Louvre, Paris
Average Daily Expenses (Per Person)
All Budget Styles
Paris
|
Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 113.84 |
| Accommodation1 | € 64.29 |
| Food2 | € 27.38 |
| Water2 | € 2.24 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 21.11 |
| Entertainment1 | € 25.92 |
| Communication2 | € 9.52 |
| Tips and Handouts1 | € 6.24 |
| Souvenirs1 | € 15.00 |
| Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps1 | € 173.10 |
| Alcohol2 | € 7.85 |
Paris is a dream destination for many people. It's location on the river Seine contributes to its stunning beauty and you can spend many days wandering through its wonderfully diverse neighborhoods. It's known as a city of culture, fashion, food and fun. There is never a shortage of entertainment and activities around town and a highlight of many people's trips to Paris is to explore the city at night, when it truly comes to life. It is not hard to see why this city has received the nickname as the "City of Lights."
While there are no shortage of sights in Paris, do not over organize your visit. The city's atmosphere in and of itself is something to be experienced. Make a point of walking between destinations and popping into shops or stores that strike your fancy along the way. The most famous sights in Paris are, of course, the Eiffel Tower, as well as the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Catacombs, and the Pantheon. Paris is also a city of gardens and wandering on foot allows you to see the neighborhoods in detail.
There is a great metro system around town, so when you're hoping to cover great distances, this is your best options. There is no shortage of taxis, but you will pay more and they are no more convenient than the public transportation, so there is little need to take a taxi.
French food is some of the best in the world, and you will find no shortage of options in Paris. If you're on a particularly tight budget, eat a nice meal out a lunch and plan for a picnic dinner. You can enjoy a "business man's" lunch which includes a soup or salad, an entree, and a dessert, all for a reasonable price of around 10 euros. It's a great way to sample multiple dishes and try some unique French dishes without blowing your budget. Then you can go to the local market and pick up some fresh fruit or produce as well as French cheese and some wine to enjoy a nice dinner picnic as you watch the city light up at night. If money is less of a concern for you, then enjoy dinner out as well, and make sure you sample some of the more unique and exotic French delicacies that are available at some of the nicer restaurants.
While there are no shortage of sights in Paris, do not over organize your visit. The city's atmosphere in and of itself is something to be experienced. Make a point of walking between destinations and popping into shops or stores that strike your fancy along the way. The most famous sights in Paris are, of course, the Eiffel Tower, as well as the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Catacombs, and the Pantheon. Paris is also a city of gardens and wandering on foot allows you to see the neighborhoods in detail.
There is a great metro system around town, so when you're hoping to cover great distances, this is your best options. There is no shortage of taxis, but you will pay more and they are no more convenient than the public transportation, so there is little need to take a taxi.
French food is some of the best in the world, and you will find no shortage of options in Paris. If you're on a particularly tight budget, eat a nice meal out a lunch and plan for a picnic dinner. You can enjoy a "business man's" lunch which includes a soup or salad, an entree, and a dessert, all for a reasonable price of around 10 euros. It's a great way to sample multiple dishes and try some unique French dishes without blowing your budget. Then you can go to the local market and pick up some fresh fruit or produce as well as French cheese and some wine to enjoy a nice dinner picnic as you watch the city light up at night. If money is less of a concern for you, then enjoy dinner out as well, and make sure you sample some of the more unique and exotic French delicacies that are available at some of the nicer restaurants.
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Paris Metro Passes
By wanderinggurl
on May 14, 2010 in Local Transportation
If you're going to be taking the metro a good amount plan ahead and buy your tickets in bulk. It'll save you a few euros in the long run and you want have to worry about buying a pass every time you ride the subway.
