Parisian Café Culture and Iconic Landmarks

Experience Parisian charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Café Culture and City Icons

  • Start the day with a croissant and coffee at a classic Parisian café like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots
  • Walk along the Seine River and admire the iconic Eiffel Tower
  • Head to the Tuileries Garden and enjoy a picnic lunch with a view of the Louvre Museum
  • Visit the free Maison de Victor Hugo, former home of the famous author, and learn about his life and works
  • End the day with a stroll through the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre and enjoy a budget-friendly meal at one of the many street-side cafes
  • Don't forget to take a nighttime stroll by the illuminated Notre Dame cathedral
  • By the end of the day, you'll have a great sense of why Paris is known for its café culture, world-famous landmarks, and artistic heritage. You won't have spent much money, but you will have created unforgettable memories in the City of Light.

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.

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