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Top 10 free things to do in Paris | Paris holidays

France, Paris, having a break on the Pont des Arts, view of the Pont Neuf (New bridge)While in Paris, immerse yourself in the city's enchanting views and stay at one of the many exquisite hotels such as Le Senat Paris, for example, that offer a perfect blend of comfort and proximity to stunning landmarks. One such breathtaking view can be found at the Pont des Arts, where you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Pont Neuf (New Bridge). Visiting this bridge not only allows you to take a break and marvel at the beauty that surrounds you, but it also offers an excellent opportunity to capture the city's captivating scenery. As one of the most sought-after activities for locals and tourists alike, this awe-inspiring experience comes with no cost, making it a must-see during your Parisian adventure. By choosing a hotel near the Pont des Arts, you can enhance your stay with easy access to this picturesque viewpoint, ensuring unforgettable memories of your time in the City of Light.

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Exciting and Free Activities in Paris

Paris is not only a breathtaking city but it can also be quite pricey. However, don't worry! We have compiled a list of the top 10 free things to do in Paris, so you can enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

From stunning city views to artistic galleries and fashionable shows, you'll find a variety of free activities that will make your trip memorable.

Discover Paris for Free on First Sundays

Did you know that you can explore some of Paris' top museums and monuments for free on the first Sunday of every month? Thanks to the free first Sundays programme, you have a chance to visit popular attractions like the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay without spending a dime. But the excitement doesn't stop there! You can also discover hidden gems such as the Albert-Kahn musée et jardins, dedicated to beautiful gardens from around the world, and the Musée de l'Assistance Publique, which tells the fascinating history of Paris hospitals.

Take advantage of the free Sundays programme to explore places you may not have considered before. It's the perfect opportunity to wander through the doors of these unique locations, all without worrying about admission fees.

Ready to plan your free Sunday adventure? Find more information about free admission and good deals on en.parisinfo.com.

Enjoy a Movie Night Under the Stars at Parc de la Villette!

Parc de la Villette open air cinema

If you find yourself in Paris during the summer, don't miss the opportunity to have a memorable evening at the Parc de la Villette's free open-air cinema. From July to August, this special event takes place, showcasing a series of movies following a unique theme. The theme for this year is "Tous en scène'" or "Everybody on stage," featuring beloved films like Where the Wild Things Are, Be Kind Rewind, and The Killing.

This open-air cinema experience is not only a great way to enjoy a movie, but it's also a chance to be part of a vibrant community event. If sitting on the grass isn't your thing, you can upgrade to a comfortable deckchair for an additional €7. This option allows you to relax and immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the outdoor theater.

Located in the 19th arrondissement, Parc de la Villette is the perfect setting for this unique cinematic experience. To find out more about the event and plan your visit, visit villette.com/fr.

Don't miss out on this unforgettable movie night in Paris!

Take a Walk in the Enchanting Jardin du Luxembourg

Huge golden head in the Jardin du Luxembourg

Photograph: Alamy

Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Jardin du Luxembourg, a stunning city park that will captivate your senses. As the second largest park in Paris and the garden of the French senate, it offers a perfect escape from the bustling city streets. Dating back to the 17th century, this meticulously designed garden mesmerizes visitors with its vast collection of statues, monuments, and fountains. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the original model of the iconic Statue of Liberty by Frédéric Bartholdi, tucked away amidst the well-maintained flora. Conveniently located near many of Paris's top attractions, this park is a haven for sightseers looking to unwind, relax with a good book, or indulge in a delightful picnic.
Rue de Médicis-Rue de Vaugirard, 6th arrondissement, senat.fr/jardin

Explore the Love Wall in Montmartre

Love wall Place des Abbesses Paris

Photograph: Alibi Productions/Alamy

If you're not a fan of cheesy, romantic photo ops, then the Love Wall in Montmartre might not be your cup of tea. However, since Paris is known as the city of love, it's no surprise that this mural attracts countless visitors seeking to capture a lovey-dovey holiday snap. The wall is the brainchild of Frederic Baron, who started collecting "I Love You" messages in 1992. He later partnered with artist and calligrapher Claire Kito to create the stunning mural. The Love Wall is conveniently located near the magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica, a must-see attraction in Paris that you can visit free of charge.

Location: Place des Abbesses, 18th Arrondissement

Visit lesjetaime.com for more information.

Explore the Magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Expedia: Paris, View of Notre dame de paris

Get ready to be captivated by the breathtaking view of Paris from the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. This mesmerizing landmark stands proud on the Île de la Cité, right in the heart of the Seine River. With its slender gothic buttresses and dazzling stained glass windows, Notre Dame is a sight to behold both inside and out. As you explore the square and stroll along the bridges surrounding the cathedral, you'll encounter talented buskers ranging from full live bands to captivating human statues, creating an enchanting atmosphere that attracts crowds of people.

If you plan to visit, make sure to head to Place Jean-Paul II in the 4th arrondissement. For more information, you can visit the official website at notredamedeparis.fr. The cathedral is open daily from 8 am to 6:45 pm (7:15 pm on weekends), allowing you ample time to immerse yourself in the grandeur and history of this iconic Parisian landmark.

Discover the Fascinating Père Lachaise Cemetery

A woman kissing Oscar Wilde's grave at Père Lachaise cemetery.

