Inflation is a hottopic in France. The overall rise in prices in the country is leading to a drop in purchasing power and prompting us to tighten our belts. So, here we are, counting our pennies. If your outings budget is in danger of taking a hit, don't worry: the capital and the surrounding region are full of great ways to enjoy hotactivities without spending too much. Yes, you can treat yourself and save money at the same time, even in Paris!
We can already see you widening your eyes. After all, it's common knowledge that life is expensive in the capital. But there are plenty of free and affordable places to go out in the Paris region... you just have to know where to look. And that's just as well, because finding good deals is our specialty!
That's why we've come up with a list of all the free and inexpensive things to do in Paris and the Paris region at the moment. And guess what? This guide is updated as we make announcements and discoveries, so you'll be able to consult it at any time to find the affordable outings that await you. You'll never run out of ideas again!
This week's top deals in Paris and Île-de-France, from December 22 to 28, 2025
A new week begins, bringing with it a whole range of activities and discoveries in Paris and the Île-de-France region! Keep reading to find the best budget-friendly deals and events happening from December 22 to 28, 2025. [Read more]
Weekend deals in Paris and Île-de-France: December 19-21, 2025
Are you looking for great deals for this weekend in Paris, December 19-21, 2025? Stay tuned—we've put together a curated list of free and budget-friendly outings so you can enjoy the City of Light and its surroundings to the fullest, all without breaking the bank. [Read more]
What to do with children: free family outings in Paris
Looking for free family outings in Paris? We'll show you the spots, events and activities to discover in the capital, so you can enjoy Paris without spending a fortune! [Read more]



"Rêveries de pierres" at the École des Arts Joailliers: an exhibition of a precious collection of stones
Sponsored - Are you in search of a truly original, poetic, and deeply mesmerizing exhibition? From November 6, 2025, to March 29, 2026, the École des Arts Joailliers, in partnership with the Muséum national d’histoire naturelle, invites you to explore "Dreams of Stones: Poetry and Minerals of Roger Caillois," right in the heart of Paris’s 9th arrondissement. This event offers a rare opportunity to marvel at 200 extraordinary minerals, accompanied by never-before-seen texts from one of the most distinctive thinkers of the 20th century. Additionally, entry is free with prior reservation (link below). [Read more]



ZEUS, the metallic Olympic horse, on display for free at the Musée des Arts et Métiers
Zeus, the mechanical horse that stole hearts at the Olympic Games, has taken a seat on the forecourt of the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris. This towering steel sculpture is open to the public and free to visit from December 17, 2025, to January 10, 2026. [Read more]



Léa's Odyssey: an underwater exhibition at the Pavillon Vendôme in Clichy (92)
From October 15, 2025, Junior artist Fritz Jacquet's exhibition is back, but this time in Clichy, to plunge into the heart of an ocean of paper while discovering this ecosystem from an artistic point of view. [Read more]



Mini Me: Our snapshots from the JonOne "100% Groovy Baby" exhibition at the Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery
The Goldshteyn-Saatort Gallery hosts Mini Me, the vibrant solo exhibition by JonOne, offering a psychedelic journey where graffiti, small-scale works, and seventies groovery collide in a striking visual explosion. The exhibition runs from December 11, 2025, to January 11, 2026 — a must-visit chance to dive into the colorful universe of the artist. [Read more]



Colors of Korea: free contemporary art exhibition at the Korean Cultural Center in Paris, photos
The Korean Cultural Center unveils the exhibition "Couleurs de Corée, Lumière sur l'art contemporain coréen", on the occasion of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Korea, from October 24, 2025 to August 29, 2026. This free exhibition presents a unique immersion in Korean art, illustrating the work of 34 artists who blend tradition and innovation through the power of color. [Read more]



LV Dream by Louis Vuitton: free exhibition, boutique, café and chocolate shop
The famous Maison Louis Vuitton opens LV DREAM, a free exhibition and gift store that also features a café and a chocolate shop in collaboration with Chef Pâtissier Maxime Frédéric of Cheval Blanc Paris. While the exhibition is by reservation only, the boutique and café are open to the public. [Read more]



What's Weaving - Stories woven between India and France: a unique exhibition on textile art
Sponsored - From December 4, 2025, to January 4, 2026, the Institut français, the French Embassy in India, and the Manufactures Nationales are organizing an exceptional event to showcase textile creation, at the crossroads of contemporary art and craftsmanship. This event combines an exhibition and a festival, celebrating the textile expertise of India and France. Between artistic craftsmanship and contemporary creation, "Ce qui se trame - Histoires tissées entre l'Inde et la France" (What is being woven - Stories woven between India and France) brings together works, heritage objects, and cross-cultural residencies, revealing a cultural and artistic bridge between two rich and complementary textile traditions. [Read more]



