The Ultimate Guide to Paris on a Budget 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Paris on a Budget: Romance, Art & City Lights 2025

Unlock the magic of the City of Light without breaking the bank. This guide reveals how to experience the iconic sights, charming streets, and culinary delights of Paris affordably.

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Where to Stay: A Guide to Paris's Arrondissements

Choosing your *arrondissement* is the key to your Paris experience. Do you want the historic maze of Le Marais, the intellectual buzz of the Latin Quarter, the village-like artistry of Montmartre, or the chic elegance of Saint-Germain? Your home base defines your adventure in the City of Light.

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Paris Basics: Your Questions Answered

Your essential questions about Paris, answered by our local experts. Get the real scoop on navigating the Métro, buying the best croissant, and making the most of your trip to the world's most romantic city.

How do I get from the airport (CDG or Orly) to the city center?

From Charles de Gaulle (CDG), the easiest and most reliable way is the RER B train. It takes about 30-40 minutes to central stations like Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, and Saint-Michel. From Orly (ORY), take the Orlyval light rail to the Antony station, then connect to the RER B train into the city. Taxis are available but are much more expensive.

Is the Paris Museum Pass worth it?

The Paris Museum Pass can be fantastic value if you're a keen museum-goer. It offers skip-the-line access (though you may still need to book a time slot) to over 50 museums and monuments, including the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, Centre Pompidou, and the Palace of Versailles. If you plan to visit three or more major museums, the pass will almost certainly save you money and time.

What's the best way to use the Paris Métro?

The Métro is brilliant. For a short trip, you can buy single tickets or a "carnet" of 10 tickets at a reduced price. If you're staying for a few days and plan to use it a lot, consider a Navigo Découverte pass (requires a small photo), which gives you a week of unlimited travel (Monday to Sunday) for a flat fee. It's often the best value for tourists.

What is an "arrondissement"?

Paris is divided into 20 administrative districts called arrondissements. They spiral out clockwise from the center of the city like a snail shell. The 1st arrondissement is in the very center (where the Louvre is), and the numbers get higher as you move outwards. The last two digits of a Parisian postcode indicate the arrondissement (e.g., 75004 is in the 4th).

Where can I find the best croissant?

This is a lifelong quest for Parisians! The key is to go to a real artisan boulangerie (bakery), not a chain. Look for a sign that says "Artisan Boulanger." A great croissant should be flaky on the outside, soft and airy inside, and have a rich, buttery taste. Don't be afraid to try a small, local bakery near your hotel—they are often the best!

What are some free things to do in Paris?

Paris can be surprisingly affordable. You can:

  • Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour every evening.
  • Stroll through beautiful parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Jardin des Tuileries.
  • Walk along the banks of the Seine.
  • Visit the permanent collections of the Petit Palais and the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.
  • Explore the charming streets of Montmartre (visiting the Sacré-Cœur basilica is free).
Is Paris a walkable city?

Yes, Paris is incredibly walkable, and it's the best way to discover its charm. Each neighborhood is a joy to explore on foot. However, the city is large, so to get between distant arrondissements like Montmartre and the Latin Quarter, you'll want to use the highly efficient Métro system to save time and energy.

Where is the best place for a picnic?

A Parisian picnic is a must! The most iconic spot is the Champ de Mars, the large park in front of the Eiffel Tower. Other fantastic options include the elegant Place des Vosges in the Marais, the banks of the Seine (especially on the Île de la Cité), or the sprawling lawns of the Jardin du Luxembourg.

What is the tipping etiquette in restaurants?

It's simple: you don't have to tip. By law, all French restaurant bills include a service charge ("service compris"). If you had exceptional service, it's common to leave a few extra euros in cash (a "pourboire"), but it's not expected or required. You will never be considered rude for not tipping.

What is the difference between a "bistro," "brasserie," and "café"?

A café is the most casual, serving drinks, coffee, and simple snacks like croissants or croque-monsieurs all day. A bistro is typically a small, often family-run restaurant serving traditional, hearty French food at reasonable prices. A brasserie is larger and more bustling, often with a grander decor, and typically serves a full menu of classic dishes all day long, not just at set lunch and dinner times.