That’s because there are hundreds of free things to do in Paris, from markets to churches, parks, and concerts. We’ve pulled together our favorites below, with something to appeal to every type of traveler.

Have something to add to our list? Add your own free favorite activity in the comments section at the end of the post.

Related:
• 45 ways to save on your trip to Paris
• How to save on your hotel in Paris

Top 25 free things to do in Paris

Here’s our official “Top 25” list of our favorite sights and activities in Paris that are completely free. Now let’s explore Paris… gratuit!

1. Try to get lost

We need to start with the most celebrated (if obvious!) freebie of all in Paris… getting lost in this romantic metropolis. Pick a starting point and just go. Soak up the sights and the sounds, the sidewalk ballet, the countless stories playing out before you. Move with the flow and see where the city takes you. Chances are you’ll stumble upon a new favorite shop, cafe or lunch spot — or at least wind up with a few stories to tell. (And you’re never really lost, of course. You’re hardly ever more than a couple blocks from a Metro stop — and a quick trip back to where you started.)

2. Bridges over the Seine

We know, it sounds so cliché, but strolling the bridges of Paris is truly a timeless activity. Of course, the bridges are free to cross, the tolls having disappeared hundreds of years ago. The Pont Neuf, Pont des Arts, and Pont Alexandre III are some of the most famous of the city’s bridges.

And a warning: Don’t even think about spending money attaching one of those locks to any bridge. That’s not cool anymore, so please refrain, thanks!

3. Candy samples

Many of the city’s chocolatiers will offer you a sample if you seem keen to purchase their wares, and some extra-friendly spots encourage samples, even if you don’t have a cent in your pocket to buy anything afterward.

4. Christmas markets

We’re not rushing the seasons here, but the delightful Christmas markets in Paris are coming up soon, and they are all delightfully free to wander. Splurge on a bit of hot wine (“vin chaud”), please, but other than that, there’s no reason to do too much shopping, as prices tend to be a bit inflated for oddball items. Enjoy the atmosphere for zero euros.

5. Churches

Nearly all of Paris’ historic churches are free to enter, wander the aisles, and sit and contemplate. You will need to buy a ticket to take in the stunning stained glass of the Sainte-Chapelle (recommended) and to descend into the crypts of Saint-Denis, but otherwise, all of Paris’ Catholic sanctuaries are free to enter.

Although we are still mourning the loss of Notre Dame (which fortunately reopens its doors this December!), there are other beautiful churches like Saint Sulpice and Saint Germain-des-Prés that you can see and almost never have a wait. In short: If you see a church, stop in and see what’s behind those doors. You’ll probably be impressed.

6. Covered shopping arcades

Fortunately, several of Paris’ charming 19th-century shopping arcades (“passages”) are still open and lined with cute shops and galleries. These glass-covered passages, located mostly in the 9th and 2nd arrondissements, offer an atmospheric throw-back, rich with beautiful architecture.

Our favorites include the Passage des Panoramas near the Musée Grévin and the Passage du Grand Cerf near rue Montorgueil.

7. Eiffel Tower light show

It’s the epitome of kitsch and we love every sparkling moment of it. Every hour on the hour at night, the Eiffel Tower lights up for a few minutes, glittering wildly like the diva she is. Catch a great view from one of the bridges or from Trocadéro just across the river. And good luck with those photos!

8. First Sundays of the month

On the famous first Sunday of the month, admission to Paris’ largest and most famous museums is free. That’s quite a deal, although it also brings with it crowds and insanity. To keep your sanity, avoid any major museums like the Orsay. It’s pointless to wait in line for an hour to save a few euros.

Instead, take advantage of the free admission and head to one of the less famous museums like the Musée des Arts et Métiers or the Musée National Eugène Delacroix. You’ll get in for free and won’t have to wait in line. It’s a cheapo win-win!

9. Galeries Lafayette’s observation deck

Sure, the iconic department store Galeries Lafayette doesn’t give away its merchandise, but that doesn’t stop us from visiting the gorgeous stained glass cupola or heading to the observation deck. Take the escalator all the way to the top for a great free view of Paris, and you won’t break a sweat or your wallet.

10. Gardens and parks

From the Tuileries to the Jardin du Luxembourg, Paris’ few but formidable green spaces are all free to enter and explore. Throw a picnic in the Place des Vosges, sniff the flowers of the Jardin des Plantes or go for a jog in Parc Montsouris with the locals. No admission, no fuss. Just free outdoor beauty.

Related: Parc des Buttes Chaumont: A breath of fresh (and free) air in Paris

Spend a free afternoon visiting the final resting place of everyday Parisians. Photo: Faungg

11. Graves

No matter which cemetery you visit — Père Lachaise, Montmartre, Passy, or Montparnasse — the final resting place of famous and everyday Parisians are free to visit. These beautiful cemeteries feature stunning graves and mausoleums of some of the most famous Parisians, including Edith Piaf, Serge Gainsbourg, and temporary resident Oscar Wilde. But just as interesting and beautiful are the graves of thousands of normal Parisians. Spend an afternoon getting lost wandering through history.

12. Hotel de Ville exhibits

Always keep an eye on the grand Hotel de Ville (City Hall), which regularly hosts free exhibits throughout the year. The shows could be about anything from movies and fashion to history and art. Lines can get long during the weekends, so try to go during the week if possible. (Check out this page for exhibits.)

13. Mansions in the Marais

The Marais was once the home of the rich and (possibly) famous. Many mansions dating back to the Renaissance are still here, including the Hotel de Soubise and the Hotel de Sully. Many of these are now public buildings or museums that are free to explore inside.

While wandering the Marais, be on the lookout for large doors with cute courtyards that might be open to the public, like the Hotel de Marle that houses the Swedish Institute and their cute little café.

Related: A Cheapo day in the Marais

Visit the Maison Victor Hugo to check out where the great writer worked and lived. Photo: BernieCB

14. Museums

The museums run by the city of Paris are F-R-E-E whenever they’re open. The Musée Carnavalet (which reopened in 2021),the Victor Hugo House, and the Musée de la Vie Romantique (which is temporarily closed for renovations until March 2026) are just a few that we can name. Most are closed Monday — you’ve been warned.

Note that several of these museums (we’re looking at you, Carnavalet) will push you to purchase a “donation ticket” for €5, while others (like Maison Victor Hugo) will push tickets for not-free temporary exhibits. Payment is not required for entry, although, of course, donations to museums and cultural institutions are always a good idea.

Related: A list of free and discounted museums in Paris

15. Music recitals

Many of Paris’ lovely old churches offer free musical recitals, most notably the Eglise Saint-Merri next to the Pompidou Center. You’ll likely find something free and classical most nights.

16. Produce markets

Heading to an outdoor food or shopping market, like the Bastille market on Thursday and Sunday, is a great way to see how many of the locals go grocery shopping. The best part is that vendors will often toss you a slice of cantaloupe or whatever they are pushing that day. Take the samples, enjoy them, and pay nothing.

Related: 10 Tips for shopping at outdoor markets in Paris

17. Promenade Plantée

Stroll above the streets on this renovated, elevated train track. You can basically walk from Bastille to Vincennes with very little car traffic to get in your way along Promenade Plantée. It’s a favorite for joggers on the weekends and early mornings, though, so give us — I mean them — a little space, please.

Related: 12 Things to do on a budget in the 12th arrondissement

18. Royal castle

The Chateau de Vincennes, in the east of Paris, is an actual castle that was once home to several of France’s most important kings, as well as a prison for at least one other. It may not be as regal today as it was during its heyday, having been a bit beaten up over the years, but strolling the grounds is a delight… and delightfully free. (You’ll need to pay to get inside, but no pressure.)

