You don’t have to spend a fortune ti enjoy your vacation trip to France. Here are soem golden tips for backpackers and travelers with a shoestring budget.

Chateau De France
  • Stay in a smaller town where lodging is cheaper. If inParis, find a suburb well served by the Metro or the RER (the suburban train lines), or stay in a nearby city like Chartres that is a short train ride away.
  • When visiting a particular town for at least a week, consider a vacation rental instead of a hotel. They ususally have a kitchen, so you can cook meals. You will be living more like a local, and the vacation will feel more authentic.
  • Try a home exchange and you won’t have to pay for your lodging. This is especially great if you live in a big city that is a popular destination. You stay in a French couple’s Paris apartment while they visit your London apartment.
  • Don’t throw excessive euros on hotel food. Visit a local cafe and spend half or a quarter the price for a croissant or pastry and cafe au lait. Indulge in one great big French meal a day, instead of spending cash on all three. Get the prix fixe menu, which usually consists of a starter, main dish and dessert, sometimes also wine, for a low price.
  • Sandwiches are also very good to keep you stuffed throughout the day, they usually cost around 3.5 euros. The chain of bakeries like Le Brioche Doree sells a sandwich, drink and a dessert for only 5.5 euros.
  • You don’t need to rent a car or take the taxis. France has an efficient public transport system. Get on the train when visiting towns and getting around the cities.