Paris, the city of love, is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, museums, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this enchanting city. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, Paris is full of must-see attractions. However, there’s more to this city than just its famous monuments. In this article, we’ll explore 11 things to do in Paris that will take you off the beaten path and introduce you to the lesser-known gems of the city, and most importantly, without having to break the bank.. From indulging in mouth-watering French cuisine to exploring quaint neighborhoods, our guide will help you make the most of your trip to the city of lights. So, grab your passport, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with the magic of Paris.

And as you start planning, read this blog for information about top airlines you can fly to reach the City of Light! Top Airlines Flying to Europe 2023

11. View the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower - ASAP Tickets Blog

If you are planning a trip to Paris, a visit to the Eiffel Tower will be one of the best things to do in Paris with kids. The Eiffel Tower is an iconic landmark of Paris and one of the most visited monuments in the world. Here is a travel guide to help you plan your trip to the Eiffel Tower.

Tickets

The first step to planning your Eiffel Tower trip is to purchase tickets. You can buy tickets online, which will save you time and money. There are several ticket options available, including lift access to the top or climbing the stairs to the second floor.

Timing

The Eiffel Tower is open every day of the year, but the opening hours vary depending on the season. The tower is busiest during the summer months, so it’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Getting there

The Eiffel Tower is located in the heart of Paris, and there are several ways to get there. You can take the metro, bus, or taxi to the tower. If you want a more unique experience, you can also take a boat tour of the Seine River, which will provide you with stunning views of the tower.

If you’re visiting Paris during the summer, make sure to catch the spectacular sunset from a cruise. However, if you want to experience the magical sight of the illuminated Eiffel Tower, you have two options: stay until sundown or take the cruise first and then head to the Eiffel Tower afterwards. Either way, you won’t be disappointed by the stunning views that Paris has to offer.

Security

Security measures are in place at the Eiffel Tower, so be prepared to go through a bag check and metal detector. It’s best to bring only essential items with you and avoid bringing large bags or backpacks.

What to expect

The Eiffel Tower has three levels, and visitors can access each level by lift or stairs. The first level has a glass floor, which provides a unique view of the city. The second level has a restaurant, souvenir shop, and stunning views of Paris. The top level offers a 360-degree view of the city and is the perfect place to take photos.

Tips:

  • To make the most of your trip to the Eiffel Tower, here are some tips to keep in mind. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will do a lot of walking. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the off-season or early in the morning.
  • Usually bakeries (in French – boulangerie) open their doors early in the morning. Most of them have the word “Boulangerie” on their signboards, but to make it easier I’ve also found the closest bakeries to the Eiffel Tower.

Closest bakeries to the Eiffel Tower:

  • Boulangerie Jumel-Boulangerie Suffren 55 (on 55 Avenue de Suffren) opens at 7:30 a.m. and is closed on Sundays
  • Le Champ des Délices (on 145 Rue Saint-Dominique) opens at 7 a.m. and is closed on Mondays
  • Boulangerie Poilâne (on 49 Boulevard de Grenelle) opens at 7:15 a.m. and is closed on Mondays
  • Boulangerie Alsacienne B. Maeder (on 18 Rue de Lourmel) opens at 7 a.m. and is closed on Tuesdays

10. Paris plages | Parisian beach resorts

Plages in Paris - ASAP Tickets Blog

When visiting France, it’s worth considering venturing beyond Paris. While there are plenty of things to do in the city, don’t miss the opportunity to explore nearby beach resorts.

Paris, the city of love and fashion, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a beach vacation. However, there are several Parisian beach resorts that offer a perfect getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. 

Every summer since 2002, the banks of the Seine and the Bassin de la Villette are transformed into car-free urban beach resorts. This usually happens in late July.

Here’s a travel guide to help you plan your trip to a Parisian beach resort.

Location

Parisian beach resorts are typically located on the coast of Normandy or the Atlantic Ocean, and they are easily accessible by train or car from Paris. Some popular beach resorts include Deauville, Trouville, and Biarritz.

Accommodation

There are several accommodation options available in Parisian beach resorts, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. It’s best to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

Beach activities

Parisian beach resorts offer a variety of activities for visitors, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some resorts also offer horseback riding, golfing, and tennis. It’s best to check with the resort ahead of time to see what activities are available.

Food and drink

Parisian beach resorts offer a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional French cuisine to international dishes. Seafood is a popular choice, as many of the resorts are located near fishing villages. It’s also worth trying the local wines and spirits, such as Calvados and Cognac.

