Is Paris really that expensive?

It can be, but doesn't have to be. The tourist areas (1st-4th arrondissements) are pricey. Stay in outer arrondissements, eat at local spots, and you'll spend similar to other major European cities.

How much should I budget for the Eiffel Tower?

Viewing from ground level is free. Elevator to top costs £25.90, second floor £16.60. Skip the crowds and expense — best views are from Trocadéro across the river (totally free).

Can I really drink wine in public?

Yes, it's legal in parks and most public spaces. Just not on public transport or directly in front of schools/government buildings. Parisians do it all the time.

How to Travel Paris on a Budget

Paris on a budget is totally doable with smart planning. Expect to spend £40-60 per day by staying in hostels, using public transport, eating at boulangeries, and hitting up free museums and parks.

Book a hostel bed or budget hotel. Hostels cost £15-25/night. Look in the 11th, 12th, or 20th arrondissements for cheaper options that are still well-connected by metro. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for better rates.
Get a weekly metro pass. Buy a Navigo Easy card and load it with a weekly pass (£22.80). Way cheaper than individual tickets at £1.90 each. Covers all zones within Paris.
Eat like a local, not a tourist. Skip restaurant lunches. Hit boulangeries for fresh sandwiches (£3-5) and pastries (£1-2). Shop at Monoprix for groceries. Splurge on one proper dinner every few days.
Hit the free museums on first Sundays. Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and others are free the first Sunday of each month (some restrictions apply). Otherwise, many smaller museums are always free.
Walk everywhere you can. Central Paris is compact. Walk along the Seine, through Marais, up to Sacré-Cœur. Save metro rides for longer distances or when you're knackered.
Drink wine from the shop, not bars. Buy wine from any corner shop (£3-8/bottle) and drink it in parks or by the Seine. It's legal and locals do it. Bars charge £8+ for a glass.

Is Paris really that expensive?: It can be, but doesn't have to be. The tourist areas (1st-4th arrondissements) are pricey. Stay in outer arrondissements, eat at local spots, and you'll spend similar to other major European cities.
How much should I budget for the Eiffel Tower?: Viewing from ground level is free. Elevator to top costs £25.90, second floor £16.60. Skip the crowds and expense — best views are from Trocadéro across the river (totally free).
Can I really drink wine in public?: Yes, it's legal in parks and most public spaces. Just not on public transport or directly in front of schools/government buildings. Parisians do it all the time.