France on a Budget: Best Free and Affordable Attractions

You don’t need to go to France to have a luxurious escape with a huge price tag. In fact, most of the country’s most charming towns and scenic spots have unforgettable experiences with little to no cost. There is just so much to see without spending a fortune from historic villages to breathtaking coastal views. If you are thinking of choosing your next destination and you don’t want to break the bank, take your France visa from Dubai to enjoy the budget friendly beauty of the world.

Paris and the Riviera don’t take up all of France. Small towns, rich in history, culture and natural beauty are hidden throughout the countryside and coast and all are accessible to travellers on a budget. These destinations have value without sacrificing experience if you want to hike, stroll through local markets or explore medieval streets. Let’s take a look at some of the eight pleasingly affordable places in France that are well worth going.

Here are the Top Low-Cost Destinations and Hidden Gems across France

Cassis

Cassis is another quaint beach town, it’s famous for its bustling harbour and calanques, which are natural inlets.  Without spending a cent you can enjoy free walks along the cliffs or just lounge at the beach. The scenery is peaceful and the snacks are available in local markets for little money. A laid back atmosphere with beautiful views, Casisis a great escape from the busier cities for those looking to simply relax and unwind.

Saint-Florent

Sitting on the northern coast of Corsica, Saint-Florent has seaside beauty without high end prices. Cafes and stone houses are surrounding its marina. It has a nearby beaches and old citadel to boot. Whether you’re taking a budget friendly boat ride or walking along the coast Saint Florent has charm with affordability in one serene setting.

Arras

Northern France’s Arras is a hidden treasure with a lot of historical beauty and Flemish style buildings. Moreover, town squares are also open to everyone. Luckily, the culture is easy to enjoy without spending a lot, with small entry fees to local museums and free outdoor events. Arras is a great place for budget conscious travellers due to the warm, welcoming vibe and affordable accommodations.

Blois

On the banks of the Blois River there is a charming mediaeval village. Tickets are needed for its famous château, but the town itself is a treasure to wander on foot. Blois has gardens and riverside views, cobbled alleys, public art and a royal experience without the royal cost. The local bakeries and shops are the charming addition to the place, where you can find affordable treat while exploring.

Cahors

Cahors is nestled in the loop of the Lot River in a mixture of history and environment. Its free to visit landmark is Pont Valentré, its iconic stone bridge. It is quiet exploration heaven with its medieval old town and peaceful river walks. Cahors is known for its wine but also has wallet friendly tastings for those who want to enjoy the local flavor.

Périgueux

Roman remains, local life and beautiful alleyways are all combined in Périgueux. It is a visual delight to walk through the town with historic sites and beautiful churches around every corner. Without breaking the budget, there are free events, open squares and lively markets. It is a great place to experience real French living while staying within your traveling limits.

Moret-sur-Loing

The serene mediaeval village of Loing, just a short drive from Paris, and Moret-sur-Loing were to affect the impressionist painters. As you walk around, the town’s old bridges, mills and half timbers houses are picture perfect. As a low cost escape from the city, the peaceful riverfront and calm atmosphere are what makes the place ideal. Moret-sur-Loing with its artistic legacy and scenic charm makes for a perfect relaxing day trip.

Marsannay-la-Côte

Marsannay-la-Côte is Burgundy, vineyards and rolling hills all around. They are famous for authentic and inexpensive wine tasting in this village. Besides wine, you can go on nature walks and drives through the countryside. The atmosphere is welcoming and quiet, there is nothing to do but slow down and enjoy the best of rural France without spending much.

Conclusion

There are a lot of hidden treasures in France that don’t demand a big budget. Here are some destinations where beauty and culture can be had cheaply, from coastal towns to wine country villages. Whatever your particular passion, France has something to suit you: historical architecture, scenic landscapes, village life at a relaxed pace. You don’t have to miss out on affordable travel in France, you just have to find a different, more authentic side of France.

If you are going to the UAE and planning a trip to France, make sure you begin your trip with France visa from Sharjah. Once you have your visa in hand, you are ready to go on the trip of a lifetime without going bankrupt. Here are some of these budget friendly French destinations which prove that you can travel, enjoy and connect with a country deeply without burning a hole in your pocket.