7 Smart Ways to Save Money When Traveling in France
Traveling through France doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and a few smart choices, you can experience the magic of this iconic destination without overspending. Here’s how to make every euro count.
1. Travel Off-Season
As obvious as it may sound, planning your trip outside peak times can save you a LOT. Summer (June to August) and major holidays like Christmas and Easter mean much higher prices for flights and accommodations. Instead, consider traveling in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). The weather is still nice, crowds are thinner, and you’ll often find better deals on everything from flights to hotels.
2. Use Public Transport Passes
France has excellent public transportation, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Strasbourg, or Marseille. Instead of buying individual tickets, go for daily or weekly passes, like the Navigo Découverte in Paris. These passes cover unlimited travel on metros, buses, and trams, saving you money if you’re moving around a lot. Regional day passes are great as well for exploring areas outside big cities and short trips.
3. Stay Outside Tourist Hotspots
Accommodations in the heart of Paris or near popular areas like the French Riviera can be expensive. Staying a bit farther out can cut your costs significantly. In Paris, staying in less touristy neighborhoods like the 12th or 19th arrondissement gives you affordable options with good metro connections.
Likewise, hotels in central Nice can be expensive, especially near the Promenade des Anglais. For a budget-friendly option, consider staying in Cagnes-sur-Mer, a charming coastal town just 15 minutes away by train. It has quieter accommodations, local markets, and easy access to Nice and the French Riviera.
4. Opt for Picnics Over Restaurants
Eating out all the time is typically one of the biggest expenses on your budget, especially in tourist areas. Save money by going to local markets like Marché Bastille in Paris or Marché Forville in Cannes. Pick up fresh baguettes, cheese, cured meats, and wine, and head for a picnic in a park or by the river. This not only saves money but also lets you experience French living like a local.
5. Book Attractions Online in Advance
Popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Château de Versailles, or the Louvre often offer discounts for online bookings. You can also save on a skip-the-line ticket by booking ahead. Some attractions have free entry days – for example, many national museums are free on the first Sunday of each month during the off-season (October to March).
6. Discover France’s Free Gems
Not everything in France comes with a price tag. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Colmar and explore its canals, or admire the grandeur of the Notre-Dame Cathedral without spending a cent. Parks like Jardin des Tuileries or Parc de la Tête d’Or in Lyon offer great spaces to relax. Many cities also host free walking tours – just tip your guide what you can.
7. Choose Regional Trains Over High-Speed Options
While high-speed TGV trains are fast and comfortable, they’re also pricey. Regional TER trains are much cheaper, and though slower, they sometimes offer scenic routes through the countryside. Traveling from Nice to Marseille on a regional train, for example, lets you enjoy beautiful coastal views at a fraction of the price of a TGV ticket.