Paris is a dream destination for students, but the cost of living can be high. Fortunately, the city offers a wealth of student discounts that can significantly reduce your expenses. Whether you’re a local student or an international exchange student, knowing where to find these deals is essential. This guide covers the most valuable student discounts in Paris, from transport and museums to food and shopping.
Table des matières:
Student Discounts on Transport in Paris
Getting around Paris can be expensive, but students can save a lot with the right passes.
Imagine R Pass for Students Under 26
The Imagine R pass is a must-have for students under 26. It offers unlimited travel on the metro, RER, buses, and trams in the Île-de-France region for a whole year. The annual fee is around €350, which is less than €30 per month. You can also opt for a school-year version (September to August).
Navigo Découverte with Student Discounts
If you’re not eligible for Imagine R, the Navigo Découverte pass can be a good alternative. While not specifically a student discount, you can load weekly or monthly passes. Some students may qualify for reduced fares through their university or CROUS.
Reduced Tickets for Single Journeys
For occasional travel, you can buy carnets (books of 10 tickets) at a discount. Some stations offer student rates on single tickets if you show your student ID. Always ask at the ticket counter.
Museum and Cultural Site Discounts
Paris is famous for its museums, and many offer free or reduced entry for students.
Free Admission for EU Students Under 26
If you are a student from the European Union and under 26, you can enter many national museums for free. This includes the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Centre Pompidou, and the Arc de Triomphe. You need to show your student ID and proof of age.
Discounted Tickets for Non-EU Students
Non-EU students often get reduced entry fees, typically around 50% off. For example, the Louvre charges €9 for students (regular €17). Always check the museum’s website for current rates.
Paris Museum Pass for Students
The Paris Museum Pass offers access to over 50 monuments and museums. While not a student-specific discount, it can be cost-effective if you plan to visit many sites. Some universities offer special rates for their students.
Dining and Food Discounts
Eating out in Paris can be pricey, but students can find affordable options.
University Restaurants (Resto U)
The Resto U network offers complete meals for around €3.30 for students. These are subsidized by the government and provide a balanced meal. You can find them near most universities. You need a student ID or a IZLY card to pay.
Discounts with Student Cards
Many cafes and bakeries offer a small discount (5-10%) to students. Show your student ID before paying. Chains like Paul or Brioche Dorée sometimes have student deals.
Food Market Savings
Shop at local markets like Marché Bastille or Marché d’Aligre for fresh produce at lower prices. Some markets offer student discounts on certain days. Ask vendors directly.
Shopping and Entertainment Discounts
From clothing to cinema, students can save on many purchases.
Clothing and Fashion
Stores like H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo sometimes offer student discounts of 10-15% with a valid ID. Check their websites or ask in-store. Vintage shops in the Marais district often have student deals.
Cinema and Theatre
Most cinemas in Paris offer reduced prices for students, typically €5-€7 per ticket. The MK2 chain has a loyalty card that gives additional discounts. The Cinémathèque Française offers student rates.
Bookstores and Stationery
Independent bookstores like Shakespeare and Company and Gibert Joseph offer student discounts on books. Fnac and Virgin often have student promotions on electronics and media.
Technology and Software Discounts
Students can access discounted software and devices.
Microsoft Office and Adobe
Microsoft offers Office 365 for free with a valid student email. Adobe provides up to 60% off Creative Cloud subscriptions for students. Check their websites for verification.
Apple and Other Brands
Apple offers student discounts on Macs and iPads, usually around 10% off, plus a free gift card during back-to-school promotions. Dell and Lenovo also have student pricing.
Health and Wellness Discounts
Staying healthy is important, and students can find affordable options.
University Health Services
Most universities have a SUMPPS (Service Universitaire de Médecine Préventive et de Promotion de la Santé) that offers free medical consultations, vaccinations, and psychological support. No upfront payment is needed.
Gym and Sports
Many gyms offer student memberships at reduced rates. Fitlan and Basic-Fit have plans for around €20-€30 per month. University sports associations (AS) provide cheap access to facilities.
Pharmacies and Vision
Some pharmacies offer discounts on certain products for students. For glasses, Afflelou and Optical Center have student deals. Always ask.
How to Access Student Discounts in Paris
To take advantage of these discounts, you need the right documents.
- Student ID: Always carry your valid student ID from your institution. Many discounts require it.
- ISIC Card: The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is widely accepted and gives additional discounts worldwide. You can get it online or at student travel agencies.
- University Email: Use your .edu or university email to access online discounts for software, streaming services, and more.
- CROUS Card: If you are a French student, your CROUS card can get you access to university restaurants and housing services.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t miss out on savings due to these common errors.
- Not asking: Always ask if a student discount is available, even if it’s not advertised.
- Expired ID: Make sure your student ID is current. Some places are strict.
- Assuming all museums are free: Free entry is often only for EU students under 26. Check eligibility.
- Forgetting to renew your Imagine R pass: Set a reminder to renew before it expires to avoid full-price travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do international students get the same discounts as French students?
Yes, most discounts are available to all students regardless of nationality, as long as you have a valid student ID. Some museum free entry is restricted to EU students under 26.
Can I get a student discount on the Paris Visite pass?
The Paris Visite pass does not have a specific student rate, but you can combine it with other discounts. The Imagine R pass is usually better value for long-term students.
Are there student discounts for the Eiffel Tower?
No, the Eiffel Tower does not offer a student discount. However, students can get reduced rates for the summit access if they are under 24.
How can I find student discounts for restaurants?
Use apps like IZLY to find university restaurants. Also, check websites like Student in Paris or follow student social media groups for daily deals.
Is there a student discount for the Paris Metro?
Yes, the Imagine R pass is the best option. For single tickets, you can buy a carnet at a discount, but no extra student reduction.
What is the best student discount card in Paris?
The ISIC card is widely recognized and gives discounts on transport, museums, shopping, and more. It costs around €13 and is valid for one year.
Final Tips for Maximizing Student Discounts in Paris
To make the most of your student status, always carry your ID, sign up for student newsletters, and follow social media accounts that share deals. Join student groups at your university where discounts are often shared. Remember that many discounts require you to ask, so don’t be shy. With a little effort, you can save hundreds of euros per year. Enjoy your time in Paris without breaking the bank!
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Is the Imagine R pass available for international students on exchange programs, or only for those enrolled in French universities?
The Imagine R pass is available to any student under 26 enrolled in a school or university in the Île-de-France region, including international exchange students. You just need a valid student ID and proof of enrollment from your host institution.
I’m a non-EU student. Do the museum discounts apply to temporary exhibitions as well, or just the permanent collections?
Generally, the student discount for non-EU students applies to the permanent collections. Temporary exhibitions often have separate pricing, but some museums may extend the discount. It’s best to check the specific museum’s website for details on current exhibitions.