TOP FREE THINGS TO DO IN PARIS

Introduction : TOP 33 FREE THINGS TO DO IN PARIS

Paris might be known as one of the world’s most expensive cities, but here’s the good news: some of the most magical Parisian experiences won’t cost you a single euro! As someone who’s wandered those charming streets more times than I can count, I’ve put together this ultimate list of free activities that’ll make your Paris trip unforgettable without emptying your wallet.

So grab your comfiest walking shoes and let’s dive into the City of Light’s best-kept free secrets!

Iconic Parisian Landmarks

1. Stroll Through the Tuileries Gardens

The Tuileries Gardens, stretching from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde, offer a perfect respite from city exploration. These manicured gardens feature sculptures, fountains, and in summer, free deck chairs for soaking up the sun. Bring a baguette and cheese for an impromptu picnic surrounded by Parisian elegance.

2. Discover Notre-Dame Cathedral (Exterior)

While interior visits remain suspended during reconstruction after the 2019 fire, viewing the cathedral’s magnificent exterior remains a must-do. The flying buttresses and Gothic architecture are visible from the square in front, and the progress on restoration efforts makes for an evolving experience.

3. Climb to Sacré-Cœur Basilica

The gleaming white basilica crowning Montmartre offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Paris. The climb up the hill is free, as is entrance to this stunning church. Sunset is particularly magical here, as the entire city spreads before you in golden light.

4. Visit the Flower Market on Île de la Cité

Wander through the fragrant stalls of this historic flower market dating back to 1808. On Sundays, it transforms into a bird market, adding cheerful chirping to the sensory experience. Just looking costs nothing, and it’s a delightful way to experience authentic Parisian daily life.

5. Walk the Champs-Élysées

While actually shopping here might require a platinum credit card, window shopping along this famous avenue costs nothing. Stroll from Place de la Concorde all the way to the Arc de Triomphe, taking in the grandeur of this iconic boulevard and people-watching to your heart’s content.

Parks and Green Spaces

6. Relax in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Ever wondered why Parisians always look so relaxed? This might be their secret. Located in the 19th arrondissement, this less touristy park features dramatic cliffs, a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and a temple perched on a rock overlooking a lake. It’s like finding a magical landscape in the middle of the city.

7. Discover Luxembourg Gardens

The elegant gardens surrounding the Luxembourg Palace offer a perfect blend of French and English landscaping styles. Watch locals playing chess, children sailing toy boats in the central pond, or just relax in one of the iconic green metal chairs scattered throughout the park.

8. Explore Parc Monceau

This romantic English-style garden in the 8th arrondissement features a Renaissance archway, a pyramid, a Chinese fort, and various sculptures. Frequented by locals rather than tourists, it’s perfect for experiencing Parisian life as a local would.

9. Walk Along Canal Saint-Martin

This picturesque canal in northeast Paris is lined with trees and crossed by arched footbridges. It’s become increasingly trendy in recent years, and you’ll find young Parisians hanging out along its banks, especially in summer evenings. The people-watching here is top-notch!

10. Picnic on the Seine Banks

The banks of the Seine transform into a social hub during warm weather. Grab some affordable provisions from a local grocery store and join the locals for an impromptu riverside picnic. The stretch near Île Saint-Louis is particularly charming.

Museums and Culture (Free Days or Always Free)

11. Visit Major Museums on Free First Sundays

Many of Paris’s most famous museums—including the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou—offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. Plan accordingly to see world-class art without spending a dime! Yes, the lines can be long, but what’s a little wait when you’re saving €15-20 per museum?

12. Explore Petit Palais

This often-overlooked gem houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts and is completely free all year round. The building itself is stunning, with a beautiful inner courtyard café where you can rest without any obligation to purchase.

13. Discover Maison de Victor Hugo

Located on Place des Vosges (itself worth a visit), this museum dedicated to the famous French writer is housed in the apartment where he lived for 16 years. Free permanent collections let you step into the world of the man who gave us “Les Misérables” and “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.”

14. Visit Maison de Balzac

Another literary treasure, this house museum dedicated to novelist Honoré de Balzac offers free access to its permanent collections. It’s a bit off the beaten path in the 16th arrondissement, which means fewer crowds.

15. Tour Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

The city’s modern art museum offers free admission to its permanent collections, featuring works by Picasso, Matisse, and many others. Located in the eastern wing of the Palais de Tokyo, it’s a fantastic alternative to the often crowded Centre Pompidou.

