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How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost [2024] (+ Paris Budget Calculator)

How much is a trip to paris.

Are you planning a trip to Paris for a week or two but don’t know exactly how much a trip to Paris costs?

Of course, your daily Paris budget depends on the way you travel and the limit you set. To help you plan your trip to Paris , we have covered some average prices and set different types of budgets with different Paris trip expenses so you can get an idea of a trip to Paris’s cost.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Paris? [2024]

On average, the cost of life in Paris is 24% higher than in the rest of France.

In Paris, trip expenses depend on the people and the way they travel. We often hear that Paris is an expensive city, but this is not necessarily true.

It is possible to cut down costs if you sleep in the lesser central districts of Paris and avoid tourist areas to have your meals. Also, there are many free things to do in Paris, so you can spend wonderful days in the French capital and pay nothing to keep you busy.

On the other side, people visiting Paris want to enjoy the main attractions, get spoiled and have fun: after all, they are on holiday! And Paris knows how to treat people well, so if you opt for sleeping in a hotel Palace, having a delicious dinner in a Michelin restaurant, and shopping in the Golden Triangle, you can easily triple or quadruple your daily budget in Paris.

Below, we have collected some average daily prices to help you plan your own budget for Paris. You will also find a Paris trip budget calculator to use in € or USD at the end of the post.

Travel Insurance for Paris Cost

Most people don’t think that getting travel insurance is important, but it is highly recommended to mitigate travel risks. An insurance combination of medical and travel-related coverage is not expensive, and you will be happy to have it if you are in trouble.

SafetyWing , for example, has flexible plans from 5 days to 364 days. It also has great customer service and competitive prices, and we really think it is the best option. Below, are the prices of travel insurance with Safety Wing for one week in Paris:

• 10-39 years old: $9.24
• 40-49 years old: $14.98
• 50-59 years old: $23.52
• 60-69 years old: $31.92

Accommodation in Paris Cost

On average, the cost of hotels in Paris is 34% higher than in the rest of France.

From a bunk bed in a shared dorm to a suite in a hotel-palace in Paris , the price range is so large that it is difficult to set an average price for accommodation in Paris.

Also, it depends on the district of Paris where you decide to set your base camp – head here for the best districts to stay in Paris for different types of vacations.

To get an idea, we have grouped hotels into 4 categories. As you can see, the limit is the sky!

• Bunk bed in a hostel for one person: 18-30€ ($20-33)
• Double room in a budget hotel: €90 ($99)
• Double room in a mid-range hotel: €90–190 ($99-210)
• Double room in a top-end hotel: €190–1500 ($210-388 )

Meals in Paris Cost

Some hotel rooms come with breakfast included, while other hotels have breakfast as an option.  A breakfast in a hotel in Paris costs between 9€ to 20€ ($10-22), depending on the hotel’s category.

If you decide to eat something-something in a café, count 4.5€ to 8€ ($4.5-9), depending on what you take.

Lunch /Dinner

Serious sightseers usually opt for light, on the go meals, so they don’t spend too much eating for lunch. A sandwich in a bakery usually costs from 4€ to 6€ ($45-7), depending on the sandwich, and you can get a quick meal for less than 15€  ($17).

A proper meal in a restaurant depends on its category and the district where it is located.

Generally, mains in an average restaurant cost around 15€ ($17), while mains in an expensive, chic restaurant cost from 35€ to 55€ ($38-61).

Activities in Paris Cost

For sure, you will want to add a couple of activities or sights to your Paris travel budget. You will pay on average from 12€ to 18€ ($13.5-20) per person to visit a museum or attraction in Paris. The costs increase if you buy skip-the-line tickets or you add audio guides.

If this is your first time in Paris and you want to tick the main attractions off your bucket list, you may want to consider the Paris Museum Pass . This pass is for 2, 4, or 6 days and it cuts down the costs considerably. Head here to read our Paris Museum Pass review.

Transportation in Paris Cost

The transportation in Paris cost depends on how often you plan to use public transportation. Paris is such a walkable city that some people use the Parisian metro only for longer distances.

A single metro ticket costs 1.90€, but there are interesting daily /weekly and tourist passes that help cut down the costs. Read about the Paris Metro tickets and passes .

• Transportation from Airport to city costs 13.90€ ($15) with the RER train
• Door-to-door shared transportation (up to 8 people) costs 15€ per person ($16.5)
• Door-to-door private transportation costs around €67 ($74) the car for up to 4 people.

How Expensive is a Trip to Paris? Recap Paris Travel Costs [2024]

Below, a recap o the main Paris travel costs so you can calculate your daily budget for Paris:

• Health Travel Insurance for up to 39 years old (1 week): 8.5€ ($9.24)
• Accommodation (hotel or hostel for one person): 18-30€ ($20-33)
• Double room in a budget hotel: 90€ ($99)
• Double room in a mid-range hotel: 90–190€ ($99-210)
• Double room in a top-end hotel: 190–1500€ ($210-388 )
• Food (meals for one day, without drinks): 63€ (70$)
• Water (bottled water for one day): 1.99€ ($2.1). But tap water is free
• Local Transportation: 7.9€ ($8.7)
• Transfer Airport /City: 13.70€ to 67€ ($15-74)
• Entertainment (entrance tickets, shows, etc): 15€ to 150€ ($17-165)
• Tips and Handouts (for guides and service providers) 10€ ($11)
• Wine: 17€ ($19)

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Paris for 1 Week?

Keeping in mind the prices above, we have calculated a 1 week in Paris budget for different travel styles: budget, mid-range, and high.

Cost of Trip to Paris for Two

BUDGET (cheap): 1,500€ ($1,650) for 2 people

If you visit Paris on a budget, you will opt for a hostel in Paris or a budget double room. You will walk or use public transportation exclusively and avoid exclusive restaurants, perhaps with a cheap eat at lunch.

Visiting paid attractions may be quite limited except for perhaps one bucket list spot, and you will try to combine paid attractions with city walks or free museums and activities.

MID-RANGE: 2,400€ ($2,750) for 2 people

At this price point, you’ll be able to visit most attractions you would like to see, though perhaps not every single one, splurge on a guided tour, and eat at restaurants more comfortably.

Depending on whether you’re traveling in low or high season, you may struggle to find comfortable lodging on a mid-range budget in Paris, and you may need to sacrifice a bit on location. Booking in advance, especially during the high season, will be essential!

When traveling on a mid-range budget, prioritization will be essential to balance the Paris trip expenses. If you have your heart set on a particular bucket list experience in Paris, you’ll likely need to cut expenses elsewhere to make it work.

HIGH (luxury): – – –

How much does it cost to go to Paris for luxury travelers? When it comes to luxury travel, the sky is the limit in a city like Paris.

If you have that kind of budget for Paris, use private transportation from the airport to the hotel , choose your favorite hotel with Eiffel Tower view , eat in the city’s best restaurants and book private guides for your bucket list of museums in Paris.

And if you book all these through this humble blog, you will contribute to our stock of French wine, so cheers!

We hope that you found this article useful to estimate your Paris budget. If you want to calculate your Paris trip budget for more or fewer days than a week, you can use our Paris trip budget calculator for free.

Click here to read more Paris Tips

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Paris Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Paris?

How much does a weekend trip to paris cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Paris cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Paris cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Paris

When it comes to exploring Paris, travelers typically find themselves budgeting between $94 and $728 per day for solo adventures and $188 to $1,456 if you're traveling as a couple. Now, that's a broad range, but the typical trip, on average, is $253 (€232) per person per day. This average cost covers sightseeing, accommodation, meals, and transportation, all from our large repository of travel expenses from previous visitors. Keep in mind, though, your personal spending might vary a bit based on your own level of luxury, travel style, and chosen activities. However, if you're visiting the highlights with some savvy planning, chances are your spending will vibe right around this average cost. For more details, check out the breakdown of expenses by category, plus the breakdown on accommodation and activity prices below.

For budget travelers in Paris, planning for around $94 (€86) per day should cover essentials such as accommodations in hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and engaging in various activities. If you're a mid-range traveler, setting aside around $253 (€232) per day would allow for more comfortable stays in typical hotels, dining at regular restaurants, and exploring a diverse range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should consider a daily budget of approximately $728 (€668) to accommodate higher-end hotel stays, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in more exclusive private tour options. It's important to note that these price ranges are derived from our extensive travel cost data for Paris, which is based on valuable insights from other travelers as well as hotel and tour data provided by travel companies. For a more detailed breakdown of travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Paris .

On average, travelers spend around $759 per person during a three-day trip to Paris. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as Paris offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to Paris cost?

With five days in Paris, you can expect to spend about $1,265 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Paris cost?

Most visitors spend between $657 and $5,095 for a one week trip to Paris, with the average being $1,770 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Paris. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Paris

With more than 40 hostels in Paris, the average price is $37 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $17 and the most expensive is $153. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Paris here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Paris.

• $23 for a dorm bed at St Christopher's Inn Canal in Paris more details
• $42 for a dorm bed at FIAP Paris in Paris more details
• $41 for a dorm bed at Le Regent Montmartre by Hiphophostels in Paris more details

Hotel Prices in Paris

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the Paris, the average price for a hotel room is $126 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Paris here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Maison Armance

La chambre du marais.

Should you do a tour in Paris?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and Paris has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from $5 for the Paris (Montmartre) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour to $493 for the Paris: Normandy Private Tour Giverny - Honfleur - Etretat .

• Paris in a Day - Private Experience Viator $ 297
• Paris in a Day - Private Experience: $297
• Paris - Historic City Center Walking Tour: $146
• Guided Electric Scooter Tour of Paris: $74
• Raconteur Paris Walking Tour: Discover the City of Love: $3.41
• Bois de Vincennes tour - Paris tour by Segway: $67
• Orangerie Museum Paris Exclusive Tour Reserved Entry Included: $121
• Orangerie Museum Tour Semi Private 5ppl Max With Reserved Entry: $121
• Louvre Museum Private 2-h Tour on Italian Art and masterpieces: $108

More for Paris

If you're planning a trip to Paris, France, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost? (2024 Budget Breakdown)

Last Updated on 10th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Paris. Land of the Eiffel Tower, buttery croissants, and one of the most gorgeous cities in the world. If you have a trip to Europe planned, then no doubt Paris is close to the top of your list. Unfortunately, Paris is also one of the most expensive places to visit on the continent. And so, if you’re wondering ‘how much does a trip to Paris cost?’ (including tips on how to save money), then this is the post for you.

This blog post does not take into account the fact that Paris will host the Olympics and Paralympics this year and will be exceptionally busy from mid-July to mid-September, so you should not take the prices below for granted during that period, especially for accommodation and transport.

My name is Sophie and I have lived in Paris for many years, and written about it for even longer. I’m even married to a local! In this guide, I’ll break down the different things you need to budget for when planning a trip to the city, as well as some of the areas where you can save money in Paris .

The currency of France is the Euro (€) and so this is the currency that we’ll be using for this article. My top money recommendation for Paris would be to carry a card and cash on you at all times as some places only take card payments, while others will only accept cash if your payment is under a certain amount (i.e. €10).

Getting to Paris

Cost of accommodation in paris, where to stay in paris, cost of eating and drinking in paris, cost of getting around paris, cost of activities and entertainment in paris, total budget for a trip to paris (average daily cost).

Getting to Paris is probably the part of your budget that will vary the most depending on where you’re coming from. I’m currently mainly based in London and so opt to take the Eurostar. If you want to get the best Eurostar rates, then you should book at least two to three months in advance. You should also avoid peak times if possible (i.e. Friday evening and Sunday evening).

Paris is also served by train connections from all over mainland Europe, including Amsterdam, Brussels, and other French cities. I would always recommend booking train tickets at least a month ahead of your trip as tickets tend to get more and more expensive as the date of your planned trip gets closer.

If you’re planning to visit Paris by plane, then there are five airports: Charles de Gaulle, Orly, Beauvais, Vatry and Le Bourget airport. However, I would only fly into Charles de Gaulle or Orly as these are the only two which are a) close to Paris and b) have good public transportation.

If you fly into Charles de Gaulle (often abbreviated to CDG for short) or Orly, then there are fixed taxi prices into the city centre that you can take advantage of (be sure that your taxi driver charges the correct rate and not more- this is a scam that almost happened to me one time when going home to Paris).

The cheapest times to fly into Paris tend to be during the shoulder and low season. The most expensive months to travel typically are from the end of May through to the end of August. If you are planning a trip several months ahead of time, set up a price alert for flights to Paris.

One aspect of planning a trip to Paris that can be particularly pricey is accommodation. If you’ve seen the news recently, then you’ll know that bedbugs are unfortunately quite common in the city and so I would never skimp on accommodation and always check reviews thoroughly before booking anywhere.

As of 2024, you should also note that the Paris tourist tax on overnight accommodation (between €0.65 and €14.95 per adult per night depending on the accommodation you choose) should also be factored into your accommodation budget.

With this being said, solid budget hostels and hotels can be found (though, of course, they will be pricier than some of the less desirable budget hostels). For a good hostel bed in Paris, you’ll be looking at around €50 per night.

Mid-range hotels tend to cost around €150-€200, meaning that you can expect to spend around €100 per person by night when splitting. Luxury five-star hotels tend to be much more expensive than somewhere like London and you can expect to pay anything from €350 – €700 per night (and even more during peak season). Here are some of our hotel suggestions for the city:

Mandarin Oriental: Located along rue Saint-Honoré, which is famous for its many shops, this five-star luxurious accommodation is home to highlights like a marble lobby and beautiful courtyard. Check availability and rates here!

Shangri-La:  If you’re looking to  seriously  splurge on a romantic stay during your time in the city, then this hotel faces the Eiffel Tower, is home to a 2 Michelin star restaurant and spa facilities. Check availability and rates here!

Luxury experience: The Hoxton : For those who are looking for the ultimate luxury experience when staying in Paris, The Hoxton has it all. Charm and several beautiful communal guest spaces including a stunning bar and restaurant, other highlights of the hotel include breakfast options, WiFi, and room service.  Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range boutique stay: Hôtel Fabric : As you might gather from its name, Hôtel Fabric is set against the backdrop of a former textile factory and simply oozes charm. Beautiful and with friendly staff, this four-star hotel is welcoming and is located just a fifteen-minute walk away from Le Marais area of the city.  Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: Hotel Petit Paris:  Not far from the Luxembourg Gardens and close to the Latin Quarter of the city, this boutique hotel is in the perfect position for exploring Paris on foot. From here, it’s easy to explore top Parisian attractions such as the Paris Pantheon, as well as the Saint Germain des Prés area of the city. Check availability and rates here!

Affordable chic: Hôtel Chopin : Located within one of the covered passages of Paris, in the 9th arrondissement , and close to all the action (the nearby Grands Boulevards are full of bars and restaurants), Hôtel Chopin is a small hotel offering affordable rooms. Amenities include a restaurant and spa on site. Check prices and availability here.

Budget hostel: Generator Hostel : Those in search of an affordable option, Paris has a number of hostels which are fairly conveniently located. This hostel is situated close to the lively area of Canal Saint Martin and offers mixed-sex and female-only dorms. Check prices and availability here.

This is a part of your budget which you can be pretty flexible with, especially considering how many cheap eats and street food places there are in the city. Paris is also full of grocery stores and so, if you book a self-catered accommodation, then you can save plenty of money by preparing your own meals. For more information, check out our guide to supermarkets in France .

Breakfast in Paris: To be honest, a typical French breakfast is a pretty light affair, comprising of a pastry together with a coffee. Pastries will set you back anything from €1 (when bought from the supermarket and not the best quality) to €2 (a typical boulangerie produces great vienoisseries and so opt to buy your breakfast at a French bakery when possible).

Brunch/ lunch in Paris: Over the past decade or so, getting a brunch in Paris has become pretty popular, with trendy spots serving up everything from traditional English breakfasts to pancake stacks popping up all over the city. A brunch formula (including drinks) will typically cost €30.

Lunch in Paris is often regarded to be the most important meal of the day, and many French people enjoy brasserie lunches. A main course at a traditional brasserie will cost you around €25. One way in which you can save money is by ordering free tap water to the table by asking for a ‘carafe’.

Another way you could save money is by opting to get a takeaway sandwich or wrap. This will usually cost you around €7-€10. I absolutely love getting takeaway falafel from L’As du Fallafel for a quick and easy lunch. Another popular option is to buy a sandwich at a bakery for a cost of around €7.

Dinner in Paris: Much like lunch, you can spend money how you like when it comes to dinner options. There’s everything available from going to the grocery store to dining out in a Michelin star fine dining restaurant.

If you want to go for dinner for two people and get a decent bottle of wine (I am talking about a mid-range establishment where you get a starter and main dish), then you’re looking at around €120- (€10 starter, €20 main, and €20 for half a bottle of wine).

Coffee on a terrace: Good coffee isn’t hard to come by, but you won’t find it by heading to a traditional café with a people watching terrace. Specialty coffee will cost you around €6 (check here for our guide to the best cafes in Paris ). If you want to go to a people watching terrace, then you can expect to spend around €2.50 for an espresso.

Going to a wine or cocktail bar: Wine is much cheaper in France than even in other parts of Europe and a good glass of wine these days will cost you around €7-€8. A cocktail will set you back €12-€15 depending on the establishment. If you want to find cheaper drinks, then head to a bar with a Happy Hour.

Paris has one of the best public transportation systems in the world and it should be your first go-to when getting around the city. Although I prefer to walk as much as possible (after all, Paris is like a huge open museum), if you’re rushing to get to a reservation or exhibition, then taking the metro or the bus is an excellent option.

Bus and metro tickets within Paris cost exactly the same price. This is also the case for the RER (regional train) within the city limits of Paris. However, do watch out as the typically metro tickets will let you board the regional train but aren’t actually valid outside of the city limits and you could end up with a fine.

The best priced option is to purchase an Easy Navigo Pass at a metro station office and then top it up with a ‘carnet’. A pack of 10 rides currently costs €16.90, meaning that each trip will only cost €1.69. In 2024, the price of metro tickets is set to go up during the Olympics and will cost €4.

Unfortunately, you can’t transfer between the bus and metro with the same ticket and this will cost you the price of a new one. Taking the funicular in Montmartre also counts as a single use ticket.

The first thing you should note is that there are actually dozens upon dozens of free things to do in Paris , and if you’re travelling on a budget this is one area where you can save plenty of cash, particularly if you opt to skip out on pricier attractions such as The Louvre or going up The Eiffel Tower.

Most Paris museums are priced between €10 and €20 and, if you’re planning on visiting enough of them during your stay, then you could buy the Paris Museum Pass . To work out if it will save you money, add up the cost of all of the attractions you want to visit and see which option would be cheaper.

There are some things that I totally recommend doing and that are definitely worth spending the money on. This includes going on a Seine River cruise ( the cheaper ones start at around €15 ) and visiting the Musée d’Orsay. For more information on what to plan in advance, check out our guide on what to book in advance in Paris .

• Hotel €100 (hotel room split in two)
• Food €90 (breakfast €7, lunch €20, dinner €50, coffee/ drinks €13)
• Transportation €16.90 (10 metro rides)
• Activities €40

Enjoyed reading this guide on how much a trip to Paris costs? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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Best Paris Travel Budget Calculator (2024)

Travelling Thirties contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Planning a trip to Paris can be an exciting yet intimidating task, especially when calculating the overall travel budget.

As someone who has personally explored this enchanting city, I understand the importance of estimating costs accurately to maximize your experience.

From accommodations and transportation to meals and attractions, keeping track of expenses can help you avoid unforeseen surprises and focus on enjoying the city of love.

One tool that can significantly assist in this process is a Paris Travel Budget Calculator.

This calculator provides a simple and efficient way to estimate your daily expenses in Paris, considering elements like accommodation, food, transportation, and various attractions.

Utilizing a Paris Travel Budget Calculator can help you plan your trip more effectively.

By understanding the potential costs, you can prioritize the city’s must-see attractions and hidden gems, allowing you to craft the perfect Parisian experience tailored to your unique interests and preferences.

Ultimately, this practical tool may open doors to unexpected discoveries and create even more unforgettable memories in the city of lights.

Table of Contents

How to Use the Calculator

Determine the type of accommodations you desire, whether budget-friendly hostels, mid-range hotels, or luxurious resorts.

Consider how much you’re willing to spend on meals – are you a foodie searching for gourmet experiences, or do you prefer casual dining or grabbing meals on the go?

Your entertainment options, transportation , and sightseeing choices will also significantly affect your budget.

Now that you know your travel preferences clearly, you can start utilizing the Paris Travel Budget Calculator.

Begin by entering the number of days you plan to spend in Paris. This will set the baseline for your calculations.

Next, input estimated travel insurance costs and preferred accommodations , aiming for an average nightly rate.

This information can easily be found by browsing  hotel booking websites .

For meals, determine the average daily cost based on your dining preferences. Similarly, include expenses for transportation within the city.

Lastly, don’t forget to factor in the anticipated costs for various attractions and experiences.

Paris is rich in culture and history, so be sure to allocate funds for museum visits , guided tours , or must-see landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or Louvre.

Once you’ve entered all relevant information, the Paris Travel Budget Calculator will estimate your total expenses for the trip compared to your travel budget.

With this information in hand, you can tailor your plans to align with your financial goals and ensure an enjoyable and budget-conscious journey to the City of Light.

Paris Travel Budget Calculator

How to plan your paris travel budget.

Planning your travel budget for a Paris getaway doesn’t need to be daunting!

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you estimate your travel costs and ensure you make the most of your vacation.

1. Big Ticket Items

Start with the big ticket items. This includes your round-trip airfare and accommodation costs.

Be sure to consider the season as prices fluctuate throughout the year, with peak prices often seen during the summer, Christmas , and New Year .

LOOKING TO SAVE $$ ON FLIGHTS?

Check out FareDrop!

Created by full-time travellers Kara and Nate, FareDrop finds deals that save you up to 80% off your flight. Simply enter your home airport and where your dream destinations and you will receive alerts to the app when a cheap flight is available – this includes business class flights too!

2. Daily Expenses

Next, plan out your daily expenses. This should include food, drinks, transport, and entertainment.

Paris has an incredible culinary scene , from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming sidewalk cafes, so plan your food budget according to your dining preferences.

Don’t forget to include costs for sightseeing, like entry fees for museums and attractions.

Also, consider adding a daily budget for unexpected expenses, as having a buffer is always wise.

Add in costs for any day trips or tours you want. Paris is well situated for a number of great day trips, including Versailles , Mont Saint-Michel, and the Champagne region .

3. Travel Insurance

Account for your travel insurance – an essential for any trip – and any shopping or souvenirs you plan to return. Once you’ve accounted for all these categories, you’ll have a rough estimate of your travel budget.

Compare Travel Insurance Policies Here

4. Unexpected Costs

Remember to keep a little flexibility in your budget for unexpected opportunities. After all, you might stumble upon a fantastic local restaurant or find the perfect souvenir at a Parisian market !

How To Save for Your Paris Vacation

• Start by creating a dedicated “Paris Vacation” savings account. Regularly contribute a fixed amount to this account – consistency is key when saving for a specific goal. You might be surprised how quickly these regular contributions can add up over several months.
• Cutting back on non-essential expenses is another effective way to save money. Perhaps you can skip the daily coffee shop visit and brew your coffee at home, or opt for a night in with a movie instead of a costly night out. Small changes to your daily routine can result in significant savings over time.
• Consider picking up a side gig or freelancing to supplement your income. Online platforms offer many opportunities, from graphic design and content writing to pet sitting or selling handmade crafts.
• Planning ahead can also help you save on the trip itself. Booking your flights and accommodation well in advance often results in lower prices. Also, watch for discounted entry fees for attractions or tour packages . Remember, every penny saved is a penny more you can enjoy spending in Paris.

How to Travel Paris on a Budget

Accommodations.

Start by seeking out affordable accommodations. Consider options beyond hotels, such as budget hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rental properties. Sites like VRBO can often provide budget-friendly choices in great locations.

Transportations

Transportation in Paris is also key to saving money.

The city’s public transport system is comprehensive and efficient. Take advantage of the Paris Metro, buses, and the Vélib’ bike-sharing program to get around affordably.

