Exploring France on a budget is easier than you think.
France has a reputation for luxury, but it’s also packed with incredible destinations that won’t drain your bank account. You don’t have to spend a fortune in Paris or retreat to expensive resorts to experience the country’s charm. Some of the most breathtaking places in France offer affordable stays, low-cost activities, and delicious local food that won’t wreck your budget. It’s all about knowing where to go and how to stretch your euros.
Beyond the big-ticket cities, smaller towns and underrated regions offer just as much culture, history, and beauty—often at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re looking for coastal getaways, medieval villages, or wine country escapes, there are plenty of places where you can travel smart without sacrificing the experience.
You’ll find cheap accommodations, free or low-cost attractions, and affordable food options that make visiting France possible on any budget.
1. Dijon offers rich history and fantastic food without the Paris prices.
Dijon is a dream for budget travelers who want a taste of French history and cuisine without the high costs of Paris. The city’s medieval streets and grand architecture provide endless opportunities for sightseeing, much of it completely free. Walking through the historic center feels like stepping back in time, with its half-timbered houses and stunning churches like Notre-Dame de Dijon. Museums like the Musée des Beaux-Arts have free entry, making it easy to soak up culture without spending a cent.
Food lovers will appreciate that Dijon’s culinary scene is both affordable and authentic, as reported by Emily Lester of Wine Scholar Guild. The local markets are packed with fresh cheeses, bread, and the famous Dijon mustard, perfect for a budget-friendly picnic. Even dining out won’t break the bank, as many traditional bistros serve delicious Burgundian meals at reasonable prices. Plus, with its excellent train connections, Dijon is an easy and inexpensive side trip from Paris.
2. Strasbourg combines German and French culture with budget-friendly charm.
Strasbourg, sitting on the French-German border, offers a unique blend of cultures and a charming old town that’s surprisingly affordable, according to Leslie Farnsworth of Observing Leslie. The Petite France district is a picture-perfect area of timber-framed houses, canals, and cobbled streets, and you can explore it all for free. The massive Strasbourg Cathedral is another highlight—you can admire its intricate facade at no cost, or climb the tower for a small fee to get panoramic views of the city.
One of the best ways to experience Strasbourg without spending much is to simply enjoy its café culture. Many local bakeries sell freshly made pretzels and tarte flambée, a regional specialty that’s both delicious and cheap. Public transportation is affordable, but the city is compact enough to explore entirely on foot. With its mix of cultures, beautiful scenery, and budget-friendly food, Strasbourg offers an unforgettable French experience without the Paris price tag.
3. Carcassonne lets you step into a medieval fairytale for cheap.
Carcassonne is like something straight out of a fantasy novel, with its massive medieval fortress perched above the city. Unlike many tourist-heavy destinations, exploring Carcassonne’s historic Cité is completely free. Walking along the ancient walls, wandering through cobbled streets, and admiring the grand castle gates all come at no cost. If you do want to enter the Château Comtal, ticket prices are reasonable, and the experience is worth it for history lovers.
Food and lodging in Carcassonne are surprisingly affordable compared to other parts of France, as reported by the writers at LeBoat. Small family-run hotels and guesthouses offer budget-friendly stays, and local bakeries sell hearty sandwiches and pastries for just a few euros. Outside of the main tourist areas, you’ll find cozy restaurants serving traditional cassoulet, a slow-cooked stew that won’t break the bank. With its well-preserved medieval charm and low-cost attractions, Carcassonne is a perfect budget destination.
4. Annecy gives you breathtaking alpine scenery at a fraction of the cost.
Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps,” offers postcard-worthy views and outdoor adventures without the high prices of more famous Alpine destinations. The town’s old quarter is free to explore, with winding canals, stone bridges, and colorful buildings creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Lake Annecy is the real star, and you don’t need to spend a dime to enjoy its crystal-clear waters—just take a walk along the lakeside paths or relax on one of the public beaches.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty of budget-friendly activities, from hiking in the nearby mountains to renting a bike and riding along the scenic lake. While some alpine towns can be pricey, Annecy has affordable restaurants and budget accommodations, especially if you book in advance or stay in a guesthouse. It’s a fantastic spot for travelers looking for natural beauty without the high cost of a ski resort.
5. Bordeaux delivers world-class wine at surprisingly low prices.
Bordeaux may be known for its prestigious wines, but visiting this vibrant city doesn’t have to be expensive. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best explored on foot, with grand 18th-century buildings, stunning squares, and lively streets offering plenty to see for free. The waterfront along the Garonne River is perfect for a budget-friendly stroll, and the famous Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, is a must-visit spot that won’t cost a thing.
Surprisingly, wine tasting in Bordeaux can be quite affordable. Many local wine bars offer tastings for just a few euros, and the city’s surrounding vineyards often have budget-friendly tours. Eating out is also reasonable if you know where to go—small bistros and bakeries serve excellent local food at much lower prices than in Paris. With its mix of history, culture, and cheap wine experiences, Bordeaux is a must for budget-conscious travelers.
