Paris, the City of Lights, is renowned for its stunning architecture, foodie havens, and unique culture.
Paris can also be pretty pricey, depending on where you go and what you buy!
While it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of its famous landmarks and luxurious experiences, there are plenty of free things to do in Paris that allow you to soak in the city’s charm without breaking the bank.
We recently shared some free things to do in Paris over on Instagram, and decided to post a full roundup of free things to do in Paris here on our blog!
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking to visit Paris, here are some of the best free activities in Paris to add to your itinerary in 2024 – including the many cities that offer free walking tours, as recommended by our expert Paris tour guides!
20+ Free Things To Do In Paris: 2024
1. Watch the Sunset from the Seine river
Experience the magic of Paris as the sun sets over the Seine River. The perfect spots? Head to Pont des Arts or Lover’s Point at the tip of Ile de la Cité for breathtaking views.
2. Relax at Canal Saint-Martin
Take a leisurely stroll along Canal Saint-Martin, where you can unwind by the water and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. It’s an ideal place for people-watching or simply soaking in the scenery.
3. View Art at Musée Carnavalet or Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
Explore the Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, or the Musée d’art Moderne de la ville de Paris, which showcases the city’s collection of Modern Avant-gardes.
These museums are significant in showcasing various art movements and periods, enriching your understanding of art history.
The Musée d’Art Moderne also highlights the importance of modern art with its significant exhibitions. Admission is free for both, making these great stops for art lovers and history buffs alike.
Boutique Tours Tip: The Musée d’Art Moderne has an amazing view of the Eiffel Tower!
For a different art experience, explore the vibrant street art scenes in neighborhoods like the 13th arrondissement and along La Petite Ceinture.
4. Visit the Sacré-Cœur
Climb to the top of Montmartre to visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The basilica is renowned for its beautiful stained glass windows, which add to its artistic and cultural value.
The views of the city are worth the hike, and the basilica itself is a beautiful site to behold.
While you’re exploring Paris’s historical monuments, don’t miss the Arc de Triomphe, a site rich in history and offering panoramic views of the city from its summit.
Our Paris Evening Bike and Boat Tour features a fabulous sunset view of the Arc de Triomphe.
5. Go Up the Centre Pompidou
For a unique perspective of Paris, head to the Centre Pompidou.
The panoramic views are incredible, but make sure to visit before it closes for renovations in 2025!
6. Explore Jardin des Plantes
Stroll through Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
The Botanical Gardens are a fantastic place to relax and enjoy nature.
7. Do an Uber Cruise
Take advantage of the River Seine’s views with a casual Uber cruise, which as of summer 2024, is completely free (prosecco included)!
While some costs may apply, enjoying the river’s banks is a unique way to experience the city. Snatch up those spots quickly, they book out fast!
Additionally, keep an eye out for free events like open-air cinema screenings at Parc de la Villette, which offer a unique and affordable way to enjoy the city.
8. Play Pétanque at Place Dauphine
Join the locals at Place Dauphine for a game of pétanque, a popular French pastime.
It’s a fun way to engage with Parisians and immerse yourself in the culture, where half the fun is discovering hidden dining spots and local eateries.
9. Galeries Lafayette Rooftop View
Visit the famous department store Galeries Lafayette for an incredible free rooftop view of Paris.
It’s an iconic shopping destination that also rewards you with stunning panoramas.
10. Jardin du Luxembourg
Wander through the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg.
This public park is a lovely spot to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
11. Jardin des Tuileries
Adjacent to the Louvre, the Jardin des Tuileries is another beautiful park perfect for a leisurely stroll or sitting back to enjoy the scenery.
12. Free Museums on the First Sunday of the Month
Many free museums in Paris offer admission on the first Sunday of the month, allowing you to explore world-class art and history without the usual price tag.
13. Visit Shakespeare & Co
Stop by the legendary Shakespeare & Co bookstore and coffee shop.
It’s a treasure trove of literature and a great place to soak up the literary history of Paris.
14. See Jim Morrison’s Grave
Pay your respects at Jim Morrison’s grave in Père Lachaise Cemetery, or visit the resting place of Simone de Beauvoir in Cimetiere Montparnasse for a touch of literary history.
While in the area, take a moment to appreciate the exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that remains a symbol of Paris despite ongoing restorations following a fire. Although the interior is currently inaccessible, you can still enjoy stunning rooftop views and explore nearby alternatives like the Sainte-Chapelle or the Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois Church to appreciate the Gothic architecture and charm of the area.
15. Walk Around Le Marais
Explore the charming streets of Le Marais, stopping at Place des Vosges, the gardens of Hôtel de Sens, and the gardens of Hôtel Sully to soak in the neighborhood’s unique atmosphere.
