Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Your Next French Vacation

What about touring in Parisian cobbled streets, eating cheese in the French countryside, or chilling by the French Riviera? It is possible to travel to France without having to break your wallet. With proper planning and wise decisions, you can travel without having to spend a huge amount of money on this beautiful country.

A vacation in France does not have to be an exclusive trip for rich people. With a bit of planning, flexibility, and some local knowledge, you can enjoy the charm, culture, and food without going short. Whether you are after drinking a cup of coffee in a low-key cafe or looking at world-class art, you will find that the experiences of the best things in life are often not attached to a price. 

Check out this list for some practical, budget-friendly travel tips for an amazing French getaway – 

1. Travel During the Off-Season 

There is no better feeling than saving up for your French holiday, which can be done by avoiding the tourist season. The peak period and the highest prices are during summer months (June up to August) and holidays such as Christmas. The shoulder seasons, spring (April to early June) or fall (September to early November), are the best options. Not only will you get cheaper tickets to flights and hotels, but there’ll also be less queuing and a more relaxed atmosphere. 

2. Use Budget Airlines and Trains

France is very well connected by budget airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Transavia. Booking early will help you get a round-trip flight to your destination at a fraction of the cost. When it comes to domestic travel, the high-speed trains in France (TGV) are worth it, though you should avoid last-minute train tickets as the best prices are offered via pre-booking them through Oui.sncf. The other option is Ouigo, which offers low-cost train services to most of the largest cities across France at minimal cost.

3. Consider Alternative Accommodations

Skip expensive hotels and consider staying in a hostel, Airbnb, or budget-friendly guesthouses instead. Social sites such as Couchsurfing offer free stays with locals, allowing you to experience the true spirit of the French people. If you are considering a longer stay, consider house sitting or home exchange programs to reduce accommodation costs completely. 

4. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

France is full of cultural treasures, and many of them are free! For example, in Paris you can visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur, and walk through Jardin du Luxembourg, without spending a single euro. On the first Sunday of every month, most museums such as the Louvre are free to enter. When on holidays, always visit the local tourism websites to have updated offers and free activities. 

5. Eat Like a Local

French cuisine is world-famous, but it does not mean you have to dine at some Michelin-starred restaurant. You can enjoy delicious and affordable meals at local boulangeries, brasseries, and street markets. A fresh baguette, wine from the supermarket, and cheese can make for a perfect picnic spot. For lunch, you can try the prix fixe menus as they set menus that offer great value at many cafes and restaurants.

6. Use City Passes and Discount Cards

Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille offer tourist cards that include discounted entry to sights, unlimited public transport, and sometimes, even the right to skip the queue. The Paris Pass, for example, will give you entry to more than 60 attractions, including the Louver and Versailles. It may look expensive at first, but if you’re taking into consideration visiting multiple sites, it can really help you save in the long run.