A lot of people think of Paris as a dream vacation spot, but many tourists are shocked by how much the city has to offer for free. This list of the ten best free things to do in Paris shows you the cultural treasures, scenic spots, and historic sites that everyone can enjoy. This list includes the most beautiful public gardens and historic sites that you can enjoy in Paris for free. It’s great for students, travelers on a budget, and anyone else who wants to see the French capital without spending a lot of money.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to go to Paris. There are many free, famous sights in Paris that let people really feel like they are in the city. There is something unforgettable for everyone in Paris, whether it’s taking a walk along the Seine, admiring the detailed architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral, or taking in the lively vibe of Montmartre. There are also some less well-known gems on the list that show a different side of the city that isn’t usually seen by tourists. There are a lot of free things to do in Paris that you can enjoy without having to buy a ticket. This list is great for making a cheap city trip.
Top Ten Amazing Free Attractions You Can Go To In Paris
10. Rue Mouffetard and the Latin Quarter
Rue Mouffetard is one of Paris’s oldest market streets, nestled in the Latin Quarter. This vibrant cobblestone lane offers an authentic experience of Parisian daily life without any cost. As you stroll down its gentle slope, you are surrounded by traditional food vendors, charming cafes, and local shops that reflect the city’s deep-rooted culinary and cultural heritage.
The Latin Quarter, where Rue Mouffetard sits, has been a center of intellectual and artistic life for centuries. Nearby landmarks include the historic Sorbonne and remnants of Roman-era Paris, which give the area a unique blend of academic prestige and ancient charm. What makes this street even more special is the ambiance created by spontaneous street performances and colorful murals that adorn walls and alleyways. It feels like an open-air museum where everyday life and art coexist.
A visit here is perfect for anyone seeking a genuine look at Parisian culture beyond the typical tourist attractions. With no entrance fee or ticket required, Rue Mouffetard invites visitors to enjoy its timeless beauty, local flavors, and dynamic street life—making it one of the top free things to do in Paris.
9. The Covered Passages of Paris
The covered passages of Paris, known as “passages couverts,” offer a magical escape into the city’s 19th-century charm. These elegant glass-roofed arcades are tucked between buildings and were once the height of Parisian sophistication. Today, they remain freely accessible and are among the most unique free attractions in the city.
Among the most notable is Galerie Vivienne, near Palais Royal. Its mosaic floors, arched ceilings, and classical architecture make it a visual delight. You will find vintage bookstores, old-world boutiques, art galleries, and tearooms tucked inside. Another favorite is Passage Jouffroy, which boasts intricate ironwork and houses everything from toy shops to wax museums. These arcades provide not only beautiful architecture but also shelter from weather, making them ideal year-round.
Walking through these hidden gems feels like stepping into a different era. They are quiet, less crowded than major landmarks, and rich with Parisian elegance. Most importantly, entry is entirely free, and wandering through multiple passages makes for an enjoyable self-guided experience. These arcades reflect a more intimate side of Paris and offer an excellent blend of history, architecture, and discovery all without spending anything.
8. Carnavalet Museum
Located in the Marais district, the Carnavalet Museum is dedicated to the fascinating history of Paris. It is one of the best cultural experiences in the city that remains completely free to the public. Housed in two connected Renaissance mansions, the museum showcases everything from medieval artifacts and royal portraits to revolutionary-era documents and personal items of famous Parisians.
As you walk through its grand rooms and period settings, you can witness how Paris evolved across the centuries—from Roman Lutetia to the French Revolution and into the modern era. Original signage from old shops, antique furniture, and elaborate decorative pieces bring the city’s past to life in vivid detail. There are also exhibits on major events like the storming of the Bastille and the rise of Napoleon.
The Carnavalet is especially valuable for travelers wanting a deep, contextual understanding of the city. While other museums often charge a fee, this one opens its permanent collections at no cost, allowing visitors to enjoy Paris’s story without limitation. It is a must-see for lovers of history and culture, offering a rich, immersive experience in one of the most charming corners of Paris.
7. Père Lachaise Cemetery
Père Lachaise is not just a cemetery—it is a monumental open-air museum and one of the most visited necropolises in the world. Located in the 20th arrondissement, this vast space offers a peaceful retreat from the busy streets of Paris while presenting a fascinating mix of history, art, and culture.
The cemetery is the final resting place of many renowned figures, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, Frédéric Chopin, and Marcel Proust. Their tombs draw thousands of visitors each year, and many are adorned with statues, notes, and flowers. But beyond the famous names, the cemetery itself is a masterpiece. Winding tree-lined paths, Gothic mausoleums, and intricately carved gravestones give the area a timeless, contemplative atmosphere.
There is no fee to enter, and visitors are welcome to explore at their own pace. Whether you follow a map to see specific graves or simply wander through its tranquil paths, you are guaranteed a memorable and reflective experience. Père Lachaise is more than a cemetery—it is a window into French heritage, art, and remembrance, all offered to the public freely and respectfully.
6. Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte René-Dumont)
The Promenade Plantée, now officially known as Coulée Verte René-Dumont, is a stunning elevated garden path that stretches for nearly five kilometers through the 12th arrondissement. Built on a former railway viaduct, it offers visitors a unique chance to see Paris from above, surrounded by greenery and flowers—completely free of charge.
The walkway begins near the Opéra Bastille and winds through residential areas, parks, and modern architecture. Lined with trees, rose bushes, and well-kept lawns, the path offers a calm and scenic escape from the city’s bustle. Beneath the viaduct, the Viaduc des Arts houses local artisan workshops and galleries, adding cultural depth to the area.
