Home to some of the world’s best food, the city of luuurve, incredible wine, sexy accents and so much more. France is one of the most visited countries in the world, and for good reason!
Let’s be honest – you probably already know your fair share about France. What comes to mind for you? The Eiffel Tower? Dazzling coastlines? Wine? Snails? … the list goes on.
France is a country full of culture, history, magnificent architecture and mindblowing natural landscapes. It’s one of the most diverse countries in Europe, offering something for everyone.
Sure, there’s Paris (which is amazing) but there is so much more to this incredible country. From its beaches and mountains to its history and culture, this diversity can make deciding where to stay in France pretty daunting.
France can be an expensive country, many visitors opt to stick to one or two places rather than travel around. It’s therefore important to have an idea of what you want to do before you arrive so that you don’t miss out.
That’s where I come in! I’ve created this guide to the eight best places in France (in my humble opinion) and categorised them based on who they are best for. You’ll find the best places to stay and things to do in each – you’ll be an expert in no time…
So let’s get started. Allons-y!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answers: Where is the Best Place to Stay in France?
- Lyon – Overall Best Place to Stay in France
- Disneyland Paris – Best Place to Stay in France For Families
- Paris – Most Romantic Place to Stay in France for Couples
- Nice – Coolest Place to Stay in France
- Marseille – Where to Stay in France on a Budget
- Corsica – One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in France
- French Alps – Where to Stay in France for Adventure
- Bordeaux – Best Place to Stay in France for Wine
Map of Where to Stay in France
Where is the Best Place to Stay in France?
Whilst France is one of the most expensive countries in the Eurozone, there are plenty of options available to suit all budgets. City centres are naturally pricier, and the countryside offers some truly breathtaking retreats. These are my top picks for where to stay in France (yep, in the whole country peeps – these places are ELITE).
Au Coin Du Feu – French Alps | Best Hotel in France
France is a notoriously expensive country – but this three-star alpine retreat strikes a great balance between cost and luxury. Nestled amongst the mountains, almost every room comes with unbeatable views of Europe’s highest mountain range. They have a spacious outdoor terrace where you can soak up the atmosphere and panoramic views. It is also only a short walk from ski lifts and hiking trails.
Eklo Paris Porte de Versailles – Paris | Best Hostel in France
This is one of my favourite hostels in the world! It strikes a great balance between sociable and peaceful – appealing to all kinds of backpackers. This Paris hostel is located just a 10-minute walk from the Porte de Versailles metro, you’ll be all set to explore the city. Head to the 9th floor for EPIC views of the Eiffel Tower, un-bloody-real!
Villa Les Terrasses – Nice | Best Airbnb in France
Nice’s Airbnb Luxe properties form the website’s upmarket range – with plenty of additional services on offer in each. Right on the outskirts of Nice, this vast villa can also come with a private chef and driver if you wish (fancy, I know). There is air conditioning to keep you cool on those hot summer days too. Where this house truly shines is the infinity outdoor swimming pool which comes with unspoiled views of Nice and the surrounding countryside.
France’s Eight Best Places to Stay in
France is famous for being home to the city of love, some of the most impressive Alps in the world and the richest city and culture. There is a little slice of Parisian heaven for everyone, no matter what you’re into. So, let’s figure out which piece of the French pie is for you.
1. Lyon – Overall Best Place to Stay in France
I know Lyon might not be the most obvious choice here – but if you want an authentic French experience this has to be my pick! As France’s second city, there are plenty of things to do in Lyon and the city has maintained a distinct atmosphere. Right in the heart of the country, it has drawn influences from all over to create a true melting pot.
Where Lyon stands out from Paris is the smaller tourism numbers. Many of the attractions are just as beautiful but do not come with the long lines associated with the capital. The entire city centre is recognized by UNESCO and perfectly showcases French heritage.
It is also considerably smaller, meaning most attractions can be easily reached on foot. In general, Lyon provides a great overview of everything that makes France an attractive destination. If you want to discover the real France – skip the capital and head straight to Lyon.
As Lyon is a small city, I recommend sticking to the city centre or Lyon’s central neighbourhoods where you are guaranteed to be a stone’s throw from the main attractions. If you do opt to head further out to save money, check where the nearest metro station is.
