France Travel Budget - Visit France on a Budget or Travel in Style

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France is a very popular destination famed for Strasbourg Christmas Market, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and this travel cost guide will help you plan the perfect trip without overspending. We've broken down average costs from past travelers, including where to stay, what to eat, and what to see, so that your trip is both affordable and unforgettable. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine in Bordeaux, admiring the small town charm of Annecy, or taking in the beauty of Giverny, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to France?

You should plan to spend around $275 (€262) per day on your vacation in France. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $74 (€71) on meals
  • $31 (€30) on local transportation
  • $318 (€303) on hotels

A one week trip to France for two people costs, on average, $3,844 (€3,668). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $275
    €262
  • One Week Per person
    $1,922
    €1,834
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,844
    €3,668
  • One Month Per person
    $8,237
    €7,860
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,844
    €3,668
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $7,688
    €7,336
  • One Month For a couple
    $16,474
    €15,720
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to France cost?

A one week trip to France usually costs around $1,922 (€1,834) for one person and $3,844 (€3,668) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to France on average costs around $3,844 (€3,668) for one person and $7,688 (€7,336) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in France will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to France on average costs around $8,237 (€7,860) for one person and $16,474 (€15,720) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in France?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in France is $382 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is France expensive to visit?

France is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, France is somewhat more expensive compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its travel costs. While a few countries in the region are more expensive, France is more expensive than most.

Whether you're looking for luxury or traveling on a budget, France has an array of accommodation and activities to suit your needs. For those on a budget, hostels in Paris, Nice, and Lyon are available, but there are also luxury hotels for affluent visitors, and plenty of mid-range hotels for families and couples.

If you're worried about costs in France, there are ways to cut back, like eating at less expensive restaurants, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $100 (€92) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $285 (€262) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $905 (€831) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to France.

For more details, see Is France Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to France?

The average France trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these France travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to France cost?

France on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$51
(€48) 		$159
(€152) 		$577
(€551)
Local Transportation 1 $13
(€12) 		$31
(€30) 		$78
(€74)
Food 2 $30
(€29) 		$74
(€71) 		$180
(€172)
Entertainment 1 $13
(€12) 		$35
(€34) 		$105
(€100)
Alcohol 2 $4-12
(€4-11) 		$10-30
(€10-29) 		$26-79
(€25-75)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Lyon, France Lyon, France

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations about your travel budget is very important. While it's easy to think of yourself as a "budget" traveler who can see everything on a shoestring, most find this style of travel quite challenging. Think about what you truly enjoy and your previous travel experiences. Are you drawn to resorts and vacation rentals, or do you like the budget-friendly environment of hostels? How important is it for you to eat in nicer restaurants? The answers to these questions will influence your overall travel budget.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You may have heard that it's possible to visit France for around $100 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.

While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.

Fortunately, France has an abundance of hostels, particularly in Paris, Nice, and Lyon. Some locations also have great public transit, which help budget travelers steer clear of pricey taxi or rideshare options. While food is a big draw for everyone visiting France, budget travelers often rely on street food or cooking in their hostels, so they may not get to fully experience the local cuisine due to their budget.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors are not going to want to miss Strasbourg Christmas Market in Strasbourg, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or Aiguille du Midi in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $285 per person, per day.

In France, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Paris and Saint-Tropez offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are B&B Le Relais des Saints Peres in Auxerre or La Demeure Guingamp in Guingamp. If you're seeking romance in La Bresse, Chez Jeanmyvonne is an ideal place for couples to stay. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for France here.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $905. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Avignon. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Hiking cruise - Corsica reveals its hidden treasures - offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises.

