Is France an expensive city to visit?

When we think of Paris, the capital of France, the word “expensive’ often comes to mind. But is that reputation deserved? The truth is that just like any other city, France’s capital can be either expensive or affordable depending on a number of factors.

When it comes to accommodation and sightseeing, France is no different from other major tourist places. Of course, it may be more expensive than less famous cities, but you can always find ways to save money and still enjoy Paris. Here’s a look into what makes France an expensive city and how you can avoid the notorious French costs and still enjoy your vacation.

Accommodation Costs

Like all holiday destinations, staying in France can be expensive if you don’t do your research. One of the best – and most affordable – options is to opt for an AirBnB rental instead of a hotel. This can save you up to 50% compared to the cost of a hotel. Moreover, you can find amazing locations in the outer arrondissements (districts) which cost less than in the centre of Paris.

Eating Out

When it comes to eating out, Paris actually has some fairly reasonable prices – especially in comparison to other European cities. You could easily find meals for under €10 or €15 that include a starter, main course, and a drink. There are also plenty of sandwich bars, pizzerias, and cheap ethnic restaurants that offer food at budget prices.

However, if you want to experience the best of Paris’ cuisine then your wallet might take a hit. Expect to pay at least €20-30 at a middle-range restaurant with the pricier ones reaching up to €50 or even more per person. To reduce those costs, you could opt for €10-20 prix-fixed menus or lunch specials throughout the week.

Shopping

Paris is home to some of the world’s most luxurious shopping destinations. From flagship stores on the prestigious Champs Elysees to avant-garde boutiques in the Marais district, there’s something for everyone – regardless of budget.

But although you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for great brands or souvenirs in France, the truth is that shopping there is still relatively expensive. It’s not uncommon for shops to charge up to 10% more than their equivalent prices abroad. To get around this you could opt for cheaper shops in the outer arrondissements or check out outlet stores in neighboring cities such as previous host city of the Olympic games Lyon.

Nightlife

France’s nightlife is fun and vibrant, with something for everyone – whether it’s enjoying an outdoor film in the Jardin des Tuileries or sipping cocktails in chic lakeside bars near the Eiffel Tower.

Yet, when it comes down to drink prices it can quickly become expensive – particularly when compared to other parts of Europe. Some bars will charge up to €12 per beer or glass of wine which makes staying sober much more appealing than partying with your friends until dawn! To save money, you could choose drinks promotions or pre-game before heading out for the evening.

Overall Impression

All things considered, there are definitely ways of making the best out of your visit to France without overspending – but you might have to make some compromises along the way. Whether it’s opting for an AirBnB rental instead of a hotel room or avoiding window-shopping along the Champs-Elysees, there are certainly viable solutions to making Paris an affordable tourist destination without sacrificing on quality or experiences.

At the end of the day, it’s about what you choose to spend your money on and understanding where savings can be made. If you do your research and plan ahead you’ll be able to enjoy the best of Paris without needing a second mortgage!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Paris

Paris may be known as the city of love, but it can also be daunting for tourists with so much to explore and so much hype surrounding it. The gleaming Eiffel Tower, the iconic Louvre Museum, and the charming Seine River are all must-visit spots, but for those looking to go beyond the regular tourist itinerary, the city offers a plethora of hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences and historical tales. So, if you’re planning a trip to Paris, read on for an insider’s guide to the city.

Local Attractions

Take a stroll in Buttes-Chaumont, a 25-hectare public park lined with stepped paths, lakes, a waterfall, and stunning cliffs, overlooking the picturesque view of the city. Witness the contemporary art exhibitions at Fondation Louis Vuitton, a striking glass architecture that towers above the Bois de Boulogne park. For a quintessential Parisian experience, head to Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque canal lined with trendy boutique shops, cafes and galleries that is frequented by artists and locals alike.

Dining Spots

Paris is a gastronomical capital, famous for its exquisite and flavoursome cuisine. Crème Brûlée, Coq Au Vin, Escargot, and Steak Frites are just some of its classic dishes, but one must try the French pastries and bakeries if they want the real feel of the city. Treat yourself to some delicious croissants at the family-run Boulangerie Julien, renowned for its authentic croissants and local baguettes. Another fantastic option is Le Comptoir General, a cultural hub with a unique concept of serving traditional African food and concoctions accompanied by hip-hop tunes and artsy Parisian vibes that promise to take you on a unique culinary journey.

Cultural Experiences

For a deeper understanding of Parisian culture, explore the artistic Montmartre district, where renowned painters used to gather in the 19th century to showcase their work. Tour the Musée de la Vie Romantique, where you can relive the romantic era of Paris, with its collection of works and artefacts of famous writers and artists of the period. Art lovers must visit the Musée D’Orsay, a museum that houses a vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Local History

Learn about one of the scandalous events in Parisian history with a visit to the Catacombs, a network of tunnels with countless bones and skulls arranged in an eerie new home. Another captivating spot is Place de la Concorde, located in the heart of Paris, where the guillotines were set up during the revolution. The spot has now transformed into a lovely place to sit and appreciate the statues, fountains, and traffic circles.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want a unique experience in Paris? Try a cycling tour along Canal Saint-Martin, a fantastic way to discover the hidden corners and admire the street art that line the way. Another quirky experience is to visit Musée des Égouts, the museum of sewers, to learn about the history of the underground tunnels that play a pivotal role in the city’s infrastructure.

In conclusion, Paris can be an expensive city to visit, but with a little bit of exploration outside the conventional tourist trails, you can discover much more than your money’s worth. From hidden parks to underground museums, quirky neighbourhoods, and culinary experiences, there is so much to explore and create memories that will last a lifetime.