Sightseeing

While the main focus of a Parisian beach resort trip is relaxation, there are also several sightseeing opportunities in the surrounding areas. Some popular attractions include the D-Day beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, and the Basque Country.

Packing tips

When packing for your Parisian beach resort trip, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It’s also a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

The French are true to their word – the “beaches” are filled with white sand and there are deckchairs, beach bars, ice-cream sellers, concerts, and numerous sporting, water, and cultural events. Entry is free of charge and available to everyone. Just take your swimsuit and towel and head straight to the beach.

The French are true to their word – the “beaches” are filled with white sand, and there are deckchairs, beach bars, ice-cream sellers, concerts, and numerous sporting, water, and cultural events. Entry is free of charge and available to everyone. Just take your swimsuit and towel and head straight to the beach.

9. Free fashion show at Galeries Lafayette One of the Best Things to Do in Paris

Galeries Lafayette - ASAP Tickets Blog

Where? 40 Boulevard Haussmann

Galeries Lafayette is a world-famous shopping destination located in the heart of Paris. The iconic department store is known for its stunning architecture, luxurious brands, and unique shopping experience. Here’s a travel guide to help you plan your trip to Galeries Lafayette.

Location

Galeries Lafayette is located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. The store is easily accessible by metro, bus, or taxi. It’s also within walking distance of several other popular tourist attractions, such as the Opera Garnier and the Louvre Museum.

Opening hours

Galeries Lafayette is open seven days a week, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays. The store is busiest during the holiday season and summer months, so it’s best to visit during the week and avoid peak hours.

Shopping experience

Galeries Lafayette offers a unique shopping experience, with multiple floors dedicated to luxury brands, fashion, beauty, and home goods. The store also has a gourmet food section, where you can find delicious French delicacies and pastries.

Tax-free shopping

If you are a non-EU resident, you can take advantage of tax-free shopping at Galeries Lafayette. Be sure to bring your passport and ask for a tax refund form at the time of purchase. You can then receive a refund on the value-added tax when you leave the country.

Services

Galeries Lafayette offers several services to make your shopping experience more enjoyable, including personal shopping, concierge, and gift wrapping. There are also several dining options available, ranging from casual cafes to gourmet restaurants.

Tips

To make the most of your trip to Galeries Lafayette, here are some tips to keep in mind. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will do a lot of walking. Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and unique shopping experience. Consider visiting during the sales season, which typically occurs in January and July.

You can visit the free fashion shows at Galeries Lafayette every Friday to see popular department store collections. The show lasts for about 30 minutes and afterward, you’ll have time to stroll around the stunning gallery or go up to the rooftop to enjoy an impressive view of Paris.

The downside is that you need to reserve a place at the fashion show. Look for the Galeries Lafayette fashion show registration form to reserve your free tickets.

8. Experience the Best of Summer in Paris with These Free Events

Summer events in Paris - ASAP Tickets Blog

  • On June 21st, local musicians show off their talent in the streets of Paris during the Fête de la Musique. During this time, Paris is bursting with free live shows and concerts. It’s a wonderful experience.
  • In early July, during the Paris Cinéma festival, locals and tourists can enjoy free movie screenings and an outdoor Ciné-Karaoké on the banks of the Seine.
  • On Bastille Day (July 14th) Paris is filled with free outdoor events, including concerts, parades, and dances. A special event to end the day is the grand fireworks at Trocadéro.
  • From June to September, you can go to free concerts during the Les Pestacles and Paris Quartiers d’Été music festivals.

7. Explore the Rich Culture of Paris: Must-Visit Museums and Galleries

Paris Museums and Galleries - ASAP Tickets Blog

On the first Sunday of every month, you can visit national museums in Paris for free – including the Louvre, the Orsay, and the Musée Albert Kahn. It’s a very popular day to visit, so to avoid long lines, arrive when most museums open their doors – around 9 a.m.

Always free – Museum Carnavalet, the Fragonard Perfume Museum, the Musée Carnavalet, Le Plateau Centre d’art contemporain, the Musée D’art Moderne, Petit Palais, and other popular Parisian museums are always free.

Also, during the European Heritage Days in the third week of September, you can visit museums, ministries, the Elysée Palace Gardens, and in December, artist studios in Belleville, Ménilmontant, Père Lachaise, and the Viaduc des Arts without spending any money.

