Paris might be one of the world’s most romantic and glamorous cities, but exploring it doesn’t have to drain your savings. If you’ve only got 2 days in Paris and want to keep your total spend under $500, don’t worry — it’s possible with smart planning. From affordable stays to budget-friendly meals and sightseeing hacks, this guide will give you the perfect Paris in 2 days itinerary without breaking the bank.
Why 2 Days in Paris Works
Of course, you could spend weeks in Paris and still not see it all. But two days gives you just enough time to soak up its most iconic landmarks, sample local food, and feel the city’s charm. And with a carefully crafted budget-friendly Paris itinerary, you can hit the highlights while keeping costs low.
If you want detailed information on city services and events while visiting, check the official Paris City Hall website.
Budget Breakdown for 2 Days in Paris (Approx. $500)
- Accommodation (2 nights): $160–$200 (budget boutique hotels in Paris or cheap hotel room Paris)
- Food & Drinks: $80–$100 (cafés, street food, bakery meals)
- Transport: $25–$30 (metro passes + walking). If you need guidance on metro, RER, or bus routes, visit the official RATP site for schedules and fare info.
- Attractions & Activities: $120–$140 (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Seine River cruise)
- Miscellaneous/Souvenirs: $20–$30
- Looking for an affordable romantic escape? Explore our Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in the US under $1000 for Couples and plan your perfect getaway.
Budget Tip: If you’re traveling as a couple, you’ll save more by splitting the cost of budget stays in Paris.
Paris is magical, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. In this 2-day Paris itinerary, you’ll get:
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Things to do in Paris in 2 days
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Budget tips to save money
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Best budget hotels in Paris
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Complete $500 cost breakdown
Day 1 – Classic Paris Highlights
If you want more ideas for attractions and travel tips, explore the Visit Paris Region official tourism site.
Morning – Eiffel Tower & Seine River
Start your Paris adventure at the city’s most iconic landmark: the Eiffel Tower. Book your tickets online in advance to save both money and time. Skip the lift and take the stairs if you’re up for it — it’s cheaper and gives you unique views along the way.
Afterward, stroll along the Seine River or hop on a budget-friendly Seine River cruise. It’s one of the best ways to see Paris in 2 days without spending too much. If you prefer staying on land, cross the Pont Alexandre III bridge for gorgeous panoramic photos.
Things to Do:
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Take the stairs up the Eiffel Tower for unique views.
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Walk across Pont Alexandre III, the most elegant bridge in Paris.
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Capture photos of the Seine River and Paris skyline.
Budget Tip: Bring a croissant and coffee from a local bakery (around $5) and enjoy a “picnic breakfast” on the Champ de Mars lawn instead of paying for pricey tower cafés.
Afternoon – Louvre Museum & Tuileries Garden
If you’re interested in visiting multiple museums efficiently, check the official Paris Museum Pass website for tickets and access details.
No Paris in 2 days itinerary is complete without the Louvre. The museum is massive, so focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory. Book online tickets ($20 approx.) to avoid long lines.
Once you’re done, relax at the Tuileries Garden. It’s free, beautiful, and perfect for a budget-friendly lunch break. Grab a baguette sandwich or crêpe (about $7–$10) and soak in the Parisian vibe.
If time allows, walk over to the Palais Royal courtyard, home to the famous striped columns — a free and Instagram-worthy spot.
Things to Do:
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Visit the Louvre and focus on the highlights.
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Relax at the Tuileries Garden fountains.
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Explore the Palais Royal courtyard for free photo ops.
Budget Tip: If you’re under 26 and an EU resident, many museums (including the Louvre) are free. Otherwise, look for evening discounts or free entry days.
Evening – Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Take a leisurely walk down the Champs-Élysées, lined with boutiques, cafés, and theaters. Grab a cheap street snack like roasted chestnuts or a Nutella crêpe (around $5) along the way.
End your first day at the Arc de Triomphe. Climbing to the top ($15) rewards you with stunning night views of the city’s sparkling streets. If you don’t want to pay, enjoy the view from ground level and catch the Eiffel Tower light show in the distance.
For dinner, head to a local brasserie or bistro. Prix fixe menus usually cost around $20–$25 and include French classics like beef bourguignon.
Things to Do:
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Walk the Champs-Élysées for window shopping and people-watching.
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Climb the Arc de Triomphe or admire it from below.
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Watch the Eiffel Tower light show after dark.
Budget Tip: Skip cocktails and opt for house wine — often cheaper and just as good!
