Where to stay in Paris on a budget – 5 TOP AREAS

Are you wondering where to stay in Paris on a budget without compromising on the grandeur and charm the City of Lights has to offer?

I’ve got you covered!

I still remember myself looking for the best place to stay in Paris on a budget when I got offered a year contract in Paris. Not easy, but doable, starting from the eclectic 11th arrondissement to the tranquil suburbs of Charenton-le-Pont.

Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family seeking affordable comfort, you can find in this guide 5 awesome areas to book your hotel and enjoy Paris’s magic without burning a hole in your pocket.

But let’s dive into the enchanting, affordable side of Paris!

Where to stay in Paris on a budget – A quick summary

Here below is a quick summary table of the 5 best areas to stay in Paris on a budget. You can easily compare the 5 neighbourhoods and make your decision based on what you are looking for.

The city is divided into 20 arrondissements. As a rule of thumb, the closer you are to the Paris centre (Arr. 1-4) the more expensive it gets.

For a cheaper stay, you better book your hotel outside the French capital. Charenton-le-Pont and Arcueil are two great communes, well connected by train/metro. There are plenty of cheap accommodations north of Paris too, however, these areas are a bit rougher and you should be more vigilant at night.

If you prefer to stay in the city, then Arrondissements 11, 18 and 19 are the most affordable neighbourhoods to stay.

You can click on the area name in the table for a full description of the neighbourhood including all the pros, cons, budget restaurants and affordable attractions in the area. Swipe left and right on a mobile to see the entire table.

Area	Ideal for	Pros	Cons	Budget	Metro Stops	Attractions	Restaurants	Families	Nightlife	Character
Arrondiss. 19 – Buttes-Chaumont (in Paris)	A quiet stay	Affordable, cultural diversity, artistic scene	Some parts can be a bit rough	Low	Stalingrad, Jaurès, and Place des Fêtes	Parc de la Villette, City of Science and Industry	Good, wide range of international cuisine	Excellent, park and science museum	Moderate, more a cultural scene	Diverse and colourful
Arrondiss. 18 – Montmartre (in Paris)	Ideal for couples, culture & art	Vibrant, artistic and multicultural	Can be noisy and crowded	Low to Mid-range	Barbès – Rochechouart, Château Rouge, and Abbesses	Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Place du Tertre	Excellent, famous for its French cafes and bakeries	Good	Excellent, very vibrant and lively	Iconic Parisian
Arrondiss. 11 – Bastille (in Paris)	Young and trendy crowd	Vibrant, plenty of bars and restaurants	Can be noisy, especially at night	Low to Mid-range	République, Bastille, and Parmentier	Place de la Bastille, Père Lachaise Cemetery	Excellent, trendy restaurants and bars	Moderate	Excellent, vibrant nightlife scene	Hip and trendy, historic buildings
Charenton-le-Pont (outside Paris)	Ideal for families, peaceful	Affordable, quiet	Fewer traditional Parisian attractions	Low+	Liberté	Bois de Vincennes, Parc Zoologique	Moderate	Excellent, plenty of parks and zoo	None	Tranquil suburban, natural scenery
Arcueil (outside Paris)	A very cheap stay	Affordable, student-friendly	Not much of a Paris feeling	Low++	RER B line stop: Arcueil – Cachan	Aqueduct of Arcueil, Parc de Sceaux	Modest	Good, peaceful atmosphere	None	Suburban

Arrondissement 19 – Buttes-Chaumont

A long time ago I was offered a one-year work contract in Paris. I love the centre of the city, however, I find it sometimes too energetic, and pricey too.

But tucked away from the typical hustle and bustle, I found the 19th Arrondissement offering a different pace of life. It’s also right next to Gare du Nord, so handy for day trips by train.

This neighbourhood is still inside the Paris ring, right on the top-right of the city. It might not have the Eiffel Tower or Louvre’s art, but it carries an unassuming charm and a local vibe.

Interestingly enough, the 19th Arrondissement doesn’t make it to most tourists’ must-see lists, nor does it have the fame of its neighbours.

The beauty of this district lies in its everyday, authentic Parisian life, where tourists are sparse, and locals roam the streets.

The centrepiece of this arrondissement is the enchanting Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. This park is not your regular neatly manicured French park; instead, it’s a rugged and wild space, designed to mimic nature.

