4 Ways to Walk Into History on the Streets of Paris

The budget traveller to the French capital comes in many shapes, sizes and even ages. No longer does the archetypal image of the backpacker, with a giant pack and slightly bedraggled look, hold sway in the hostels in Paris. Those who shy away from the expense and somewhat sanitised feel of hotel accommodation now have as many different incarnations as destinations they can visit. Even for travellers with intellectual pursuits in mind, a small budget need not be a restriction on their experience.

Historic Avenues

The French capital has filled countless pages of history books over the years, and with a stay in any of the hostels in Paris, even the traveller on the strictest of budgets can sharpen their understanding of this intriguing past by walking in the footsteps of those who made the city what it is. Strolling along the Champs Elysees, the Bohemian streets around Montmartre, past the antiquity of Place des Vosges, or the streets circling the Place Vendome and Place Dauphine is the best way to get an understanding of the history and encounter many of the iconic monuments along the way.

Intriguing Museums

From the pricking of the intellect in the city's open air to the satiety of the mind found within its famed museums, staying in any of the hostels in Paris will see you spoilt for choice. The city has long been proud of its 'haute couture', which extends far beyond mere fashion. The Musee de Quai Branly pays tribute to France's forays into the wider world; the Musée National du Moyen Age opens doors to a medieval past; and Musée des Arts et Métiers is itself a slice of history, as the oldest museum in Europe. Whichever one may choose (and hopefully all of them), there is no end to the ways your mind can be stirred in a city that respects the intellect as much as this one.

Storied Architecture

Indeed, some of the museums do not even need you to pass through their doors to have an impact on your thinking. From the former train station of the Musée d'Orsay to the larger-than-life ornament of The Centre Pompidou, so many of the buildings here, old and new, have been designed for a reaction. With the unmissable landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, and delightful small cafes and modern sculptures, you can save on cheap, comfortable accommodation in the hostels in Paris and simply use your feet to indulge your taste for fine architecture.

History is, literally, around every corner and along every street in this city, and, no matter where you stay, you'll never be more than a few steps from unlocking facets of its fascinating heritage.

Looking for a dream travel experience? Jason H. Cunningham works for Hostelling International, a company with more than 4,000 hostels worldwide in fantastic locations. For the best hostels in Paris, or, join our global community and say hi to the world. From quality, affordable accommodation and backpacker tips, to meaningful volunteer opportunities and enriching our eco footprint, we are the world’s local hostelling hub.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.