Paris

Paris is a city that’s bursting with charm, history, and, of course, delicious food. With your focus on cheap eats, I’ve crafted a delightful 2-day itinerary that balances sightseeing with some scrumptious budget-friendly meals. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Classic Paris

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Boulangerie: Start your day with a classic French breakfast. Head to a local boulangerie (bakery) like Du Pain et des Idées. Grab a buttery croissant or a pain au chocolat, and maybe a café au lait to wash it down. It’s a perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring!

• Visit the Louvre: After breakfast, stroll over to the Louvre Museum. Even if you don’t go inside, the glass pyramid and the surrounding gardens are stunning. If you do decide to enter, consider getting a timed ticket online to save time.

Lunch:

• Picnic at the Tuileries Garden: Grab a sandwich from a nearby café or a street vendor. A classic jambon-beurre (ham and butter sandwich) is both delicious and affordable. Find a nice spot in the Tuileries Garden to enjoy your lunch while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Afternoon:

• Explore Montmartre: After lunch, head to the charming neighborhood of Montmartre. Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica (it’s free!), and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Snack:

• Crepes on the Go: As you explore, keep an eye out for a crepe stand. A simple nutella or sugar crepe is a delightful treat and won’t break the bank!

Evening:

• Dinner in Montmartre: For dinner, check out Le Refuge des Fondus. It’s a quirky fondue restaurant where you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending too much. The atmosphere is lively, and you’ll love the experience!

• Night Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely walk around Montmartre. The streets are beautifully lit at night, and you might stumble upon some street performers or artists.

Day 2: Culture and Cuisine

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Café: Start your day at a local café like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots. While these spots can be a bit pricier, you can enjoy a simple breakfast of a tartine (bread with butter and jam) and coffee without breaking the bank.

• Visit Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité: After breakfast, head to Île de la Cité to see the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. While the interior may be closed for renovations, the exterior is still breathtaking. Take a stroll around the island and enjoy the Seine views.

Lunch:

• Street Food at Rue Cler: Make your way to Rue Cler, a charming market street. You can find affordable options like a fresh baguette sandwich or a savory quiche. Grab some cheese or pastries from a local shop for a little picnic!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Latin Quarter: After lunch, wander through the Latin Quarter. Visit the Panthéon and the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. The area is filled with history and vibrant street life.

Snack:

• Gelato or Pastries: Treat yourself to a scoop of gelato or a pastry from a local patisserie. Pierre Hermé or Ladurée are famous for their macarons, but you can find delicious options everywhere!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Bistro: For your final dinner, head to Chez Janou or Le Petit Pontoise for some traditional French cuisine at reasonable prices. Look for the “plat du jour” (dish of the day) for a good deal!

• Seine River Walk: After dinner, take a stroll along the Seine. The city lights reflecting on the water are simply magical, and it’s a perfect way to end your Parisian adventure.

Tips for Cheap Eats:

• Look for “formule” menus (set menus) at restaurants for a good deal.
• Don’t shy away from street food; it’s often delicious and budget-friendly.
• Keep an eye out for local markets where you can grab fresh produce and snacks.

There you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary filled with sights, sounds, and scrumptious bites in Paris. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨🥖