Paris Overview
Paris, the enchanting capital of France, has captivated travelers for centuries with its perfect blend of historic grandeur and modern sophistication. From the iron lattice of the Eiffel Tower to the artistic treasures of the Louvre, from charming cobblestone streets to world-renowned cuisine, Paris offers an experience unlike any other city on Earth.
Known as the "City of Light" (La Ville Lumiere), Paris earned this nickname both for its leading role in the Age of Enlightenment and for being one of the first cities to adopt gas street lighting. Today, the city continues to illuminate the world through fashion, art, gastronomy, and culture.
While Paris has a reputation for being expensive, savvy travelers can experience its magic on various budgets. Whether you're a backpacker counting euros or a luxury seeker splurging on Michelin stars, this guide will help you plan a Paris trip that fits your wallet while maximizing your experience.
Good to Know
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts) arranged in a clockwise spiral from the center. Lower numbers (1-8) are central and typically more expensive, while higher numbers offer better value with excellent Metro connections.
Paris Cost Breakdown
Understanding Paris costs is essential for trip planning. Here's a detailed breakdown by budget level to help you estimate your daily expenses.
Budget Travel
$80-$120/day- Accommodation: $30-$50 - Hostels, budget hotels in outer arrondissements
- Food: $20-$30 - Bakeries, markets, street food, picnics
- Transport: $8-$12 - Metro day pass, walking
- Activities: $15-$25 - Free museums (1st Sunday), parks, neighborhoods
Tip: Stay in the 10th, 11th, or 18th arrondissements for the best value.
Mid-Range
$150-$250/day- Accommodation: $100-$150 - 3-star hotels, boutique hotels, nice Airbnbs
- Food: $40-$60 - Cafes, bistros, occasional nice restaurants
- Transport: $10-$20 - Metro, occasional taxis/Uber
- Activities: $30-$50 - Major museums, Seine cruise, guided tours
Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets to save hours at popular attractions.
Luxury
$350+/day- Accommodation: $300+ - 4-5 star hotels, palace hotels
- Food: $100-$200+ - Fine dining, Michelin-starred restaurants
- Transport: $50+ - Private transfers, taxis
- Activities: $100+ - Private tours, exclusive experiences, shows
Tip: Book well in advance for Michelin restaurants and exclusive experiences.
Detailed Cost Reference
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel/Hotel (per night) | $30-$50 | $100-$180 | $300-$800+ |
| Breakfast | $5-$8 | $12-$18 | $25-$50 |
| Lunch | $8-$15 | $18-$30 | $40-$80 |
| Dinner | $12-$20 | $30-$60 | $80-$200+ |
| Metro single ticket | $2.15 (carnet of 10: $17) | ||
| Louvre Museum | $17 (free 1st Sunday & under 26 EU residents) | ||
| Eiffel Tower (summit) | $28-$35 | ||
| Seine River Cruise | $16-$70 | ||
Get Your Personalized Paris Budget
Use our calculator to get an accurate estimate based on your travel dates, group size, and preferred travel style.
Calculate NowBest Time to Visit Paris
Paris is beautiful year-round, but timing your visit can significantly impact both your experience and your budget. Here's what to expect in each season.
Spring (March-May)
- Weather: 10-18°C (50-64°F), occasional rain
- Crowds: Moderate, increasing toward May
- Prices: Medium-high, especially around Easter
- Highlights: Cherry blossoms, cafe terraces open, pleasant walks
The best overall time to visit. Perfect weather for walking, beautiful gardens, and manageable crowds.
Summer (June-August)
- Weather: 20-30°C (68-86°F), occasional heatwaves
- Crowds: Very high, especially July
- Prices: Peak season rates
- Highlights: Paris Plages, long days, outdoor festivals
Longest days but highest prices and crowds. August sees many Parisians leave, so some local shops close but tourist areas remain busy.
Fall (September-November)
- Weather: 10-18°C (50-64°F), crisp and pleasant
- Crowds: Moderate, decreasing after October
- Prices: Dropping, especially November
- Highlights: Fall foliage, wine harvest, fashion weeks
Excellent choice with comfortable weather, beautiful colors, and decreasing crowds. September rivals spring for best overall time.
Winter (December-February)
- Weather: 3-8°C (37-46°F), grey but mild
- Crowds: Low (except Christmas/New Year)
- Prices: Lowest of the year (excluding holidays)
- Highlights: Christmas markets, sales (January), romantic atmosphere
Best for budget travelers and those seeking authentic Parisian life. January-February offer the lowest prices. Fewer daylight hours but magical holiday atmosphere in December.
