Paris’ iconic landmarks, picturesque streets, and romantic atmosphere make it a dream destination for many travelers. However, with its reputation as an expensive city, visiting Paris on a budget may seem like an impossible feat. But fear not! With some planning and insider tips, it is possible to enjoy Paris without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can spend 3 days in Paris on a budget.
How to Spend 3 Days in Paris on a Budget
Paris Museum Pass
If you plan to spend 3 days in Paris on a budget, then the Paris Museum Pass is a great way to save money and time. With free entry to over 50 museums and monuments in Paris and the surrounding area, there are plenty of attractions included to fill your days with sightseeing for one low price.
You can either get a 48-hour pass or a 96-hour pass. For my 3 days in Paris on a budget itinerary, I suggest that you buy the 96-hour pass even though you will not use it on the final day. It costs 70 euros.
It’s important to mention that children do not require a pass at most sights, but you may need to make advanced reservations for certain attractions.
While the pass grants access to the most popular sights in Paris, it does not include admission to the Eiffel Tower. If you have your heart set on going to the top, you will need to purchase separate tickets.
Attractions in this itinerary that can be visited using the Paris Museum Pass:
- Sainte-Chapelle
- Panthéon
- Cluny Museum
- Musée d’Orsay
- Rodin Museum
- Army Museum & Napolean’s Tomb
- Musée de l’Orangerie
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
3 Days in Paris on a Budget: Day 1
There’s nothing quite like spending the first day of a trip to Paris exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Start off your adventure on the picturesque Île de la Cité, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Seine River and admire the stunning Gothic architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral.
Next, head to the stunning Sainte-Chapelle. This architectural marvel features a breathtaking Gothic design and is famous for its exquisite 1,113 stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes. A visit to Sainte-Chapelle is a truly immersive experience. It was one of my favorite places in Paris.
Pause for a moment of contemplation at the solemn Deportation Memorial, a poignant homage to the 200,000 individuals forcibly deported from Vichy France to Nazi concentration camps during the Second World War.
Afterward, make your way to the legendary Shakespeare and Company bookstore to browse the shelves. If you’re interested in medieval art and history, you have to visit the Cluny Museum which is famous for its unicorn tapestries.
Make sure to visit the Panthéon. You’ll get to see the final resting place of notable figures like Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. Plus, don’t miss the extraordinary panoramic views of Paris, available from April through October.
End your day with a walk through the serene Luxembourg Gardens.
3 Days in Paris on a Budget: Day 2
As you continue your three-day Parisian adventure, day two is filled with more must-see attractions.
Start your day at the Musée d’Orsay. It’s home to an impressive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
If you have worked up an appetite, take a stroll down Rue Cler. It is a charming market street where you can’t resist picking up some local goodies for a picnic.
Next up, make sure to visit the Army Museum and Napoleon’s Tomb. You’ll have the chance to delve into fascinating French military history and pay your respects to the legendary emperor.
If you are still up for more museums, get ready to be amazed by the Rodin Museum. But, it’s not just about the stunning gardens. You’ll also find an incredible collection of works from the famous sculptor including The Thinker.
End your day on a high note with a visit to admire the sparkling Eiffel Tower at night. You can also get great views from Trocadéro, where you can take in stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from across the Seine River.
3 Days in Paris on a Budget: Day 3
On day three of your Parisian adventure, let’s explore some more of the most iconic landmarks and museums this city has to offer.
Start the day at the world-renowned Louvre Museum, where art enthusiasts and novices alike can marvel at a vast collection of priceless works that span centuries. Admire the glass pyramid outside as well as the infamous Mona Lisa inside.
Before you wrap up your time in the Louvre area, don’t miss out on a visit to the Palais-Royal. Trust me, you’ll be delighted by the quirky and Instagram-worthy black and white striped columns that fill the courtyard. Known as “Les Deux Plateaux” or “Colonnes de Buren”, this art installation adds a delightful and interesting contrast to the traditional architecture of Paris.
Next, head to the Musée de l’Orangerie, where you can immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of Monet’s water lilies paintings. It’s a small museum that you can explore in about an hour.
Your itinerary for the day doesn’t stop there! Make your way to Place de la Concorde, where the 3000-year-old Luxor Egyptian obelisk stands.
And finally, don’t forget to treat yourself to some retail therapy or enjoy a leisurely window shopping experience on the iconic Champs-Élysées.
At the end of the Champs-Élysées, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the magnificent Arc de Triomphe. From below, take a moment to admire the intricate carvings depicting victorious battles and the names of those who bravely fought for France.
If you’re feeling adventurous, I highly recommend climbing the 280 stairs to the top. It may be a bit steep, but trust me, the panoramic views of Paris from up there are worth it!
Is 3 Days in Paris Enough?
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, 3 days in Paris can be a great introduction to the city. While you’ll need to be selective of the sights you can see, don’t worry! With some proper planning and prioritization, you can have an excellent trip to Paris.
With the suggested itinerary above, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic and culturally significant attractions in Paris. However, if you have more time to spare or wish to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, there are plenty of other sights and activities that can be added to this itinerary.
During our amazing visit, we had the pleasure of staying for a whole week in Paris! This gave us plenty of time to explore the incredible sights in the city, and even take some amazing day trips to Versailles and Disneyland Paris.
How to Get Around Paris on a Budget
Navigating Paris is easy, thanks to its efficient and well-connected public transportation network. The Paris Metro is the ideal choice for quick and affordable city travel, including 14 lines and over 300 stations that reach almost every corner of the city.
The bus network is another excellent budget-friendly option. You can enjoy the city’s beautiful scenery during your commute. Bus routes 69 and 28 provide a mini-city tour, passing by numerous tourist attractions.
You can use t+ tickets for public transportation in Paris, including the metro, buses, RER, and the Montmartre funicular. To save money, buy t+ tickets in packs of 10.
If you’re planning to use public transport extensively, consider getting a Paris Visite travel pass. You can purchase a 3-day pass that is good for all of the areas covered in this itinerary for around 30 euros.
Walking around Paris is a breeze for shorter distances. Sidewalks and crosswalks conveniently spread throughout the city. Be sure to download and use the Citymapper App. It simplifies navigation, helping you find the fastest route and view bus and metro timetables.
Where to Stay in Paris on a Budget
Paris offers a wide range of budget accommodations that provide comfort without breaking the bank. Choosing accommodation a little further from the main sights can lead to significant savings.
Hostels are a popular choice among budget travelers, with options such as the Generator Paris and St Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord offering both shared and private rooms. Both these hostels are centrally located, have excellent facilities, and offer a social atmosphere, ideal for solo travelers.
For those who prefer a more private setting, budget hotels can be a good choice. Many of these hotels offer clean, comfortable rooms and are conveniently located close to major attractions and transportation links.
Vacation rentals are another economical option, especially if you are traveling with a family. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have a wide range of apartments and studios for rent across the city, often at prices much lower than hotels. This also gives you the added advantage of having your own kitchen to prepare meals.
Final Thoughts on This Budget Paris Itinerary
Paris is a great city to explore and enjoy without breaking the bank. If you plan your trip strategically and stick to a budget, you can make your three days in Paris both memorable and affordable.
There are endless sights to discover whether it’s in the form of artistic masterpieces at the Louvre or breathtaking sunsets along the River Seine. With an efficient use of transportation and museum passes, it’s easier than ever to experience 3 days in Paris on a budget.
So get out there, put on your walking shoes, and explore everything that this spectacular city has to offer!