19. Ruins and monuments

People don’t automatically consider ancient civilizations when they think of Paris, but we have our share of ruins, ancient monuments and other artifacts, including the Egyptian obelisk at Place de la Concorde. There are also Roman baths next to the Musée de Cluny and, a crowd pleaser, the Arènes de Lutèce, the old Roman amphitheater in the Latin Quarter. Today, locals play pétanque in the old gladiatorial arenas while tourists stop in for a picnic and to use the free Wi-Fi. Times have indeed changed!

Related: 20 Overlooked attractions to explore in Paris | Where to find free Wi-Fi in Paris

20. Street art

Who said art has to be confined to a gallery? Street art from Belleville to the Canal Saint-Martin to Place d’Italie changes semi-regularly, so there’s always something new to see. If you’re a true fan of street art, you can check out the official Paris tourism site for tips on seeing works up close.

21. UNESCO world heritage sites

Usually, UNESCO heritage sites are a big deal, but in Paris, you can stroll one for absolutely free. The banks of the Seine are considered a world heritage site, and with renovated portions like the Berges de Seine finally free of automobiles, it’s a free, world-class activity. (Unless, of course, you get distracted by the cafés and bars along the Berges…)

22. Stuffed animals

The Musée de la Chasse et la Nature is a fantastic museum for anyone interested in dead animals, but the Deyrolle shop in Saint Germain-des-Prés is a great, free-to-visit alternative. This taxidermy shop has a huge collection of stuffed animals that died of natural causes — no poaching here. Maybe you’ll leave with a little butterfly… or something larger. Who knows? (Just be careful about what you bring home!)

An endless view of the city from the tip-top of Montmartre. Photo: Craig Nelson

23. Views

You don’t need to pay to get a nice view of Paris. Forget the Eiffel Tower. You can march up Montmartre, get off the beaten path in Parc de Belleville, or take the elevator to the top of the Institut du Monde Arabe for some stellar shots of Paris. No lines, no fees, just free awesome views over the most beautiful city in the world.

24. Walking tours

We’ve written before about the free Paris tours — which are never really free — but they are a great way to get a cheapo orientation to the city. You’re expected to tip your guides, and they will make this abundantly clear during the 3-4 hour tour. A few euros is usually acceptable, but paper money always makes their day. (Trust me, I know, I was one!)

25. Year-round culture

Depending on when you come to Paris, culture surrounds you and is usually free. It might be free outdoor cinema in the summer, an open-door day at the major monuments, live concerts, a festival, a parade, a fake beach, or free macaron day.

Do your research and know what’s on when you arrive so that you can take advantage of the year-long free events that Paris hosts.

Your favorite free things to do in Paris?

Have something gratuit to add to our list? Add your favorite free thing in our comments section below!

The post Top 25 free things to do in Paris appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Our advice is to visit your top picks on the free or reduced price days, or even better, stick to the many galleries and collections that are free and open to the public all day, every day.

More tips for visiting museums and attractions
• Tips for beating the crowds at top sites in Paris
• 10 Free museums in Stockholm
• How to save money and time at the Prado in Madrid

10 Free museums in Europe

You are probably familiar with the big-name museums, so we came up with a list of 10 favorites that you might not expect. From Paris to Berlin, add these free museums to your to-do list for your next trip.

Free Museums in Paris

Paris hosts a few of the world’s most beloved collections  — among them the Louvre and Musée de Orsay. We’re not at all suggesting you should skip these gems if it’s your first time exploring the City of Light. That said, if you’re not a first-timer or you’re a museum-lover with excess time on your hands, 14 of the City of Paris Museums are free to the public throughout the year. Want a couple of more specific suggestions? Here are two of our favorite free collections in the French capital.

1. The Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

11 Avenue Du Président Wilson
website

MaM, located in the east wing of the Palais de Tokyo a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, is an excellent free option to get a look at contemporary art. The collection contains more than 8,000 works of art including pieces by Picasso and Matisse.

2. The Musée de la Vie Romantique

Hôtel Scheffer-Renan – 16 rue Chaptal
website

Located in the former residence of the painter Ary Scheffer, this 1830 home in Paris’ Pigalle neighborhood gives visitors the chance to relive life in Paris’ romantic period. The artwork by George Sand and Ary Scheffer is set amid furniture, portraits and jewelry from the 18th and 19th century.

Check out our full list of free museums in Paris and book a cheap hotel for your trip.

Virreina Palace in Barcelona is home to art and photo exhibits. Photo: Katherine

Free Museums in Barcelona

Spain’s second-largest city, Barcelona boasts noteworthy collections you simply won’t find anywhere else. Beyond everything Gaudi, there are also museums dedicated to Spanish and Catalan artists like Picasso, Miró, and Tàpies. While most major museums have at minimum, a free afternoon during the week and free first Sundays, there are a few always-free options in the Catalan capital as well.

3. Museo de Carruajes Fúnebres de Barcelona

Carrer de la Mare de Déu de Port, 56
website

While it may be a bit out of the way, Barcelona’s collection of funeral carriages is worth a visit as it features everything from the carriages themselves to funerary ornaments and artifacts. Besides, it’s in Barcelona’s most famous cemetery (Montjüic), which should be on your itinerary for while you’re in town anyway. It’s more than just funerary art — it’s a great place to get sweeping views of Barcelona and beyond.

4. La Virreina Centre de la Imatge

Palau de la Virreina, La Rambla 99
website

Perched near the top end of La Rambla, this 18th-century baroque and rococo palace hosts temporary photo exhibitions and is always free of charge. Even folks who aren’t particularly interested in photography should take a few moments to explore this relatively peaceful space amidst the hubbub of Barcelona’s most boisterous street. You can also see Barcelona’s massive puppets that are used in parades housed on the ground floor here.

Related: Tips for saving at Barcelona’s top attractions 

The Natural History Museum in London. Photo: mapa mundi

Free Museums in London

Keeping more of your pounds in your pocket can be a tall order in the British capital. There are loads of things to see in London, and most of it can cost a pretty penny. But don’t despair. If there’s one thing London has more of than most European capitals, it’s free museums open to the public. Near the top of your list should be the British Museum, aka, the magical place where the Rosetta Stone lives. Sure, there’s usually a suggested donation, but you don’t technically have to pay it. Here are two other world-class spots that are always free.

5. The Natural History Museum

Cromwell Road London SW7 5BD
website

Learn about the natural world in one of the world’s best science museums with an extensive collection of fossils (including dinosaurs and stuffed animal specimens, many of them now extinct) and interactive exhibits on volcanoes and earthquakes.

6. The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
website

Gawk at over 2,300 pieces of artwork in Britain’s National Gallery, free of charge. There’s something for every type of art-lover here from masterpieces by Italian greats like Titian to impressionists like Cézanne.

Looking for even more freebies? Read our guide to 20 free museums in London. If you need a place to stay, check out our top budget hotels in London.

Chester Beatty Library in Dublin. Photo: shadowgate

Free Museums in Dublin

While comparisons between Ireland and England aren’t typically welcomed by either party, there’s one good thing that these two countries have in common — the wide range of free national museums that are open to the public. In Dublin, this means visitors can see all of the artifacts at the National Museum’s collections around town and all of the art at the National Gallery of Ireland without paying admission. The National Gallery even offers free tours on weekends. Meet at the information desk at 11:30 am, 12:30 pm or 1:30 pm.

7. Irish Museum of Modern Art

Royal Hospital, Kilmainham
website

A former hospital, this museum is considered Ireland’s most important modern art gallery. Add to that the fact that it’s surrounded by gorgeous gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll, and it’s worth a visit even in a city like Dublin with a multitude of free museum options.

