Free things to do in Paris
Paris doesn’t have to be expensive to be unforgettable. From bustling neighborhoods and charming streets to serene parks, historic cemeteries, incredible museums, and amazing architecture, the City of Light is packed with free things to do. Whether you’re exploring Paris on a budget or just looking for some no-cost gems to complement your big-ticket sightseeing, these experiences let you soak in the city’s history, culture, and charm, without spending a euro.
📖 Table of Contents
- 🌊 Stroll Along the Seine River
- 🎨 Explore the Artistic Streets of Montmartre
- ⚰️ Walk Through History at Père Lachaise Cemetery
- 🏘️ Discover the Historic Marais District
- 🎭 Admire Street Art in Belleville
- 🛍️ Treasure Hunt at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
- 🌿 Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
- 🖼️ Explore the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
- 🚤 Stroll Along Canal Saint-Martin
- 📚 Wander around the Vibrant Latin Quarter
- 🖌️ Explore the Street Art of the 13th Arrondissement
- 🌳 Picnic in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- ⛪ Admire the Architecture of Sainte-Chapelle
- 🏛️ Enjoy the Courtyard of Palais-Royal
- 🎶 Free Concerts at Saint-Eustache Church
- 🐦 Birdwatching at Parc de la Villette
- 🏞️ Discover the Hidden Shop Passages of Paris
- 🎨 Explore Parc Floral and Temporary Exhibitions
- 💡 Attend Free Exhibitions at the City of Paris Museums
- 🏙️ Walk the Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte René-Dumont)
🌊 Stroll Along the Seine River
Take a relaxing walk along the Seine River Paris, with scenic bridges, UNESCO-listed banks, and stunning views of Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower. This simple stroll is one of the best free things to do in Paris.
Tips: Start at Île de la Cité, go early morning or evening to avoid crowds, and enjoy the historic bridges. Optional: hop on a paid river cruise for a different perspective.
🎨 Explore the Artistic Streets of Montmartre
Wander the cobbled streets of Montmartre, Paris’ bohemian heart. Pass quaint cafés, lively Place du Tertre, and climb to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic city views.
Tips: Go early to escape crowds, or follow a self-guided Montmartre walking tour.
⚰️ Walk Through History at Père Lachaise Cemetery
The Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris is a serene escape, with ornate mausoleums and graves of legends like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison.
Tips: Bring a map or join a guided tour to find famous graves. Open daily for strolling.
Address: 75020 Paris
🏘️ Discover the Historic Marais District
The Marais blends medieval charm with contemporary flair. Wander narrow streets, explore Place des Vosges, and peek into artisan shops.
Tips: Arrive early, explore tucked-away courtyards, and enjoy cafés or window-shopping.
🎭 Admire Street Art in Belleville
Head to the Belleville district, a vibrant neighborhood where walls become canvases. From colorful graffiti to massive murals, Belleville is a living art gallery.
Tips: Wander freely, snap photos, and talk to local artists.
🛍️ Treasure Hunt at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
The Saint-Ouen Flea Market is a labyrinth of antiques, vintage clothes, and quirky finds. Even if you don’t buy, it’s a fun adventure.
Tips: Visit on weekends, arrive early, and wear comfy shoes.
Address: 110 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine
🌿 Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens in Paris offer manicured lawns, endless tree tunnels, architectural gardens, fountains, and of course the romantic Medici Fountain where little and big children play with their ‘stick controlled’ miniature sail boats.
Tips: Bring a book, enjoy a picnic, and people-watch. Beautiful year-round.
Address: 75006 Paris
🖼️ Explore the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
Art lovers will definitely enjoy the Musée d’Art Moderne and its free permanent art collection, featuring Picasso, Modigliani, Delaunay, and contemporary works.
Tips: Visit weekday mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the collection at a relaxed pace.
Address: 11 Avenue du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris
🚤 Stroll along Canal Saint-Martin
Canal Saint-Martin is a charming, lesser-known spot. Enjoy a scenic walk, see some amazing street art, and watch boats pass through the old locks.
Tips: Start at Place de la République and head toward Parc de la Villette. Bring coffee or a picnic for a perfect free day.
📚 Wander around the Vibrant Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is packed with history, cafes, bookshops, and street performers. Visit landmarks like the Pantheon and walk around this amazing piece of architecture, or visit the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore while you’re on the left bank.
Tips: Explore on foot, enjoy the lively streets, and join a free walking tour for historical insights.
🖌️ Explore the Street Art of the 13th Arrondissement
The 13th arrondissement is a living gallery of massive murals painted on building walls by some of the world’s most talented street artists. From bold abstract designs to whimsical characters, the streets themselves become an outdoor art museum.
Tips: Wander freely and keep your camera ready. Some of the murals change seasonally, so every visit can be unique.
🌳 Picnic in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is one of Paris’ most charming parks, complete with cliffs, waterfalls, and a temple atop a hill offering sweeping city views. It’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon without spending a euro.
Tips: Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy people-watching or reading by the lake.
⛪ Admire the Architecture of Sainte-Chapelle
While visiting Sainte-Chapelle may have an entry fee to see the stained glass, you can still admire the exterior for free. Its Gothic spires and intricate façade are a treat for photographers and architecture lovers.
Tips: Walk around the Île de la Cité and enjoy views of the chapel framed by the Seine River.
🏛️ Enjoy the Courtyard of Palais-Royal
The Palais-Royal courtyard is a peaceful, historic spot tucked behind the busy streets near the Louvre. Its elegant colonnades, manicured gardens, and famous striped Colonnes de Buren make it a perfect free stop for photos or a quiet stroll.
Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and watch locals enjoying their lunch breaks.
🎶 Free Concerts at Saint-Eustache Church
Saint-Eustache Church near Les Halles often hosts free classical and organ concerts. The Gothic interior alone is breathtaking, but catching live music makes the visit even more magical.
Tips: Check the schedule in advance and arrive early for the best spots.
🐦 Birdwatching at Parc de la Villette
Parc de la Villette is a modern park with sculptures, canals, and green spaces. It’s perfect for a quiet walk or a spot of urban birdwatching.
Tips: Explore early in the morning for a peaceful experience and watch locals jogging, walking dogs, or enjoying outdoor activities.
🏞️ Discover the Hidden Shop Passages of Paris
Paris has many covered passages (like Galerie Vivienne and Passage Jouffroy) filled with shops, cafes, and historic architecture. Walking through them is free and feels like stepping back in time.
Tips: Look up to admire the glass ceilings and period details; it’s a favorite for photography enthusiasts.
🎨 Explore Parc Floral and Temporary Exhibitions
While some events at Parc Floral have an entry fee, the park itself is free to wander, with seasonal flower displays, sculptures, and outdoor art installations.
Tips: Bring a camera and a picnic to enjoy a serene afternoon surrounded by nature.
💡 Attend Free Exhibitions at the City of Paris Museums
Some museums, like Maison de la Photographie or Petit Palais, offer permanent collections free of charge. This is perfect for art lovers who want to explore Paris without spending on entry fees.
Tips: Check museum websites for free days or permanent exhibitions to plan your visit.
🏙️ Walk the Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte René-Dumont)
This elevated parkway was the original inspiration for NYC’s High Line. Walking along the Promenade Plantée, you can enjoy flowers, greenery, and unique views of Parisian streets below.
Tips: Start near Bastille and follow the path eastwards for a peaceful escape above the city streets.
Paris proves that you don’t need a big budget to make unforgettable memories. From Seine River Paris strolls to vibrant street art, historic cemeteries, and lush gardens, there’s a wealth of free things to do in Paris for every traveler.
