Paris, the most visited city in the world, is a dream destination for millions worldwide. In 2023 alone, the French capital welcomed 47.5 million domestic and international tourists, and boasts a tourism sector valued at an impressive $35.6 billion. But with this global appeal comes a hefty price tag: a week-long trip for one traveler can cost as much as $4,375, according to our Frenchly guide.
While the allure of Paris lies in its iconic landmarks, gourmet food, and rich cultural experiences, many tourists unknowingly overpay for some of the city’s most common offerings. From airport transfers to riverside souvenirs, certain expenses add up fast—often without enhancing the trip itself.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to enjoy Paris without breaking the bank. By choosing smarter alternatives, you can savor the city’s charm while keeping costs in check. Here’s a guide to some of the most common tourist traps—and how to navigate them with savvy savings.
Paris Tourist Traps to Avoid
Touristy Cafés and Overhyped Restaurants
Iconic spots like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots are steeped in history, but their prices reflect their fame. While they can be worth a visit for the ambiance, you don’t need to break the bank to experience them. Opt to take your coffee standing at the bar, where prices are significantly lower than table service, and soak in the atmosphere without the upcharge.
For dining, skip the overpriced tourist menus and explore local bistros, which provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy authentic French cuisine without the crowds—or the price tag. Go for the prix fixe menu, which will offer more bang for your buck than an à la carte meal—even better, consider a lunch prix fixe menu, especially when visiting nicer restaurants. These deals are cheaper and typically far easier to get a reservation for.
Taxi Rides to and From the Airport
Getting to or from Paris airports like Charles de Gaulle or Orly in a taxi can set you back for a flat fee of €56—sometimes even higher during peak hours using applications like Uber and Lyft. While convenient, these options aren’t the most budget-friendly or efficient, especially when traffic comes into play.
Instead, opt for the RER train, which costs just €10–€12, and often brings you to the city center faster during rush hour. Trains run frequently, and their stops connect seamlessly to the Paris Métro, making transfers easy. You don’t even have to carry up your suitcases onto the train, as the doors open directly onto the platform, and you’re sure to see plenty of locals utilizing this option. Another cost-effective option is the RoissyBus, a direct shuttle which connects CDG to Paris-Opéra in just 60 minutes for €13, and is compatible with the Navigo metro pass.
Souvenir Shops on Popular Streets
Souvenir stands on busy streets like Rue de Rivoli and Montmartre are filled with overpriced trinkets and generic keepsakes, often mass-produced and far from authentic. While convenient, these shops typically charge a premium for items that lack true Parisian character.
Explore independent shops and local markets like Messy Nessy’s Cabinet in the 5th arrondissement or Merci Paris in the 3rd for more meaningful mementos. These hidden gems offer one-of-a-kind finds, from vintage treasures to beautifully crafted French artisanal goods. Not only will you discover unique keepsakes, but you’ll also support small businesses and take home a piece of Paris that’s truly special.
Sales Tax
As a non-resident and non-citizen of France, you’re eligible for a VAT refund, sparing you from paying sales tax. To claim it, ensure your purchases meet the minimum €100 threshold spent in a single store on the same day, and request a tax-free form (formulaire détaxe) at the store. Fill out the form and present your passport as proof of eligibility. If you forgot your passport, some retailers allow you to return with it later. The refund typically amounts to about 12% of the purchase price (i.e. not the entirety of the 20% standard VAT). Before leaving the EU, validate the form at a self-service PABLO kiosk (located in both CDG and ORY airports), or at a customs desk in your final European destination. Once validated, submit it via the designated drop box or through an app if available. Refunds can be issued to your credit card or in cash. This process requires minimal effort but can lead to significant savings on your purchases, especially if you are doing some serious shopping in Paris.
Full Priced Shopping
Paris is a mecca for luxury fashion, and one of the most affordable places to purchase high-end brands. For the best deals, plan your visit around the bi-annual sales (soldes). Winter sales (les soldes d’hiver) typically start on the second Wednesday of January, while summer sales (les soldes d’été) usually kick off in late June or early July. During these periods, you’ll find incredible discounts, and yes, you can still claim VAT refunds on top of those. For more luxury brand savings, visit outlets like La Vallée Village, where designer items are available at lower prices year-round, often with additional sales.