If you plan to visit many sites, consider investing in a Paris Visite travel card for unlimited travel within certain zones.

Eating in Paris can be done on a budget while still enjoying the culinary delights the city is famous for.

Skip the expensive tourist-trap restaurants and opt for local bakeries, street food like crêpes, or supermarket delicacies that you can enjoy in one of Paris’s beautiful parks.

Attractions

When it comes to attractions, many of Paris’s iconic sites such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, or the picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre are free to visit.

Many museums, including the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month, while the Paris Museum Pass can offer substantial savings if you’re planning to visit many paid sites.

Remember, part of the magic of Paris lies in its enchanting streets, bustling markets, and riverside ambience.

Take time to wander and explore without a set destination in mind. After all, the best things in Paris – like the sight of the Eiffel Tower lighting up the night or the charm of a quiet cobblestone street – are absolutely free!

FAQs: Paris Vacation Budget Calculator

How much would an average trip to paris cost.

The cost of a trip to Paris can vary significantly based on factors like travel season, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. However, as a rough estimate, expect to budget around $200-$300 per day, which includes accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and local transportation. Thus, a week-long trip might cost between $1,400 and $2,100 per person.

How Much Money Would You Need for 3 Days in Paris?

For a three-day trip to Paris , considering moderate accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and local transportation, you should budget approximately $600-$900. However, costs can vary greatly based on individual preferences and choices. Plan ahead for a more accurate estimate, taking into account current prices and your personal travel style.

How do I Calculate My Travel Budget?

To calculate your travel budget, list all potential costs: round trip airfare, accommodation, daily meals, transportation, attractions, and extra spending money. Research current prices for each. Don’t forget travel insurance and potential emergency expenses. Sum these costs to determine your overall budget. Break this down by day for a daily budget. Adjust as necessary based on your overall financial comfort level.

Wrap Up: Paris Trip Planner

Travelling to the awe-inspiring city of Paris should be an adventure that leaves you with unforgettable memories, not financial worries.

My Paris Travel Budget Calculator is designed to help you prepare and budget effectively, reducing stress and enhancing your overall travel experience.

Remember, budgeting doesn’t mean skimping on experiences, but rather making smart choices that allow you to enjoy all that Paris has to offer.

Use my calculator to take control of your vacation finances and then, all you’ll have left to do is pack your bags, hop on a plane, and say “Bonjour” to Paris!

For a complete guide on visiting Paris make sure you check out the Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about visiting Paris from the best neighbourhoods to stay, to the best hotels, places to eat and how to get around.

As well as things to do in Paris and my best tips for your first time in Paris.

Recent Posts:

♦  15+ Best Eiffel Tower Tours + Insider Tips ♦  The Ultimate Guide for your first solo trip to Paris ♦  How to spend one day in Paris: The best 24 hour Paris Itinerary ♦  How to spend 3 days in Paris: The Perfect Paris Itinerary ♦  Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower view ♦  Paris at Night Time: How to Spend a Perfect Evening in Paris ♦  Language in Paris: Everything you need to know ♦  How many steps in the Eiffel tower? A guide to climbing the Eiffel Tower ♦  Where is Paris? A guide to the Latitude of Paris ♦  Paris Pronunciation Guide: How to properly Pronounce Paris ♦  Visiting Disneyland Paris on a Solo Trip: Is it worth it?

I'm Fiona, the Australian blogger behind Travelling Thirties. Travel has always been my passion since 2007. I created this site to help inspire you to travel the world. In 2010 I moved from Australia to Scotland with $500 and a one way ticket, no one thought I'd last 5 minutes but I lasted 5 years. I share everything from one day itineraries to travel tips and tricks from Australia to Europe that will inspire you to get out and travel. Some of my favourite countries I have been to are France, Finland, Denmark, and England.

Travel Expertise: Europe Travel, France Travel, Christmas Markets, travel planning, itineraries and travel tips

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Your Ultimate Paris Trip Cost Guide

• By Jacqueline Parisi
• April 29, 2024

Maybe you’ve booked a trip to Paris and are trying to figure out how to budget accordingly, or you’re just thinking about whether you can even swing a trip without breaking the bank. Whatever the case, we’ve got you covered with a full guide to Paris trip costs, including flights, hotels, food, transportation, nightlife, sightseeing, shopping, and more.

It goes without saying that actual costs will vary greatly depending on your tastes, preferences, and priorities, but this should give you a base from which to work off of. Seasonality also matters big time when it comes to Paris trip costs, as do major events, like this year’s Paris Olympics . But for the purposes of this guide, we estimated prices — which are exactly that, just estimates — based on an early-fall trip booked six months out, after the Olympic chaos has subsided.

Budgeting may not be the most fun part of travel planning, but future you will thank you. Your wallet will, too.

How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost?

The actual costs will vary by person depending on their budget and travel style — and we dive into more travel budget nuances below — but let’s say you’re flying to Paris from the East coast, staying at a mid-range hotel close to the city center, taking public transportation around the city, checking the major museums and monuments off your list, eating at bistros, maybe going out a couple of nights, and hoping to fit a few souvenirs in your luggage. Here’s what your Paris budget would look like for the week-long trip:

• Transportation: $600
• Hotel room: $2800
• Transportation: $50
• Sightseeing: $150
• Shopping: $300
• Nightlife: $75

Total cost: $4375 (but remember, if you’re not a solo traveler, it’ll be less since you’ll be splitting the cost of the hotel room)

What do Flights to Paris Cost?

Traveling from europe.

Taking a quick flight from another European city to Paris? You can score round-trip flights to and from Charles de Gaulle for as little as $65 from London, while other cities farther away (think Barcelona, Athens, and Rome) will run you between $80 and $130 round-trip.

Traveling from the United States

If you’re coming from an East Coast city like New York or Boston, you can probably find flights for as low as $400, but with a fair amount of restrictions (like no carry-on luggage). The more likely scenario is that you’ll have to dish out $600 round-trip, give or take depending on seasonality.

Rates are comparable, if not a bit higher, from Midwestern cities like Chicago. But from the West Cost, even with the best deals, you’ll probably have to pay around $1000 for your tickets.

When are Flights Cheapest?

According to flight algorithm tools like Sky Scanner and Hopper, the cheapest month to fly to Paris is January — luckily there are plenty of things to do in winter in Paris for those intrigued by a New Year’s trip.

Accommodation Budget in Paris with Hotel Options

Luxury trip for 2.

If you’re looking for luxury hotel rooms and a 5-star, top-tier experience, it’ll run you $1500 – $2000 per night for a double room ($10,500 – $14,000 for a 7-night, one-week trip), with an additional cost if you tack on the hotel breakfast.

Luxury hotel options:

• Four Seasons Hotel George V
• Saint James Paris
• Shangri-La Paris
• The Peninsula Paris
• Hotel Plaza Athénée

Mid-Range Trip for 2

Middle-of-the-road hotel prices (i.e. still well-appointed and comfortable but not in the thousands per night) span $200 – $400 per night for a total cost between $1,400 – $2800 for 7 nights. These are typically 4-star properties.

Mid-range hotel options:

• Hotel Raphael
• Hotel Splendid Etoile
• Le Walt Hotel
• Hôtel Maison Fl

Budget Trip for 2

A budget hotel doesn’t have to cramp your travel style — many of them are centrally located near the city’s sightseeing gems. Estimated costs for 3-star properties are between $130 and $150/night (around $1000 for the week).

Budget hotel options:

• Hotel Eiffel Rive Gauche
• Ibis Paris Tour Eiffel
• Hotel Eiffel Trocadero
• Jardins d’Eiffel
• Caron de Beauchmarais

If you find that hotels in Paris cost more than what you’re willing to shell out, then booking an Airbnb is a great way to visit Paris on a budget, especially if your travel style leans homier. There are Airbnbs all over Paris to accommodate all budgets, but the average cost per night is about $130. It will be a little cheaper if you want to book an individual room ($30 – $70 per night), and more for a private apartment ($50 – $200 per night). You can check out our guide to Paris Airbnbs to find a fit for your personal Paris budget, but overall an Airbnb can cost anywhere between $300 and $2400 for a week. But since larger Airbnbs can typically be shared among a few friends, a higher sticker price doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be paying that much more.

Not in a place to spend too much money on hotels? Pas de problème . Remember, Paris has its fair share of students studying abroad, so you’ll have many hostels to choose from that are suitable for a short trip or week-long adventure. The per night cost varies from $35-$60 per night depending on whether you’re interested in a single or shared room, but all-in you’ll only pay $245 – $420 for the week, which isn’t too shabby for a budget trip to Paris.

Hostel options:

• St. Christopher’s Inn Paris Gare du Nord
• 3 Ducks Boutique Hostel & Bar
• Village Montmartre

Food Budget in Paris

Whether or not you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, there’s no denying the fact that dining plays a central role in any Paris experience on any budget.

Costs will vary depending on several factors:

• Whether or not your hotel provides breakfast (most hotels offer it, but you’ll save money if you skip it… more on that below)
• Whether you’re prioritizing high-end dining experiences
• Whether you’re a go-go-go traveler and just want to pick up something quick for lunch, or prefer to sit down at a restaurant for a proper, leisurely meal

With all that in mind, here’s what you need to know:

• Breakfast will probably run you in the range of €8 – €10 for a croissant, fruit, maybe a yogurt, and coffee at a café. But you can get a croissant and a coffee for about €3 at your local bakery.
• An average meal ( lunch or dinner )at a mid-range restaurant can cost anywhere from €20 – €30 depending on whether it’s prix fixe (set menu). These are the best deals to take advantage of when eating out in Paris, as they usually come with three courses and are cheaper than ordering à la carte.
• Paris has great street food and lower budget meal options for those looking to not spend too much money. You can easily pick up a hefty sandwich from a boulangerie for lunch, a savory crêpe from a crêperie, or a falafel, for between €5 and €10.

All in, you should budget between €40 – €50 for three mid-range meals a day.

If you’re in the mood to splurge on one Michelin-starred meal at a high-end restaurant, be prepared to spend €60 on the low end (and likely for lunch) and anywhere from €100 – €400 for dinner.

Transportation Budget in Paris

No Paris budget would be complete without considering public transportation. Even if you’re within walking distance from the city center with the most popular tourist destinations, odds are you’ll have to hop on the Paris Mètro at least a handful of times. Here’s what you need to know:

• Getting to and from Charles de Gaulle: RER B (€11.80) or Roissy Bus (€16.60). A taxi will cost between €50 and €60. If you decide to take an Uber, it’ll run you €50 – €60 each way.
• One-way ticket (Metro, bus, or RER within Paris): €2.15
• 10-ticket pass on Navigo Easy Booklet: €17.35

All-in, if you take the RER B to and from the airport and buy the 10-ticket Navigo pass during your week trip to Paris, it’ll add around €40 to your Paris costs.

Uber is also an option within the city — a 15-minute ride should cost you between €12 – €20, depending on the time of day and distance. But during rush hour, it’s often best to just hop on the Métro to save time (and money).

Nightlife Budget in Paris

If you’re interested in sampling the robust nightlife scene in Paris, you’ll likely find yourself in Le Marais, Pigalle, Belleville, or Bastille neighborhoods. Estimated costs vary depending on how frequently you’re hoping to go out and what tier of establishments are up your alley.

Here’s how to think about nightlife budget:

• For clubbing , the entry fee will run you €10 – €20, then you’ll pay per drink inside.
• Bars run the gamut price-wise. If you’re looking to save money, you can certainly find some budget-friendly hidden gems — Le Requin Chagrin in the Latin Quarter has a 12-beer tasting “platter” for €12, Le Teddy’s Bar right around the corner has an impressively long happy hour from 3:30 – 8pm, and La Cave de l’Entracte in Montmartre has cocktails for just €5 and beers on tap from €4 – €6. An ordinary café-bar will only charge you about €5 – €7 for a glass of wine, but a trendy cocktail bar will probably cost you around €14 per drink. For an upscale bar experience — think Bar Hemingway at The Ritz — it’ll set you back at least €35 a cocktail… but then again, you’re also paying for the experience.

Sightseeing Budget in Paris

With such a rich history, Paris offers no shortage of museums to visit, churches to marvel at, river cruises to take, and neighborhoods to wander through. How much you end up doing and seeing depends on how jam-packed you want your days to be. Below, you’ll find the sightseeing heavy hitters, and how much you should budget to see them.

Of the many museums in Paris (over 130!), the ones below are the most popular. The price listed is for general admission, but keep in mind that most offer free admission for those under 18, and either free or reduced admission for EU residents between the ages of 18-25. You’ll also get in for free at most museums if you’re a job seeker or holder of a valid Pass éducation.

• Louvre Museum: €22
• Musée d’Orsay: €16 (€14 if purchased at the museum), free admission first Sunday of every month
• Musée de l’Orangerie: €12.50, free admission first Sunday of each month

Big museum buff? It may be worth purchasing the Paris museum pass , which will pay for itself between the fourth and sixth visit.

• 2-day pass: €62
• 4-day pass: €77
• 6-day pass: €93

Among the many museums and monuments included are: the Louvre Museum, Centre Pompidou, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, Quai Branly, Musée Picasso, Musée Rodin, Panthéon, Musée de l’Armée Tombeau de Napoleon, Musée de l’Histoire de l’Immigration, l’Arc de Triomphe, and even Versailles and the chateaux of the Loire Valley if you’re interested in a day trip or amazing weekend getaway.

Other Monuments

• Sainte-Chapelle : €13 This royal chapel on Île de la Cité was the former home of the kings of France until the 14th century. Come for the over 1,000 stained glass windows, and stay to marvel at the soaring Gothic architecture.
• Catacombs of Paris : €29 Descend into the depths of Paris to see the catacombs, which date back to 1786 and house more than 6 million remains. There’s also some more recent history to discover here: during World War II, the Catacombs served as an underground escape route and shelter from the Nazis.
• Eiffel tower : €18.80 for elevator access to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, €29.40 for access to the top. This Unesco World Heritage site needs no introduction — if you’re a first (or second, or third)-time visitor to Paris, the Eiffel tower is a must-visit — if not for the soaring views, then at least for un picnic on the nearby Champ de Mars.
• Panthéon : €13 The Panthéon, which was originally built as a church but eventually secularized during the 1789 French Revolution, is best known as the final resting place of Voltaire, Rousseau, Marie Curie, Émile Zola, Victor Hugo, Louis Braille, and, as of 2021, Josephine Baker. Pro tip: If you’re also interested in seeing the Basilique Saint-Denis, you can purchase a combined ticket for €19.
• Arc de Triomphe : €16, free admission the first Sunday of January, February, March, and November. Entirely free in December.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: Since the devastating fire on the evening of April 15, 2019, the Notre Dame Cathedral has been undergoing extensive renovation work. Select areas are slowly re-opening to tourists — and many offer free entry. But before making your way to the city center for a visit, it’s worth checking the official website for updates.

River Cruises

Interested in seeing Paris from a different vantage point? There are no shortage of river cruises that go up and down the Seine river.

• Batobus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing cruise : $24.90 per person
• Vedettes de Paris : $22 per person
• Bateaux Mouches : $16.24 per person

Shopping Budget in Paris

For luxury goods.

Major metropolitan cities like Paris offer almost unlimited access to big luxury brands. And while the Champs-Élysées may be THE shopping street that comes to mind, it’s definitely not the only one. In fact, many would advise you skip it entirely and instead make a beeline for Avenue Montaigne or Rue Du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, or Paris’s major department stores, like the Galeries Lafayettes and Le Bon Marché.

If you want to score some luxury goods during your trip to Paris, you’ll be surprised to find that they often cost much less than they do stateside. The Mon Tresor Brown Leather Mini Bag from Fendi is the perfect example. In the U.S., it comes in at a grand total of over $2,000 when you combine the retail price and the sales tax. But in Paris, it comes in at just under $1,500 (give or take depending on the exchange rate).

Chanel and Hermès are two other examples – when you compare prices, you’ll find that these made-in-France brands are cheaper to buy in Paris than in the United States.

For Boutique Brands

The historic Marais district in central Paris is a go-to for small boutiques — we recommend sticking to rue des Frances Bourgeois, rue Vieille du Temple, rue de Turenne, and rue des Francs Bourgeois. You’ll also find charming independent boutiques by the Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th arrondissement (near the République or Louis Blanc metro stations). How much to budget varies by person depending on how much room you have in your luggage and what you’re looking for — but be prepared to reach deep into your wallet if any of the clothing, accessories, or homeware catches your eye. But remember, window shopping is always free!

For Vintage Clothing

To find decently-priced secondhand clothing during your trip to Paris, head to Untucked Friperie in the 12th arrondissement. This small shop sells luxury brands at three fixed prices: €25, €45, or €65. For more affordable finds, we recommend Alatone — there’s a location in the 1st and 2nd arrondissement. Also worth checking out: Chine Machine in Montmartre, Free’P’Star near Centre Pompidou, or any of the stores clustered around the Jacques Bonsergent Métro station along line 5 in the 10th arrondissement.

For Antiques

Flea markets — or les puces — are a great way to find one-of-a-kind items in Paris on a budget…if you know where to look. The most famous one, Marché aux Puces St-Ouen de Clignancourt, is right outside the péripherique (Paris’s outer border) and receives up to 200,000 visitors each weekend interested in scouring the used clothing, antique wears, and funky tchotchkes. If you do decide to go, keep your personal belongings close and beware of pickpockets!

Paris Budget FAQs

Is paris expensive to visit.

A trip to Paris can be expensive at certain peak times of year (like the early summer months). And of course, the decision of what caliber hotel room you’re looking for and where in the city you want to be located can drive up prices, as can high-end meals and shopping. But it doesn’t have to break the bank… more on that below.

How can I save money during my trip to Paris?

If your travel budget is tight, you can still experience Paris. There are good hotels on the budget-friendly side, wallet-friendly prix fixe menus at corner bistros, and no shortage of free things to do . Here’s a shortlist of our favorite no-cost activities to help you save money:

• Stroll through the Tuileries or Luxembourg gardens
• Walk across the infamous bridges spanning the river Seine
• Start at the Arc de Triomphe and slowly make your way down the Champs-Elysées for some window shopping
• Wander the Marais
• Pop into bookstores in Saint-Germain-des-Près
• Amble through Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Have lunch in Place des Vosges
• Bring a blanket to read in the Champ de Mars, with a view of the Eiffel Tower

Also, even if you don’t want to splurge on on a ticket to go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe or Eiffel Tower, you can still get really close!

What do you spend the most on in Paris?

When you visit Paris, you’ll probably spend the most on hotels, followed by food.

Jacqueline Parisi is a Brooklyn-based content strategist, writer, and copywriter with an appetite for all things French. She holds a BA in English & French from Boston College and an MA in French Studies from NYU. Her graduate research focused   on refugees in Paris via the intersection of food, identity, and memory.   When not working, she can usually be found on the yoga mat ,  watching French Netflix, or reading for the one-too-many book clubs she’s a part of. Find her previously published work  here .

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Destinations // Travel Finances

3 Days in Paris Travel Cost – Our Budget Breakdown

• Date Updated: March 3, 2024
• By: Alicia Walter

This post may contain affiliate links. We receive a commission on purchases made through links on this page. This is at no additional cost to you & helps support our travels. Read more in our Disclaimer . Thank you!

Discover our detailed breakdown of Paris travel cost for a memorable 3-day trip, including flights, accommodation, food, and exciting excursions.

Paris is a destination that likely everyone has on their radar for one reason or another. We decided to add it to our one month through Europe and we are so glad we did! There is so much to do in Paris and we are already planning to visit again in the future. 

While we aren’t budget travelers, we do have a budget and try to be reasonable while traveling. Maybe one day, we’ll have an unlimited budget for our trip to Paris, but not yet. This post goes over everything we spent and all of our tips to help you save some money while still having a wonderful trip to Paris. 

We’ll cover what Paris travel cost us, cost of trip to Paris for 2, how much money you should bring to Paris, and more!

As a quick note, we are not backpackers; we rarely stay in hostels and are very cautious with street food. We like to save money where possible, but we certainly spend it on what is important to us.

This is not representative of what you will spend in Paris, even for the same period of time or season. This is merely an overview of what we spent and some of our tips and reasons for the amounts. Please use it as a guide to your future trip to France!

This post is all about what our Paris travel cost for two people.

Best time to visit paris.

I am sure the summer is gorgeous with flowers in bloom and nice weather. However, it’s also peak season, which means it’s more crowded and more expensive. We usually travel in the off-season, and Paris was no exception. We visited in December and got a good rate on flights and accommodations, the two main budget categories affected by seasonality. This 4-night trip was in December. Most days, it was cold and overcast, but it was still nice enough to walk the city. The best part was there was no one there!

The city is exceptionally beautiful in the spring and fall, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds than in the summer months. These periods also tend to be more cost-effective. However, visiting in December can offer the unique experience of holiday lights and winter markets, and it’s often a period with good deals on flights and accommodations due to off-peak seasonality.

Planning a trip to...

Dive into our destination guides, including itineraries and cost posts! Or look at individual countries to start planning your next adventure!

Paris Travel Cost

Total: $380

We flew from Prague to Paris on a budget airline for $30. From there, we booked a one-way flight back to Los Angeles (non-stop) for $350. Flying the US to CDG is a popular route, and you should have plenty of options to find something in your budget. You can always fly into another city like London or Amsterdam and take the train to Paris.

• Get unbelievable flight deals from FareDrop.com!

France is a part of the Schengen Area and allows US Citizens to enter without a pre-booked visa or fee. This great program allows you to travel through 27 European countries for up to 90 days within each 180-day period.

They have been floating the idea of a fee system for US citizens entering and plan on implementing that in 2025; however, it has changed it’s TBA date a lot. Stay current on the current visa requirements on government sites or with iVisa.

• Double check your entry requirements for France!

Accommodations

Total: $320

Average: $80 per night

Since we were traveling in the off-season, we were able to snag a gorgeous hotel in a prime location for fairly cheap. If you are flexible, staying during the weekdays, will help lower your cost of accommodations. Since there is a great public transportation system and Paris is enormous, you really can stay anywhere and be able to see all the sites still fairly easily. Be sure to book ahead to secure the best rates. If you have Hilton status (like you can with some of  these credit cards ), book directly with the brand and you may even get upgraded or breakfast included.

>> Read all about the free benefits that come with Hilton Diamond Status! 

🛌 Our favorite accommodations in Paris

Hôtel La Conversation

La Planque Hotel

Drawing House

• FIND YOUR PERFECT HOTEL

Food & Drink

Total: $200

Average: $50 per day

Average: $25 per person per day

This is the culinary capital of the world. And unfortunately, we did not take advantage of it. We were traveling with family, and prioritized other aspects of Paris. We did eat well, but mostly from cafes or market stalls. These were all take-away style and fairly inexpensive. For example, we paid $7 for a sandwich, $7 for a mulled wine, $5 for cookies, and $6 for beer at a Christmas market in the heart of Paris. If you look for affordable options, you can find them.

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Transportation

Total: $100

Our main expense was the transportation from the airport. We flew into BVA, which is super far from the city. Luckily, they have a bus setup for easy transportation. It cost $36 for two tickets (one-way) and dropped us off centrally in Paris. From there, we called an Uber to our hotel, which cost about $12.

Overall, transportation is easy and you can easily walk many places or take the metro for cheap. We used contactless ticketing with our  credit cards  and paid about $4 daily riding the metro. We also rode the ride-share bikes they have around the city. This was a great way to see the city while getting to your destination. A lot of Paris is flat so the ride was easy and they have bike lanes. We paid around $10 per day for unlimited bike rentals (30-minute max rides each).

Surprisingly, we only spent $20 on our excursions in Paris. The one thing we paid to do was to visit the Catacombs. This has been on my bucket list for years, and it was well worth the trip. The audio guide is included, and it was super interesting to listen to you as you walk through the caves filled with skeletons. Hauntingly beautiful.

There is so much free stuff to do that we didn’t need to spend very much. It’s free to see the Eiffel Tower. You only pay to go up! It’s the same with Arc de Triomphe (plus, they have a free eternal flame ceremony that was really neat). The Notre Dame Cathedral is (and was) still closed, but we still got to see it from the outside. Christmas Markets are free to enter and you only pay for what you want to do once there (they have rides, games, food, and souvenirs). And don’t forget all the free museums in Paris ! 

