You’ll notice very quickly once you arrive how the French café culture and wine culture go hand in hand. It’s true: the French love drinking wine! So even if your budget is small and limited, there are plenty of ways you can revel in the French capital of wine, Bordeaux, without entirely breaking your wallet.

While we wouldn’t necessarily don it a “super cheap” destination, you’ll soon find out there are many thrifty ways to experience the historical glamour and gastronomy Bordeaux and its surrounding regions have to offer.

More advice for visiting France
• 5 Fun activities in Bordeaux beyond wine
• How to find cheap hotels in France
• 50 Ways to save on your trip to France

Bordeaux budget travel guide

While you may know Bordeaux solely for its venerated wine culture, we have good news for you: wine is only the first of many reasons why people are coming to explore this southwestern region.

Believe it or not, Bordeaux wasn’t always the cosmopolitan hotspot it is nowadays. It wasn’t until 2007, when the city of Bordeaux became classified as the world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage site. While parts of the city still embody antediluvian grime, the urban transformation that took place ten years ago has embraced the city’s true grit and mélange of ancient architecture, which stems back from the age of Enlightenment.

According to UNESCO, Bordeaux, also known as Port of the Moon for its crescent-shaped contour, “represents the success of philosophers who wanted to make towns into melting pots of humanism, universality, and culture.” Oui, c’est vrai (Yes, it’s true); Bordeaux is all of that and more, and you can enjoy it even if your budget is limited!

A glass of wine perhaps? The answer is always “oui” in Bordeaux. Photo: Chris.

When to go to Bordeaux

Two words for Cheapos: Off season! If you like to maximize your wallet, then you probably already know the benefits of off-season travel. On the plus side, the off-season usually means fewer crowds and fewer lines. The off-season in Bordeaux takes place during the spring or early autumn; however, if you’re planning your trip in the winter, December can be a very jolly time of year to visit the Port of the Moon… just be prepared for many of the vineyards to be closed.

Getting there cheaply

If you plan on directly traveling to Bordeaux from overseas, I highly recommend flying into one of Paris’s two main airports, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Thanks to new high-speed train service, the LGV Sud Europe Atlantique, traveling to this wine paradise has never been faster! In just two hours, you can hop aboard a train at Paris’s Gare Montparnasse and arrive in Bordeaux for a full day of Dionysian delights.

If you book your ticket even just a week in advance during the off-season, you can get to Bordeaux via train for prices as low as €16 during the week and €19 during the weekend. That’s a bargain.

Meandering Bordeaux’s historic city center

France is one of those special countries where no matter how large or small the city, exploring by foot is always a pleasurable option. When it comes to Bordeaux, this rule of thumb speaks volumes! As aforementioned, Bordeaux boasts a broad and impressive range of architectural styles, and after Paris has more protected buildings than any other city in France. At times you’ll feel like you’re in a small village, other times in a regal urban sprawl saturated with Parisian joie de vivre.

If you like having a handheld map like me, head to the Office of Tourism where you’ll find a plethora of resourceful brochures and handouts.

Bordeaux CityPass

If you want the biggest bang for your buck, you may consider buying a Bordeaux CityPass, which starts at €29 for a 24-hour pass. This includes a walking tour, bus tour, admission to the Pey-Berland Tower, access to the majority of museums, including La Cité du Vin (if you go before noon), free access to all of Bordeaux’s public transport network, and many other discounts, the list goes on! If you were to pay for all of these separately, it would add up to €56, so even if you only end up at a few of these attractions, the CityPass could help you save a few euros.

Top Bordeaux activities

Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror
Located along the banks of the Garonne River, this elegant square, emblematic landmark and optical illusion is a must-see for every visitor.

Pont de Pierre 
The first bridge built over the Garonne River in Bordeaux, it was planned and designed under the orders of Napoléon Bonaparte I. Until 1965, this bridge was the only one connecting the left and right banks.

Bordeaux Cathedral (St. Andrew’s Cathedral)
Even though it might not be as impressive as other French churches, this beautiful cathedral is an architectural treasure for Bordeaux. Entry: €2.

Les Chartrons
This lovely, village-esque district near the Bassins à Flot is bustling with wineries, restaurants, cultural centers and boutiques.

Darwin 
An alternative urban space with an eco-friendly philosophy housed in former military warehouses, Darwin is a cool kids’ paradise, full of workshops, small businesses and organizations, and cafes.

Raise a glass at the brand-new La Cité du Vin. Photo: patrick.

Wine, anyone? Saving on Bordeaux’s wine culture

Best bargain for wine lovers

Bordeaux’s École du Vin (3 Cours du 30 Juillet), just across from the Office of Tourism in the “Golden Triangle”, is where your wildest, wine-iest dreams can come true… without spending every last euro in your wallet. This fine institution — not to be confused with the Maison à Vin, also located near the Office of Tourism — gives wine enthusiasts one of the most affordable ways of tasting a wide variety of wines at their chic, yet unpretentious wine bar.