Rent a Room in an Apartment
By backpackguru
on Nov 18, 2011 in Accommodation
Accommodation can be expensive in Paris. Many young people rent out rooms in the apartments to travelers at cheaper rates. This will also give you access to a kitchen so you can enjoy cooking your own meals and shopping at the local markets. Check websites like craigslist to see if anybody is advertising a short term rental. Of course, watch out for scams, because they do exist, but generally this actually a very safe and fun option to find affordable rooms
Nice
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 88.20 |
| Accommodation1 | € 40.51 |
| Food2 | € 33.65 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 17.75 |
| Entertainment1 | € 9.45 |
| Communication2 | € 5.50 |
| Alcohol2 | € 12.75 |
Nice, in the French Riviera, is one of the most popular destinations in France. The Promenade des Anglais, the famous waterfront, has entertaining for all types. Visit the Colline du Chateau, which offers views of the whole city as well as Baie des Anges. You have the option to either climb the stairs or use the lift to reach the ruined castle.
The beaches themselves are predominately rock, but there are beautiful views, interesting walks along the waterfront, restaurants, museums, and plenty of forms of entertainment. Nice is well worth the visit.
The beaches themselves are predominately rock, but there are beautiful views, interesting walks along the waterfront, restaurants, museums, and plenty of forms of entertainment. Nice is well worth the visit.
Lyon
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 82.33 |
| Accommodation1 | € 39.34 |
| Food2 | € 31.90 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 13.21 |
| Entertainment1 | € 17.92 |
| Alcohol2 | € 19.43 |
Lyon is the capital of the Rhone-Alpes region. It is the third largest city in France and offers a lot of food and cultural opportunities. The geography of the city is affected by the two rivers that run through it, both of which flow north to south. These rivers, the Rhone to the east, and the Saone to the west, divide the city into several neighborhoods, each worth exploring for their own reasons.
Fourviere hill is known as the "hill that prays" because it has a large number of churches throughout it. Old Lyon is the sight of much historic architecture, and Presqu'ile makes up the true heart of the city. Croix-Rousse has unique architecture and historically was home to many of the silk workers. Confluence is an evolving neighborhood that is transitioning into a very contemporary area. Part-Dieu is the main business district, and Brotteaux is the wealthiest area.
The city also plays host to several great festivals including, most famously, the Festival of Lights in December. There is also the Nuits de Fourviere festival between June and August and Nuits sonores is centered around electronic music and takes place in May.
The city itself has many sights including Fourviere basilica, Saint Jean cathedral, Musees Gadagne, Parc de la Tete d'Or, Saint Bruno church, and Parc de Gerland. Many of the sights are concentrated in Old Lyon, and the area is generally quite compact and walkable. If you're hoping to travel a further distance between neighborhoods, Lyon does have a good public transportation system.
There are plenty of excellent restaurants in Lyon. Most display their menus outside and the prices include service and tap water. You aren't expected to tip unless the service is particularly phenomenal. This is particularly true in the budget restaurants. Like elsewhere in France, you'll typically find the best deal at lunchtime in most restaurants, when there are often "specials" available. Dinner is generally more expensive.
Fourviere hill is known as the "hill that prays" because it has a large number of churches throughout it. Old Lyon is the sight of much historic architecture, and Presqu'ile makes up the true heart of the city. Croix-Rousse has unique architecture and historically was home to many of the silk workers. Confluence is an evolving neighborhood that is transitioning into a very contemporary area. Part-Dieu is the main business district, and Brotteaux is the wealthiest area.
The city also plays host to several great festivals including, most famously, the Festival of Lights in December. There is also the Nuits de Fourviere festival between June and August and Nuits sonores is centered around electronic music and takes place in May.
The city itself has many sights including Fourviere basilica, Saint Jean cathedral, Musees Gadagne, Parc de la Tete d'Or, Saint Bruno church, and Parc de Gerland. Many of the sights are concentrated in Old Lyon, and the area is generally quite compact and walkable. If you're hoping to travel a further distance between neighborhoods, Lyon does have a good public transportation system.
There are plenty of excellent restaurants in Lyon. Most display their menus outside and the prices include service and tap water. You aren't expected to tip unless the service is particularly phenomenal. This is particularly true in the budget restaurants. Like elsewhere in France, you'll typically find the best deal at lunchtime in most restaurants, when there are often "specials" available. Dinner is generally more expensive.
