Paris is a myriad of feelings and experiences; think beautiful architecture, haute couture, gastronomic delights, art, and romance. It’s the favored destination for many, often featuring on their bucket list. However, Paris is not easy on the pocket, and finding cheap hotels in central Paris is no easy feat. That’s not to say that you won’t find cheap hotels in Paris city centre or elsewhere. It’s only a matter of knowing where to look. With our list of the best cheap hotels in Paris, we’ve made your search a lot simpler.
While a visit to Paris will probably overshoot your budget, you’ll be quite surprised at the free activities on offer too. Some of the top things to do in Paris come with no price tag attached.
For LGBTQ travelers who’re heading to this romantic city, here are the top gay-friendly hotels in Paris.
Table of contents
- Hôtel des Arts Montmartre
- Hotel Ekta Champs Elysées
- Mama Shelter Paris East
- Hôtel Henriette
- Generator Paris
- YOOMA Urban Lodge
- MOB Hotel
- Hotel des Grandes Ecoles
- Hôtel du Temps
- Les Piaules – Belleville
- Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais
- Top Affordable Bars in Paris
- Top Affordable Restaurants in Paris
- Free Things To Do in Paris
Hôtel des Arts Montmartre
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On a small street that makes up the enchanting maze of roads in Montmarte, you’ll find the historic Hôtel des Arts. The family-owned hotel with its charming decor stands out among the cheap hotels in Paris. It’s easy to get to the legendary Place du Tertre and Place des Abbesses from here. The white-dome Basilica of Sacré Cœur and the renowned Moulin Rouge is also nearby. Down the hill, you’ll find the Grevin wax museum and the Art-Deco Grand Rex cinema, one of the most amazing cinemas around the world.
The rooms are characterized by their elegant designs and bright, warm colors. Soundproofed rooms range from single rooms to Deluxe rooms. The Deluxe rooms are the most spacious, with a balcony, private courtyard, or a view of the rooftops of Paris. Though not among the most romantic hotels in Paris, it’s a lovely place to spend with your special someone, especially if you book a room with a view. All rooms come with a few amenities barring a television set. Ensuite bathrooms have either a bathtub or a shower.
Given the size of the property, you won’t find any high-end amenities here, such as a gym or swimming pool. If you want a pool, then check out the best hotel pools in Paris. However, the hotel does have a 24/7 Reception and an option to book tickets for attractions, shows, or cruises. A breakfast buffet is served in the attractive basement that showcases the original stone walls of the hotel. It’s been welcoming guests for over 115 years.
Hotel Ekta Champs Elysées
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Hotel Ekta pays homage to the 1970s with its black and white graphic decor and bold designs. While the hotel is not exactly in the center, it’s a pretty good choice for someone looking for cheap hotels in central Paris. Located in the 8th arrondissement in the Champs Elysées district, the hotel is a few steps away from the fashionable Avenue des Champs Elysées and Arc de Triomphe. If shopping is on your schedule, the haute-couture fashion boutiques are a short walk from here.
The hotel makes a bold style statement with its 1970s look. It’s a welcome change from the other luxury heritage hotels in the area. The best part, it’s easy on the pocket too, so if you’re looking for cheap hotels in Paris, you know where to head. 25 guest rooms are spread over five floors, each with its own unique character that harks back to the 70s. You’ll find a good range of in-room amenities to make your stay a pleasant one. The largest room, Suite Terrasse, on the hotel’s top floor, has its own private terrace.
When you’re done exploring the city, the bright lounge with mustard seating is a good place to linger with a cocktail or two. It’s also where a continental breakfast is served for an extra fee. If you’re wondering which area to explore next, the hotel has a 24/7 multilingual concierge service.
Mama Shelter Paris East
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For those wanting to experience another side of Paris far from the madding crowds, Mama Shelter in the east of Paris is a good choice. The historic area in the Bagnolet district may seem a little removed from the touristy areas, but Père Lachaise Cemetery is just around the corner. Visitors from all over descend on the cemetery to pay homage to the late Oscar Wilde and other notable personalities whose final resting place.