Day 2 – Local Charm & Cultural Sights
Morning – Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Head to Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. Wander its cobblestone streets, spot artists in Place du Tertre, and enjoy the street life. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is free to enter and offers one of the best panoramic views in Paris without spending a cent.
Things to Do:
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Check out the Wall of Love (Le Mur des Je t’aime) — a romantic hidden gem.
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Visit the old Moulin Rouge building (photo stop only, unless you book a show).
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Enjoy a stroll through Montmartre Vineyard (Clos Montmartre), one of the last vineyards in Paris.
Budget Tip: Instead of an expensive café breakfast here, grab a pastry from a boulangerie (about $3) and enjoy it on the church steps with a view.
Afternoon – Musée d’Orsay or Latin Quarter
For art lovers, the Musée d’Orsay (around $17) is a fantastic choice with its Impressionist masterpieces. If museums aren’t your thing, head to the Latin Quarter — buzzing with affordable eateries, student energy, and charming bookshops.
Lunch here can be as cheap as $10–$12 at a local crêperie.
Things to Do:
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Visit the Panthéon Paris (historic landmark).
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Stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, one of the best free attractions in Paris.
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Try local street food or falafel in Rue Mouffetard, a foodie hotspot.
Budget Tip: The Latin Quarter is one of the best budget places to stay in Paris if you want lively streets and affordable food.
Evening – Sunset at the Seine & Eiffel Tower Light Show
Wrap up your 2 days in Paris itinerary with something unforgettable: watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. It lights up every hour after sunset, and the best part? It’s completely free to enjoy.
If you’re hungry, grab takeaway falafel or kebabs in the Marais district (under $10) and enjoy a riverside dinner picnic.
Things to Do:
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Walk across the Pont Neuf Bridge, the oldest bridge in Paris.
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Watch local musicians performing along the Seine.
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Capture night photos of the Louvre Pyramid beautifully lit up.
Budget Tip: Instead of an expensive Seine dinner cruise, sit along the riverbanks with locals and enjoy your own budget meal with the same magical view.
Where to Stay: Budget Hotels in Paris
Accommodation will likely be your biggest cost, but there are plenty of options for budget boutique hotels in Paris. Here are a few popular picks:
- Generator Paris – A trendy hostel/hotel hybrid with private rooms.
- Ibis Budget Paris – Simple but comfortable, with great metro connections.
- Hotel du Commerce (Latin Quarter) – Budget-friendly and central.
Budget Tip: Book early, especially for summer, and look for rooms slightly outside the center (near metro lines). A cheap hotel room in Paris can easily save you $50–$80 compared to staying right next to the Eiffel Tower.
Getting Around on a Budget
Paris is very walkable, but for longer distances, use the metro. A 10-ticket carnet costs about $18 and will easily cover your 2 days. You can also rent bikes for a few euros if you’d like a scenic ride along the Seine.
Budget Tip: Skip taxis and Ubers — they add up quickly. Stick to metro + walking to keep your budget intact.
Final Budget Recap
Here’s how you can comfortably spend 2 days in Paris under $500:
- Accommodation (2 nights): $180
- Food: $90
- Transport: $25
- Attractions: $135
- Miscellaneous: $20
Total: $450 (approx.)
Yes — you really can do Paris in 2 days for under $500 without missing its magic!
FAQs About a 2-Day Paris Budget Trip
Q1: Can you really see Paris in 2 days on a budget?
Yes. If you focus on highlights and balance paid attractions with free experiences, 2 days is enough to see the essentials.
Q2: How much money do I need for 2 days in Paris?
Around $400–$500 per person, including accommodation, food, transport, and tickets.
Q3: What are the best budget areas to stay in Paris?
The Latin Quarter, Montmartre, and Bastille all have affordable boutique hotels and hostels.
Q4: Are museums free in Paris?
Yes, many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month, and some are free for students under 26.
Q5: Is food expensive in Paris?
It can be, but you’ll find affordable options like crêpes, bakery meals, street food, and prix fixe menus.
Conclusion
Paris doesn’t have to cost thousands. With this budget-friendly Paris itinerary, you can enjoy 2 unforgettable days in the City of Light for under $500 — including food, stays, and world-class attractions. Whether it’s watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle, strolling Montmartre, or cruising the Seine, you’ll experience the best of Paris without breaking the bank.
So pack your bags, grab your metro ticket, and get ready to fall in love with Paris — affordably.