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Local Events
By backpackguru
on Nov 18, 2011 in Entertainment
If you want to do something a little off the beaten path from what the typical tourist might do, pick up one of the weekly magazines that announce ongoing events. There are two magazines, either Le Petit Bulletin, which is free and found at cinemas, theaters, among other sites, and the Lyon Poche, which is provides an online listing of events.
You may have to reserve tickets ahead of time depending on the venue, so do plan ahead. Some venues may even sell out months in advance if it's a top selling act.
You may have to reserve tickets ahead of time depending on the venue, so do plan ahead. Some venues may even sell out months in advance if it's a top selling act.
Marseille
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 85.41 |
| Accommodation1 | € 44.52 |
| Food2 | € 21.74 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 25.97 |
| Entertainment1 | € 24.26 |
| Alcohol2 | € 12.05 |
Marseille is the second largest city in France and is the largest Mediterranean port in the region. For visitors, Marseille offers and authentic glimpse at France. It has many colorful markets, natural beauty such as the Calanques with its large, beautiful cliffs, and the old harbor area, which offers a glimpse at the areas working class history.
Sights worth visiting in the area include Notre Dame de la Garde, which is a large church that overlooks the city, le Cours Julien and la plaine, an area with bookstores, cafes, and fountains that is an enjoyable place to relax and people watch, la Corniche, which is a walkway just beside the sea, and Parc Borely, a large, nice park that is a great place to pass some time.
Marseille has a wonderful nightlife year around, and there are also some great cultural events that take place throughout the year. The festival Avec le Temps is in the spring and showcases French music and art. La Fete Bleue, or the Blue Festival, has many shows and concerts centered around the color blue. Marsatac is another popular music festival and La Fiesta Des Suds highlights music from around the world.
Given its close proximity to the ocean, food in Marseille is focused around seafood. You will find some excellent fish dishes, with two famous local specialties being the fish broth "bouillabaisse" and aioli, which is a garlic sauce served over vegetables and dried cod. If you're looking for budget options, you're most likely to find them at kebab restaurants near the Canebiere. Other options are in the Cours Belsunce area.
You'll find some great budget accommodation options around town including hostels and cheap or discount hotels. There are also some chain hotels in town that are more of a splurge option, but are a great, reliable, choice if you're looking for comforts you can depend on.
Sights worth visiting in the area include Notre Dame de la Garde, which is a large church that overlooks the city, le Cours Julien and la plaine, an area with bookstores, cafes, and fountains that is an enjoyable place to relax and people watch, la Corniche, which is a walkway just beside the sea, and Parc Borely, a large, nice park that is a great place to pass some time.
Marseille has a wonderful nightlife year around, and there are also some great cultural events that take place throughout the year. The festival Avec le Temps is in the spring and showcases French music and art. La Fete Bleue, or the Blue Festival, has many shows and concerts centered around the color blue. Marsatac is another popular music festival and La Fiesta Des Suds highlights music from around the world.
Given its close proximity to the ocean, food in Marseille is focused around seafood. You will find some excellent fish dishes, with two famous local specialties being the fish broth "bouillabaisse" and aioli, which is a garlic sauce served over vegetables and dried cod. If you're looking for budget options, you're most likely to find them at kebab restaurants near the Canebiere. Other options are in the Cours Belsunce area.
You'll find some great budget accommodation options around town including hostels and cheap or discount hotels. There are also some chain hotels in town that are more of a splurge option, but are a great, reliable, choice if you're looking for comforts you can depend on.
Bordeaux
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 92.11 |
| Accommodation1 | € 48.00 |
| Food2 | € 36.36 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 12.34 |
| Entertainment1 | € 6.31 |
| Alcohol2 | € 20.66 |
Bordeaux is the place to go for fine wines. It's a very mellow, cultural city where you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a quaint cafe or restaurant without being rushed. The city is the capital of Gironde, and the entire metropolitan area has over one million residents. The city also has a rather large and vibrant university. The large student population means there is no shortage of opportunities to see shows, hear music, or visit a museum. The city is located on the banks of the Garonne, and if you want to get down by the water, head to Les Quais. Here you can enjoy a walk along the shore through some nice neighborhoods. For a more in depth look at the area's history, or to interact with the students in the area, head to the neighborhood of La Victoire and for the best shopping in town, head to The Pedestrian Center.
