Paris, the city of love, culture, and haute cuisine, attracts millions of tourists from around the globe each year. However, one of the challenges for visitors is finding affordable parking options in this bustling metropolis. Thankfully, there are various ways to save money on parking in Paris, allowing you to enjoy your stay without fretting over high parking costs. Here are some handy tips and advice for cheap parking in Paris.
1. Plan Your Trip to Paris in Advance
Before heading to Paris, it's wise to research your parking options and plan ahead. Online platforms and apps like Parkopedia, Parclick, Parkimeter, Parkvia, and Onepark provide information on available car parks, rates, and reservation possibilities. You can also check out the largest or second-largest parking operator in Paris, ParkingsdeParis or Saemes . By booking in advance, you can not only save money but also ensure a spot, especially during busy periods. In car parks, you generally pay between €36.00 and €50.00 per day. While this may seem pricey, it's still more economical compared to hourly street parking, which costs around €4.00 per hour (Zone 1 - city centre). In Zone 2, the rate drops to just €2.40 per hour. Zone 2 comprises the districts around the ring road (the Boulevard Périphérique), which is significantly further from the centre. Check for the zone layout via the link.
The most cost-effective solution is to utilise private parking spaces available for rent. Through Mobypark.com, you can rent private parking spaces from individuals for prices ranging from €9.00 to €35.00 (depending on the location) per day, plus an additional €2.00 in service fees. Overall, this is the most budget-friendly option, ensuring you have a secure spot in the heart of Paris. Finding a parking space in a busy city has never been easier.
2. Park-and-Ride (P+R) Options in Paris
Paris offers several Park-and-Ride locations on the outskirts of the city, providing excellent opportunities for affordable parking. These parking lots are usually connected to public transport, such as metro and train stations, making it easy to reach the city centre without worrying about traffic and parking issues. The parking facilities tend to be more spacious, giving your car better protection.
Suggestions for metro stations suitable for P+R:
- Porte de Clignancourt
- Porte d'Orléans
- Porte d'Italie / Place d'Italie
- Porte de Clichy
- Porte de la Villette
You also have the option to park on the streets in the surrounding cities of Paris. You may park on streets marked with a white dotted line on the road. Payment for your spot is done via the parking meter on the pavement. Purchase a parking ticket and display it clearly on your dashboard. The parking rate depends on which city you park in.
Further options for P+R can be found at www.parking-public.fr. For planning your journey to your final destination in the city centre, you can use Google Maps or the interactive map showing connections from various metro and RER lines.
See also tip 6 for more P+R locations and their corresponding rates.
3. Free Parking Zones in Paris
Although rare, there are a few places in Paris where you can park for free. These are usually located outside the city centre and are often limited in number. Keep in mind that these spots can fill up quickly, and you may need to walk a distance to reach the centre. It's also crucial to carefully read the local parking signs and regulations to avoid fines. If you opt for this option, be prepared to spend time searching for a spot. This search often takes place in unfamiliar territory amidst the chaos of a busy city, which can be a stressful driving experience, but may be worth it if you want to save money and your family can handle the stress.
4. Evening and Weekend Parking Rates in Paris
Some car parks in Paris offer discounted rates during the evenings and weekends. If you're planning to be in the city mainly in the evening or on weekends, this can be a smart option to save costs. Check out ParkingsdeParis or Saemes.
5. Hotels in Paris with Parking Facilities
If you're staying in a hotel or apartment in Paris, consider choosing accommodation that offers free or cheap parking. While rates can vary, this can be a convenient option, especially if you want to leave your car safely during your stay. Sometimes a hotel with free parking costs just a few pounds more. Opting for such a hotel ensures a secure parking spot around your accommodation, allowing you to explore the city with peace of mind. You can filter accommodations with parking on Booking.com and Airbnb . See the examples below.
6. Biking, Electric Scooters, and Public Transport
Paris is a city well-suited for exploring by bike and public transport. All distances between attractions are very manageable by bike. Therefore, consider parking your car outside the city or in a suburb and using your bike, metro, buses, and trams for transportation. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but is also cost-effective, allowing you to avoid parking issues in the busy city centre. Many people are also getting around on electric scooters. These privately owned electric scooters are currently still permitted in Paris. This is a good option if you have an electric scooter with softer tyres and ample suspension. Many streets in Paris are made up of authentic cobblestones, and an electric scooter with hard tyres will not fare well on these surfaces.
Some suitable P+R locations with their corresponding rates include:
Parking Pyrénées Du Clos (4 Rue Du Clos 75020, Paris) €28.00 per day / €82.00 per week;
Parking Gambetta (211 Avenue Gambetta, 75020 Paris) €23.50 per day / €77.00 per week;
Parking 2000 (234 rue Crimée, 75019 Paris) €25.00 per day / €80.00 per week;
Parking Marché (7-9 Rue des 4 Cheminées, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt) €36.00 per day / €99.00 per week;
Parking Maison Blanche (172 Avenue de Paris, 92320 Châtillon) €18 per day / €70 per week;
Zenpark La Défense (27 Voie des Sculpteurs, 92800 Puteaux) €25 per day / €95 per week;
Parking Valmy Liberté (139/145 Rue de Paris, 94220 Charenton-le-Pont) €13 per day / €56 per week
7. Traffic Rules and Parking Signs in France
Make sure you are aware of the local and French traffic rules and parking signs. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines. Be mindful of times when parking is prohibited and where you need to pay for parking.
It’s clear that finding cheap parking in Paris can be a challenge, but with the right planning and knowledge, you can certainly save money. Choose the option that best fits your travel schedule and budget and enjoy all the beauty that Paris has to offer without worrying about parking costs. Aim for a parking spot at your hotel if you’re staying overnight in Paris, or opt for renting a private parking space or P+R to save money and park safely.
We are confident that with these tips, you will find a great parking spot in Paris. Once there, keep an eye out for these scams in Paris. Don’t forget to check these must-know tips if you’re planning to drive into Paris by car or camper.