Budget Tip: When to Find the Best Deals
For the cheapest Paris trip, aim for mid-January to February (after holiday crowds) or early November (before Christmas tourism). Flight prices from North America can be 40-50% lower than peak summer rates, and hotels often offer significant discounts.
Where to Stay in Paris
Choosing the right neighborhood (arrondissement) can make or break your Paris experience. Here's a breakdown of the best areas for different types of travelers.
Le Marais (3rd & 4th)
One of Paris's most charming neighborhoods with medieval architecture, trendy boutiques, excellent museums, and vibrant nightlife. Great for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action.
Best for: First-timers, culture lovers, LGBTQ+ travelers, foodies
Montmartre (18th)
The artistic heart of Paris with stunning views from Sacre-Coeur, charming village atmosphere, and more affordable options than central areas. Home to the famous Moulin Rouge.
Best for: Budget travelers, artists, couples, photography enthusiasts
Saint-Germain-des-Pres (6th)
The intellectual and literary heart of Paris on the Left Bank. Stunning architecture, famous cafes (Cafe de Flore, Les Deux Magots), art galleries, and excellent restaurants.
Best for: Literature lovers, luxury travelers, coffee culture enthusiasts
Bastille & Oberkampf (11th)
A lively, authentic neighborhood beloved by young Parisians. Excellent nightlife, diverse food scene, and great value for money while still being well-connected by Metro.
Best for: Budget travelers, nightlife seekers, those wanting a local experience
Latin Quarter (5th)
The historic student quarter home to the Sorbonne, with narrow medieval streets, bookshops, and lively atmosphere. Close to Notre-Dame and Luxembourg Gardens.
Best for: Students, history buffs, book lovers, central location seekers
Champs-Elysees Area (8th)
Paris's most glamorous avenue with high-end shopping, palace hotels, and proximity to the Arc de Triomphe. Best for those prioritizing luxury and iconic Paris imagery.
Best for: Luxury travelers, shoppers, business travelers
Top Attractions in Paris
From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, here are the must-see attractions in Paris with pricing and tips.
Eiffel Tower
The iconic symbol of Paris offers breathtaking views from three levels. Book tickets online to skip the notoriously long queues.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for the best experience - watch the city transform as lights come on. The tower sparkles for 5 minutes every hour after dark.
Louvre Museum
The world's largest art museum houses over 35,000 works including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory. Plan your visit strategically - you can't see everything in one day.
Pro Tip: Enter through the less crowded Porte des Lions entrance or book timed tickets online. Wednesday and Friday evenings (until 9:45 PM) are less crowded.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
The legendary Gothic cathedral is currently under restoration after the 2019 fire, with reopening planned for December 2024. The exterior and square are still impressive.
Pro Tip: Walk along the Seine for the best exterior views. Visit Sainte-Chapelle nearby for stunning Gothic architecture and stained glass you can actually enter.
Sacre-Coeur & Montmartre
The stunning white basilica atop Montmartre hill offers panoramic views of Paris. The surrounding village neighborhood is perfect for wandering.
Pro Tip: Take the funicular up (one Metro ticket) but walk down through the charming streets. Visit Place du Tertre to see artists at work, but avoid the overpriced restaurants here.
Palace of Versailles
The opulent palace of Louis XIV is a must-see day trip from Paris. The Hall of Mirrors and gardens are extraordinary.
Pro Tip: Go on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday to avoid the worst crowds. Arrive when gates open (9 AM) and start with the gardens if the palace queue is long.
Musee d'Orsay
Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, this museum features the world's largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir.
Pro Tip: Visit on Thursday evening (open until 9:45 PM) for smaller crowds. The cafe behind the giant clock offers unique views of Montmartre.
Free Things to Do in Paris
Luxembourg Gardens
Beautiful formal gardens perfect for picnics and people-watching
Walk Along the Seine
The UNESCO-listed riverbanks offer stunning views and bookstalls
Pere Lachaise Cemetery
Visit the graves of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Chopin
Le Marais Exploration
Wander through historic streets, courtyards, and free galleries
Free Museum Days
Many museums are free on the 1st Sunday of each month
Street Performances
Enjoy musicians at Metro stations and along the river
Food & Dining in Paris
Paris is a culinary paradise with options for every budget. From buttery croissants to Michelin-starred cuisine, here's how to eat well without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Parisian Foods
-
Croissants & Pain au Chocolat - $1.50-$3
Start your day at a local boulangerie. Look for "fait maison" (homemade) signs.
-
Croque Monsieur/Madame - $8-$14
The classic French grilled ham and cheese sandwich (Madame has a fried egg on top).
