France, known for its iconic landmarks, beautiful countryside, and rich culture, is often seen as a dream destination. However, it’s also known for being an expensive country to visit, particularly in major cities like Paris. But don’t let high prices scare you away! With a bit of planning and smart choices, you can experience the magic of France on a budget.

Here are 18 practical budget travel tips to help you enjoy France without maxing out your credit card.

1. Travel Off-Peak

France becomes more enjoyable and costs less during the shoulder seasons; spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) as opposed to summer (July and August) peak travel months.  You’ll silently be bright to see everything and avoid the most popular tourist destinations in France.

2. Fly Into Regional Airports

Avoid Charles de Gaulle Airport when flying into Paris in order to save money. Typically, flights to regional airports like Orly (Paris), Nice, Marseille, or Lyon cost less. You can simply and economically travel to these airports by train or bus, and flying to them costs less.

3. Book Transportation in Advance

When it comes to getting around French cities, one of the world’s best train networks exists within France. The lowest train fares are usually for tickets that have been booked in advance. Search for reduced fares, such as the “Prem’s” fare on the SNCF website. These are non-exchangeable tickets providing huge discounts on both high speed TGV (Train Grande Vitesse) and local TER trains.

Buses such as FlixBus or BlaBlaCar serve as excellent modes of transport between major cities and across France.

4. Use Public Transport

Although renting a car may be tempting, driving in French cities can be expensive and stressful. Take public transport – metros, trams and buses – instead. Budget: Many cities have transportation passes that allow unlimited travel.

5. Embrace Picnics

If you’re a foodie, then France is the perfect place for you – And fortunately, you don’t have to break the bank when it comes to eating french food. Grab fresh croissants and baguettes at a boulangerie (bakery), get some cheese or pâté, maybe some charcuterie at the market and go to the park for a picnic. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a wine bottle! French wine is all you really need and with the pocket hole it’s drinkable!

6. Explore the Countryside

As great as Paris is, it can also be expensive. To experience French culture on a budget, look to smaller cities and towns like Lyon, Bordeaux or even the Champagne region. These venues offer cheaper places to stay, eat and play – and you’ll be able to experience the real French life away from tourist crowds.

7. Take Advantage of Free Activities

Most French towns have something free, whether a walking tour, a public garden or day at the museum. For example, the Louvre Museum in Paris offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month. You can also check out neighborhood markets, tour beautiful parts of town or go into churches and cathedrals that don’t charge admission.

8. Choose Budget Accommodation

Hébergement can consume a large portion of your travel budget. In order to save money, search for hostels, budget hotels or guesthouses (chambre d’hôte). Sites like Hostelworld are great for finding budget options. If you’re traveling with family or friends, consider renting an apartment or staying in the countryside to keep costs down.

9. Eat Like a Local

Rather than eating at fancy restaurants, seek out “plat du jour” (daily specials) or prix fixe menus that are frequently significantly cheaper than a la carte. These meals usually consist of two or three courses, and often a glass of wine or coffee.

10. Travel by Carpooling

Carpooling is an excellent way to cut down on travel expenses while in France. Download money-saving apps like BlaBlaCar to easily catch rides between cities. This is not only budget-friendly but also a means of meeting with locals and exchanging travel experiences.

11. Avoid Hotel Breakfasts

A hotel breakfast can be pricy, so forego, and enjoy a hot croissant and coffee at a nearby boulangerie instead. It’s a wonderful way to begin your day for not much money.

12. Look for Discounts with Your Student or Senior ID

Students and seniors can get into museums, attractions and public transport on the cheap. Many destinations come with huge discounts, provided you present your ID at the door.

13. Book Tickets for Attractions in Advance

Some of those key attractions, like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, are accompanied by long lines and steep prices. Purchase your tickets in advance online to save time as well as money, and search for discounts if they are available.

14. Check for City Passes

Passes to multiple attractions are available from many cities. Check out city passes that combine admission prices and public transportation as a rule of thumb: These options grant you access to more attractions for less money. You can learn about these passes on tourist office websites.

15. Stay in Rural Areas

Don’t stay within the tourist areas when you go to France as it is more pricey. Choose instead the countryside—like Provence or Brittany, where accommodations and meals are going to be much cheaper. You will also get a taste of a calmer, more genuine France.

16. Fill Up Your Car Outside of Town

If you do rent a car, try not to fill up at highway rest stops where fuel prices are often more expensive. Instead, head to supermarkets or local petrol stations just outside the city for much cheaper fuel.

17. Shop at Local Markets

Staying And Dining Instead of eating in restaurants for every meal, shop local markets and buy fresh produce and locally made products. Everything from fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and meats is on offer, often at a fraction of what you’d pay in restaurants.

18. Use a Travel Consultant for Expert Budget Advice

If you want to squeeze the most out of your budget and make travel easier in France, give a specialized business like Budget Travel Consultancy a shot! Sites like Come Live in France can offer personalized advice and tips for saving money, crafting an itinerary, and visiting the less-visited parts of France.

Conclusion

Travelling to France need not be expensive. You travel low season and you plan properly, take public transport and invest yourself in the local culture you can see a lot of France without spending anything. Use these 18 tips to help you navigate through budget-friendly and fun travel planning in France.

Ready to Plan Your Budget Trip to France?

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