8. Chester Beatty Library

Dublin Castle, Dublin 2, Ireland
website

Head to Dublin Castle for a look around book-lover Alfred Chester Beatty’s worldly goods and explore his collection of ancient scrolls, books and art objects.

Walking through the Topography of Terror Museum in Berlin. Photo: Craig Nelson

Free Museums in Berlin

Good news! Almost all of Berlin’s regional museums and memorial sites charge no admission, no matter the date. But unfortunately, gone are the days of free admission on Berlin’s famous Museum Island, unless of course, you’re a minor (admission is free for folks under 18 years of age). That said, if it’s your first time in town and you’re much of a museum buff, you probably should shell out the €18 for entry to all five museums. You can also look into picking up a Berlin WelcomCard for discounts. But for everyone else, or folks that have already been, here are two free options we highly recommend.

9. Topography of Terror

Niederkirchnerstraße 8
website

This museum near Potsdamer Platz stands on the historical site of Gestapo offices and SS leadership headquarters in Berlin. It’s the place where the persecution and extermination of political opponents to the Nazis, as well as the coordination of the extermination of Jews, Sinti, and Roma, was organized and managed. The emotional exhibition examines this dark history in a very open and honest manner. Parts of it are outdoors, so bring a jacket.

10. Museum der Unerhörten Dinge

Crellestrasse 5
website

The Museum of Unheard Things is above all things about the story. This curio cabinet — in museum form — showcases a wide range of curious objects (everything from a letter written by Freud to a cowpie), and more importantly, tells the story of their significance.

Are you headed to Berlin soon? Add these 15 free museums in Berlin to your to-do list and browse our top cheap hotels in the city.

Your picks

What are your favorite free museums in Europe? Are there any places you’d add to our list? Let us know in the comments below.

The post 10 Free museums in Europe to visit on your vacation appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Whatever the reason, once you’ve booked your cute and affordable hotel, it’s time to think about ways to really explore the city. Each of Paris’s 20 arrondissements has attractions, museums, and gardens that are too often overlooked.

More Paris reading:
• When is the best time of year to visit Paris?
• How to beat the crowds at Paris’ top attractions
• 7 Favorite day trips and overnight getaways near Paris

20 Overlooked attractions in Paris

Here’s a list to keep handy by arrondissement when you’re looking for an escape from the crowds.

1st: Jardins du Palais

Place du Palais Royal, 75001

Far from hidden, this garden surrounded by arcades and shops is never as busy as the adjacent Louvre. Jardins du Palais is a calm spot, best enjoyed with a coffee from the Kitsuné Café housed under the arcades.

Accommodations: The best cheap hotels in the 1st arrondissement

2nd: Les Passages Couverts

5 Rue de la Banque and 2 Rue Vivienne, 75002

Again, this is central Paris, and far from off the beaten path, but the Galeries Vivienne and Colbert are two of the most striking covered passages to check amble through. There are other covered passages just north, around the Bourse, if you are adventurous enough to hunt them down.

A food stand specializing in sandwiches at Marché des Enfants Rouges. Photo: Craig Nelson

3rd: Marché des Enfants Rouges

39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003

Everyone raves about this market and its rows of food stalls. It’s not gourmet fare at Marché des Enfants Rouges, but there’s a reason everyone lines up for crepes at Chez Alain Miam Miam. Expect crowds, as it’s become less of a secret in recent years.

Related: Tips for shopping at outdoor markets in Paris

4th: Pavillon de l’Arsenal

21 Boulevard Morland, 75004

This heavily renovated artillery warehouse is now home to interactive exhibits about the history of Parisian architecture, perfect for any geek. The location, near the river and away from the bustle of the Marais, means it doesn’t get the foot traffic it deserves.

5th: Arènes de Lutèce

49 Rue Monge, 75005

The perfect place for a picnic away from the crowds, the ruins of this Roman arena are also equipped with free Wi-Fi, just as the Romans intended. Soccer and pétanque matches make for good entertainment. Exploring ruins is just one of our favorite 25 free things to see and do in Paris.

6th: St. Sulpice

2 Rue Palatine, 75006

You’d think all of Dan Brown’s novels would have turned the massive and lovely Eglise St. Sulpice into an equally massive tourist attraction, but crowds are unusually thin (they’re probably queuing instead at nearby Pierre Hermé for macarons).

7th: Musée de l’Armée

129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007

While it dominates the skyline of the 7th arrondissement (besides that tower thing), few tourists seem to know what the inside of this former military hospital turned museum looks like. Once inside the Musee de l’Armée, be sure to visit Napoléon’s tomb — as if you could ever miss it.

Accommodations: Our favorite cheap hotels near the Eiffel Tower

8th: Chapelle Expiatoire

29 Rue Pasquier, 75008

This tiny little chapel in the 8th honors Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI, whose bodies were dumped in a communal pit located here during the Revolution. Yes, it’s kind of creepy.

9th: Musée de la Vie Romantique

16 Rue Chaptal, 75009

An homage to author George Sand, among other artists and sculptors, the tiny little Musee de la Vie Romantique is tucked away in the 9th arrondissement. It’s not exactly a blockbuster museum, but it’s cute… and free!

10th: Maison de l’Architecture

148 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin, 75010

Part former convent, part former military hospital, this exhibit hall is perfect for either 1) fans of architecture or 2) anyone looking for a lovely courtyard café where they can bask in the summer sun in lounge chairs.

11th: Musée d’Edith Piaf

5 Rue Crespin du Gast, 75011

An appointment is needed to visit this rarely visited museum dedicated to one of France’s most iconic singers. Edith Piaf lived here for a while early in her career, and the museum offers super-fans a glimpse into her private life. (Did we mention it’s free?)

Promenade Plantée is a 2.9 mile landscaped walk above the city streets. The original High Line! Photo: La Citta Vita

12th: Promenade Plantée

Quinze-Vingts, 75012

Everyone raves about the High Line in New York, but Paris had its own version first. Take a walk above the city on the Promenade Plantée for a tiny respite from traffic and bikers in the streets.

Stoll along picturesque Ruo Buot in Buttes aux Cailles. Photo: Jean-Francois G.

13th: Buttes aux Cailles

Tiny cobbled streets make this one of the city’s lesser-visited hills or buttes. Grab an inexpensive drink at one of the local bars or cafés and soak in the village-esque atmosphere.

14th: Parc Montsouris

2 rue Gazan

If you find yourself in the 14th arrondissement, it’s probably for the Catacombs or the Montparnasse Cemetery. If you want to shake off your morbid tendencies, take a stroll through the gorgeous Parc Montsouris, a favorite among locals.

15th: Parc André Citroen

2 Rue Cauchy, 75015

I can’t lie — there’s no reason to visit the 15th arrondissement. But if you find yourself inexplicably lost here, look for the hot air balloon in the Parc André Citroen. You can take a ride in it to get great views of the city (adults: €12).

16th: Maison de Balzac

47 Rue Raynouard, 75016

If you’ve wandered into the 16th arrondissement, there are actually quite a few sights to check out, including a lot of fabulous examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Though it may be less interesting from the outside, French writer Balzac’s house is now a museum and is free to visit.

17th: Batignolles

Square des Batignolles, 75017

The 17th is one of those “up and coming” districts with few obvious sights to visit. However, the charming Batignolles Square is part of this vibrant neighborhood and offers lovely English-style gardens.

18th: Montmartre Cemetery

20 Avenue Rachel, 75018

We love strolling around Montmartre but almost everything in the 18th plays second fiddle to the Sacre Coeur Basilica. The adjacent cemetery, however, with gorgeous above-ground tombs and mausoleums, is fascinating to visit and usually fairly empty (at least with living visitors).

