Paris is everybody’s idea of the perfect romantic or cultural getaway but is also notoriously expensive! Here are some money saving tips that will help you to make the most of your trip to the French capital without it being an expensive affair.
Techniques for finding cheap accommodation vary from city to city and Paris is rather unique in this sense. Terms like Bed and Breakfast and guesthouse are usually synonymous with lower rates in England for example, but not necessarily in Paris. A lot of Bed and Breakfasts actually charge for the breakfast spread, so don’t be fooled into thinking you are going to get a free meal included in the price of the room! A good, safe option is to look for a cheap hotel in Paris which, while not luxurious, is clean and comfortable. Focus on location rather than frills and expect little more than a place to stay and you’ll do just fine! Private apartments in Paris are a good alternative if you are travelling with a group or just craving a bit of privacy and the freedom to come and go as you please.
Even bearing these things in mind, Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, so there are other factors to consider when trying to reduce costs stick to your budget, like when you travel (November to March is cheapest).
As far as getting around is concerned, use the night bus to make your way back to the hotel instead of a taxi and buy a 10 trip metro ticket to save money or a Paris Visite card which allows unlimited use of all public transport and can be bought in any metro station.
For a chic and cheap night out visit the Opera Garnier and see a ballet or opera standing up or simply stroll along the Seine and admire the Notre Dame Cathedral illuminated under the starry skies. And during the day, it’s good to know that the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay and most other museums are free on the first Sunday of the month.
You don’t have to feel miserable about not being able to dine at one of the city’s fine restaurants either; what is on offer at the local bakery or street market is enough to make a gourmet chef’s mouth water and will cost you next to nothing. Paris’ answer to poor backpackers looking for cheap eats: Let them eat cake!
