Paris on a Budget: Quick tips
Make the most of your Paris adventure without overspending – smart strategies for Aussie travellers.
Table of contents:
Paris may be one of the world’s most iconic cities, but exploring it doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Whether you’re planning 5 days in Paris on a budget or just passing through for a quick escape, this guide is packed with practical tips to help Australian travellers experience the best of the City of Light — affordably.
Before jetting off, remember: Prepare for your trip by reserving your travel money online in advance! Enjoy significant savings with excellent rates and 0% commission on a wide range of currencies, including exotic ones.
With Prosegur Change, you can reserve your euros in advance and collect them at major Australian airports — a safe and easy option trusted by travellers worldwide.
Affordable ways to eat in Paris
French cuisine is a highlight of any trip to Paris, but you don’t need to dine in high-end restaurants to eat well. With a few smart choices, you can savour local flavours without overspending.
- Opt for boulangeries and street food: Grab a baguette sandwich, croissant or crêpe for under €5.
- Picnic like a Parisian: Pick up cheese, fruit and bread from a local market and enjoy your meal in parks like Jardin du Luxembourg or along the Seine.
- Menus du jour: Look for lunch specials in bistros, usually offering two or three courses at a reduced price.
Paying with cash at small eateries and market stalls is still common — another reason to have your euros ready before you fly.
Getting around on a budget
Paris is well connected, and getting around the city doesn't have to cost much if you plan ahead.
Walking and public transport are both excellent options for budget travellers.
- Buy a carnet (10-pack) of metro tickets or consider a Navigo Week Pass for unlimited public transport.
- Skip the taxis: Paris is wonderfully walkable — many major sights are closer than you think.
- Download local apps like RATP or Citymapper for free navigation and real-time metro updates.
Free and low-cost attractions
Not every Parisian experience comes with a price tag. In fact, some of the most memorable parts of the city are completely free or surprisingly affordable.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral (grounds) and Sacré-Cœur Basilica
- Free museum entry on the first Sunday of each month at places like Musée d'Orsay and the Louvre
- Sunset from the Seine bridges or strolls along the Canal Saint-Martin
For paid sights, buy tickets online in advance to save time and occasionally score discounts.
Smart money tips in Paris
While cards are widely accepted in major stores and restaurants, many cafés, bakeries, markets and metro ticket machines prefer cash. It’s a smart move to arrive with some euros in your wallet.
By exchanging your AUD to EUR before your trip, you avoid inflated airport rates in Paris or risky street exchange offers.
Use Prosegur Change’s online platform to get the best euro exchange rate and 0% commission, then pick up your currency at the airport before departure.
And remember — Prosegur Change is trusted by Prosegur with 30+ years of experience, giving you the peace of mind you need when planning your trip finances.
If you're planning your first trip to Paris or simply want to avoid unnecessary expenses, these frequently asked questions will help you prepare smarter and spend wisely.
Common questions for budget travellers in Paris
The best way is to reserve your euros online in advance via a trusted provider like Prosegur Change, and collect them at the airport. You’ll avoid hidden fees and get 0% commission.
Depending on your itinerary, budget travellers spend around €60–€90 per day. Having at least €300 in cash can cover small daily purchases and transport.
Yes, but some cards charge foreign transaction or withdrawal fees. It’s best to mix cash and card, and use cash where small vendors prefer it.
Some bureaux de change in Paris charge high fees or have poor rates. Exchanging before you travel is safer and offers better value.
Ready to explore Paris affordably?
With a bit of planning, Paris can be magical on any budget. From fresh croissants to sunset river walks, the city offers unforgettable moments that don’t cost a fortune.
Just don’t forget: secure your euros before departure for a smooth and stress-free start. Prosegur Change helps you do just that — safely and affordably.