Thierry Lefort's California - 20 years of painting: Free retrospective exhibition
Sponsored - How about taking a trip to California without leaving Paris? From December 23, 2025, to January 7, 2026, the Beffroi de Montrouge is hosting "La Californie de Thierry Lefort," a museum-scale exhibition curated by Yoyo Maeght.
This exceptional retrospective traces twenty years of painting between Paris and Los Angeles. An artistic journey not to be missed. Admission is free upon reservation, with a gift for each visitor (links below). [Read more]



Exceptional and free Arman exhibition at the 17th arrondissement town hall in Paris
The 17th arrondissement town hall is celebrating Arman, a leading figure of the New Realists, with a free exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Bronze sculptures, rare paintings, and a new creation of a French flag pay tribute to this visionary artist, 20 years after his death. [Read more]



Maison Élysée: the free Élysée museum/café, opposite the presidential palace in Paris
The Élysée Palace has finally opened the doors to its very own museum! Come and enjoy an exclusive presidential experience at the Maison de l'Élysée, located just opposite the palace. On the program? A free, royal immersion in the 600 m2 museum, café and boutique. [Read more]



What time owes them: the Advent calendar exhibition, which unveils a new work every day.
A gallery on Rue Audran in Montmartre is hosting "Ce que le temps leur doit" (What Time Owes Them), a collective exhibition where 24 emerging female artists unveil one work each day in an artistic and socially conscious Advent calendar, from December 1, 2025, to January 6, 2026. [Read more]



59 Rivoli, the free artists' squat on rue de Rivoli in Paris
As you walk up the Rue de Rivoli, one building stands out for its colorful decorations, which stand out among the ashlar buildings. Welcome to 59 Rivoli, an artistic squat with free exhibitions. [Read more]



Chiorama Exhibition: An immersive experience at the Renault® parade on the Champs-Elysées
Sponsored - From November 8, 2025, to April 5, 2026, the Renault® showcase transforms into an immersive, emotional experience centered around the iconic Renault Clio. Featuring a display of legendary models, artistic programming, and fun interactive activities, Cliorama offers a lively celebration of love, culture, and design. This is a must-visit event for car enthusiasts, photography buffs, and culture lovers alike. [Read more]



Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine in Paris, opening hours, tickets and exhibitions
The Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine, located in the Palais Chaillot on Place du Trocadéro, is an exceptional, monumental 22,000 m2 museum housing numerous models, city plans and immense scupltures. Here, you can take an in-depth look at some of the world's most beautiful buildings, and immerse yourself in the world of technology, architecture and urban planning. [Read more]



La Monnaie de Paris: an unusual cultural and historical institution in Paris
Do you know how coins are made in France? Come and find out by visiting the Monnaie de Paris, the institution that teaches us more about the history of silver and the minting of medals, in a place steeped in history. [Read more]



What's in the works: the textile and fashion exhibition between India and France at the Mobilier National
The Mobilier National will be showcasing the textile creations of India and France, which have been intertwined for centuries, in an exhibition that doubles as a festival, from December 4, 2025 to January 4, 2026. [Read more]



The Star Academy's Christmas Lounge: a free, immersive pop-up featuring karaoke and watch parties
Enjoy an exclusive glimpse into the lives of Star Academy students with a festive pop-up event from December 18 to 21, 2025. The weekend will feature a cozy pajama party, meet-and-greets with teachers and alumni, and a host of free entertainment and activities. [Read more]



Versailles celebrates its organs with a series of free concerts.
The Versailles au son des orgues festival takes over the city's churches and heritage sites with a program of free concerts, performed by young talents on historic organs, from November 30 to December 21, 2025. [Read more]



Cirque Phénix celebrates 25 years of creations with the Millesime show
Cirque Phénix celebrates its 25th anniversary with Millésime, a show featuring 40 artists from all over the world. Join us on the Pelouse de Reuilly in the 12th arrondissement from November 22, 2025 to discover this anniversary creation. [Read more]



Disney Village: concerts, entertainment... The complete program for December 2025
Disney Village at Disneyland Paris comes alive every Friday and Saturday evening with free live concerts and entertainment. From musical performances to festive gatherings and outdoor events, discover the full program of entertainment planned for December 2025. [Read more]



