I can still remember the first time I set foot in Paris. It was raining (of course), my shoes were already soaked, and I’d managed to order sparkling water instead of still at a café without realizing it. But even with soggy socks and my questionable French, I found myself falling for this city—hard. If you’re heading to Paris (or honestly, just daydreaming about it), here’s my totally unfiltered, slightly rambling list of best things to do in Paris—including some free stuff (because hey, croissants aren’t cheap!).
1. Picnic Under the Eiffel Tower (Cliché, But Worth It)
Listen, I know everyone says this, but seriously: the Eiffel Tower is just as magical as you imagine. The best thing I did? Skipped the climb and had a picnic with a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of Orangina on the grass at Champ de Mars. There were kids playing soccer nearby, and a couple taking engagement photos. The whole thing felt like a scene from a movie—except, you know, my sandwich kept falling apart and I got cheese all over my jeans.
If you’re there at night, stick around for the sparkling lights show. It’s cheesy and perfect. Don’t bother trying to get the “perfect” photo—just enjoy it.
2. Get Lost in Montmartre’s Winding Streets
I’m not kidding when I say “get lost” here. Montmartre is all hills and cobblestones and twisty roads, and I’m pretty sure my phone’s map gave up at one point. But honestly, wandering is half the fun. You’ll stumble on tiny art studios, pastel houses, and (if you’re lucky) a cat or two sunbathing on a windowsill.
Definitely hike up to Sacré-Cœur for the view, but also pop into a little café for a coffee. I had the best hot chocolate of my life in Montmartre, sitting next to a window watching rain drizzle down. Also—don’t miss the “I Love You Wall.” It took me three tries to find it, but it’s adorable.
3. Free Things To Do In Paris: Stroll Along the Seine
Some of my favorite moments in Paris didn’t cost a cent. Walking by the Seine in the early evening, I watched locals sipping wine, couples dancing under bridges, and a guy playing accordion. It felt like a movie cliché, but it actually happens! The bouquinistes (those green bookstalls) are perfect for browsing—one of them sold me an old Tintin comic, which is now on my bookshelf at home.
If you want a classic “what to do in Paris” answer: just walk. Seriously. Let your feet lead the way.
4. The Louvre: Go, But Don’t Stress
I’ll confess: I lasted 90 minutes at the Louvre before my feet gave up. There’s so much to see, it’s kind of overwhelming. My advice? Pick one section—like the Egyptian rooms or the sculptures—and give yourself permission to skip the rest. I saw the Mona Lisa from about fifteen feet back (she’s smaller than you’d think), then spent ages staring at the ceilings, because they’re gorgeous.
On certain nights, the Louvre is free, which is perfect if you’re on a budget. But honestly, don’t feel bad if you’d rather sit in a café and eat cake.
5. Eat All The Pastries (Seriously, All of Them)
I’m convinced the phrase “best things to do in Paris” should just mean “eat pastries.” Every morning, I grabbed a croissant or pain au chocolat from a different bakery. My favorite was a spot called Du Pain et des Idées—order the pistachio pastry if you can, thank me later. Don’t stress about calories—you’ll walk them off, I promise.
And macarons! Pierre Hermé is famous for a reason, but honestly, even the random bakery on the corner will have something delicious.
6. Explore the Marais Without a Plan
The Marais is where I discovered the joy of Parisian window shopping. I wandered into vintage stores, bought myself a scarf I probably didn’t need, and ate falafel on a park bench. Place des Vosges is great for a picnic or just people-watching—try to spot the locals from the tourists (hint: locals rarely look at their phones).
7. Find Your Favorite Garden
Luxembourg Gardens is my favorite spot for a lazy afternoon. I plopped down in one of those green chairs, watched little kids push sailboats around the pond, and eavesdropped on a couple arguing about philosophy (or maybe just dinner plans). Parks are one of the best free things to do in Paris, and they make you feel like a local, even if you’re wearing a camera around your neck.
8. Late Nights in the Latin Quarter
If you’re a night owl, the Latin Quarter is the place to be. I wandered into a tiny jazz bar completely by accident, and ended up staying for hours. There’s always music, cheap eats, and a slightly chaotic energy that feels different from the rest of the city. Grab a crêpe and just wander.
Last Thoughts: Paris Is For Wandering
Look, there are tons of lists about must do Paris activities, but my best memories were always the ones I didn’t plan—the unexpected rainstorm, the surprise flea market, the street musician who played “La Vie en Rose” just as I passed by. So yes, see the sights, eat the food, but also leave time to just… be in Paris.
And if you’ve got tips of your own, or want to share your favorite pastry spot, let me know! I love swapping stories with fellow travelers.
Pin this for your trip—and bon voyage!
