One of the most romantic places in the world, Paris attracts visitors from far and wide who want to experience all that the city of love has to offer. However, it can be an expensive trip if you don’t know where the free places to visit in Paris are. So while you visit the French capital you want to know where to go. That’s why I decided to put together this guide to the very best places to visit in Paris on a shoestring budget.
Pro tip: Paris airport transfers are the most convenient way to get to your hotel and avoid going through busy and unfamiliar neighborhoods (especially recommended at night). Book in advance!
#1 Musée de la Vie Romantique
As the name suggests, this museum is an absolute must see for those who are in Paris to savor the romantic atmosphere that the city is famed for. Situated at the end of a beautifully cobbled lane, the villa that houses the museum dedicated to painter Ary Scheffer and writer George Sand is well worth a visit. This museum can’t be omitted in the places you have to visit in Paris.
#2 La Promenade Plantée
Get above the city streets on this old railroad track that has been rejuvenated by a complete floral makeover. Pick it up at the Avenue Daumesnil and walk the 4.5 kilometres of stunningly beautiful walkway high above the hustle and bustle of the 12th arrondissement.
#3 Arènes de Lutèce
Throw yourself back to Roman times by visiting what is considered to be the longest amphitheater that the Roman Empire ever constructed. Built in 1AD, this is a part of the city that should not be missed.
#4 Canal Saint-Martin
This wonderful waterside spot is the perfect place for people watching, and there are no better to watch than the Parisians who flock to Canal St-Martin. This should definitely be in your top 10 places to see in Paris!
#5 Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris
If the Gothic era is something you admire, then a trip to the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris is an absolute must. Walk along the Seine and take in the wonderful structure from a different angle before getting up close and personal with the gargoyles that adorn this Parisian icon.
Pro tip: for less than $20 dollar you can do the popular Notre Dame Guided Tour. Really interesting to know all the little wonders of the cathedral.
#6 Parc du Champ de Mars
This wonderfully well maintained park at the foot of the Eiffel Tower is a fantastic place to share a bottle of wine, a baguette and some delicious French cheese as you soak up the atmosphere and watch the nightly light show that happens at dusk.
#7 Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
The city’s Museum of Modern Art is a favourite haunt of many of the culture vultures that flock to France’s capital each year. With works by everyone from Juan Gris through to Pierre Alechinsky, this is a fantastic place to while away an afternoon.
#8 Basilique du Sacré Coeur
Situated in the heart of the ever-popular Montmartre district, the Basilique du Sacré Coeur is a magnificently ornate structure both inside and out. Visitors can enjoy the basilica for free, however there is a small charge to enter into the crypt or climb to the top of the famous dome.
Pro tip: you can join the Montmartre walking tour to discover local cafes and shops along the way to the Basilique du Sacré Coeur!
#9 Cimitière du Montparnasse
Visit the final resting place of many of Paris’ rich and famous where the likes of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir are buried. The grounds are kept immaculately, making for an idyllic stroll in an otherwise busy city.
#10 Atelier Brancusi
Brancusi’s studio has been lovingly recreated in front of the Pompidou Centre and visitors can wander around the famous Romanian sculptor’s workshop for free.
Book a Tour
There you have it, 10 places to visit in Paris. The best thing: they are completely free attractions that you can enjoy the next time you visit the city. However, there are some things that you simply cannot cut back on. So, no matter what your budget is, always take out some travel insurance wherever and whenever you travel abroad.
Of course you could be planning and organizing the visits to these popular places in Paris yourself. But we understand this is not for everyone, especially when you want to know a little bit more details about the places you’re visiting. If you’re looking for a stressless trip with a bit more guidance and deep-diving into places, you can book some tours in advance.