Another must-visit area is the Latin Quarter, known for its charming streets, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere.
16. Visit Arenes de Lutece
Discover the Arenes de Lutece, a 2,000-year-old Roman arena turned park next to the Pantheon, which also held significance during the Middle Ages.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history.
The River Seine, which flows nearby, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its historical and cultural importance.
17. Go to La Bellevilloise
Enjoy Café-Concert evenings at La Bellevilloise, where you can savor music with your meal at no extra cost—making for a delightful night out.
18. Visit Deyrolle
Check out Deyrolle, a unique taxidermy and entomology shop and museum. It’s an unusual but fascinating experience that’s certainly memorable.
19. Visit Le Pavillon de l’Arsenal
Learn about Parisian urban design at Le Pavillon de l’Arsenal, which offers free admission and insights into the city’s architectural evolution.
Best Free Things to Do in Paris: Most Popular Free Attractions
Free Museums on Sundays
Did you know that many museums in Paris open their doors for free every Sunday morning?
If you plan ahead, you can check out some of the best museums in the city without spending a dime.
Just keep in mind that a lot of them are closed on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Stroll Around the Parks and Gardens
Paris boasts plenty of beautiful green spaces where you can chill out and take a breather.
Two highlights are the Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg.
As mentioned above, Tuileries Garden sits right between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, featuring stunning landscapes and lovely water features – perfect for a relaxing escape. Jardin du Luxembourg is equally gorgeous, covering 24 acres, just a short walk from the Central Quarter.
View the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero Square
If you’re looking for the best photo ops of the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Square is the place to be!
Just cross the Seine to the fountain, and you’ll have the perfect view.
Climb the stairs for an even better vantage point.
Take Free Walking Tours
One of the coolest things about many European cities, including Paris, is that they offer free walking tours.
They’re a great way to get to know the area, especially if it’s your first visit.
The guides are super knowledgeable and will share all the must-know facts about Paris.
Just remember to tip at the end and book your tour ahead of time.
Picnic at Parc Champ de Mars
Parisian parks are huge and beautiful, and Parc Champ de Mars is a classic spot for a picnic.
Grab your picnic blanket, some cheese, bread, and wine, and enjoy the view of the Eiffel Tower while you relax.
Explore Paris Cemeteries – Père Lachaise Cemetery
You can visit some iconic French cemeteries for free, including the famous Cimetière du Père LaChaise, where legends like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf rest.
It’s one of France’s oldest and most prestigious cemeteries, and even if cemeteries aren’t your thing, the gravestones are a tribute to those who are no longer with us.
Brush Up on Your Art History at the Petit Palais
The Petit Palais is a must-visit for art and history lovers, and the best part? Admission is completely free!
The stained glass windows of the Petit Palais add to its charm, showcasing intricate designs that captivate visitors.
The beautiful gardens and stunning architecture were built for the 1900 World Expo and are packed with intricate details.
The collection spans from classical to impressionistic art, featuring works by Claude Monet and Camille Pissarro.
Sacré-Cœur
Located in 75018 Paris, Sacré-Cœur is one of the city’s most iconic monuments.
It’s free to visit and absolutely stunning from the outside.
Standing atop Buttes Montmartre, it offers breathtaking views over Paris and is known for its striking white façade.
Best Free Things to Do in Paris: Frequently Asked Questions
What do Parisians do in their free time?
Cooking, baking, and traveling are popular pastimes for Parisians.
Are museums free in Paris for tourists?
If you’re looking to explore free museums, you’re in luck! Nearly 20 museums are free year-round.
Are parks in Paris free?
Absolutely! Most parks in Paris are free to enter, allowing both locals and tourists to enjoy the city’s beautiful public spaces without any charge. Just a heads-up: a few events or special areas might have an entrance fee, but generally, access is free.
What’s the cheapest way to get around Paris?
Public transport tickets in Paris for the subway, RER trains, and trams use a single ticket system, with basic tickets costing around two euros or so.
Can you just walk around Paris?
You can definitely visit the main tourist spots in Paris within an hour. Not only are the sights impressive, but there’s also a fantastic walking guide to make the most of your stroll. This walk is about 5km if you stick to the pedestrian-friendly areas.
Best Free Things To Do In Paris: No Euros Needed
From stunning parks to historical sites, these free things to do in Paris ensure that you can experience the city’s magic without spending a dime.
Embrace the culture and beauty of Paris through these engaging and enriching free activities in Paris. Enjoy your adventures – and we’ll see you on our Paris bike tour!