-
Steak Frites - $18-$35
Simple perfection - a quality steak with crispy fries. Try it at a traditional bistro.
-
French Onion Soup - $10-$18
Rich, savory broth with caramelized onions topped with crusty bread and melted cheese.
-
Macarons - $2-$4 each
These delicate cookies are an art form at places like Laduree and Pierre Herme.
-
Crepes - $4-$10
Sweet or savory, found at creperies or street stands throughout the city.
Budget Eating Tips
- Formule/Menu du Jour: Most restaurants offer fixed-price lunch menus ($15-$25) that are significantly cheaper than dinner a la carte.
- Boulangeries: Pick up sandwiches, quiches, and pastries for $5-$8. Much cheaper than sitting at a cafe.
- Markets: Visit street markets for fresh produce, cheese, and charcuterie. Perfect for picnics at parks.
- Supermarkets: Monoprix and Carrefour have excellent prepared foods, wine, and picnic supplies at reasonable prices.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Skip restaurants right next to major attractions. Walk a few blocks for better prices and quality.
- Stand at the Bar: Coffee and drinks are cheaper when consumed standing at the bar ("au comptoir") vs. seated at a table.
Recommended Spots by Budget
Budget ($)
- L'As du Fallafel - Best falafel in Le Marais ($8-$12)
- Breizh Cafe - Authentic Breton crepes ($10-$15)
- Pink Mamma - Italian in a stunning space ($15-$25)
- Rue Montorgueil - Street full of food options
Mid-Range ($$)
- Le Bouillon Chartier - Historic brasserie ($15-$25)
- Cafe de Flore - Classic literary cafe ($20-$40)
- Le Comptoir du Pantheon - Traditional bistro ($25-$40)
- Frenchie To Go - Gourmet takeaway ($15-$25)
Special Occasion ($$$)
- Le Jules Verne - Eiffel Tower dining
- Septime - Modern French (1 Michelin star)
- Le Cinq - Classic French (3 Michelin stars)
- L'Ambroisie - Legendary (3 Michelin stars)
Getting Around Paris
Paris has an excellent public transportation system that makes getting around easy and affordable. Here's everything you need to know.
Transport Tips
- Paris Visite Pass: Unlimited travel for 1-5 days. Only worth it if you'll use Metro 4+ times daily.
- Navigo Easy: A rechargeable card you can load with tickets - no more paper tickets!
- Walking: Paris is very walkable. Many attractions in central areas are within 20-30 minutes of each other.
- Airport Transfer: RER B train from CDG to central Paris costs $11.50 and takes 35-50 minutes.
- Avoid Rush Hour: Metro gets crowded 8-9:30 AM and 5:30-7:30 PM on weekdays.
Money-Saving Tips for Paris
Paris doesn't have to drain your bank account. Here are insider tips to stretch your euros further.
Visit Museums on Free Days
Most national museums (Louvre, Orsay, etc.) are free on the first Sunday of each month. Under 26? EU residents get free entry year-round. Under 18? Free everywhere.
Get the Paris Museum Pass
If visiting multiple museums, the Paris Museum Pass ($57/2 days, $72/4 days) provides skip-the-line access and can save money if you visit 3+ museums.
Eat Like a Local
Have your main meal at lunch when restaurants offer fixed-price menus (formules) at 30-50% less than dinner. Breakfast at a boulangerie instead of your hotel.
Picnic in the Parks
Buy fresh bread, cheese, charcuterie, and wine from markets or supermarkets. Enjoy a gourmet picnic at Luxembourg Gardens, Champ de Mars, or along the Seine.
Walk Everywhere
Paris is incredibly walkable. Many major attractions are within 2-3 km of each other. You'll discover charming streets and save on transport.
Book Skip-the-Line Tickets
Time is money. Pre-booking tickets for popular attractions saves hours of queuing that you could spend enjoying (free!) Paris experiences.
Stay in Outer Arrondissements
The 10th, 11th, 18th, and 19th arrondissements offer significantly lower hotel prices while still having excellent Metro access.
Use Tap Water
Paris tap water is excellent. Ask for "une carafe d'eau" at restaurants (free) instead of buying bottled water. Refill bottles at public fountains.
Travel Off-Season
January-February and November offer the lowest prices on flights and hotels. You'll also face fewer crowds at attractions.
Take Free Walking Tours
Companies like Sandemans offer free walking tours (tip-based). Great way to get oriented and learn history from local guides.
Sample Paris Itineraries
Here are suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your time in Paris, whether you have a long weekend or a full week.
