#1. By Yourself, In A Cozy Studio
If you use Airbnb, you can find a collection of studio apartments in Paris that aren't too expensive - it ranges between a hostel room and a hotel room, so within the ballpark of $60-$80 is realistic. There are a few that catch the eye in various neighborhoods, such as a charming studio in Marais, or this modern flat in Champs-Élysées.
Personally, I loved this studio apartment in Saint Germain. It was affordable, simple, and close to everything. It kind of freaked me out that it was on the first floor, but the window was covered with heavy metal shutters, so that anxiety quickly dissipated.
Despite a little outside noise, I slept like a baby. True to a studio, your kitchen may be in your bedroom, but honestly, if you're wandering around Paris, you might not care about eating in.
#2. In A Bunk Bed, At Saint Christopher's Hostel
This Parisian hostel chain is trustworthy, with safe, affordable rooms. I made a friend or two while crashing there. Saint Christopher's is perfect if you want a lot of social activity, with an awesome bar and restaurant to hang out at. There are locations all over the city.
I tend to do a lot of work at hostels when I travel, so having those communal spaces is always a plus for me. Clean, cheap, conveniently located. All in all, checks off the boxes for me.
#3. As A Guest, With A Local
When I go to Paris, I occasionally stay with my former foreign exchange student, Marion. But since that specific option isn't for everyone, you may have to do a little research and planning to stay with a local. However, it's definitely worth the effort.
Marion has always told me about the best parts of the city, and has even turned me on to fondue, specific French wines, etc. You will get a real idea about how the French live from day-to-day. You can use Homestay.com to find cheap rooms with local families, or get a private room on Airbnb.
For example, this homestay is only $53 a night and it's very close to the Eiffel Tower.
#4. On A Local's Couch
This option isn't for everyone, but if you're willing to be a little brave, it could be a great way to stay in Paris for free. The site Workaway offers free room and board (and sometimes, even food) in exchange for volunteer work.
There are a ton of ways you can give your time and talents in Paris, such as being a nanny, teaching English, assisting Airbnb hosts, etc. If you don't want to work on your trip, check out Couchsurfing.com. You can usually find people that won't mind if you sleep on their sofa as long as you clean up after yourself.
#5. In A Fancy Pants Hotel
This is a huge contrast to the previous suggestion, but if you're in Paris and you really want to get a bougie experience, try The Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel. It's one of Marriott's Autograph collection hotels (drool), which means it's extremely nice and the staff goes above and beyond to serve you.
For $200+ a night, it's a little steep, but may be worth the extra cash if you truly want a five star experience.
#6. Near The Eiffel Tower
If you really want the Parisian, Carrie Bradshaw experience, look for an apartment near the Eiffel Tower. You have to dig through some listings and be flexible with your dates, but there are a surprising amount of Airbnbs near the Eiffel Tower between $80-$115 a night.
My favorites include this flat 100 meters from the tower (it has a fireplace!) for $108 a night, and this brightly colored studio for only $96 a night.
#7. In An Authentic Parisian Neighborhood
If you want an authentic Parisian experience, you may want to get away from the inner city and wander out to one of the boroughs. There's the Latin Quarter, (near the 5th and the 6th arrondissements) where you won't escape the tourism entirely but be closer to cool staples like Shakespeare and Co. You can get a studio for around $70 a night here.
You can also go further out to neighborhoods like Bastille, République and Père Lachaise and find some atypical selections. If you really want to go full Paris, check out Montmarte apartments. You might get something bigger or more unique for around the same price of a studio closer to the touristy stuff.
I like this neato place that's really well decorated.
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