Accommodations: Great budget hotels in Montmartre

19th: Parc de la Villette

211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019

Everyone wants to picnic in Buttes Chaumont, but greenery around the La Villette — the former slaughterhouses — is just as charming. The Parc de la Villette offers playgrounds, museums, and the new Philharmonic, and a great lawn for throwing a picnic (although finding a free spot on sunny days is becoming more difficult!).

20th: La Campagne à Paris

Rue Jules Siegfried, 75020

The Père Lachaise Cemetery dominates the 20th, but there are other attractions here — or at least one. Paris feels much less urban in this tiny corner of the city where brick houses and cobbled streets recreate a village from the countryside (or campagne).

Your favorite under-the-radar attractions

Is there a special place that you love to visit during your Paris vacation? Share your picks by leaving a comment below.

The post Paris: Escape the crowds at these 20 overlooked attractions appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Some of us save up our whole lives to visit the City of Light, so pricey mistakes aren’t something we want to keep as souvenirs.

While a few faux-pas here or there won’t ruin your experience, there are a few common mistakes to look out for that will make your first days a little smoother. Avoid these in order to keep within your budget and to save time to get the most out of your trip.

More Paris tips:
• Our favorite budget hotels in Paris
• 50 Ways to save on your Paris vacation
• Eating your way through Paris for €20 a day
• How to get the most out of your first day in Paris

8 Mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Paris

Tap water is free at restaurants. Just ask for it with the magic words “Une carafe d’eau, s’il vous plait.” Photo: photokitty07

1. Paying for water

Waiters will prey on innocent tourists who may be wondering if the tap water in Paris is drinkable. The days of the plague are mostly over, so don’t fear — French tap water is just fine. Don’t feel pressured into buying pricey bottled water unless you want sparkling or mineral varieties. Just ask for a “carafe d’eau“, and spend the euros on an extra dessert instead.

2. Booking too many passes

Armed with a Paris Museum Pass and a Metro pass, you can avoid some lines and having to worry about purchasing tickets. But there will always be that pressure to use the passes. What if it’s a nice day and you want to walk, but you haven’t used the pass yet? What if you want to linger more in the gardens but you need to use the museum pass before it expires? If you want the security of the passes, just be sure to plan your route to make sure you don’t lose out in the end.

3. Going to Versailles

Is it a mistake to go to Versailles? No. But with only a few precious days in Paris, is it necessary for a first-time visit? We’ll let you decide. If you’re going in the spring or summer, however, be prepared to surrender several hours of your vacation time to waiting in line at the majestic chateau before fighting crowds inside to catch a glimpse of Marie Antoinette’s bed. If you’re on the fence, don’t feel bad about skipping the trek out there, or even opting for a lesser-visited chateau-like Chantilly.

4. Tipping when you don’t have to

With taxi drivers, hairdressers and tour guides, don’t feel bad about tipping. With anyone else, there is absolutely no need to, unless the service went above and beyond the norm. Just round the bill up and leave the change. Paris tipping rules are as simple as that.

5. Eating breakfast in the hotel

There’s no need to dig deep into your pockets for a bit of breakfast. Head to a café for a coffee and croissant for under €5 or just get an assortment to go from your local bakery and leave the breakfast buffet for when all the bakers are on strike. Yes, it has happened before.

Hotel Henri IV is literally in the bulls-eye center of the city at the tip of the Ile de la Cité. Photo: EuroCheapo

6. Not staying central to save a few euros

That cheap hotel out by Disneyland seems great because it’s just so gosh-darn cheap. But the commute into Paris isn’t much different from those who come from London (I exaggerate…kind of). We love cheap hotels, too, and that’s why we push our favorites in the heart of the city — because you didn’t fly all the way to Paris to spend hours on a train, did you?

7. Being a slave to lines

Queue up in Paris — we all need to at some point. While you’re at the Eiffel Tower, I’m at the grocery store, and the lines are often comparable. But pick your battles. Lines at the Louvre are shorter on Wednesday and Friday nights, and the same goes for the Musée d’Orsay on Thursday evenings, while the Eiffel Tower is always pretty busy. Plan ahead so that if you have no bookings or pre-purchased tickets, you won’t hit all of the lines at all the wrong times.

8. Trying to do it all

You planned and planned, you thought you could do it all, but alas. It’s just impossible. Paris will be here for quite some time, so if you didn’t get to every major sight, there’s always tomorrow. The Mona Lisa isn’t going anywhere (hopefully), and the Eiffel Tower should still be standing, so try to enjoy what you do experience and make the to-do list for round two.

Your tips

Do you remember your first time in Paris? Let us know if you had any stories from your rookie visit.

The post Visiting Paris for the first time: 8 rookie mistakes to avoid appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The development of free museum nights has really taken off across Europe, with city after city opening their doors once or twice a year for a free evening. Paris usually holds its free night each year on the third Saturday in May.

This year, Cheapos headed to Paris should mark their calendar for May 19, 2018, when most museums will be free and museums will keep their doors open later than usual to give guests the experience of a lifetime.

Paris hotels:  Our favorite budget picks for 2018

“La Nuit des Musees”: Museum Night in Paris

While there will be more 1,600 museums participating throughout France, we’ve narrowed down a list of 10 museums in Paris that will be open. Follow this Museum Night guide to quench your thirst for adventure and art while exploring the different neighborhoods that Paris has to offer.

1. Le Musee Nissim de Camondo

63 Rue de Monceau
8th arrondissement
website

Have you ever wondered what kitchen looked like the housed the inspiration for the movie Ratatouille? The museum of Nissim de Camondo was given by Nissim’s father, Moise de Camondo, to the French government upon his death. After his son and only heir died in World War I, Moise de Camondo was heartbroken and dedicated his house to his son in order to carry on his child’s memory and legacy.

This museum will give you a history lesson of what it was like to live in the 1% in France during the early 1900s. Amenities include two elevators (one for the guests and one for the maids), a food lift (forget farm-to-table fresh, Moise de Camondo demanded kitchen-to-table fresh), color-coated tile bathrooms (green, blue, and white for dad, his sister, and Nissim), heated floors and walls, a grand staircase, and many more opulent perks that were simply unimaginable in the early 20th century.

2. Musee Gustave Moreau

14 Rue de la Rochefoucauld
9th arrondissement
website

After enjoying stunning architecture in the 8th, we’ll take a stroll into the 9th arrondissement to have a look at the house of the symbolist painter, Gustave Moreau. This three-floor museum is filled with his paintings that draw inspiration from the Italian Renaissance. Furthermore, you even get to see some of his unfinished paintings and sketches to truly experience the life of a Parisian artist of the mid- to late-1800s.

3. Musee de la Franc-Maconnerie

16 Rue Cadet
9th arrondissement
website

What’s a French vacation without a little conspiracy theory? The Museum of Freemasonry is also located in the 9th arrondissement, and it’s sure to scratch whatever itch you’ve had about the 14 US Presidents that were part of this organization. Yup, George Washington, the first president was indeed a Mason, and the Museum of Freemasonry will give you all the inside scoop on the French history of this secret society, complete with many paintings and drawings of the famous triangular Illuminati eye. You might have to unstrap your Ben Stiller Night at the Museum character for a more appropriate Nicholas Cage in National Treasure while you peruse through this museum.

Accommodations: Cheap Paris hotels in the 9th arrondissement

4. Musee des Arts et Metiers

60 Rue Reaumur
3rd arrondissement
website

Now that you have enjoyed the architecture, art, and organization of Paris, it’s only fitting that you also explore the scientific innovations that kept this city running. Located in 3rd arrondissement of Paris, this industrial museum of art and trade houses seven sections about the history of scientific instruments, materials, energy, mechanics, construction, communication, and transportation. You’ll get to explore early prototypes of carriages, printing presses, airplanes, industrial sewing machines, steam engines, satellites, locomotives, and many more technological inventions.