We have visited since and been to the top of the Eiffel Tower ($50 per person) and the Arc de Triumph ($17 per person). We also have visited Disneyland Paris.

Top Activities in Paris

I would love to visit when there are more outdoor markets (and not freezing temperatures) to shop more. However, this was spent on a few souvenirs, gifts, and a personal care item or two. Nothing significant to note here.

We paid for a Vodaphone package that covered us for one month throughout most of Europe. This gave us plenty data, minutes, and local text messages. It was $5 for the physical SIM card and then $20 for the monthly rate. 

You can also get data before you land with an e-SIM. They have affordable rates and it only takes a few minutes to set up. You can purchase a data plan for an entire region (like Europe) or for an individual country, depending on your trip! 

Purchase and download your e-sim  before you even land in a new country.  Check out Airalo for all your travel data needs  starting at just $4.50. 

Travel Insurance

We pay for a monthly plan for travel insurance . Our rate is $40 per month per person for full coverage on all travel (cancellations, delays, etc.) and medical (emergencies while traveling). This is just an estimate of what it would cost for a week from our monthly plan. If you don’t want to get monthly insurance, you can select the days you are traveling and get coverage specifically for those days. 

Don’t forget to get travel insurance for every trip to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and even lost luggage! Check out SafetyWing for our go-to travel insurance !

Total Paris Travel Cost

Total: $690

Average: $172 per day

Average: $86 per person per day

Total with Flights: $1,070

In conclusion, while traveling to Paris, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, can indeed be expensive, it is not necessary to break the bank to experience all the City of Love has to offer. Our total cost of travel to Paris for two people was only $690, excluding flights. With careful planning and prioritization, you can save in certain areas (us: food) while spending more on what matters most to you (us: accommodations). So don’t let the potential cost deter you; with the right approach, the experience of visiting Paris can be priceless.

This post was all about our total Paris travel cost for two people.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Paris price guide | how much it costs to visit paris.

The daily travel costs to visit Paris, France. Tips for estimating your budget for food, hostels, hotels, attractions, alcohol & more.

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in Europe because it offers so many things—food, fashion, culture, nature, etc. But prices in Paris are generally high so it’s easy to blow your travel budget if you’re not careful. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to visit Paris affordably.

In this Paris travel price guide, we’ve outlined the estimated travel expenses for food, accommodation, attractions, alcohol, and other things that you’ll experience when you visit Paris

This Paris Price Guide is part of our  City Price Guide Series  where we break down the travel costs of Europe’s most popular cities.

Average Daily Cost For Visiting Paris

It costs around €65-€95/day to visit Paris comfortably as a budget traveler.

If you want to upgrade your accommodations, add another €80-€100/night depending on your level of accommodation. These prices also don’t include big nights out at the bar/pub, club entry fees, souvenir/clothing shopping, tours, random purchases, nicer food, etc.

Daily Cost of Budget Travel in Paris: €95 (Approx. $100)

• Attractions: €1 8
• Breakfast: €4
• Dinner: €1 6
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine): €3
• Transportation: € 4
• Accommodation (hostel): €40/night

Daily Cost of Frugal Travel in Paris: €63 (Approx. $68)

• Attractions: €8 (stroll around the city, spend the day in the park, or visit a free museum)
• Breakfast: €2
• Lunch: €6.50 (sandwich from a bakery or a kebab with fries)
• Dinner: €10 (cook your own meal in the hostel)
• Treat: €2 (coffee in a café or a pastry)
• Transportation: €1.70 (single metro ride)
• Accommodation (cheap hostel bed): €32/night

Attraction and Museum Prices In Paris

There is never a shortage of things to do and see in Paris. You can easily spend a few weeks and not see everything. Wanting to see a lot?  You might be able to save some money by using the Paris Pass . Check out our Paris Pass Review to get the most value from this popular city pass. 

• The Louvre :  €1 5- € 17
• National Museum of Modern Art at the Centre Pompidou :  €1 5
• Musée d’Orsay :  €14- € 16
• Musée de l’Orangerie :  € 12.50
• Sainte Chapelle :  €11.50
• Eiffel Tower (Top Level): €28.30
• Palace of Versailles (Palace and Grounds):  € 21.50
• Catacombs of Paris :  €1 8- € 29
• Walking Tours: Free (€5 tip) – € 25

Paris Food Prices

Paris is world-renowned for its cuisine… but it comes at a cost. Luckily, even cash-strapped travelers can still eat well on a budget. However, it’s important to do your research because Paris is full of subpar restaurants so it’s easy to spend a lot of money on bad meals.

Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to the Best Budget Restaurants in Paris to see how to eat cheaply in Paris. 

Paris Budget Breakfast Prices: € 2–€7

• Many hostels will offer a free simple breakfast that normally consists of cereal, bread/croissant, and maybe milk, coffee, tea, or juice (some hostels will offer more and some less).
• You can also find plenty of budget-friendly options at the bakery. Croissants and other baked goods start at around €1.50. Coffee from a typical café will cost around €2. Hint: Drink your espresso at the bar and you’ll pay less. 

Paris Budget Lunch Prices: €7-€15

• Super budget travelers can make a super cheap lunch of bread, cheese, and fruit from any grocery store for a few Euros.
• Cheap takeaway meals (like kebabs with fries) will cost about €6.
• A ham and cheese crepe from a street vendor will cost about €4-€6 and more hearty crepes cost around € 6- € 10.
• A ham and cheese baguette sandwich with a small dessert and drink costs around € 6- € 8.
• A simple, yet filling and tasty, lunch from a local (i.e. non-touristy) restaurant will cost about €10-€15

Paris Budget Dinner Prices: €10-€20

• It isn’t too tough to find a good meal for about €15- € 18. Look for the plat du jour or a fixed price (prix fixe) menu for the best deal. Again, you’ll need to leave the touristy parts of the city to get the best prices.
• A McDonald’s combo meal (burger, fries, and a drink) will cost €7-€9.

Paris Drinks and Alcohol Prices :

• A pint of beer will cost anywhere from €3-€7.
• A six-pack of beer from the store will cost €6-€8.
• A decent glass of wine starts at €3.
• A decent bottle of wine from the store will start around €5.

Recommended Budget Restaurants in Paris

• Grenier au Pain : Local favorite bakery and sandwich shop.
• Le Petit Vendôme : Classic Parisian bistro.
• Maison Castro : Baguette sandwiches with a Mediterranean twist.
• Urfa Dürüm : Amazing Turkish kebab sandwiches made with fresh homemade bread.
• Breizh Café : One of my favorite crepe restaurants.
• La Crêperie Josselin : Another crepe place that consistently makes the “best crepes in Paris” list.
• Bistrot Victories : Bistory that serves up tasty French classics at really good prices.
• Bouillon Chartier : Founded in 1896, this massive old-school Parisian restaurant is officially classified as a historic monument.
• Café de l’Industrie : A fun and lively neighborhood French bistro/restaurant near the Bastille.
• La Petite Rose des Sables : Tiny restaurant that’s run by an old French couple who are some of the nicest people in Paris.
• L’As du Fallafel : This spot is famous for its excellent falafel sandwiches.
• Pho 14 : Cheap and tasty pho. Some of the best in Paris.

Paris Transportation Prices

Paris is a super walkable city so you’ll want to try walking as much as possible. You may find yourself only using public transportation once or twice. For this reason, we recommend purchasing a pack of 10 tickets and using them as needed. Note: The Métro (subway) and buses use the same ticket.

Since the beginning of 2022, metro tickets are still on sale, but are less widely used. They have been replaced by a rechargeable  ‘Navigo Easy’ travel card , which is on sale in most stations on the Paris transport network, as well as in approved shops such as tobacconists, and can be recharged at station ticket offices, at kiosks or on the Île-de-France Mobilités application.

• Single one-way ticket:  €1.90
• Pack of 10 one-way tickets:  €14.90 (€1.37/each)
• Unlimited Day Pass (Mobilis):  €7.50
• 1-Day: €12.00
• 2-Day: €19.50
• 3-Day: €26.65
• 5-Day: €38.35
• RER (train) ticket from CDG airport into the city:  €10.30
• Bus from CDG airport into the city:  €12-€18
• Taxi from CDG airport into the city: €40-€70

Hostel, Hotel, & Rental Apartment Prices in Paris

Budget hotels are small, kinda junky, and still fairly expensive in Paris. You’ll have to drop some cash to get something nice. Hostels in Paris also aren’t that great—especially for how much they cost but there are a handful of solid hostels.

Paris Hostel Prices: €32-€60/Night

The nightly price of a well-rated hostel in Paris starts around €36-€48/night per person—although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend. Remember, these prices are for a bed in a shared dorm room. Private rooms start are around €100-€160.  Check out the latest hostel prices at  Hostelworld .

The Best Hostels in Paris

• Les Piaules
• Le Village Hostel Montmartre
• The Loft Boutique Hostel Paris
• Generator Paris
• St Christopher’s Paris Gare du Nord

Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to  The Best Hostels in Paris  to get a more in-depth look at the city’s various hostel options.

Paris Budget Hotel Prices: €110-€150/Night

A decent budget hotel near the city center will cost around €130/night. You can find cheaper hotels if you want to stay farther away from the center of the city or if you don’t mind staying in a super low-budget place.

Looking for a budget hotel? We suggest checking out  Booking.com  to see hotel prices for your dates since they’re always changing based on demand, time of year, etc.

Paris Rental Apartment Prices: €100-€170+/Night

Paris has more vacation rental apartments than any other city so you’ll find a wide range of options. These rentals can be a good option for large groups or travelers who want a little more space (and a kitchen). On the other hand, you may also have to deal with inconvenient check-in processes and things like extra cleaning fees and service charges (which makes short stays quite a bit more expensive). For short stays, we prefer hotels/hostels but rental apartments can be a nice option for longer stays. Airbnb is popular but here’s a list of Airbnb alternatives that could help you find cheaper/better options.

Get More Budget Travel Tips For Visiting Europe

We’ve created a guide about the costs of traveling through Europe (including more City Price Guides ) —  Click here to read more about Europe Travel Costs .

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How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost (On Any Budget)?

There’s no getting around it: a trip to Paris costs a pretty penny.

The City of Lights is not a cheap place to visit, and planning a Paris travel budget will likely require some sacrifice.

That being said, there’s a reason that a trip to Paris, cost aside, is a bucket list trip for so many around the world.

Paris is a captivating, enthralling, endlessly interesting city, with a never-ending list of things to see and do (and some of them won’t even add a penny to your Paris travel budget).

Ready to put pen to paper and plan the less-romantic aspects of your trip to Paris?

Here’s how much a trip to Paris costs.

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Table of Contents

How to Use This Trip to Paris Cost Guide

Budget trip to paris cost: $50-$80/day, mid-range trip to paris cost: $120-$150/day, luxury trip to paris cost: $350/day & up, quick reference sheet: cost of popular paris attractions, free things to do in paris, getting to paris on a budget, how to save money on your trip to paris.

Obviously, every traveler and every Paris travel budget is unique–but after traveling to Paris many times on many different budgets, from budget backpackers in our early twenties all the way through more comfortable price points, we’ve put together these estimates to help paint a clear picture of what a trip to Paris costs at several different budget levels.

All of these estimates for the price of a trip to Paris are given in USD unless otherwise stated and are for one person–if you’re traveling in a group, you’ll likely be able to squeeze by on numbers a bit lower than these.

The estimates also assume you’re traveling during high season (summer) or shoulder season (late spring, early fall).

If you are trying to calculate your trip to Paris cost for a winter trip, you’ll likely be able to travel a bit more comfortably–we’ll get into that more below.

Planning a trip to Paris on a budget is completely doable… but it will absolutely come with some sacrifices. 

This is a rough sketch of what a budget trip to Paris will cost and feel like.

Keep in mind that this is a budget trip in the sense of a traveler who is visiting Paris as a standalone destination or as part of a defined trip.

Shoestring backpackers who would like to cut costs by Couchsurfing, avoiding all paid attractions, etc, will, of course, be able to get by on less, but that is not how we would recommend seeing Paris!

Accommodation

When traveling on a strict budget, a hostel in Paris is a must. In high season, you may be able to find a hostel dorm bed for around $20/night.

H owever, if you’d like to be in a decent area and stay somewhere that doesn’t get atrocious reviews, you’ll really need to aim for around $30/night.

Accommodation is one of the biggest budget considerations in any trip, but especially for budget solo travelers in France , who will especially benefit from considering a hostel instead of a hotel.

Transportation

A carnet (or set of 10) metro tickets in Paris costs 14.9 Euro (or about $17). Other than walking, this is the best way to manage your trip to Paris’ cost as far as transportation goes.

Keep in mind that RER tickets that take you beyond central Paris–like to the airport or Versailles–cost a bit more and must be bought separately.

When visiting Paris on a strict budget, taxis and Ubers should be avoided.

Eating in Paris on a budget will mean lots of takeaway crepes and sandwiches, quite a few groceries (especially if you have access to a hostel kitchen), and a need to be very careful about your restaurant choices.

If you’d like to splurge on a couple of restaurant meals, we recommend eating out for lunch instead of dinner and choosing a well-reviewed and affordable spot. Bouillon Pigalle and Bouillon Chartier are two we can recommend.

Breakfast will be best picked up from a bakery–fresh French pastries are undoubtedly an excellent way to begin a day, no matter what your budget is.

Tours & Attractions

Depending on how strict of a travel budget for Paris you’ve put yourself on and what time of year you visit (ie, how much of your budget you’re blowing on lodging), visiting paid attractions may be quite limited.

At this price point, basically all guided tours of museums and attractions will be out of the question with the exception of perhaps one bucket list spot.

You’ll likely be able to work a few museums into your budget, which generally cost 10-15 Euro for major museums, while small, lesser known museums may be much less expensive or even free.

Most of our trips to Paris cost roughly this much these days, and we consider ourselves mid-range travelers there more often than not.

At this price point, you’ll be able to visit most attractions you would like to see, splurge on a guided tour or two, possibly add in a food tour or day trip of some kind, and eat at restaurants more comfortably,

However, traveling on a mid-range budget in Paris still does require carefully tracking your finances and making some sacrifices when deciding where to splurge or save–without paying attention, it would be very easy to blow a mid-range Paris travel budget.

Depending on whether you’re traveling alone or as part of a larger group, and what time of year you visit, you may struggle to find comfortable lodging on a mid-range budget in Paris.

We recommend booking at least a few weeks in advance if you can, especially during high season, as hotels in the 2-3 star, $100-200 USD range do fill up rather quickly.

While you may need to sacrifice a bit on location (we stayed out in Montmartre for one of our visits partially to save some money), staying near a metro stop will allow you to access the rest of Paris with ease.

Also: be prepared to stay in a very small room! Hotel rooms in Paris are notoriously small, and at this price point, even more so.

A carnet (or set of 10) metro tickets in Paris costs 14.9 Euro (or about $17). 

Other than walking, this is the best way to manage your trip to Paris’ cost as far as transportation goes, but unlike those traveling on a stricter budget, you may want to consider taking a taxi or Uber in from the airport instead of the train if you arrive at an off time or don’t want to deal with the hassle of potentially changing trains with luggage.

On a mid-range budget, you’ll be able to comfortably eat at least one sit-down restaurant meal a day, and also perhaps splurge on a foodie experience if that appeals to you, whether that’s a cooking class, a food tour, or a nice dinner out on the town.

Prioritization will be a big requirement when balancing the cost of a trip to Paris with traveling on a mid-range budget.

You’ll be able to visit most paid attractions that you’d like, though perhaps not every single one, and adding 2-3 guided tours will be possible if that’s something you’d like to prioritize.

If you have your heart set on a particular bucket list experience in Paris, like a dinner cruise down the Seine or a meal at an upscale restaurant, you’ll likely need to cut expenses elsewhere to make it work.

While I’m defining a trip to Paris costing $350 and up per person as a luxury trip, the sky is the limit when it comes to luxury travel in Paris. 

With the right funds, you could easily spend $1000 a day, $2000 a day, or more exploring the City of Lights–especially when staying in its luxury hotels.

At $350 per person, though, you’ll be comfortable enough to do just about anything you want to do in Paris (within reason, of course).

Here’s what that would look like.

On the lower end of a luxury travel budget in Paris, a four-star hotel in a decent location is an option throughout the year and the luxuries scale from there.

Paris is littered with opulent five-star hotels and glamorous apartment buildings, and with enough of a budget, this is a way to truly splurge in Paris.

Honestly, while you certainly can afford to take Ubers and taxis to get around Paris on a luxury budget, the ever-affordable and reliable metro is still going to be the most efficient way to get around in most cases.

For day trips, however, you’ll have more options on a higher budget, such as booking faster trains at better time slots, arranging for a driver, or taking guided trips with small groups out of town.

Paris is the perfect city to linger over long dinners at Michelin Star restaurants, complete intricate wine tastings, and enjoy all manner of luxury dining experiences.

A higher budget will allow for these meals at least some nights, and will undoubtedly be part of a luxury trip to Paris.

If upscale dining is important to you, bear in mind that you’ll want to make reservations as early as possible at the most popular spots.

Touring the City of Lights without worrying about how much your trip to Paris costs allows for some truly epic experiences: think private tours through some of the best museums on the planet, dining at top restaurants run by gifted chefs, and shopping at the flagship stores of world-famous designers.

Whatever your taste, Paris has something to offer.

As you start thinking about which Paris highlights are worth the money to you (and which aren’t), here’s a quick snapshot of the prices of visiting some of Paris’ most popular attractions to give you an idea of what kind of investment you’re looking at.

Luckily, you can buy skip-the-line attractions for many places in Paris, including the Arc de Triomphe and Sainte-Chapelle, without paying a penny extra–so we absolutely recommend taking advantage of those deals.

Visiting the Top of the Eiffel Tower: 16 Euros & up

The cost of visiting the Eiffel Tower varies wildly, with different price points depending on whether you want to use the lift or the stairs, whether you want to visit only the second floor or go all the way to the top, and whether you want to skip the line.

Honestly, we don’t recommend going up–it’s a crowded madhouse and doesn’t have the best view of Paris (I mean, how could it possibly when the Eiffel Tower itself isn’t in the shot?).

Timed Ticket to the Louvre: 17 Euros

Be sure to book these tickets in advance–if you try to book for the same day, especially during high season, there’s a good chance that there won’t be any more time slots available.

This price, of course, doesn’t include a tour– here’s the Louvre tour we loved if you’d like to take a look at that. Louvre tours are generally 50 Euros & up, though they do include entrance fees.

Book your visit to the Louvre today! You can get  timed skip-the-line tickets here , book the same  amazing tour we took here , or book another  well-reviewed tour of the Louvre here .

Arc de Triomphe Ticket: 12 Euros

Now that the rooftop of Notre Dame is no longer available for visits, we can confidently say the top of the Arc de Triomphe holds our favorite view of Paris–we definitely recommend going up if you can work it into your Paris travel budget!

Book your skip-the-line tickets for the Arc de Triomphe  today!

Sainte-Chapelle Ticket: 10 Euros

Stunningly beautiful and one of the prettiest houses of worship in the world (in my opinion, anyway), this Gothic chapel is definitely worth seeing.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for Sainte-Chapelle  today!

Though Paris is generally an expensive city to visit, savvy (or broke) travelers can generally find plenty of ways to save money in Paris–starting with taking advantage of the many, many free things to do in Paris.

Admire the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero.

The most famous viewpoint to admire the Eiffel Tower from, the sprawling balcony of Trocadero, is completely free to visit–and snapping photos here is an incredibly easy and fun way to enjoy Paris (though don’t forget to climb down eventually and search for your own angles on the tower, too!).

Stroll through Paris’ many gardens.

Paris is full of gardens and parks just waiting to be explored, starting with the magnificent Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries Gardens.

Wander the streets of Montmartre.

Exploring the cobblestone streets and pretty, quiet lanes of Montmartre (once you get past the crowded madness of Sacre Coeur and the Place du Tertre, that is) will allow you see some of the loveliest spots in Paris with completely no cost… minus the sacrifice your legs will make to climb up and down those steep hills, that is.

Take in an epic view of Paris from the Galeries Lafayette Rooftop.

Want to see Paris from above but can’t work a tour to the top of a monument into your trip to Paris travel budget? No worries.

The 7th-floor rooftop terrace of the Galeries Lafayette department store has a fabulous view of the city, the Eiffel Tower, and the Palais Garnier–and it doesn’t cost a penny to visit.

Step inside the Church of Saint Sulpice.

Notre Dame may be closed indefinitely, but the second-biggest church in Paris is still open, and it is both open and free to visit–it won’t add a penny to the price of a trip to Paris.

The sweeping interior is impressive and beautiful, and it is definitely worth seeing during your trip to Paris.

Stroll along the Seine.

We especially recommend strolling across the Pont des Arts for lovely views of Il de la Cite, across Pont Alexander III to admire the prettiest bridge in Paris, and across the river from Il de la Cite to enjoy the beautiful bouquinistes as they hawk books and other wares.

Explore Pere Lachaise Cemetery.

Paris’ famous Pere Lachaise Cemetery feels like an odd combination of final resting place and lovely city park, home to ambling trails, gorgeous trees that offer shade, and some very famous graves (Oscar Wilde, Frederic Chopin, and Jim Morrison were all laid to rest there).

The cemetery is free to visit and a lovely way to spend an afternoon in Paris.

Go on a personalized scavenger hunt for hidden Parisian gems.

Did you know that Nicholas Flamel lived in Paris, and you can still see carvings on the front of his former house… which also happens to be the oldest domestic building still standing in Paris?

Or that there is a vineyard and a couple of windmills (not including the Moulin Rouge) left in Montmartre? 

Or that Paris is home to a pet cemetery, or that there’s an incredibly unique building on Avenue Rapp that looks like it belongs in Barcelona?

It may not be exactly the same as being in a museum, but Paris’ streets are free to explore and are absolutely stuffed with incredible things to see–as long as you know what you’re looking at.

Shave some money off your trip to Paris’ cost by spending a day looking for little-known landmarks around Paris.

We’ve intentionally left out the costs of getting to Paris from this Paris travel budget guide because the costs vary so wildly depending on where you’re coming from.

However, here’s the good news: whether you’re coming from North America, Europe, or somewhere else, Paris is generally very affordable to get to as compared to other cities in the region–in fact, those (comparatively) low prices are a big part of the reason we ended up visiting Paris on our first trip to Europe years ago!

Charles de Gaulle Airport is a huge international hub, and Paris Orly Airport is a solid second option that receives many flights–especially budget flights from within Europe–daily.

Paris is also well-connected to many other European cities by train, so those who are already on the continent will be able to compare prices there as well.

If you are flying in and are able to be flexible with your dates, absolutely take advantage of that and arrange for the most advantageous flight you can–sometimes flying a day or two earlier or later can save hundreds per ticket.

We run all of our flights through Google Flights and take a look at the monthly calendar before booking–it’s an incredibly easy way to know if you can save money on the transportation part of your Paris travel budget.

Consider traveling in the offseason.

Above all else, this is the number one thing you can do to save money on the cost of a trip to Paris: travel in the offseason.

Paris in November, December, or January is a dramatically cheaper tourist destination than in June, July, or August–and as a bonus, you’ll have far fewer crowds to contend with as well.

The biggest reason for this is the cost of a hotel. Lodging, as we discussed above, is very expensive in Paris, and you can knock a huge percentage off your overall trip to Paris cost simply by traveling when the hotels are a bit emptier (and therefore more in the mood to entice customers).

We’ve visited Paris during the winter twice and adored both our visits–sure, we miss the gardens and liveliness of summer in the city a bit, but it’s a completely reasonable trade-off, and we’d be thrilled to return during the winter yet again.

Pay attention to free days at museums.

If you’re traveling on a very strict budget in Paris, note that even the biggest of Paris’ museums have limited times in which they are free to enter: for the Musee d’Orsay, it’s the first Sunday of every month, and for the Louvre, it’s evenings on the first Saturday of each month.

