It’s summer again, and if you are planning to visit the City of Love, I have some tips for you. There are many ways you can explore, but do you actually know how to do it for free? Stop worrying about expensive tickets and long lines. Today, I’m sharing three places to visit in Paris for free that will make your trip unforgettable. This article was actually inspired by an ice cream vendor who casually told us how to get the best out of the Louvre without spending a single penny.
At a Glance: The Free Paris Experience
- Location: Central Paris (1st, 4th, and 16th Arrondissements).
- Must-See Spots: Trocadéro, The Louvre Pyramids, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- The Highlight: Getting the absolute best view of the Eiffel Tower for free.
- Best For: First-time visitors, budget travelers, and architecture lovers.
- Budget: €0 (Just save a few euros for that famous jambon-beurre!).
- Travel Time: You can easily visit all three in a single, beautiful afternoon.
I) Fuel up with the best sandwich in the world
Yes, one of the best sandwiches in the world is Parisian (according to the Time Out 2025 ranking) and it’s only 6 euros. You can find it at the brasserie Le Petit Vendôme. It’s a simple jambon-beurre, but a very good jambon-beurre. Trust me, it’s needed with all the walking you will be doing next!
II) The places you can visit in Paris for free
1. Trocadéro: The Ultimate Eiffel Tower View
If you are wondering what to do in Paris without opening your wallet, this is step one. You don’t need to pay to go up the Eiffel Tower to appreciate it. Trocadéro offers the absolute best, unobstructed view of the Iron Lady. It is the perfect place to grab those iconic photos, and the beautiful, sloping gardens underneath are candy for the eyes. Enjoy the show.
2. The Louvre Pyramids: A Modern Masterpiece
Are you even a tourist if you don’t take a picture next to those famous glass pyramids?
Here is the secret the ice cream vendor shared: while entering the museum collections costs money, walking around the Cour Carrée and admiring the stunning contrast between the historic palace and I.M. Pei’s modern glass pyramids is 100% free. It’s one of the most stunning places to visit in Paris, especially as the sun starts to set and the glass lights up.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral: A Historic Heart
I am Catholic, so this one was especially meaningful to me, but even if you are not, this is an absolute must-see!
The cathedral has officially reopened its doors, and walking inside to admire the beautifully restored stained-glass windows is completely free. I am not very savvy about architecture, so the only thing I can say is that it’s beautiful. If you enjoy European architecture, you will love it. It is the true heart of Paris, and being able to experience its history up close again is a breathtaking reminder of the city’s resilience.
Now I know what you are thinking: these places are probably tourist traps. But if you go earlier, you won’t have to stay in line too long. These are classic places people visit in Paris, so everyone wants to see them. Yet my friend and I were able to do all three in one afternoon so it’s totally doable! Remember to keep your water bottle with you!
If you want to escape the capital entirely, check out my guide to other beautiful hidden gems outside of Paris!
Let me know in the comments if you have been to one of these places. Besides, do you know why it’s called the city of Love? I have my own idea but that’s a story for another day.
XO
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