Like all Mama Shelter hotels, this one also stands out for its quirky decor. The trademark black graffitied ceiling, fun facts in the lifts, interesting lamps in rooms, and quirky items for sale at the entrance all point to a fun vibe. Guest rooms reflect the same fun theme but with a little more style. Luxury bedding, free movies, photo booths, and smart TVs, plus a handy mini-fridge, can be found in all rooms.
When it comes to dining, you can choose the lounge bar and restaurant or the roof terrace. The roof terrace is an enticing space after the sun goes down with its secret garden vibe and lighting. However, if you like to feel the crowd’s pulse, the lounge bar is where dancing and DJs happen. While breakfast is not included in the rate, it’s an excellent spread.
Hôtel Henriette
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Hôtel Henriette offers a unique, intimate experience with a great location and outstanding interiors. Sitting on a quiet cobblestone street close to Mouffetard district, one of the oldest and liveliest districts in Paris, you’re in proximity to many interesting locations. For one, the historic Latin Quarter is a short walk away. Also within easy walking distance are the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin des Plantes. With the Gobelins Metro a stone’s throw from here, getting to other parts of the city is easy. Given its location and excellent vibe, this hotel should definitely be on your list of cheap hotels in central Paris.
The hotel’s decor provides some excellent spaces for a photo op. Whether it’s the cozy flowered vintage backyard or the unique guest rooms, you’ll want to capture these spaces with your camera. Bohemian chic permeates the guest rooms with matte walls, vintage mirrors, deco pieces, and little rugs. The overall aim is to make guests feel like a home away from home. All rooms come with a selected range of amenities such as a flat HD TV, WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. There’s even a small welcome gift.
You won’t find a gym or spa at the hotel, but a card in each room provides recommendations for dining, beauty treatments, and massages. Breakfast is not included in the rate, but a tasty buffet breakfast is served each morning for an extra charge. That being said, some of the offers do include a complimentary breakfast.
Generator Paris
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Whether it’s a dormitory-style room or a cheap hotel room you’re looking for, you’ll find them both at Generator Paris. Cheap hotels in Paris don’t come lighter on the pocket than this high-end hostel located in the 10th arrondissement. It’s no surprise that during peak season, it’s often booked out. While the hotel is not located in one of the prettiest spots in Paris, it’s just a few minutes from the popular Buttes-Chaumont Park and Canal Saint-Martin. An easy stroll will take you to the Gare du Nord train station.
It’s quite evident that a lot of thought has gone into the design of this hotel. Generator is definitely more than a regular hostel by combining a mix of cinematic design, rich colors, and several unique public spaces. Guests can choose to stay in a dormitory or private twin or double rooms. Some rooms come with their own private terrace.
Café Fabien on the ground floor has a canteen and conservatory overlooking the garden. It’s a good place to stop over for a barista-style coffee and nibbles. The jewel in this hotel’s crown is the Khayma Rooftop bar on the 9th floor. It’s an excellent space to catch a sunset over Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur as you sip on a cocktail. Suppose you like to party or meet people, head down to the Underground Club in the basement. This vibrant space is an excellent way to connect.
YOOMA Urban Lodge
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YOOMA Urban Lodge may not stand out among the best hotels in Paris with gorgeous views of the Eiffel Tower, but it’s close enough. Only five minutes away from one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, you won’t have to go too far to get that Instagram-worthy picture. The best part, you won’t have to dig too deep into your pocket to be this close to the Eiffel Tower. That’s one reason why YOOMA stands out as one of the best cheap hotels in central Paris.
Designed by Ora Ïto and Daniel Burren, the hotel’s public areas are a treat for the eyes. Guest rooms done up in shades of blue, green, red, or yellow complimented by white linen occupy two floors. You can choose a cozy room for two or larger rooms with a double bed and sleeping pods. All rooms come with a widescreen HD TV, reversible air conditioning, and a private bathroom. What catches the attention of the rooms is the attention to detail. You can store the luggage under the bed or pull out the foldaway desk if you need to work. Plus, each room comes with three power outlets and two USB ports for each person.