Accommodation Budget in France

The range of hotel prices in France can be quite surprising, especially when you compare budget-friendly and luxury hotels. Peak season brings much higher prices, so consider traveling in the off-season for a more affordable experience. Booking in advance can also help with savings.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in France for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $318 (€303). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $159 (€152) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $159
    €152
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $318
    €303

Hotels in France

Looking for a hotel in France? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in France

The average hotel room price in France based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $105 in the low season and $196 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Paris
As one of the top tourist destinations, Paris offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $80 in the low season to $442 during the busy peak season. With many travelers lingering for up to seven days, you should prioritize finding a comfortable stay in a favorable location if you plan to explore the area. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Maison Armance for $268 and La Chambre du Marais starting at $225. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $30 for a dorm bed.

Marseille
In Marseille, which is a terrific city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $65 in the low season to $295 during the peak season. La Residence Du Vieux Port ($162) is one of the best hotel options here, and Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux Port - MGallery is also good, and starts at $148. You can expect to pay around $25 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.

Lyon
Lyon is a big city that is one of the more popular destinations in France. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Lyon, the average hotel price is $92 in the low season and $172 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $96 to $179. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $27 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery for $122 and La Tour Rose starting at $129. Since travelers often stay up to five days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in France

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $31 (€30) per person, per day, on local transportation in France. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in France is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $31
    €30
Local Transportation Tips

In France, the train system is excellent, allowing you to connect to nearly all regions of the country. The ticket prices are reasonable, and the rides are both comfortable and swift. If trains don't reach your destination, regional and long-distance buses can help.

If you're looking to save money, public transit is the best way to get around. Many places have reliable public transportation systems. Some of the best include Paris and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Many travelers like to experience places on foot. This lets you get up close and personal with different neighborhoods and the local culture. If you like walking, you'll enjoy your time in Nice and Mont-Saint-Michel.

If you're in larger cities such as Paris and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, consider grabbing a multi-day pass if you plan to use public transit often. You could save a substantial amount depending on your usage rather than buying tickets individually.

Planning to explore the countryside? You'll likely want to rent a car. Keep in mind that the average car in Europe has a manual transmission, and an automatic will come at a higher price. It's best to make your reservation early, as the cheaper options often sell out fast.

Navigating larger cities with a car, such as Paris, can be quite challenging due to their busy and crowded nature. Parking often comes with a hefty price tag, and traffic can be a hassle. By skipping the rental car and opting for public transit or walking, you can save money and enjoy the city more easily.

If you have a car while staying in a larger city, it's wise to confirm the parking arrangements with your hotel before arrival. You may incur parking fees at the hotel or in a nearby garage. Sometimes, parking further from the city center can be a more cost-effective option.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for transit in France are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in France. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.


  • Train
    €20
  • Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus
    €19
  • Metro tickets
    €6.80
  • Funiculaire
    €5.20
  • Parking
    €1.40
  • Train from Airport
    €9.00
  • Local Bus
    €1.10
  • Metro Pass
    €3.00


Food Budget in France

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in France can vary significantly, the average cost of food in France is $74 (€71) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $74
    €71

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in France is around $77 (€71) per person, with previous travelers spending from $31 to $187. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in France are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $14 to $23
  • Lunch: $12 to $39
  • Dinner: $27 to $62
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

France is famous for its food. In fact, the cuisine is one of the biggest draws for visitors to the country. A few of the most famous dishes are listed below. Or, for more information (and to make you hungry), check out this guide to what to eat in France. And of course, this just covers the food. We haven't even started talking about the wine yet!

Cassoulet: This slow cooked French style stew is similar to a casserole. It is usually made with a meat and white bean sauce which have cooked long enough that the flavors have intertwined. It's a popular dinner dish, but it can also be found on occasion in restaurants during lunch time.

Boudin blanc: This is a type of white pork sausage usually made with liver and heart parts and softened with milk. The sausages are usually prepared by either sauteing or grilling them.

Andouillette: This is a smaller version of andouille sausage made with pork, onions and seasoning. It often has a very smoky and spicy flavor. While many forms of andouille sausage is found around the world, true andouillette is rarely found outside of France.