Of course, what you’ll save in cash you’ll pay for in increased crowds, but if you are trying to stretch your Paris travel budget as far as possible, it’s worth doing some research on the exact options for any museums you’re hoping to see.

Don’t go to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

You know what iconic piece of Paris’ skyline is missing from the top of the Eiffel Tower?

… The Eiffel Tower.

Seriously, visiting the top of the Eiffel Tower is one of the most expensive ways to see the Paris skyline, and it comes with the very real deficiency of not being able to see the star of the show while you’re up there.

If it has long been your dream to go, by all means, go and enjoy–but don’t feel like it’s a must-have experience in Paris, either.

For other (less expensive) views of Paris, head to the Arc de Triomphe, Sacre Coeur, Galeries Lafayette, or the Montparnasse Tower, among others.

Embrace crepes & picnics.

Trying to eat on a budget in Paris?

Be sure to stop at least once (and if you’re on a strict budget, definitely more than once) for a takeaway crepe–fresh, warm, cheap, and delicious, they are an absolute treat and regardless of budget, they’re worth tasting in Paris.

Also, one of the most famous Parisian experiences of all–a picnic–is one of the cheapest ways to eat in the city. Grab a baguette, some cheese, some meat, possibly some wine, and whatever else your heart desires and sit down to eat with a beautiful view.

Keep in mind that there are regulations around picnicking in some parts of Paris–drinking alcohol is prohibited in the Luxembourg Gardens, for example, though word on the street is that locals do so discreetly.

Decide what bucket list experiences you must have, and budget for them ahead of time.

When carefully calculating how much your trip to Paris will cost, be sure to plan for at least one truly bucket list experience–since Paris the trip of a lifetime for many, the sort of destination that tens of thousands of children dream about visiting, odds are you have at least one thing in mind that you absolutely must do while in the City of Lights.

Whether that’s touring the Louvre or admiring the skyline from the Eiffel Tower or cruising down the Seine, your Paris travel budget will be best served by committing to the experience ahead of time and budgeting for it in a separate category from your daily expenses.

Bring your student ID.

If you’re a student (or an EU resident under 26), you’re entitled to free or reduced admission at many popular sights around Paris, so be sure to keep it handy!

Don’t sit down at a restaurant without doing your research.

In a city as touristy as Paris, there’s no shortage of restaurants that are tourist traps, whether that means mediocre food, obnoxiously high prices, or both.

Before sitting down to eat, give the restaurant a quick Google search to check reviews, and also glance at their menu.

You’ll save yourself plenty of money on your Paris travel budget this way, not to mention avoid disappointing your stomach.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Paris Travel Guide

How expensive is Paris? Budget Breakdown

Figure out how much you need to budget for your next trip to Paris and gauge your expenses for transport, accommodation, sightseeing, and food

Paris is certainly known for being an expensive city, but what do people mean exactly by that? Here we’re going to give you a breakdown of every budgeting aspect of planning a trip to Paris. Along with the average and expected costs, we’ll also include comparisons between high and low seasons and our personal tips on how to keep those expenses as low as possible.

Average travel expenses

Understanding roughly how much money you’ll need for daily activities is one of the most important things to know in order to have an idea of a budget. Firstly, let us state the obvious. This amount greatly depends on the type of holiday you are aiming for and the activities you have planned.

Conversely, if you’re going on a carefully budgeted holiday with lots of self-guided tours, your expenses will be lower than average. In any case, for a Paris trip with the average amount of sightseeing, guided tours, and moving around, your budget should be between €60.00 - €80.00 (not including accommodation).

Keep in mind that full-price entry tickets to the top museums and sights in Paris go anywhere from €7.00 to €20.00.

Of course, if you have a Paris Museum Pass or a Paris Passlib’ you don’t have to worry about those. These two passes give you free access to the city’s most important sites, so you end up saving lots on these tickets.

- are as follows.

• All inclusive pass for 2 days: €52.00
• All inclusive pass for 4 days: €66.00
• All inclusive pass for 6 days: €78.00

- are below.

• Passlib’ for 3 attractions of your choice €35.00
• Passlib’ for 5 attractions of your choice €69.00
• Passlib’ for 6 attractions of your choice €119.00 or €189.00 (deluxe)

Something else that has an impact on your daily budget is the duration of your stay. The longer you stay, the more you’ll be able to spread out your expenses (especially with the help of longer-duration passes).

If, for instance, you are visiting Paris for a weekend only, you’ll want to see as much as possible in the shortest time. This means you’ll probably end up spending a bit more on transport, trying to move between different places quickly. For this reason, we suggest you prepare to spend around €70.00 - €90.00 daily (accommodation excluded) for a shorter trip (like a weekend).

Costs of accommodation in Paris

Similarly to the average travel expenses, accommodation costs also vary greatly depending on the type of place you look for, how early you’re booking, and how many people you are travelling with. Obviously, if you’re travelling alone you’re going to spend a lot more than if you were with someone else - the cost for a double bedroom or a single is usually the same or only marginally different.

For budget-conscious travellers, the cheapest option is always a hostel. If you are travelling with a big enough group of friends, you can even book an entire dorm for yourselves. Just remember to reserve early enough to be able to do it . Otherwise, there many one or two-star hotels at convenient prices.

Of course, there are also plenty of three-star hotels, b&bs, four-star hotels, and apartments in the mid-price range. If you are staying long enough (at least a week), you can save money by choosing a place in the outer districts (arrondissements 10 to 20). However, if you are only staying for a few days, we recommend you stay as close as possible to the city centre to avoid wasting too much time on transport.

And finally, you’ll also find plenty of luxurious hotels - Paris is, after all, known for its class and sophistication. The sky is the limit for this one.

However, something that is true for all budget ranges, is that the earlier you book, the better prices and choices you’ll get. The most important thing you can do while planning your trip is to reserve your accommodation early . You’ll get more choices and lower prices.

Following are the average prices per night for a double bedroom in a hotel or apartment in Paris.

However, during high season and with little notice, prices go up significantly.

Costs of transport in Paris

Transport in Paris is overall quite convenient. Obviously, public transport is the cheapest option, and the most commonly used. The network covers the city in all its neighbourhoods thoroughly and with an almost continuous service, thanks to the Métro , urban buses , RER trains , funicular , and tramways . If you want to know more about this, we have an article answering all the most common questions about public transport in Paris

Depending on how long you are staying and how you plan on using public transport, you’ll be using different kinds of tickets. Here are the most popular options.

• One-way single transport ticket ( T+Ticket ): €1.90
• 10-journey transport ticket ( T+ 10 carnet ): €14.90
• Weekly pass ( Passe Navigo ): €22.80
• Multi-day pass ( Paris Visite ) for central Paris: €12.00 (1 day), €19.50 (2 days), €26.65 (3 days), €38.35 (5 days).

Of course, you might need to add extra journeys outside the city centre if your transport pass does not cover those zones. This would be the case for T+ tickets or the Paris Visite for zones 1-3. The most popular destinations outside central Paris - airports aside - are the Versailles Palace and Disneyland . Consider that these journeys on public transport will cost around €10.00 each.

This means that, on average , and by choosing the right kind of transport pass, you should be spending between €6.00 and €12.00 per day for public transport. To help you choose which pass is best for you, we have an article comparing the T+ 10 carnet, the Passe Navigo, and the Paris Visite .

If you want to use cabs in the city, you must be warned that they are a bit expensive. Following are some useful references to gauge how much you’ll be spending on taxis.

• A cab within the Parisian centre will cost between €10.00 and €15.00.
• A taxi between Charles De Gaulle Airport and Paris centre will either €53.00 or €58.00 (depending on the river bank you depart from/arrive at).
• A taxi between Orly Airport and Paris centre will be €32.00 or €37.00 (depending on the river bank you depart from/arrive at).

Another popular transport solution is electric vehicles (mopeds and scooters) . The cost varies greatly depending on the type of vehicle you rent and how much you use it. We suggest you have a look at our motosharing article to get an idea.

How much does it cost to eat in Paris

Prices for food and drinks can also vary widely depending on the area and neighbourhood. Generally, the closer you are to the big streets and monuments, the more touristy and expensive the eateries will be. A meal can cost you anywhere between €10.00 and €30.00, for instance. Many establishments offer lunch menus (rarely above €20.00), so that is always a convenient option.

If you’re on the go and don’t feel like spending too much money on a quick lunch, you can always grab a freshly-made sandwich at a local bakery - this will be around €6.00 or €8.00. A Parisian idiosyncrasy is that wine (€2.00 - €10.00) is often cheaper than beer (€4.00 - €8.00) so you might have that as your choice of alcohol for a meal.

As per usual, if what you’re looking for is luxury and gourmet, there will be plenty of options at various price points all around Paris. And if you need a little help or a few suggestions on what traditional French dishes to try out during your stay, read our article dedicated to French cuisine and eating habits .

The best time to travel to Paris

In terms of cost-efficiency, the best periods to travel to Paris are during the low season . This would be in the autumn (mid-September to November) and in the winter-spring . However, do remember that Easter tends to be a busy time, so it’s best to plan for the time after New Year and before Easter, or after Easter and before the beginning of summer (in mid-June).

Not only you’ll find that the city is less crowded than usual (resulting in it being easier to navigate), but also that hotels and apartments don’t get booked up as easily, so you’ll find better prices all around.

If you want to know what the weather is like in every season so that you can be prepared and pack accordingly, have a look at our article about the different seasons in Paris .

Travelling on a budget

If you are trying to avoid unnecessary expenses and you have a tight budget, there are quite a few things you can do to help yourself.

Starting with the basics, we’ll say that accommodation is one of the first things you should secure . Paris is a wildly popular destination, so you need to reserve fast in order to get reasonable prices. You can book your hotel or apartment in Paris here directly .

Then, it’s also good to keep an eye out for special discounts . There are quite a few ways you can save money on entries and tickets, you just need to be informed. Most discounts apply to young visitors, retirees, people with disabilities, students, or large families, so be on the lookout if you belong to one or more of those categories. For example:

Children under the age of 3 travel for free on Paris’ public transport.

Children aged 4-9 are entitled to discounts on Paris’ public transport.

People under 18 (from any country) or people under 26 with EU residency have free access to national museums and permanent collections in Paris.

If you don’t benefit from any of the entry discounts, you can still save huge amounts of money by getting all-included passes like the Paris Museum Pass or the Paris Passlib’ . With these, you can get free access to all the most important monuments in Paris for several days. We strongly recommend you do this instead of getting individual tickets for each venue.

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How Much Money Do I Need for a Trip to Paris?

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

Categories Paris , Paris Guides , Travel Guides

Home » How Much Money Do I Need for a Trip to Paris?

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Visiting Paris could be a dream come true for many.

But, the question always remains: how much money do you actually need for a trip to this enchanting city?

I’ve had the luxury of both visiting Paris as a tourist and living in Paris for the past 4 years, and I’ve got a good idea on how much money it takes to enjoy this city to the fullest.

Let’s dive into the costs and come up with an average budget for your Paris trip.

In this post, you'll find...

An average 5-day stay in Paris would cost around $1,280 ( €1,160 ), which includes popular activities, occasional dining out, accommodation, and transportation.

⚠️ Note : Keep in mind that this figure may vary greatly depending on your spending habits.

Let me break down a  typical daily budget   (excluding accommodation)  in Paris for you:

• Meals:  Expect to spend about $46 (€41) a day on meals, with breakfast at a local cafe and dinner at a not-so-fancy restaurant. Yummy crepes, anyone?
• Local transportation:  Allocate around $24 (€21) daily for getting around the city. Opt for public transport and weekly passes to save some extra bucks.
• Attractions and activities:  Be prepared to spend between €60.00 – €80.00 for sightseeing, guided tours, and museum entries. Don’t miss the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum!

Average cost of a Paris trip: Budget, Mid-Range, & Luxury

Now, let’s explore how your budget could vary:

Budget option

If you’re a savvy budget traveler, around  $800  may be enough for a 5-day trip.

Staying at a hostel for about €25 a night, skipping fancy meals, and being selective about attractions could help you stay within budget. Remember, baguettes and hostel kitchens are your friends!

Luxury option

On the other end of the spectrum, if luxury and comfort are your top priorities, be prepared to shell out  $2,500 to $3,000  for a 5-day trip. This budget includes splurging on private tours, cozy hotel rooms, and relishing French cuisine at its finest.

While these costs provide a general overview, your expenditure in Paris will ultimately depend on your preferences and travel style.

⚡ Related read: The 10 Best 4-Star Hotels in Paris

Planning Your Budget for a Paris Trip

Paris, the City of Love, is a spectacular place to explore, but it’s also important to plan your expenses.

In this guide, I’ll help you figure out a budget for your visit, so that you can have an incredible experience without breaking the bank.

Accommodation Costs

When I first ventured to Paris, I was surprised by the range of accommodation options available. From budget hostels to luxurious five-star hotels, there’s something for every type of traveler.

If you’re a budget traveler, a hostel dorm room can cost around €25 per night. However, if you’re willing to splurge for more comfort, a mid-range hotel will set you back around €150-€200 per night.

A private room in a vacation rental or a boutique hotel could be a great option as well, with prices falling in between those two extremes.

During my first visit, I opted for a cozy Airbnb near the city center, which was a perfect blend of affordability and convenience.

Here’s a quick breakdown of accommodation costs in Paris:

Remember that prices may vary depending on factors like your travel style, the time of year you visit, and how far in advance you book.

⚡ Related read: Where to Stay in Paris (Best Areas & Hotels)

Food and Dining Expenses

It’s essential to allocate a portion of your budget for food, especially for those must-try local dishes.

On average, you might spend around €46 per day on meals. This figure includes a combination of eating out and grabbing a snack at a local market or grocery store.

I found it helpful to have a mix of both – I’d grab fresh fruit from the market for breakfast, and then treat myself to a nice dinner in the evening.

Here are some average prices for dining in Paris:

• Inexpensive meal: €10-€15
• Mid-range restaurant meal: €25-€40
• Fine dining experience: €90+

Of course, you’ll find various price ranges across the city. Once in a while, I splurge on a fancy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant – it’s usually well worth the investment, but not something I do every night!

There are tonnnnns of cheap and delicious Paris restaurants to try when you’re eating on a budget – I recommend checking out a few of them to save some money on meals while you’re here!

Planning your budget for a Paris trip involves considering your options for accommodation and dining, based on your preferences and travel style. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, so factor in some wiggle room for unexpected expenses.

Transportation Costs in Paris

Getting to paris.

So you’ve decided to visit the beautiful  City of Light  for your next vacation, and now you need to figure out the cost of getting there.

If you’re coming from the United States, particularly from a city like New York or San Francisco, you’ll find that the cost of flights will be one of your major expenses.

A direct flight from New York to one of Paris’ international airports like Charles de Gaulle Airport can range anywhere between $300-$1,000 depending on the time of year, airline, and how far in advance you book.

Keep an eye out for deals and be flexible with your travel dates if possible to save some cash!

Getting Around Paris

Once you’ve arrived in the enchanting streets of Paris, you’ll want to explore all the famous landmarks on your bucket list.

Lucky for you, Paris has an excellent public transportation system. The most affordable and convenient way to get around is via metro.

A single metro ticket costs €2.10 or about $2.15, and you can buy a carnet (a set of 10) for €14.90 or $17.

Not too bad for getting around one of the most beautiful cities in the world, eh?

💡 Note : For the period of July 20 to Sept. 8 (during the 2024 Summer Olympics), the price of a single, one-way metro ticket will increase to €4.10.

If you’re planning to use the metro frequently during your visit, it might be worth looking into the  Paris Visite Pass . This pass offers unlimited travel on local transportation, including buses, trams, RER, and metro lines. Prices range from €12-€65.80 (about $13-$75) depending on the duration of the pass and the zones you want to cover.

A quick tip: while the magical City of Light might tempt you to use taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber, these options can add up quickly and exceed your budget. Stick to public transportation when possible!

With metro stations practically at every corner, you’ll be able to navigate the city without breaking the bank. This way, you can save some euros for indulging in all those delicious croissants and eclairs that’ll be calling your name.

⚡ Related read: How to Navigate the Paris Metro Like A Pro

Cost of Popular Activities and Attractions

Must-See Attractions

While planning your trip to Paris , you’ll want to make sure you allocate enough funds for some of the city’s iconic attractions. Often on many travelers’ bucket lists, these sites are a must-see when visiting the beautiful City of Light.

• Louvre Museum : Home to the famous Mona Lisa, a full price of €14.32 will grant you entry, so you can marvel at the rich history contained within its walls.
• Notre Dame Cathedral : Although currently closed for restoration, don’t forget to admire its stunning architecture from the outside.
• Arc de Triomphe : For a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower and Paris, it’s well worth the fee to climb its steps.
• Moulin Rouge : Catch a truly Parisian experience by attending a cabaret show. Prices vary depending on the package, so choose wisely based on your travel plans.

Another tip for convenience and budget is to consider the  Paris Museum Pass  or the  Paris Pass , which can save you time and money at numerous popular tourist attractions. Plus, it makes visiting these must-sees even more accessible.

⚡ Related read: How to Visit the Arc de Triomphe

Hidden Gems and Free Activities

Paris has more to offer than just its main attractions.

Diving into the hidden gems and participating in free activities is great for those on a reasonable budget or simply looking to explore something off the beaten path.

• Free Entry : Many museums in the city offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month, including the Louvre. Check museum schedules and take advantage of this deal during your visit.
• Bustling Markets : Wander through charming local markets where you can sample fresh produce or grab a classic baguette. You’ll truly feel like a Parisian.
• Impromptu Performances : Keep an eye out for street artists and musicians, who often perform in popular areas and parks, adding a unique touch to your time in the city.
• Day Trip to Versailles : Have a day trip to the incredible Palace of Versailles . Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month from November to March. Explore the palace, beautiful gardens and appreciate the rich history without breaking your Paris budget.
• Disneyland Paris : While normally a bit pricey, consider timing your visit during special promotions and discounts, such as “Kids Under 7 Stay and Play for Free” in order to save on some expenses.

⚡ Related read: 15 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Paris

Additional Expenses

Travel insurance.

One of the crucial expenses to consider while planning a trip to Paris is  travel insurance .

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and getting a good travel insurance deal can provide peace of mind during your trip. Depending on your travel style and needs, the cost of travel insurance may vary, but you can find reasonable prices by comparing different providers.

I remember on my first trip to Paris, my friend and I were initially reluctant to buy travel insurance. However, we later realized that it was a great deal to protect us from any unexpected events, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Emergency Funds

It’s always wise to have some emergency funds set aside during your trip. Trust me, you never know when you’ll encounter an unexpected situation that requires additional expenses.

If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to reconsider some optional activities like a Seine River cruise or a day trip to the Loire Valley. However, cutting costs on emergency funds should be a last resort only.

For instance, if you plan a week-long visit to Paris with a budget of $2000, it would be a good idea to allocate around 5-10% (i.e., $100 – $200) of your budget as emergency funds. Having some emergency funds aside is essential!

Thanks for reading!

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Cost of a Trip to Paris, FR & the Cheapest Time to Visit Paris

The average price of a 7-day trip to Paris is $1,450 for a solo traveler, $2,604 for a couple, and $4,882 for a family of 4 . Paris hotels range from $68 to $422 per night with an average of $120, while most vacation rentals will cost $210 to $490 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport ( CDG ) are between $622 and $1,010 per person for economy flights and $1,952 to $3,169 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $57 to $82 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Paris, FR

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to CDG and stay in a Paris hotel:

• January 1st to April 1st
• May 7th to May 20th
• October 1st to December 16th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Paris is usually mid January .

Average Paris Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Paris for a week is $1,246-$2,244 ($178-$321 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $57 to $82 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $355 to $848 for economy

Lodging : $82 to $96 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $112 to $137 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Paris for a week is $2,534-$3,990 ($362-$570 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $114 to $164 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $710 to $1,696 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Paris for a week is $3,958-$7,002 ($565-$1,000 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $228 to $328 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,420 to $3,392 for economy

Lodging : $164 to $192 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $157 to $219 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Paris

How cheap can you make a vacation to Paris? The cheapest trip to Paris is about $94 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $59.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Paris for a week is $656-$1,606 ($94-$229 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $25 to $50 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $59 to $68 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $51 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Paris for a week is $1,186-$2,804 ($169-$401 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $100 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Paris for a week is $2,312-$5,608 ($330-$801 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $100 to $200 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $118 to $136 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $32 to $77 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Paris cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Paris Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Paris.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Paris for a week is $2,486-$8,797 ($355-$1,257 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $103 to $172 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $877 to $1,713 for first class

Lodging : $148 to $422 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $490 to $980 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Paris for a week is $4,084-$11,714 ($583-$1,673 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $206 to $344 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,754 to $3,426 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Paris for a week is $8,168-$19,900 ($1,167-$2,843 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $412 to $688 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,508 to $6,852 for first class

Lodging : $296 to $844 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $784 to $1,372 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Paris Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Paris is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Paris due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Paris Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Paris hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Paris.

Flight Costs to Paris

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,010 average in early August to a low of $622 in mid January. Median flight price is $756. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Paris our data includes 582 originating airports, and 210 airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Paris from an airport like Stewart International ( SWF ) in Newburgh/Poughkeepsie, NY (the United States) for an average $8,133 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like London Luton ( LTN ) in London (the United Kingdom) at an average of just $87.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Paris, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $388, so you can easily save about 62% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Paris can easily cost $370 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $25 per person. Private tours can cost $746 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

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Is Paris Expensive? A Paris Trip Cost Guide

Last Updated on September 18, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Images of Paris ooze luxury and charm, and it makes many would-be travellers to wonder if it is an expensive city to visit. Working out the total cost of a trip to Paris can be difficult when factoring in accommodation, food and drink, activities, transport and other expenses, as life in big cities is notoriously costly.

Paris is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Europe, with an average daily cost of €120-565 (approximately $128-603 USD) per person per day. However, there are areas where you can learn to get the most out of your travel budget.

Table of Contents

Paris Trip Cost Guide

We’ll break down each of the main expenses for a trip to Paris to give you an overview of how much you might spend in a day in the French capital.

Accommodation Prices

Accommodation prices can vary a great deal depending on how budget-friendly or no-expense-spared your Paris city break will be. It surely won’t surprise you to learn that accommodation in Paris is generally quite a bit more expensive compared to the rest of France.

A night in an average hostel in Paris such as The People Paris Marais  would cost around €50-60 per person in a dorm room or from €100 to €350 for a private room, though most options are around the €180-mark.

A mid-range hotel such as Ibis, or Mercure Hotels, start at around €120 for one night in a room with a double bed, or up to €190 as you get closer to the city centre. Keep in mind that prices often increase in the high season months – especially in July and August but can be cheaper if visiting Paris in winter.

There are lots of Ibis hotels around France, and plenty in Paris, with a popular hotel located within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower in the Hôtel ibis Paris Tour Eiffel Cambronne for €150 per night for the room and the Hôtel ibis Paris Rueil Malmaison near the Rueil Malmaison metro station as a cheaper option from around €70 per night from which you can easily get into the centre of Paris.

If you’re taking the trip to Paris of a lifetime, you’re celebrating or you simply enjoy the finer things in life, hotels like Novotel Paris Les Halles and other boutique hotels are very popular and located right in the 1st arrondissement (one of the best areas for first time visitors !), while Le Relais Montmartre is a beautiful hotel in Montmartre.

One night in a standard room for two in a luxury hotel like this would cost from €350 – 550 for a double room.

Transportation Prices

Paris’ public transport system is excellent, helping you around the city with 5 train lines, 14 metro lines, 13 tram lines and an extensive bus system.

Fortunately, one ticket works across each of the public transport systems, except transit to the airports and other distant locations via train which cost €11-17, rather than the standard 1 journey ticket for €2.10.

You can also buy a pass at the ticket booths to use all the public transport in Paris in zones 1-3 for €13.55 for 24 hours or you have the option to include access to the airports and Palace of Versailles for an increased fee. As a tourist, this drastically cuts down on travel costs, so it’s the best investment to keep your Paris travel costs to a minimum.

