13 Savvy Travel Hacks for France Only Locals Know

Traveling in France is an unforgettable experience—world-class sights, rich culture, and incredible cuisine await. But while guidebooks and tourist blogs cover the basics, the real magic often lies in the everyday tips and tricks locals use to save money, skip lines, and enjoy the best of France with ease.

13 Savvy Travel Hacks for France Only Locals Know

Whether you’re backpacking through cities or spending weeks exploring the countryside, these insider hacks will help you travel smarter and spend less. Here are 13 savvy travel hacks for France that only locals tend to know—until now.

Ride Regional TER Trains for Cheaper Travel

TER (Transport Express Régional) trains are slower than high-speed TGVs, but they’re significantly cheaper and still quite comfortable. Locals often use them for scenic, affordable intercity trips.

You don’t need to book in advance, and the fares are fixed. Great for day trips or short regional journeys without the premium TGV price tag.

Buy a Navigo Découverte Pass for Paris Transport

Instead of buying single metro tickets, locals opt for the Navigo Découverte pass, which gives unlimited weekly travel across Paris’s entire transport network for about €30.

It’s valid from Monday to Sunday and works on metros, buses, RER trains, and trams. Bring a passport photo for setup—you’ll earn back the cost in just a few days of travel.

Ask for a Carafe d’Eau Instead of Bottled Water

In restaurants, asking for a carafe d’eau (tap water) instead of paying for bottled water is totally normal in France—and completely free.

Most tourists don’t realize this and end up spending €3–€5 per meal unnecessarily. Locals nearly always skip the bottled water and go with the carafe.

Take Advantage of First Sundays at Museums

Many national museums across France—including the Louvre, Orsay, and Pompidou—offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month from October to March.

Locals take full advantage of this and show up early to beat the lines. If you plan your itinerary right, you can visit multiple major museums without paying a cent.

Use Lunch Menus to Dine Well for Less

French restaurants often offer a menu du jour or fixed-price lunch menu with multiple courses at a major discount compared to dinner prices.

You can get a full sit-down meal with wine for €12–€18 in non-touristy neighborhoods. This is how locals enjoy great cuisine on a budget.

Carry a Reusable Water Bottle

Tap water is safe to drink in France, and cities like Paris have free public fountains (including sparkling water ones).

Locals carry reusable bottles and refill them throughout the day, saving on expensive bottled water and reducing waste.

Grocery Stores Have Affordable Lunch Options

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Monoprix, and Franprix are full of ready-made sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Many locals grab these for quick, affordable lunches.

It’s a great way to save money and still eat well, especially when paired with a park bench or scenic picnic spot.

Eat at University Cafeterias (CROUS)

If you’re a student or can get access, CROUS cafeterias in university towns offer full meals (starter, main, dessert) for just a few euros.

Locals—including non-students—sometimes sneak in with student friends or during open hours. Meals are basic but filling and cheap.

Use BlaBlaCar for Inexpensive Intercity Travel

BlaBlaCar is hugely popular among locals for cheap rides between cities. It’s often half the price of train travel and offers more flexible departure times.

You can meet locals, travel comfortably, and save money—all while reducing your carbon footprint by carpooling.

Check for Free Events with Local Tourism Offices

Every French city and town has a tourism office with listings of free events, from concerts and markets to walking tours and museum nights.

Locals regularly check these for weekend plans, and you can too—look for flyers, bulletin boards, or websites of local tourism boards.

Plan Around Public Holidays and Strikes

France loves a good holiday—and a good strike. Locals always check calendars for jours fériés (public holidays) and transport strike notices before traveling.

Avoid surprises by checking ahead using local news or apps like SNCF Connect or Citymapper. You’ll save time, money, and hassle.

Go to Boulangeries After 6pm

Many bakeries discount items late in the day to clear inventory. Croissants, sandwiches, and pastries are often sold for 30–50% less after 6pm.

Locals know this and time their visits accordingly. Perfect for budget-friendly dinners or next-morning breakfasts.

Get Discounts with Youth and Age-Based Cards

France offers various discount cards for young travelers, students, and seniors that give reduced fares on trains, buses, and even attractions.

Look for Carte Jeune (for under-27s) or city-specific discount cards. Locals take full advantage of these deals, and so should you.

Advanced Tips for Applying Local Travel Hacks

These practical tips will help you put local knowledge into action—from navigating transit like a pro to finding better food and shopping deals. Use them to enhance your experience, stretch your budget, and blend in effortlessly while traveling through France.

Avoid peak hours when using public transport. Early mornings (8–9am) and late afternoons (5–7pm) are the busiest times for metros and trains. Traveling mid-morning or mid-afternoon not only means more space and comfort but also faster boarding and fewer delays—especially in Paris.
Pick up a reusable tote bag for groceries or snacks. Most French supermarkets charge for disposable plastic bags, and locals always carry a ‘sac réutilisable’ to avoid extra fees. You’ll also look less like a tourist and more like a seasoned traveler.
Look for bakeries and cafés with a queue of locals. A line out the door is a clear sign of great quality and fair prices. Locals know where to get the freshest baguettes and flakiest croissants, and following their lead usually means better value and flavor.
Always greet shopkeepers and service workers with a polite ‘Bonjour’. It’s considered rude in France to ask for something without a greeting, and being polite can dramatically change the way you’re treated, especially in small towns or local stores.
Use Google Translate’s photo function to read menus, signs, or product labels. In smaller towns or traditional restaurants, English menus may not be available. This tool helps you decode ingredients, prices, and instructions instantly without needing to ask for help.

What to Expect When Traveling Like a Local in France

Adopting local habits can help you blend in and get more authentic experiences. Locals often reward respectful and savvy travelers with better service, helpful advice, and even unexpected discounts or tips.

Not all hacks apply in every region. What works perfectly in Paris might not work in a small Alpine village, so it’s important to adjust your expectations based on your destination. Be flexible, stay observant, and follow local rhythms.

Many money-saving strategies are also better for the environment. Using reusable bags, public transit, or reducing food waste through apps like Too Good To Go not only saves money but also supports sustainable travel in France.

Final Thoughts on Local Travel Hacks in France

The best travel experiences in France often come from living like a local. These 13 savvy travel hacks will help you spend less, enjoy more, and avoid common tourist traps.

Whether you’re riding the rails, hunting down bakery deals, or sipping wine in a park, a little insider knowledge goes a long way. Embrace these tips and you’ll unlock a richer, more budget-friendly way to experience France.