Wine
You don’t need to splurge to enjoy wine in Paris. Good bottles in the €5–€10 range are widely available at supermarkets and wine shops throughout the city. At restaurants, opt for the house wine—the quality is typically much higher than what you might find in the U.S., and much more budget-friendly than the other wine list options. Wine is also far cheaper than mixed drinks or cocktails—and sometimes even cheaper than soda! So don’t be afraid to order that extra verre.
Famous Parisian Pastries and Macarons
Paris is known for its iconic patisseries like Ladurée and Angelina, but their sit-down service can come with a hefty price tag. To save, grab your pastries to go and enjoy them at one of Paris’s many parks, or along the Seine. And if those spots are out of your way, simply visit your neighborhood patisserie or boulangerie, where you’ll find pastries, viennoiseries, and anything else you might be looking for, for a more authentic (and budget-friendly) start to your day.
Bottled Water
When dining out at Paris restaurants, Americans might be surprised to discover that asking for water will typically get you expensive bottled water. To save money, simply ask for a carafe d’eau (tap water). Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but it also reduces waste.
Rooftop Bars
Skip the expensive cocktails at rooftop bars and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city for free. Visit iconic spots like the Sacré-Cœur, the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette, or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont for stunning vistas that won’t cost you a thing. These scenic locations offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Paris without the premium price tag.
Seine Cruises
Prepaid Seine River cruises can also often come with inflated prices, often to cover the inclusion of a mediocre dinner and drinks. Instead, go for a more affordable option like the Vedettes du Pont Neuf (starting at €13 per person), which offers similar stunning views at a fraction of the cost. If you’re looking for an even more budget-friendly option, consider a leisurely sunset walk along the Seine—it’s just as magical and completely free.
Day Tours to Versailles
Group tours to popular day trip destinations like Versailles are often exorbitantly priced. Instead, consider taking the RER line C to the city, which is far cheaper, and offers greater flexibility. Once there, take advantage of the free audio guides provided by the palace, which allow you to explore the site at your own pace without the need for a pricey guided tour. This option not only saves money but also gives you the freedom to immerse yourself fully in the experience.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
While hop-on hop-off buses are a convenient way to see the city, they can cost €30 or more per ticket. Instead, opt for public buses like Route 69, which offers equally scenic views at a fraction of the price. This route will take you on a scenic journey from the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower, to the Gambetta-Japon stop near Père Lachaise Cemetery, passing landmarks such as Les Invalides, the Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, Hôtel de Ville, and Le Marais. If you’d prefer to get your steps in, take advantage of free walking tours like Free Tours by Foot. These tours not only allow you to explore Paris at a leisurely pace, but they also provide the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides, giving you a fun, budget-friendly way to discover the city.
Private Photography Services
Everyone wants an iconic photo at the Eiffel Tower, but hiring a professional photographer can quickly eat into your budget. Instead, bring a tripod for DIY shots (just beware of pickpockets!), enlist a friend to snap photos, or book a reasonably priced photography session through Airbnb Experiences starting at just around €30 per person. Who knows, you might even be helping a beginner photographer gain experience while capturing your moments in the French capital.
Famous Paris Museums
Paris’s legendary museums, like the Louvre (Entry: €22) and Musée d’Orsay (Entry: €14-16) are bucket-list staples, but admission costs can add up. To save, plan your visit on the first Sunday of the month, when many museums (including those two) offer free entry. Students and travelers under 26 can get free entry to most Paris museums by showing a student ID and/or proof of age, making it easier to take in the city’s artistic treasures. The following also have free entry year-round to their permanent collections: Petit Palais, Musée Carnavalet, Maison de Victor Hugo, Musée de la Vie Romantique (currently under renovation), Maison de Balzac and Musée Cernuschi.