Checking in is easy via the YOOMA app or the regular reception. There’s also the YOOMA robot to help you check-in if you prefer. With a baby kitchen on every floor and a special washroom for babies, this is a great option for families with infants looking for cheap hotels in Paris. Other amenities at the hotel include an in-house restaurant – Restaurant Polichinelle, where you can enjoy a delicious yet affordable meal. There’s also the Bar YOOMA, a cooking school, and a sport & sauna room.
MOB Hotel
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If visiting one of the best flea markets in the world is on your cards, then base yourself at the MOB Hotel in the northern Parisian suburb of St-Ouen. It’s within a close walking distance of the Marche Aux Puces De Saint Ouen, touted as Europe’s largest flea market. While this may not be the ideal base if you’re looking for the cheapest hotels in Paris city centre, getting to central Paris is easy. The Garibaldi and Mairie de St Ouen metro stations are just about five minutes away.
There’s something thoroughly charming about this cleverly designed hotel housed in a low-lying, U-shaped building. Careful thought has gone into the hotel’s design to create a welcoming, affordable space. Clever use of space makes even entry-level rooms, makes them feel bigger than they are. Red velvet curtains at the head of the beds add some drama to the otherwise minimalist room. Again, the clever use of space is seen in the open plan. There are no televisions in the rooms, but guests can rent an iPad that comes with a good choice of films. Additionally, organic toiletries and a safe are provided in each room. Some rooms also come with their own private terrace.
An excellent place to dig into a yummy pizza or other Italian delights is Karlito’s organic Italian canteen. Orders are placed over the phone, and your name is called out when it’s ready. Other amenities at the hotel include two rooftop sun terraces, various classes such as yoga, salsa, and Tai Chi, plus an eight-a-side football table and a romantic courtyard garden.
Hotel des Grandes Ecoles
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In the heart of Paris’ Left Bank, you’ll find the family-owned Hotel des Grandes Ecoles, a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. Housed in an 18th-century building, the hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking for cheap hotels in Paris city centre. The prime location in the Latin Quarter puts you close to the Pantheon (a five-minute walk), Contrescarpe theatre, and Luxembourg Gardens.
You’ll feel like you’ve entered a French country guest house with its colorful wallpaper, parquet floors, and patterned rugs. The property has 51 cozy rooms with an old-world charm with curtains matching the wallpaper, distressed wood furniture, and bronze wall lights weathered over time. Apart from WiFi in the rooms, you won’t find any extras. That being said, the rooms feel homely and comfortable.
If you’re someone looking for extra bells and whistles in a hotel, this hotel will not suit you. It’s a comfortable space to catch a good rest, but that’s about it. While breakfast is not included in the rate, you can enjoy a continental breakfast for an extra fee.
Hôtel du Temps
3
If you stay at the Hôtel du Temps, you won’t enjoy any great views, but you will be conveniently placed to explore the city. The Gare du Nord and Poissonière Metro are within easy reach of the hotel, as is the vibrant Montmarte area. Though the hotel is off the busy Rue Lafayette, the street noise does not disturb because of the double-glazed windows. This may not be centrally located, but it’s a good place to consider even if you are looking for cheap hotels in central Paris.
The tasteful decor of the hotel has a relaxed vibe that appeals to all senses. Lower-level rooms are quite compact, but colorful curtains and interesting bedspreads compensate for the lack of space to enhance the overall look and feel. Rooms come with a small television and iPod dock, safe and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
There’s not much else on offer at the hotel, but it has a nice bar that’s open from six in the evening. A continental breakfast is also provided for an extra fee.