3-Day Paris Itinerary - The Essentials
Estimated Budget: $350-$800 (excluding flights)
- Morning: Eiffel Tower (book sunrise/early tickets to avoid crowds)
- Lunch: Picnic on Champ de Mars or Rue Cler market
- Afternoon: Walk to Arc de Triomphe via Champs-Elysees
- Evening: Seine River cruise at sunset, dinner in Le Marais
- Morning: Louvre Museum (arrive at opening, focus on highlights)
- Lunch: Cafe near Palais Royal gardens
- Afternoon: Walk through Tuileries to Place de la Concorde, explore the Marais
- Evening: Dinner in the Latin Quarter, walk by Notre-Dame (exterior)
- Morning: Sacre-Coeur and Montmartre village
- Lunch: Crepes in Montmartre
- Afternoon: Musee d'Orsay or Saint-Germain-des-Pres exploration
- Evening: Luxembourg Gardens stroll, farewell dinner in Saint-Germain
5-Day Paris Itinerary - Deep Dive
Estimated Budget: $550-$1,200 (excluding flights)
Follow the 3-day itinerary above for your first three days.
- Morning: Early train to Versailles, tour the Palace
- Lunch: Picnic in the gardens or restaurant in town
- Afternoon: Explore the gardens, Trianon palaces
- Evening: Return to Paris, casual dinner in your neighborhood
- Morning: Pere Lachaise Cemetery or Canal Saint-Martin
- Lunch: Explore the 10th or 11th arrondissement
- Afternoon: Shopping (Le Marais boutiques or department stores)
- Evening: Aperitif along the Seine, special farewell dinner
7-Day Paris Itinerary - The Complete Experience
Estimated Budget: $800-$1,800 (excluding flights)
Follow the 5-day itinerary above for your first five days.
- Morning: Marche d'Aligre or Marche des Enfants Rouges
- Lunch: Market finds or neighborhood bistro
- Afternoon: Rodin Museum or Picasso Museum
- Evening: Explore Belleville or Oberkampf for dinner and nightlife
- Option A: Day trip to Giverny (Monet's Gardens) or Champagne region
- Option B: Revisit favorite spots, explore new neighborhoods
- Option C: Cooking class, perfume workshop, or wine tasting
- Evening: Memorable farewell dinner, evening Seine walk
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions about visiting Paris.
A budget traveler can expect to spend $80-$120 per day in Paris, including hostel accommodation, street food, and public transport. Mid-range travelers typically spend $150-$250 per day with 3-star hotels and restaurant meals. Luxury travelers should budget $350+ per day for 5-star hotels and fine dining.
The cheapest time to visit Paris is during the winter months (January-February, excluding Christmas/New Year) and late fall (November). During these periods, hotel prices drop by 30-40%, and there are fewer crowds at attractions. Shoulder seasons (March-April, October) offer a good balance of weather and prices.
Paris can be expensive, but it's possible to visit on various budgets. While it ranks among Europe's pricier cities, budget travelers can manage with $80-120/day by staying in hostels, eating at bakeries and markets, and using public transport. Many attractions like parks, churches, and neighborhood walks are free.
Most travelers find 4-5 days ideal for Paris to see major attractions without rushing. Three days is the minimum to cover essentials (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre). A week allows for day trips to Versailles and deeper exploration of neighborhoods. First-time visitors should plan at least 4 days.
The best budget-friendly areas in Paris include the 10th, 11th, 18th (Montmartre), and 19th arrondissements. The 10th and 11th offer excellent value with good Metro access and vibrant nightlife. Montmartre provides charm at lower prices. Avoid the 1st-8th arrondissements if on a tight budget, as these central areas are significantly more expensive.
While many Parisians speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few French phrases is appreciated and can enhance your experience. Start interactions with "Bonjour" (hello), say "S'il vous plait" (please), and "Merci" (thank you). This small effort goes a long way in receiving friendly service.
Paris is generally safe for tourists. The main concerns are pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas (Metro, Eiffel Tower, Louvre) and common scams. Keep belongings secure, be wary of overly friendly strangers at tourist sites, and avoid the areas around Gare du Nord late at night. Otherwise, standard city precautions apply.
Service is included in French restaurant bills by law ("service compris"). Tipping is not required but appreciated for excellent service. Leaving small change or rounding up is common. For exceptional service, 5-10% is generous. Never feel obligated to tip 15-20% as you might in the US.
Ready to Plan Your Paris Trip?
Get a personalized budget estimate for your Paris adventure based on your travel dates, group size, and preferred travel style.
Calculate Your Paris Budget NowFree, instant estimates with no sign-up required
