10 Free Things to do While in Paris
Ooh, la la! Paris baby! The city of lights, romance, and pastries. In my opinion, a place you have to visit at least once in your life. Paris is a place of fantasy and charm and also a place where you'll drop some dollars if you don't do your research! Here's where I come in :)
Surprisingly, there are plenty of things to do in one of the most expensive cities in the world that won't strain your budget. I have compiled a list of all my favorite things to do when I want to save my money for a Michelin starred meal, which is something you SHOULD splurge on when in France.
Visit Jardin des Tuileries
Right between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, lies this gorgeous 55 acre public garden. This sprawling garden boasts picturesque Parisian paths to stroll, ample people watching opportunities, a charming carousel and occasionally a market or event to attend. Grab a picnic lunch and find a sunny spot to feast or take it to go and spot spectacular sculptures.
Visit The Musée de la Sculpture en Plein Air
Come to this beautiful open air museum located right by the Seine. It is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week for your visual pleasure. Free to see and a lovely way to spend a quiet afternoon.
Spend some time in an iconic Bookstore
While in Paris, make sure to stop off at the Shakespeare and Company bookstore. This cozy bookshop has walls lined with new and old books alike and speaking of walls, if they could talk! Once a gathering place for dozens of great authors, artists and thinkers is now a place to slow down a bit, grab a cafe au lait and curl up with a good book.
Take the perfect Instagram
There are so many opportunities all over the beautiful city to take stunning photos, but head to Trocadéro Square to get the perfect shot of you and the infamous Eiffel Tower. Every hour, on the hour, the tower sparkles so get your camera ready!
Stroll down Rue Mouffetard
A Parisian institution! Come to this bustling market on a weekend and spend some time taking in the sights, smells and sounds of Paris. Street performers and artists hang here so grab a bite to eat or a glass of wine (Paris doesn't have an open container law!) and enjoy French entertainment!
Feast your eyes on Modern Art
Take an afternoon and spend some time meandering the halls of Musée d’Art moderne de la Ville de Paris. Occasionally there are exhibits that are entirely optional and may require a small fee, however the museum is always free! Closed Mondays.
Visit Bois de Vincennes
Paris' largest park offers a botanical garden, zoo, and plenty of walking paths for you to enjoy. This park, once part of a forest surrounding an ancient Roman town, still has buildings strewn about and an ancient chariot track for you to find. Open 24/7 all year round.
Explore the iconic Sacre Coeur
Let the sounds and sights of this beautiful basilica lift your spirits. Or if you prefer to literally be lifted, you can pay a small fee to climb the 300 steps (or take the elevator) and enjoy one of the best views of the city. Open 6:30A-10:30P everyday.
Get Gushy in the City of Love
Come to the Wall of Love in Jehan Rictus Square and embrace the romance. Snap a quick picture with this backdrop featuring "I Love You" in over 100 different languages with your loved one, or heck a selfie. We all deserve a little love, especially in Paris!
Find a Free Concert or Festival
Paris offers free concerts year round. There are more options in the summer time but take a look at the following site for a schedule of events and make some time for beautiful live entertainment!
There you have it! 10 things for you to do for free in Paris. Have the best time exploring and make sure to slow down and really see the magic of all that Paris is. Leave a comment and let me know what you think or tell me something you love to do for free while visiting!