If you prefer to get around Paris by bike and reduce the cost of a trip further, you can rent city bikes from the street with your credit card from Paris’ public bike system Vélib’ Métropole! A 24-hour pass costs €5, or €10 for an electric bike, and just €20 for a 3-day rental.

Note that it’s generally better to rely on public transit, cycling and getting around on foot if you want to stick to your Paris travel budget.

Things like taking a taxi can be expensive and less efficient when accounting for the high traffic that tends to plague the French capital. Renting a car is similarly not recommended on a trip to Paris due to the city’s terrible traffic

Food Prices

To keep your costs low, it might be better to eat a larger lunch and smaller dinner as this often works out cheaper, however, if you simply want to find not-so-expensive options, don’t worry, there are plenty out there.

A Jambon Beurre (and ham and cheese baguette) will cost you around €4-5 from most bakeries, although there are more lavish options like the Caractere de Cochon, which costs roughly €10 for the classic French sandwich, or BBT offer the same delicious ingredients with a drink and dessert for under €10.

For a hot lunch, you can also find croque monsieurs or omelettes for around €15 from many standard cafes.

For dinner, in a mid-range restaurant, you can find a 3-course set menu for around €35, or spend €15 – 35 for a main course.

Most restaurants have a set menu for a more reasonable price than if you just pick from the menu, so if you’re going for 2 or 3 courses, a set menu is the cheapest way and often the best way to sample the restaurants’ specialities.

If you want to have a high-quality dining experience, lunch at a restaurant like the Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower with views over Paris will start a €160 for a set menu, or €255 to 275 for a tasting menu. At dinner, they just offer the 5-course or 7-course tasting menus.

Activities Prices

You may wonder how expensive is Paris due to the vast amount of activities you can do there, which can all add up to make for a high trip cost, however, most museums and galleries in Paris have certain opening days and times for people the visit for free so it’s possible to time your trip to Paris well to still visit the iconic museums and save a lot of money.

Tickets to most of Paris’ galleries and museums are between €10 and €20 for a standard adult entrance ticket, with the Louvre costing €17, the Arc d e Triomphe €13 to go up, the Musée d’Orsay €16, Palais Garnier €14 to enter, Dalí Museum €12 and the Rodin Museum €13.

If you plan on visiting more than a few of these museums while in Paris, it can be extremely cost-effective to purchase the Paris Museum Pass which has options for 2-day, 4-day and 6-day passes and includes entry to a wide array of the most notable museums and attractions in Paris.

The Catacombs are a more expensive activity, at €29 for a tour of the 2 km underground tunnels, and the Eiffel Tower similarly costs €28.30 to reach the top in a lift, or €21.50 for the stairs to the 2nd floor and then the lift to the top.

Other ticket prices are available for the 2nd floor, the cheapest at €11.30 for stair access to the 2nd floor, although if you’re only going to the Eiffel Tower for views from the second floor, you should visit the incredible restaurant while you’re there.

Fortunately, the best time to visit Paris on a budget is on the first weekend of any month except July and August, as the Louvre is free after 6 pm on the first Friday of the month, and the Musée d’Orsay is free on the first Sunday of every month. However, there are many activities you can also do for free.

You can of course walk around Paris at no cost, taking in the sights of the Champs-Élysée, or perusing the old book market on the south bank of the Seine river, walking around the gardens of La Villette, the Jardins du Luxembourg or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont with its beautiful cherry blossom in Spring, or paying your respects at Père Lachaise Cemetery.

You can also get a free art fix at the Pompidou Centre, although you have to pay a small fee for the temporary exhibitions, enjoy the aesthetic interior of the Bibliothèque Mazarine or Sainte Chapelle opposite the Notre Dame de Paris, and visit incredible buildings the Panthéon and the Basilique du Sacré Cœur de Montmartre for free (just avoid mass if you’re going as a tourist).

What’s more, you can get an excellent panoramic view of the city up close and for free from the terrace of the Galeries Lafayette Haussman if you’d rather see the Eiffel Tower from the outside and spend your 20-something euros on a delicious lunch instead.

Entertainment Prices

While you may successfully save money on an apartment further from the centre and make use of a daily Paris travel pass to get around Paris, there are always other expenses on holiday that you need to account for.

Whether it’s your mid-morning coffee, afternoon sweet treat or evening entertainment, to make the most of a trip to Paris, you’ll have to budget for additional costs or face a surprise at the end of your stay.

A simple black Americano, or Café Long to the locals, will cost around €2.50 in most cafes, although it can go over to €6.50 in very fancy spots such as the Cafe du Trocadero or specialist coffee shops.

However, to keep things cheaper, you can always get 50 cents off your coffee if you have a reusable cup in Pret a Manger which you can find all over Paris.

To keep things really cheap, pick up a French press in a Monoprix or other cheap shop and make your own coffee in the mornings at your apartment or hotel.

As your day rolls on, you might want to stop for an apéritif or bière pression in the afternoon, which is also generally more expensive in Paris than in other French cities.

A 25 cl draft beer can cost from €3.50-6 in a pleasant but not luxurious brasserie, with 50 cl beers costing €7-10, with Brasserie Bellanger being a beautiful and inexpensive option for eating and drinking in Paris.

A classic Ricard will also cost around the same amount as a small beer, usually around €4, and other popular apéritifs such as kirs (white wine with a sweet fruity liqueur) and martinis costing around €7 each.

For an evening out, however, you can find many entertainment spots around Paris, each with varying prices.

The renowned Lapin Agile in the Montmartre district, made famous by the many artists who frequented it and immortalised it in their paintings, is a great spot for an evening in Paris, with tickets for the cabaret shows at €35 per person including a drink, and additional drinks between €5 and €9.

For a longer night out, there are many nightclubs in Paris, although they’re not particularly transparent with their entry fees.

Most nightclubs in Paris will charge €10-20 to get in, and you can expect drinks to be slightly more expensive than in other bars in Paris. However, if you’re not concerned about your trip to Paris cost, then nightclubs like Cha Cha Club are very popular and on the more expensive side.

Is Paris Expensive? Average Prices in Paris

For a more detailed view of the cost of a trip to Paris, here is the average cost of a day in Paris for one person, assuming you buy a 24-hour travel pass, have three meals a day, visit three paid-for Parisian landmarks, drink an alcoholic drink and go on an evening out, paying for your entrance and one drink.

So bear in mind, if you only do the free activities in Paris, you can reduce your travel costs greatly, or spend the money you’ve saved on staying closer to the centre.

Accommodation : €50 – 275 / night

Transportation : €10-15 / day

Food : €30 – 150 / day

Activities : €15 – 75 / day

Entertainment : €15 – 50 / day

In general, expect to pay around €120-565 per person per day while visiting Paris. Keep in mind that this is an estimate and there are ways to keep costs down, however, there are certainly ways that you could spend more should you have the room in your budget.

Paris is an expensive city, but that’s not to say you can’t go on a cheap trip to Paris. With plenty of artistic, cultural and natural activities to take part in as well as some fantastic offers to make the most of, you can enjoy a trip to Paris without breaking the bank.

Are wondering about the costs in Paris? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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How much Should You Budget for A Trip to Paris

I recently received an email from a reader for restaurant recommendations for Paris with a daily budget. I thought this would help a good amount of readers figure out a budget and what to expect to spend in Paris so I turned it into a blog post. While the original email was just about meals, I wanted to cover transportation as well as hotels to give more information.

Cost of getting to and from CDG

1. Taxi 55 Euros

2. Train 11. 40 Euros

3. Bus 12.50

4. Uber 55 euros

5. Private Car 75 euros

How to get from CDG to Paris

Meals in Paris

If your breakfast is not included in your room rate at your hotel, I would recommend skipping it. The hotel breakfast can be pricey. Parisian breakfast is typically a tartine (toast) and jam/croissant and a coffee. If you have an apartment, you can easily pick up a baguette for around 1 euro/ 1 euro 50 and butter at your local Monoprix for a few dollars as well as jam. This is the most cost effective. You can also get fresh orange juice at the grocery store for as little as 2 euros. It is my guilty pleasure and the machine juices it right in front of you. At a café, the price will be closer to 5 euros.

Croissants are around 1 euro to 1 euro 30 centime. You want to order a croissant au beurre not ordinaire.

If you need help on how to order at a Boulangerie, you can check out this post.

For enjoying a Parisian breakfast on a terrace. The price is around 8 – 13 euros.

My full list of favorites in Paris is located on this map.

If you drink your coffee at the bar versus drinking it at a table, the price is different. It will be around 1 euro – 1 euro 30 centime if you are drinking an expresso at the bar. At a table the cost would be 3 euros. A café crème can be around 2 euros to 2 euros 50 centime at the bar and around 5 euros at a table.

Be on the lookout for a bar menu at Parisian cafés. The prices will be posted where you can see them so you know what to expect.

A craft coffee spot such as Boot Café or Fragments (full list here) will run around 5 euros for take away or if you drink it there. The price will be the same.

Lunch in Paris

Lunch can be a great option to try a restaurant in Paris without breaking the bank. They have set menus which allow you to have an entreé + plat or a plat + dessert for a reduced price. Some restaurants will offer a plat du jour and that is the only special that is offered that day for the special menu. Make sure to ask your server.

This was lunch on a Saturday at a typical French spot in St Paul. Duck and a glass of wine was around 27 euros.

A smoked salmon plate which is plenty of food and a glass of wine at La Favorite in The Marais was under 20 euros.

Budget Friendly Options for Lunch in Paris

Chez Gladines is a favorite with students in Paris are there are several locations now.

L’as du Fallafel in The Marais is a great option for a cheap lunch. Take it to go and eat it at a nearby park.

Breizh Cafe for crêpes or galettes.

Le Progrès on Rue de Bretagne has steak friîtes for around 14 euros.

Miznon has two locations and is a personal favorite. It is an Israeli spot with locations on Canal St Martin and The Marais. Pita sandwiches will run around 10 euros

I recently ate at Petit Cambodge and loved it. Bobun was around 12 euros – 15 euros.

Au Petit Fer à Cheval offers a Plat du Jour for 13 euros and sandwiches for 5.50 euros.

You can also pick up a baguette sandwich at a local Boulangerie for around 5-7 euros and take it to any park if the weather is nice.

I love a good picnic. You can shop at a local Monoprix grocery or pick up a baguette and cheese at a local fromagerie.

L’Avant Comptoir can be an inexpensive lunch option as well.

Croque Monsieur will run you around 7-9 euros and a salad 12 -15 euros. I love the Caesar salad at Marcel.

Specify which type of water you want when you order. Un carafe d’eau will get you table water which is perfectly fine in Paris. If you order bottled water, it can run you around 5 euros. This is when wine cost the same as water.

For my Full List on Where to Eat and Drink in Paris

Wine can cost on average from 5 – 12 euros per glass.

Dinner Plats can average around 18-28 euros per person.

Tasting Menus are on average 68- 80 euros

Some to consider:

Verjus 68 (additional for wine parings)

Frenchie 74 Euros

Septime 80 euros.

Museum Pass

I highly recommend getting the Museum Pass if you are planning to visit a few museums in Paris. It will not only save you money but also, time! There are separate lines for museum pass holders which means less waiting. Versailles is a great example of saving time. Preorder yours online ahead of time or you can purchase them in Paris at the Tourists Office on Avenue de l’Opéra.

2 Days 48 Euros

4 Days 62 Euros

6 Days 74 Euros

Budget Friendly Hotels are around 125 – 150 a night. I rounded up 10 Budget Friendly Hotels in this blog post.

10 Boutique Hotels in Paris from Budget to Luxury

4 star hotels are around $200-$400 a night. 5 Star hotels can run around $400-$600 per night depending on the hotel.

A metro ticket is 1.90 euros per ride. You can buy a carnet (10 pack) for 14.90

Is there something I missed? Comment below if you have questions on the cost of additional things in Paris to help you budget your trip.

Bonjour, I’m Rebecca!

I’m a photographer, blogger, croissant-lover, and world traveler. I hope that Everyday Parisian inspires you by bringing a bit of France into your daily life and helps you plan the best trip to Paris with personalized recommendations for places to stay, explore, and eat.

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We got “skip the line” tickets online for everything we wanted to see when we were there two weeks ago. This was priceless, because the lines were crazy! We also signed up for tours that way. Thanks for the great tips, I wish I had seen this post before I went!

Thank you, Colleen! I hope you had a great trip. The skip the line tickets are so worth the additional money. Time is short and so valuable when you are traveling.

Can I just become your BFF and bring you with us next year when we go back to Paris??? 😜 Your articles are great and you should really write a book, because your info is so much more helpful than most travel sites when it comes to Paris. Merci’

Of course! When do we leave? I will mark my calendar. Thank you so much. I am so happy to help with your trip. I really hope you have the best time in Paris. I would love to write a book. It’s my dream.

Wonderful post! Thank you for sharing. Consider another travel post on what you’ve budgeted for one week to one month in various fave locations. Equally fascinating… Wishing you continued success & blessings!

Thank you so much! I can work on that when I am back in the Fall. That is a great idea.

I appreciate your support.

I never remember the cost of the coffee at the bar, I need to

yes! It works out so much better! Half the price 🙂

Very nice post. A Croissant costs the same as here in Graz. Maybe we are charging too much:)

Thank you! It may be the cost of butter 🙂

On the Metro tickets, we purchased a pass for so many days at the same place we got the museum pass and used only ONE ticket the whole time. It worked out better for us as we rode the Metro quite a lot and best of all we only had one ticket to keep up with. In the past it was frustrating to remember where the unused tickets were from the used in my pockets. My first trip to Paris with my daughter after her study abroad, we got a Navigo pass which worked even better.

Thank you, Victoria! That is great to note that the one ticket was much better than the carnet. They can get tricky trying to find the unused ones and keep them organized.

One thing I always recommend to girlfriends who go to Paris is the shopping / souvenir budget. I tell them whatever they had planned, to double it! Not so much for the expense but just walking by all the shops, they will find things they can’t resist / didn’t plan on buying.

Do you have favorite souvenirs you always bring back home?

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

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How Much Does A Vacation To Paris Cost

Published: November 30, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Lou Lilly

• Budget Travel
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Paris, the capital city of France, is a dream destination for many travelers around the world. Known for its iconic landmarks, rich history, exquisite cuisine, and romantic atmosphere, it is a city that captures the hearts of visitors. However, before embarking on a vacation to Paris, it is important to have a clear understanding of the associated costs. From transportation to accommodation, food to sightseeing, and shopping to miscellaneous expenses, all these factors contribute to the overall budget of your trip. By carefully planning and budgeting, you can ensure that your dream vacation to Paris fits within your financial means.

In this article, we will explore the various cost elements that you need to consider when planning a trip to Paris. We will provide insights into transportation costs, accommodation options, dining expenses, sightseeing and attractions fees, shopping expenses, and miscellaneous costs. By understanding these aspects, you will be better equipped to estimate the total cost of your vacation and make informed decisions on how to manage your budget.

Paris offers a wide range of choices, from budget-friendly options to luxurious experiences. Whether you are a backpacker looking for affordable accommodation or a high-end traveler seeking luxury hotels, Paris has something to offer for every budget. Similarly, when it comes to dining, you can find inexpensive local eateries, as well as Michelin-starred restaurants that cater to the most discerning palates.

Join us as we delve into the world of costs in Paris and discover how much a vacation to this enchanting city truly entails. By gaining insights into the expenses involved, you will be well-prepared to plan your trip and make the most of your time in the City of Light.

Transportation Costs

When it comes to getting around Paris, travelers have a variety of transportation options to choose from. The most convenient and efficient mode of transportation within the city is the Paris Métro, a comprehensive subway system that covers all major areas. With a single ticket, you can travel to any destination within the city, making it a cost-effective choice for exploring Paris.

The cost of a single ride on the Paris Métro is €1.90 ($2.10) if purchased individually. However, it is more economical to purchase a pass if you plan on using public transportation frequently during your stay. The Paris Visite pass offers unlimited travel on the Métro, buses, and RER trains within specified zones, with prices starting at €13.20 ($15) for a one-day pass. For longer stays, the Navigo Découverte card is a great option, providing unlimited access to public transport for a week at a cost of €22.80 ($26).

If you prefer to explore the city on foot or by bike, Paris offers numerous pedestrian-friendly areas, as well as bike-sharing programs like Vélib’. These options are not only cost-effective but also provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s charm and uncover hidden gems that may go unnoticed otherwise.

For those arriving in Paris by plane, transportation costs will include airport transfers. The most common options are buses, taxis, and airport shuttles. The cost of a one-way bus ticket from Charles de Gaulle Airport to central Paris is approximately €12 ($13.50), while a taxi ride can range from €50-€70 ($55-$80) depending on the distance and traffic conditions. Alternatively, shared shuttle services offer a more affordable option, with prices starting at around €18 ($20) per person.

It is also important to consider the cost of intercity transportation if you plan on exploring areas outside of Paris. Train tickets to popular destinations such as Versailles or Disneyland Paris can vary in price, but on average, expect to pay around €7-€15 ($8-$17) per ticket.

In summary, transportation costs in Paris will primarily depend on the mode of transport you choose and the frequency of your usage. By planning ahead and opting for travel passes or options like walking or biking, you can keep your transportation expenses budget-friendly while enjoying the convenience and accessibility of Parisian public transport.

Accommodation Costs

When it comes to finding accommodation in Paris, you have a wide range of options to suit your budget and preferences. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals, Paris offers something for every traveler.

For those seeking a luxury experience, there are numerous five-star hotels in prime locations throughout the city. Prices for these upscale accommodations can range from €250-€500 ($280-$565) per night, depending on the location and amenities offered. These hotels often provide luxurious facilities, including spa services, gourmet restaurants, and breathtaking views of the city.

If you are looking for more affordable options, Paris has a plethora of budget-friendly hotels and hostels that will help you save money without compromising on comfort. Budget hotels can range from €50-€150 ($55-$170) per night, while hostels offer even more economical choices, with prices starting as low as €20 ($23) per night for a dormitory-style room.

Another popular option among travelers is booking a vacation rental or an Airbnb. This not only provides a more personalized experience but can also be more cost-effective, especially for groups or longer stays. Prices for vacation rentals in Paris can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities, but generally range from €80-€200 ($90-$225) per night for a standard apartment. Keep in mind that prices may be higher during peak tourist seasons.

It is also worth considering staying in the outskirts of Paris, where accommodation tends to be more affordable. By using the efficient public transport system, you can easily access the city center while enjoying lower room rates. Suburban hotels and guesthouses can offer great value for money, with prices starting around €50 ($56) per night.

When booking accommodation, it is advisable to compare prices, read reviews, and consider the location in relation to the attractions you plan to visit. Additionally, be sure to check for any additional fees, such as city taxes or resort fees, which may not be included in the advertised rate.

In summary, accommodation costs in Paris can range significantly depending on the type of lodging and its location. By considering your budget, preferences, and the duration of your stay, you can find suitable accommodation that meets your needs and allows you to make the most of your Parisian adventure.

Food and Dining Costs

Exploring the culinary delights of Paris is a must-do for any visitor. From charming cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy every palate and budget.

When it comes to budget-friendly meals, Paris has an abundance of local cafes and bistros that offer delicious and affordable fare. A typical meal at a local cafe, which includes a main dish and a drink, can cost around €12-€20 ($14-$23) per person. These establishments often serve classic French dishes such as croque monsieur, quiche, and salads, providing a taste of authentic Parisian cuisine without breaking the bank.

If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, Paris is home to numerous acclaimed restaurants that boast Michelin stars. These establishments offer exquisite gourmet meals, expertly prepared by world-renowned chefs. Depending on the restaurant and the menu you choose, prices for a multi-course meal can range from €80-€300 ($90-$340) per person.

For a unique Parisian dining experience, consider visiting one of the city’s many street markets. From the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges to the vibrant Marché d’Aligre, these markets offer a wide selection of fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and more. You can purchase ingredients and create your own picnic or enjoy ready-to-eat food from the market vendors, allowing you to explore the local gastronomy while keeping costs at a minimum.

When it comes to beverages, Paris is known for its fine wine and café culture. A glass of wine at a restaurant or wine bar can range from €4-€10 ($4.50-$11.50), while a cup of coffee can cost approximately €2-€5 ($2.25-$5.65), depending on the location and type of establishment.

It is worth noting that tipping in Paris is not as common as in other countries, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is still customary to round up or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.

Overall, the cost of food and dining in Paris can vary depending on the type of establishment and the level of culinary experience you seek. By exploring a mix of local cafes, street markets, and occasional fine dining experiences, you can savor the flavors of Paris while managing your food expenses.

Sightseeing and Attractions Costs

Paris is renowned for its iconic landmarks and world-class attractions, offering a plethora of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are interested in art, history, or simply want to soak in the beauty of the city, there are various sights to explore in Paris.

One of the most popular attractions in Paris is the Eiffel Tower. Tickets to access the tower can range from €10-€25 ($11-$28), depending on the level you wish to visit and whether you choose to use the stairs or the elevator. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues and ensure availability.

Another must-visit attraction is the Louvre Museum, home to thousands of artworks, including the world-famous Mona Lisa. Admission to the Louvre costs €17 ($19) for general entry, and the museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of every month. It is important to note that the Louvre can be quite crowded, so consider visiting during off-peak hours to maximize your experience.

For those interested in experiencing the art scene of Paris, museums like the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou are also worth a visit. These museums showcase an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Admission prices for these museums range from €12-€14 ($13.50-$15.75).

Paris is also home to beautiful cathedrals and churches, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Entry to these religious sites is typically free, although there may be fees for certain areas within the buildings or for guided tours.

Exploring neighborhoods like Montmartre and the Latin Quarter, wandering along the Seine River, and visiting the charming streets of Le Marais are all popular and free activities that allow you to absorb the vibrant atmosphere of Paris.

To make the most of your sightseeing experience, consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass, which provides access to over 50 museums and attractions in the city. Prices for the pass start at €52 ($58) for a two-day pass and can save you both time and money.

In summary, sightseeing and attraction costs in Paris can vary depending on the specific places you choose to visit. By researching entry fees, planning your visits, and considering passes for multiple attractions, you can maximize your sightseeing experiences while still managing your expenses.

Shopping Costs

Paris is renowned as a fashion capital and a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide array of shopping experiences for every style and budget. From high-end designer boutiques to bustling street markets, the city provides endless opportunities for a retail therapy session.

One of the most famous shopping destinations in Paris is the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This iconic street is lined with luxurious stores, including flagship stores of high-end brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Shopping on the Champs-Élysées can be a lavish experience, with prices varying depending on the brand and item you are interested in.

For those seeking more affordable options, the city is teeming with department stores and shopping centers offering a diverse range of products. The Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché are two renowned department stores that showcase a blend of high-end and mid-range brands, while Forum des Halles and Les Halles in the Marais district are popular shopping centers offering a mix of fashion, accessories, and home goods.

Paris is also famous for its street markets, where you can find an array of unique items, including antiques, vintage clothing, artwork, and local crafts. The Saint-Ouen Flea Market, located in the north of Paris, is one of the largest and most renowned flea markets in the world, with a vast selection of eclectic treasures.

Keep in mind that VAT (value-added tax) is included in the prices of goods in Paris. As a non-European Union resident, you are eligible for tax refunds on purchases above a certain amount. Be sure to inquire about the tax refund process and retain the necessary paperwork when making eligible purchases.

When it comes to budgeting for shopping in Paris, it is essential to set a realistic spending limit and prioritize your shopping preferences. Whether you are looking for high-end luxury items, unique souvenirs, or stylish fashion pieces, Paris offers something for everyone.

Remember to compare prices, look for sales and discounts, and explore different neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and local boutiques. With careful planning, you can enjoy a memorable shopping experience in the fashion capital without breaking the bank.

Miscellaneous Expenses

When planning a vacation to Paris, it’s important to consider the miscellaneous expenses that may arise during your trip. These expenses may vary depending on your personal preferences and interests, but here are some common miscellaneous costs to keep in mind.

Firstly, if you plan on using your mobile phone or accessing the internet while in Paris, it is wise to budget for the cost of data roaming or purchasing a local SIM card. Mobile service providers offer various plans and options, so be sure to research and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Additionally, tipping for services such as dining out, hotel staff, and taxis is customary in Paris. While not obligatory, it is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants and round up the fare when using taxis.

