The Top Four Free Attractions in Paris

Despite being known as the “City of Love” Paris, France, has much more to offer than just the perfect setting for a romantic vacation. It’s a global center for culture, art, fashion, and gastronomy.

Impressive wide boulevards and world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral draw many visitors into the city every week. While these stunning sights are not-to-be-missed, there are a wealth of free attractions available in Paris that will keep any traveler happy. Be sure to stay at a central Paris hotel, close to public transportation stops for ease of visiting these various attractions.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery might not usually be high on your list of vacation activities but Père Lachaise Cemetery is not your average cemetery. It is the largest burial ground in the city and one of the most visited worldwide. The Père Lachaise Cemetery is also the last resting place of big names such as Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. A keen photographer can spend hours here enjoying the varied gravestones, and a walk up the main hill for the view is a must for all visitors.

The site is very large, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the map before visiting. One tip is to use the online virtual tour to make sure you don’t miss a thing by planning a route around the cemetery before arriving. Alternatively, maps are available at the main gates, and guided tours can be arranged before arrival for a small fee.

Image via Flickr by Mild Mannered Photographer

Promenade Plantee

Opened in 1993, the Promenade Plantee or Coulée Verte René-Dumont as it is also known, is a tree-lined walkway on an old elevated railway line. The almost three mile trail is similar in style to “The High Line” park in New York City which opened six years later.

As well as views over the streets below, this walk also includes the Viaduc des Arts. The arches of the bridge have been turned into galleries as part of the development that transformed the old railway line. It is now home to over 50 artists of various styles and a perfect showcase of creativity and luxury.

Rue Denoyez

Paris is famous for some of the world’s most impressive street art, and nowhere is it more accessible than at the Rue Denoyez. This simple alleyway in the previously rundown area of Belleville has turned into a popular tourist attraction and transformed the area.

An almost-forgotten area of the city, it is now home to some of the most interesting cafes, shops, and art in Paris. Considered by many to be an open-air gallery, the variety of street art is what makes this area so interesting, from large murals to 3D pieces and smaller more intricate designs.

Image via Flickr by Nelson Minar

Champ de Mars Park

Running southeast from the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars Park is a hugely popular green space thanks to its well-kept gardens and fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower. It originally opened in 1780 as a parade ground for the Paris Military School, which sits at the opposite end of the park. This park is a perfect summer spot for tourists and local alike.