Bordeaux is both a relaxed city, but also very tolerant and liberal. There is a very strong artistic vibe in the city, and, due to it's history of English rule, there is an English flair to the area.
As a larger city, Bordeaux has a decent public transportation system. As a tourist, however, you can spend most of your time walking as most of the sights are concentrated in the compact downtown area. There is even a substantial area that is pedestrian only. Driving is not recommended as traffic is quite bad and parking can be incredibly expensive.
Dining in Bordeaux is an experience in and of itself. There are no shortage of restaurants, many of the French, but there is also a decent representation of Asian, Middle Eastern, or African options. If you're looking for great French food there are restaurant options that offer samplings from all over the country. It truly is a delight for food lovers, and it is worth the splurge to get a taste of the regions best specialties.
Bordeaux is both a relaxed city, but also very tolerant and liberal. There is a very strong artistic vibe in the city, and, due to it's history of English rule, there is an English flair to the area.
As a larger city, Bordeaux has a decent public transportation system. As a tourist, however, you can spend most of your time walking as most of the sights are concentrated in the compact downtown area. There is even a substantial area that is pedestrian only. Driving is not recommended as traffic is quite bad and parking can be incredibly expensive.
Dining in Bordeaux is an experience in and of itself. There are no shortage of restaurants, many of the French, but there is also a decent representation of Asian, Middle Eastern, or African options. If you're looking for great French food there are restaurant options that offer samplings from all over the country. It truly is a delight for food lovers, and it is worth the splurge to get a taste of the regions best specialties.
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Soccer
By backpackguru
on Nov 18, 2011 in Entertainment
If you're a sports fan, Bordeaux is a great place to catch a soccer game. the F.C. Girondins are one of the best teams in France, and the games are taken very seriously by locals. You can usually buy some tickets before the game at the ticket office, 'Place Johnston', at the South Western corner of the stadium. If they're playing a rival, the tickets might sell out, but generally they are available. Ticket prices can vary dramatically, costing anywhere from 9 euros to 80 euros depending on the game and the seats.
Le Havre
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 83.01 |
| Accommodation1 | € 51.74 |
| Food2 | € 24.97 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 7.32 |
| Entertainment1 | € 10.54 |
| Alcohol2 | € 10.93 |
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Things to Do
By backpackguru
on Oct 31, 2011
There are plenty of interesting things to do in Le Havre. The best place to get a view of the city is to climb the tower of Hotel de Ville. It's beautiful. Head over to see St. Joseph's Church as well. A great neighborhood to walk through is the residential area, Ste.Adresse. It's upscale and overlooks the beautiful bay. Head over to the beach if the weather is nice, or grab a bike to explore even further. There's also an interesting park in town "forêt de Montgeon" and a garden, Les jardins suspendus. Both are worth the effort.
La Rochelle
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 93.06 |
| Accommodation1 | € 54.99 |
| Food2 | € 28.32 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 14.23 |
| Entertainment1 | € 10.54 |
| Alcohol2 | € 12.83 |
La Rochelle is a lovely French city in the province of Charente-Maritime. You can easily explore the city of foot, or you can rent a bike through a service called les velos jaunes. There are stations around town where you can initiate the process. There is also a decent network of buses that can take you further distances. To reach the nearby islands or Fort Boyard you can pick up a ferry at Vieux Port. Boats also depart from Vieux Port and head directly to Port des Minimes.
The most interesting and scenic part of La Rochelle is the Old Port area, called Vieux Port. The are has a very Mediterranean atmosphere as the historic buildings have been constructed with pale stones and the streets are narrow and cobblestone. In the Old Port area make sure you visit the three towers, Tour Saint Nicolas, Tour de la Chaine and Tour de la Lanterne. These three towers guard the harbor area as they have since medieval times. It is possible to climb to the top and they offer a good view of the area.