If you’re interested in experiencing the renowned nightlife of Paris, be prepared to budget for the cost of drinks and entertainment. Paris has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues across the city.

Another miscellaneous expense to consider is travel insurance. While it is not mandatory, having travel insurance provides peace of mind in case of any unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Lastly, souvenir shopping is a common part of any travel experience. Whether you’re purchasing small trinkets, local specialties, or high-end luxury items, be sure to allocate a budget for souvenirs to bring back a piece of Paris with you.

It’s worth noting that prices for miscellaneous expenses can vary widely depending on individual preferences and choices. To avoid overspending, it’s advisable to set a budget and prioritize the activities and purchases that are most important to you.

By keeping these miscellaneous expenses in mind and budgeting accordingly, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Paris without any financial surprises along the way.

Total Cost of a Vacation to Paris

Now that we have explored the various cost elements of a vacation to Paris, let’s add everything up to estimate the total cost you can expect to incur during your trip.

The total cost of a vacation to Paris will depend on factors such as the duration of your stay, your choice of accommodation, dining preferences, and the number of attractions you plan to visit. It’s important to note that costs can vary widely depending on individual preferences and travel styles.

As a rough estimate, a reasonable budget for a one-week trip to Paris, including accommodation, transportation, food, attractions, shopping, and miscellaneous expenses, can range between €1,500-€2,500 ($1,700-$2,800) per person.

Here’s a breakdown of possible costs for a week-long trip to Paris:

• Accommodation: €500-€1,000 ($565-$1,130) depending on the type and location of the lodging.
• Transportation: €50-€100 ($56-$113) for public transportation passes and airport transfers.
• Food and dining: €300-€500 ($340-$565) for meals and drinks.
• Sightseeing and attractions: €150-€300 ($170-$340) for entrance fees to popular attractions and museums.
• Shopping: €200-€500 ($225-$565) for souvenirs and miscellaneous purchases.
• Miscellaneous expenses: €100-€200 ($113-$225) for mobile services, tips, travel insurance, and nightlife.

These are general estimates and can vary depending on your personal preferences and spending habits. It’s important to carefully plan and budget your trip to ensure you can comfortably cover all the necessary expenses without overspending.

Keep in mind that prices for accommodations and attractions may be higher during peak seasons, so it’s advisable to book in advance and compare prices to secure the best deals.

By having a clear understanding of the potential costs involved, you can plan your budget accordingly and enjoy a memorable vacation in the enchanting city of Paris.

A vacation to Paris offers a captivating experience filled with beauty, culture, and culinary delights. By considering the various costs associated with transportation, accommodation, dining, sightseeing, shopping, and miscellaneous expenses, you can plan your trip and budget accordingly to make the most of your time in the City of Light.

Paris provides a wide range of options to suit every budget, from affordable accommodation and local eateries to high-end luxury experiences. With careful planning, it is possible to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and indulge in its renowned cuisine without breaking the bank.

Remember to research and compare prices, book accommodations and attractions in advance, and take advantage of travel passes and discounts to optimize your spending. Be mindful of your preferences and prioritize the experiences that matter most to you, whether it’s visiting world-class museums, strolling through charming neighborhoods, or discovering hidden gems in local markets.

In the end, the total cost of a vacation to Paris will depend on your personal choices and spending habits. By setting a realistic budget and keeping track of your expenses, you can ensure a memorable and financially manageable trip to one of the most enchanting cities in the world.

So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the rich history and captivating ambiance of Paris, and create lifelong memories in this timeless and elegant city.

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Is Paris Expensive? What You Need To Know (2024)

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: April 3, 2023  - Last updated: February 28, 2024

Is Paris expensive?

Known for its distinct culture, fascinating history, and aesthetic appeal, Paris is one of the world’s most visited cities. Everyone can find something to love in Paris, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the renowned Louvre Museum .

However, the city has also earned a reputation for being expensive, and many people wonder whether they can afford to visit.

In this post, we will delve into the cost of visiting Paris and provide tips on how to make the most of your budget without compromising on the experience.

So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, join me as we discover whether Paris is indeed as expensive as its reputation suggests.

Learn more about typical expenses of a vacation to Paris, as well as suggestions for cutting costs while in the City of Light .

Things you'll find in this article

Cost of Vacation in Paris

2. accommodations, 4. getting around, 5. experiences, average cost of living in paris, paris versus lyon , paris versus marseille , paris versus nice , 1. book your travel during the off-season, 2. how to save money on accommodation in paris, 3. take advantage of the efficient metro system., 4. see paris attractions for free, 5. eat like a local, paris travel calculator.

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Yes, Paris does have a reputation for being an expensive city to travel to and live in. The cost of living, as well as the cost of visiting and getting around, are notoriously expensive there.

The cost of living, dining, and going out in Paris may be more than in other European cities.

Paris has expensive rents, especially in the city’s most desirable neighborhoods like the Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Champs-Elysées. The average price per square meter of a home in Paris is greater than in other major European cities.

Food and household items are generally more expensive in Paris than in other cities, and dining out may be especially pricey at high-end establishments.

Paris’s public transit system is efficient, but it may be pricey as well. One ride on the subway will set you back about 1.90 euros.

Last but not least, as one of the world’s most visited cities, Paris is known for its high hotel, attraction, and tour rates throughout the summer months.

However, there are ways to see Paris without spending a fortune. With some forethought and prudence, you may experience the city’s rich history, culture , and cuisine without breaking the bank.

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Your Parisian getaway expenses hinge on various factors such as duration, travel preferences, and accommodation and dining choices. 

If you are visiting Paris soon, here are the things to consider when planning a trip to the city of love:

Average Expenses During a Paris Trip

The average economy airfare from the United States to Paris can range from around $260 to $500 or more, based on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance the ticket is purchased.

Round-trip economy airfare can range from $500 to $1000 or more, based on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. Prices can also differ depending on the departure city within the United States and the specific airport in Paris.

The cost of accommodations in Paris varies greatly based on the type of lodging and the area of the city in question. The following are the typical hotel prices in Paris:

• Budget lodgings in Paris typically range between 30 and 100 euros per night. Hostels, budget hotels, and Airbnb accommodations are examples of budget stays in Paris.
• In Paris, mid-range lodgings typically cost between 100 and 250 euros per night. These include three and four-star hotels as well as flats. These accommodations are more spacious, have superior amenities, and are more comfortable than budget accommodations.
• Luxury lodgings in Paris can cost between 250 and several thousand euros per night. There are 5-star hotels, luxury apartments, and private houses among them. Luxury accommodations provide high-end amenities, personalized services, and ideal metropolitan locations.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Whatever your budget, Paris has something excellent to offer in terms of food.

• Street Food: Generally, street food in Paris costs between €5 and €10 per individual. Crepes, falafel, and a variety of sandwiches are popular street meals in Paris.
• Budget Restaurants: In Paris, inexpensive restaurants usually charge €10-€20 per person for a meal. These may include small cafes, bistros, and brasseries that serve simple but tasty French food.
• Midrange: Midrange restaurants in Paris typically charge between €30 and €50 per individual for a meal. These may include trendy bistros, modern restaurants, and some Michelin-starred places.
• Fine Dining: A meal at an upscale or Michelin-starred eatery in Paris will cost you between €100 and €300 per person. These places frequently provide elaborate tasting menus, outstanding service, and a sophisticated dining experience.
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Paris has a comprehensive public transit system that includes buses, metro, trams, and RER trains. The cost of taking public transportation in Paris is determined by the type of ticket and the length of time used.

• Single-use metro/bus/tram ticket (also known as t+ ticket): €1.90
• 10-pack of t+ tickets: €16.90
• 1-day unlimited travel ticket (Mobilis): €7.50-€18.00 (depending on the zones covered)
• 1-day unlimited travel ticket for weekends and public holidays (Ticket Jeunes Weekend): €4.10
• Paris Visite travel pass (1-5 days): €13.20-€65.80 (depending on the zones covered and the duration of use)
• Navigo pass (weekly or monthly): €22.80-€75.20 (depending on the zones covered)

The cost of admission to Paris attractions varies significantly based on the attraction, time of year, and age of the visitor. Here are some general estimates for famous Paris attractions:

• The cost of admission to the Eiffel Tower varies according to the level you wish to explore. Adult prices vary from €10.20 to €28.50. Children under the age of four are free, and children aged four to eleven pay a reduced fee.
• The Louvre Museum entry fee is €17 for adults, and it is free for visitors under the age of 18, EU residents under the age of 26, and on the first Sunday of each month from October to March.
• Notre-Dame church: Admission to Notre-Dame Cathedral is free, but certain areas or exhibits within the church may charge a fee.
• Arc de Triomphe: Admission to the Arc de Triomphe is €13 for adults and free for those under the age of 18.

Living in Paris can cost anywhere from €2,000 to €2,500 per month, depending on your preferences. 

A studio apartment in a prime location in Paris can go for €800-€1,500 per month, while a larger flat in the same neighborhood can cost up to 3,000 EUR, or more. 

Parisian food prices fluctuate greatly between neighborhoods. Indulging in a fancy dinner for two can set you back €40 to €80, while a budget-friendly meal for two costs €15 to €29. Parisian milk, bread, and cheese are pricier than those in other European capitals.

While a single metro ticket in Paris costs roughly €1.90, public transit in the city is convenient yet pricey. Enjoy limitless rides on public transportation with a monthly pass priced at around €80-€90.

Paris is a cultural hub with renowned museums and galleries charging $12-$18 per person for entry. Catch a flick for €12-€15 or splurge on a live event for $40+.

Surviving in Paris can be challenging due to its exorbitant expenses. Paris can be pricey, so plan to stay solvent.

• Rent (studio/small 1 bedroom for solo) €1,000
• Utilities (Electricity, gas, water, cell phone/internet) €150 
• Food (groceries + eating out) €500
• Sports (Gym) and Entertainment (movies, bars, tours) €150
• Transport €100

Comparing Cost in Paris to Other European Cities

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France boasts of two of its most popular vacation spots, Paris and Lyon, that are known for their distinctive charm and allure. These destinations offer unique attractions and experiences. Paris is a city that boasts an array of captivating attractions and activities. From the world-renowned Eiffel Tower to the illustrious Louvre Museum, the city is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks. Paris is also renowned for its vivacious culture and vibrant nightlife, making it a destination that truly has something for everyone. 

Lyon, on the other hand, boasts of its rich historical architecture that includes the awe-inspiring Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the charming Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon). It has also earned a well-deserved reputation as the gastronomic hub of France, where foodies can indulge in a culinary adventure like no other.

When it comes to the weather, both cities boast a continental climate that brings scorching summers and chilly winters. Lyon, being situated in the southern region, enjoys a tad more warmth than Paris.

When it comes to the travel costs, Lyon is usually a more budget-friendly option compared to Paris. Lyon offers a more budget-friendly experience compared to Paris when it comes to accommodation, food, and transportation expenses. Indeed, both cities present many possibilities to suit various budgets, thereby enabling one to discover pocket-friendly alternatives in either location.

For those with a penchant for the finer things in life such as art, history, and culture, Paris would undoubtedly be the ultimate destination. For those with a passion for food and a desire to delve into the regional cuisine, Lyon could very well be the ultimate destination.

Both Paris and Marseille offer an array of distinctive attractions and experiences. Paris is a city that never fails to impress with its plethora of attractions and activities. The city is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks that will leave you spellbound. But that’s not all – Paris is also famous for its vibrant culture and nightlife, which will leave you wanting more. So, whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a party animal, Paris has something for everyone. 

On the flip side, Marseille is renowned for its picturesque seaside setting and plethora of outdoor pursuits. From basking in the sun-kissed beaches to discovering the charming Old Port, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had. Not to mention, a visit to the Calanques National Park is an absolute must for nature enthusiasts.

Marseille boasts a delightful Mediterranean climate, where winters are mild and summers are sizzling. On the other hand, Paris flaunts a continental climate, where winters are chilly and summers are pleasantly warm.

When it comes to travel expenses, Marseille usually proves to be a more budget-friendly option than Paris. Marseille, being a city of vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, offers a more affordable experience compared to the bustling metropolis of Paris. 

For those with a penchant for art, history, and culture, Paris could very well be the ultimate destination. For those seeking a seaside getaway brimming with exciting outdoor pursuits, Marseille could very well be the ultimate destination.

Paris is a city that never ceases to amaze with its plethora of attractions and activities. It is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks that will leave you spellbound. The city of Nice is renowned for its picturesque coastline, alluring Old Town, and its close proximity to the French Riviera.

Nice boasts a delightful Mediterranean climate that gifts the city abundant sunshine and warmth, making it a stark contrast to Paris’ continental climate. If you’re seeking a sun-kissed getaway, then Nice could be the ultimate destination for you.

When it comes to travel expenses, Paris tends to be a tad pricier than Nice. In  expenses like lodging, sustenance, and getting around, Paris tends to be a bit pricier compared to Nice. Indeed, both cities present many possibilities to cater to various preferences, thereby enabling one to discover budget alternatives in either destination.

In the end, for those with a penchant for art, a fascination with history, and a love for culture, Paris could very well be the ultimate destination. For a serene and laid-back seaside getaway, Nice could be the ultimate destination to set your sights on.

Tips for Saving Money in Paris

Discover the allure of the stunning city of Paris, where a plethora of captivating attractions awaits your exploration.

However, it’s important to note that this enchanting destination can come with a hefty price tag. Discover six savvy ways to save money while exploring the beautiful city of Paris:

Paris is a highly sought-after destination during the summer months, which means that the cost of hotels and airfare tends to be higher than usual.

As the temperatures rise and the flowers bloom , the high season for tourism begins in the spring and continues through the sunny summer months.

Exploring the world can be an enriching experience, and if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can save a considerable amount of money. 

By planning your trip during off-peak seasons, such as January / February or late October / November , you can take advantage of better deals on flights and hotels. This way, you can enjoy your travels without breaking the bank. 

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• Choose to stay at a hotel located in an affordable district .

The arrondissement you select in Paris can significantly impact the expense of your lodging. Paris is a city that offers a wide range of neighborhoods to explore, each with its unique charm and character.

While iconic areas like the Eiffel Tower , Louvre , and Champs-Élysées may come with a higher price tag, there are plenty of other neighborhoods that offer more affordable options.

For example, Montmartre , Montparnasse, The Latin Quarter , and Le Marais are all great areas to explore without breaking the bank. 

• Ensure that your lodging provides breakfast as part of its amenities.

To fully enjoy your stay in Paris, it’s highly recommended to opt for a hotel that offers breakfast as part of its package.

This way, you can start your day with a delicious meal without having to worry about additional expenses. Reducing expenses on meals can significantly contribute to managing your budget effectively. 

To save money and avoid the hassle of buying individual tickets, consider purchasing a Carnet of tickets. This convenient option allows you to have multiple tickets on hand for multiple rides, making your travels more seamless and enjoyable. 

Paris boasts an excellent public transportation system that provides a convenient and efficient way to navigate the city.

Discovering the city’s top tourist destinations is a breeze with the well-connected metro system that boasts stations conveniently located near all major attractions.

Did you know that you can save money on your metro rides by purchasing a pack of 10 tickets at a discounted price?

These packs are available for purchase at the ticket machines in English or at the ticket booths where you can also receive assistance from a friendly staff member. 

Exploring the iconic attractions of Paris doesn’t always require shelling out money to get from point A to B. There are plenty of ways to appreciate these landmarks without spending a dime.

• You can see the Eiffel Tower from any of the various vantage points throughout the city.
• Unless you want to walk up to the observation deck, visiting the Arc de Triomphe won’t cost you a dime.
• The Champs Elysees is a tourist attraction in its own right. You can reach the Arc de Triomphe by taking a stroll down the street and looking at the sights and people.
• Both the Louvre and the Jardin du Luxembourg feature stunning gardens that are dotted with works of art.
• Packages that include a trip along the Seine and access to the second level of the Eiffel Tower without waiting in line are also available.

To book this tour click here.

Lunch specials are available. Get the prix fixe lunch menu if you must eat out. (two or three-course set menu). This lunchtime menu is offered at several of the city’s restaurants for a much more reasonable €15 to €25.

Visit outside markets to pick up some lunch. There are numerous food markets located all across the city of Paris.

The best way to save money on food is to visit a local market, stock up on cheese, wine, bread, meats, and anything else that sounds good, and have a picnic in the park. (Or just pack a lunch!) The locals eat like this all the time, so you know it’s a good way to experience authentic French cuisine.

Get some staples from the supermarket. Saving money on food is as simple as doing some grocery shopping. They stock everything from pantry staples to fully-cooked dinners. Wine is also available for purchase there.

Do you want to know how much you will spend on a trip to Paris based on the number of days and budget type?

Please note that this is only an estimate and pricing might differ based on season and areas where you’re staying or eating in Paris. Expect higher prices in touristy areas and during high season. The current cost estimates were also adjusted for inflation and does not include airfare.

Discovering the City of Lights need not be a costly affair. With some foresight and a willingness to make a few adjustments, it is entirely feasible to explore Paris without breaking the bank.

Paris is undoubtedly a stunning and lively city that offers a lot to its residents. However, it’s worth noting that the cost of living in this city can be quite high.

Living in Paris on a budget is achievable with some smart spending strategies and a willingness to make some compromises.

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Is Paris Expensive?

Paris is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Europe. Whilst there are cheap and free activities, the city is famous for its art galleries and fine dining that you won’t want to miss completely when visiting Paris. In this Paris travel budget, we break down the cost of accommodation, transport, activities, eating out and wine in Paris.

There’s no escaping the fact that Paris is an expensive city to visit. Budget €180 daily per person for a visit to Paris , or €540 per person for a long weekend (3 nights). If you plan to eat out in restaurants for lunch as well as dinner, increase your budget up to €200 per person per day.

During our weekend trip in February, we spent €60/£50 each per day not including flights and accommodation. Adding in accommodation costs, our daily spend was closer to £150/€180 each.

Average Costs in Paris:

Here is a breakdown of the average costs in Paris:

How To Travel on a Budget in Paris

There are ways to keep costs down. The best way to reduce your travel budget in Paris is to:

• Avoid taxis and take the metro or the bus instead
• Enjoy more free activities such as walking along the River Seine, to Paris’ parks and up Montmartre
• Plan your visit to include the first Sunday of the month when The Louvre and other major museums are free
• Minimise eating in restaurants, and instead buy a baguette and cheese for lunch from a local shop
• Stay in a cheaper part of the city and take the metro into the centre for the day

Whilst there are free and cheap activities in the city, this is mostly weather dependent. Being outside in the parks and exploring the streets is great in good weather, but in the winter months it’s too cold and wet to spend too much time outside. Not to mention, Paris has some of the best art galleries in the world, so you’ll want to budget enough to visit at least a few of those.

Cost of Flights or the Eurostar to Paris

If you’re travelling from London to Paris, expect to pay around £100-150 for return flights departing on a Friday and returning on a Monday. During the summer months, flights may be more expensive because it is high season. From London Gatwick, the flight time is a short 40 minutes. Once you arrive in Paris, you can take the metro from the airport to the city centre for €10.30.

Cheap Flights Tip!  We use  Skyscanner  to check prices and book our flights. When you search on Skyscanner, select “full month” to see which dates have the lowest prices.

The other alternative is to take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. The train takes 2 and a half hours, but is a more sustainable option than flying. It’s estimated that the Eurostar produces 80% less carbon emissions than a short-haul flight but if you do fly, you can offset your carbon emissions . Eurostar prices vary significantly depending on the days of the week and the season.

Cost of Transport in Paris

Paris is a big city, but fortunately there are multiple budget-friendly transport options. Whilst taxis are expensive, the bus and the metro are reasonably priced and can take you across the city. A day ticket for the metro €13.90 per person, or a single ticket is €1.90. It’s also possible to buy a pack of 10 metro tickets.

We spent a long weekend in Paris, but mostly walked and took the odd single-ticket metro journey. As our hotel was located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it was very central and therefore we didn’t need to buy a metro day pass during our trip to Paris. More budget conscious travellers though may opt for cheaper accommodation outside of the main city centre and buy a daily metro pass to get into the centre of Paris.

Paris also has rental bikes and electric scooters available across the city. You’ll need to download the app and connect a payment card in order to use them, but once you’ve got the app downloaded, you can pick up a bicycle or scooter from most street corners. Just remember to park it up in a designated bay when you’re done.

Cost of Accommodation in Paris

Accommodation in Paris is expensive. For city centre hotels, expect to pay €100 per night minimum for a double room with many of the nicer hotels charging €200+ per night. Hotel prices are less in low season and ramp up in the summer months.

We were kindly invited to stay at the Hotel Bel Ami , which is very central at just a 15-minute walk from the Louvre and boasts a Green Key sustainability certification. However, the hotel is pricey at €200+ per night. This is the expected price for boutique and luxury hotels in the city centre of Paris.

If you’re travelling on a tighter budget, look for hotels or hostels further from the main city centre which are close to metro stops. Paris is well-connected by metro, so as long as you’re near to a stop then you’ll be able to easily reach the city centre. For the most budget conscious travellers, try looking for homestays in Paris . These tend to be the cheapest accommodation options.

Cost of Activities in Paris

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to activities in Paris. The city is home to incredible art galleries, museums and churches, as well as the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. Here are the prices of top activities in Paris:

• Entry ticket to the Eiffel Tower with lift to the top – €26.80
• Seine River boat cruise – €17
• Louvre entry ticket – €17
• Musee l’Orangerie entry ticket – €12.50
• Musee d’Orsay entry ticket – €16
• Pantheon entry ticket – €11.50
• Sacré-Coeur entry – Free

For many, the highlight of a trip to Paris is visiting its many excellent art galleries and museums. Entrance tickets to the museums soon add up, but in our opinion are entirely worth the cost. If museums are high on your list of things to do in Paris and you know you’re going to visit a lot of them, consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass. Bear in mind though, if you’re on a weekend break, you may need to be more selective. The Louvre is so large, you could easily spend the whole day just there!

Watch Our Trip: See our full Paris trip on Instagram Stories

If like us, you prefer to be more spontaneous and are unsure which galleries and museums you want to see, or what other activities you want to do in Paris, consider getting yourself a Paris Passlib (city pass). This app allows you to buy a pass for multiple activities and simply choose from the app as you go. We found the city pass great for last-minute museum visits when we hadn’t booked tickets in advance (most of the museums, especially due to COVID-19, require advanced ticket bookings). However, the Passlib didn’t work well for the Louvre.

The other option is to book activities through Get Your Guide, which as ‘bundle’ offers with cheaper prices for combined activities.

Cost of Restaurants, Food and Wine in Paris

Is Paris expensive for eating out? Yes, for the most-part restaurants in Paris are expensive with prices similar to what you’ll see in London, and especially so in the city centre near to the museums. Expect to pay €12-20 for a main in a sit-down restaurant and €5-8 for a glass of wine.

However, there are ways to eat on a budget in the city. For lunches, we stopped by a bakery for a baguette (€2.60) and a small shop for some cheese and tomatoes (€2.90) to make our own sandwiches. This is the perfect budget option if it’s picnic-weather or you’re not too far from your hotel room.

We visited in February, which meant the evenings were chilly so we always wanted a sit-down place in the evening. Prioritising spending our budget on wine over food, we often picked out wine bars and opted to snack on cheese, bread or other small plates. A cheese board costs around €14 and a small plate of bread with toppings is usually around €10.

Our favourite places to eat in Paris were:

• Boulangerie Eric Kayser (budget)
• Filakia, Petit Café d’Athènes (budget)
• Cicchetti Wine Bar (lower mid-range)
• La Grande Crèmerie (mid-range)

Charlie Marchant

Is Barcelona Expensive? How Much to Budget Per Day

Paris’ sustainable city centre hotel – bel ami.

very well written and useful…simple language and clear expression…Make more about more cities…

Very useful article! O agree on most aspects… but hotel and meals. I am French and I won’tbtake a burger or a sandwich for meal… this is sinply not an healthy option. Whatever decent meal, without wine is surely notth of 40€ for lunch (average bisttot, nothing fabcy). Same for hotel, with algorithms, rooms tend to skyrocket very quickly. If there is any event, fair in town, an humble 3stars start at 180-200, not luxury or boutique hotel…!

