Paris Budget Guide 2026 – What You REALLY Spend Per Day in Paris

A complete and realistic breakdown of daily travel costs in Paris for 2026 — including hotels, food, transportation, attractions, and practical money-saving tips.

by Ayla
Planning a trip to Paris in 2026 can feel confusing — especially when trying to estimate how much you will actually spend each day. This updated Paris Budget Guide 2026 gives you a clear, realistic, and practical breakdown of every major cost: accommodation, food, transportation, attractions, and hidden fees that travelers often overlook. All numbers are based on official rates and real traveler spending. For confirmation, you can also check:

For more helpful Paris guides:


Quick Overview – Paris Budget Guide 2026

Here is the average daily spending for different types of travelers in Paris:

CategoryBudget TravelerMid-Range TravelerComfort Traveler
Accommodation€40–€80€120–€200€220–€350
Food€20–€35€40–€70€80–€120
Attractions€20–€40€40–€70€80–€100
Transportation€2.10–€6/ride€22.90/day pass€22.90/day pass
Total Estimate€80–€150/day€180–€300/day€320–€550/day

What Affects Your Paris Budget in 2026 – Key Factors in Your Budget Guide

1. Seasonal Pricing

  • April–May → High demand, prices rise
  • June–September → Peak summer season
  • December → Christmas holiday spike

Tip: Travel in March, early April, late September, or October for the best value.

2. Where You Stay

Accommodation prices vary widely depending on location. Staying near major landmarks can significantly increase the cost.

For a full breakdown: Where to Stay in Paris

3. Attractions You Choose

Popular attractions affect your budget:

4. Transportation Habits

If you walk most of the day, transportation costs remain low. Heavy metro usage increases daily expenses.

Full guide: Paris Transportation Guide


Accommodation Costs in Paris (2026) – A Key Part of Your Paris Budget Guide

Paris accommodation prices hostels hotels apartments budget midrange luxury

Accommodation is usually the biggest part of your Paris budget

📌 Average Hotel Prices

  • Hostels: €40–€80
  • Budget Hotels: €90–€130
  • Mid-Range Hotels: €150–€220
  • 4-Star Hotels: €220–€350
  • Premium Hotels: €300–€500+

Best Budget-Friendly Districts

  • Montmartre (18th)
  • Bastille (11th)
  • Nation (12th)

Recommended Mid-Range Areas

  • Saint-Germain (6th)
  • Latin Quarter (5th)
  • 7th Arrondissement

Apartment Rentals (Airbnb / Booking)

  • Studio: €100–€180
  • 1-Bedroom: €150–€250
  • 2-Bedroom: €220–€350+

Deal Finder: Check hotel deals in central Paris

How to Save on Accommodation

  • Book 6–10 weeks in advance
  • Stay slightly outside the center (Zone 2–3)
  • Choose hotels near metro stations
  • Avoid last-minute bookings
  • Use free cancellation to catch discounts

Transportation Costs in Paris (2026) – Essential Info for Your Paris Budget

Transportation costs in Paris vary depending on metro usage and airport transfers

🚇 Metro & Bus

  • Single ticket: €2.10
  • Carnet (10 rides): €19.10
  • Paris Visite Pass (Zones 1–3): €13.20–€42.40
  • CDG Airport (RER B): €11.45
  • OrlyBus: €4–€11.20

🚕 Taxi & Ride-Share

  • Short rides: €12–€18
  • Longer rides: €20–€35
  • Airport taxis: €55–€62

Food & Dining Costs in Paris (2026) – Important Part of Your Budget Guide

Paris food and meal prices 2026 bakeries breakfast lunch dinner cost guide

Paris offers food options for every budget, from bakeries to full restaurant menus

🥐 Breakfast

  • Bakeries: €4–€7
  • Cafés: €9–€14

🥪 Lunch

  • Sandwiches: €5–€8
  • Café meals: €12–€18
  • Restaurant menus: €20–€28

🍽 Dinner

  • Budget restaurants: €14–€20
  • Mid-range: €25–€40
  • Fine dining: €80–€200+

Tip: Lunch menus are much cheaper than dinner.


Attraction & Museum Costs – Paris 2026 Budget Breakdown

Paris attraction and museum ticket prices 2026 Louvre Eiffel Tower Seine Cruise Versailles

Museum and attraction prices in Paris depend on whether you choose standard or skip-the-line tickets

🎨 Museum Entries

🏰 Main Attractions


Hidden Costs That Affect Your Paris Budget Guide 2026

  • Hotel city tax: €2.60–€4.10 per person
  • Paid public toilets: €1
  • ATM fees: €3–€8
  • Service charge: 10–15% in some cafés
  • Bottled water: €4–€7
  • Souvenir markups near attractions

Tip: Ask for “une carafe d’eau” — free water in restaurants.


Smart Money-Saving Tips for Paris (2026) – Maximize Your Budget

1. Use Free Museum Days

First Sunday of each month → many museums are free.

2. Consider Attraction Passes

3. Get a Navigo Easy Card

The cheapest and most flexible option for metro users.

4. Choose Lunch Menus

5. Stay Outside the Tourist Center

Districts 10, 11, 12, 14, 15 offer more affordable hotels.

6. Book Major Tickets Early


Conclusion – Paris Budget Guide 2026

Paris can be expensive, but with the right planning, it becomes manageable — and even budget-friendly. Now you know the real, updated prices for hotels, food, transportation, and attractions in 2026. Use this guide to plan your daily budget and avoid unexpected costs.

To secure the best deals and avoid last-minute price increases, here are the most helpful links:


📘 FAQ – Paris Budget Guide 2026

How much do I need per day in Paris according to the Paris Budget Guide 2026?

Most travelers spend between €120 and €180 per day, depending on food, transport, and attractions.


Is Paris expensive in 2026? – Paris Budget Guide Insights

Paris can be expensive, but smart planning — booking early and choosing budget districts — significantly reduces costs.


How much is food per day in Paris (2026 Budget Guide)?

Expect to spend €20–€35 on a budget, €40–€70 mid-range, or more if dining in restaurants.


How can I save money in Paris? (Budget Guide Tips)

Use metro passes, book tickets early, eat lunch menus, and visit museums on free days.


When is the cheapest time to visit Paris according to the 2026 Budget Guide?

March, early April, late September, and October offer the best prices for hotels and flights.

You may also like