Things To Do In Paris For Free: Top Free Attractions And Activities

Paris is known for its high cost of living, but you can still enjoy the allure of this French capital without breaking the bank. As one of the world’s most expensive cities, it might seem like you need a hefty budget to truly experience Paris. However, that’s not the case. The city offers a range of free attractions and activities that capture its rich history and culture. If you’re attending the Paris Olympics 2024, check out our list of must-visit free spots to make the most of your trip.

Things To Do In Paris For Free

Visit Petit Palais For Free

The Petit Palais in Paris is a must-visit for art and history lovers, thanks to its impressive permanent collections that span several centuries and are completely free to access. Constructed for the 1900 World Expo, this museum dazzles with its grand architecture, featuring a semicircular garden, a tastefully decorated arcade, and ornate details like wrought-iron gates, majestic staircases, and stained-glass windows.

According to Tripadvisor, while the Petit Palais can get quite busy, visiting right when it opens can help you enjoy its expansive spaces with fewer crowds. Families with young children can benefit from a special entrance located at the bottom of the stairs to the right, bypassing the main queue.

Take A Seine River Cruise For Free

Though a Seine River cruise might get you a few looks from locals or seasoned visitors, it remains a unique and delightful way to experience Paris, regardless of how many times you've seen the city. Options range from simple guided tours to floating dinner cruises and lively parties, typically requiring a fee. However, if you're celebrating your birthday, the Vedettes de Paris company offers a complimentary one-hour guided cruise on the Seine. Simply bring your passport as proof of your birthday and visit their office at the port near the Eiffel Tower.

Bookings aren’t available, so you’ll need to show up in person on the day (before 6:30 pm). You’re welcome to bring up to two guests, but only the birthday person receives the free ticket, according to Tripadvisor.

Visit Stroll Le Marais For Free

Le Marais is a stylish district renowned for its charming streets, historic buildings, trendy shops, and art galleries. With its elegant 17th and 18th-century architecture, it's a perfect place for a stroll. One of the top free activities in Paris is exploring this area. Don’t miss visiting the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, and the Musée des Archives Nationales, known as the most splendid private mansion in Le Marais. Both attractions are free to enjoy.

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Visit A Library For Free In Paris

Stepping into the Oval Room at the Richelieu site of the Bibliotheque Nationale de France (BNF), completed in 1932, feels like a journey back in time. The room is lined with shelves reaching up to the oval glass ceiling, filled with over 20,000 books, including centuries-old volumes, and 9,000 comic books, all accessible to visitors.

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It's a haven for book lovers, showcasing everything from ancient manuscripts to contemporary classics. The Oval Room is open to the public free of charge (except on Sundays) and is located in the charming Jardins du Palais Royal area, which is also worth exploring for its lovely gardens and quaint shops nestled in the arches.