A woman affectionately planting a kiss on the grave of Oscar Wilde at Père Lachaise. Captured by Peter Horree/Alamy

In the heart of Paris' 20th arrondissement, a massive stone entrance reveals the breathtaking expanse of Père Lachaise cemetery. Spanning across 100 acres, this cemetery hosts a mesmerizing collection of more than 69,000 ornate and often extravagant graves, tombs, and memorials. With a parade of renowned personalities laid to rest here, it's no wonder that Père Lachaise ranks as the world's most frequently visited burial ground.

The lineup of distinguished individuals interred at Père Lachaise is awe-inspiring. Among them is Georges Rodenbach, whose memorial boasts a captivating bronze figure liberating itself from the confines of the grave. Visitors once adorned Oscar Wilde's tomb with red lipstick kisses, an enduring tribute. Jim Morrison, the iconic frontman of The Doors, rests in a modest grave marked by a simple stone, attracting hoards of devoted fans yearly.
Address: 16 rue du Repos, 20th arr, +33 1 43 70 70 33, Visit the official website of Père Lachaise Cemetery. Opening hours vary, with Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm and Sat 8.30am-5.30pm during November 6-March 15. For March 16-November 5, the cemetery extends its opening time by an additional half hour on weekdays.

Experience stay in Paris hotel for affordable price

When planning your dream trip to Paris, choosing the perfect accommodation is key to making your stay truly memorable. Affordable accomodation is a eky to save your budget and feel comfort at the same time. Luckily, there are several outstanding options that offer a delightful Parisian experience. Hotel Bel Ami Paris on bel-ami.parishotelinn.com, situated in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, boasts contemporary elegance and is within easy reach of renowned attractions like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. For a cozy and inviting stay, Relais Bosquet on relais-bosquet.parishotelinn.com, located in the charming neighborhood of Eiffel Tower, offers proximity to the iconic landmark, allowing you to soak in breathtaking views of the City of Light. Alternatively, consider Jardins Eiffel on les-jardins-deiffel.parishotelinn.com, a gem nestled just steps away from the magnificent Eiffel Tower, providing a picture-perfect setting and easy access to Champ de Mars and other captivating spots. Whether you seek vibrant cultural experiences, iconic landmarks, or charming ambiance, these hotels ensure an unforgettable stay in the enchanting city of Paris.


Experience the Artistry at Atelier Brancusi

Atelier Brancusi

Marvel at the incredible sculptures showcased at Atelier Brancusi, the free-to-visit studio of the world-renowned artist Constantin Brancusi. Located in the same square as the famous Pompidou Centre, this revolutionary sculptor's workshop has been meticulously reconstructed in a modern pavilion by the Pompidou Centre.

When you step into Atelier Brancusi, you'll immerse yourself in the very space where Brancusi brought his artistic visions to life. Discover a collection of works that have redefined modern sculpture and get a unique glimpse into the artist's creative process.

To plan your visit, head over to centrepompidou.fr for more information. Atelier Brancusi is open daily from 2pm to 6pm, with the exception of Tuesdays. Experience the artistry and craftsmanship of Brancusi's sculptures at this mesmerizing destination located in the 4th arrondissement. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore one of the most significant contributions to the world of modern art.

Experience the Beautiful Walk along La Promenade Plantée

The stunning view of Le Viaduc des Arts from the Promenade Plantee

Photo Credit: Alamy

Take a step back in time and discover the captivating charm of La Promenade Plantée. This enchanting tree-lined pathway, situated on a historic elevated railway line in eastern Paris, opened its doors to the public in 1993, long before the famous High Line of New York City. Spanning an impressive 4.5 kilometers, this extraordinary trail offers a delightful way to immerse yourself in the heart of the city.

As you embark on this memorable journey, you will traverse staircases, wander across viaducts, and experience the thrill of walking above the bustling streets below. Along the way, you may catch a glimpse of Parisians gazing out from their lucky apartments, basking in the elevated beauty that this walkway provides.

One of the notable highlights of La Promenade Plantée is its passage over the iconic Viaduc des Arts, where the arches are now home to captivating galleries that infuse the ambiance with artistic energy.

Located in the 12th arrondissement, La Promenade Plantée awaits curious explorers seeking a unique adventure in the heart of Paris. For more information, visit promenade-plantee.org.

Enjoy a Late-Night Picnic at the Square du Vert-Galant

People drinking cocktails at Square du Vert-Galant

Photograph: Alamy

If you want to experience the true bohemian vibe of Midnight in Paris, head to the Square du Vert-Galant in the evening with a bottle of wine. Located on the western tip of the Île de la Cité, this charming park can be accessed by descending the stairs from Pont Neuf. During the summer, you'll find people lounging on the grass, admiring the view, and observing the passing boats on both sides of the island. Keep an eye out for sparkling tea lights floating downstream, adding an extra touch of Parisian magic to the scene.
Pont Neuf, Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois, 1st arr

Experience a Fashion Show at Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette with Christmas decorations

Photograph: Charles Platiau/Reuters

If attending Paris Fashion Week seems out of reach, don't worry! You can still get a taste of fashion every Friday afternoon at Galeries Lafayette department store. These exciting shows feature professional models showcasing the store's latest fashion collection. While the shows are free, it's advisable to book your seat in advance and confirm the show schedule by contacting the store.

For reservations and inquiries:

Call: +33 0142 823025

Email: fashionshow@galerieslafayette.com

Visit galerieslafayette.com for more information

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