Visitors during Museum Night 2011 at Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature. Photo: Knowtex

5. Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature

62 Rue des Archives
3rd arrondissement
website

For this visit, we’ll need a bit of help from our Ben Stiller character from the Night at the Museum because this museum of “hunting and nature” is not so much about hunting as it is about animals and their relationships with humans. The exhibit has been heralded as one of the best-curated museum in Paris… as long as the animals don’t come back to life at night!

6. Musee Picasso

5 Rue de Thorigny
3rd arrondissement
website

Although he is a Spanish artist, Paris has a Picasso Museum that’s worth visiting. It includes over 5,000 works of art by Picasso including paper art, ceramics, sculptures in wood and metal, and paintings. The museum also houses the African art that inspired Picasso’s cubism style, as well as paintings that Picasso did when he was much older.

Accommodations: Cheap Paris hotels in the 3rd and 4th arrondissement

7. Centre Pompidou

Place Georges-Pompidou
4th arrondissement
website

The Centre Pompidou is not for the faint of heart (or legs). It is a large complex that houses three important structures: The Public Information Library, the Musee National d’Art Moderne, and Institute for Research and Coordination in Acoustics/Music. Most people go for the Modern Art Museum aspect because it not only holds the largest collection of European modern art, but the top floor boasts one of the best panoramic views of Paris.

8. Musee Curie

1 Rue Pierre et Marie Curie
5th arrondissement
website

As we cross into the Rive Gauche (Left Bank), we’re met by a blast from the scientific past. Formerly Marie Curie’s laboratory, the Museum of Curie is a historical institution located in the 5th arrondissement focusing on radiological research. It holds archives and documentation about the history of radiology and oncology — the same two topics that allowed Marie Curie to become the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.

9. Musee des Arts Decoratifs

107 rue de Rivoli
1st arrondissement
website

A trip to Paris is incomplete without a visit to the Art Decoratifs. Not only does it house artifacts of decorative arts and design, but it also includes must-see exhibits that explore the Haute Couture fashion aspect of Paris (think Dior, Hermes, and Margiela). Furthermore, it even has part of the actual house of French designer, Jeanne Lanvin of the House of Lanvin! The Art Deco, as it goes by for short, houses jewelry, furniture, tableware, and carpets of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. It gives visitors a chance to see how the French upper class lived.

10. Musee du Louvre

Place du Carrousel
1st arrondissement
website

It’s always high on everyone’s list, so we certainly couldn’t leave the dear Louvre off of ours. Because it’s so big, it may be more beneficial to experience the Louvre when you have a full day and use Museum Night to take advantage of the smaller Parisian museums with free admission. Nonetheless, the Louvre is phenomenal and has come to represent the epitome of Paris and the resting place of Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. And it is here, at the Louvre, in the center of Paris, that we end our Museum Night journey!

One caveat: We tried getting into the Louvre at midnight during previous Nuit des Musées only to find the entrance closed at 11 pm, so check the hours in advance. Our advice? Plan ahead. Fortunately, the Louvre’s terrace bar overlooks the pyramids. And, of course, there’s the adjacent Jardin des Tuileries, with its much more hospitable hours.

Hotels: And if you need a place to stay close to this world-famous museum, you can browse our list of cheap hotels near the Louvre.

The post Museum Night in Paris: Free admission and late hours during “La Nuit des Musees” appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

While you never really need any reason to visit, we thought we’d put together a list of 50 major events hosted by Paris in 2017, all of which seem pretty great to us. You can find many more listed on Paris’s official visitor website. On y va!

Related:
• 50 ways to save on your trip to Paris
• The top budget hotels in Paris

Events calendar: Paris in 2017

Funny, you don’t look 40! Photo: williamchatelain

January

1. Winter shopping sales!

January 11 – end of February

Most of the shops in town cut their prices and offer huge discounts every year during Paris’ “soldes” (sales), which begin city-wide on January 11. Sales last for up to six weeks! (Check out these favorite shopping neighborhoods.)

2. Richard Avedon show

Through February 26

The Bibliothèque National de France hosts “La France d’Avedon,” a show examining the role France has played in the photographer’s work.

3. The Pompidou turns 40!

January 31, 2017

Exactly 40 years after Beaubourg opened its colorful, glassy doors, the cultural center has a packed calendar of events to commemorate its big anniversary. Events will be held throughout 2017 in 40 French cities, and Paris will celebrate the opening from February 4-5, along with hosting major exhibits throughout 2017 (including the first-ever retrospective of the American artist Cy Twombly, through April 24).

Cheapo note: Remember to avoid fashion week (January 18-26, 2017), as the city’s hotels will be packed with fashion industry types (with expense accounts), and rates will be sky-high.

Vermeer’s “La Latière”, one of the iconic works on display at the Louvre’s exhibit.

February

4. Grand Salon d’art Abordable

February 17-19, 2017

In the mood to bring home some artwork? Stop by the 20th annual “Affordable Art Fair” at the Bellevilloise, where you can find something artsy for every budget, from €50-€5,000.

5. Louvre Exhibit: “Vermeer and the Masters of Genre Painting”

February 22 – May 22, 2017

In February, the Louvre opens one of its biggest shows of the year, an exploration of the works of Vermeer, shown alongside those of his Dutch contemporaries. Not to be missed.

6. Musée Marmottan Monet: Pissarro Retrospective

February 23 – July 2, 2017

The Marmottan Monet museum, dedicated to Claude Monet’s Impressionism paintings and the artist’s own personal art collection, hosts a retrospective on Camille Pissarro, “le Premier des Impressionnistes.”

On your mark, get set, CLIMB! Photo: josefstuefer

March

7. Race to the top of the Eiffel Tower!

March 16, 2017

Think you’re fast on a StairMaster? Step up to the “Verticale de la Tour Eiffel” challenge, and try to be the fastest to climb the Eiffel Tower’s 1,665 steps.

8-9. Picasso about Town

There are two major Picasso shows opening in March, sure to delight fans of the Spanish-born painter:

• The Musée Picasso focuses on what role the artist’s first wife, Olga, played in his work. “Olga Picasso” opens at the museum on March 21 (through September 3, 2017).

• Meanwhile, the Musée du Quai Branly looks at the artist from another angle — examining the influence of non-western art on his work in “Picasso Primitif” (March 28-July 23, 2017).

10. Printemps du Cinema

March 19-21, 2017

Cinephiles take note: The 17th annual “Printemps du Cinema” spring film celebration means €4 tickets to films at cinemas throughout the city. What a deal!

11. Grand Palais: Rodin Retrospective

March 22 – July 31, 2017

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the sculptor’s death, the Grand Palais will host one of the year’s biggest art retrospectives, which will bring together for the first time works by Rodin and his contemporaries from a number of different collections. Think you can just show up? Get your tickets in advance!

Racing along the Seine during the Paris marathon. Photo: lilipop

April

12. Paris Marathon

April 9, 2017

Join (or simply watch) more than 57,000 runners, as they race along many of Paris’ main thoroughfares, including along the Seine, for the Paris Marathon. If you plan to visit for the marathon, be sure to swing by the “Salon du Running“, a runner’s trade fair, from April 6-8, 2017. (Not up for an entire marathon? Join in the half marathon instead, on March 5!)

13. Photography Month!

April is “Mois de la Photo de Grand Paris”, with more than 80 photography exhibits taking place in the greater Paris region. Check out all events here.

14. Walker Evans at the Pompidou

Photo fans should also be sure to swing by the Pompidou Center’s Walker Evans retrospective, which opens April 26.