Lush trees provide shade, various bird species fill the air with their songs, and the soothing sound of the waterfall cascading down a cliff completes the idyllic scene.

The park’s highlight is the ‘Temple de la Sibylle’. This is a small version of the ancient Roman Temple of Vesta, located in the middle of a lake.

Strolling around the park and the broader 19th Arrondissement, you can’t help but notice the array of architectural styles. From Haussmannian-style buildings to modern structures, the diversity is part of its charm.

One such modern marvel is the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, Europe’s largest science museum, offering a fun-filled day for kids and adults alike.

Not far from the park is the tranquil Canal de l’Ourcq, the perfect place to relax. The canal side is lined with hip bistros and cafes where you can enjoy a hearty meal without worrying about breaking the bank.

Le Pavillon du Lac, a restaurant set inside Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, serves French cuisine with a view.

For a laid-back afternoon, try a craft beer at Paname Brewing Company on the canal’s edge, one of my favourite places to hang out without breaking the bank.

In this district, music lovers will find an exciting scene with some of Paris’s most innovative music venues, such as the Philharmonie de Paris and the Trabendo.

Staying in the 19th Arrondissement feels like stepping into another era, where time slows down, letting you savour every moment.

Although it may not boast the grandeur of other Parisian districts, this area’s raw charm, affordable lodging options, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect destination for anyone seeking a unique Parisian adventure.

Interesting fact: Did you know that the Buttes-Chaumont Park was built on a former quarry site? Baron Haussmann commissioned engineer Jean-Charles Alphand and horticulturist Jean-Pierre Barillet-Deschamps to transform the site into a picturesque garden, which was opened during the 1867 Universal Exhibition in Paris.

Arrondissement 18 – Montmartre

The 18th arrondissement is a famous area with a vibrant past as the bohemian hub of the city. Picasso, Dali, and van Gogh are a few of the famous artists that lived and worked in the area. Today, the spirit of these artists is palpable in the charming, narrow, cobblestone streets of Montmartre.

Even if you do not decide to stay here, you should at least visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, located right on top of Montmartre Hill. From its steps, you can marvel at the stunning panoramic view of Paris below.

The Basilica is a truly magnificent sight with its unique Romano-Byzantine architectural style. Its white façade shines against the blue Parisian sky (on those lucky days that do not rain), captivating passers-by and encouraging a moment of tranquillity amid the city’s bustle.

Just a stone’s throw away from Sacré-Cœur is the famous Place du Tertre. This small square is lined with artists sketching portraits and selling their works, reminiscent of a time when the likes of Monet and Renoir roamed these streets.

If you have time and money for only one museum, you should make it to the Musée de Montmartre. You will be surprised by its exhibitions, a real open book on the history of the neighbourhood and its artists.

In terms of food, Montmartre doesn’t disappoint. Despite its touristy reputation, one can still find reasonably priced, quality meals in this area.

or an authentic French dining experience, try the poultry dishes at Le Coq Rico, or head over to Café des Deux Moulins, famous as the café where the film “Amélie” was shot.

Indeed, Montmartre’s unique charm lies in its blend of past and present, the high and the low, the iconic and the hidden. You can easily experience an authentic bohemian ambience with historic streets and coffee at famous artist cafes.

Montmartre is surely a little gem, but not a hidden gem. In saying that you can still experience here the local vibe of Paris that many other areas have lost. Staying here offers a chance not just to visit Paris, but to live it.

To wake up to the tolling of Sacré-Cœur’s bells, to buy fresh produce from Rue Lepic’s market, to watch local kids play football in the shadow of ancient buildings – this is what makes Montmartre special.

It is a haven for budget travellers who aren’t just looking for cheap accommodation but a memorable, authentic Parisian experience.

Interesting fact: The 18th arrondissement is home to the last two vineyards in Paris – Clos Montmartre and Clos des Morillons. Clos Montmartre even hosts a grape harvest festival each year!

Arrondissement 11 – Bastille

The 11th Arrondissement is a great area that offers vibrant and youthful energy without breaking the bank. It’s where you’ll find hip bars and trendy restaurants right next to historic spots that tell stories of the French Revolution. A great mix of old and new architecture, which somehow works so well together.