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Is Paris Expensive to Visit? Trip Costs And Budgets

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: May 2, 2024

Everybody loves Paris, including us. The French capital has a cultural symbol and status that not many other cities can even hold a candle to. It oozes class, cuisine, and art. And with a slightly gritty chip on its shoulder, it has a real personality that challenges and stimulates millions of visitors a year.

Whether you take a day trip to Paris or stay for a week, you’ll take astounding views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. You’ll sample delicious cuisine and peer through the bars at the only vineyard in Paris, or check out the eerie Catacombs before sightseeing the Louvre Museum after hours. There’s so much to do and see. With that in mind, it’s no wonder you are wondering about the cost of your trip to Paris. Is Paris expensive to visit?

In this guide, we’ll answer exactly that. How much you spend on your Paris vacation depends on whether your travel budget is low, mid-range, or luxury. To help you arrive prepared, we’ll give you a budget for each category. After 5 trips to Paris, I think we know what we are talking about.

Table of Contents

Accommodation Costs in Paris

There’s no denying it; accommodation in Paris can get a little steep. And if you aren’t just taking a day trip to Paris, there’s no avoiding this major cost.

The thing is that there’s just so much novelty to be had in Paris. With landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, there’s no wonder that you have hotel rooms at $1,000s of dollars a night. But with that said, if you book far enough in advance, the French city does come into its own in the mid-range department.

The average hotel room price in Paris is around $130 a night, which is reasonable compared to the rest of Western Europe. The issue is more in Paris’ popularity; it’s a victim of its own success in the sense that modestly priced rooms sell out quickly. It is such an iconic city that it tempts people towards more expensive accommodation in the name of “landmark views.” You can see how it built up a reputation as being costly.

It’s also worth noting that hotel prices vary depending on your desired location. If you want to stay in the city center, your total accommodation cost will inevitably be higher. However, you’ll save hundreds if you’re happy to stay on the outskirts and take a “day trip” 20 minutes or so by Metro into the city center. The 14th Arrondissement, 10th Arrondissement, and 13th Arrondissement are all outskirt neighborhoods that offer more moderately priced accommodation.

Budget Accommodation

The one frustrating aspect of budget travel is trying to cut costs on accommodation. There are many mid-range affordable places to stay, but—and we hate to be the bearers of bad news—there is nowhere near the amount of true budget accommodation in the city center. Accommodation is almost guaranteed to be the biggest factor in your trip to Paris.

With that said, if you’re willing to try hostels in Arrondissements further out, you could have a winner. You swap a traditional hotel room for a dormitory setup and get access to communal areas like a kitchen, reducing your spending on food since you can store and use groceries. Check out some of the following options:

• UCPA Sports Station Hostel Paris : $30 per night.
• Beau M Paris : $35 per night.
• Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels : $40 per night.

Mid-Range Accommodation

Mid-range hotels are dotted all over Paris. However, these are the most popular choices, providing comfort and central locations for more modest rates. Because of this, you need to be tactical in your planning process. You want to bag the perfect accommodation, and so does everyone else. So make sure you book ahead when choosing a mid-range budget for your Paris vacation.

Here are a few examples of mid-range hotel costs in Paris:

• Hotel Eiffel Blomet : $240 per night
• Hotel 31 : $220 per night.
• Hotel Eden Opera : $200 per night.

Luxury Accommodation

Central Paris is full of luxury accommodations, many of which overlook iconic places like the Eiffel Tower or the Seine River. The expensive city center is well worth splurging on if you want to be within walking distance of major attractions when you visit Paris. And you get access to better views, facilities, and a more upscale experience overall.

Don’t get us wrong; luxury accommodation doesn’t come cheap in Paris. But it is definitely worth it for those with some wiggle room in their budget:

• Le Parisis:  $400 upwards per night.
• Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel : $450 upwards per night.
• Hotel Lutetia : $2,000 upwards per night.

What About Getting There? Flying To Paris Cost

Of course, your largest budget factor will be actually getting to Paris. Depending on where you’re flying from, it could cost anywhere from $40 to $1,000, so we’ll give you a few different examples in a second. Knowing the general airfares is handy when calculating your trip to Paris cost.

You need to know that the main airport in Paris is CDG Airport (Charles de Gaulle Airport), which is a short ride on public transport from the city center. It is a large airport with direct flights all over the world. While flight prices rise in peak travel season, you can expect reliable services with some of the most competitive rates in Europe.

Here are a few of the most common round-trip fares from around the world, presuming you book in advance:

• New York to Paris:  $400-600
• Los Angeles to Paris:  $500-700
• London to Paris:  $100-200
• Rome to Paris:  $100-150
• Dubai to Paris : $400-600
• Sydney to Paris : $800-1,000

As you can see, flying within Europe is the cheapest option. Flying from the US costs around $400-700, depending on whether you fly from the east or west coast. The Middle East, like Dubai, has similar fares, while Oceania is by far the most expensive place to fly from, at around $1,000 for return flights.

As a quick note, though, for those traveling within Europe, hit pause for a second.  Did you know that Paris has some pretty strict rules on taking short-haul flights when you have overland alternatives? Research train routes before booking short flights within mainland Europe.

Transportation Costs in Paris Once You Arrive

Transportation costs in Paris aren’t going to break the bank unless you take a private taxi everywhere (which, by the way, isn’t even efficient because Parisian traffic sucks). The most effective way to get around is on foot or by Metro. The Metro offers tickets at just a few euros for a single trip, so you can get around using public transportation for barely any money. Metro stations, including Charles De Gaulle Airport connections, are all over the city.

Paris has straggling suburbs, but its main tourist area is super compact. You are never more than a 20-minute Metro ride from other attractions, and really, you can walk everywhere if you stay centrally.

If you’re planning a day trip, like heading to the Palace of Versailles, you may use other forms of public transportation. Paris has a great bus and train network connecting it to other cities and attractions. Car rentals are also possible, but not for the faint of heart, as Paris is notoriously chaotic for driving. If you don’t believe us, just Google a picture of the Arc de Triomphe roundabout.

In this section, we’ll break down the costs per transport type, giving you a final summary of a suggested transportation budget for each travel style.

The Metro is the best way to get around Paris, costing only 2.10 euros for a single ticket. There are Metro stations all around the city, and it’s a realistic way to complete your ideal Paris itinerary. With more than 380 stations, you’ve got so many options. The Metro stays open until just before 1 a.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Getting tickets is super simple; ticket machines at every station take cards or cash. Alternatively, you can book multi-day tickets for unlimited travel. These machines and Metro carts are always crowded in tourist areas. Still, the effect of safety in numbers is great for deterring crime. Just be wary of your pockets, especially during peak hours.

The Metro is an excellent form of public transportation that can be used to save money.

Gare du Nord is Paris’s rail hub. While trains are not used to get around the city itself, they can be used to make the most of public transport to other nearby big cities. From Paris, you can catch the train to Lilles, London , and even cities like Rome . You can also take day trips to places around North France.

All tickets are available to buy at Gare du Nord’s machines, and it’s a great way to avoid car rentals (more information below). It’s a sustainable and cost-effective way to utilize public transportation for a perfect trip to Paris, including day trips.

Okay, a word on car rentals. For most of you, renting a car is an absolutely awful idea. Why? Because traffic is appalling in Paris, the roads are stressful, and public transportation is faster and cheaper.

Now, we realize that sounds strongly worded. So, what’s the exemption to the rule? A rental car could be helpful if you’re a very confident driver, used to tackling European cities, and are planning multiple-day trip adventures. Or if you’re planning on road-tripping through Europe after visiting Paris. If that doesn’t apply to you, hop straight on to find out what to budget for Paris trains and Metro services.

Budget Travel Style: $5-10

We’d allocate a total cost of $5-10 a day to public transportation a day if you’re experiencing Paris on a budget. This will allow you to factor in staying in further-away neighborhoods.

Mid-Range Travel Style: $5

Ironically, we’d actually factor in $5 to travel to Paris via public transportation when traveling mid-range style. You are more likely to be staying central, meaning you can walk easily to major attractions.

Luxury Travel Style: $5-20

Factor in less than $5 to get around with a luxury travel style in Paris since you’ll be walking most places with a central hotel location. As a slight twist, though, we’d suggest allowing a few Ubers or taxis here and there ($20-30 per spend). You might want that extra luxury if heading back from dinner late or it gets rainy.

Food Prices in Paris

It makes sense that you’ll have a large food budget when visiting Paris. It is a hub of world-renowned cuisine (we love French food) and is literally known for this. Whether you’re getting brave with snails or biting down on colorful macaroons, you’ll love the food in Paris. So how much food and drink should be allocated from your main budget?

In short, it is person-dependent, so we’re tackling this from a three-travel type angle. Even if you just take a day trip to Paris, sampling the delicious cuisine will be a priority. It’s safe to say that there are a few places to try lovely food. In this section, we’ll give you the rundown on budgeting for food in this beautiful city.

Budget Food: Less than $20 a day

For the sake of this section, we’ll assume that you are staying somewhere with self-catered accommodation. This means you’ll be relying primarily on groceries and home cooking. That should allow you to stick to a budget of $20 daily, with a little flexibility here and there.

Mid-Range Food: Around $45 a day

When calculating a mid-range trip to Paris cost, food should be around $45. This assumes that you have breakfast included at your hotel and will be eating out for a casual lunch and dinner for approximately $20 per sit-down meal.

Luxury Food: Upwards of $100 a day

A luxury food budget gets its additional cost from the class of restaurant, incorporating a fine dining-type for dinner. This could include a prix fixe menu or just a la carte. $100 will be sufficient if you have breakfast included in your hotel reservation. You can then go for a casual lunch for around $20 and a fancy dinner for about $80.

Cost of Activities in Paris

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, chances are you’ve already got a list of the iconic landmarks and exciting museums you want to see. The Mona Lisa, Notre Dame Cathedral, Seine River, Louvre Pyramid, and Eiffel Tower are all located in central Paris. So it’s no surprise that visitors allocate a large budget for sightseeing.

There are Paris-based activities to suit all budgets, and there are just so many museums . For those on a budget, you can enjoy free activities, including hidden gems like beautiful parks, or just sightseeing Gothic architecture from landmark exteriors rather than paying to go inside. Those on a mid-range budget can factor in things like a Seine River cruise when they visit Paris. While those on a luxury budget have things like cabaret performances, elaborate tasting experiences, and skip-the-line museum tickets.

When it comes to cost, even a standard  three-day Paris itinerary it varies massively depending on the individual. That’s why we’re going to split things into our favorite three sections: budget, mid-range, and luxury.

Budget Activities: Free

You could easily lower your trip to Paris cost by picking free activities and admiring landmarks from the ground. If you are happy to explore on foot rather than by sightseeing cruise and sacrifice things like climbing the Eiffel Tower to admire it from Place du Trocadero, you could even budget  nothing per day.  It could be totally free.

Here are a few great activities:

• Walking Tuileries and getting free entry into the Louvre Museum on the first Sunday of the month.
• Admiring the Eiffel Tower from Place du Trocadero.
• Visiting Petit Palais and other city museums

Mid-Range Activities: $50 a Day

Whether you visit Paris on a day trip or stay for a week, chances are you have a list of some non-negotiable attractions . For instance, visiting Versailles, seeing the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo at the Louvre, scaling the Eiffel Tower, or taking a sightseeing cruise.

All of these entrance fees cost around $25-40, so it would be feasible to budget around $50 a day for sightseeing on a mid-range budget. This allows you to incorporate a few free things to do and paid attractions and activities, too.

Luxury Activities: $150 a Day

As you can probably guess, Paris has some crazily luxurious activities. You could book a champagne cruise, a Moulin Rouge show, and skip-the-line queues to the main museums. This is about going above and beyond the standard sights and investing in indulgent experiences.

Each of these more indulgent experiences costs a minimum of around $100. So, if you want one a day, we’d suggest budgeting around $150 to $200. This will allow for one extra-luxurious activity and a couple of mid-range activities.

Total Cost: What To Budget for a Weekend in Paris

You’ve sat tight and figured out which budget section works for you in each category. You know which budget you need for accommodation, food, activities, and transport. The real question now is, how does each budget type add up? What’s the overall cost of a weekend in Paris for someone on a tight budget, a mid-range budget, or a luxury budget?

We’ve got a final summary of what to budget for a weekend in Paris.

Budget: Weekend in Paris

Not including flights, we’d budget around $65-80 daily for a budget weekend in Paris. The breakdown of this trip to Paris cost is as follows:

• Hostel accommodation for $35 a day
• Public transportation for $10 a day
• Food (cooked from groceries in a shared kitchen) for $20 a day
• An optional $15 a day on activities

Mid-Range: Weekend in Paris

Not including flights, we’d budget around $320-50 daily for a mid-range weekend in Paris. The breakdown of this trip to Paris cost is as follows:

• Hotel accommodation for $220 a day
• Public transportation for $5 a day
• Food for $45 a day (breakfast included at hotel and sit-down casual lunch and dinner)
• $50 a day on activities, like river cruises and climbing the Eiffel Tower

Luxury: Weekend in Paris

Not including flights, we’d budget around $800 a day for a luxurious weekend in Paris. Here’s our breakdown of this trip to Paris cost:

• Hotel accommodation for $500 a day
• Public transport or taxi for $5-20 a day
• Food for $100 a day (breakfast included at the hotel, a casual lunch, and a fancy dinner)
• $150-200 for activities, including luxury experiences like the Moulin Rouge

Top 5 Ways To Save Money in Paris

Of course, just because these are the average costs of a trip to Paris doesn’t mean you have to accept them as the given. There’s so much you can do to reduce your trip’s cost. It just depends on how much research you want to do beforehand.

For those of you who are in a rush and need quick, efficient information, we’ve got you covered. We’ve whittled down all of our favorite money-saving tips to just five ways to save money in Paris. You’ll notice some serious reductions in costs just from these handful of important ideas. Here are some rough ideas for you.

1. Eat Outside and Dodge the Sitting Fees

Did you know that Paris restaurants often charge a surplus for sitting down inside? It is like the  coperto system in Italy . However, instead of having an entire name and category for it, you’ll just notice a sneaky cover charge or service fee added to your bill.

The best way to avoid this is to sit outside or stand at bars for alcoholic drinks and coffee. Check the menu for any mention of sitting fees or service charges, and even better, find takeaway lunches and drinks.

2. Remember City Museums Are Free

Another exciting fact about saving money in Paris is that the city museums are free. A great way to reduce your trip to Paris cost is with free attractions and activities. And while these city museums are less well known than some of the big superstars in Paris (think the Louvre), they are fascinating and come with fewer crowds, so it’s a win.

• Petit Palais
• Maison de Balzac
• Musée Carnavalet
• Museum of Modern Art
• Victor Hugo Mansion

If you want to visit famous museums like the Louvre, just visit outside of hours or on their designated “free days.”  Musee d’Orsay and the Louvre both run discounted after-hours openings. You can also visit both for free on the first Sunday of each month.

By the way, are you an EU citizen under 26 years old?  If so, you’ve got free access to tons of museums anyway. Just check them out  here .

Paris museums are fantastic value for money once you do some research. The reason most people find them so expensive is because they don’t realize how to get the good deals.

3. Create Your Own Walking Tour

Everyone knows that exploring cities on foot is cheaper. One fantastic way to reduce the cost of your trip to Paris is by creating your own walking tour. With some research beforehand, you can create a loop around the best iconic landmarks in Paris. For instance, you could walk from Notre Dame Cathedral to the Louvre Pyramid, through the Garden of Tuileries, to the terrace overlooking the Tour Eiffel.

You can pick your own route, depending on your fitness level and interests. Do some research or screenshot some information about each stop beforehand so that you can read the information as you stand in front of it. It’s a fun way to be independent and stick to a budget in Paris while still learning. It’s also a compact city, so you won’t struggle.

4. Be Tactical With Accommodation

Accommodation is one place where you can save serious money. We recommend that you get tactical with your accommodation, such as choosing a self-catered option or a walkable location.

A good tactic is to go for a hotel that includes breakfast. If you can wangle breakfast included, then you’ll be able to approach your days with more flexibility. It’s always harder to save money when the first thing on your mind is, “Where on Earth shall we get breakfast.” This way, you can grab a quick takeaway lunch while sightseeing – giving you more time to find the best deal, not the closest solution. A hungry stomach can really blind you to budget (don’t worry, it happens to the best of us).

5. Buy a Paris Pass

A  Paris Pass  is a super savvy way to save money while visiting. This digital pass is downloaded onto your mobile, and you can use it to access over 85 attractions for free across Paris, including the Louvre. There are even cheese and wine tasting experiences included. Two-day passes start at around $150 per person, so see how much you’d be spending and weigh up whether it’s a good option for you.

If you aren’t under 26 years old and an EU citizen, it’s a good choice. However, you don’t get free museum entry, and that can quickly rack up. A Paris Pass is an excellent option for those who don’t fit that category.

Do you feel even more inspired to save money in Paris? Not to worry, we’ve got an entire guide on  ways that we save money while visiting Paris . It’s kind of “our thing”, so head over there for some extra tips and tricks.

*Planning for the Paris Olympics*

The Paris Olympics are ever-looming. The Olympics are running from the 26th of July 2024 to the 11th of August 2024, with millions of tickets on sale. The whole city will be on manic action for the duration of the sporting celebrations and festivities, with many of the major landmarks closed or booked out.

If you plan to visit the Olympics, you must be savvy. There could still be time to book hotels, tickets, and attractions, but you’ll need to be quick.

Paris sells out at the best of times, so if you travel during the Paris Olympics, you’ll face fierce competition for literally everything.

Our advice? Don’t travel during the Paris Olympics if you want a normal Paris experience and aren’t interested in sports. The pay-off just isn’t worth it, and you’ll spend so much more money than you usually would. You don’t want to be forced into more expensive hotels just out of necessity, and you certainly don’t want to miss out on sightseeing.

Either book in advance and stay extra savvy. Or pick alternative dates to travel, as a trip to Paris cost will easily triple during this period.

Visiting Paris Cost: FAQs

Are you feeling more informed about your trip to Paris cost? If you’re anything like us, knowing what you can expect for your money is handy guidance.

How much does a meal cost in Paris?

A sit-down meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $20 per person in Paris. However, you can keep this under $10 if you stick to water, takeaway paninis, etc. On the flip side, a fancy three-course meal for two people will cost a minimum of around $80, so prepare a hefty budget if you like fine dining.

Is Paris more expensive than New York?

Paris is slightly cheaper than New York, which has more expensive accommodation and tipping demands.

Is Paris expensive to eat and drink?

Paris can be expensive to eat and drink if you choose tourist trap spots and sit-down meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re savvy, bagging includes breakfast at your hotel and grocery lunches, so you won’t find Paris as expensive for food and drink.

Is Paris more expensive than London?

Paris is on a par with London. It has similarly expensive accommodation, with a few options to cut prices by staying outside the main touristy areas. The same goes for food and drink. Both cities offer a balance of free and paid activities as well.

So, Is Paris Expensive?

Based on our experience, Paris can be an expensive city, especially when compared to other European cities. And why shouldn’t it be? You’re visiting one of the most beautiful and intense cultural environments in the world, so you  should  be able to quickly rack up a huge budget. Whether you book round-trip flights to Paris from the US in peak season or splurge on front-row Crazy Horse tickets or a luxury room overlooking a landmark, Paris can get expensive.

However, where people go wrong is thinking that there’s no flexibility. Just as Paris is an easy place to spend money, it’s also an easy place to save money.

Knowing what to expect from each budget category (budget, mid-range, and luxury) is half the battle. A little research goes a long way to calculating a trip to Paris cost that works for you. And with our tips and tricks to save money, you can make your dollars go a long way. We hope you have an amazing time visiting Paris – whatever your budget.

Plan Your Trip To Paris With Our Resources

• 20 Best Museums in Paris To Visit
• Ultimate One Day in Paris Itinerary – How to See Paris in a Day
• 24 Best Day Trips from Paris
• 21 Best Paris Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views
• 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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26 Amazing Things To Do In France in 2024

About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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2 thoughts on “Is Paris Expensive to Visit? Trip Costs And Budgets”

Great article! Your detailed breakdown of trip costs and budgets for visiting Paris is incredibly helpful. It’s good to know what to expect, and your tips for saving money make planning a trip to this beautiful city much more manageable. Thanks for sharing this valuable information!

I really appreciate your thoughtful analysis of travel expenses and spending limits for Paris! You’ve succeeded in making an interesting but potentially intimidating subject approachable. Excellent work!

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What Does a Trip to Paris Cost? Break Down by Budget!

February 18, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Paris, the City of Lights, is on the top of many people’s bucket lists and the first question they ask is, what does a trip to Paris cost? We are here to help you plan your trip to Paris and break down everything by budget!

Before you get started, make sure to check out our detailed article about picking the Best Time To Visit Paris!

Planning your trip to Paris last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Paris in advance to ensure availability! Here are our top picks for your trip!

Top experiences and tours in Paris:

• 1-Hour Seine River Cruise  (Super fun/affordable! We loved it!)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour  (Great way to see the city)

Tickets you MUST book in advance:

• Louvre Entry Ticket   (Do not buy tickets in person! Too busy)
• Eiffel Tower Entry Ticket   (I’ve waited 2 hours to buy in person!)
• Disneyland Paris 1-day ticket   (One of my fave Disney parks)
• Versailles Palace And Gardens Full Access  (An audience fave)

Top Hotels In Paris:

• Hôtel des Arts Montmartre  (Good location and moderate price)
• Le Katorze Hôtel  (Budget option with 4 star rating)
• Hôtel D’Aubusson  (Luxury central location with pool!)

As with any big city, it can quickly become overwhelming to try to figure out how much it costs to go to Paris. We have been to Paris multiple times and on different budgets each time.

From a very tight budget to the one time we were able to splurge and spent more, we have been to Paris six times. Each trip has taught us the ins and outs of a trip to Paris and it’s cost. Trust us when we say you absolutely can see Paris on a budget and still get to fully enjoy this romantic city. 

What can I expect to spend on my trip to Paris cost?

For the sake of this article, we are going to look at three cost ranges for a trip to Paris. Our budget trip will use $40-$75 a day, our mid-range trip will use $75 to $150, and our luxury trip is anything over $200. It’s very easy to take a trip to Paris in any of these price ranges without too much worry about how much it costs to go to Paris. 

We have factored in all our travel experience to identify six travel needs that you must consider when planning your trip: flights, transportation, lodging, activities, food, and tours. Within each of these sections, you will find our suggestions for each cost range as well as some tips and tricks so you can make the most out of your budget and plan how much it costs to go to Paris. Since we have been to Paris so many times we have many other guides to the city as well. They are linked when relevant but don’t forget to spend some time exploring all that Paris has to offer you!

How much does it cost to fly to Paris?

This guide is geared toward USA travelers. Europeans can do things cheaper as their flights are already close! It is important when considering flights that you factor in your location as well as the airports the service Paris. Do your research and use tools like Google Flights which compares carriers, airports, and even the best dates and times to fly. For the sake of this guide, we are going to use Central Florida as our home base but you can adjust these estimates for your hometown. 

The cheapest airport to fly into in Paris is Charles de Gaulle followed by Orly. Both airports have their pros and cons. Choosing which to fly into is really dictated by your needs and budget. Charles de Gaulle is larger, services more airlines but is further out from the city. This doesn’t bother us that much since public transportation is fantastic. Orly is smaller and more of a regional airport but closer to Paris. 

Flights to Paris on a budget

Before we give you a breakdown, let’s talk about airports a little more. You really want to consider how much it cost to fly out of the airports in your area. For example, we could fly from Tampa to Paris but that generally costs anywhere from $800-$1000 and most likely includes a layover. Or, we could drive two hours to Orlando and fly direct to Paris for around $500-$800. Often times it is more cost-effective to drive to the nearest airport for the cheapest flight. Make sure you do a little research to figure out the prices of flights from your surrounding airports to help you weigh which option is best for you.