The city also has a lovely aquarium that you can easily reach from the harbor. It's a great activity if it's raining outside and you can easily spend several hours exploring the facility. Port des Minimes is also an interesting place to see some exotic and impressive boats.
You can't go to La Rochelle without trying some seafood, as the city is famous for it. There are many excellent restaurants around town, particularly in the Vieux Port area. Dishes such as charantais, or mussels in a cream and wine sauce are particularly good and popular. If you're on a tighter budget you can pick up some sandwiches or kebabs that Le Rif restaurants. It's reasonably priced and won't break your bank, although not nearly as interesting as the seafood options.
The most interesting and scenic part of La Rochelle is the Old Port area, called Vieux Port. The are has a very Mediterranean atmosphere as the historic buildings have been constructed with pale stones and the streets are narrow and cobblestone. In the Old Port area make sure you visit the three towers, Tour Saint Nicolas, Tour de la Chaine and Tour de la Lanterne. These three towers guard the harbor area as they have since medieval times. It is possible to climb to the top and they offer a good view of the area.
The city also has a lovely aquarium that you can easily reach from the harbor. It's a great activity if it's raining outside and you can easily spend several hours exploring the facility. Port des Minimes is also an interesting place to see some exotic and impressive boats.
You can't go to La Rochelle without trying some seafood, as the city is famous for it. There are many excellent restaurants around town, particularly in the Vieux Port area. Dishes such as charantais, or mussels in a cream and wine sauce are particularly good and popular. If you're on a tighter budget you can pick up some sandwiches or kebabs that Le Rif restaurants. It's reasonably priced and won't break your bank, although not nearly as interesting as the seafood options.
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The Old Port
By backpackguru
on Oct 31, 2011 in Entertainment
The oldest and most interesting part of La Rochelle is the Old Port area. It has narrow roads and very old buildings that are made from stone, giving them a Mediterranean feel. Some of the main sites in the area include the Three Towers, which are the Tour St. Nicolas, Tour de la Chaine and Tour de la Lanterne. The towers actual date back to medieval times are protected the harbor.
Toulon
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 92.58 |
| Accommodation1 | € 62.86 |
| Food2 | € 24.19 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 5.71 |
| Entertainment1 | € 10.67 |
| Alcohol2 | € 11.05 |
Located between Marseille and Nice, Toulon is in the western portion of the French Riviera and in the southeast of Provence. It's a wonderful year around destination and has a climate similar to that found elsewhere in the south of France. The summers can be quite hot and there are infrequent but sudden thunderstorms. The rainiest season is likely to be fall, which storms are more frequent. Winters are drier and cool, but rarely below freezing.
The city is split into a historic old town and a new town. The old town area has many of the historic buildings, impressive architecture, and narrow, wandering streets. It is north of the harbor and is pleasant to walk around. The harbor area also features a promenade that is lined with souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants specializing in fresh seafood. Other important sights in the old town area include the monumental clock, Tour de l'horloge, Saint Francois de Paule church, Saint Marie de la Seds Cathedral, the traditional markets along Cours Lafayette, and Place Puget.
The new town is north of the old town and has many of the city's museums. Some sights in the area worth visiting are the Navy Museum, the Museum of Tour Royale, the Boat-Museum, and the municipal library. South of the Mourillon quarter you'll find a few decent beaches but do expect them to be crowded, particularly during the summer months. Also take a ride on the cable car which runs to the Mont-Faron Hill.
Popular parks in the city are the Frederic Mistral Garden where you'll likely see young couples having their wedding photos made and Alexandre the 1st Garden where there are frequent concerts on Sundays, particularly during the summer months.
Some popular events include the annual festival, Jazz in Toulon and the famous Bastille Day festivities.