Paris is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and the city’s museums and galleries are among the best in the world. From art to history, there is a museum or gallery to suit every interest. Here’s a travel guide to help you plan your trip to Parisian museums and galleries.

Tickets and reservations

Many of Paris’s museums and galleries offer online ticket sales and reservations. This can save you time and hassle, especially during peak season when the lines can be long. Some museums also offer guided tours or audio guides, which can enhance your experience.

Art and history

Paris’s museums and galleries are renowned for their collections of art and history. The Louvre is home to some of the most famous works of art in the world, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. The Musee d’Orsay is dedicated to Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, while the Centre Pompidou is known for its modern and contemporary art.

Special exhibitions

In addition to their permanent collections, many Parisian museums and galleries also offer special exhibitions. These can range from themed exhibits to retrospectives of famous artists. It’s worth checking the museum’s website or local listings to see what exhibitions are currently on.

Museums and galleries off the beaten path

Paris is home to several smaller museums and galleries that are off the beaten path. These include the Musee Rodin, dedicated to the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin, and the Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature, which explores the relationship between humans and animals.

Tips

To make the most of your visit to Parisian museums and galleries, here are some tips to keep in mind. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking. Bring a camera to capture your favorite works of art. Consider purchasing a museum pass, which gives you access to several museums at a discounted price.

6. Discover a Hidden Gem: Picnic in the Square du Vert-Galant, One of the Most Underrated Things to Do in Paris

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Paris for couples, experience the real bohemian vibe and meet some lovely French people by enjoying a bottle of wine and some snacks in the Square du Vert-Galant – a small garden located next to the River Seine.

Picnicking is a popular pastime in Paris, and there are plenty of beautiful parks and gardens to choose from. One of the best places to have a picnic is the Square du Vert-Galant, located on the western tip of the Ile de la Cite. Here’s a travel guide to help you plan your picnic in the Square du Vert-Galant.

Location

The Square du Vert-Galant is located on the western tip of the Ile de la Cite, one of the two islands in the heart of Paris. It’s easily accessible by metro or bus, and within walking distance of several other popular tourist attractions, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle.

How to get there? 

Cross Pont Neuf bridge and look for the statue of Henri IV / Le Vert-Galant. Behind the statue, you’ll find steps to the Square du Vert-Galant.

Setting

The Square du Vert-Galant is a beautiful park with stunning views of the Seine River and the Pont Neuf. The park is named after King Henry IV, who was known as the “Green Gallant” for his romantic pursuits. It’s a popular spot for picnicking and sunbathing, and there are several benches and tables available.

Food and drink

To have a successful picnic, you’ll need to bring food and drink. There are several grocery stores and bakeries located nearby where you can purchase fresh bread, cheese, and wine. You can also bring your own food from home or pick up sandwiches from a nearby cafe.

Equipment

To have a comfortable picnic, you’ll need to bring a few essentials. A picnic blanket is a must, as well as plates, glasses, and utensils. You may also want to bring a small cooler to keep your drinks and food cool. Don’t forget to bring a trash bag to clean up after your picnic.

Activities

In addition to picnicking, there are several activities you can do in the Square du Vert-Galant. You can take a stroll along the Seine River, watch the boats go by, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can also bring a book or a game to play with friends or family.

Tips

To make the most of your picnic in the Square du Vert-Galant, here are some tips to keep in mind. Arrive early to secure a good spot. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Be respectful of other picnickers and keep the noise level down.

Best time? In the evening

If you want to experience the real bohemian Paris and meet some lovely French people, get a bottle of wine and some snacks and spend the evening like a local Parisian in the Square du Vert-Galant – a small garden next to the River Seine.

How to get there? Cross Pont Neuf bridge and look for the statue of Henri IV / Le Vert-Galant. Behind the statue, you’ll find steps to the Square du Vert-Galant.

5.Unwind and Rejuvenate for Free: Join These Yoga Classes in Paris

Tuileries garden - ASAP Tickets Blog

Yoga and meditation are two of the greatest experiences you can try in Paris for free. You can look up free yoga classes in the Tuileries Garden or try the meditation classes organized by the Kalachakra Center on Wednesday evenings.

4. Experience Authentic Parisian Cuisine for Free: Where to Find Delicious Meals in ParisFree

The most popular way to get a free appetizer or meal in Paris is to buy a beer or cocktail at a bar or restaurant.

