12 French Destinations So Cheap, Even the Croissants Are Baffled
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When you first think of France, it’s likely images of Parisian elegance come to mind and expensive getaways to the region’s luxurious Riviera. While visiting these areas is definitely worth it, for those on a budget, they aren’t all that feasible.
Fear not, however! France offers a wealth of budget-friendly destinations that offer as much as their more expansive counterparts. From historic medieval villages to stunning natural landscapes, these hidden gems provide an authentic taste of French life without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s a pocket-friendly corner of France waiting to be discovered.
So, join us as we break down the 12 cheapest places to visit in France. Each location has been carefully selected based on cost factors, including accommodation, food, activities, and transport. We’ve only included destinations that still offer plenty of fun, a taste of authentic French culture, and of course, the food! Let’s dive in.
1. Limoges
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Found in the heart of the French country, Limoges is best known for its world-famous porcelain, a staple of the city dating back centuries. Beyond its artistic heritage, it offers a lovely old town with medieval streets, a magnificent Gothic cathedral, and picturesque timber-framed houses. Seriously, they look straight from the pages of a fairy tale!
For affordable accommodation, you have options such as the Ibis budget Limoges Centre Gare, where rooms start from $70 a night. The city’s museums are also free to enter, and you can enjoy a traditional bistro for as little as $16.
Read also: Ultimate France Bucket List of Experiences
2. Montpellier
Montpellier is a a vibrant university town in the south of France that teems with a youthful energy and is home to a rich cultural scene. A highlight for most visitors is its historic center, a labyrinth of narrow streets, lively squares, and elegant 18th-century mansions.
Thanks to its fantastic city markets, local produce is pretty reasonable in this slice of France, while a hearty meal at a casual eatery is only going to set you back $15. Accommodation can also be surprisingly affordable in this bustling city, with the average price of a hotel costing no more than $78 a night.
Read also: Secret Destinations To Discover in France
3. Dijon
The proud capital of the Burgundy region and world-renowned for its mustard, Dijon offers more than just culinary delights! For history enthusiasts, the city’s medieval heart is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with architectural gems like the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Notre-Dame de Dijon church.
Dijon offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, such as the Hôtel Le Chambellan, where rooms can start as low as $65 per night.
Read also: Unusual French Foods To Try
4. Nantes
Nantes has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Quickly developing into a hub of innovation and creativity, its eclectic mix of historical landmarks, contemporary art installations, and quirky attractions make it a highly unique, fun-filled destination.
A week-long trip to Nantes will cost around $800, but that includes all of your accommodation, eating out, transportation, and entry to all major attractions. Not too bad for a city that is fast becoming the up-and-coming travel destination in France.
Read also: Budget-Friendly Small Towns in France
5. Strasbourg
Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region, offers an awesome blend of French and German influences. Its picturesque old town, with its half-timbered houses, canals, and the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be on everyone’s French bucket list.
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While Strasbourg can be a bit pricier than other destinations on this list, budget-conscious travelers can still find savings here. For example, a one-way journey on public transport is just $2, while during the city’s magical Christmas markets (known as a pricier season to visit), you can still savor traditional Alsatian cuisine at a cozy winstub for around $27 per person.
Read also: Famous Landmarks in France
6. Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand is a city of beautiful contrasts that can be found tucked in the Auvergne region. One side includes the historic center dominated by imposting black lava stone Notre-Dame du Port basilica, while the other is a sleek modern metropolis showcasing innovative architecture. Quite the mix!
Accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand is generally affordable, with options such as the Hôtel Clermont Estaing starting its rooms from around $75 a night. The city’s local markets are full of fresh produce and regional specialties, while a satisfying meal at a traditional brasserie will set you back around $15 per person.
Read also: Cheap French Cities To Visit
7. Biarritz
Known as a chic seaside resort on the Basque coast, Biarritz may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of budget travel in France. However, with a bit of planning, you can enjoy its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and fun atmosphere without overspending.
Enjoy local Basque cuisine at a tapas bar for no more than $15 per person while you’re looking at just $17 a day for entertainment options like museums, day tours, and classic sightseeing spots.
Read also: Awesome French Neighborhoods To See
8. Avignon
Avignon is a historic city in Provence most famous for its UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes, a monumental Gothic palace that once served as the seat of the papacy. But beyond its rich heritage, Avignon charms visitors with its medieval ramparts, lively squares, and vibrant cultural scene.
You can find budget hotels here for $70 per night while the city’s markets offer reasonably priced local delicacies, and a meal at a local restaurant shouldn’t cost more than $14 per person.
Read also: Digital Nomad Destinations in Southern France
9. Arles
For history lovers on a budget, Arles is up there with one of the best destinations in France. The city is steeped in history, once being a major Roman settlement with well-preserved ruins such as the Roman Theater of Arles, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you’re looking for a comfortable trip, staying in a mid-level hotel, enjoying meals at local restaurants, and visiting the main tourist attractions, a week in Arles will cost just shy of $1,000. Of course, you can cut back on the luxuries and bring that price down a fair bit.
Read also: Stunning Medieval French Towns
10. Colmar
Colmar, a fairytale-like town in Alsace, is renowned for its colorful half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and magical Christmas markets. If you’re thinking of traveling to France with someone special, this town with its picturesque views and romantic atmosphere is the ideal spot!
Renting a one-bedroom apartment right in the heart of the city center is just $704, a comparable steal when looking at the cost of renting in central Europe! If you’re just looking to stay for a few nights, the hotels in this town are some of the most reasonable in all of France, starting at just $47 a night.
Read also: Enchanting Villages in France
11. Annecy
Affectionately known as the “Venice of the Alps,” the town of Annecy sits on the otherworldly Lake Annecy. It is known for its canals and bridges (hence the nickname), as well as being home to many colorful houses, a medieval old town, and a natural landscape to rival any American National Park.
If you head here during the shoulder seasons, you can find yourself a relative bargain when compared to the peak vacation periods. You might have to look a little harder for budget options, but you can find meals out for $15 a head and a good number of hotels offering rooms between $77 to $111 a night.
Read also: Spectacular Cities and Towns in Southern France
12. Perpignan
Last but not least is Perpignan, a vibrant city in the south of France near the Spanish border. Thanks to its location, it is a melting pot of cultures, with Catalan influences evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions – two holidays in one.
Getting around the city won’t break the back thankfully, with a daily cost of just $3.80 needed. If you fancied making Perpignan your base for a longer trip, an average price of just $570 for a city center apartment makes it an attractive option.
Read also: Awesome Places To Visit in France Beyond Paris
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