And unlike the overpriced full & half-day vineyard tours, the pours here are very generous. For €2-5, you can drink full glasses of some of the region’s finest wines and learn all there is to know about it. The servers are properly trained sommeliers, so don’t be shy or suspicious when it comes to their knowledge of wine.

This bar additionally offers a few different cheeseboards that cost around €9 and like the wine pours, are generous in portion, so this could be a great way to substitute a picnic outdoors.

Best spot for history buffs

La Cité Du Vin (134 Quai de Bacalan), Bordeaux’s newest architectural masterpiece, a glimmering structure redefining the up-and-coming Bassins à Flots district, opened its doors in June of 2016. If you love wine (likely) and appreciate history (probably), this museum is chock-full of high-tech exhibits, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the winemaking process, as well as the long-established history of wine culture in France.

While the €20 entrance fee might deter Cheapos, it might be worth it if you end up visiting Bordeaux during the colder months or run into some unfortunate weather.

Bonus tip: Your admission also includes a glass of wine to be enjoyed on the 8th-floor wine bar, where you can equally relish one of the best panoramic views of Bordeaux!

Cheap eats in Bordeaux

Chez Pompon
4 cours de Verdun

Right near the Jardin Public, this modish, yet cozy restaurant has a wonderful terrace and dining space. Here you can enjoy an Entrée and Plat (appetizer & main dish) or a Plat and Dessert for €14, while glasses of wine will only set you back only €2-5. If you’re a party of two, you can buy a nice bottle of wine for €10-16! The restaurant’s elegant simplicity is found in its rotating menu of delicious, regional meals that highlight the flavors of Bordeaux.

Marché des Capucins
Place des Capucins

Not far from the Saint-Jean train station, the emblematic Marché des Capucins food market, which recently underwent a face-lift of sorts, is a great place to grub and people watch all at once. Situated in the Saint-Michel district, it’s become a trendy hangout spot teeming with cafés, cheap local eateries, and produce and seafood vendors selling some of the Atlantic coast’s best oysters! This place is full of locals, especially Bordeaux’s laidback student population, so if you’re wanting to experience something authentic and inexpensive, make this one of your first stops of the day.

The market is open Tuesday-Friday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays & Sundays from 5:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Saint-Émilion: For true oenophiles

You don’t have to take a pricey winery bus tour to enjoy the famous wines of Bordeaux. Instead, you can plan a day trip to the renowned wine village of Saint-Emilion. It’s located only 35 minutes by train from Bordeaux and the price is right — a round-trip train ticket will cost you €18.

Read more about how to visit Saint-Émilion on a budget.

The breakfast room at Hostel 20 in Bordeaux.

Best Cheap Hotels in Bordeaux

Ready to explore the southwest of France? Sleep for cheap at our favorite budget hotels.

You’ll find dorms rooms for less than €30 at Hostel 20 Bordeaux. For something stylish, spend the night at ibis Styles Bordeaux Mériadeck or stay in the heart of the city at Hotel Bleu de Mer.

Search more than 900 hotels, hostels & apartments in Bordeaux

Have you been to Bordeaux? Tell us how you were able to save money!

The post Bordeaux Travel Guide: Budget tips for visiting Bordeaux appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Some call Provence the quintessence of France: the grand intersection of fine wine, buzzing culture, delectable food, and wondrous nature. Though the region may be rich in its fruits, there are plenty of ways to experience all of its grandeur without being rich yourself — financially that is.

How to maximize your euros in Provence

1. Wine: Diversify your palate

Let’s be honest. One cannot deny the prestigious reputations of appellations like Châteauneuf du Pape or Coteaux d’Aix en Provence; they are vanguards of French viticulture, but their fame is not unparalleled to some of the lesser-known appellations of Provence. You’ll be happy to know that once you arrive, your preconceived notion of wine will grow exponentially — and at a price accessible for all budgets.

Traveling during the summer? Venture to the Languedoc capital of Provence, Montpellier, for their Estivales night markets occurring every Thursday evening between July 6th and August 31st (except the 13th). €5 will buy you two glasses of local wine and a chance to immerse yourself with the local esprit de corps, music and various food vendors abounding. What’s more, every Friday the association, Les Coteaux de Languedoc, offers two free oenology courses, however, spots are limited so be sure to grab yours in advance.

If you’re looking to visit a vineyard off the beaten track, I would highly recommend the idyllic Château Mourgues du Grès: a family-run estate based on organic growing principles, and offering visitors a truly unique nature-oriented experience.  It won’t surprise you their motto is, “Sine Sole Nihil” (Nothing Without Sun).

2. Culture: Festivals, markets, museums, galore!

With no shortage of cultural hotspots, Provence has something for everyone anywhere you go. Most museums offer reduced-price tickets for families as well as those under 26.

In Arles, students can enjoy the recently finished Fondation Vincent Van Gogh, which hosts an impressive array of exhibitions, in addition to famous paintings by the artist himself, for only €4!

