To most, the words ‘Paris’ and ‘cheap’ are a contradiction in terms, so famous is the City of Light for its high prices. But, with a little inside knowledge it is possible to visit the popular capital on a budget. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your Euro…
Flights
The city is lucky enough to have not one, not two, but three airports dedicated it, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find cheap flights to Paris. Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the biggest international airport. But, at only 8 miles away from the city, Paris-Orly (ORY) is more convenient. Easyjet (U2) flies to both Charles de Gaulle and Orly. Beauvais-Tillé Airport is the furthest from Paris, and is reached via a long bus journey. So why go to Beavais? You can get cheap Ryanair flights there, that’s why.
Accommodation
Finding somewhere to stay isn’t hard in Paris, finding somewhere good value is another matter. Of course, if you’re heading to Paris, you want to be staying in a nice area. So instead of looking at hotels in the most central and expensive arrondisements – like Louvre and Marais, try more up-and-coming areas, such as Bastille.
Eating Out
Before you go into a restaurant, make sure you check the price of a coffee, a beer, and a soft drink. Seeing what people charge for these things is a good way to gauge whether or not the restaurant is good value for money because they can shoot up depending on your location. Having said that, of course be sensible and don’t eat on the Champs Elysées. Opt for somewhere a little more cheap and cheerful, such as the eateries in Quartier de Ecrivains.
Transport
Taxis in Paris are expensive and the metro can seem so if you don’t know what ticket to buy. Make sure you get a visitor pass as opposed to single or return tickets and you’ll be able to get anywhere you need to go cheaply.
Museums
Paris is famous for boasting a wealth of museums, but usually they don’t come cheap. Well, that’s unless you’re in the know. Because on the first Sunday of the month a wealth of the city’s best museums are free. This includes the Pompidou Centre, the Louvre, the Musée D’Orsay, the Picasso museum and many many more.
Still want to visit the Eiffel Tower? Well, at €13.40 to the top, I guess you could allow yourself this little extravagance.
