Paris, the City of Light, dazzles with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. France‘s capital is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, art, fashion, and romantic ambiance. Exploring the enchanting streets of Paris is a dream for many, but finding the cheapest time to go in 2024 without breaking the bank can be a challenge.
This guide will explore the intricacies of discovering the cheapest time to visit Paris, the City of Light. From navigating the fluctuations in airfare and accommodation prices to uncovering seasonal discounts and lesser-known travel hacks, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to find the cheapest time to book your holiday and make your Parisian getaway both unforgettable and affordable.
Cheapest Time to Visit Paris in 2024
Generally, the cheapest time to go to Paris is during the winter months, from November to March, excluding peak holiday times in Paris, like Christmas and New Year’s. Here’s a breakdown:
- Early January is typically the cheapest time to go to Paris. Flights and hotels will be at their lowest rates. However, some attractions may be closed during this time, and the weather can be quite cold.
- February: Similar to January, February is the cheapest time to travel to Paris and find deals on travel to Paris. The weather starts to warm up slightly, but it can still be chilly and rainy.
- March: It is a shoulder season month, meaning it falls between the peak and low seasons. You can still find good deals on travel, and the weather starts to become more pleasant. However, it can be one of the rainiest months in Paris.
Here are some reasons why winter is the cheapest time to go to Paris:
- Fewer tourists visit Paris in the winter, so there is less demand for flights and hotels.
- There are also fewer events and festivals happening in Paris in the winter, which can contribute to lower prices.
- Many businesses in Paris have sales in January and February, which can be a great time to score deals on souvenirs and other goods.
Of course, there are some downsides to visiting Paris in the winter. The weather can be cold and rainy, and some attractions may be closed. However, if you are on a budget and don’t mind the weather, winter can be a great & cheapest time to visit Paris.
Pros & Cons of Visiting Paris During the Cheapest Time
The cheapest time to go to Paris can offer significant advantages, but it also comes with certain drawbacks. Let’s break down the pros and cons:
Pros
- Lower Prices: This is the most obvious benefit. Expect discounted flights, accommodations, and even attractions.
- Smaller Crowds: Enjoy a more intimate experience of the city without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.
- Unique Atmosphere: Experience Paris in a different light, with a quieter, more local vibe.
Cons
- Weather: Depending on the time of year, you might encounter colder temperatures or rainy weather.
- Limited Hours: Some attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours or be closed altogether.
- Fewer Activities: Certain outdoor activities or events might not be available.
Cheapest Time to Fly to Paris
The cheapest time to fly to Paris is typically during the off-peak seasons. Winter months, from January to March, often feature lower airfare as the city experiences fewer tourists and cooler, rainier weather. Right after the holiday season, this period presents an opportunity to enjoy Paris more easily. Also, late fall (November) and early spring (April to May) are shoulder seasons. These months offer mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer, making them a cost-effective choice for travelers.
Booking flights several months in advance is advisable to find the cheapest flight time. Flexibility with travel dates can also help in finding lower fares. Utilizing fare comparison websites and setting up fare alerts for Paris can further assist in identifying the most budget-friendly options.
Cheapest Time to Book Hotels in Paris
Generally, the cheapest time to book hotels in Paris is during the off-peak season, which is typically from November to March. This is when you’ll find the lowest hotel prices and the best availability.
However, there are a few other factors to consider:
- Specific Dates: Even within the off-peak season, prices can fluctuate based on holidays, events, and trade shows.
- Booking in Advance: While waiting for last-minute deals is tempting, booking in advance often secures better rates, especially for popular hotels.
- Flexibility: Being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant savings.
Average Prices for Paris Holidays During These Cheapest Time
Here’s a breakdown of the average prices for a Paris trip during the cheapest times to visit (January, February, and early March):
- Flights: Round-trip flights from the US to Paris cost between $500 and $1000, depending on your departure city, airline, and exact travel dates.
- Accommodation: Hotels will be most affordable during this time. Budget for anywhere from $60 to $500 per night, depending on your desired location and hotel amenities. Hostels are a great option for budget travelers, with dorm beds costing around $30 per night.
- Activities: Entrance fees to popular attractions like the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower typically range from €15 to €25. You can purchase a Paris Museum Pass for discounted entry to many attractions, which can be a good value if you visit several museums.
You can find great deals on travel to Paris during winter and experience the City of Lights for less.
Cheapest Places & Things to Do in Paris in 2024
Here are some of the cheapest places and things to do in Paris in 2024:
Free Activities to Do in Paris 2024
- Explore the city on foot: Paris is a very walkable city with many beautiful neighborhoods to explore. Some of the most charming areas include Le Marais, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter.
- Visit the many free museums: Many museums in Paris offer free admission on certain days or at certain times. For example, the Louvre Museum is free on the first Sunday of every month, and the Musée Carnavalet (which houses the history of Paris) is always free. Here are some links to help you find free museums in Paris:
- Stroll through the beautiful gardens: Paris has many beautiful gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Some of the most popular gardens include the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Jardin des Tuileries, and the Palais-Royal Garden.
- Picnic in a park: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in one of Paris’ many parks. This is a great way to save money on meals and enjoy the outdoors.
- People-watch at a cafe: Parisians love to spend time at cafes, and people-watching is a great way to soak up the city’s atmosphere. Order a coffee or a glass of wine and relax for a while.
- Browse the window displays: Paris is known for its luxurious shops, and even if you can’t afford to buy anything, window shopping is a fun way to see some of the latest fashions.
- Attend a free concert or performance: Free concerts and performances often take place in Paris, especially during the summer months. Check out the local newspapers or online listings to see what’s on during your visit.
Budget-Friendly Activities
- Take a boat ride down the Seine River: A boat ride down the Seine River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Many different companies offer boat tours, and prices start at around €10.
- Climb the Arc de Triomphe: The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Climbing to the top is a small fee, but the views of the city are worth it.
- Visit the Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris would be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. While tickets to go to the top can be expensive, you can admire the tower from below for free. There are also several cafes and restaurants located near the Eiffel Tower where you can enjoy a meal with a view.
- Explore the Saint-Ouen Flea Market: This is the largest flea market in the world, and it’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and treasures. Be prepared to bargain!
- See a movie at a historic cinema: Paris has many historic cinemas that show classic and independent films. Tickets are typically cheaper than at mainstream cinemas.
- Enjoy a picnic dinner and watch the sunset over the Sacré-Coeur: The Sacré-Coeur is a basilica on Montmartre Hill. It offers stunning city views, and it’s a great place to enjoy a picnic dinner and watch the sunset.
Tips to Travel to Paris in 2024 on a Budget
- Travel during shoulder seasons (April-June or Sept-Oct) for good deals and pleasant weather.
- Stay in hostels or Airbnb with kitchens to save on accommodation and food costs.
- Explore the city on foot, use the Metro (€1.90/ticket), or rent a Velib bike (free for the first 30 minutes).
- Take advantage of free museums and parks (Louvre Museum free on 1st Sundays).
- Pack picnics for parks, or eat at creperies and bakeries for affordable meals.
- Limit restaurant dining (expensive) and stock up on groceries for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
While winter (November to March, excluding peak holidays) offers the lowest travel costs, expect colder weather and potential attraction closures.
Shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October) fall between peak tourist times. During these months, you'll find better deals on flights and hotels while enjoying pleasant weather.
Absolutely! Paris boasts numerous free options:
- Many museums offer free entry on specific days or times (check the Louvre's free Sundays!).
- Explore the city's beautiful parks and gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg, anyone?).
- Take advantage of free walking tours (optional guide tip).
