Paris is one of the most expensive cities to be in. Whether living or visiting, it's a place that can pose a lot of challenges for backpackers and budget travelers but that doesn't mean it's impossible to stretch one's budget.
If Paris is your next destination, consider the following money-saving tips that could help maximize your trip to the city of the Eiffel.
1. Visit off-season.
For starters, airfares to Paris skyrocket when it's peak season, which are the months of June all the way to August. This is why budget travelers are strongly advised to come visit when it's off-peak, as the city still does have its charm even if it's wintertime.
2. Get an international school ID.
Parisians are somehow extra kinder to those within the age of 12-25. When budget travelers are still studying and are within this age bracket, there are a lot of privileges they can experience while touring the city.
Discounted train tickets, museum passes, bus rides, skating rink passes are all offered to students of this age so it's best to get an international school ID before heading to the city.
3. Experience free cultural events.
Apart from choosing free walking tours as opposed to bus tours, there are also a lot of free cultural events budget travelers should experience while in Paris. There are open-air film showings, plays in universities, ballets and even outdoor festivals that are all complimentary.
Apart from saving up, travelers get to meet some of the most quirky and colorful locals around. So before going out of the airport, pick up one of those free travel brochures that will show the schedules of these events.
4. Think like a local.
Buying a sandwich or coffee near the Louvre will burn a hole in the pocket, considering the café or the stall is near a world-renowned museum. This is why it helps for budget travelers to think like a local when it comes to eating, drinking and more.
Instead of dining in a restaurant, buy a bottle of wine, grab a picnic mat and sit on the grass and bask in the view. Rather than eating pricey foods, opt to go to the local market to enjoy cheap eats that are fresh, healthy and delicious.
5. Go around via metro.
The metro in Paris is the main source of transportation, which is also quite inexpensive. With less than 2 euros, travelers can get 90 minutes worth of trip already.