Free couscous

Once a week, Le Bouillon Belge offers customers a free dish of couscous or mussels with chips. On Fridays and Saturdays, Le Grenier (from September to June) and Le Tribal Café serve free couscous, and on Fridays, Goutte d’Or offers homemade merguez couscous when you buy a drink.

Free appetizers

Culture Rapide (every Friday) and the Lockwood bar (every day after 6 p.m.) offer customers a free buffet of appetizers – crostini, tortillas, and charcuterie. You can also get a free plate of appetizers in At Delizie when you order an Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Bellini or any other drink after 6 p.m.

3. Free outdoor cooking classes

Cooking Classes Paris -ASAP Tickets Blog

Where? At a range of Paris greenmarkets

Learn some cooking tips and tricks from professional French chefs. Fédération Française de Cuisine organizes free cooking classes at several greenmarkets around Paris. Taking part in a cooking class is one of the best food experiences.

The classes are about one hour long and are guided by French cooks – so, as you may assume, they are in French, but this shouldn’t be a barrier.

To attend cooking classes – book here

2. Free wine tasting at La Dernière Goutte

Free Things to Do in Paris

La Dernière Goutte is a charming wine shop located in the heart of Paris, offering free wine tastings on select days. On weekends, one or two local winemakers visit the wine store La Dernière Goutte and all wine lovers who are curious are given the chance to taste delicious French wines for free. The winery also provides snacks and free cheese plates to customers.

The staff is English-speaking and very friendly. This is the place where you can enjoy an authentic French atmosphere with your friends and family.

Here’s a travel guide to help you plan your visit to La Dernière Goutte for a free wine tasting experience.

Location

La Dernière Goutte is located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, one of the most picturesque areas of Paris. The shop is easily accessible by metro or bus, and within walking distance of several other popular tourist attractions, such as the Luxembourg Gardens and the Musée d’Orsay.

Time

Every Friday from 5 p.m. & every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

History

La Dernière Goutte, which translates to “the last drop,” has been a fixture in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood since 1987. The shop is owned by Juan Sanchez, who has a passion for wine and a wealth of knowledge about the various regions and vintages.

Wine tastings

La Dernière Goutte offers free wine tastings on select days, usually on Saturday afternoons. The tastings feature a variety of wines from different regions of France, including reds, whites, and rosés. The tastings are open to the public and no reservation is required.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere at La Dernière Goutte is cozy and inviting, with wooden shelves lined with bottles of wine and knowledgeable staff who are eager to answer questions and offer recommendations. The shop is small, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot at the tasting.

Buying wine

After the tasting, you can purchase any of the wines that you enjoyed during the tasting. The staff is happy to offer recommendations and guidance on selecting the right wine for your taste and budget. Prices are reasonable, and you can even purchase wines that are difficult to find in other shops.

Tips

To make the most of your visit to La Dernière Goutte, here are some tips to keep in mind. Arrive early to secure a spot at the tasting. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek recommendations from the staff. Consider purchasing a bottle or two of your favorite wines to take home as a souvenir.

1. Top Things to Do in Paris at Night- Enjoy Movies under the Stars at Parc de la Villette

When

From July to August at around 10 p.m.

Where

Parc de la Villette, 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès

Every summer from Wednesday to Sunday in Parc de la Villette, tourists and Parisians alike can watch free movies. The open-air cinema shows one movie at a time, and it usually begins at around 10 p.m. If you’re planning to catch a free movie at Parc de la Villette, pack a blanket (you can also hire a deckchair for 7 EUR), arrive early, buy some snacks, and enjoy some classics.

The organizers pick a different theme every year. All movies will be shown in their original language and subtitled in French.

 

Isn’t this idea amazing? For many such exciting and off-the-beaten-path excursion ideas, read this blog, 5 of the Best Travel Guidebooks for Europe 2023

Conclusion

Paris, also known as the City of Light, is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting and culturally rich cities in the world. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there are countless things to do and explore in Paris that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or simply want to soak up the charming atmosphere, Paris has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ve highlighted some of the top things to do in Paris that will help you make the most of your visit. From picnicking in beautiful gardens and exploring world-renowned museums to enjoying free movies under the stars, Paris offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

So go ahead, plan your itinerary, and get ready to fall in love with the magic of Paris. Whatever your interests may be, you’re sure to find something that will captivate your heart and leave you longing to return to this stunning city time and time again.

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