France Hotels and Hostels

France is high on most people's travel wish list, and it's not hard to realize why. It can be a very expensive destination, particularly if you plan to spend a lot of time in Paris or any of the other popular destinations throughout the country. It's well worth it though and there are several great tips you can use to save some money.
You'll find any kind of accommodation you might desire in France. It's very popular to rent a "gites ruraux," or holiday cottage to spend your vacation. They can be rented on a weekly basis and come complete with a kitchen so you can relax and enjoy making some of your own meals.

Finding the Best Prices

While France can be an expensive destination, there are a variety of strategies you can use to save some money. The typical strategies here apply. Travel in the low season, consider booking a package deal, and research, research, research.
France is also a wonderful place to find a cottage or apartment to sublet. In Paris, a lot of young couples will rent an affordable room out of their apartment. If you're in rural areas, consider staying in a gites ruraux which is a cottage that provides you with a built in kitchen. Cooking your own meals will take you far in France, and you'll enjoy going to local market and choosing fresh produce. It can really bring the country to life for you.

Types of Accommodation

There are a wide range of accommodation types throughout France. In addition to the gites ruraux, described above, you can find bed and breakfasts throughout the country. In French, these are referred to as "chambre d'hote." Legally, these facilities are required to include breakfast in their advertised price. Unlike gites ruraux, which are usually rented on a weekly basis, bed and breakfasts are available on a nightly basis.
There are hotels throughout the country as well. They are rated on a scale from one star to four stars. Often a one star hotel is comparable in price to two dorm beds in a hostel. Keep this in mind when you're deciding what type of facility to stay at.
In rural areas in France you can refer to Gites de France, an organization that rates rural accommodation throughout the country. It's a great resource for comparison shopping.
If you're interested in hiking there are a range of sleeping options in France. You can find camping facilities throughout the country of variable quality. Alternatively, you could stay at Gites d'etape, which are overnight huts in the mountains. They're an affordable option, but they are quite basic and you generally get what you pay for.