48 Hours in Paris: A Low-Cost Itinerary

Paris is often seen as a luxury destination, but with the right planning, it’s absolutely possible to enjoy the City of Light on a budget. Rich in history, culture, and cuisine, Paris offers countless free and affordable experiences for travelers who want to get the most without overspending.

Whether you’re wandering through charming neighborhoods, admiring iconic architecture, or enjoying a baguette by the Seine, this low-cost itinerary shows how to make the most of two days in Paris without breaking the bank.

A Short History of Paris

Paris was originally founded by a Celtic tribe called the Parisii around 250 BC. The Romans later established the city of Lutetia, which evolved into modern Paris over centuries. Strategically located on the Seine River, it has been a political, cultural, and economic hub for over 2,000 years.

From medieval cathedrals to Enlightenment salons and revolutionary barricades, Paris has played a pivotal role in French and European history. Today, it’s one of the world’s most visited cities, offering a mix of historical charm and modern energy.

How to Spend 48 Hours in Paris: Day 1

Start at Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité

Begin your day at Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore the surrounding Île de la Cité. Though the cathedral is still under restoration, the exterior remains a majestic sight and the area is rich with medieval architecture.

Stroll along the Seine, visit Place Dauphine, and enjoy the peaceful charm of this historic island. Entry to the area is free and filled with photo opportunities.

Walk to the Latin Quarter

Cross the bridge into the Latin Quarter, a historic student neighborhood known for its literary cafés and narrow lanes. Stop by Shakespeare and Company, a famous English-language bookstore.

Browse the open-air book stalls along the Seine and enjoy the vibrant street life and atmosphere.

Lunch at a Crêperie

Find a casual crêperie offering a lunch menu for around €8–€12. Choose a savory galette with cheese and ham or a sweet crêpe with Nutella and banana.

Many spots offer a combo meal with a drink, making it a filling and affordable lunch option.

Explore the Luxembourg Gardens

After lunch, head to the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of Paris’s most beautiful parks. Entry is free and you can relax by the fountains, stroll tree-lined paths, or visit the Medici Fountain.

Bring a book or snack and enjoy the scenery like a true Parisian.

Dinner in Montmartre

Take the metro to Montmartre and enjoy dinner in this artistic hilltop district. Look for restaurants near Rue des Abbesses for good deals and prix fixe menus under €18.

Try dishes like boeuf bourguignon or ratatouille, and take an evening walk to see the illuminated Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

How to Spend 48 Hours in Paris: Day 2

Morning at the Eiffel Tower (from the outside)

Start your day early at the Eiffel Tower. Skip the lines and entrance fees by admiring the structure from the ground or across the river at Trocadéro Gardens for postcard-worthy photos.

This area is ideal for a relaxed morning stroll and people-watching, especially when the tower sparkles on the hour after sunset.

Visit the Champs de Mars and Rue Cler

Walk through the Champs de Mars park and make your way to Rue Cler, a charming market street with bakeries, cheese shops, and affordable produce.

Pick up picnic supplies for lunch and enjoy them on a bench with Eiffel Tower views.

Afternoon in Le Marais

Head east to explore Le Marais, a stylish district full of galleries, small museums, and local boutiques. Entry to Place des Vosges is free and it’s one of Paris’s oldest and most elegant squares.

Stop by the free-entry Museum of the City of Paris (Musée Carnavalet) if time allows.

Dinner and Drinks along Canal Saint-Martin

End your trip in Canal Saint-Martin, a laid-back area with bistros and cafés. Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner like quiche, salmon tartine, or falafel wraps for under €15.

Wrap up your night with a glass of house wine or a local beer by the water.

What Else to See and Do If You Have More Time in Paris

Visit Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle offers stunning stained glass and Gothic architecture. Entry is free with the Paris Museum Pass or on the first Sunday of the month (Nov–Mar).

Go early to avoid crowds and appreciate the serenity of this royal chapel.

Tour Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise is one of the world’s most famous cemeteries. It’s free to visit and home to the graves of Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde.

Use a free map or app to guide yourself through the leafy paths and historical markers.

Walk the Promenade Plantée

Paris’s Promenade Plantée is a 4.7 km elevated park built on a former railway line. It’s free, scenic, and often quieter than tourist-packed areas.

Bring snacks, water, and enjoy a peaceful escape through nature and art.

Join a Free Walking Tour

Groups like Sandemans New Europe offer free tip-based walking tours across Paris. Topics range from the French Revolution to hidden gems of Montmartre.

Pre-book your spot online and come with comfortable shoes and a small tip.

Relax on the Seine Riverbanks

During warmer months, the banks of the Seine come alive with locals picnicking, dancing, or playing music. Paris Plages in summer offers pop-up beaches and free concerts.

It’s one of the best budget-friendly ways to enjoy the city like a Parisian.

How to Save Money on Your Trip in Paris

Paris can be expensive—but if you’re smart about when and where you spend, it’s totally possible to travel on a tight budget. Here are seven ways to save money while still enjoying the best the city has to offer:

• Visit museums on free days, usually the first Sunday of the month or during European Heritage Days in September.
• Buy a carnet of metro tickets or a Paris Visite Pass for unlimited transit instead of single fares.
• Eat lunch out, dinner in: lunch menus are cheaper, and grocery stores have ready-to-eat meals for evening picnics.
• Stay in budget-friendly arrondissements like the 11th, 12th, or 18th for cheaper lodging and authentic vibes.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and use the free Wallace fountains scattered throughout the city.
• Use free restrooms in malls or museums rather than paying for street toilets.
• Walk as much as possible—Paris is compact and best explored on foot!

Final Thoughts on Visiting Paris for Budget Travelers

Paris doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With some savvy planning, you can explore its timeless beauty, world-class sights, and hidden corners while sticking to a budget.

From riverside strolls to affordable gourmet meals, this 48-hour itinerary proves that Paris is magical—and manageable—even on a shoestring.