The Best of Budget-Friendly Paris
Discover the best of the City of Light even on a tight budget. From inexpensive museums you really must see to the bars with the best happy-hour offers, these are the best places in Paris to enjoy la vie en rose without putting your account into the rouge! Be sure to check out our list of the best budget-friendly hotels in Paris too.
How much is a “cheap meal” in Paris?
At a sit-down restaurant in Paris, the most inexpensive meal you can expect is around 7-10€ per person for lunch, or 10-15€ for dinner.
If you’re up for a quick bite from a street food spot (including bakeries, falafel shops, or kebabs), plan on paying 5-7€.
Willing to spend a little more for a meal? Taste test one of these mid-priced restaurants in Paris instead.
What’s the typical cost for a cheap drink in Paris?
The cheapest pints in Paris cost 3.50-5€ and can only be found during happy hours (generally 5-7pm) in student-friendly bars in the Latin Quarter as well as on the Rue des Lombards in the center of Paris.
Outside of these heures heureuses, you’ll find plenty of pubs and cafés serving pints for 5€ – 8€.
If mixed drinks are more your speed, you can expect to spend between 8€ and 12€ for a cocktail.
Budget-friendly bars in Paris charge 3.50€ – 6€ for a glass of wine.
Don’t have a friend in Paris to point you to all the best places? You do as a part of our Urbansider Club! Join for free for access to personalized recommendations, downloadable guides, and a monthly newsletter with the latest from Paris as well as our new top addresses and experiences. You’ll also be invited to our exclusive Urbansider events in Paris.
Looking to experience Paris at a different price point?

The Best Free Things To Do In Paris
France’s capital may have a reputation for being expensive, but there are a (perhaps) surprising number of free things to do in Paris. We’re sharing all of our local favorites for getting the most out of the City of Light without opening your wallet, from the best free museums in Paris and top art galleries to must-see city streets and beautiful parks or gardens.

Affordable Paris Restaurants, Bars, & Boutiques
We know it can be tough to find the places that strike the perfect balance between budget-friendly and good quality when in a new city, that’s why we’ve put together this carefully curated list of the best authentic and affordable things to do in Paris. These mid-priced restaurants, bars, boutiques, and museums will have you soaking up the best of Parisian life without feeling like you’re scrimping either.

The Best Upscale Paris Restaurants, Bars, & Boutiques
Whether for an elegant evening out, a nice business lunch, chic pre-dinner drinks, or sophisticated fashions, these upscale Paris restaurants, bars, and boutiques offer a refined atmosphere and experience.