One of the highlights of this area is the Bastille Market. It’s not a secret gem of the city but definitely, this open-air market is a place which feels so Parisien.

Just walking through the bustling market, smelling the fresh bread, and looking at all the food from cheese to fruits is such a great local experience.

For history lovers, the July Column, which stands tall in the middle of the Place de la Bastille, is a sight to behold. This towering monument marks the spot where the Bastille prison once stood, a symbol of the French Revolution.

Right next to the column is the modern Opéra Bastille, a stark contrast to the history-laden monument. Here, you can catch an opera or a ballet performance if you’re up for a bit of culture.

If art is more your thing, check out the Atelier des Lumières. This digital art centre hosts immersive exhibitions that combine art and technology in a unique way.

Food in the Bastille ranges from traditional French to modern fusion. For an authentic French dining experience, Bofinger, the oldest brasserie in Paris, is a must-visit. If you want to try a mix of Italian and French food, head to East Mamma for its tasty pizzas and vibrant atmosphere.

Staying in Bastille means you’re in a buzzing area full of life. The streets are always alive with people, and the atmosphere is contagious.

For this reason, I believe the 11th Arrondissement is one of the best places to stay in Paris for the young crowd on a budget. You will be able to enjoy the night till the early morning, and then off for the city exploration during the day. A full Parisian immersion.

Interesting fact: The Bastille neighbourhood is well known for its trendy and modern vibe. However, interestingly enough, the 11th Arrondissement has also some of the oldest buildings in Paris, like the Saint-Ambroise Church.

Charenton-le-Pont – Outside Paris

Charenton-le-Pont is a charming suburb just outside the Paris ring and next to the 12th Arrondissement. It’s a tranquil area with a family-friendly atmosphere.

Sure, you will miss out on the typical Parisien architecture but despite being a bit further from the city, the area is well-connected with direct metro lines, allowing you to reach central Paris in around 20-30 minutes.

Nature lovers will be happy with the vicinity of Bois de Vincennes, the largest public park in the city. It’s a great place to have a leisurely stroll, go for a run, or even rent a boat and row on the picturesque Lac Daumesnil.

If you’re visiting with kids, they will love the Paris Zoological Park, also located within the park. Another attraction within Bois de Vincennes is the Parc Floral de Paris, especially beautiful in spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom.

When it comes to dining, Charenton-le-Pont offers a selection of charming cheap eateries. For a mix of French and Mediterranean cuisine, Le Lion d’Or is a great choice.

Mak Boucané, as the name suggests, provides a cosy and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy a cup of coffee or a light meal. If you’re in the mood for some kebab, Restaurant L’etoile won’t disappoint with its high quality and low prices.

Living in Charenton-le-Pont means you get to enjoy a quieter, more serene version of Paris without compromising on access to the city’s main attractions. It’s perfect for those on a budget who still want to have a genuine Parisian experience, away from the tourist crowds.

Arcueil – Outside Paris

Arcueil might not be in the heart of the city, but it certainly has its own charm and appeal. Although predominantly a residential area, the presence of several educational institutions gives it a youthful and vibrant atmosphere.

The direct metro connection ensures you can reach the Paris city centre within 10-15 minutes.

The ancient Aqueduct of Arcueil is the key landmark in the area but is not really close to the Arcueil Station.

However, take the metro and in 4 stops you will be at Parc de Sceaux, a beautiful park boasting formal gardens, woodlands, and a stunning château – a perfect place for a family picnic or a relaxed afternoon.

For food enthusiasts, Arcueil presents a humble selection of eateries. Rubeo Monte is a local favourite, offering good food and drink. Café de la Gare is an ideal spot for a morning coffee, while Grill Istanbul is a great place for a Turkish-inspired meal.

For dessert, head to Boulangerie Pâtisserie Lerebourg, renowned for its mouthwatering pastries and cakes.

Staying in Arcueil means you can enjoy a peaceful suburban lifestyle while still having easy access to the vibrancy of Paris. Its affordability makes it particularly appealing if your budget is very tight.

Interesting Fact: The aqueduct in Arcueil is one of the remaining vestiges of Roman engineering in the area, with the section in Arcueil being part of the “Aqueduc Médicis” built in the 17th century.

FAQ – Where to stay in Paris on a budget