Unforgettable Paris: How to Experience the Best of the City for Free

Paris has a reputation for being an expensive city, but it also offers a wealth of beautiful sights and experiences that don’t cost a thing. Here are some of our favorite free activities to help you explore the City of Lights without breaking the bank.

---

Fantastic View of the Eiffel tower with no crowds in your way

1. See the Eiffel Tower from Av. de Camoens

Seeing the Eiffel Tower is a must, but you don’t need to go up close or pay for the view. Av. de Camoens offers a fantastic photo spot, giving you a beautiful view of the tower framed by classic Parisian architecture. This spot was a hidden gem when we first discovered it in 2019, but its popularity has since grown. Still, it’s worth the visit for that iconic Paris photo!

2. Walk from the Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe (or vice versa)

This is one of our favorite Paris walks, showcasing many highlights along the way. Start at the Louvre, where you can explore the grounds and admire the glass pyramid (entry to the lobby is free if you’d like a closer look). From here, make your way through the Jardin des Tuileries, a lovely park with ponds, sculptures, and plenty of spots to relax. As you continue, you’ll reach Place de la Concorde, with its obelisk and Ferris wheel (a paid attraction, but great for a quick photo op).

For a slight detour, head to the Pont Alexandre III for a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower and the Invalides. After that, return to the Champs-Élysées, where you can take a leisurely stroll to the Arc de Triomphe. Be warned, the Champs-Élysées is packed with high-end shops and restaurants, so it’s easy to spend here if you’re not careful.

View from the bottom of the Sacré-Cœur by the Merry go 'Round

3. Sacré-Cœur and the Wall of Love

Sacré-Cœur sits atop Montmartre Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of Paris. It’s especially beautiful on a sunny day, and the basilica’s interior is free to explore. Be wary of street gambling scams in this area, though—they’ve been around for years and are best avoided.

Just a short walk away is the Wall of Love (Le Mur des Je t'aime), a charming mural featuring “I love you” in dozens of languages. It’s located in a cute neighborhood that’s less crowded than other tourist spots, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll.

4. Walk Along the Seine – Hôtel de Ville to Musée d'Orsay

For a quintessential Parisian experience, take a walk along the left bank of the Seine. Start at the Hôtel de Ville, cross the river to Notre-Dame (which is still beautiful from the outside, despite ongoing restorations), and continue past the famous Pont de l'Archevêché. This narrow bridge, often referred to as the “lock bridge,” was once covered in love locks, although most have been removed to preserve the bridge’s structure.

From here, follow the Seine toward the Musée d'Orsay. There are plenty of picturesque spots and cafés along the way if you want to stop for a coffee or pastry. This walk can take as long as you want, with endless charming views to enjoy.

Enjoying the Palais Royal stooped up on a high column

5. Palais Royal

Just a five-minute walk from the Louvre is the Palais Royal, an open courtyard surrounded by beautiful architecture and known for its black-and-white striped columns of varying heights. Kids will love running around here, and it’s a perfect spot to rest your feet after exploring the nearby attractions. You might even recognize it from scenes in Emily in Paris!

Watching the boats at Jardin du Luxembourg

6. Jardin du Luxembourg

After many visits to Paris, we finally made our way to Jardin du Luxembourg with our two kids—and it did not disappoint! This stunning park offers vast gardens, a beautiful palace, and a central basin, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic among the locals.

For families, the highlight is the mini sailboats available for rent. Watching our kids excitedly chase their boats across the basin and set them afloat again was delightful and affordable entertainment.

Whether you’re with kids or just looking for a peaceful escape, Jardin du Luxembourg is a must-visit in Paris!

---

These free spots offer a wonderful mix of iconic views, serene strolls, and hidden gems that make Paris so special. Enjoy the city without the expense, and experience a side of Paris that’s both classic and budget-friendly.