Popular Culinary Destinations

France is an extremely popular culinary destination, and the cuisine is enjoyed around the world. Many visitors come just for the food. Some of the best foodie cities include Paris, Bordeaux, and Cannes.

Paris
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Paris. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Bordeaux
Bordeaux is one of the best culinary destinations in France. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Cannes
One of the best culinary spots in France is Cannes. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

Annecy
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Annecy. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Nice
Nice is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Food & Dining Tips

If you find yourself in larger cities such as Paris, Lyon, or Bordeaux, consider enjoying your meals at upscale restaurants during lunch instead of dinner to save some cash. Many eateries in popular tourist areas or business hubs have lunch specials that provide smaller, more affordable versions of their dinner menus. You can occasionally indulge in a full gourmet meal at a great price if you search carefully. Afterward, just keep dinner light.

When staying in a well-known resort area such as Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Cannes, or Nice, many resorts provide a variety of dining choices, making it essential to be aware of the details to grasp the pricing. Certain resorts offer full board, encompassing all meals, while others have half board, which only includes two meals. There may also be on-site restaurants that are not always included in the overall cost. Additionally, drinks might be covered, but this is not guaranteed. It's a good idea to confirm with the resort beforehand to know which meals and beverages you may have to pay for.

Are you planning to stay somewhere like Paris, Bordeaux, or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for a week or more? It's a smart choice for families or groups to book an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen. Cooking your own meals with affordable groceries can save you money.

If you're on the road with kids, search for restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can save you quite a bit since those options usually come at a lower price. Some restaurants might not showcase their kids meals, so be sure to ask the waiter first.

While many hotels include breakfast in the overall price, some may charge you extra for it. The range of prices and quality can vary by hotel. Knowing what to expect can help you determine if the hotel buffet is worth it or if you should just grab something from a nearby bakery or café at a lower cost.

Rather than buying drinks everywhere you go, bring a water bottle with you. It's also a good way to care for the environment.

If you have a tour planned, be sure to find out in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your food costs yourself, potentially impacting your budget.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in France. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Cooking lessons for $237 details
  • Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour for $113 details
  • Paris Off the Beaten Path Belleville Tasting Food Tour for $97 details
  • Parisian Bohemian Walking Food Tour with Gourmet Tastings for $119 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Listed below are typical food prices in France, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Cheese
    €13
  • Dinner
    €57
  • Dinner for 2
    €37
  • Dinner for 2
    €47
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    €86
  • Breakfast for 2
    €30
  • Cookie
    €1.00
  • Coffee
    €2.80


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in France

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in France typically cost an average of $35 (€34) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $35
    €34
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

As a very popular travel destination, France allows many visitors to tick off several items from their bucket lists. Notable places to explore in France are Paris, Bordeaux, and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Paris
Paris is not only the capital city of France, but it is one of Europe's most iconic cities. For many visitors, its a dream destination that is filled with wide boulevards, charming cafes, and world class landmarks. The food is widely recognized as some of the best in the world. The city sits along the River Seine, and a stroll down the river at night is a quintessential Parisian experience.

Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a the heart of France's winegrowing district. It's also a port city that's filled with a lot of history and architecture. The surrounding countryside is filled with vineyards and the city has many great restaurants where you can sample traditional cuisine and local wine.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, or Chamonix, is a world-class ski resort area in the French Alps. It sits at the cross-section of France, Switzerland, and Italy and at the base of the famous Mont Blanc. Mont Blanc is the highest peak in the Alps and the region is famous for its skiing, hiking, and winter sports.

Giverny
Giverny is a village in Normandy that is served as the home of the Impressionest Claude Monet. He lived and worked in the town between 1883 and 1926. Many people visit the town as a day trip from Paris. The house and gardens can be explored in 3 to 4 hours.

Cannes
Cannes is a famous resort town in the French Riviera that is popular with celebrities. It's a glamourous and ritzy destination that hosts the world famous international film festival. The city has many nice beaches, particularly along the Boulevard de la Croisette. This is also where you'll find many luxury hotels.

