How to travel to Paris under $2k

When I first started planning my low-cost trip to Paris, I was overwhelmed! Everyone says Paris is expensive, but I was determined to make it work for under $2k. Here are some extra tips I picked up along the way that really helped me stretch my budget and still have an incredible experience. For flights, don't just look for budget airlines – become a deal hunter! I signed up for flight alerts on Google Flights and Skyscanner, and I found that Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper to fly. Also, consider flying into smaller airports like Beauvais (BVA) if you don't mind a bit of a bus ride into the city, as tickets can be significantly less. Flexibility with your travel dates, even by a few days, can save you hundreds! When it came to accommodation, I explored beyond just Airbnbs. Hostels in Paris aren't just for young backpackers anymore; many offer private rooms that are much more affordable than hotels, often with shared kitchen facilities which is a huge plus for saving on food costs. I personally stayed in a private room in a hostel in the 10th arrondissement, which was well-connected by metro but away from the most touristy (and expensive) areas. It allowed me to experience a more local side of Paris. Getting around was surprisingly easy and cheap with the metro. Instead of buying single tickets, look into a Navigo Découverte pass if you're staying for a full week (Monday-Sunday). It's a lifesaver for unlimited rides and can save you a ton compared to buying individual 'carnets' of 10 tickets. Just remember to bring a passport-sized photo for it! And truly, Paris is made for walking; I clocked so many steps, so definitely bring good walking shoes – your feet will thank you! For food, this was probably my favorite way to save. Forget fancy restaurants for every meal! My go-to was grabbing a freshly baked baguette and some cheese from a local boulangerie or supermarket for lunch. The markets, like Marché des Enfants Rouges, offer amazing, affordable street food options where you can sample local flavors without the restaurant markup. Picnics along the Seine or in Luxembourg Gardens were not only budget-friendly but also incredibly romantic and memorable. I also made sure to pack some snacks from home to avoid impulse purchases when I was out exploring. Sightseeing doesn't have to cost a fortune either. Beyond the obvious free attractions like parks and churches, many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month, or late-night discounts. I also found that just wandering through different neighborhoods – Le Marais, Montmartre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés – was an attraction in itself, offering endless beauty and charm without a ticket price. Look for free walking tours (tip-based) to get an orientation and learn some history without breaking the bank. Finally, effective budgeting was key. Before I left, I created a spreadsheet for daily expenses and stuck to it. I used a budgeting app on my phone to track every euro I spent. This helped me see where my money was really going and adjust if I was overspending in one area. Remember, every little saving adds up, and with these tips, your low-cost travel to Paris can be just as magical as an extravagant one!