In Marseille, you definitely won’t want to pass up the renowned MUCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, a 10 to 15-minute walk from the main train station, perched on the edge of the sea. For just €9.50, skip the line to the museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions, plus gain access to the J4 building and Fort Saint-Jean. Even if you’re not big on history, the building’s serene location and juxtaposing architecture are reason enough to make the trek.

While you may have heard of the legendary Festival d’Avignon, the annual performing arts festival (and largest festival in France), or the world-class, Cannes Film Festival on the French Riviera, Provence nurtures an eclectic roster of cultural options and events throughout the year for budgets big and small. For all the cinephiles out there, be sure to check out the ultra-hip cinema, Utopia, in Avignon where a matinée will set you back at €4 — plus, it sits adjacent to the monumental Palais des Papes!

Insider’s Tip: Local newspapers and public bulletin boards often show all the happenings of the town, so keep an eye out for artistic posters and flyers. Also, if you’re keen on checking out the Festival d’Arles, come during the opening week and situate yourself on a terrace as many performers come around, passing out special invitations.

Market day in Avignon. Photo: Julian

3. Food: Indulge your taste buds at local markets

When it comes to food, the best way to stretch your wallet is heading to one of the many markets Provence hosts. Not only are you saving money, but you’re also engaging with the local community and gourmandizing the French way. Get your foodie and culture fix in one by gathering your favorite picnic fare, trying all the free samples, all the while absorbing the vibrant and fragrant atmosphere.

Saint Rémy de Provence – Wednesdays and Saturdays 8h-13h
Highlights: Not far from the fairytale town, Les Baux de Provence, making it a great place to gather picnic fare before meandering the neighboring towns!

Aix-en-Provence – Wednesdays and Sundays 8h-13
Highlights: Christmas market in December!

Avignon – Tuesdays – Sundays
Highlights: The gateway to Provence and capital of Vaucluse, Avignon brims with gothic architecture and medieval ramparts, notably visible from the prodigious Palais des Papes, home of the Roman Catholic Church during the 14th century. From full-blown farmers markets to flower markets and flea markets, you’ll find plenty of goodies sold at affordable prices.

Carpentras – Fridays
Highlights: One of the oldest markets in France, situated on a bed of rich agriculture, Carpentras is famous for their strawberries in the spring and truffles in the winter.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue – Thursdays – Sundays
Highlights: One of the best brocantes (antiques) market in the south of France!

A peaceful scene at Pont du Gard. Photo: Gerard

4. Nature: Enliven your senses

Though Provence’s terrain is more arid-leaning, it is far from looking bereft of lush vegetation. Known for its “meso-climates,” and undulating limestone mountain ranges, it’s no wonder Provence attracts famous celebrities and curious travelers alike.

To visit Provence and not bask in its bucolic opulence — engaging in activities like hiking, bicycling, swimming, or even rock climbing — would be a shame, and to some, complete and utter sacrilege! For the budget traveler, Provence offers one of the most diverse regions for lovers of the outdoors.

Here are some favorites:

Les Calanques: for a stunning seaside hike, swim, and/or climb

Pont du Gard: for a float down the river Gard and a remarkable example of Roman architecture

Gorge du Verdon: for a mystical hike, swim, and/or climb amidst the deepest gorge in France

Les Alpilles: for a plethora of scenic viewpoints overlooking quintessential Provençal towns, including Luberon, Baux de Provence, and Tarascon among others

Soak in Provence at Hôtel et Jardin in Avignon.

5. Travel & Lodging: Resting your head and getting from A to B

Coming from Paris? Check out Ouigo, an affordable subsidiary of SNCF (France’s national train line), covering a variety of spots in the Provence-Alpes-Côtes d’Azur (PACA) region. Tickets can be as low as €10 one way, just be sure to book at least two weeks in advance.

Related: How to find cheap tickets on France’s high-speed trains

If you’re flying in, you have even more options. The biggest airport is located in Marseille; however, many of the budget airlines like Ryanair and Easyjet fly into Nîmes, Nice, and Montpellier from other French and European and Northern African locales.

Provence is loaded with affordable accommodations whether you’re looking for a rural retreat with a pool or a cozy hotel room in the heart of the city center. If you’re headed to Aix-en-Provence, you can check in at these cheap and charming hotels. or book a room at the best budget hotels in Avignonon.

Looking for more options? Search thousands of hotels and vacation apartments in Provence.

The post Provence Budget Tips: A moveable feast minus the extravagant costs appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Despite the wine region’s expensive reputation, there are several ways Cheapos can visit Saint-Émilion without emptying their bank account.

Related: Visiting Bordeaux, France without breaking the bank

Getting to Saint-Émilion

If you’re staying in Bordeaux, it’s easy to plan a day trip to the renowned wine village of Saint-Emilion. A train ride is only 35 minutes from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion. A return train ticket will cost you €18, and that’s much cheaper than opting for an expensive bus tour of the wine region. Search for train tickets on SNCF.

Arriving in Saint-Émilion

Here you can embark on a self-guided tour and explore the picturesque village on your own terms. When you arrive, head to the Office of Tourism where a very friendly and multi-lingual staff awaits you. They will happily provide you with free maps, brochures, and referrals to local vineyard tours depending on your timeframe and budget.

