Accommodation in France
France offers one of the widest accommodation spectrums in Europe — from Parisian palaces to farm stays in the Dordogne, from Alpine chalets to Mediterranean villas, and from sophisticated
- Ideal for families, groups, and stays of a week or more
- Most have kitchens, gardens, sometimes pools
- Expect €400–1,200/week depending on size, location, and season
- Book 6–12 months ahead for July–August in popular regions
Chambres d'Hôtes
The French B&B — a private home offering 1–5 guest rooms, with breakfast included. The best
— some B&Bs offer evening meals (communal dining with the hosts). Often excellent, always convivial. - Expect €70–150/night for a double including breakfast
- Networks: Gîtes de France, Clévacances, Fleurs de Soleil
Camping
France is Europe's camping capital — 8,000+ campsites, many in stunning locations. French
- Municipal campings: Basic, cheap (€10–20/night), often beautifully located
- 3–4 star campings: Family-oriented, pools, activities, rentable mobile homes
- 5-star/Glamping: Luxury tents, treehouses, yurts — increasingly popular
Mobile homes and chalets: Available for rent at most larger campgrounds — a budget-friendly alternative to gîtes, especially for families.
Hostels
- HI France (Hostelling International): Network of hostels in major cities and some rural areas
- Independent hostels: Generator, St Christopher's, MIJE (Paris) — social atmospheres, often design-conscious
- Expect: €25–55/night for a dorm bed in Paris; €20–35 elsewhere
- Private rooms in hostels: €60–100 (competitive with budget hotels)
Alternative Options
- Airbnb: Widely available but increasingly regulated — Paris limits to 120 nights/year, some cities require registration numbers
- House-sitting: Platforms like TrustedHousesitters connect travellers with homeowners
- Farm stays:
— working farms offering accommodation, meals, and activities - Monasteries and convents: Several offer basic guest rooms at modest prices — silence appreciated