6. Marseille brings Mediterranean beauty at a fraction of the Riviera’s cost.
Marseille is a fantastic alternative to the overpriced destinations of the French Riviera. The city’s Old Port is a lively, budget-friendly area where you can watch fishermen unload their catch or enjoy a cheap, fresh seafood meal. Just walking through the historic Le Panier district gives you a taste of Marseille’s colorful culture without spending a cent.
One of the biggest perks of visiting Marseille is its access to stunning natural scenery. The Calanques, a series of dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves, are free to explore—just pack a picnic and take one of the many hiking trails leading to secluded beaches. Marseille’s public transportation is inexpensive, and if you skip the touristy waterfront restaurants in favor of small neighborhood spots, you’ll find amazing food at local prices. It’s an ideal destination for budget travelers who want sun, sea, and culture without the Côte d’Azur price tag.
7. Montpellier offers a lively, affordable escape with a student-friendly vibe.
Montpellier is a vibrant city with a youthful energy, thanks to its large student population. This makes it one of the most budget-friendly places in southern France. The historic center, with its narrow streets and lively squares, is entirely walkable, and many of the city’s best attractions, like the Place de la Comédie and the Promenade du Peyrou, are completely free to visit.
The city’s Mediterranean location means you can enjoy warm weather and nearby beaches without spending a fortune. Public transportation is cheap, and if you’re into museums, Montpellier has several that offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Thanks to its student-friendly atmosphere, there are plenty of affordable restaurants, bars, and cafés where you can enjoy great food and wine without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect mix of history, culture, and affordability.
8. Nantes blends history, creativity, and affordability in one dynamic city.
Nantes is a hidden gem that offers an exciting mix of history, culture, and affordability. Its old town is filled with charming streets, medieval buildings, and grand landmarks like Château des Ducs de Bretagne, which you can explore for free. Walking along the banks of the Loire River or through the lush Jardin des Plantes costs nothing but offers some of the best views in the city.
One of the biggest draws of Nantes is Les Machines de l’Île, a unique, artistic amusement park featuring giant mechanical creatures. While some rides require a ticket, just wandering around and watching the massive moving sculptures is an experience in itself. The city has a thriving food scene with affordable crêperies, cozy bistros, and fresh seafood from the nearby coast. With budget-friendly accommodations and an efficient tram system, Nantes makes for a fantastic and affordable French adventure.
9. Toulouse charms visitors with its pink-hued streets and budget-friendly eats.
Toulouse, known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) due to its distinctive terracotta buildings, offers a lively, relaxed atmosphere without the high prices of Paris or the Riviera. One of the best ways to experience the city is simply by walking its picturesque streets, where you’ll find beautiful squares, vibrant markets, and lively cafés. The Capitole de Toulouse, the city’s most famous landmark, is free to visit and provides a stunning glimpse into local history.
Food lovers will appreciate Toulouse’s affordable dining options, with plenty of cheap but delicious regional specialties like cassoulet and duck confit. The city’s large student population keeps prices low in bars and cafés, making it easy to enjoy French cuisine and wine on a budget. Toulouse is also a gateway to the Pyrenees, meaning outdoor enthusiasts can find affordable hiking and adventure opportunities just a short trip away.
10. Avignon gives you a taste of Provence without the luxury price tag.
Avignon, famous for its medieval history and stunning scenery, offers a budget-friendly way to experience the beauty of Provence. The iconic Palais des Papes may charge an entry fee, but wandering around the historic city walls, strolling through cobbled streets, and admiring the legendary Pont d’Avignon costs nothing. Free festivals and street performances often fill the squares, especially in summer.
Food in Avignon is refreshingly affordable if you stick to local bakeries and markets, where fresh produce, cheese, and baguettes make for the perfect picnic. Accommodations range from budget hotels to cozy guesthouses, and with a well-connected train system, it’s easy to visit nearby lavender fields or the vineyards of the Rhône Valley without renting a car. If you want the magic of Provence without the high costs of places like Saint-Tropez, Avignon is a perfect choice.
11. Lille surprises visitors with Flemish charm and great value.
Lille is one of France’s most underrated cities, offering stunning architecture, fantastic food, and a lively cultural scene—all at a fraction of the price of more tourist-heavy destinations. The city’s Grand Place and Vieux Lille district are full of elegant buildings and cozy cafés, where you can sit and soak up the atmosphere without spending much. Many museums, including the Palais des Beaux-Arts, have free or discounted entry days.
One of Lille’s best budget-friendly aspects is its food. Influenced by both French and Belgian traditions, the local cuisine includes hearty, affordable dishes like carbonnade flamande (a slow-cooked beef stew) and moules-frites (mussels with fries). With easy train connections from Paris, Lille makes for an excellent, affordable getaway with plenty of charm and culture to enjoy without breaking the bank.