Wine tours in Saint-Émilion

Most local vineyards offer one-hour tours for about €12-14, which includes a tasting following the tour of the chateau and/or vineyard. It may be wise to take a sneak peak of Saint-Emilion’s tourism guide for information on chateaus, tastings, and other things to do during your visit.

Exploring Saint-Émilion

While you’re snaking your way through the enchanting wine village, draped in rustic antiquity and dappled with ‘Moulin Rouge’ geraniums, try to scope out a couple wine shops off the beaten path. Let yourself get carried away and go down those tiny alleys that beckon your curiosity. The town is only so big after all, so getting lost may be the serendipitous moment you’ve been seeking after all!

There’s no need to worry about a language barrier as Saint-Emilion is fueled by its thriving tourism, so no matter what shop you end up entering, there will always be someone you can communicate with on all things-wine and otherwise.

Related: 22 French phrases every traveler should know

You’ll love strolling through the narrow streets of Saint-Émilion.

Once you set your heart on a shop, enter it and don’t look back. This is your opportunity to have your own little private tasting, as long as you intend on buying at least one bottle. This is what my friends and I did before getting some made-to-order baguette sandwiches at the local boulangerie for lunch. You’ll save a lot of money that way. After several gratis tastings, we finally agreed on two wines we all enjoyed: one, which we opened to enjoy during our picnic lunch and the other for that evening.

Wines that would cost a fortune in the U.S. will only cost you €10-20 a bottle. Of course, you can spend much more than that if you’d like, but at €12, you’ll have an excellent bottle of wine to accompany your afternoon lunch or evening meal. We’ll drink to that!

We love the rustic charm of the rooms at La Maison Colline.

Cheap hotels in Saint-Émilion

If you don’t want to take a day trip from Bordeaux, there are several well-priced accommodations for budget travelers in Saint-Émilion. While the high-end hotels can cost you upwards of $200 per night, you can find comfy rooms for well under $100 if you stick to small, independent guesthouses and hotels.

Here are a few picks from our guide:

La Maison Colline

Double rooms from $87

Looking for that perfect little French guesthouse that you’ve always dreamed about? This friendly spot might just fit the bill. An ancient stone house with three exquisitely designed rooms, the guesthouse was completely renovated in 2015. Music lovers will enjoy the grand piano in the living room! Read more.

Les Chambres d’Ovaline

Economy double room from $83

With an outdoor terrace and garden, this cozy guesthouse is a treat for Cheapos looking for an incredible location. It’s smack dab in the center of historic Saint-Émilion. Read more.

ibis Bordeaux Saint Emilion

Double rooms from $74

Located a few miles outside of the city center, this popular budget chain offers rooms with private bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. It also has free parking, so it’s a good option if you’re renting a car to explore Bordeaux. Read more.

Browse and book 40 hotels in Saint Emilion

The entrance to the affordable hotel Les Logis du Roy.

The post Saint Emilion: Exploring a charming wine village on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But all too often, France’s northern region, such as Hauts-de-France (that covers the Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardy regions), gets overlooked and underestimated.

The north is commonly pigeonholed into bloated typecasts  — “dismal weather”, “underwhelming landscapes”, “a presiding culture of country folk who speak a weird dialect” — but these sweeping generalizations do not truly depict what these regions has to offer.

Every country has its hidden gems, and in terms of France, I believe the North is one of them. If you are willing to go off the beaten track and experience a different kind of “authentic”, with half the amount of tourists — and for a fraction of the price — then look no further than Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardy!

More tips for France
• 50 Tips for saving on your trip to France
• How to find cheap hotels in France

North of France budget travel highlights

Here are 10 highlights, in no particular order, of the North of France for budget travelers.

The region of Nord-Pas de Calais

Over the past decade, this region has been completely revamped with a budding arts and culture scene, namely in Lille, Lens, and Arras.

1. Discover the “L’île de Lille” the capital of Nord-Pas de Calais

Lille epitomizes the words we all hesitate to use when describing a treasured place, but likely say countless of times when reminiscing about it… “cute”, “adorable”, and yes, even a little “kooky.” Known as Paris’s “spunky relative” to some, Lille is the heart of French Flanders, where palettes of rustic red and glistening gold accentuate the iconic works of Flemish architecture, and in other ways, the glowing hearts of the local Lillois.

Between its historic old-town, Vieux Lille, the unparalleled warmth of its citizens, and the myriad manifestations of outré ‘Ch’ti’ culture, the words: cute, adorable, and kooky seem suitable after all.

But let’s not forget a keyword: affordable. Yes, the truth is, Lille offers a plethora of thrills and cheap accommodations that will cost you much less than its Parisian counterpart.

More travel tips:

Search more than 700 hotels in Nord-Pas Calais

A Budget travel guide to Lille, France

A local bar in Lille piles up the shells from mussels outside their door. Photo: Damien P.

