Paris is often painted as a city of must-see landmarks—the Eiffel Tower piercing the sky, the Louvre’s endless corridors, Notre-Dame’s gothic silhouette. But what if you tossed the checklist aside and let the city unfold at its own pace? Enter mooching: a philosophy of travel that trades rigid itineraries for curiosity, whim, and the simple joy of being present. For a few days in Paris, this laid-back approach lets you soak in the city’s soul without the pressure of ticking boxes. Here’s how to mooch your way through the City of Light—and some ideas to spark your wanderings.