Flights to Paris Mid-Range

If flying into an airport that is closer to Paris matters to you then you might want to spend your mid-range budget on guaranteeing you get flight on the carrier and airport that matter most to you. Otherwise, we think the best way to use your expanded budget for a flight to Paris is by upgrading your economy ticket.

Each carrier calls it something different but you are looking for the upgrade that is between economy and first or business class. Trust us when we say the extra legroom is well worth it! Depending on the carrier premium economy may also include power at your seat or upgraded checked luggage. Plan on spending anywhere from $120-$300 extra.

Flights to Paris Luxury

If this is your dream trip to Paris and your budget allows you can really spend as much as you want to fly into any airport, on any carrier, on any day! Use Google Flights, play with the dates and even the classes to see what you can afford. If you find that you can afford business or first class then please tell us all about it! 

How Much Does Transportation Cost in Paris?

Like so many European cities, Paris does have excellent public transportation. The Metro is incredibly easy to navigate and an excellent way to see much of the city. Uber and taxies are also easily found in the city and great when you are a little tired of walking. Speaking of walking, one of our favorite ways to spend our trip to Paris no matter the cost is to walk. The city is so charming that you will miss out on a lot of it if you don’t spend some time roaming the picturesque streets. 

Budget Transport in Paris

Don’t be afraid to take the metro! There really is no easier way to navigate this city, especially if you are on a budget than to purchase metro tickets. A set of 10 tickets, called a Carnet, is around 15 Euro. Make sure you pick a hotel that is near a metro stop and then take the metro and walk as you explore the city. If you are a little uncertain about taking the metro then check out our guide on the 7 Big Mistakes to Avoid at Paris Metro Stations . You can also rent city bikes or use scooters in Paris. No matter which way you chose to get around you will quickly find how easy it is to do so on a budget. 

Mid-Range Transport in Paris

Even if you have a mid-range budget you will still find yourself utilizing the Metro most of the time. It is just too quick and easy not to. One tip we suggest is that you use the metro during the day and then uber or take a taxi if you find yourself wanting to go back to your lodging during rush hour or late at night.

Another great thing to consider for a mid-range budget is to take the RER further out of town to Versailles or Disneyland Paris, which both cost more money. The RER tickets won’t be covered by your metro 10 pack of tickets so you will have to pay extra for those. If you are interested in exploring outside of Paris make sure you take a look at our guide to the 17 Best Day Trips from Paris You Shouldn’t Miss . 

Luxury Transport in Paris

Paris has always been a city for people at every budget and if you have extra money to spend on transportation you may want to consider hiring a private driver to take you around the city. My rich aunt always does this as it’s actually a very popular way to get around. Depending on your budget you can just hire a driver for the day or for your entire trip. We suggest looking into a private driver and guide who will not only drive you around the city but also give you your own private tour of Paris!

How Much Does Lodging Cost in Paris? 

As we said, we’ve now gone to Paris six times and had a variety of budgets for each trip. Like any big city you can find lodging at a variety of price points as long as you do your research on where to stay. If you can be flexible on the time of year in which you travel you may even be able to find nicer lodging at a budget price. Paris in the summer is incredibly busy and expensive but Paris in November, December and January is a much less popular time of year to travel and much easier to find less expensive lodging. You may also choose to get an Air BnB which is fantastic at any budget. 

For the purposes of this guide, we are going to offer two examples of lodging in each cost range. Since our focus is not on which neighborhoods to stay in each suggestion is picked based on the cost per night while taking into account some of the unique features of the neighborhood in which each lodging is located. If you are more interested in staying in specific neighborhoods then please take a look at our post, Hands Down, This is Where to Stay in Paris . 

Budget Cost of Lodging in Paris

The least expensive lodging in Paris is to stay in a hostel. While this isn’t for everyone, it is the way to go when you are on a tight budget. Some hostels even offer a few private rooms. For this reason, we suggest you check out Le Village Montmartre since it offers both shared and private rooms. It also is located in the Montmartre neighborhood while becoming more trendy is still a fairly budget-friendly area with tons of metro stops!

If you’d like a more traditional hotel then we suggest checking out the Sully Hotel in the heart of Le Marais. While this hotel is in the budget range it does offer free wifi and is located in a neighborhood that is known for its lively nightlife. It is also within walking distance to many classic and popular attractions in Paris. 

Mid-Range Cost of Lodging In Paris

If you fall into the mid-range cost for a trip to Paris then you are probably going to be seeing some of the more famous sites such as walking the seine and going to the Louver. If this is the case we suggest staying right in the heart of Paris in the 1st Arrondissement. There are so many Boutique Hotels In Paris that are in an affordable range.

We really like the Hotel Odyssey which isn’t just centrally located. It’s non-traditional, a lot of fun and right near the Louver!

We really love staying in the 7th Arrondissement for it’s location to the Eiffel tower. We suggest staying at the Grand Hôtel Lévêque near the Rue Cler Market. Rue Cler is a very old and very popular local market. It is filled with cafes and vendors and fresh produce daily. Grand Hôtel Lévêque is a low-key and modern hotel just 6 minutes walk from the closest metro station!

Luxury Cost of Lodging in Paris

If Eiffel Tower views while staying in the lap of luxury is your goal then you can’t go wrong with The Peninsula Paris. One of the top luxury hotels with a view of the Eiffel Tower you will be just steps from the Arc De Triumph, famous Parisian shopping districts and restaurants galore.  Peninsula Paris is one of the most sought-after properties in Paris. If you want to stay here, you are going to want to check rates and availability  immediately and book as soon as possible because it sells out quickly! 

If the Peninsula Paris isn’t available then have no fear.

There are many hotels with a view of the Eiffel Tower that are located near the Arc De Triumph and it is no wonder because the skyline views are just fantastic.  Hotel Raphael  is no exception and it is a gorgeous 5-star property right off the Champs-Elysee and one of the best places to stay in Paris.

It features a stunning rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower and is just a 2-minute walk away from the Arc De Triumph.

If you are planning a trip to Paris and are looking for luxury accommodation, check out our list of the Best 5-Star Hotels In Paris!

What Do Activities Cost in Paris?

Paris is truly a dream city with something for everyone in every budget. When planning activities you can also work with a flexible budget choosing to spend less in some ways in order to splurge more in other ways. If you’ve been reading this guide so far and ignoring the luxury budgets then now is the time to stop. You can spend less in all other areas, saving some of your budget to go big on a night out or pay for a private tour. We spent one lovely day in Paris walking along the Seine just enjoying the atmosphere in order to spend more on a fabulous dinner!

Budget Activities in Paris

If your budget is very tight with no wiggle room then make sure you do some planning ahead of time. You can choose your 1-2 must-do things and spread them out over the days you are in Paris. You can also plan to be in the city on a day when one of the many museums are free. For example, the Louvre which is normally $17 for a timed ticket is free Friday evenings after 6 pm and on the first Saturday of the month. The only drawback to this is that the museums will be more crowded during these times.

When you aren’t doing a paid activity Paris offers some really fantastic free experiences.  We always have so much fun just wandering the streets and exploring. To read more about these adventures check out our guides on Pretty streets in Paris , Things to Do in Montmartre , and The Best Cafes in Paris .

Mid-Range Activities in Paris

If you’d like to experience Paris by taking some tours you can find many companies that offer them online. You can take large group bus tours that will take you through the main highlights of Paris and can be a great introduction to the layout of the neighborhoods. One of our favorite tours we did while in Paris was a  hop-on-hop-off cruise on the Seine . You can purchase 1 to 2-day tickets that allow you to travel the Parisian neighborhoods above ground. Starting at about $17 a ticket these tours are a fun way to experience Paris. 

If you have a mid-range budget you probably want to consider adding Versailles to your itinerary. You will have to pay a little extra for an RER train ticket to get to Versailles. Just look for an RER Metro stop and purchase the ticket from one of the vending machines. With so much to see, you could spend the entire day exploring Versailles and you won’t even notice the 20 Euro entrance fee. 

Luxury Activities in Paris

As we said earlier, if you spend less on some of your other activities you may be able to splurge on some of the more luxury activities in Paris. From private tours, cooking classes, or even a rooftop dinner in the Eiffel Tower, the sky’s the limit if you have enough money. One of our favorite excursions that we have done in Paris was one of the many walking tours. These tend to be small group tours that can be highly personalized. We chose the French Revolution Walking Tour which took us through back streets, hidden cafes, and told the story of the French Revolution as we’ve never heard it before. Expect to pay around 60 Euros for such tours but if you can afford them they are well worth it. 

How Much Does Food Cost In Paris?

What is a trip to Paris without experiencing all the culinary delights offered from the country that invented so many of the foods we enjoy! Once again, no matter your budget, that are delights to fit every price range. This is another section where you can go very inexpensive one day in order to splurge a little bit more on another day. When we first dreamed of going to Paris we were so excited to visit the many cafes, bakeries, cheese and wine shops. We wanted to experience all that Paris had to offer and we did so at each price point.

Budget Food in Paris

Have no fear! You do not have to eat at fancy Parisian restaurants to enjoy truly incredible french food. First, if you are staying in a hostel or sharing an apartment you may choose to cook many of your meals yourself. There are so many local markets to choose from you will find it very easy to purchase fresh ingredients for your own culinary adventure.  We have chosen this option when staying in Paris many times and have written a guide to grocery shopping in Paris.  

Even if you plan on doing most of your eating at home you will find that there are times when you still have to eat out. There are great takeaway shops that offer food on the go. For a more authentic Parisian experience, we suggest stopping at a local market, pick out a fresh baguette, some cheese and a bottle of wine and have a picnic as along the Seine. 

Mid-Range Food in Paris

Besides also cooking your own food and picnicking, if you have a mid-range budget try stoping in one of the many cafes throughout the city. Parisians pretty much invented the cafe and you would be amiss if you didn’t stop in and enjoy the atmosphere at least once. People watching is the thing to do while sitting in these outdoor cafe’s. Nowadays there is so much variety in what the Paris cafe has to offer that you can find food and drinks for pretty much everyone. 

We love enjoying many of the city cafes so much that we have written a post about that too! Check out 10 of the Prettiest Cafes in Paris , pick your one that catches your eye and spend the afternoon people watching. 

Luxury Food in Paris

If it’s one thing that Paris does really well it’s the luxury dining experience. It’s no surprise that there are many Michelin star restaurants as well as incredible fine dining experiences. From dinner at the top of the Eiffel Tower to one of the many restaurants along the Champs-Elysées you won’t be disappointed. Look for fun tasting experiences too! One of our favorite meals was a 5-course menu that highlighted different truffle combinations. Many times these tasting menus don’t include drink but for extra, you can add them on. Make a night out it and book a show at the Moulin Rouge! The French fine dining experience is not something to miss. 

What do Tours Cost in Paris? 

With such a popular and big city like Paris, you should consider adding a few tours to your trip to Paris. Once again it’s very easy to find tours that fit into any budget and cost range. If you are on a budget you may choose to do some self-guided walking tours within the city. If you have a little more money to spend you might choose to take a day trip outside of the city. You can spend a little extra with tours that take you to Versailles or go all out and spend the day exploring other parts of France. Here are just a few that might interest you and help make your trip to Paris perfect!

Budget Tours

Self Guided Visit to Opera Garnier

Paris One Hour Illuminations River Cruise 

Romantic Montmartre Exploration Game

Mid-Range Tours

Paris Dinner River Cruise Experience

Lourve Museum Three Hour Comprehensive Tour with Skip the Line Access

Discover Paris by Night in a Vintage Car with a Local

Luxury Tours

Day Trip to Mont Saint Michel

Skip the Line Half-Day Versailles Guided Tour with Transfer

Day Trip to Champagnes with 8 Tastings and Lunch

As you can see, no matter your budget Paris has a lot to offer any traveler who is wondering how much a trip to Paris costs. One of the great things about going to Paris is that you can have a wonderful trip and feel like you were able to have the full Parisian experience even if you have to limit your budget. If you can splurge on something then we say go for it! Have a fancy dinner, take an extra tour or just buy your self a wonderful trinket as you wander the streets. Either way, enjoy your time in Paris!

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Planning Your Trip to Paris? Here’s What You Need to Know About the Trip to Paris Cost

by Trip.com

March 10, 2023

Introduction

Eiffel Tower / Source: Trip.com

Based on the estimated costs provided in the table above, here is a breakdown of the total estimated cost for a 7-day trip to Paris :

Flights Cost

Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile / Source: Trip.com

When it comes to the flight itself, the flying time from the US to Paris can vary depending on your departure city and airline. Here is a table displaying approximate flight times from major US cities to Paris:

Accommodation Cost

Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris / Source: Trip.com

• Budget hostels: €25-€50 per night
• Mid-range hotels: €80-€150 per night
• Luxury hotels: €200-€500 per night

Best Hotels in Paris

Sofitel paris le faubourg, hotel de crillon a rosewood hotel, hôtel san régis, le bristol paris - an oetker collection hotel, four seasons hotel george v paris, business travel, shangri-la hotel paris, nh paris opera faubourg, sofitel le scribe paris opera, maison albar hotels le diamond, ibis paris gare du nord château-landon 10ème, family friendly, novotel paris les halles, 25hours hotel terminus nord, pullman paris montparnasse, maison mère, libertel gare du nord suede, 1. hôtel plaza athénée - dorchester collection.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée - Dorchester Collection / Source: Trip.com

Hôtel Plaza Athénée - Dorchester Collection

Airport pickup service

Pets allowed

Check Availability

2. Hotel de Crillon A Rosewood Hotel

Hotel de Crillon A Rosewood Hotel / Source: Trip.com

Swimming pool

3. Hotel Lutetia, Paris

Hotel Lutetia, Paris / Source: Trip.com

Hotel Lutetia, Paris

4. hôtel du louvre, in the unbound collection by hyatt.

Hôtel du Louvre, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt / Source: Trip.com

Hôtel du Louvre, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

5. le meurice - dorchester collection.

Le Meurice - Dorchester Collection / Source: Trip.com

Le Meurice - Dorchester Collection

👉 Overall, Paris offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, you can find the perfect accommodation for your trip to Paris.

• Breakfast: €5-€10
• Lunch: €10-€20
• Dinner: €20-€40

Le Grand Vefour / Source: Trip.com

• A croissant and coffee for breakfast can cost around €5-€10.
• A two-course lunch menu at a brasserie can cost around €15-€25.
• A three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €30-€50.
• A three-course dinner at a high-end restaurant can cost €100 or more.

👉 Paris also has many street food vendors and markets where you can find affordable and delicious food. Keep in mind that alcohol can be expensive in Paris, and a glass of wine can cost around €10-€15.

Transportation Cost

Seine River tour boat / Source: Trip.com

• A single metro ticket costs €1.90, but a pack of ten tickets (carnet) costs €16.
• A one-day unlimited pass for all public transportation in Paris (zones 1-3) costs €7.50.
• A seven-day unlimited pass for all public transportation in Paris (zones 1-3) costs €28.80.
• Taxis in Paris are metered, and the cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day.

👉 If you plan to use public transportation frequently during your stay, it's recommended to purchase a pass. This can save you money in the long run and allow you to travel more freely around the city.

Some Useful Transportation Tips in Paris

Here are some transportation tips when traveling to Paris:

• Get a Paris Visite Pass : This pass allows you unlimited travel on the metro, buses, trams, and RER trains in Paris and its suburbs. You can choose a pass that suits your length of stay, from one to five days, and select the zones you need to travel in. The pass also gives you discounts on attractions, museums, and restaurants.
• Use the metro : The Paris metro is fast, efficient, and easy to use. It's the most convenient way to get around the city, and it operates from 5:30 am to 1:15 am every day. There are 16 lines, and you can transfer between them easily. Maps are available at all metro stations, and signs are in French and English.
• Consider walking or biking : Paris is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city, and you can discover hidden gems and charming neighborhoods. Biking is also an option, and there are many bike rental shops in Paris. Just be aware of the traffic and follow the rules of the road.
• Beware of pickpockets : Unfortunately, Paris is known for its pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Keep your valuables close to you, and be aware of your surroundings. Don't carry large amounts of cash or valuable items with you, and use a money belt or secure bag to store your belongings.
• Take advantage of off-peak hours : If you're traveling during peak hours, the metro can be crowded and hectic. Try to avoid rush hour (8-10 am and 5-7 pm) if possible. Also, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
• Use Uber or Taxis : If you need to take a taxi or Uber, be sure to use a licensed company. Beware of unlicensed taxis, as they can be expensive and unsafe. You can also book a taxi or Uber in advance to avoid waiting.

Activities and Sightseeing Costs

1. eiffel tower.

• Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
• Admission ticket price: Prices vary depending on the level you want to access. The basic ticket to the second floor is €16.70 for adults and €8.30 for children aged 4 to 11.
• How to go: You can take the metro line 6 or 9 to Trocadéro station, or line 8 to Ecole Militaire station.

2. Louvre Museum

• Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
• Admission ticket price: €17 for adults, free for visitors under 18 (proof of age required).
• How to go: You can take the metro line 1 to Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre station.

Louvre Museum / Source: Trip.com

3. Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica

• Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
• Admission ticket price: Free entry to the cathedral, €10 for the tower climb.
• How to go: You can take the metro line 4 to Cité station.

Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica / Source: Trip.com

4. Arc de Triomphe

• Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
• Admission ticket price: €13 for adults, free for visitors under 18 (proof of age required).
• How to go: You can take the metro line 1, 2, or 6 to Charles de Gaulle-Etoile station.

5. Palace of Versailles

• Address: Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
• Admission ticket price: €20 for adults, free for visitors under 18 (proof of age required).
• How to go: You can take the RER C train from central Paris to Versailles Château-Rive Gauche station.

Palace of Versailles / Source: Trip.com

👉✨ These popular attractions in Paris are easily accessible by public transportation and offer unforgettable experiences. Don't forget to plan your visit in advance and book tickets online to avoid waiting in line.

Other Travel Expenses in Paris

Wall of Love / Source: Trip.com

✅ Travel Insurance:

✅ sim card or roaming fees, ✅ miscellaneous expenses.

👉 By factoring in these additional travel expenses, you can better plan and budget for your trip to Paris. Remember to always keep your receipts and track your spending, so you can stay within your budget and make the most of your travel experience.

6 days 5 nights Paris Trip Cost

Pantheon / Source: Trip.com

How to Save Money during Paris Trip?

1. plan your trip in advance:, 2. use public transportation.

Ile de la Cite / Source: Trip.com

3.Eat Like a Local

4. visit free attractions, 5. book activities in advance.

Is Paris an expensive city to visit?

What is the cheapest time to visit paris, is it necessary to tip in paris, is it expensive to visit paris, what is the average daily budget for a trip to paris.

Paris Travel Cost

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Flights Cost
• 3. Accommodation Cost
• 4. Food Cost
• 5. Transportation Cost
• 6. Activities and Sightseeing Costs
• 7. Other Travel Expenses in Paris
• 8. 6 days 5 nights Paris Trip Cost
• 9. How to Save Money during Paris Trip?
• 10. Conclusion

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• Food & Drink

Average Cost of Food in Paris per Day

Like any city with a gastronomic landscape as vibrant as Paris’, food prices will be one of the key factors to consider when creating your travel budget. The average cost of food in Paris per day is tricky to determine, but typically, it depends on the arrondissement and restaurant you choose.

When I began my Paris food tours , I quickly learned that while it’s easy to splurge and spend lots of money on food, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options. Naturally, grabbing lunch near the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre will be significantly costlier than dining in a quieter city center spot!

To help you budget accordingly for your Parisian adventure, I’ve put together a breakdown of the average cost of food in Paris per day. This way, you can save money without missing out on the top foodie experiences and must-try foods in Paris !

Average Cost of Breakfast in Paris

As with many cities in Europe, breakfast in Paris is a super casual and often fast-paced affair. Most Parisians start their day with a time-honored pairing of coffee and croissants . Though I sometimes crave a heartier breakfast, I can’t fault this classic combination.

Bakeries should be your go-to if you’re on a budget , as a croissant will usually cost between €1 (~$1.10) and €2 (~$2.20). As for your morning caffeine fix, an espresso will set you back around €1 (~$1.10), while a café crème or most coffees with milk will be about €2 (~$2.20) or €2.50 (~$2.70).

A grab-and-go bakery breakfast will typically cost between €2 (~$2.20) and €4.50 (~$4.90) . If you choose to sit down rather than get your order to go, these prices can be over twice as high. Larger dishes in brunch-style spots often cost between €10 (~$10.90) and €20 (~$21.80).

In general, breakfast can cost an average of €6 (~$6.50).

Average Cost of Lunch in Paris

I’ve snagged some excellent deals in a bunch of different restaurants in Paris by stopping by in time for the lunch menu. Keep your eyes peeled for the multi-course midday meals, known as formule , which usually consists of a fixed menu available between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm .

This deal often comes in at around €25 (~$27) for three courses , and if you’ve found an especially affordable establishment, a glass of wine may be included. For something smaller, such as one course or the daily special, dubbed the plat du jour , expect to pay around €15 (~$16.40) .

These prices may be slightly higher in mid-range restaurants and will likely be two or three times as much in an upscale eatery. Conversely, a filled baguette or sandwich in a boulangerie is a much cheaper option, generally costing about €6 (~$6.60) .

The average cost of lunch in Paris per day is around €20-25 (~ $22-27) for a meal with drink. 

Average Cost of Dinner in Paris

In most cases, I’ve found dinner to be the most expensive daily meal in Paris. Whether you choose a modest restaurant or a gourmet spot, you’ll likely spend more on your evening meal than you will on breakfast or lunch.

Prices for a dish in a high-end establishment start from around €20 (~$22) . A three-course dinner in a more upmarket bistro can cost over €100 (~$109) .

If you were to visit one of the mid-range restaurants we go to on my Montmartre food tours , a meal would cost between €20 (~$22) and €25 (~$27.50).

You can find starters like soups for around €4 (~$4.50) , main plates for about €10 (~$11.00) , and desserts priced at €4 (~$4.50) . Say you wanted to add a drink to your bill; you could get one for roughly €2 (~$2.20) .

The average cost of dinner in Paris is €30-35 (~$33-39) .

Average Cost of Aperitivo and Drinks in Paris

After a busy day of sightseeing or browsing the Paris boutiques, there’s no better way to unwind for the evening than with a drink or aperitivo. In Paris, France, this pre-dinner drink is commonly called an apéritif .

As drink prices in euros go, it’s a challenge to find an alcoholic beverage in Paris that’s as wallet-friendly as wine. The ultimate bargains can be found in grocery and convenience stores, where bottles go for as little as €3 (~$3.30) ! In a laid-back bar, I’ve got a glass for around €5 (~$5.40) .

Beer isn’t overly popular in France, and pints of local brews generally go for about €7 (~$7.60) . International alternatives are often more expensive, and I’ve occasionally paid over €10 (~$10.90) for imported beers . Spirits are also pricey, and it’s tough to find cocktails for less than €12 (~$13.10) .

Non-alcoholic drinks like sodas tend to cost around €3.50 (~$3.80) . However, if you’re near the likes of the Palace of Versailles or the Place de la Bastille, prices can rise quickly.

Unlike in Italy, where small snacking plates are served as part of the aperitivo experience, an apéritif won’t necessarily come with food . In some cases, though, the bar you choose may include olives, nuts, or crackers with your drink.

On average, an alcoholic beverage in a bar or restaurant in Paris will range between €5 (~$5.40) and €12 (~$13.10).

The City of Love certainly isn’t considered one of the cheaper European cities. Yet the average cost of food in Paris per day may not be as high as you’d expect; it can actually be pretty affordable when you plan ahead.

As such, if you choose Michelin-star eateries near Notre Dame or along the Seine, expect to fork out a lot more money than if you stick to grocery stores and low-key bistros! With these average prices in mind, you can decide on a budget that suits your preferences.

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About Kenny Dunn

Kenny’s love for European cuisine was sparked after moving to Rome in 2009. He fell in love with the city’s backstreet eateries, and even more with the people and stories behind each dish. Now he's turned his passion into food tours, so  Eating Europe  guests can also share a taste of local life.

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