2. Experience Lille’s mountain of moules

While you’re weaving through the flea market, wafts of the traditional “Braderie” meal, les moules frites (mussels and french fries) will captivate your senses and only cost you a handful of euros.

Eventually, you’ll come across one of the Braderie’s quintessential traditions: restaurants competing against one another to see who can build the highest mountain of mussel shells. So don’t be surprised if every restaurant in the vicinity wants you to come and enjoy some moules!

3. Get your music fix for less

For all you indie music fans, add Lille to your list of incubators and underrated hot spots. Thanks to its ideal geographic location and budding student population, Lille and the region’s lesser-known purlieus — Arras and Tourcoing — offer a notable repertoire of concerts and festivals, at a much cheaper rate than London, Paris, or Brussels.

The A Gauche de la Lune collective conveniently lists (and sells tickets to) concerts in both Lille and Paris, which automatically emphasizes the price drop between the two. If you’re looking for a way to combine history and entertainment during the summertime, then whisk away in the majestic splendor of La Citadelle d’Arras, during the highly acclaimed Main Square Festival.

4. Discover France’s capital of beer

You wouldn’t believe the amount of beer that comes out of Northern France if we told you. So you should taste it for yourself!

Swap out overpriced and overcrowded wine tours in Bordeaux or the Loire Valley for an inexpensive beer excursion in the heart of French Flanders. Check out our guide to beer culture in Lille to ensure you’re hitting all the right spots.

Strolling through the Lille Christmas Market is always free! Photo: Niriel

5. Channel your inner Ch’ti at Lille’s Marché de Noël

Avoid the hullabaloo of Alsace during winter market season and revel in Lille’s snow globe charm at the annual Marché de Noël. Straddled across Rihour and La Grand Place – Lille’s former medieval market square – you’re bound to float back in time, all whilst sipping your large heaping of €3 vin chaud (mulled wine).

Admission is free, and it’s open this year through December 27th.

6. Tap into art history (for free!) with a modern twist

Swap out the lines and antiquity of the gargantuan Louvre in Paris and explore its hip new extension in Lens. Think of Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum; the Louvre-Lens might not have the same Renaissance effect for the old mining town, but Lens will surely leave you pleasantly surprised. Cheapos will love that museum admission is free!

7. Breathe in the coastal nature of the North

Its terrain might be relatively flat and the English Channel doesn’t quite compare to the Mediterranean or the Alps, however, the North of France does possess a lovely hiking trail.

The GR 120 embodies a different kind of magnificence. It reveals a modest beauty that underlines the perils of its past. As you walk along the coast, amidst the billowing dunes and windswept valleys, where tall grasses harmonize with the sea, a mystic tranquility overcomes you.

This “Grande Randonnée” (Great Walk) is bound to instill a newfound admiration into all of those whom dare to roam the outskirts of the unpretentious North.

Sitting high above the city, Laon Cathedral dates back to the 12th century! Photo: Frans

Picardy region

This region of France, located just north of Paris, houses some of the most prolific Gothic architecture of the 12th and 13th centuries. Picardy also exudes a medieval mysticism and neo-classical charm that gives visitors a true taste of France’s evolution.

The Paris-Beauvais Airport, where Ryanair and other budget airlines fly in and out of, is also situated in this region, making it a very feasible pit stop before moving on to your next destination.

Related: Discover more than 500 hotels in Picardy

8. Medieval mysticism in Laon

Enjoy the medieval aura of Laon, whose high vantage point magnifies the bucolic pastures below, and whose collection of historic buildings fill visitors with an eerie charm.

Similar to Lens, Laon has its own Parisian counterpart: Cathedral Notre-Dame de Laon (free, open daily 8:30 am to 6: 30 pm), which impressively stands as one of the earliest Gothic cathedrals in France. Visitors can explore the town’s old ramparts and gateways and the medieval palace without the phalanx of tourists.

Related: Find budget hotels in Laon, France

Soak in the quaint charm of the scenic Le quartier Saint Leu in Amiens. Guillaume

9. Amiens: Where an old city reflects small-town charm

Just a hop, skip away from Paris, Amiens reigns as the capital of Picardy and may just be one of the best bargains of your off-kilter tour of the North. Outside of housing the oldest and tallest Gothic-style cathedral in France, it exudes an abundance of historical and cultural charm.

In the Saint-Leu Quarter, frolic along the canals and enjoy the quaintness typical in a small French village. Relish the “floating gardens” of the magnificent park, the Hortillonnages, as you nibble on a macaron d’Amien or another local delight. Marvel at the works of the famous author, Jules Verne, at his old home-turned-museum (€3 entry fee).

Related: Search and book cheap hotels in Amiens

10. Meander through the fairytale village of Gerberoy

No visit to France would be complete without meandering through one of their numerous postcard villages. Gerberoy, which has officially made it on the list of “most picturesque villages in France,” located northeast of Amiens, illustrates the soft and whimsical hues of impressionistic paintings.

One may think it was the village — dotted with 17th and 18th-century cottages — that sprouted from the ground, rather than the multitude of gardens and flowers dressing the buildings and walkways. Bask in the gentle beauty of this fairy-tale village… and in the inexpensive prices!

