Content
Paris is without doubt the capital of culture. The capital offers a wide range of cultural activities and a multitude of free good deals to make the most of your stay in Paris without spending a thing. Discover in our guide all the best activities and addresses from 0€.
Free monuments in Paris
Parisian monuments offer three different free admission formulas: free admission for young people (all under 18 and all EU citizens under 26), free admission on the first Sunday of the month, and free admission for everyone, every day, for Notre-Dame de Paris and the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur.
Free museums in Paris
Many Paris museums offer their permanent collections free of charge to the general public, all year round. Temporary exhibitions, on the other hand, are not free.
Cultural centers and institutes in Paris
With 58 cultural centers, Paris is home to the largest number of foreign cultural institutes in the world. The mission of these cultural institutes is to foster the development of cultural relations between their country/region and France, by offering a wide range of free events open to all, such as exhibitions, concerts, shows, theater, cinema, meetings, conferences…
Art galleries in Paris
With its countless contemporary art galleries, Paris offers a wide range of free cultural activities. These galleries host exhibitions throughout the year, allowing visitors to discover the contemporary art scene. Admission is free, and the program is constantly evolving. It’s a great way to discover new talent, and maybe even start your own collection.
Parisian auction houses
Parisian auction houses organize public auctions throughout the year. They are free and open to all, with no obligation to bid. It’s a fun and unique way to explore the Paris art market.
Gardens in Paris
With almost 500 parks, Paris abounds in neighborhood gardens and squares, lush green settings that invite you to relax. With the exception of the Jardin d’Acclimatation, the Jardin Albert Khan and the Parc Floral, for which admission is still charged, all the capital’s parks and gardens are free.
Churches in Paris
Paris is home to a large number of religious buildings. Whether you’re a believer or not, the capital’s churches are full of surprises. Architectural feats and little-known masterpieces by great painters are freely accessible to the public.
Parisian cemeteries
Cemeteries are an integral part of Paris’ cultural heritage. Away from the hustle and bustle of the capital, Parisian cemeteries are free and open to all, offering beautiful walks between the graves of unknowns and celebrities alike: Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde at Père Lachaise, Serge Gainsbourg at the Montparnasse cemetery or Dalida at Montmartre.
Getting around Paris
Paris has an extensive and efficient public transport network, making it easy for tourists to get around the city. Here are the different ways of getting around Paris by public transport:
- Metro: The Paris metro is one of the city’s most popular and fastest means of transport. Metro stations are spread throughout the city and are easily accessible (see map).
- Bus: Paris city buses are another practical and economical means of transport for tourists. They offer a breathtaking view of the city while taking you to your destination. There are also tourist buses that take you to the city’s main sights.
- Tramway: The tramway is another means of transport in Paris. It has several lines covering the city’s main tourist districts.
- RER: The Réseau Express Régional (RER) is a suburban train that serves not only Paris, but also the surrounding region. It’s faster than the metro for getting to the suburbs.
- Bikes: Paris has a self-service bike rental system called Vélib’. Bikes can be rented for short periods and returned to any station in the city.
- Cabs: Taxis are a convenient way to get around Paris, but they can be expensive. It’s best to book a cab in advance or hail one on the street.
- Discover also
- How to make a successful trip to Drôme?