Hidden Gems and Local Experiences

16. Discover Arènes de Lutèce

Hidden in the 5th arrondissement lies one of the most important ancient Roman ruins in Paris—an amphitheater that once seated 15,000 people. Today, it’s a peaceful park where locals play pétanque and children kick soccer balls where gladiators once fought. How’s that for a history lesson?

17. Explore Village Saint-Paul

This hidden network of courtyards and passages in the Marais district houses antique dealers, artisans, and cafés. It’s like stepping into a secret version of Paris that many tourists miss entirely.

18. Find Street Art in Belleville

This diverse, artistic neighborhood offers an ever-changing outdoor gallery of street art. Rue Denoyez is particularly famous for its authorized graffiti walls, where artists regularly create new works.

19. Wander Through Père Lachaise Cemetery

It might sound macabre, but this is actually one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Paris. Final resting place to Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, and countless others, it’s like an open-air museum set in a gorgeous park.

20. Explore Paris’s Covered Passages

These 19th-century glass-roofed shopping arcades offer shelter from rain and fascinating glimpses into historical Paris. Passage des Panoramas, Passage Jouffroy, and Galerie Vivienne are particularly worth seeking out.

Markets and Shopping (Looking is Free!)

21. Browse Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

The world’s largest flea market is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky collectibles. While purchases will cost you, wandering through this labyrinthine market is an adventure in itself.

22. Visit Food Markets

Experiencing the sensory delights of a Parisian food market costs nothing (unless you give in to temptation!). Try Marché d’Aligre for a truly local experience or Marché Bastille for one of the city’s largest markets.

23. Window Shop in Le Marais

This fashionable district is perfect for window shopping, featuring everything from high-end boutiques to quirky independent shops. Sunday is particularly lively as many shops remain open while others throughout Paris close.

24. Browse Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

This historic English-language bookstore near Notre-Dame has been a literary landmark since 1951. While buying books isn’t free, browsing the charming, cramped aisles and soaking in the literary atmosphere costs nothing.

25. Explore Galeries Lafayette (for the dome view)

The famous department store’s spectacular stained-glass dome is worth seeing, and in winter, their elaborate Christmas displays are legendary. Best of all, you can access the rooftop terrace for free panoramic views of the city.

Unique Parisian Experiences

26. Attend Free Music Concerts

Paris offers numerous free concerts, especially in summer. Check out the free organ concerts at churches like Saint-Sulpice or summer performances in parks like Parc Floral de Paris.

27. Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle

Every evening, on the hour, the Eiffel Tower puts on a spectacular light show for five minutes. Find a good viewing spot (Trocadéro offers a classic view) and enjoy this magical Parisian moment.

28. Join a Free Walking Tour

Several companies offer “pay-what-you-wish” walking tours covering different neighborhoods and themes. While a tip is appreciated, technically you could participate for free.

29. Visit the Fashion Show at Galeries Lafayette

On Friday afternoons, the department store hosts a free 30-minute fashion show. You’ll need to reserve in advance on their website, but it’s a fantastic way to experience a slice of Paris’s fashion world without paying couture prices.

30. Explore La Coulée Verte

This elevated park built on an old railway line inspired New York’s High Line. The 4.5 km green pathway offers unique views of the city from above, with gardens, water features, and art installations along the way.

Seasonal Free Activities

31. Plages de Paris (Paris Beaches)

During summer months, artificial beaches pop up along the Seine complete with sand, palm trees, and lounge chairs. It’s a quirky Parisian tradition that brings beach vibes to the urban landscape.

32. Nuit Blanche

This annual all-night arts festival transforms the city on the first Saturday of October. Museums stay open all night, and art installations take over public spaces, all for free.

33. Christmas Markets and Displays

From mid-November through December, Paris sparkles with holiday decorations and Christmas markets. The elaborate window displays at department stores like Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are particularly magical.

Final Thoughts

Paris proves that some of the best things in life really are free. The city’s beauty, culture, and atmosphere can be thoroughly enjoyed without spending a fortune. Whether you’re admiring architectural masterpieces, picnicking in manicured gardens, or simply watching Parisian life unfold from a park bench, these free experiences often create the most lasting memories.

Remember that while these activities are free, Paris shines brightest when you approach it with curiosity and openness. Strike up conversations with locals, wander down streets just because they look interesting, and don’t be afraid to get lost occasionally—some of the best discoveries happen when you venture off your planned route.

So go ahead and save your euros for that occasional special meal or must-have souvenir. The heart and soul of Paris are yours to enjoy, absolutely free of charge!