Sightseeing Tips

For a slower pace with small town charm, you'll want to check out Annecy, Avignon, and La Rochelle. The charming atmosphere and quaint streets of these towns will help you relax and slow down for a while.

Among the most stunning and beautiful spots to explore in France are Paris, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and Giverny. These unforgettable locations are sure to leave you in awe and should definitely be on your must-visit list.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore France. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Guided Electric Scooter Tour of Paris for $70 details
  • Paris in a Day - Private Experience for $297 details
  • Raconteur Paris Walking Tour: Discover the City of Love for $27 details
  • Paris - Historic City Center Walking Tour for $139 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in France, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.


  • Lunch for 2
    €45
  • Catacombs (2)
    €23
  • Winery Tour (for 2)
    €20
  • Admission to Pantheon
    €5.00
  • Castle Entrance Fee
    €5.50
  • Louvre Entry for Two
    €18


Nightlife Budget in France

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $20 (€19) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in France per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $20
    €19
Popular Nightlife Destinations

France is a highly sought-after spot for nightlife, drawing visitors from across the globe to enjoy its vibrant scene. Some of the top nightlife destinations are Paris, Nice, and Saint-Tropez.

Paris
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Paris. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Nice
Nice is one of the best nightlife destinations in France. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Saint-Tropez
Visitors love the nightlife in Saint-Tropez. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

Marseille
The nightlife in Marseille is quite popular. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Nightlife Tips

While the nightlife can be one of the best parts of traveling, cutting back on cocktails can make a big dent in your overall budget.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in France. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Saint-Émilion Wine Tour By Electric Bike, Lunch Included for $182 details
  • Tour of a Vineyard, Winery & Cellar with Wine Tasting in Vouvray, Loire Valley for $58 details
  • Bordeaux : Full Day Wine Tastings & Gourmet Lunch for $197 details
  • Saint Emilion Half Day Ebike and Wine Tour with Picnic. For $124 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in France, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.


  • Wine
    €14
  • Bottle of Wine
    €15
  • Drinks for 2
    €6.80
  • Beer
    €2.60
  • Sangria
    €5.00


Travel Costs Last Updated: Jun 18, 2024
Le Mans, France Le Mans, France

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • If you're heading to France during the summer months, be prepared for bigger crowds and higher prices. Hotels tend to fill up quickly, and accommodation costs can climb steeply. For those who want to avoid the rush and keep their expenses down, visiting in the shoulder or low seasons is the way to go.
  • Destinations such as Paris, Bordeaux, and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are especially popular with tourists, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during peak seasons. This is when you'll find popular attractions to have long lines, sold out tickets, and higher prices. In every place, but especially these destinations, try to make reservations many months in advance if possible.
  • Certain spots tend to attract visitors who like to stick around for a bit longer. In places like Paris, Bordeaux, and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, it's not unusual for travelers to settle in for a week or more to fully soak up the vibe. Families, especially those with kids, often opt for an apartment or vacation rental to make the most of their stay. Not only do you get more room to spread out, but you also have the bonus of a kitchen and other homey perks, which can really help keep costs down.
  • Many couples love heading to France for a fun or laid-back honeymoon. Maybe you're looking for a romantic retreat or just a thrilling weekend adventure. Whatever your vibe, this country offers countless fantastic places to discover with your partner. Some of the most romantic locations include Paris, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and Cannes.
  • Many families love visiting France for their vacations. You'll discover a variety of excellent places for family-friendly trips, such as Paris, Saint-Tropez, and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Kids will enjoy the various activities designed for them, and adults will also have a great time.
  • Countless travelers prefer a laid-back vacation at a resort, where they can relax without the need for extensive planning or traveling. Luxury resorts offer a perfect blend of soothing accommodations, fun activities, and excellent dining options. If you're in search of a tranquil haven to pamper yourself in luxury, then Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Cannes, or Nice is the place to be. Here, you'll find some of the best resorts that France has to offer.