Your tips for the North of France

Have you been to the North of France? Tell us your favorite places to go!

The post 10 Reasons to Visit the North of France for Budget Travelers appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

It is the capital of France’s Nord-Pas de Calais region but is better known as “The Capital des Flandres” due to its Flemish roots and quirky Ch’ti culture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a beer devotee, a shopping addict, or simply a curious traveler, Lille offers a niche for almost anyone, especially for those traveling on a budget!

More travel tips for France
• 50 Ways to save on your trip to France
• Tips for finding cheap hotels in France
• Paris: 7 favorite day trips and overnight getaways

Budget travel guide to Lille, France

Think of Lille as Paris’s spunky relative whose inner warmth, artsy mannerisms and hearty, flavorful cuisine makes up for the not-so-sunny weather. In other words, Lille has become an unquestionable candidate for France’s cultural underdog.

The Lille Christmas Market is a festive time to visit. Photo: photophilde

When to go

The truth is, Lille is a place you can visit any time of year without breaking your budget — and this isn’t always the case with other small cities in France. Because of its ideal geographic location, high-speed train services like TGV, Eurostar, and Thalys offer cheap train tickets to and from Lille as low as €9 if you book in advance!

With this being said, it’s important to note that the beginning of September, known as “la rentrée” in France is one of Lille’s busiest times of the year, with the following month, October, coming in second, and December, coming in third. Between La Grande Braderie de Lille — Europe’s largest flea market, Lille3000 — an evolving artistic & cultural organization (that transpired after Lille was named European Capital of Culture in 2004), dedicated to exposing a wide spectrum of burgeoning innovations, artists, ideas, and projects on a local and international level, and Le Marché de Noël — Lille’s chocolate-box Christmas market, Lille sees most of its tourists during the autumn and winter months.

Getting there

What does Lille have that other small cities like Nantes, Angers, and Strasbourg lack? Well, let’s just begin with Lille’s accessibility — an urban tributary of sorts that smoothly segues into three European hubs in an hour and a half or less.

By Air

Although Lille has its own airport, Aéroport de Lille-Lesquin, it is more likely that you would arrive by train, bus, or car bearing in mind its convenient centricity to other neighboring cities. If you are planning on flying, however, many low-cost European airlines fly in and out of this airport, making long-distance travel a feasible option. Check CheapoSearch for the latest airfare prices.

If you are arriving by plane, there is a shuttle that drops you in the city center, departing every hour, which costs €8 for a single journey and €10 for a return. If you’re traveling in a group, you may consider buying a book of 10 tickets, which only costs €35. On the contrary, shuttles from the city center to the airport leave every half hour. For more information about flying and the Lille-Lesquin airport click here.

Arriving by TGV train at Lille Flandres station. Photo: Roel H.

By train

Lille has two train stations, Lille Flandres and Lille Europe. While the former is situated closer to the city center, the latter is less than 10 minutes away by foot, just across a small bridge.

The fastest way to get to Lille from neighboring cities is by train. Lille is a quick 35 minutes from Brussels, 60 minutes from Paris, and only 80 minutes from London.

Related: How to find cheap TGV trains tickets in France

By bus

If you’re a last-minute booker, the spontaneous type, or super tight on cash (and not short on time) you may choose to come by bus or car. But, let’s be honest, it’s always nice to know all your options, and Rome2Rio efficiently lists all the modes of transport possible from Point A to Point B.

Bus companies such as OuiBus and FlixBus offer the most routes at the cheapest rates — with the main caveat being time: they take more of it!

By rideshare

BlaBlaCar is great for the spontaneous type, especially if you’re traveling alone or in a pair, as drivers can post their routes and time of departure at any moment of the day. This option will usually get you to your destination faster than a bus, but it won’t guarantee certain luxuries a coach bus offers, such as free Wi-Fi, A/C, and a considerable degree of comfort. If you like to travel more authentically, however, we would highly recommend Blablacar as it allows you to directly integrate with other cultures and get some insider tips — if you’re brave enough to ask!

If you’re coming by BlaBlaCar, ask your driver if he or she can drop you off at or around one of the main train stations.

Getting around Lille

Walking

Lille is a walker’s paradise, so you’ll want to be sure to pack a good pair of shoes with you when planning your trip. Although there are a few museums and sites outside the city center that are worth visiting, Lille is small enough to be traversed and circumvented in one day.

Biking

If the weather is nice and you fancy biking, Lille also offers affordable city bikes, called V’Lille, which can be rented by the half hour with a base rate of €1.60. The first 30 minutes are free and every successive 30 minutes cost an additional euro.  Otherwise, there are several biking tours the city of Lille offers that you can book online here.

By metro

Depending on your luck and the time of year you plan on visiting, you may have to face a bit of rain, so be sure to pack an umbrella. If you are unlucky and you do have rain, don’t fret! Lille is home to the world’s first driverless metro system, which opened in 1983 and can take you to all the points you’ll want to visit.

