🔎 Recap
No time to ready everything? Here are 4 smart habits to adopt when travelling in France on a budget!
Make the most of student deals: Avantage Jeune train card, university trips, student associations, UCPA stays… there are plenty of budget-friendly options to explore.
Choose the right transport: Train, carpooling, or long-distance coach — pick the most practical and affordable solution depending on where you’re going.
Always compare prices: Platforms like Omio or Kayak help you spot the best travel options based on your budget and schedule.
Plan around school breaks: Autumn and spring holidays are great times to travel — cheaper than Christmas or February, and you’ll have more time to enjoy the ride.
Introduction
France has so much to offer: vibrant cities, sunny beaches, snow-capped mountains, and charming villages — there’s something for every taste!
We get it, your schedule might be packed with classes (right? 🙄), but with a little planning, you’ll definitely find time for a few weekend getaways.
Want to explore France without blowing your budget? Let’s go!
Where to go in France during your stay
Whether you’re into cities, nature, or seaside vibes, you’ll find plenty of exciting places to visit:
- The must-sees: Paris, of course, but also the Mont Saint-Michel or the medieval town of Carcassonne.
- Regions full of character: Brittany with its wild coastline and crêpes, the Basque Country between sea and mountains, or the Flanders region with its festive spirit and historic towns.
- Diverse landscapes: The Alps and the Pyrenees for mountain lovers, the French Riviera for some sunshine, or the Loire Valley for a castle-filled weekend.
And of course… the food 😋 Every region has its own specialties worth trying, from carbonade and beers in the North to galettes, crêpes and cider in Brittany, or escargots and coq au vin in Burgundy. Get ready for a full-on culinary adventure.
👉 Need inspiration? Check out our student travel guides across France.
Start planning your stay in France with the Student Hub 🙌
Getting around France on a budget
By train – with the SNCF Avantage Jeune card
The train is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between big cities. With the Avantage Jeune card (€49/year), you get 30% off all long-distance train tickets. It quickly pays for itself if you travel a few times during the year.
By carpool – with Blablacar
Blablacar is a go-to option for students in France. It’s cheaper than trains, often more flexible, and a great way to meet people — and practice your French on the road 😉
By coach – FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Blablacar Bus and Flixbus offer tickets starting from €5, which is perfect for tight budgets. They also reach more destinations than the train, especially in rural areas. Just keep in mind: the rides can be a bit longer!
Tips for budget-friendly travel
Join trips organized by your university or student associations
Look into group outings offered by your university or by associations like ESN France (Erasmus Student Network). They regularly organize affordable excursions for international students — a fun way to explore your region and meet others.
👉 Check out our directory of student associations that welcome international students in France.
Use Omio or Kayak to compare your options
Before you book, compare different travel modes and prices with platforms like Omio or Kayak. They help you quickly find the best choice based on your budget, destination, and time constraints.
Go on a group trip with UCPA
UCPA offers outdoor and cultural trips at student-friendly prices. Whether you’re up for a week of skiing in the Alps, surfing on the Atlantic coast, or a hiking weekend — it’s a great way to experience France differently.
It’s also a great way to meet people! Group activities make it easy to connect and bond with others.
Conclusion
You won’t get bored during your year in France — there’s so much to see, try, and experience. And with a little planning, you can really make the most of it without breaking the bank.
So, start building your travel bucket list, rally a few friends… and get ready to explore France! And if you come across a cool tip or favorite destination, don’t forget to share it with the community 😊
