7 Insider Hacks for France Travel
Tourists who visit France often miss out on local tricks that make the experience smoother, cheaper, and more authentic. These hacks aren’t just for first-timers – some locals don’t even take advantage of them. Here’s how to travel smarter in France!
1. Learn The Local Way to Buy Wine and Spirits
French wine is cheaper than in most countries, but visitors often overpay by buying from tourist shops. Locals go to Leclerc Drive or Auchan Drive – online order-and-pickup services for supermarkets. These stores have wholesale-level pricing, but few tourists think to use them. It’s one of the best ways to score quality bottles at low prices.
2. Shop for Luxury Bargains at Dépôt-Vente Stores
Paying full price for luxury fashion at flagship stores in Paris isn’t the best option. Locals shop at dépôt-vente boutiques – high-end secondhand stores that sell barely used designer items at lower prices.
Well-known examples include Gabrielle Geppert in Palais Royal, Les Merveilles de Babellou at the Saint-Ouen flea market, Lorette & Jasmin in the 16th arrondissement, and Le Dépôt-Vente de Buci in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
These shops offer everything from vintage Chanel to barely-worn Hermès, often at a fraction of retail prices
3. Skip the Louvre Ticket Line
The famous pyramid entrance at the Louvre almost always has a long wait. But there’s a second entrance through the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall. It has security checks and direct museum access, but with much shorter lines. Even during peak hours, this trick can save half an hour or more.
4. Skip ATM Fees by Using Bank-Affiliated Machines
Most tourists get hit with high withdrawal fees at random ATMs, especially inside airports and near major landmarks. The trick? Use ATMs inside or attached to major banks like BNP Paribas, Société Générale, or Crédit Agricole.
These are less likely to have extra surcharges compared to standalone ATMs. Some international banks (like Bank of America with BNP Paribas) have partnerships that allow fee-free withdrawals (check before you travel).
Avoid Euronet ATMs entirely, as they charge some of the worst fees.
5. Take Long-Distance Trains Without Booking Months in Advance
The common advice is to book TGV tickets far in advance for cheaper prices. While true for standard TGVs, there are better options. Ouigo (budget high-speed trains) and Intercités (non-high-speed trains) often offer lower prices, even last minute. Intercités also doesn’t require seat reservations, meaning you can just hop on.
6. Take the Cheap Tram to the Airport Instead of Expensive Taxis
Many tourists take taxis or Uber from the airport, often paying €50 or more when cheaper public transport options exist.
In Paris, the RER B train connects Charles de Gaulle Airport to the city center for about €10. In Nice, Tram Line 2 runs from the airport to the city for just €1.50. In Bordeaux, Tram Line A now extends directly to the airport, offering a low-cost alternative to expensive taxis. Locals use these every day, but many visitors overlook them.
7. Use Public Transport Apps Instead of Google Maps
Google Maps works fine for basic navigation, but it’s not always the best option in France. Use Citymapper (for major cities) and SNCF Connect (for trains) for real-time delays, strike alerts, and better route suggestions. They’re what locals use when getting around.