Paris is famous for being an expensive city. Louvre 17 euros, Orsay 16 euros, Eiffel Tower observation deck 26 euros…
However, most national museums are free on the first Sunday of every month, and there are many attractions that can be enjoyed for free.
Complete 7 key attractions in Paris without admission fees
The white Byzantine-style cathedral on top of Montmartre Hill. Completed in 1914, it is the best viewing point with a 360-degree panorama of Paris city. Entrance to the cathedral is free (only the dome observatory requires a fee). If you go early in the morning, you can enjoy a leisurely view of Paris without tourists.
A cafe famous for being the filming location of the movie “Amélie.” Experience a Parisian breakfast with croissants and cafe au lait at the cafe in the movie. Retro interior and full of Amelie posters. Lots of tourists but nice atmosphere.
The glass pyramid is the symbol of the world's largest museum. Designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei in 1989. The entrance fee to the museum is 17 euros, but the outside pyramid and Place Napoleon are free. “Picking up the pyramid” is the highlight of a lifetime shot with a pyramid in the background.
A French-style formal garden connecting the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. Established in the 17th century, it was loved as a resting place for Parisians. Sit on a chair by the pond and have a leisurely picnic like a Parisian. An outdoor art museum with sculptures displayed throughout.
Cost-effective French restaurant near the Louvre. A set lunch (Plat du jour) costs around 15 euros, which is reasonable compared to prices in Paris. Consists of soup + main + drink. A generous portion with a French home-cooked feel.
The banks of the Seine River are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a walk along the river in front of the Orsay Museum to Ile de la Cité. A romantic landscape with Seine River bridges and 19th century buildings. The green book stall (Bukiniste) on the riverside is a used bookstore with a 500-year history.
Construction began in 1163 and is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The spire collapsed due to a fire in 2019, but restoration is scheduled to be completed in 2024. The exterior and Plaza de la Cité are open for viewing. The essence of Gothic architecture, including rose windows and flying buttresses. A location surrounded by the Seine River in the middle of Ile de la Cité.
“The most beautiful street in the world”. A 2km straight street from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Luxury shops and cafes such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are lined up. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe is free to visit, but the observatory costs 13 euros.
The best photo spot with a front view of the Eiffel Tower. The entire Eiffel Tower is framed from the terrace of the Palazzo Chaillot. If you visit at sunset time, it is golden timing for sunset + Eiffel Tower + night view. Every hour on the hour, the Eiffel Tower sparkles with a light show (5 minutes).
If you visit on the first Sunday of every month, the Louvre and Orcedo are free! However, be prepared for crowds. For downtown Paris, we recommend the Metro 1-day pass (Navigo Easy) and the Eurail Global Pass when traveling to various European cities.