Budget-Friendly Paris: 5-Day Itinerary on a Shoestring

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Paris, France

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Start your Parisian adventure with a classic French breakfast of croissants and café au lait at this famous café.
Located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you can explore the surrounding neighborhood afterward.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll through Luxembourg Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, perfect for people-watching and taking pictures.
Easily accessible on foot from Café de Flore, it's a short 15-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Boulevard Saint-Germain

Grab a quick, affordable lunch of a baguette sandwich from a local boulangerie while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Plenty of options available on Boulevard Saint-Germain.
EUR7, 1 hour

1:15PM

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this iconic cathedral, a must-see on your Paris itinerary.
Take Metro Line 4 from Saint-Germain-des-Prés to Cité.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Île de la Cité

Wander around Île de la Cité, taking in sights like Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie.
Stay on Île de la Cité; mostly pedestrian-friendly.
EUR10 (for Sainte-Chapelle), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Le Petit Cler

Enjoy a budget-friendly meal at this local bistro, known for its hearty dishes.
Take Metro Line 4 from Cité to Strasbourg-Saint-Denis then walk about 10 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and Culture Day

Paris, France

8:30AM

Breakfast at Angelina

Indulge in a breakfast of hot chocolate and French pastries at this historic café.
Located near the Louvre; you can walk to your next destination.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:45AM

Visit the Louvre Museum

Explore the world-renowned Louvre Museum and its vast collection of art.
Take Metro Line 1 from Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre to Châtelet.
EUR17, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte

Savor a classic steak-frites meal at this great-value restaurant.
Walking distance from the Louvre, about 15 minutes.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Montmartre

Wander through the charming streets of Montmartre, visiting the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Take Metro Line 12 to Abbesses.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur

Climb the stairs to the domes for stunning panoramic views of Paris.
Located in Montmartre; simply walk upward to the top.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at La Bonne Franquette

Enjoy traditional French cuisine at this cozy restaurant that won't break the bank.
It's within walking distance from the Basilica.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Riverside and Markets Day

Paris, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées

Grab a fresh pastry at this bakery known for its delicious pain au chocolat.
Located in the 10th arrondissement; easy to access.
EUR5, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Walk along the Canal Saint-Martin

Enjoy a morning stroll along the picturesque canal and its charming boutiques.
It's a walkable area from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Marché des Enfants Rouges

Explore the oldest covered market in Paris and sample local foods and specialties.
Head west for about 10 minutes.
Free (tasting additional EUR5), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at a Market Stall

Grab a fresh meal from one of the market stalls; consider a savory crepe!
Enjoy within the market grounds.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Musée Picasso

Delve into the works of Picasso at this dedicated museum.
A short walk from the market, about 15 minutes.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Discover this beautiful park with lakes, cliffs, and a temple for a peaceful break.
Take Metro Line 11 from République to Belleville.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Chez Janou

Indulge in Mediterranean dishes at this charming restaurant featuring a lovely courtyard.
Take Metro back to République then walk.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Sites Day

Paris, France

8:30AM

Breakfast at La Parisienne

Enjoy a French baguette and coffee to kick off your day in a quintessential Parisian cafe.
Located near the Eiffel Tower.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Eiffel Tower

Experience one of the world’s most famous landmarks and consider taking the lift to the second level.
Within walking distance or use Metro Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim.
EUR26, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Walk along the Seine

Stroll along the beautiful banks of the Seine River, soaking in the views.
Just head west from the Eiffel Tower.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bistro des Champs

Savor a quick and affordable lunch before heading to your next destination.
Approximately a 15-minute walk from the Seine.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Arc de Triomphe

Explore the iconic Arc de Triomphe and enjoy views of the Champs-Élysées.
Take Metro Line 1 from George V to Charles de Gaulle-Étoile.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Champs-Élysées

Wander down the famous avenue, browsing shops and enjoying the atmosphere.
Simply walk south from the Arc.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Café de la Paix

Treat yourself to a delightful meal in this renowned café, perfect for people-watching.
Located near Opéra Garnier.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Last Day in the City

Paris, France

9:00AM

Breakfast at Le Marais Café

Enjoy a casual breakfast while reviewing your Paris adventure.
Located in Le Marais, close to your next stop.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Musée Carnavalet

Discover the history of Paris at this museum dedicated to the city’s past.
A short walk from your breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Le Marais neighborhood

Wander through the streets of Le Marais, known for its trendy shops and boutiques.
Easily walkable throughout the neighborhood.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Les philosophes

Culinary delights await you at this popular restaurant with a cozy vibe.
Located a short walk away in Le Marais.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Montparnasse Tower

End your trip with a visit to Montparnasse Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Take Metro Line 4 from Strasbourg-Saint-Denis to Montparnasse.
EUR18, 2 hours

4:30PM

Afternoon Tea at Café de Flore

Relax with an afternoon tea as you reflect on your memories in Paris.
Take Metro back to Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
EUR12, 1 hour

6:00PM

Departure Preparation

Head back to your accommodation for check-out and to gather your belongings.
Plan your route based on your departure point.
Free, 1 hour
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