Paris, Please! The Best 5-Day Guide on a Budget

Discover Parisian charm on a budget-friendly adventure.

21 June 2023

Enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Paris by exploring the city's free attractions such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum on certain days. Accommodation options such as hostels and Airbnb rentals can help you save money. Don't forget to indulge in affordable yet delicious street food, and hop on a bike or walk around the city to experience the true French culture.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bienvenue à Paris!

  • Check into Mama Shelter Hotel: a chic, budget-friendly option with funky decor and a lively rooftop bar.
  • Grab a croissant and espresso at the charming La Maison Angelina.
  • Stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, a gorgeous park with fountains, sculptures, and a palace.
  • Browse the shops and boutiques in the trendy Marais neighborhood.
  • End the day with a sunset ride on a Bateaux-Mouches boat along the Seine River.
Day 2

Art, History, and Wine

  • Begin the day at the Musée d'Orsay, home to an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
  • Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower and climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • Enjoy a traditional French lunch at Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy bistro in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.
  • Explore the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral and its surrounding streets.
  • End the day with wine tasting and cheese at La Cave à Bulles, a charming wine bar with a vast selection of organic and biodynamic wines.
Day 3

Fashion and Foodie Fun

  • Start the day at the Palais Galliera, a fashion museum that showcases Parisian style from the 18th century to the present.
  • Indulge in a sweet treat at Pierre Hermé, a revered patisserie known for its macarons.
  • Wander through the colorful markets of Rue Mouffetard, a lively street filled with cheese shops, bakeries, and fresh produce stalls.
  • Check out the street art and trendy boutiques in the bohemian Belleville neighborhood.
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at Le Baratin, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional French cuisine using local, seasonal ingredients.
Day 4

Royalty, Gardens, and Food

  • Explore the extravagant Palace of Versailles, filled with opulent rooms, ornate gardens, and stunning artwork.
  • Have a picnic lunch in the sprawling gardens of Versailles, with fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine.
  • Visit the picturesque Montmartre neighborhood, home to the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret and the stunning Basilica of Sacré-Cœur.
  • Grab a crepe from a street vendor and watch the street performers and artists in action.
  • End the day with a romantic dinner at La Grenouille, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional French food with a contemporary twist.
Day 5

Museums, Parks, and Fine Dining

  • Start the day at the Louvre Museum, the world's largest art museum, and home to iconic works like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
  • Have brunch at Café de Flore, a legendary cafe that has been frequented by artists and writers for decades.
  • Take a stroll through the enchanting Tuileries Garden, with its sculpted trees, fountains, and beautiful flowers.
  • Check out the contemporary art at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, a striking building designed by Frank Gehry.
  • End the trip with a memorable dinner at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne, located inside the Eiffel Tower and offering panoramic city views.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Paris by plane is to fly into Charles de Gaulle Airport, which is serviced by most major airlines. There are also direct flights to Orly Airport, which is closer to the city center.

Car

Driving to Paris from London is possible via the Channel Tunnel, but be aware of toll charges along the way. The journey takes around 6 hours depending on traffic.

Train

There are multiple train stations in Paris, but the best way to reach Paris by train would be to take the Eurostar from London St. Pancras International Station to Gare du Nord in Paris.

Boat

While it is technically possible to sail from London to Paris via the River Seine, it is not a practical means of transportation. Instead, consider taking a river cruise from another European city, such as Amsterdam or Budapest, that includes a stop in Paris.

Bus

Taking a bus from London to Paris is a popular option, with the best bus service being Flixbus. The journey takes around 7 hours and the bus will drop you off at Bercy Seine Bus Station in Paris.

Destination

Paris

If you're looking for a place to fall in love, eat entirely too many pastries, and argue with locals about the best way to make a croissant, you've found it. Welcome to the land of wine, cheese, and unapologetic snobbery: Paris!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Parisian Café Culture and Iconic Landmarks

Experience the magic of Paris on a limited budget by staying in affordable yet cozy hotels or hostels in the heart of the city. Take the metro or walk to explore iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame. Enjoy the city's culture and charm by visiting museums, art galleries, flea markets, and local bistros that offer affordable yet delicious French cuisine.

The Ultimate 2-Day Parisian Romance Getaway

Paris, the City of Love is perfect for a romantic getaway. Fall in love with the stunning Eiffel Tower, the enchanting Champs-Élysées and with exquisite French food and wine. A stroll alongside the Seine river under the glittering lights is perfect to end a perfect day!

4 Days of Fun and Adventure in Paris

Traveling to Paris on a limited budget may seem daunting, but it is still possible to have an amazing time. Opt for cheaper accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb's, and take advantage of free sights such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Luxembourg Gardens. Enjoy the city’s food scene by exploring the local markets and street vendors for affordable yet delicious options.

Parisian Adventure: The Perfect 4-Day Itinerary

As a tourist in Paris, you can look forward to experiencing the city's stunning architecture, mouth-watering cuisine, and rich cultural history. From exploring major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, to strolling along the Seine River and sampling delicious French pastries, there's something for everyone in this enchanting city. With its iconic charm, Paris is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Europe.