Top 5: Free Things To Do in Paris

The City of Lights is on many a bucket list, but it may be listed toward the bottom due to the high prices of lodging, food and other attractions that can swallow a traveler´s euros. Although Paris is one of the world´s most expensive cities, there are plenty of attractions to see that don´t cost a single cent.

Create Your Own Walking Tour

Some of Paris´s best sights can be (and should be) seen from the outside. Take a stroll around Notre Dame Cathedral for some stunning examples of Gothic architecture. Hike your way up to Montmartre for views of the city and photo ops of the Basalique du Sacré Coeur. Shimmy through the Arc de Triomphe to round out your tour of the city´s best monuments.

Learn to Cook

Learn how to make cordon bleu and then wash it down with a glass of French wine. The Fédération de Cuisine offers free cooking classes, and La Derniere Goutte hosts wine-and-cheese tastings all day on Saturdays. Bon appetit!

Watch a Movie Under the Stars

During warm weather seasons, visit Parc de la Villette with a picnic basket to enjoy American and foreign films al fresco.

Garden Hop

The luxurious gardens of Paris can provide hours of people watching and gelato tasting. Pass through and ponder in the Jardin de Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin des Plantes.

Rest Riverside

Grab a baguette and a bottle of wine and head down to the quai, the sort-of boardwalk along the Seine River. Enjoy a snack and watch the boats pass by while the sights of the city serve as your backdrop.