“Traveling is expensive,” they said. But what if I told you I spent a week in Paris—yes, Paris—on just $20 a day? Sounds impossible, right? Let me show you how I made it happen and how you can, too.
Why Paris?
For me, Paris has always been a dream destination. The Eiffel Tower, charming cobblestone streets, and buttery croissants beckoned me for years. But like many, I assumed the cost would be prohibitive. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. With a little creativity and planning, I made my dream trip a reality on a shoestring budget.
Step 1: Affordable Accommodation
When people think of Paris, they imagine luxury hotels or chic Airbnbs with views of the Seine. I opted for a hostel in Montmartre—a lively, artsy district. My bunk bed in a shared dorm cost just $12 per night and came with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Sharing space wasn’t glamorous, but it was clean, safe, and came with unexpected perks.
I met fellow travelers who shared insider tips, like where to find the best free walking tours. One of them, Lisa from Germany, even joined me on several outings, saving both of us money by splitting costs.
“You don’t need luxury to enjoy Paris. You just need an open mind.” — Lisa, fellow budget traveler.
Step 2: Eating Like a Local
Forget pricey restaurants. I embraced Parisian street food and local markets. A flaky pain au chocolat from a neighborhood boulangerie cost just €1.50, and I often picnicked in parks with items from Monoprix, a popular supermarket chain.
One night, I stumbled upon Rue Cler, a quaint street packed with affordable eateries. I enjoyed a fresh baguette, creamy cheese, and a €3 bottle of wine while sitting under the sparkling Eiffel Tower. It felt magical—and all for under $10.
Step 3: Getting Around for Free (or Almost Free)
Paris is a city made for walking. Instead of spending on Ubers or taxis, I wandered its beautiful neighborhoods on foot. From the historic Latin Quarter to the vibrant Marais, every turn revealed something new.
For longer distances, I bought a pack of 10 metro tickets for €14, which lasted my entire trip. Pro tip: Paris’ metro stations themselves are an attraction. The art-deco entrances and musicians busking underground add to the city’s charm.
Step 4: Free (or Cheap) Activities
Did you know many of Paris’ most iconic attractions are free? The Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and strolls along the Seine didn’t cost me a cent. Even museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month—a perk I timed perfectly for my visit.
One of my favorite memories was joining a free walking tour of Montmartre. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the neighborhood’s bohemian history and even pointed out where Picasso once lived. At the end of the tour, I tipped him €5—well worth it for the insights.
Fun Fact: Paris has over 400 public parks and gardens, perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
Unexpected Challenges
Budget travel isn’t without its hiccups. One rainy afternoon, I got caught in a downpour without an umbrella. Instead of buying an overpriced one from a souvenir shop, I ducked into Shakespeare and Company, a famous English bookstore. I spent hours browsing their shelves, drying off, and soaking in literary history—all for free.
Another surprise? Language barriers. While most Parisians spoke some English, I found learning a few basic phrases in French helped immensely. A simple “Bonjour” or “Merci” often earned me a smile and better service.
How You Can Do It Too
- Plan Ahead: Book hostels or budget accommodations early to secure the best rates.
- Embrace Street Food: Markets and bakeries are your wallet’s best friend.
- Take Advantage of Freebies: Research free entry days for museums and explore public parks.
- Walk Everywhere: It’s the best way to truly experience Paris’ charm.
- Be Flexible: Things won’t always go as planned, but that’s part of the adventure.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Paris on $20 a day taught me that luxury is overrated. The true essence of travel lies in experiences, not expenses. I left with unforgettable memories, new friends, and a renewed love for adventure.
So, what’s stopping you? With a little creativity, your dream trip could be closer—and cheaper—than you think.