15-16. Salon Sugar / VeggieWorld

April 20-22, and 22-23, 2017

Want to try something sweet? Snack your way through the Salon Sugar at the Parc Floral (April 20-22). Looking for a healthier expo? Go natural at VeggieWorld, France’s largest vegan party, held at Le Centquatre.

Hang out at the Louvre until midnight on May 20! Photo: doc_bosco

May

17. Walking and eating tours: Les Heures Heureuses

Pack both your appetite and your walking shoes for this three-day event, which pairs neighborhood walks with stops to taste local bites from more than 280 restaurants, for only €2 each. Check the website for neighborhood food maps and schedules!

18. Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés festival

May 11-22

Tap your toes along with world-class performers at the Saint-German-des-Pres Jazz festival, now in its 17th year. Visiting in June? Swing over to Parc Floral for the Paris Jazz Festival (June dates TBA).

19. Belleville Artists’ Open Studios

May 13-16, 2017

Head to the artsy Belleville neighborhood in northeast Paris as more than 250 artists open their studios to the public, free of charge. Meet artists and take home a unique and affordable souvenir!

20. Night of Museums

May 20

Stay out until midnight browsing the galleries at more than a hundred museums in the Paris region during the annual Nuit des Musées! Best of all, admission to city-run museums is free.

21. French Open tennis tournament

May 22-June 11, 2017

The world’s best tennis players race onto the clay courts to compete for the cherished title at the Roland Garros stadium. Get your tickets in advance!

Dancing in the streets during the Fete de la Musique. Photo: stijn nieuwendijk

June

22-24. Art blockbusters!

In June, several major art expositions will open to the public. Three of our favorites are:

• “Derain, Balthus and Giacometti“ opens June 2 at the Musée d’Art Modern de la Ville de Paris, with more than 200 works by the great modernists.

• “Portraits de Cezanne“ opens mid-June at the Musée d’Orsay, examining the great landscape artist’s lesser-known portrait works.

• David Hockney retrospective in late June at the Pompidou Center celebrates the artist’s 80th birthday with a major showcase of his work.

25. Fête de la Musique

June 21, 2017

Celebrate the beginning of summer with free concerts all over the city in performance halls, neighborhood squares, and street corners!

26. Summer Sales

June 28, 2017

Almost every shop in town gets in on the “Summer Soldes“, when they slash prices on clothes for nearly six weeks of sales!

“Paris Plages” turns the banks of the Seine into a beachy oasis. Photo: dkakiuthi

July

27. Christian Dior exhibit

July 6, 2017 – January 2018

A major retrospective on the wildly talented artist and designer opens at the Musée des Arts Décoratif on July 6.

28. Open Air Cinema

July 12-August 20 and July 28-August 13, 2017

The summer months will give film-lovers dozens of opportunities to catch some notable flicks in the great outdoors. The “Open Air Cinema Festival” (July 12-August 20) presents films with a cooking theme this year at La Villette, while the Cinéma au Claire de Lune (“Cinema by Moonlight”) series will be projecting a wide variety of films outdoors throughout Paris from July 28-August 13.

29. Bastille Day!

Friday, July 14, 2017

The French celebrate their national holiday in style, with a parade along the Champs-Elysées, fireworks over the Eiffel Tower, and “fireman balls” (yes, dancing with French firemen) at fire stations all over the city! Here’s our guide to celebrating in cheapo-style.

30. Paris Plages!

July 20 – August 21

Throughout the summer, “Paris Plages” transforms the banks of the Seine into a beachy oasis, with all the sporty fun and beach chairs that go along with it. Stroll along the sand or take a seat and soak up some rays.

31. Lollapalooza

July 22 and 23, 2017

That’s right, the American rock music festival Lollapalooza has expanded to Europe, and will be rocking out for two days of concerts at the Longchamp race track. Check the official website for more information and updates.

32. Tour de France finish

July 23, 2017

After pedaling literally all over the country, a swarm of thousands of cyclists descends upon the capital on July 23 in a mad race to the finish line. See all dates and schedules on the Tour de France website.

33. Concerts at the Hôtel de Ville

In July, the main square in front of the Hôtel de Ville hosts four days of free live concerts for its Fnac Live concert series. Come early, these concerts draw big names — and big crowds!

August

34. Parisians on Vacation

Wait, where is everyone? Although museums and sights are open during the month of August (including many of the fabulous art exhibits mentioned above), many of the locals are not around for the month. Many smaller shops and restaurants close up for most of August, as well.

So should you still come? Here are some thoughts on visiting Paris in August.

Cheapo note: August does tend to be the cheapest summer month to visit, as very few business travelers visit the city and many leisure travelers opt for the beach. Hotel vacancies tend to be higher, driving down rates.

Paris in September means perfect weather and fewer tourists. Photo: hollywood_north

September

35. Festival d’Automne

September – December

This four-month autumn arts festival draws more than 100,000 spectators to 40+ events celebrating contemporary theater, dance, music, visual arts and film. See website for calendar.

36. European Heritage Day

September 16-17, 2017

Gain free access to spots that are usually off-limits to visitors during this two-day Europe-wide celebration.

37. René Goscinny exhibit

The life and far-reaching work of Goscinny, creator of Astérix and Obélix, Petit Nicolas, and Lucky Luke, will be on display at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaisme.

38. Placido Domingo’s “Aida”

September 23, 2017

Opera fans take note: Placido Domingo will conduct Verdi’s “Aida” in a lavish production at the Stade de France for one night only. Tickets from €29.

39. Fête de la Gastronomie

September 22-24

Eat your heart out at the Fete de la Gastronomie, which offers tasting sessions, lectures, and workshops, all of which celebrate France’s rich culinary tradition.

The Hotel de Ville is all lit up for “Nuit Blanche” in early October. Photo: ancorena

October

40. Nuit Blanche

October 7-8, 2017

Artists take their work to the streets on the night of October 7, leading the public from one art installation to the next for the city’s “Nuit Blanche” celebration.

41-44. Major fall art openings

The fall art season offers several heavy-hitters at the big museums around town, most of which open in October. These include:

• October 4: Rubens at the Musée du Luxembourg showcases the artist’s portraits of European monarchs.

• October 9: Gauguin at the Grand Palais; a major retrospective of the artist’s career.

• October 10: “Picasso 1947” at the Picasso Museum, features the 10 major works the artist donated in 1947 to the Musée National d’Art Moderne.

• October 18: The Louvre will focus on Francois I’s relationship to Dutch art for its exhibit “Francois I and Dutch Art“.

45. Salon du Vintage

Weekend in mid-October

The Carreau du Temple in the Marais hosts the annual Salon du Vintage, which brings together purveyors of vintage clothing, furniture, vinyl records, and more.

46. Salon du Chocolat

October 28 – November 1, 2017

More than 500 chocolate makers, dealers, artists and gurus descend upon the Porte de Versailles to celebrate everything chocolate at the Salon du Chocolat.

Ride sky-high over central Paris on the “Roue de Paris”. Photo: ayustety

November

47. The “Big Wheel” goes up!

From mid-November through mid-May, the city’s Ferris wheel (the “Roue de Paris“) in the Jardin du Tuileries offers riders an exceptional view over central Paris.

48. Photo fairs

November 9-13, 2017

Photogs take note: Paris hosts a number of major photography-related expos in November, including the Salon de la Photo at the Porte de Versailles (November 9-13) and the Paris Photo Fair at the Grand Palais (November 9-12).

Paris gets into the holiday spirit. Photo: scrubs

December

49. Christmas window displays

The city’s big department stores get in the Christmas mood in December when they unveil their holiday window displays. From Galeries-Lafayette to Printemps and the Bon Marché, there’s a lot of holiday in store! Here are some tips for finding the best displays and getting in the holiday mood.

