A Week in Paris on a Shoestring Budget

Thursday, February 8:

Start your trip by visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower in the morning. Take a leisurely stroll in the Champ de Mars park and enjoy a picnic with a view of the tower. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Latin Quarter, known for its bohemian atmosphere and lively streets. As the evening sets in, head to Montmartre and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a breathtaking sunset view of the city.

• Eiffel Tower: €10 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
• Champ de Mars: Free, 1-2 hours
• Latin Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
• Montmartre/Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Free, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Café de Flore is a popular breakfast spot in the Latin Quarter, known for its historic ambiance and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
• La Crêperie Bretonne is a charming restaurant in Montmartre, serving traditional Breton crepes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
• Le Relais de l'Entrecôte is a local favorite for dinner in Paris, offering a set menu of steak frites and a secret sauce. Average cost for a meal is about €25 per person.

Friday, February 9:

Start your day with a visit to the Louvre Museum in the morning. Explore the world-renowned art collection, including the famous Mona Lisa. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Seine River and enjoy the picturesque views. As the evening approaches, head to the trendy Le Marais district and explore its charming streets filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés.

• Louvre Museum: €15 (estimated cost), 3-4 hours
• Seine River Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
• Le Marais: Free, 2-3 hours

Saturday, February 10:

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Notre-Dame Cathedral in the morning. Take a stroll on Île de la Cité and admire the stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the bohemian neighborhood of Belleville, known for its street art and eclectic vibe. As the evening arrives, enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along the Seine River.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
• Île de la Cité: Free, 1-2 hours
• Belleville: Free, 2-3 hours
• Seine River Cruise: €15 (estimated cost), 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café de Flore, a historic café located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Indulge in their mouthwatering croissants and rich coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to Les Pipos, a quaint brasserie in the Latin Quarter. Enjoy traditional French dishes like duck confit or coq au vin. Average cost for a meal is about €20 per person.
• Celebrate the evening at Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy bistro with a vibrant atmosphere. Delight in their exceptional French cuisine, with must-try dishes like steak tartare and roasted lamb. Average cost for a meal is about €35 per person.

Sunday, February 11:

Start your day by visiting the charming neighborhood of Montparnasse in the morning. Explore the Montparnasse Cemetery, where many famous artists and writers are buried. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll in the Luxembourg Gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere. As the evening sets in, head to the vibrant Bastille district and discover its lively nightlife.

• Montparnasse Cemetery: Free, 1-2 hours
• Luxembourg Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours
• Bastille: Free, 2-3 hours

Monday, February 12:

Start your day by visiting the charming neighborhood of Montmartre in the morning. Explore the quaint streets and visit the artists' square, Place du Tertre. In the afternoon, discover the hidden gem of Canal Saint-Martin, known for its picturesque bridges and trendy cafés. As the evening arrives, enjoy a cozy dinner in one of the local restaurants.

• Montmartre/Place du Tertre: Free, 2-3 hours
• Canal Saint-Martin: Free, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, February 13:

Start your day by visiting the Palace of Versailles in the morning. Explore the opulent halls and the magnificent gardens. In the afternoon, head back to Paris and visit the Musée d'Orsay, known for its impressive collection of Impressionist art. As the evening sets in, take a romantic evening stroll along the Seine River.

• Palace of Versailles: €18 (estimated cost), 4-5 hours
• Musée d'Orsay: €14 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
• Seine River Walk: Free, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, February 14:

Start your day by visiting the picturesque district of Montmartre in the morning. Explore the charming streets and visit the famous Moulin Rouge. In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping at the flea markets of Saint-Ouen. As the evening arrives, celebrate your last night in Paris with a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine River.

• Montmartre/Moulin Rouge: €15 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
• Saint-Ouen Flea Markets: Free (shopping costs vary), 2-3 hours
• Seine River Dinner Cruise: €50 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, visit the charming village-like neighborhood of Butte-aux-Cailles. Explore its narrow streets, colorful murals, and enjoy a drink at one of the local cafés. Another local favorite is the Promenade Plantée, an elevated park built on an old railway viaduct. Take a leisurely walk surrounded by greenery and enjoy panoramic views of the city.