France on a budget: Managing your money and costs

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France, with its rich history and stunning architecture, is a dream destination for many travellers. However, navigating the costs of travelling around France on a budget can be challenging, especially for those on a tight budget.

Whether you’re planning to explore the romantic streets of Paris, the sun-soaked beaches of the French Riviera, or the picturesque villages of Provence, understanding the costs involved and planning your budget effectively will ensure that you make the most of your time in France without breaking the bank.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you budget effectively while enjoying all that France has to offer.

French currency

The currency of France is the euro (€), which is used across much of the European Union. The euro is divided into 100 cents, and both coins and banknotes come in various denominations. Coin denominations include 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent pieces, as well as 1 and 2 euro coins. Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros.

Understanding the costs in France

France is generally considered a mid- to high-cost destination, particularly in major cities like Paris, Nice, and Lyon. Understanding the costs in France involves recognising the varied expenses for accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities, which can significantly differ depending on the region, season, and type of experience you seek.

Payment methods

In France, payment methods are diverse and convenient, with credit and debit cards being widely accepted in most establishments. Contactless payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also popular, especially for smaller transactions, while cash remains useful for smaller businesses and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.

Accommodation

• Budget hotels/hostels: You can find budget hotels and hostels for around €50-€100 per night. Hostels are cheaper, with dormitory beds starting at around €20-€40 per night.
• Mid-range hotels: Prices typically range from €100-€200 per night, offering comfort and good service.
• Luxury hotels: Expect to pay around €200-€500 per night in cities like Paris, Cannes, or Nice. Boutique hotels and five-star accommodations can exceed €1,000 per night.
• Airbnb/short-term rentals: Prices vary depending on location but expect to pay around €60-€150 per night for an apartment or private room.

Food

• Street food and bakeries: Grab a baguette sandwich, crêpe, or a pastry for around €5-€10.
• Cafés and bistros: For a more casual experience, meals at cafés and bistros cost about €15-€30.
• Mid-range restaurants: A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around €30-€50 per person.
• Fine dining: Michelin-starred restaurants in France can cost anywhere from €150-€500 per person, including wine.

Transportation

• Train travel: France’s extensive rail network is a convenient way to travel. High-speed TGV trains can be expensive, with prices ranging from €30-€150 depending on distance and time of booking.
• Public transportation: In cities like Paris, a single metro or bus ticket costs around €1.90, while a day pass is about €7.50.
• Car rental: Renting a car can cost around €30-€70 per day, plus fuel. Keep in mind that fuel in France is around €1.70-€2 per liter.
• Taxis and ride-sharing: Taxis are expensive, especially in big cities, with a minimum fare of about €7 and additional charges per kilometer. Uber is available in most major cities and can be a slightly cheaper alternative.

Sightseeing and Activities

• Museum and attraction fees: Major attractions like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower charge entry fees of around €15-€25. Consider buying a city pass for discounted access to multiple attractions.
• Tours and experiences: Guided tours can range from €30 to over €200 depending on the experience.
• Free activities: Many of France’s stunning landmarks and beautiful parks can be enjoyed for free. Walking tours in cities and exploring villages in the countryside are great ways to experience France without spending much.

Sample daily budget for France

Here’s a rough estimate of a daily budget for a budget traveller in France:

• Accommodation: €50 (shared hostel dormitory or budget hotel)
• Food: €25 (mix of street food, market purchases, and casual dining)
• Transportation: €10 (public transport within a city)
• Attractions: €10 (museum entry or other activities)
• Miscellaneous: €10 (coffee, snacks, small souvenirs)
• Estimated total daily budget: €105 per day

This budget can vary significantly depending on your travel style, the cities you visit, and how much you indulge in shopping or dining. Mid-range travellers might budget around €150-€200 per day, while luxury travellers could easily spend €300 or more.

Tips for travelling around France on a budget

To make the most of your trip without overspending, consider these budgeting tips:

• Plan and book in advance: Booking flights, accommodations, and major train journeys well in advance can save you a considerable amount of money. Early bookings often come with discounts, especially for the TGV or Eurostar.
• Travel off-season: France is a popular destination year-round, but prices are typically lower during the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to November). The weather is still pleasant, and you’ll avoid the crowds and high prices of the peak summer season.
• Use public transportation: Public transport in cities like Paris is extensive and affordable. Opt for multi-day or weekly passes if you’re staying in one city for a longer period. For intercity travel, consider buses like FlixBus as a cheaper alternative to trains.
• Eat like a local: To save on food, take advantage of the “prix fixe” menus offered by many restaurants at lunch, which are often more affordable than dinner menus. Visiting local markets and grocery stores for fresh produce, cheese, and bread is a great way to enjoy a meal without the restaurant price tag.
• Explore free attractions: France is rich in cultural heritage, and many attractions are free. Enjoy the beauty of public parks, wander through charming neighbourhoods, or visit the numerous churches and cathedrals without spending a euro. Also, many museums have free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
• Manage currency exchange wisely: Avoid exchanging large sums of money at airports or tourist areas, where exchange rates are often unfavourable. Instead, use ATMs or a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

Using ATMs in France

Using ATMs in France is straightforward and convenient, as they are widely available in cities, towns, and even rural areas. Most ATMs accept major international credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. When using an ATM, you’ll be prompted to enter your PIN, select your transaction type, and choose the amount you wish to withdraw.

Be mindful of potential fees: your home bank may charge for international withdrawals, and the ATM operator might also impose a fee. It’s advisable to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card and to use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas to ensure safety. Additionally, ATMs typically offer language options, including English, which can make the process easier for travellers who don’t read French.

Using credit cards in France

Using credit cards in France is generally hassle-free, as they are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and many other businesses. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are most commonly used, though American Express is accepted in fewer places. For transactions, you may be asked to provide a PIN in addition to your signature, especially for small purchases or at self-service kiosks.

It’s a good idea to notify your credit card company of your travel plans before departing to prevent any issues with your card being flagged for suspicious activity. Be aware that some establishments, particularly smaller shops or rural locations, might prefer cash or impose a minimum spend for credit card transactions. Additionally, check for any foreign transaction fees that might be applied by your card issuer to manage your expenses effectively.

Tipping in France

Tipping in France is generally more relaxed compared to some other countries, as a service charge is usually included in your bill, particularly in restaurants and cafés. This charge, known as “service compris,” typically amounts to around 15% and is considered part of the overall price. However, it’s still customary to leave a small additional tip for exceptional service, such as rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra euros.

In bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated, but not required. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up the fare or leaving a modest tip for good service is a polite gesture. Overall, while tipping is not obligatory, it is always appreciated for outstanding service.

Conclusion

If you intend on travelling around France on a budget it doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. By planning ahead, being mindful of your spending, and taking advantage of budget-friendly options, you can experience the beauty and charm of France without overspending.

Whether you’re savouring a croissant in a Parisian café or exploring the picturesque villages of Provence, a well-planned budget will allow you to enjoy all that France has to offer with peace of mind.