11 Wallet-Friendly Food & Drinks in France

France is a dream destination for food lovers, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to rustic local markets. But you don’t need a huge budget to eat well here. In fact, some of the country’s most beloved culinary experiences are surprisingly affordable, especially if you know where to look and how to eat like a local.

Whether you’re grabbing a flaky croissant from a corner boulangerie, enjoying a picnic near the Seine, or sipping a glass of house wine at a bistro, France offers plenty of ways to indulge without overspending.

11 Wallet-Friendly Food & Drinks in France

These wallet-friendly food and drink options are accessible, authentic, and deeply rooted in French culinary culture—perfect for travelers who want to eat richly on a backpacker’s budget.

Baguette Sandwiches

Baguette sandwiches are a go-to choice for locals and travelers alike. Found in almost every bakery and grocery store, these sandwiches typically come stuffed with combinations like jambon-beurre (ham and butter), cheese and egg, or tuna and vegetables.

At just €3–€5, they are among the most cost-effective and filling lunches available. They’re easy to eat on the move, perfect for a park bench meal, and a true staple of everyday French life. Plus, every boulangerie adds its own touch, so you’ll get a slightly different experience each time.

Croissants and Viennoiseries

French pastries like croissants, pain au chocolat, and pain aux raisins are not only delicious but also highly affordable. A classic buttery croissant typically costs between €1–€1.50 when purchased from a local bakery.

Pair one with a takeaway espresso, and you’ve got yourself a very Parisian—and very budget-friendly—breakfast. Avoid chain cafés and opt for neighborhood boulangeries for the best taste and price.

Crêpes (Especially Savory Galettes)

Crêpes, especially savory buckwheat versions called galettes, are popular across France and can be found in both sit-down crêperies and street vendors. Fillings like cheese, ham, mushrooms, or egg make them hearty enough for a full meal.

Prices usually range from €6–€8 for savory options and as little as €3 for sweet versions like sugar, lemon, or Nutella. They’re great for eating on the go or enjoying in a park during warm weather.

Kebab Sandwiches

Kebabs have become a street food staple in France, especially in student-heavy neighborhoods and multicultural areas. A pita or flatbread filled with roasted meat, lettuce, tomato, onions, and creamy garlic sauce offers huge value for the price.

At around €5–€7 for a sandwich, and slightly more if you want fries and a drink, they’re one of the best hot meal deals available. They’re also widely available late at night, making them perfect for post-exploration hunger pangs.

Daily Menus (Menu du Jour)

The menu du jour or ‘daily menu’ is a tradition in French eateries and offers the best bang for your buck when dining out. Many brasseries and cafés offer a set two- or three-course lunch menu for €12–€18.

Options often include seasonal or regional specialties and rotate daily, offering a chance to taste authentic dishes like duck confit, boeuf bourguignon, or tarte Tatin without splurging on à la carte prices. It’s also a great way to eat a hearty meal in a sit-down setting at a reasonable price.

Market Cheese & Charcuterie

French markets are a sensory delight and a practical source of affordable, high-quality food. You can buy cheeses and cured meats like Brie, Camembert, Comté, saucisson, and pâtés in small portions, perfect for picnics or casual meals.

Prices are usually lower than in restaurants, and vendors often let you sample before buying. With a baguette and a bit of fruit, you can create a picnic feast for under €10. Look for local open-air markets or covered halls in nearly every town.

Supermarket Salads & Meals

Supermarkets in France are surprisingly well-stocked with ready-to-eat options that don’t skimp on quality. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, and microwaveable meals can be found in every major store.

For around €3–€6, you can build a balanced lunch or dinner from fresh ingredients, and many stores have seating areas or picnic-friendly nearby parks. Some even offer hot food counters and self-serve espresso machines for a complete budget meal.

Vin de Table (House Wine)

Vin de table is typically the house wine served at bistros and cafés, and it’s often surprisingly good for the price. Expect to pay just €2–€3 for a glass, depending on location.

Most house wines are local or regional and pair well with classic French fare. You don’t have to spend big to enjoy wine in France—house pours are usually chosen with care and meant to complement the menu.

Pichet de Vin (Wine Carafe)

Ordering a pichet, or small carafe of wine, is one of the best ways to drink economically when dining with friends. Carafes usually come in 25cl, 50cl, or 1L sizes and are significantly cheaper than bottled wine.

Split between two or more people, the cost per glass can be less than €2. This is the preferred method for locals enjoying a meal without ceremony, and it often feels more authentic than ordering an expensive bottle.

Café Express at the Bar

In France, coffee is part ritual, part necessity. Ordering a café express at the bar rather than at a table will cost you significantly less—typically around €1 to €1.50.

The experience of standing among locals and exchanging a few words with the barista is both affordable and culturally rich. It’s a great way to start your morning or take a quick pause during sightseeing.

Tap Water (Carafe d’Eau)

When dining out, don’t be shy about asking for a carafe d’eau—tap water. It’s safe, completely free, and perfectly normal to request in any restaurant in France.

This simple habit can save you €2–€5 per meal and is better for the environment. Many tourists unknowingly pay for bottled water out of habit, but locals almost always go with the free option.

Tips for Eating Well on a Budget in France

These general tips below will help you savor the best of French cuisine—deliciously and affordably.

Visit bakeries near closing time—some offer leftover items at a discount or even throw in extras with your purchase.
Skip tourist streets and instead look for eateries tucked away on side streets or near universities for better prices and more local clientele.
When dining out, the ‘formule’ (set menu) offers the best value—sometimes including a drink or coffee with your meal.
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at public fountains throughout cities. Many French cities, including Paris, have safe, free drinking water available.
Open-air markets are fantastic for fresh produce, snacks, and lunch ingredients, especially on weekends—perfect for putting together an affordable feast.

What to Expect from Budget Food in France

Even inexpensive food in France is held to high quality standards. You’ll find freshness, seasonal ingredients, and care in preparation, even from small vendors or supermarkets.

Eating times are fairly fixed—lunch is usually between 12pm and 2pm, while dinner starts after 7pm. Restaurants often close between these times, so plan accordingly.

Shops and markets frequently close on Sundays and mid-afternoons for breaks. Always check opening hours before heading out to avoid disappointment.

Final Thoughts on Eating and Drinking in France on a Budget

France is a country where good food is a way of life, not just a luxury. Even with a limited budget, you can experience rich culinary traditions, local specialties, and delightful flavors that define French culture.

These 11 wallet-friendly food and drink options provide a guide to enjoying France affordably and deliciously. With a little local know-how and an appetite for exploration, you’ll eat like royalty without paying the price.