Budgeting Challenges

  • France is a large country with a lot to see, so you can either spend more time visiting many different areas, or spend less time concentrating on one smaller region. If you try to see everything in a shorter trip, you'll spend significantly more money on long-distance transportation. The faster you move and the further you travel during your trip, the more money you'll spend due to these increased transportation costs.
  • If you have young children with you, using a private car or taking a taxi/Uber can make things smoother than dealing with public transport. That said, it does come at a higher cost.
  • For families, many hotels in Paris are not large enough to accommodate a family of four. Space can be tight, so be prepared to find a larger hotel or pay for two rooms.

Lille, France Lille, France
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about France.

What makes France a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

France is pretty expensive, but there are tons of hostels which made it a great country for backpacking. Outside of Paris the hostels were pretty affordable as well.

Tony M
-
May 9 2024

I studied abroad in France and traveled tons while I was there. Prices were much higher during the summer months, but the costs were more affordable during the school year.

by_air_or_sea
-
Nov 28 2023

We were actually able to save a lot of money in France by eating in the more local neighborhoods. The food was incredibly good and not overpriced like it is at many of the tourist spots.

europeonabudget
-
Nov 12 2023

How can you save money during your time in France?

We paid more than I expected for train tickets and restaurant meals. It was worth it, but still pretty pricey.

bagels_and_lox
-
Jan 5 2024

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Traveling in France
France Toulouse, France

France remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The reasons are obvious. From the bustling city of Paris to the French Riviera beaches, and French Alps, this beautiful country has so much to offer. Be sure and explore the castles in the Loire Valley and sip some wine in the countryside. Some people choose to visit one or two highlights in the region before continuing on to the rest of their European tour. Others spend a month or more in this country, soaking up everything it has to offer, from its small towns to its world renowned cuisine.

Because of its popularity, the price of travel in France can be high, but there are some great tricks to help you save money. If you're on a particularly tight budget, couchsurfing or staying in hostels can be an excellent way to save money. Particularly in the larger cities you'll find plenty of budget accommodation options. Many hosts speak English and they're often eager and willing to show you around. You can also save a lot of money by shopping at local markets and picking up local produce and cheese or bread. This will help you enjoy a great picnic of local specialties without the high cost of eating out. Dinner in particular can be quite expensive at restaurants. Consider eating a nice meal out at lunch and preparing your own dinner. Many restaurants has specials at lunch and you can enjoy a three course meal for a fraction of the cost that you would pay at dinner time. French food is acclaimed the world over with good reason. Taste the fresh cheeses and fruits. Settle down to a rich meal with a glass of wine, and don't miss the decadent desserts. If you plan ahead you can experience it all for far less money than you would expect.

Both transportation and hotels in the area can be expensive. It's best to book ahead at by at least several weeks. Prices go up with time and you may find yourself paying almost twice as much for train tickets on the day of your trip. While this doesn't allow you the flexibility you may desire, it is generally well worth the money savings.

Top Tourist Attractions

Some of the highlights of France are listed here. But of course, we can't cover everything at once, so make sure you check out the listing on the various city pages, too. Paris, Lyon, Marseille, wine country, and the many chateaux of the countryside are among the top attractions here.

Pont du Gard This structure was built around 19 BC and is representative of Roman architecture. It was originally designed to carry water between Nimes and Uzes.

Eiffel Tower Probably the most famous French sight, the Eiffel Tower was originally built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition in commemoration of the centennial of the French Revolution. Today it sees thousands of visitors every day, many of which make a trip to the top for the views overlooking Paris.

Prehistoric Megaliths The Carnac Stones are an arrangement of large granite rocks dating back possibly as far as 4000 BC. While the meaning is not known today, it is thought that they may be religious in nature or relate to the astronomical calendar. You can visit them in Brittany.



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2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
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