Vive la France on a Budget: A Student’s Guide to Exploring the Country

France has always been a key player in the educational tourism market in Europe. Further, the smart moves in recent years, for example, the e-learning program of 2022, have helped France to grab the attention of all education tourism companies. 

Furthermore, 2024 has been a great year for the overall tourism landscape in France. The Ministry of Economy has confirmed that around 102 million international tourists visited France in 2024, and the international revenue for the year was €71 billion. 

Moreover, France is on the verge of taking a tourism leap with the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project. 

Marseille in France just hosted important discussions about this project and when it is finished, it will be one of the greatest endeavors to connect important trade hubs in the world. 

So, with a huge market boom, improved infrastructure, and better accessibility, France is now readier than ever to welcome students and scholars. It also allows you to nurture your creative side. 

For example, once you have streamlined your academic papers for better grades with college essay writers help, you can even pen a beautiful travelogue on France with the essay writing service EssayPro.

However, before that, let’s find an answer to, “Is France expensive to visit.” Here, we will sort your travel plan and discuss the places you can visit for free. 

Is France Expensive To Visit? Smart Travel Tips For Traveling To France On A Low Budget

France is a dream destination if you are a student. You get social assistance, and you can even explore sports here at a low cost. 

Furthermore, as a student, you will get discounts while visiting a theatre, museum or cinema hall. However, if you want to further curtail your budget, you can check out the following tricks that worked for me while traveling to France on a shoestring. 

1. Use Public Transportation

France’s public transportation system is efficient and reasonably priced. Take advantage of regional trains and local buses to get around. 

For longer distances, consider getting a rail pass like the Interrail or Eurail that offers unlimited travel within France, or even across Europe, at a discounted rate for students.

2. Go For Hostels And Shared Accommodations

Opt for hostels, shared Airbnb rooms, or even university dorms that open up to tourists during the summer months. 

3. Indulge In Street Food And Local Markets

Gorge on crêpes, baguettes, and pastries from local boulangeries to have the most fulfilling gastronomic experience in France.  

Did you know that TripAdvisor has just named Paris the 4th best food destination in the world? You must also try gourmet cheese here at the best price. 

Also, visit local markets where you can pick up fresh, delicious produce at lower prices than most restaurants.

4. Is France Expensive To Visit? Look For Student Discounts

You must ask for student discounts. Many museums and places offer free entry or entry at a discounted price. 

However, always carry your student ID so that you can inquire about and benefit from the student rates.

5. Enjoy Outdoor Activities

The beaches of Normandy, the lavender fields of Provence, and the beautiful landscape of France await you. You don’t need to have a high budget for exploring these places. 

Enjoy these natural wonders by hiking, cycling, or simply taking a scenic walk. 

6. Attend Local Festivals To Have The BestCultural Experience

France is a country that loves its festivals, which range from wine harvest celebrations to music festivals. 

Many of these events have free street performances, parades, and activities, offering fun ways to soak in French culture without spending a lot.

7. Take Part In Student Events To Travel France On A Budget

Many French cities are student-friendly and host events specifically for young people, often at little to no cost. Check local event calendars and university boards for upcoming activities!

8. Picnic Like A Local

France has beautiful public spaces, and picnicking is a national pastime. So, grab some cheese, a baguette, some fruit, and perhaps a little wine, and join in. 

Beautiful spots like the banks of the Seine in Paris, the historic gardens of Versailles, or the rugged coastlines of Normandy provide perfect backdrops for a delicious, low-cost meal.

9. Happy Hour Hunting

Many bars and restaurants in France offer a ‘happy hour’ with special prices on food and drink. This is a great way to enjoy the café culture without the steep prices. 

Sip a café au lait or enjoy a glass of French wine for a fraction of the cost while people-watching in one of the country’s scenic spots.

10. Student Meals and Cafeterias

Check out the university restaurants known as CROUS. These cafeterias offer students full meals at very low prices, and you don’t always need to be a local student to take advantage of these deals.

Is France Expensive To Visit? Explore The Free Places Or Attractions In France

I have already shared some tips to keep aside the question of is France expensive to visit. However, I also cannot deny the fact that an average tourism package from France will cost you around $2000. 

Even with a student discount, the cost will be around $1500. However, Air France also offers you a student discount if you produce valid IDs and documents. So, the overall budget can go a little down. 

Moreover, France has many free places to visit. These attractions are ideal for a rich and fulfilling travel experience on a low budget. 

Is France Expensive To Visit? Explore Free Attractions

Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sacré-Cœur Basilica, two crown jewels in French culture and tourism, offer a free entry. 

Cities like Paris are also home to plenty of beautiful parks, like the Jardin du Luxembourg or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, which are perfect for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.

Discover Lesser-Known Cities

Paris, Lyon, and Marseille are amazing. However, if you set your travel itinerary around them, the overall budget will shoot up. 

France’s smaller cities like Nantes, Bordeaux, and Toulouse offer rich cultural experiences with fewer tourists and lower prices. These cities boast beautiful architecture, vibrant local scenes, and numerous free or low-cost attractions.

Explore The Hidden Gems Of France As A Student 

The hidden gems of France, like Monet’s Garden, are ideal places to travel on a low budget. The Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France, celebrates the life and art of Claude Monet. As a student, you will have to pay an entry fee of only 6.50 Euros.

Riquewihr, a beautiful village in France, is another secret gem in the tourism landscape of France.

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