Travel Costs in France
All figures are approximate estimates in USD for comparison.
- Budget / day
- $85
- Mid-range / day
- $200
- Luxury / day
- $550
- Budget meal
- $14
- Coffee
- $3.5
- Local transport
- $2
- Budget hotel
- $55
- Mid-range hotel
- $145
Overview
France is a moderately expensive destination in Western Europe, with Paris significantly pricier than the countryside or smaller cities like Lyon or Bordeaux. Accommodation and dining out are the biggest cost drivers, especially in tourist-heavy areas, while world-class museums and iconic attractions add up quickly for sightseers. The overall cost is comparable to other major Western European destinations like Germany or the Netherlands.
Notes
Take advantage of the fixed-price 'formule' or 'menu du jour' lunch deals at bistros, which typically offer two or three courses for 15–20 USD and represent far better value than ordering à la carte; also validate a multi-ride Navigo or carnet of Metro tickets in Paris to cut transport costs noticeably.