50. New Year’s eve celebration

Finally, head to the Champs-Élysées on December 31 to join the crowds gazing over at the midnight light show. Happy 2018!

The post 50 Reasons to visit Paris in 2017 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Let’s break down the pass, and try to make it comprehensible. The website, in typical French style, doesn’t make it extremely easy at first glance, but the multiple options aren’t too complicated to follow.

What is the Passlib’?

The Paris Passlib’ is actually a combination of several existing Paris passes into one mega-pass:

• The Paris Visite pass: which offers unlimited access to the Metro and public transportation +

• The Paris Museum Pass: which offers free entry to many of the city’s big museums and galleries +

• The Paris Passlib’ card (the new addition): which covers an hour-long boat cruise and a day-long sightseeing bus tour.

All of these passes are available in 2-, 3-, and 5-day options (see prices below).

There is also another option, the “Passlib’ Mini” that excludes the Paris Museum and the Paris Visite passes, so essentially it’s just a boat ride and a one-day bus tour, plus the chance to upgrade to a visit to the Eiffel Tower  (see below).

Passlib’ prices

The cost of the new Passlib’ varies depending on your age and the duration of the pass. (See all pass options on the Passlib’ website):

Adults:

• Paris Passlib’ Mini – Adult: €40
• Paris Passlib’ 2 Days – Adult: €109
• Paris Passlib’ 3 Days – Adult: €129
• Paris Passlib’ 5 Days – Adult: €155
  + Eiffel Tower (second level): €15 extra

Youth: (EU members: 12-25; non-EU: 12-17 years)

• Paris Passlib’ Mini – Youth: €35
• Paris Passlib’ 2 days – Youth: €65
• Paris Passlib’ 3 days – Youth: €70
• Paris Passlib’ 5 days – Youth: €90
  + Eiffel Tower (second level): €15 extra

Children (4-11 years)

• Paris Passlib’ Mini – Child: €26
• Paris Passlib’ 2 Days – Child: €35
• Paris Passlib’ 3 Days – Child: €39
• Paris Passlib’ 5 Days – Child: €47
  + Eiffel Tower (second level): €15 extra

Skip line at Eiffel Tower

And on top of all of these choices, you can add a €15 supplement to access the Eiffel Tower’s second level without waiting in line. While it seems attractive, remember that another ticket is required to reach the top of the tower, costing an additional few euros.

Usually, tourists can book a time slot to go up the tower in advance, but often dates and times are sold out months in advance, or it ends up raining on the day of your reservation. This addition with the Paris Passlib’ changes all of that.

The verdict?

Is it really worth it? It depends. For a 2-day pass for an adult, at €109 (without the Eiffel Tower), you’ll get the following items, which would normally total roughly €117.15:

• Paris Visite: €18.15/2 days
• Paris Museum Pass: €48/2 days
• Bus tour: €32/day tour
• Boat tour: €14/1 hour tour
• Paris Passlib’ book: (a map) maybe valued at €5.

So you save a bit, but the real question is, did you want all of that?

Paris is an entirely walkable city, and most tourists can get by just fine splitting a carnet (a booklet of 10 Metro tickets) over a few days.

The museum pass for two days will require some intensive museum-going in order to make it worth it, and what if the weather’s great and you just want to picnic or stroll? Also, children under 18 get in free to museums anyway, and the Paris Visite is cheaper for them.

And what about that bus ride? Do you want to sit on a bus for a whole day? If it’s your first time to Paris, maybe, but then to sit on a boat as well? It could be a bit of overkill. Could you just have spent €1.80 on a public bus and toured the city like the locals?

The argument for…

The pass certainly does group everything together in one package, and the addition of the Eiffel Tower line-hop is attractive, as long as too many people don’t purchase this same option.

If money is no issue, the pass is a solid way to prepare a family trip without too much fuss, while ensuring activities for the whole family.

If money is an issue, but you want to pack in as much sightseeing and visits as possible, the card could work in your favor if you plan accordingly: Spend one day on a bus, then two days crisscrossing the city in the Metro to visit the most expensive museums for free. It could work.

The argument against…

For budget travelers looking to really explore Paris, the pass may create a stress to spend time doing things that you may not have wanted to do in the first place. In the interest of “getting your money’s worth,” you may forgo exploring the streets of Paris in order to heap on museums and vehicle tours around town.

Don’t forget that some of the city’s best museums are free (the Carnavalet, the Victor Hugo house) and the boat and bus rides could be overkill for those who like to walk (or take a Velib’ like the locals). In a city where sitting in a café and watching the world go by constitutes an activity in my book – and at only €2-3 for a coffee on a terrace – it’s difficult to consider the pass a great idea.

Final thought

For those seeking the structure and the serenity of a travel pass, the Pass Parislib’ could work well. Just be sure you know why you’re purchasing it and be certain that it will really offer you experiences that you want during your visit to Paris.

The post Paris Tourist Cards: Should you buy the new Paris Passlib’? appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

This is in line with several museums across Europe and New York that have also upped their schedules in recent years to help keep up with growing demand as they try to increase revenue for their institution. This new policy by the Ministry of Culture could result in big changes in how tourists experience Paris. Let’s take a look at some of the potential impacts.

Current opening times

The Louvre
Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 9 AM to 6 PM
Wednesday, Friday: 9 AM to 9:45 PM
Closed on Tuesdays

Related: 7 Tips for surviving the Louvre

Musée d’Orsay
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Thursdays: 9:30 AM to 9:45 PM
Closed on Mondays

Related: Tips for visiting Musée d’Orsay

Palace of Versaille
Tuesday through Sunday: 9 am to 5:30 PM (6:30 PM in high season)
Closed on Mondays

Related: 5 Tips for making the most of your visit to Palace of Versaille

Will the Louvre lines grow shorter or longer with the new daily schedule? Photo: Eric Chan

Less crowded museums?

As the schedules stand now, other museums gain visitors when their counterparts are closed. This can lead to even longer waits than usual, and for anyone who has been to Paris recently, the last thing you want to do is spend even more time in line. For example, tourists will flock to the Louvre on Mondays, because Palace of Versailles and Musée d’Orsay are both closed on that day. Consequently, the same goes for Tuesdays, when visitors are turned away from the Louvre.

Maybe this will decrease congestion and help improve the flow? Right now visitors have to carefully plan their strategy if they want explore these iconic French landmarks. The crowds and lines can be difficult to navigate, and you need to know when each of the museums is not open. You can easily waste valuable time, especially if you’re only in the city for a few days. More options for visitors can never hurt, and being able to create a more flexible schedule for a visit is a good thing.

Impact on budget travelers

For the budget traveler to Paris this new policy could have significant benefits.  The city’s museum pass is already a good deal for those who want to focus on cultural highlights on a Paris vacation. It might become an even better deal once theses museums open everyday, as card holders will have more opportunities to get into the big ones like the Louvre. For those planning a weekend trip with a Monday or Tuesday tacked on, it will be a lot easier to squeeze in a few extra visits and get your money’s worth out of a museum card.

Related: 50 ways to save time and money in Paris

Final thoughts

MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) in New York switched to a daily schedule in 2013, and I could immediately feel the impact. It’s still usually packed, but having an extra day to visit has seemed to thin out the crowds over all seven days. As a member, it’s also nice to have an added day during the week to catch that blockbuster show before it closes.

In the end, more is always better than less when it comes to access to local attractions, and being open that extra day can only lead to positive impacts for visitors and locals alike. We’ll wait to see the final results, but we’ll stay hopeful that once these changes are made, we’ll have more time to explore Paris and less time standing in a queue.

What do you think? Are you excited for these new changes coming to Paris? Let us know!

