When you think of Paris, you might picture luxury: steak frites, the Champs-Élysées, and lots of glamorous activities and spending all your savings. Maybe that’s just what I thought!  

But believe it or not, flying into Paris can actually be really affordable. In fact, I sometimes book flights into Paris just because it’s cheaper than flying directly to my final destination—and then I hop around Europe from there. I have used SkyScanner 90% of the time for flights, but I do usually book through the airline directly once exploring my options on SkyScanner. This way I filter out the prices and departure times. 

Accommodations can be tricky, especially if you’re trying to stay somewhere safe and nice, but prices in the city center can be high. I’ve personally always stayed on the outskirts of Paris, which has saved me a ton of money. The public transportation is quick and convenient, and the extra 30 minutes into the city is 100% worth it to stay somewhere affordable. 

Maisons-Laffitte  is where we typically stay but here are other affordable arrondissements with easy metro access: 

• Montreuil
• Saint-Ouen
• 19th arrondissement 

The metro might seem intimidating at first, but I promise it will become your best friend. Or, my personal favorite: the shoelace express (aka walking). Paris is a large city, but if you break your exploration down by arrondissement, walking becomes super doable.

Learn more about how to spend 5 perfect days in Paris

The Metro is surprisingly easy to navigate, even if you don’t speak French. Most major landmarks (like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, or Notre-Dame) have nearby stations, and the stop names usually reflect the landmark itself, making it simple to know where to get off. Google Maps will direct you the direction of the Metro line you should take, how many stops and next available metros. 

Once you’ve got your flight and accommodations sorted, being in Paris can be almost entirely free—aside from food and select museum tickets. The city is incredibly walkable, and just strolling through each arrondissement lets you experience so much. Some of the most iconic landmarks—like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre (from the outside), and the city’s beautiful gardens—are free to admire as you pass by.

Check out which museums are free at the Paris tourist website HERE 

Notable: 

• Free on the 1st Sunday of each month, all year round
  • Musée d’Orsay
• Free admission on the 1st Sunday of each month, from November 1 to March 31 In Paris:
  • Arc de Triomphe 
  • Conciergerie 
  • Notre-Dame 
  • Panthéon 
  • Sainte-Chapelle

One of my favorite adventures when visiting any city is exploring local grocery stores. I love spotting cultural differences in snacks and foods—and, of course, tasting them! Grab some goodies, head to one of Paris’s stunning parks, and enjoy a laid-back picnic. It’s such a fun (and affordable) way to feel like a local. And don’t forget: when in Paris, a stop at the boulangerie is a must. Treat yourself to a pain au chocolat (or three).

My Favorite Parks in Paris

• Tuileries Garden
• Jardin du Luxembourg
• Jardins du Trocadéro
• Square Louise MichelChamp de Mars

Even though Paris is super walkable, I’ve found the public transportation to be very reasonably priced too. The metro and bus system make it easy to get around without having to splurge on Ubers or taxis.

In the end, even a city known for its luxury can be surprisingly budget-friendly with the right mindset and tips. I hope these suggestions help you embrace Paris without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!