Tourists on a budget need not avoid Paris

While Paris evokes sky-high prices for many tourists, travel experts suggest that a trip to the French capital need not cost a small fortune. The key is to do a little advance planning and to live like the locals. The Associated Press recently offered up a number of tips on how one can spend a holiday or a short weekend break in Paris without necessarily emptying out the family savings account. For example, simply walking up to the top of the Eiffel Tower costs $19 per person-and this entry fee might make this a rather expensive (not to mention very tiring) climb for a family of four. As such, it may be a much wiser idea to simply avoid the climb altogether and enjoy a picnic instead on the grassy lawns around the Eiffel Tower, and to camp out there just before sunset, in order to marvel at an especially spectacular sight.

Those who have a keen interest in Parisian museums might also consider planning their trip to fall on the first Sunday of the month, when all such attractions are completely free of charge, including the most prominent institutions, such as the Louvre.

Music and theatre enthusiasts are especially well advised to book their opera seats in advance, mainly because it will then become possible to purchase tickets for as little as $11. This is ultimately the price of a movie ticket at most major North American cinemas. Preparing in advance and occupying seats that are further back and therefore seen as less desirable may be the best way to save hundreds of dollars on operas, musicals and concerts.

Thank you to Gaelle Faure of the Associated Press for the initial report and these useful tips.