Jazz Café Montparnasse: the new landmark for jazz lovers!
Opened a few months ago, Jazz Café Montparnasse illuminates the rue du Commandant Mouchotte with its vermilion neon lights. Inside, jazz and good food await you.... [Read more]



Unusual: Out of the blue, the cinema bar that mixes natural wines and arthouse short films in Paris
In the heart of Paris's 11th arrondissement, Out of the Blue combines a wine bar and cinema for the curious and cinephiles alike. With arthouse short films, natural wines, and a cozy lounge atmosphere, here you can sip, nibble, and immerse yourself in an experience that is unusual, creative, and convivial all at once. [Read more]



Tip: the Guimet Museum cinema is free for all
The Musée Guimet regularly organizes screenings and film cycles on Asian art in its auditorium. All screenings are free of charge. [Read more]



Royaumont Abbey now hosts shows all year round!
The Abbaye de Royaumont in Asnières-sur-Oise now offers shows and concerts every Sunday afternoon. The Festival de Royaumont has evolved into the Saison Royaumont, a truly multidisciplinary cultural experience in the heart of this historic site in the Val-d'Oise. [Read more]



The Sebastopol Comedy Club: stand-up comedy in a Paris hotel
The Sebastopol Comedy Club is the unusual comedy stage that awaits you in the heart of the 123 Sebastopol hotel in Paris. Every weekend, in the heart of a hotel, you'll find a stand-up stage hosted by established artists. [Read more]



Random Comedy Club: stand-up comedy show Sunday evenings at the Chouchou hotel in Paris
Every Sunday evening, the Chouchou hotel invites you to its table for its traditional rendez-vous: the Random Comedy Club comedy show. In the guinguette, among the aperitif boards and cocktails, the new seeds of comedy and stars of laughter take turns on stage for a lively stand-up show, 100% made in France! [Read more]



Tip: Comédie-Française offers free Monday tickets to under-28s
Every Monday evening in Paris, the Comédie-Française offers a unique opportunity to young people under the age of 28: 95 free tickets are distributed for its performances in the prestigious Salle Richelieu. Tickets can be collected from the Petit Bureau, one hour before the start of the play. [Read more]



Lyoom Comedy Souk: a comedy club in the 11th arrondissement
Sponsored - The new comedy club has arrived in the capital, and it promises to shake up your Wednesday nights! Meet us at Lyoom Comedy Souk, every Wednesday at 7.30pm, in an intimate and lively atmosphere. [Read more]



Santa Claus has arrived at his destination in Paris: heading straight to Westfield Forum des Halles
Sponsored - Under the Canopy, the enchantment begins: a stunning décor and daily surprises set the tone all December long. Westfield Forum des Halles transforms into a festive wonderland with a towering Christmas tree, engaging activities spread throughout the mall, chances to win gifts, and an ambiance that keeps the entire center buzzing. It's a must-visit spot to experience the true spirit of Christmas right in the heart of Paris. [Read more]



Paris’s Aquaboulevard unveils a magical Christmas experience at affordable prices
Sponsored - As the holiday season approaches, Paris’s Aquaboulevard invites visitors of all ages to experience the magic of Christmas with an exclusive offer available throughout the winter break. During any visit from December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026, enjoy special rates of €12 for children and €25 for adults (reservation link included in the article). [Read more]



Olfactivity: create your own personalized perfume a stone's throw from the Champs-Elysées
Sponsored - Olfactivity invites you to create your own personalized perfume in a fun, sensory experience. Let us guide you through 9 niche fragrances from singular worlds.
Olfactivity: explore, assemble and reveal your uniqueness by creating your own signature fragrance. [Read more]



Pokémon store in Paris, discover the first permanent store dedicated to Pokémon in pictures
A new immersive Pokémon corner opens in Paris? We're off to discover the new 80 m² permanent space, dedicated to the world of the famous creatures, in the Le Coin des Barons store, located on rue de Rivoli in the 1st arrondissement. As of March 28, 2025, this unique corner awaits collectors and enthusiasts alike. [Read more]



This Christmas, Korea takes over the Marais: the must-visit pop-up shop
Sponsored - EPURER is a curated pop-up by SOIH, opening at Christmas to showcase an exclusive selection of contemporary Korean brands. Blending design, fashion, lifestyle, and gastronomy, it offers a refined shopping experience in the heart of the Marais. [Read more]



