One of the good things about living in London (despite what the Greeks living here will have you believe) is that the continent is on your doorstep. You can jump on a low-cost flight or train (if you care about your carbon footprint) and in two hours be in a different country, which feels like a world apart from the big smoke.
During these recession-hit times, it is still possible to find things to do for free even in a city as expensive as Paris.
You can walk outside the Louvre and if it’s a nice day take in the atmosphere and engage in people-watching by sitting in the renowned courtyard by the pyramid or take a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries. You will probably have already seen the most famous exhibits of the Louvre (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo etc.) in a number of reproductions anyway, so better avoid the queues and go walking instead. You can walk by the river to the Notre Dame, where a visit inside is essential if only to admire the stained glasses and the gargoyles on the façade.
Walk across the bridge and you will find yourself in front of probably the most famous English-language bookshop in Paris, Shakespeare and Company (37 Rue de la Bûcherie) http://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/ (another film reference). It is open all-year round and holds occasional writer events. Don’t omit to visit the first floor where you will find even more books, a piano and a reading area (and if you are a writer even a place to stay).
For spectacular views of Paris walk up the hill to Montmartre and visit the famous Sacre Coeur Basilica (another movie reference). Don’t forget to feed the pigeons or take a spin on the merry-go-round.
If you are looking for a small quirky joint with a decent wine list and affordable cheese and charcuterie platters, look no further than the L’Art Brut Bistrot (78, rue Quincampoix – another movie reference). http://www.artbrutbistrot.fr
And of course no trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to Centre Georges Pompidou, the Tate Modern of the French capital. Like its London equivalent, Pompidou hosts modern exhibitions and it’s definitely worth a visit if only for the architecture of the building (by Renzo Piano) and the restaurant on the top floor. You will need a ticket for the exhibitions though, so better check before you visit.
P.S. Whoever gets the film references wins my respect.
