How much does it cost to travel to Paris (France)? Flights, accommodation, etc.

Planning a trip to Paris, the City of Light? Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a romantic vacation, or a cultural exploration, understanding the costs involved can help you plan your trip better. From flights and accommodation to food, attractions, and activities, we’ve put together a detailed cost breakdown for Paris, so you know what to expect depending on your budget. Keep reading to get an in-depth look at how much it costs to travel to Paris and make your trip as enjoyable and cost-effective as possible.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel or a cozy hostel, Paris has it all. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

Budget accommodations: Hostels and guesthouses in Paris typically cost between $40 and $100 per night. These are great for travelers on a tight budget and often include basic amenities such as shared kitchens and Wi-Fi. Popular areas for budget accommodations include Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, and near Gare du Nord.
Mid-range accommodations: If you’re looking for something a bit more comfortable, mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses offer rooms starting at $100 and can go up to $250 per night. You can find these hotels in neighborhoods like Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Bastille.
Luxury accommodations: For those who prefer luxury, Paris boasts an array of 5-star hotels and boutique luxury properties, with prices ranging from $300 to $600+ per night. The most famous areas for luxury hotels are Champs-Élysées, the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower, and the opulent Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

When to Go to Paris

The best time to visit Paris depends on your priorities—whether you’re looking for good weather, lower prices, or avoiding crowds. Here’s a breakdown:

High season: The peak tourist season in Paris is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and most attractions are open. However, expect higher prices for accommodation, flights, and attractions. Summer also sees larger crowds.
Low season: The low season falls in the winter months (November to March), excluding Christmas and New Year’s. This is a great time to visit if you're looking to save money, as prices for hotels and flights are much lower. The weather is cold, but Paris is less crowded.
Shoulder season: April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for most travelers. Prices tend to be more affordable compared to the summer months, making it a great balance of value and experience.

Airfare to Paris

The cost of flights to Paris varies depending on the time of year, the departure city, and how far in advance you book. Here’s a general idea of what you might expect:

From the U.S.: Round-trip flights from major cities like New York or Los Angeles to Paris typically range from $350 to $800, depending on the time of year and how early you book. The earlier you book, the better chance you have of finding discounted fares.
From Europe: If you're flying from within Europe, flights to Paris are generally much cheaper. Prices typically range from $50 to $200 for a round-trip ticket, depending on the departure city and time.
Budget airlines: If you’re looking to save on airfare, consider flying with budget airlines like Norwegian Air, EasyJet, or Ryanair, which often offer great deals to Paris. Be sure to check for hidden fees like baggage charges and seat selection fees.

Food in Paris

Paris is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from affordable street food to gourmet dining. Here’s what you can expect to pay for food during your visit:

Street food and casual dining: Enjoy a delicious baguette sandwich or crepe for as little as $5 to $10. Bakeries and cafés offer quick and affordable options, with pastries like croissants and pain au chocolat costing around $2 to $5 each.
Mid-range restaurants: A meal at a mid-range Parisian restaurant, including a starter, main course, and dessert, will typically cost between $20 and $40 per person. Expect to find these restaurants in areas like Montmartre or the Marais.
Fine dining: Paris is home to many Michelin-starred restaurants, where a three-course meal can range from $60 to $200 per person, depending on the restaurant. For a truly luxurious dining experience, you can easily spend upwards of $300 per person at top-tier restaurants.

Attractions and Tourist Spots

Paris is famous for its world-renowned landmarks, museums, and attractions. Here’s a look at what you’ll need to budget for:

Eiffel Tower: A visit to the Eiffel Tower costs around $20 to $30 for the ticket to the second floor and around $30 to $40 to go all the way to the top. Booking in advance online can sometimes offer discounts.
Louvre Museum: The Louvre’s general admission ticket costs about $20. However, there are often discounts or free entry days, so check their website before your visit.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Entrance to Notre-Dame is free, but if you want to visit the towers, there is a fee of about $10.
Seine River Cruise: A popular activity is a Seine River cruise, which typically costs $15 to $30 per person, depending on the type of cruise (e.g., with dinner or a private tour).

Excursions and Tours in Paris

Paris is a city best explored with a mix of self-guided exploration and organized tours. Here are some tour options to consider:

Hop-on hop-off bus tours: These tours cost around $35 to $45 per person and allow you to explore Paris at your own pace with the flexibility to hop on and off at major attractions.
Guided city tours: Walking tours of iconic neighborhoods like Montmartre or the Latin Quarter cost around $25 to $50 per person. Private tours with a guide can range from $100 to $200 per day, depending on the length and exclusivity.
Day trips: If you want to venture outside of Paris, day trips to places like the Palace of Versailles or Disneyland Paris typically cost $50 to $150 per person, including transportation and admission fees.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential when traveling abroad, especially to a major city like Paris. The cost of travel insurance depends on factors such as the length of your trip, the type of coverage, and your age. Here's what to expect:

Basic travel insurance: For a short trip, you can expect to pay around $40 to $60 for basic coverage, which typically includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.
Comprehensive travel insurance: More comprehensive plans, covering things like extreme sports or higher medical coverage, can cost between $80 and $150 for a one- to two-week trip.

General Tips for Saving Money in Paris

While Paris can be an expensive city, there are plenty of ways to save money and still have an amazing trip:

Use public transportation: The Paris Métro is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. A single metro ticket costs about $2, and a carnet (set of 10 tickets) is available for around $15.
Free attractions: Many museums offer free entry on certain days of the month. Additionally, iconic spots like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont are free to visit.
Buy a museum pass: The Paris Museum Pass gives you access to more than 50 museums and attractions for a fixed price, ranging from $50 for 2 days to $70 for 4 days, saving you both time and money.

Car Rental in Paris

While renting a car in Paris isn’t necessary (public transportation is excellent), it can be useful if you plan to explore areas outside the city, such as the Loire Valley or Normandy. Here's what to expect:

Car rental prices: Car rental prices in Paris typically range from $30 to $60 per day for a compact car, depending on the season and availability.
Parking costs: Parking in Paris can be expensive, with rates ranging from $3 to $6 per hour in central areas. Consider parking in less touristy areas and using public transportation to get around.

Internet and Communication Chip in Paris

Staying connected while in Paris is easy with several options for mobile data and Wi-Fi:

Wi-Fi: Many cafés, restaurants, and public places offer free Wi-Fi. Additionally, Paris has numerous Wi-Fi hotspots.
SIM card: You can purchase a SIM card with data at the airport or local shops for around $20 to $40, depending on your needs.

By following these tips and understanding the costs involved, you can easily plan a memorable and cost-effective trip to Paris. Remember, costs can vary, so it’s always good to check in advance and plan accordingly!