Huge Clearance Before Closure of a Thrift Store in Paris: Vintage Styles at 50% Off and Second-Hand Finds at Rock-Bottom Prices
Last Chance to Hunt for Treasure in the 14th Arrondissement of Paris: The Community Thrift Store Les Secondes Mains Sets Closing Date for December 27, 2025. Before they close their doors for good, they’re hosting a massive clearance sale with incredible discounts on vintage finds and secondhand fashion. The perfect opportunity to shop sustainably and save big! [Read more]



Dior Paris 30 Montaigne, boutique - museum, café and restaurant
The legendary Dior address at 30 Avenue Montaigne reopens its doors and reveals its new face. Renovated and redesigned, this new address should appeal to fashion addicts as well as gourmets in search of a gourmet café or refined restaurant. [Read more]



MINISO, the brand for plush toys and adorable lifestyle objects, opens a store on the Champs-Élysées
An avalanche of adorable plush toys and "kawaii" gadgets arrives on the Champs-Élysées with the opening of the MINISO flagship! The ultra-mimi lifestyle brand's biggest store invites fans of cuteness and inveterate collectors to (re)discover its irresistible products, through multiple universes and collaborations. Opening this Saturday, June 22, 2024! [Read more]



Luxury second-hand handbags, discover the unique Héritage boutique in Yvelines
Imagine, among the finest handbags and luxury leather goods at knock-down prices. That's what we've come up with at Héritage, a brand-new second-hand boutique that opened in October in Les Clayes-sous-Bois in the Yvelines department, in the heart of the One Nation shopping center. We take you on a tour of this address, which offers certified Hermès, Chanel, Dior and Balenciaga at 30% to 50% off. [Read more]



The Christmas ice rink at Parc André Citroën is back: Patins en folie 2025
Want to skate in the open air in Paris? Head to Parc André Citroën in the 15th arrondissement from November 22, 2025, to January 4, 2026, to enjoy a real 600 m² ice rink. Here's everything you need to know. [Read more]



Carousel, trampoline, playground... 3 things to do with children in the Tuileries Gardens
Planning a trip to the Tuileries Gardens? With the whole family, even young children, it's the ideal place for a stroll or, better still, some really fun activities. [Read more]



Manga Story and Tsume Store: the temple of used and new manga bookshops
In the heart of Boulevard Voltaire, you'll find a bookshop familiar to all manga fans. Manga Story, and its extension Tsume Store, are brimming with books, both new and second-hand, as well as figurines, plush toys and other products derived from your favorite anime. [Read more]



What to do in Barbizon, the famous village between art and nature?
How about a trip to Barbizon? This charming village, 50 km from Paris, immerses us in art and nature on the edge of the Fontainebleau forest. Discover our tips for the perfect day out or weekend break. [Read more]



Climbing District Saint-Lazare, a climbing gym and coworking space hidden in a chapel
How about a climb in an atypical location? Climbing District is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Saint-Lazare train station. Housed in a hidden former chapel, this climbing gym, which looks like an old library, is sure to surprise. Tip: coworking spaces with free wifi and coffee shop. [Read more]



The Pontoise swimming pool, this Art Deco jewel in Paris has reopened: prices, activities and squash
The legendary Pontoise swimming pool, an Art Deco jewel listed as a Monument Historique, reopened its doors in early December 2023 after extensive renovation work. Located at 19, rue Pontoise in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, this historic swimming pool, designed by the same architect as Molitor and Pailleron, invites you to discover its unique architecture and new facilities. Fitness, weight training and squash await you. [Read more]



La Coulée Verte de Paris, the unusual and hidden walk from Bastille to Vincennes
Paris's Coulée Verte René-Dumont, formerly known as the Promenade Plantée, is a beautiful, little-known walk for Parisians, taking us on a verdant journey from the Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes over the Viaduc des Arts. It's an unusual and shady way to discover Paris, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. [Read more]



Happy Cash opens its doors fully in Épinay-sur-Seine: secondhand shopping arrives at L'Ilot shopping center
Sponsored - Great news for bargain hunters and eco-conscious shoppers: as of December 3rd, the festive spirit has arrived in Épinay-sur-Seine with the grand opening of the brand-new Happy Cash store at L’Ilot Shopping Center. Just in time for the holiday season, this second-hand retailer is quickly becoming the must-visit spot for finding gifts that are thoughtful, affordable, and environmentally friendly. [Read more]



Book Off, the best second-hand bookshop in Paris: photos and report
With its three stores dotted around Paris, the Japanese brand Book Off is well established in the capital. And with good reason: it's one of the best second-hand bookshops, with its vast selection and ultra-affordable prices. [Read more]