Cheap Skates for Cheapskates: Free skating in Paris

Revelers and skaters take in the rink Paris’ Hotel de Ville, photo by dottavi

Ah, we love Paris at Christmastime! And, even though this city is certainly no slouch when it comes to attractions (Hello Mona Lisa!), it’s always refreshing to get out of the museum mindset and work in some vacation-friendly exercise. That’s why we’re recommending the very, merry Cheapo skating rink at the Hôtel de Ville.

Get your skate on

Located in the Fourth Arrondissement near the majestic Notre Dame and the expansive Pompidou Center; the Hôtel de Ville serves as Paris’ city hall, as well as the office of the mayor.

If you need skates, it costs a mere €5 to rent a pair, but if you bring your own, the skating’s completely free! The rink is open Monday through Thursday from 12 noon to 10 PM, Friday at 12 noon until midnight, Saturday from 9 AM to midnight, and on Sunday from 9 AM to 10 PM.

The rink opens December 19th and is open to the public until March 1st.