Free Parking In Paris

Ah, Paris—the city of love, lights, and labyrinthine parking laws! Navigating its charming streets can be as tricky as pronouncing “Croissant aux amandes” after a glass of Bordeaux. But fear not, intrepid traveler! I’m here to guide you through the maze of parking near Paris’s top attractions, sprinkle in some local regulations, and ensure your car doesn’t embark on an unplanned Parisian adventure without you.

Top 10 Famous Sights in Paris and Nearby (Almost) Free Parking

1. Eiffel Tower
   • Parking Tip: Free parking near the Eiffel Tower is as rare as a Frenchman refusing cheese. However, you can find several parking lots within a 5 to 10-minute walk of the monument’s entrances. It’s best to use a paid parking lot, as on-street spaces are limited and often reserved for residents. (toureiffel.paris)
2. Louvre Museum
   • Parking Tip: The Louvre is in the heart of Paris, where free parking is virtually nonexistent. Consider parking in the Bois de Vincennes area, particularly around the Daumesnil Lake, Route de la Pleine, and L’avenue du Bel Air, and then taking public transport to the city center. (parclick.com)
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
   • Parking Tip: Similar to the Louvre, free parking near Notre-Dame is scarce. The Bois de Boulogne district offers free parking options, especially around the Route de la Ceinture du Lac and Route de la Porte Dauphine. From there, you can take public transport to reach Notre-Dame. (parclick.com)
4. Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica
   • Parking Tip: The hilly streets of Montmartre are not car-friendly. Opt for parking in the Bois de Boulogne area and use the metro to ascend to this artistic haven.
5. Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
   • Parking Tip: The bustling Champs-Élysées is a no-go for free parking. Your best bet remains the Bois de Boulogne or Bois de Vincennes, followed by a metro ride to the Arc de Triomphe.
6. Musée d’Orsay
   • Parking Tip: Located along the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay is best reached by parking in the Bois de Vincennes area and taking public transport.
7. Palace of Versailles
   • Parking Tip: Versailles offers more parking options than central Paris. You can park along the D10 road, opposite the southern entrance of the Château de Versailles. From there, it’s a walk to the palace or a short bus ride. (community.ricksteves.com)
8. Luxembourg Gardens
   • Parking Tip: Free parking near these serene gardens is limited. Consider parking in the Bois de Vincennes area and using public transport to reach the gardens.
9. Centre Pompidou
   • Parking Tip: The modern art museum is in a bustling area with scarce free parking. The Bois de Boulogne district offers free parking options, especially around the Route de la Ceinture du Lac and Route de la Porte Dauphine. From there, you can take public transport to reach the Centre Pompidou. (parclick.com)
10. Panthéon
    • Parking Tip: Situated in the Latin Quarter, free parking is a challenge. Opt for parking in the Bois de Vincennes area and take the metro to the Panthéon.

Paris Parking Regulations and Potential Pitfalls

• Paid Parking Zones: Paris is divided into two main parking zones:
  • Central Districts (1st to 11th arrondissements): €6 per hour.
  • Outer Districts (12th to 20th arrondissements): €4 per hour.
• Time Limits: Street parking is limited to 2 hours. Payment can be made via parking meters using credit cards or apps like PayByPhone, ParkNow, and Flowbird. (parisjetaime.com)
• Free Parking Times: Street parking is generally free from 8 PM to 9 AM, on Sundays, and public holidays. However, always check local signs to avoid surprises.
• Underground Car Parks: Available 24/7, these can be identified by a white “P” on a blue background. Rates vary by neighborhood, and some offer special tariffs for weekends or extended stays. (parisjetaime.com)

If Your Car Decides to See Paris Without You (Towing Information)

If your vehicle gets towed:

1. Confirm the Tow: Contact the police to verify if your car was towed. You can also check online by entering your vehicle’s registration number on the Paris Tow Services website or call the municipal police. (en.parisrental.com)
2. Obtain Authorization: Visit the local police station to get an “autorisation de restitution” (authorization to retrieve your car). Bring:
   • Proof of identity
   • Vehicle registration
   • Driver’s license
   • Auto insurance
3. Retrieve Your Vehicle: Proceed to the designated tow lot promptly to minimize additional fees.

Fees: Towing fees can be substantial, and additional daily impound fees may apply. It’s best to act quickly to minimize costs.

Dining Delight with Convenient Parking

Le Chalet des Îles

• Description: Nestled on an island in the Bois de Boulogne, this charming restaurant offers a serene escape with classic French cuisine.
• Parking: Ample free parking is available in the Bois de Boulogne area.
• Address: Lac Inférieur du Bois de