 years so this can offer significant savings for families.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Paris Parks
There are plenty of beautiful parks around Paris that offer a range of leisure pursuits, many which are free of charge. Why not do as the Parisians do, take in the atmosphere, enjoy a game of boules or simply sit back & relax. Our favourite has to be Jardin du Luxembourg. Set in the heart of the city, it evokes thoughts of a bygone age with a boating lake, adventure playgrounds, an area for adults to partake in Boules and even a puppet show for the youngsters, (seasonal).
Whilst there are small charges in place for some of these activities, it’s a great way to enjoy an afternoon in the heart of Paris on a budget! Pack a picnic and enjoy some leisure time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. More information available at Jardin du Luxembourg.
Velib Bikes in Paris
A Velib bike is a cheap way to get around Paris with options to select either a classic push bike or an electric cycle. We’ve found this to be cost effective method to get around, particularly for shorter journeys where you can take advantage of FREE minutes. By navigating your way around the city by bike, it lends itself to an unique view around the city plus saves you money on transport charges.
Follow our Guide To Velib Bikes.
Disneyland Paris
If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris this year, then worth checking out cheap tickets options to help you keep the costs down at this popular visitor attraction. Find more information within our Guide To Disneyland Paris.
