7-Day Authentic and Budget-Friendly Paris Experience Off the Beaten Path

Day 1: Arrival and Latin Quarter

Paris, France on May 13, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Le Petit Cler

Enjoy a traditional French breakfast with fresh croissants and coffee in this quaint local café near the Eiffel Tower, known for reasonable prices and authentic Parisian vibe.
EUR8, 1h

10:30am

Explore the Latin Quarter

Stroll through narrow medieval streets filled with bookshops and quiet cafes. Visit the lesser-known Musée de Cluny to see medieval artifacts away from crowds.
EUR12, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Bouillon Racine

Dine in a beautiful Art Nouveau setting with classic, budget-friendly French dishes popular among locals.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Jardin des Plantes and Natural History Museum

Explore these beautiful gardens and fascinating natural history exhibits often overlooked by tourists, perfect for a quiet afternoon.
EUR10, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Refuge des Fondus

Experience an authentic and fun fondue dinner in Montmartre, a lively but affordable spot frequented by locals.
EUR25, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Montmartre and Museums

Paris, France on May 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Start your day with inventive French-Australian breakfast fare in a cozy setting in Montmartre.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Visit Musée de Montmartre

Discover the hidden history of Montmartre through art and exhibits in this lesser-visited museum including its lovely garden.
EUR12, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Consulat

Enjoy classic French dishes in a picturesque and historic Montmartre café loved by locals but less crowded than main tourist spots.
EUR18, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Espace Dalí

Immerse yourself in surrealist art with a focus on Salvador Dalí’s sculptures and drawings, a small hidden gem for art lovers.
EUR13, 1h

4:00pm

Walk along Rue des Martyrs

Explore this lively market street, dotted with local bakeries, cheese shops, and affordable wine bars popular with Parisians.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Chez Plumeau

Dine at this affordable, rustic bistro known for its local clientele and traditional French cuisine in Montmartre.
EUR22, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Canal Saint-Martin and Belleville

Paris, France on May 15, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées

Taste some of Paris’ best bakery treats and artisanal bread in this famous yet local-favorite boulangerie near Canal Saint-Martin.
EUR6, 1h

10:30am

Walk along Canal Saint-Martin

Enjoy a peaceful walk by the canal lined with quirky boutiques, street art, and cafes less frequented by tourists.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Verre Volé

Experience natural wines and simple, excellent French dishes served in this laid-back bistro on the canal.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Belleville neighborhood

Discover vibrant street art, multicultural food stalls, and the peaceful Parc de Belleville with panoramic views over Paris.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Baratin

A small, affordable bistro favored by locals for its authentic atmosphere and traditional French cuisine.
EUR25, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Le Marais and Hidden Gems

Paris, France on May 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Breizh Café

Indulge in some of Paris’s best buckwheat galettes and traditional Breton crêpes, a local favorite in Le Marais.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Visit Musée Carnavalet

Explore the history of Paris through beautiful exhibits in this hidden museum in Le Marais, free entry as of recent policies.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at L'As du Fallafel

Try the legendary, fast, and affordable falafel sandwich, beloved by locals in the vibrant Jewish quarter of Le Marais.
EUR8, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll and Shopping in Le Marais

Wander through art galleries, boutique shops, and quiet squares away from tourist crowds for an authentic Parisian atmosphere.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Les Philosophes

Enjoy affordable and traditional French cuisine in a charming bistro with a loyal local following.
EUR22, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Parks and Markets

Paris, France on May 17, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Pain Pain

Sample delicious artisanal pastries and coffee in this cozy bakery near Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
EUR7, 1h

10:00am

Relax at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Enjoy one of Paris’s most beautiful and less touristy parks featuring cliffs, a waterfall, and a temple overlooking the city.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pavillon Puebla inside the park

An affordable spot perfect for casual dining amidst nature inside Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
EUR18, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Marché Secrétan

Explore this authentic local market offering fresh produce, cheese, and homemade food from 8am to 2pm on Saturdays - perfect for midsummer preparations.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Aux Lyonnais

Enjoy classic Lyonnais and French dishes in this historic yet reasonably priced restaurant favored by locals.
EUR24, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: South Pigalle and Culinary Tour

Paris, France on May 18, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Le Coquelicot

Savor fresh pastries and strong coffee in this quaint bakery in the South Pigalle area, beloved by Parisians.
EUR8, 1h

10:30am

Art and Antique Shops in South Pigalle

Discover vintage shops, art galleries, and local artisan boutiques away from the usual tourist path.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Verre

Enjoy an affordable lunch of seasonal French fare paired with natural wines in this lively but local-favorite wine bar.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Cooking class with a local chef

Learn to prepare traditional French dishes in a small group format, offering an insider’s experience into French cuisine (book in advance).
EUR50, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner: Enjoy your own cooked meal or light tapas nearby

After your cooking class, relax with a light dinner or tapas at a nearby café for a budget-friendly casual evening.
EUR15, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Leisure and Departure

Paris, France on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Petite

Enjoy a peaceful morning coffee and pastry near your accommodation, savoring the last bits of local Parisian life.
EUR7, 1h

9:30am

Leisurely stroll along the Seine

Take a calm morning walk along the Seine’s quieter banks, exploring local bookstalls and small parks with minimal crowds.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Bouillon Pigalle

Relish one last affordable traditional French meal at this well-known but local-loved eatery before heading to the airport.
EUR18, 1h

2:00pm

Head to Airport

Prepare for departure with an easy transit plan ensuring timely arrival at Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport.
EUR12, 1h
View Hotel Availability