Planning a trip to Paris can be a pretty expensive affair, the cost of the entire trip can make any budget traveler drop their plans and make them look for a cheap alternative. Paris is a dream destination for many traveler’s, however, owing to the expensive nature of this city, planning a vacation to this gorgeous destination can take some time, especially when you are on a budget. Paris is home to some of the finest restaurants, opulent palace hotels, and all things luxury, which pretty much justifies the expensive nature of the city. Many travelers have a misconception that traveling to Paris on a budget isn’t realistic; however, we would like to break that bubble of yours. Traveling to Paris doesn’t always have to be expensive; you can easily plan a vacation in this fabulous city without breaking the bank. While it may seem a little impossible at first, with a few tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can easily save extra bucks on your vacation.
And just because you are on a budget, it doesn’t mean you will have to eat cheap or find ordinary accommodation. Even after having to be a little tight with your budget, you can manage to eat god, find decent accommodation, and discover the places for free or lesser prices. We have rounded up a list of some useful tips and tricks that will make it possible for you to plan a vacation to Paris on a budget.
Book a ticket several months ahead of your trip
While you can manage to stay in Paris for cheap, there’s no way that you can find cheap flights or trains to the city. The airfare, as well as the charges for train travel, has skyrocketed in the recent few years. Therefore, finding a cheap flight or train to the city isn’t an option. However, there’s a way to get save a few bucks on the fare charges. Instead of booking your tickets a month or two ahead of your trip, do it several months before you’re supposed to travel, especially if you’re traveling overseas. This way you can secure a good fare. Additionally, if you’re traveling from another European country, you might be able to find inexpensive flights and trains in shorter time-frames.
Try traveling during low season
Another great way to keep your expenses within the budget only is to travel during the low season. While spring or summer is the most favorable season to visit Paris, it’s also that time of the year when the city witnesses a huge flock of visitors, which results in the prices for accommodation and travel fare surging like crazy. Therefore, to save yourself from spending almost double the amount, try traveling during the low season, which also has its own charm and a fair share of advantages. Not only the fare for flights and trains is less expensive, but the accommodation is also relatively cheaper.
Make the most out of free and affordable things to see and do
Although Paris is highly renowned for being all things luxury and boasts of some of the most lavish things including several attractions, it doesn’t mean you cannot find things that are either cheap or free of cost. Despite having a very grand reputation, the city also takes pride in being accessible to all. It is home to some of the best museums and attractions that are free to visit or can be visited at affordable prices. Notre Dame Cathedral, the Banks of Seine, and Sacre Coeur are some of Paris’s most popular attractions that are free to visit. Besides that, several events are also organized throughout the city that can be attended for free or require a nominal admission fee.
Use public transportation
When it comes to exploring the city, there’s no better way to do it than using Paris’s amazing public transportation. Paris is known to have an excellent public transportation system. You can buy tickets and passes at inexpensive prices. Whether you have to go sightseeing or take a tour of the city, the best way to do it is by hopping on the bus. Another great alternative is its tram network that provides a different perspective on the city.
Be open to every kind of accommodation
There’s no lack of hotels in the city. There are plenty of budget and mid-range accommodation options that are equal parts comfy and pleasant. Unlike those fancy hotels, these budget-friendly options don’t feature all that glitz and glamour. And when it comes to picking accommodation for yourself, you should be open to every possibility. Apartment rentals make for an excellent option, which most times come with a fully furnished kitchen, and that will help you to cut down your food expense.