Best FREE Things to Do in Paris
Traveling to Paris is at the top of most romantics’ and travel enthusiasts’ bucket lists, and it’s one of the most popular destinations for expats in France. Most think of a trip to Paris as an expensive affair. However, there are ways to enjoy this lovely city without breaking the bank.
In this article, we have listed the most enriching free things to do in Paris that will entertain, educate, and relax you.
1. Visit The Notre Dame Cathedral
Paris has several breathtaking cathedrals worth visiting. Notre Dame, a medieval Catholic cathedral, is one of the most popular and iconic sights in the city. It is located on the Île de la Cité in the middle of the Seine.
The towers, gothic buttresses, and stained-glass rose windows offer a unique spiritual and visual experience. The cathedral is home to the crown of thorns—the world’s most valuable Christian relic. Outside, you’ll find several buskers providing entertainment and drawing crowds.
Following the devastating fire of April 2019, the interior of the cathedral was closed and expected to reopen in 2024. However, the stone sculptures, high towers, and magnificent exteriors of the cathedral will leave you speechless.
2. Watch The Eiffel Tower Sparkle
The Eiffel Tower is the main symbol of Paris. Every day, from dusk to early dawn, 20,000 light bulbs light up this iconic landmark.
The tower lights and beacon are lit up for about five minutes every hour, wrapping the structure in golden sparkle.
As the Eiffel tower is visible from anywhere in Paris, you are most unlikely to miss the event.
3. Wander Around Montmartre
Located in Paris’s 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is a large hill that maintains its village vibe. You can spend a day walking the streets and admiring the city’s beauty and aesthetics.
The square is filled with artists’ studios as it was once home to many creative minds. Soak up the place’s rich history, and treat yourself to the amazing paintings, street foods, and tourist souvenirs that the street vendors display.
Climb to the top of the hill for a scenic view of the most iconic places in Paris.
4. Relax In The Luxembourg Gardens
Inspired by the world-famous Boboli Gardens in Florence, the Luxembourg Gardens is the largest park in Paris. The whimsical garden has a central pond where you can rent tiny sailboats to race across the water. It also boasts several romantic statues.
The Medici Fountain is one of the biggest attractions of this place, lending it just the right touch of brooding mystery.
The grounds also have an orchard, an apiary, and a rose garden. It is the best place to be in the summer months, with a clear sky and the flowers in full bloom.
5. Enjoy The View From The Printemps Rooftop Cafe
The Printemps Rooftop Cafe and Terrace gives you a bird’s eye view of the whole of Paris. The views are stunning, making you feel like you are right in the middle of this magnificent city.
On one end, you get a view of the hills of Montmartre and Sacre Coeur, whereas, on the other end, you can see the iconic Eiffel Tower and the Grand Palais. The view from the cafe is breathtaking, regardless of the seat you choose.
6. Window Shop Along The Champs-Elysees
The Champs Elysees, which runs between the Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe, is popular with locals and tourists. It is dotted with opulent boutiques and restaurants and is a favorite celebrity hangout spot. It offers an incredible perspective of the Arc De Triomphe.
You might be able to catch one of the main events, such as the Bastille Day military parade or the entrance of the Tour de France, if you arrive at the right time. The Champs Elysees transforms into a magical destination with an incredible display of lights during the Christmas season.
The best time to window shop at this location is in the morning when there are fewer people.
7. Explore The Pere Lachaise Cemetery
The Pere Lachaise cemetery is Paris’ largest and the world’s most visited cemetery. Located in the 20th arrondissement, it is the world’s first garden cemetery and holds graves dating back to the start of settlement in the city. The cemetery has more than 40,000 Parisian graves.
It is the final resting place of many well-known figures like Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, and Georges Rodenbach.
The cemetery is a work of art with well-manicured lawns, labyrinth pathways, and a peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors come here to admire the elaborate gravestones and pay tribute to their favorite legends. However, the authorities have barricaded off some of the tombs to protect them from obsessive fans.
Conclusion
With so many things to see and do, a trip to Paris can quickly become expensive. I hope this travel guide helps you plan a budget-friendly trip to the City of Lights. And if you end up enjoying so much that you start thinking about moving to France, be sure to read our article and see if the country is still expat friendly.