The Promenade Plantée inspired New York’s High Line and is a favorite among locals and in-the-know visitors. It blends urban life with nature in a way few places in Paris do. Whether you are out for a morning jog, an afternoon stroll, or a sunset walk, the Promenade offers panoramic views, quiet benches, and peaceful spots to pause. It is an ideal example of how Paris turns even old infrastructure into something beautiful and accessible to everyone.
5. Jardin du Luxembourg
Jardin du Luxembourg, located between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter, is one of the most beloved public parks in Paris. Commissioned in the 17th century by Queen Marie de’ Medici, the garden spans over 20 hectares and offers a harmonious blend of French and English landscaping.
Entry is completely free, and once inside, visitors are greeted with tree-lined promenades, carefully trimmed lawns, fountains, and sculptures. The centerpiece of the park is the Luxembourg Palace, now home to the French Senate. In front of it lies the iconic Medici Fountain, a peaceful and shaded retreat that attracts artists and thinkers alike.
The garden is filled with activity yet retains a calm elegance. You may see children sailing miniature boats on the central pond, locals playing chess, or couples reading in the iconic green chairs that dot the grounds. Seasonal floral displays and art installations often enhance the natural beauty of the park.
This is more than a place to rest—it is where Parisian daily life unfolds. Free, safe, and scenic, the Jardin du Luxembourg represents the perfect intersection of history, leisure, and timeless French charm.
4. Atelier Brancusi and Centre Pompidou Plaza
Right beside the famous Centre Pompidou, the Atelier Brancusi offers one of the most understated yet enriching free art experiences in Paris. This carefully reconstructed studio preserves the workspace of Romanian sculptor Constantin Brancusi, one of the pioneers of modern sculpture. Entry is free, and visitors can observe his original tools, worktables, and an impressive collection of finished and unfinished sculptures, all laid out exactly as he left them.
Unlike many traditional galleries, this space gives you a real sense of the artist’s creative environment. The combination of abstract sculptures and minimalist design helps you appreciate how Brancusi’s work influenced generations of contemporary artists. The intimate setting is also a welcome change from the crowded major museums in Paris.
Once you step outside, you are instantly immersed in the lively energy of the Centre Pompidou plaza. This public space is a magnet for street performers, musicians, and living statues. The open area also provides excellent views of the Centre’s striking modern architecture, which stands in sharp contrast to the city’s classical aesthetic. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply looking for free cultural enrichment, the Atelier Brancusi and Pompidou square deliver an experience that is both inspiring and easy on the wallet.
3. The Seine River Walk and Bouquinistes
A walk along the banks of the River Seine is one of the most iconic and cost-free ways to experience the essence of Paris. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Seine’s quays offer a perfect balance between romance, history, and urban scenery. From the cobbled river paths, you can admire some of the most famous Parisian landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and Pont Neuf.
The riverbanks are lined with green metal stalls known as “bouquinistes.” These book vendors have been part of Paris’s cultural landscape since the 16th century and still sell vintage books, postcards, prints, and posters. Browsing through their collections is a relaxing way to connect with the city’s literary heritage.
The pedestrian paths along both sides of the river offer shaded benches, scenic overlooks, and occasional street performances. In some stretches, especially near Pont des Arts and Square du Vert-Galant, you will find artists painting, couples enjoying picnics, and musicians adding to the atmosphere. This area encapsulates what makes Paris feel so timeless—beauty, creativity, and history coming together in a setting that remains free and accessible to everyone.
2. Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Perched on the highest point in Paris, the Montmartre district is a treasure trove of culture, art, and panoramic views. Climbing its steep streets and staircases may take some effort, but the rewards are more than worth it—and completely free. The crown jewel of this neighborhood is the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a gleaming white monument that dominates the skyline and draws visitors from all over the world.
Entry into the basilica is free, allowing anyone to admire its magnificent interior, including the towering dome and the immense mosaic of Christ in Glory. The atmosphere inside is peaceful, and it is one of the few religious sites in Paris that remains open every day without admission charges.
Outside, the front steps of Sacré-Cœur offer sweeping views of the entire city. This is one of the most popular spots for watching sunsets over Paris. Just behind the basilica lies Place du Tertre, where local artists display their work and paint portraits for passersby. While buying art costs money, wandering among the stalls and watching painters at work is an enjoyable free activity. Montmartre captures a more bohemian spirit of Paris and remains one of the top no-cost attractions in the city.
1. Eiffel Tower Light Show and Galeries Lafayette Rooftop
Topping the list of amazing free attractions in Paris is the world-renowned Eiffel Tower light show, paired with a visit to the Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace. Every evening after dusk, the Eiffel Tower comes alive with thousands of sparkling lights for five minutes at the start of each hour. This magical display can be viewed from many public areas including Trocadéro, Champ de Mars, or along the banks of the Seine—all without spending a cent.
What makes this experience unforgettable is the atmosphere. As the tower lights twinkle against the night sky, crowds gather quietly to admire it. The moment is pure Paris—elegant, timeless, and accessible to everyone. You do not need a ticket or reservation to enjoy it. Just pick a good spot and let the magic unfold.
For another free view of the Paris skyline, head to the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann. This department store offers a terrace that looks out over major city landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and Sacré-Cœur. Open to the public at no charge, it provides one of the most spectacular and uncrowded views of the city.
Together, these two experiences give you both a ground-level and aerial glimpse of Paris at its most breathtaking—without ever reaching into your wallet.