Les Piaules – Belleville
2
Located in the bustling arty district of the 11th arrondissement, Belleville, Les Piaules Belleville is another outstanding hostel that doubles up as a hotel. It’s an excellent place if you’re looking for an affordable hotel. However, the area is a bit far from the other cheap hotels in Paris city centre. Still, it’s an interesting area nonetheless, with many cool bars and cafes in the vicinity.
What makes this hostel one of the best cheap hotels in Paris is the style. Custom ‘Plumard’ bunk beds with built-in power outlets and reading lights elevate the shared dormitories. The private rooms are more spacious with a private bathroom, Bluetooth speakers, work desk, coffee machine, and super-fast WiFi. Finally, the rooftop room gives you private access to the rooftop.
The hostel spots a huge open-plan lounge bar open from seven in the morning until the early hours. It occupies the entire ground floor and is extremely popular with the local crowd too. It’s a good place to enjoy a drink or grab a bite to eat. Breakfast is also an affordable spread that consists of croissants, eggs, and bacon, among other items.
Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais
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Many cheap hotels in Paris city centre and other areas stand out for their tasteful decor, like the Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais. Located in one of the trendiest neighborhoods of Paris, the hotel ticks all the right boxes. It sits in a pretty lane that sees very little traffic, while the popular rue de Turenne is a stone’s throw from here. In the area, you’ll find the Picasso Museum and the Victor Hugo house museum. The world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral is also at an easy walking distance from here. If it’s other parts of the city you’re keen to explore, the nearest metro station is just five minutes away.
Style permeates all corners of this converted 17th-century townhouse, one of the more popular cheap hotels in central Paris. Parquet floors, retro color schemes, and other special touches make the guest rooms more than welcoming. There are also small single rooms for solo travelers that are bang for your buck. While you won’t find many high-end amenities in the rooms, complimentary toiletries and tea-making facilities are provided.
You can enjoy a good selection of alcoholic beverages at the hotel’s honesty bar, open 24/7. Begin your day with a continental breakfast served in the breakfast room each morning. When it comes to other dining options, you’ll find many cafes and bars in the area.
Top Affordable Bars in Paris
- La Cordonnerie – Located on 28 rue Greneta, this bar is considered to be one of the more affordable bars in Paris. As such it’s a popular hangout for studens and arty types, especially the terrace area.
- Stolly’s Stone Bar – If you’re looking for an affordable bar in the Marais area, Stolly’s is one of the best. The bar brings in a mix of cultures with its affordable drinks and rock music.
- Chez Georges – Located in the 6th arrondissement, in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this wine bar is another popular hangout. In existence since 1952, the old world charm of this place is quite unparalleled and draws in quite a crowd when the sun goes down.
Top Affordable Restaurants in Paris
- Le P’tit Troquet – One of the best places to dig into traditional French food at an affordable price near the Eiffel Tower is at this charming bistro. You can choose from a two or three course lunch menu or a three course dinner menu without breaking the bank.
- L’As du Fallafel – A favorite in the Marais area, this small restaurant has a big reputation for its falafel wraps. While there is seating inside, most people prefer to take their order with them as they explore this trendy area.
- Bouillon Charter – If you’re looking for a novel dining experience without burning a hole in your wallet, head to this Parisian Brasserie that housed in a former railway station. Here too you can relish classic French dishes at an affordable price.
Free Things To Do in Paris
- Parc du Champ de Mars – One of the best views of the Eiffel Tower is from the lawns of the Parc du Champ de Mars. With beautiful flowerbeds and enough sprawling space, it’s a good place to catch the light show of the tower at the end of the day.
- Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris – The iconic cathedral with its festooned gargoyles and Gothic touches should definitely be on your cards if you’re in the city of love. The interiors are still closed to the public after the devastating fire of April 2019, but it’s still beautiful on the outside.
- Arenes de Lutece – Paris’ Roman heritage is visible int this amphitheatre in the Latin Quarter. Said to be the longest Roman amphitheatre ever constructed, it traces its origins to 1CE. It’s easy to get to this attraction if you’re in one of the cheap hotels in central Paris.
