Visiting Paris will be a lifetime ambition of many travelers. However, the main factor that keeps some people from venturing this dream destination will be their budget. Of course, not everyone will be financially stable to afford a Parisian trip. Fortunately, you can make your wish come true if you plan things strategically. Unlike most people think, Paris is a perfect destination for all the backpackers who are on a budget. In order to help you out with this, some of the cost-effective things to see and do in the capital city of France are listed below.
Where to Stay
There are numerous budget hotels in Paris and you can find the best of the options in the 19th arrondissement. Note that this quarter is not as flashy and lively as other Parisian neighborhoods, but is the right choice to find economic lodging facility. One of the popular options here is Hotel Trema, which was renovated in 2015 to include some advanced amenities and services. This boutique hotel boasts single, double, and triple bedrooms facilities as well as a la carte restaurant.
In case you are looking for accommodation that boasts better amenities and facilities, head on to Campanile Paris 19 – La Villette, which is just five minutes down the street. You can also expect a great social atmosphere here. Apart from this, the lodging options in the 18th arrondissement are also worth considering.
Where to Eat
The cheapest eateries in Paris are the street food stalls here. However, if you wish to enjoy your food at a restaurant, Le Bouillon Chartier will be a great choice. You can enjoy a full course meal here at just around $11. Note that the restaurant will be pretty crowded. After all, it is so cheap and almost every tourist is likely to consider this option.
In case you are looking for a calm area when you can savor tasty French dishes at a reasonable price, La Pointe du Grouin, which is located at Gare du Nord, will be the right option for you.
One of the important highlights here is the unique payment system. Usually, you will order food and pay the bill while leaving at regular restaurants. Nonetheless, at La Pointe Grouin, you have to collect some tickets from a machine in exchange for cash. You will have to hand these tickets over as you order your food. Note that you can collect these coupons either when you enter the restaurant or as you order another dish or beverage. If you are looking for more luxurious, but relatively less expensive eatery in Paris, head on to the Septime restaurant where you can enjoy a finger-licking 4-course meal at around $40.
Where to Drink
You will be amazed to know that drinking cheap in Paris is quite easy when compared to many other European cities. The French capital boasts several affordable dive bars at farther north along the canal and 10th arrondissement. It is no wonder that these areas tend to gear towards younger people. Note that you will have to pay only around half of the average price for a pint at these localities when compared to other Parisian neighborhoods.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a bar that is located right at the center of the city overlooking some of the popular highlights here, the converted barge named, Rosa Bonheur located on the Seine nearby the Eiffel Tower is the way to go. Furthermore, you will get water at Parisian restaurants free of cost unless you drink only sparkling water. Backpackers usually recommend not spending bucks on the water when in Paris.
Which Museums to Explore
The capital city of France is known for its eclectic range of museums. Obviously, you would love to explore at least a few of these options on your Paris city tours. Needless to mention, you may consider the popular options here such as the Louvre, Musée d Orsay, Centre Pompidou, etc., as you design your Paris museum tours. However, to contemplate on the artworks at these outstanding museums for free, try to schedule your museum visit on the first Sunday of a month.
Note that most Parisian museums tend to open its doors to the public for free on the first Sunday of every month. However, expect a tourist pandemonium here at this time. Additionally, all the national museums here offer free entry to visitors all year round. It is to be noted that the Muséed’ArtModerne de la Ville de Paris is one of the best choices for all the art enthusiasts out there.
How to Get around Paris
Without any doubts, walking is the most affordable way to get around any city. Thankfully, most Parisian attractions are located nearby. However, never try to cross the city in a day on your foot. Otherwise, you will regret very badly the next day. Instead, try choosing one neighborhood at a time for your exploration. Another affordable means to get around the city is metro trains. However, this will not be the case if you tend to purchase metro tickets every five minutes. Rather, purchase a metro pass to get great discounts and deals on your transportation expenses.