The post The Louvre, Versailles and Musée d’Orsay to expand opening times in 2015 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

1. Parisians are rude to tourists.

This is a big city, like New York or London, and you get your grumps alongside some of the sweetest people in the world, so be prepared. But did you say “bonjour”? Did you smile? Or did you just expect the red carpet to be rolled out?

Service is different in Paris, where waiters don’t work for tips and hotels don’t have to worry about filling beds, so they’re not always going to go that extra mile. But the average Parisian on the street won’t blow you off with a huff and puff of their cheeks—at least not always.

Nobody is forcing you to go. Photo: David McKelvey

2. You have to go to the Louvre.

You don’t have to go anywhere in Paris. Is the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame or any monument worth a visit? Yes, of course. But you can’t sink your whole trip to Paris by not doing something that others deem essential. I’m by no means discouraging visiting the top tourist attractions, but if art isn’t your thing, then do you really want to spend hours in a museum? Just sayin…

The charming Hotel Eldorado has doubles from €68 a night.

3. Paris is expensive.

Wine for €3 a bottle, entire baguette sandwiches for €4, hotel rooms for under €100, metro rides for less than €2, museums for free… need I go on?

If you want to live the high life, Paris makes it easy, but if you’re on a budget, Paris makes it even easier if you know where to look. You don’t have to compromise an amazing experience, either, just because you’re pinching pennies.

A visit to the Carnavalet museum (free!) will be just as rewarding as a dip into the Musée de l’Orangerie (€9). A falafel sandwich from L’As (€5.50) is a very different, but just as memorable experience as a meal at Le Meurice (€200). Well, maybe…

Do some research and ask around to find a good meal. Photo: EuroCheapo

4. You can’t get a bad meal in Paris.

Rubbery steak, frozen fries and stale pastries are just as much a part of the Parisian landscape as all of that food porn you’ve seen by bloggers and magazines. Blogger Lindsey Traumuta says to do your research before choosing a restaurant, if quality food is important for you. “That the cuisine is French, or prepared in France, doesn’t equate to perfection,” she says.

Some restaurants put more effort into translating their menus into ten languages than in actually preparing good food, so don’t be fooled. If your meal doesn’t taste good, it’s OK, you’re not the first to have eaten there. Or the last.

Seriously, it’s not (usually) like this. Photo: Luc Dib

5. All Parisians are chic dressers.

Fashion week, shmashion week—Parisians aren’t as elegant as you think. Sure the ladies and gents on the runway look fabulous, but the daily Parisian varies from the Chucks and skinny jeans with a faded tee shirt worn by hipsters along the Canal to a tailored suit and cropped haircut for the business associates. Ladies often mix and match boots with leggings and sweaters that even Picasso would find odd, while oversized sweatpants are seen in the Marais.

There’s no one look—Parisians dare them all. The only difference is no matter how ludicrous their outfit is, they wear it with confidence. But it can still look terrible.

Paris’ police force is everywhere—even on bikes. Photo: crash

6. Paris is dangerous.

Unless dog droppings are your kryptonite, Paris isn’t really that much of a crime den. In fact, pickpocketing decreased 22.4% last summer compared to 2012.

Violent crimes are extremely rare, and there are a few scams such as people asking for signatures on fake petitions while pickpocketing you, but it rarely escalates. Common sense, like in any city, should be exercised in crowded areas and the Metro, but otherwise there’s nothing to fear.

Alone in Paris? You’ll fit right in. Photo: Damien Roué

7. Paris is for lovers.

Paris is actually for singles, since around 51% of the city is without a partner, much higher than the national average. Once together, many young French couples flee the city. So come to the city, find a mate, and then hightail it out. When doe-eyed tourists in love visit the city, you can be sure that the many bachelors and maidens will be judging. And harshly, at that.

Go ahead and ask. He understands (and probably has a really cute accent). Photo: Julie Kertesz

8. Parisians don’t speak English.

How often have we heard, “Uh, my Eenglish iz not zogewd,” when speaking with a waiter? A rigid education system that dabbles in public shaming has left many French people afraid to carry on a discussion in a foreign language, but most English-speakers are all too ready to praise their efforts, which usually reveal pretty decent mastery.

“Many of them speak it, and more of them understand it, even if they’re afraid to speak because of pronunciation,” says tour guide and writer Heather Stimmler-Hall. Secretly, they probably just love the flow of compliments that you’ll inevitably shower on them.

The post Paris: 8 travel myths debunked appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

You might wonder why the site of a sporting event ranked high on my list of must-see attractions in this “city of art and culture”, but this is no ordinary tennis stadium. Host to the French Open, one of the four majors of the sport, Roland Garros is rivaled only by Wimbledon in history and charm. (All apologies to partisans of Melbourne and Flushing Meadows.)

A view over the practice courts at Roland Garros

With its leafy campus outside of the city center and just adjacent to the massive Bois de Boulogne park, Roland Garros is a pleasant spot for an urban escape.  During the French Open, of course, the scene is probably much more hectic, but we were visiting the complex while all the stars of tennis were busy at the U.S. Open back in New York.

Touring Roland Garros

I had expected the tour to include a stroll through the striking red-clay courts that tennis fans know so well, and perhaps a visit to center court. Rather, the hour-plus tour was a sweep of the entire campus, including visits to the press boxes, media rooms, and players’ locker rooms, finishing up with a visit to the French Federation of Tennis Museum.

Your 2013 French Open champion, Brendan Linard! (Or so I got to pretend.)

Visitors can sit in the press room and pretend they won the championship, while an audio recording of the most recent final adds the proper ambiance to the center court visit.  And no, unfortunately you don’t get to walk on the clay court itself (the groundskeepers would be beside themselves).

Filled with history and interesting anecdotes about players ranging from Suzanne Lenglen to Steffi Graf and Rafael Nadal, the tour will be appreciated by any tennis fan visiting Paris. Even non-fans will feel the historical significance of the complex.

Tours cost €10.50 per person (€8.50 for children and students) and a combined tour/museum ticket runs €15.50. English-language tours depart at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (plus Tuesdays and Thursdays during French school holidays). Check out the Roland Garros website for more information.

Free and cheapo visits

If you’re not willing to dish out for a tour, but you still want to take in the scenery of the Roland Garros campus, access is perfectly free for most of the year. You won’t get to see center court or the other auxiliary attractions, but the grounds themselves are worth the trip on the Metro.

During the French Open, of course, you’ll have to pay to get into Roland Garros.  There are ways, though, of getting your tennis fix on the cheap.  During the tournament (mid-May to early June each year), evening tickets start at €12. These get you access to the outside courts from 3 p.m. on or the show courts from 5 p.m. on. You might not catch a marquee match-up, at least in whole, but you’ll still get to see the pros duke it out on the challenging clay courts.

To get to Roland Garros, take Metro Line 10 to Porte d’Auteil.  The entrance is a 10-minute walk down Avenue de la Porte d’Auteuil and Avenue de Gary Bennett.

Where to eat

Our trip to Roland Garros began with a delightful brunch in the garden of the quaint and convenient Le Roland Garros restaurant, where we gorged ourselves on charcuterie, merguez and eggs “a la coque” (soft-boiled). The restaurant unfortunately does not offer Cheapo-priced meal fare, but the idyllic atmosphere might be worth a decently priced cocktail plus charcuterie, antipasti or a dessert (each at €8 – €10).

More information

This post is part of a series sponsored by Atout France – USA, the French Tourism Development Agency in New York, which is highlighting youth travel in France. On our recent trip, we traveled from Paris to Montpellier, inspecting accommodations, activities and sights that appeal to youth travelers.

For EuroCheapo’s advice on the best places to stay in Paris, check out our list of budget hotel recommendations.

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