Attractions and things to do in Lille

When you’re traveling on a dime, it’s best to know your options.  This way, you not only maximize your time but also capitalize on the money in your pocket. Fortunately for Cheapos, Lille offers plenty of frugal options for visitors traveling on a budget.

Lille City Pass

For those interested in maximizing your time and your money, we would recommend purchasing the Lille City Pass. It gives you access to 28 museums and historical sites, the Lille transport network (metro, tram, and bus), plus special benefits for shopping, nightlife, leisure, and dining out. 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour passes are available, starting at €25.

Our favorite museums and attractions in Lille

Palais des Beaux Arts-Lille
Place de la République
Recommended for the collection for fine arts & Antiquities.

La Piscine
23 Rue de l’Espérance (in Roubaix just outside of Lille)
Recommended for its unusual setting & Art Deco interior.

LaM – Lille Musée d’Art Modern, d’Art Contemporain, et d’Art Brut
1 allée du Musée
Recommended for its funky architecture and modern art.

Town Hall Belfry
Place Augustin-Laurent in the historic heart of Lille
Recommended for history with the best view.

Super cheapo attractions

If museums and historical sites aren’t your things, there is plenty of lollygagging and historic meandering you can do without waiting in long lines or paying entry fees.

Explore Old Town
Shop with your eyes and absorb the Flemish architecture of Vieux Lille.

Marché de Wazemmes
Wander through the Marché de Wazemmes that takes place every Wednesday and Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm and experience the lively spirit of this traditional flea market, selling everything from fruits and vegetables and ethnic dishes to furniture, electronics, and all sorts of tchotchkes.

La Grand Place
Explore the monuments of La Grand Place, the Lillois’ most ornate rendezvous square, including The Goddess statue and fountain, which stands as a memorial of the Austrian canon ball siege of 1792 and La Vieille Bourse, the old Stock Exchange building where you can dig through the past in both sight and smell. Just across from this prized jewel of Flemish architecture, stands another world-class site, the historic Opera de Lille, boasting neo-classical architecture and an eclectic range of performances spanning across multiple centuries.

Parc de la Citadelle
Take a stroll through Lille’s largest green space in Parc de la Citadelle, where you may recognize scenes from the 2013 Cannes Palm d’Or film, La Vie d’Adèle (Blue is the Warmest Colour), or come across Lille’s Zoo, with free entry to all!

La Gare Saint Sauveur
Check out La Gare Saint Sauveur (La Gare St. So for short) an upcycled train station turned multifunctional space, home to various art expos, concerts, parties, film projections, and its own bar-restaurant. If you’re looking for a hip place to take a mid-day break or have some libations come night, this is the place to be!

Eating and drinking for cheap: Beer & Bouffe

Lille may be close to Germany, but the beer and “bouffe” (French slang for food) scene isn’t quite the same. Let’s start with food. Given Lille’s northern locale you may have guessed their local fare is a bit heartier (and heavier) than their fellow southern citizens.

No trip to Lille is complete without diving into some Flemish cuisine, something that makes French Flanders stand apart from its neighboring regions. Most restaurants will offer some Flemish dishes, and you’ll know right away because these dishes aren’t the easiest to pronounce! Some of the main components of Flemish cuisine are beer, meat, cheese, raisins, prunes, brown sugar, and chicory.

Moules Frites is an item you’ll see on many menus in Lille. Photo: Frédérique V

Popular dishes in Lille

There is a lot of good food in Lille, but keep an eye out for these classic foods that capture the flavors of the region:

Flamiche aux Maroilles – a rich and creamy quiche, bursting with flavors of Flanders and northern France’s “infamous” & very pungent cheese

Potjevleesch – a white meat terrine sheathed in mousseline

Carbonnade Flammande – small chunks of braised beef slow-cooked in Flemish beer and sprinkled with gingerbread

Moules Frites – mussels and fries, the iconic dish served during La Grande Braderie, although you can find it at almost any restaurant

Our favorite restaurants that won’t break the bank

L’Arrière Pays
47 Rue Basse

This place specializes in tartines, French for “crostini” or “open-faced sandwiches”, and really gives you the bang for your buck. The generous portions and homey atmosphere reflect the inner warmth often found in the North of France. And be sure to order their fresh-cut fries — they are absolutely delicious.

Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille
2-4 Rue des Vieux Murs

Nestled in an adorable nook of Vieux Lille, this traditional northern bistro (or estaminet in French) epitomizes the quirky charm of Lille. You’ll find kitschy, old-world décor and simple dark wood furniture, ceilings, and walls adorned with antique kitchenware and old musical instruments — you can’t get any more authentic than this!

La Face B 
60 Rue d’Esquermes

For those vegans and veggies out there, we haven’t forgotten about you, and Lille hasn’t either! This “salon de thé” and lunch café serves up some delicious and cheap vegan fare that’s a bit off the beaten track. And for those of you travelers always seeking out free Wi-Fi, they have that, too.

Beer in Lille

If Bordeaux holds the title for the capital of wine, then Lille is definitely the hub of France’s beer culture. There are plenty of brewpubs, beer shops, and breweries to explore in the region. Read our guide: How to enjoy Lille’s famous beer culture for less.