The city is split into a historic old town and a new town. The old town area has many of the historic buildings, impressive architecture, and narrow, wandering streets. It is north of the harbor and is pleasant to walk around. The harbor area also features a promenade that is lined with souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants specializing in fresh seafood. Other important sights in the old town area include the monumental clock, Tour de l'horloge, Saint Francois de Paule church, Saint Marie de la Seds Cathedral, the traditional markets along Cours Lafayette, and Place Puget.
The new town is north of the old town and has many of the city's museums. Some sights in the area worth visiting are the Navy Museum, the Museum of Tour Royale, the Boat-Museum, and the municipal library. South of the Mourillon quarter you'll find a few decent beaches but do expect them to be crowded, particularly during the summer months. Also take a ride on the cable car which runs to the Mont-Faron Hill.
Popular parks in the city are the Frederic Mistral Garden where you'll likely see young couples having their wedding photos made and Alexandre the 1st Garden where there are frequent concerts on Sundays, particularly during the summer months.
Some popular events include the annual festival, Jazz in Toulon and the famous Bastille Day festivities.
Avignon
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 89.92 |
| Accommodation1 | € 54.29 |
| Food2 | € 31.06 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 5.71 |
| Entertainment1 | € 6.86 |
| Alcohol2 | € 16.86 |
Cannes
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Average Daily Travel Cost (per person):
|
€ 108.79 |
| Accommodation1 | € 60.00 |
| Food2 | € 36.26 |
| Local Transportation1 | € 12.96 |
| Entertainment1 | € 24.19 |
| Alcohol2 | € 14.10 |
While Cannes was once little more than a small fishing village, today it is a popular, glamorous seaside town frequented by celebrities. Its the place to see and be seen, particularly during the Cannes Film Festival in the month of May. During this time the city comes alive with celebrities from all over the world. While Cannes has its share of exclusive clubs, bars and restaurants, there are alternatives for budget travelers, so don't shy away. Theres a beautiful area, Le Suquet, which is nice to visit with its cobblestone streets and stunning views. Its also fun to pass some time people watching by the marina. You never know who youll spot. At night, the city comes to life with casinos and luxurious restaurants and clubs that give the area a vibe of exclusivity.
Your best option for traveling around Cannes is to either walk or take a bus. There are taxis, which can be challenging to find, particularly during peak times. Its actually fun to walk as weather is usually quite comfortable and this is the best way to soak up the citys atmosphere.
Some of the top sights around town include the Old Town, with castle ruins, the Covered Market, which is a great place to grab a bite to eat, the port, where you can check out yachts that belong to the rich and famous, and the nearby beaches, most of rich are private and will set you back about thirty euros for a single days use. Iles de Lerins, the islands in the bay are also worth a visit. The smaller, St Honorat, has a monastery and ruins of a castle. The larger, Ste Marguerite, has a castle as well as restaurants and shops.
Food in Cannes, although delicious, is often very expensive. Particularly by the riverfront area you will find expensive restaurants of variable quality. If youre looking for good food that is not unreasonably overpriced head to the rue Meynadier in the Le Suquet area. Here you can enjoy a meal outdoors overlooking the town without breaking the bank.
Your best option for traveling around Cannes is to either walk or take a bus. There are taxis, which can be challenging to find, particularly during peak times. Its actually fun to walk as weather is usually quite comfortable and this is the best way to soak up the citys atmosphere.
Some of the top sights around town include the Old Town, with castle ruins, the Covered Market, which is a great place to grab a bite to eat, the port, where you can check out yachts that belong to the rich and famous, and the nearby beaches, most of rich are private and will set you back about thirty euros for a single days use. Iles de Lerins, the islands in the bay are also worth a visit. The smaller, St Honorat, has a monastery and ruins of a castle. The larger, Ste Marguerite, has a castle as well as restaurants and shops.
Food in Cannes, although delicious, is often very expensive. Particularly by the riverfront area you will find expensive restaurants of variable quality. If youre looking for good food that is not unreasonably overpriced head to the rue Meynadier in the Le Suquet area. Here you can enjoy a meal outdoors overlooking the town without breaking the bank.
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