Saving Money in Paris: Cheap Paris for the Budget Traveler

There are elements of Paris that are notoriously expensive, whether it's fashion, food, accommodation or the cost of fuel. Yet, Paris also has a reputation for great deals - the high population of artists and students mean that saving money in Paris has become an established lifestyle. Here are some tips for saving money in Paris from those in the know.

Cheap Paris: Food

One of the best methods for saving money in Paris is watching your food budget. The good news is that cheap Paris means great food as well as saving money. For, Paris is cram-packed with bakeries, pastry shops and wine sellers that make saving money in Paris easy. The classic cheap Paris meal is a baguette, selection of cheeses and a bottle of sparkling water or wine. This approach to saving money in Paris is not only frugal but delicious!

The countless cafes in Paris are another option for saving money in Paris. Choose a cafe with affordable small dishes such as pastries or baguettes over a restaurant to save money.

Cheap Paris: Accommodation

Your choice of accommodation is another key to cheap Paris. There are numerous options for budget accommodation in Paris. Choosing a student let or hostel is one option for saving money in Paris. Make sure that the accommodation is reputable and safe by doing thorough research first. Some of the cheapest accommodation options in Paris are hostels. Aimed at students and backpackers, these hostels often include bunk beds and basic level accommodation.

Another tip for saving money in Paris is to choose a hotel, bed and breakfast or hostel that includes breakfast as part of the accommodation fee. That way, you can have hearty breakfast or brunch before heading out for sightseeing. This approach can save you money at lunchtime, when you might opt for a light snack or drink instead of a more expensive meal.

Cheap Paris: Entertainment

Your choice of entertainment is a way of saving money in Paris. Opt for low-cost or free entertainment such as art museums and public entertainment such as dance performances or music concerts. Paris is a beautiful city and enjoying the architecture and sights does not cost a penny. A walking tour of the city and parks is an excellent way of saving money in Paris. Get a good guide book and don't go in any areas which you are unsure about.

Cheap Paris: Shopping

A top tip for saving money in Paris is to do your shopping at the street fairs which happen along the Seine. There, you can find books, antiques and many other items at bargain prices. This tip for saving money in Paris is also one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a day.