Paris, often seen as an expensive city, is full of incredible experiences that cost nothing at all. Some of the most magical moments in the City of Light don’t require a ticket or a reservation — all you need is curiosity and a good pair of walking shoes. From historic churches to hidden gardens, here are some of the best things to do in Paris for free.
1. Get Lost in Le Marais and Other Beautiful Neighborhoods
Walking is perhaps the greatest pleasure in Paris, and the best way to soak in the city’s beauty is to wander through its most charming quartiers. Start in Le Marais, with its medieval streets, grand hôtels particuliers (mansions), and vibrant atmosphere. Make sure not to miss out on the quiet side streets. Here you may stumble upon art galleries, cute local shops and backyards.
Some other areas worth exploring include:
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Once the haunt of artists, musicians and philosophers such as Ernest Hemingway and Jean-Paul Sartre, this elegant neighborhood is full of history, bookhops, galleries, antique shops, literary cafés, and beautiful squares.
- Canal Saint-Martin – A hipster haven where you can walk along the peaceful waterway and have a meal or glass at a charming wine bar or restaurant. Personally, my favourite thing to do here, is to sit outside in the morning and watch the locals bike to work, walk their dogs and have their morning coffee. Read more in my recent post describing the neighbourhood.
- Montorgueil – My old neighbourhood, A lively pedestrian district filled with traditional Parisian charm, where historic boulangeries, vibrant cafés, and fresh produce markets create an authentic Parisian atmosphere. The side streets are essential here as well, I’d also like to recommed Rue Montmartre and the little gourmet street Rue du Nil. Read more about Montorgueil.
- Île Saint-Louis – A peaceful island in the heart of Paris, perfect for a scenic stroll or an apéro in the afternoon. Its narrow streets are lined with 17th-century buildings and stunning views of the Seine. See my recommendations and get to know the island.
2. Explore the Paris Cathedrals
Paris’ churches are free to visit, and two of the most impressive are Église Saint-Eustache and Notre-Dame de Paris. Saint-Eustache, near Les Halles, is often overlooked and not well-known amongst foreigners. However, it is a breathtaking building with intricate stained-glass windows, and one of the best church acoustics in the city. I’d especially recommend this church because of its peaceful atmosphere. Here you can have a quiet moment to yourself in stunning, historic surroundings.
Notre-Dame reopened in December 2024, after having being closed after the 2019 fire. The exquisite restoration has made it an evolving symbol of Parisian resilience. Today, it is more beautiful than ever. My advice is to go there early in the morning, as it gets very crowded most days – all year around.
3. Find Peace and Elegance in Le Petit Palais
The Petit Palais, home to the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts, offers a world-class collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. While the interior is stunning, its hidden courtyard is a true gem. This elegant space, with its mosaic-covered colonnades and lush garden, is the perfect peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris. One of my top recommendations.
4. Discover the Musée des Archives Nationales in Le Marais
Tucked away in Le Marais, the Musée des Archives Nationales offers a fascinating glimpse into France’s history. Housed in the stunning Hôtel de Soubise, this museum showcases historical documents, including the original Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. The museum’s gardens are also a delight and open to the public. You can read more about it in my post about Le Marais.
5. Marvel at the Architecture and Temporary Exhibitions
Paris is an open-air museum. Beyond its famous landmarks, keep an eye out for magnificent buildings like the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève, the BNF Richelieu library, and the Palais-Royal, with its photogenic black-and-white columns. Many galleries and cultural centers, such as the Maison de la Photographie or Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson, offer free exhibitions at certain times.
6. Wander Through Paris’ Parks and Secret Gardens
Paris’ parks range from grand to intimate. The Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin des Plantes are amongst the most well-known. I’d also recommend you to enter smaller hidden gardens like the Jardin Anne-Frank or the Jardin des Rosiers in Le Marais if you are passing by. The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, with its dramatic cliffs and lake, feels like a secret world within the city. Get to know some of the best parks in Paris.
7. Visit a Brocante and Soak in the Atmosphere
Parisian brocantes (flea and antiques markets) are not just for shopping—they’re cultural experiences. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a delight to explore the furniture, art, crystal glasses, and vintage jewelry. You can find anything you didn’t know you desired. Try the markets at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen or some of my other recommendations. Especially during the weekends, there are also pop-up brocantes around the city.
8. Enjoy a Free Concert or Event
Paris often hosts free cultural events. In the summer, open-air cinema screenings at Parc de la Villette, music festivals like Fête de la Musique, and free concerts at churches like Saint-Eustache or La Madeleine offer incredible experiences without spending a euro.
Check out the homepage of the Paris Tourist Office for updated calendars and additional information.
9. Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle
No matter how many times you’ve seen it, watching the Eiffel Tower’s nightly light show never gets old. Every hour on the hour after sunset, for five minutes, the tower twinkles with thousands of lights—a magical, quintessentially Parisian experience.
10. Walk Along the Seine and Enjoy Paris at Night
A simple but unforgettable experience is strolling along the Seine, especially at sunset or nighttime. The illuminated bridges, historic buildings, and lively riverbanks create an enchanting atmosphere. In summer, you’ll find pop-up events and even outdoor dance gatherings along the water.
Paris proves that the best things in life really are free. With its history, beauty, and vibrant street life, the city offers endless adventures without ever reaching for your wallet.