Gastama Hostel offers one of the best values and locations in all of Lille.

Cheap lodging in Lille

Hotels and apartment stays in Lille are a lot cheaper than Paris. Hotel rooms are easily available for under $100 per night.

The People

109/115 Rue de Saint Andre
Prices from $60 per night

From dormitories to private rooms, this hostel is not just a place to rest your head. It’s also a restaurant and bar where backpackers, travelers, and locals alike come to hang out in one of the coolest spots in Vieux Lille. It’s a 10-minute walk from La Grand Place and a 15-20 minute stroll from the train station. See photos and learn more about The People.

Are you looking for more affordable places to stay in Lille? Search more than 600 hotels, hostels, and vacation apartments in Lille.

Your tips

Have you been to Lille? Share your tips on saving in this French city!

The post France: Budget travel guide to Lille appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

This may not be a surprise knowing that Lille brushes shoulders with Belgium, one of the beer meccas of the world, however, northern France has a long-running history with beer that few seem to know of. For example, before the war and post-war ruin of WWI, thousands of small-scale (now known as “micro”) breweries existed, which was one of this region’s main industries.

Nowadays, fewer breweries exist, but that’s not to say they’ve all disappeared. In fact, Lille and its surrounding region are home to more than 20 breweries. Read on to learn the best ways to sip the famous beers in Lille.

Related:
• A guide to ordering beer in France
• A Budget travel guide to Lille, France

A guide to beer in Lille: Breweries, brewpubs & bars

There are several breweries in the greater Lille region (see the tours section for more information), but if you’re limited to the Lille metropolis, don’t worry – there are still plenty of options for you to complete your epicurean beer expedition. We would highly suggest checking out these pubs and bars below that offer some of the region’s finest and most palatable brews.

A note on beer prices in Lille

Considering most Flemish brews have a higher percentage of alcohol content, your money tends to go a little further, even if it’s costing you €6-7 euros a pint. While several styles of beer exist in this region, ambers, doubles, and triples, dominate the shelves and drafts, with an alcohol content of at least 6%, but more commonly around 7-9%. These beers are known to be strong, so remember that one beer is more like two! And if you’re the type who likes to try a few different kinds, many bars offer a tasting flight at a reasonable rate.

But don’t worry, you can still get a great pint of beer for €5 and “une demie” (French for half-pint) for €2.50-4. Or you can go the “super cheapo” route with a DIY picnic. Most grocery stores have a pretty reputable selection of regional brews for much more reasonable prices than a bar or beer store — giving you the biggest bang for your buck.  Carrefour or Monoprix are good options and usually stay open longer than other grocery stores.

Le Lobby

10 rue de Royale, Vieux Lille

This beer bar is situated on one of Vieux Lille’s best streets for enjoying a good Northern beer. Serving more than 10 beers on tap, you really can’t go wrong here. It’s always teeming with people (mostly young adults), as there’s plenty of space, and almost always playing a good mix of old classics and indie music, making it an admirable place to rendezvous with friends. FYI: most pints here will cost you €6, which is very reasonable for this area!

La Capsule

25 rue des Trois Molettes, Vieux Lille

Think of La Capsule as the grandfather of Le Lobby — but with 28 beers on tap! They take beer seriously here, and if you’re not a suds expert, their highly-informed staff of beer specialists will be happy to help you with a smile on their face. Although the ground floor is quite small and cozy, they do have an underground space that they open up when the place becomes too packed.

Les 3 Brasseurs

22 place de la Gare, Lille

This is a classic Lille institution of beer situated just across from Lille Flandres, the main train station. It’s a great place to kill time during your stopover and get an authentic taste of the Ch’ti culture. 

La Rumeur

59 rue de Valenciennes, Moulins

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, this may be the place. It’s not only a brasserie and bar, but also a coffee shop, restaurant, concert venue, and art gallery. And the best part? It’s super affordable, with low beer prices (including their own brews) and tasty food options ranging, from €6-9 per plate or a pre-fixed menu for only €12.

L’Abbaye des Saveurs

13 rue des Vieux Murs, Vieux Lille

This is arguably one of the best craft beer shops in France! And they don’t only sell one of the widest selections of regional and international craft beer, but also several specialties of the Nord region, making this a perfect stop for some authentic souvenirs and beers to go.

Beer tours in Lille

For beer through the eyes of a local, you can take the Treasure Hunt and Beer Tasting Tour, giving visitors a unique opportunity to both explore Lille and discover its rich beer culture and history. The tour lasts three hours and includes four blind tastings for a total of $30. It’s a little on the steep side, but for beer aficionados, it could be worth the money.

If you have a rental car and feel like doing a little beer tour, this beer mapping project will be your perfect guide – showing you the location of numerous breweries, beer shops, brewpubs, beer bars, and even homebrews!

Do you have a favorite brewpub or brewery in France? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Lille, France: How to enjoy the city’s famous beer culture for less appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.