Is It Expensive to Stay in Paris?

By Robert Palmer

Paris, the city of love, fashion, and art is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. However, many people are often deterred from visiting Paris due to the common misconception that it is an expensive city to stay in.

So, is it really expensive to stay in Paris? Let’s find out.

Accommodation

One of the biggest expenses when traveling is accommodation. In Paris, there are a variety of options for all budgets.

From luxurious 5-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels and everything in between. The prices for accommodation vary depending on the location, time of year and amenities offered.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, hostels and Airbnb rentals are your best bet. Hostels can cost as low as €20 per night while Airbnb rentals average at around €80 per night.

For those willing to splurge on luxury hotels, expect to pay upwards of €300 per night. However, keep in mind that many luxury hotels offer discounts during off-peak seasons.

Food

Parisian cuisine has a reputation for being expensive but this doesn’t have to be the case. There are plenty of affordable options available if you know where to look.

Street vendors offer delicious food at reasonable prices and there are many local markets where you can find fresh produce at a fraction of the cost compared to restaurants. If you’re on a tight budget, consider cooking your own meals using ingredients from local markets or grocery stores.

Of course, if you want to indulge in French gastronomy then expect to pay premium prices at high-end restaurants.

Transportation

Paris has an extensive public transportation system including buses and metros which makes getting around affordable and convenient. A single metro ticket costs around €1.90 while a pack of 10 tickets costs €14.90.

Taxis, on the other hand, are more expensive with a minimum fare of €7.10 and an additional charge per kilometer.

Activities

Paris is known for its many museums and landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum and more. Entrance fees to these attractions can be quite expensive with the Louvre Museum costing €17 per person.

However, there are also many free or low-cost activities available such as visiting parks, walking along the Seine River or exploring the Montmartre district.

Conclusion

So, is it expensive to stay in Paris? The answer is that it depends on your preferences and budget.

While Paris can be an expensive city, there are plenty of affordable options available if you know where to look. From budget-friendly accommodation to delicious street food and public transportation, there are ways to enjoy Paris without breaking the bank.