10 Romantic Things to Do in Paris on a Budget

Paris has plenty of romance to offer...which makes it one of the most expensive (and crowded) tourist destinations in the world. Looking for some budget-friendly romantic spots in Paris?

Disclosure: some of the links below are affiliate links. If you purchase a linked item, I will make a commission, at no extra charge to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Updated April, 2020.

Romantic Paris on a Budget

Recently, a couple of friends have asked me for tips for a romantic (yet budget-friendly) visit to Paris. So, naturally, that got the juices flowing and a blog post was born!

​While Paris is undeniably romantic, and strolling its quaint street is a goal for many amorous and honeymooning couples, the global tourism boom has definitely increased the number of people looking to share similar experiences. And, on top of that, comes the expense of a high-end, global city that has been the center of world fashion for centuries.

Certainly, crowds shouldn't deter or intimidate you, as they can be easily avoided with a bit of preparation. And, I would argue, budgeting for Paris is as easy as finding free and reasonably-priced events and focusing your spending on events and experiences that matter most to you. Easier said than done, you say? Let's discuss my top 10 romantic things to do in Paris on a budget! 

And don't forget to subscribe to the blog emails, below, for my free, downloadable carry-on packing guide for Europe!

Tips for Enjoying Paris on a Budget

Before we get to our list of romantic things to do in Paris on a budget, let's discuss a few good budgeting tips for Paris, generally.

Budgeting in Paris:
​French food doesn't have to be expensive

The French are serious about their food and wine. You can eat meals in Paris that will make your credit card melt in the machine. While those are amazing, there's no reason you can't enjoy Paris more cheaply. Picnics, cafes, and groceries are all great ways to experience French food without the added price of waitstaff, sitting down, expensive wine, etc.

​Put your money where you'll enjoy it most. Pick a couple restaurants you really want to try, and save your Euros on lunches. Be careful with restaurant recommendations - *always* check the menu before you go to get a sense of princes. Paris is an expensive city, and as food is important to the French, they do have a tendency to recommend places we might find expensive.

Read up on selecting restaurants in Europe

Budgeting in Paris: Picking the right museums

As we'll discuss below, museums in France actually aren't that expensive, on the whole. If you've spent time in London, or in the USA, you'll likely be pleasantly surprised. But remember, you don't have to go to every museum in the city. Pick the ones you truly want to see and enjoy your time there.

Budgeting in Paris: Seek out free venues

I've highlighted a few below. Churches (often), cemeteries, parks, and of course just walking, are free - and no less enjoyable for the savings!

Budgeting in Paris: Walk!

Paris's Metro is amazing (and not super expensive), but when you can, avoid taxis if you can reasonably walk. Walking in Paris saves *so much money* and you never know what you'll find on the way!

10 Romantic Things to do in Paris
on a Budget

Romantic Paris on a Budget:
​Dinner on the Left Bank & Luxembourg Gardens

Paris's Left Bank, or Rive Gauche, is undeniably high-end. With gorgeous buildings, exquisite shopping, and plenty of places to grab a glass of vino, taking a turn around the Left Bank should be on any romantic Paris to-do list. We spent our first-ever evening in Paris exploring the Left Bank, and I wouldn't have it any other way!
Check out my Paris Left Bank Guide!

View from Aux Vieux Colombier, Paris

Romantic Paris on a Budget:
​Explore Paris's Churches

Take a peak inside random churches you walk by on your adventures - they'll almost inevitably impress you. While the "big ones" such as Sacre Coeur and Sainte-Chapelle should definitely be on your list, they don't necessarily top the "romantic" list, given the crowds, lines, & flocks of fellow tourists. So take some time to wander and explore.

​Like all architecture in Paris, the city's churches have an undeniable flair. France has an admittedly complex history with the church, but today, exploring the city's many places of worship is easy, quick, enjoyable, and often free. 

Paroisse Saint-Paul Saint-Louis, Le Marais

Romantic Paris on a Budget: Strolling in Le Marais

When people think of shopping in Paris, I generally find that they think of the Champs-Elysees, certainly one of the world's most sought-after shopping destinations. But if you're looking for a more relaxing atmosphere, more "attainable" shops, and quainter eateries, look no further than my personal favorite neighborhood in Paris, Le Marais. Le Marais also has a great collection of churches, if you want to blend two of my suggestions!

Romantic Paris on a Budget:
​Explore the Louvre at Night

The Louvre, during a night opening

​The Louvre, one of the most visited museums in the world, might not be the first item that comes to mind when you think of romantic, but at *night,* the Louvre really comes to life. These special openings are available Wednesdays and Fridays. 

Confirm on the Louvre's official website for details and ticketing. French museums are subsidized by the state, so tickets won't break the bank.​ The first Saturday of each month, the Louvre is free in the evening. Beware of crowds, though.

Romantic Paris on a Budget: Wander Pere Lachaise

Paris's most famous cemetery is *free* to wander. The final resting place of Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and famous lovers Eloise and Abelard, the cemetery has an eerie romanticism that's at its height in late fall. The amount of effort that went into the construction of the tombs is endlessly eye-watering.

​Check out my Pere Lachaise Guide for more information.

Pere Lachaise Cemetery, Paris

Romantic Paris on a Budget: The Rodin Museum

The Rodin Museum, Paris

Just 13 euros per person, if you're looking for a relaxing museum experience, check out the Rodin Museum. Rodin's sculptures are certainly evocative, and the setting - in his former mansion - is incredible. Stroll the grounds of the home and visit the cafe during your visit. A mid-museum cocktail is always a good idea.

Rodin's The Kiss

The Rodin Museum, Paris

Romantic Paris on a Budget:
​Picnic on Ile Saint-Louis

One of the cheapest dining options on our list, a romantic picnic on Ile Saint-Louis is only as expensive as the food and wine you choose to purchase. You can pick a bench, or pull up a bit of stony ground, and join the locals, munching and watching the sun go down. There are little shops around selling delicious food.
​Check out my full guide to Paris's Best Picnic Spots.

Romantic Paris on a Budget: Local Pastries

French pastries are worth every penny. From the love and care that's put into each one by the chefs, down to the packaging (they don't ask whether you need it done up like that, but just whisk it away before you can say you're just going to eat it on their front step). A fresh macaroon, as you stroll Le Marais? Oui, s'il vous plait!

A French pastry all wrapped up in Le Marais

Unwrapped: the largest macaroon ever

Romantic Paris on a Budget:
​Lunch at the Petit Palais

Lunch at the cafe in Le Jardin du Petit Palais was one of my favorite dining experiences in Paris. It's surprisingly reasonably priced. There are no waiters (You wait in line and then they bring the food to your table).  And you get all the ambiance of the Petit Palais - yours to enjoy! Be sure to sit outside, if you can!

For more to do in this area, check out the full post on the Champs-Elysees.

Petit Palais, Paris

Romantic Paris on a Budget:
​Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle 

There's a reason that the Seine is packed with ships tooling up and down its lengths every night. That said, cruises with a full dinner come with a hefty price tag. We were very lucky to receive it as a gift - try asking for it for your wedding, if you're going for your honeymoon! That said, cruises that don't include a full dinner are decidedly more affordable, and you get the same views! Our tour operator, Bateaux-Mouches offered a variety of options!

Or, if you're looking for an even more budget-friendly option, how about picnicking and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle? Well, that's free! I found the perfect spot, described in my full post on Picnicking in Paris.

Bon voyage!

Have a spectacular time in Paris - you'll absolutely leave wanting to immediately return! Thanks so much for letting me be part of your Europe travel planning process! xx
​Don't forget to sign-up for the blog newsletter!

Love it? Pin it!