Hôtel de l’Abbaye | Best Hotel in Lyon
Whilst Hôtel de l’Abbaye is housed within a historic building, the interior benefits from modern furnishings and sleek design. It is close to both the historic centre and the 2nd arrondissement – great for both history and culture! They offer classy (but not stuffy) service and a complimentary buffet breakfast is included in the rate. Plus, the Musée Miniature et Cinéma is just a few steps away.
Slo Lyon les Pentes | Best Hostel in Lyon
Slo Lyon les Pentes has managed to create one of the few backpacker accommodations in Lyon that truly caters to everyone! The large common area has events throughout the week, but there are also some quiet spaces for those who need a bit of peace. It is located right in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. They also arrange some awesome excursions.
Colourful Apartment | Best Airbnb in Lyon
This Airbnb apartment stands out for its excellent interior design, above-and-beyond service and perfect location. As such, this spacious apartment truly has it all! With art books throughout the living space and interesting pieces on every wall, this apartment was clearly designed by a true creative. It also has a spacious kitchen as well as modern private bathroom suites.
Things To Do and See in Lyon
- Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
- Take a Cruise Around Lyon
- Check Out Musée des Beaux Arts
- Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or
- Go on a Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour
- Take a Stroll Around Place Bellecour
- Marvel at the Fourvière Basilica
- Journey through Lyon’s Traboules
2. Disneyland Paris – Best Place to Stay in France for Families
It goes without saying that Disneyland Paris is the best destination for families in France. With more visitors annually than the Eiffel Tower itself, Disneyland Paris attracts visitors from across Europe seeking to enjoy the whimsy of the resort. With rides to suit all ages and a great selection of restaurants, parents will have just as much fun as the little ones.
American visitors might not be as convinced about staying near the park – especially as it’s smaller than the two United States resorts – but the accommodation in the area is geared towards families. Even if you don’t visit the park itself, Marne la Vallée (the nearest town) is peaceful and well-connected to central Paris. Many of the Disney-owned hotels also offer babysitting services and tours of the city.
As with other Disney parks across the world, there are a few charming hotels dotted around the area owned by the resort. These are great if the park is the main purpose of your visit, but if you are planning a longer stay I recommend checking out the accommodation in Marne la Vallée and Val d’Europe.
Dream Castle Hotel Marne La Vallée | Best Hotel in Disneyland Paris
Whilst many of the Disney-owned hotels have mixed reviews, Marne la Vallée has some beautiful hotels with direct links to the park. Dream Castle Hotel has a free shuttle to Disneyland and gives you some peace and quiet away from the busy park. The on-site restaurant has a delectable selection of American and French cuisine. There’s also a spa where you can relax after a long day of exploring the parks.
Eklo Marne La Vallée | Best Hotel for Backpackers Near Disneyland Paris
There aren’t any hostels in the Disneyland Paris area – but if you want to save some money, this charming hotel is an excellent alternative! This hostel gives you quick connections to both Disneyland and Paris. They also have a great restaurant bar open all day long and an epic terrace to relax on throughout the day.
DISNEY PARIS apartment +parking and RER | Best Airbnb in Disneyland Paris
For families looking for a little extra privacy, this Airbnb in France offers some excellent apartments within the Disneyland Paris area. This modern gem is connected to the park by bus and also has links to central Paris. It can sleep up to six guests across two bedrooms, making it great for families. There is also a small balcony where you can enjoy an atmospheric breakfast in the mornings. Plus it comes with private parking if you need it.
Things To Do and See in Disney Paris
- Visit Disneyland Paris (surprise surprise!)
- Explore the Sleeping Beauty Castle
- Journey through the Disneyland Pirates of the Caribbean adventure
- Go wild and jump on the Star Wars: Hyperspace Mountain Rollercoaster
- Climb aboard the Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril attraction and prepare yourself for a few twists and turns
3. Paris – Most Romantic Place to Stay in France for Couples
The dazzling City of Light naturally had to take the top spot for couples heading to France! World-class restaurants, quaint walkways and awe-inspiring landmarks make this arguably the best destination in the world for a romantic getaway. The city is so full of love that many couples reserve it for special occasions, but I reckon now is as good a time to treat yourselves as any.
Romance aside, Paris is also considered a major culinary, fashion and art capital in the world – and is the epicentre of European culture. If you are planning a wider trip across the continent, there isn’t a single major city that isn’t well connected to Paris. This is a city everyone should have on their bucket list and an excellent gateway into the region.
With the Eiffel Tower, Mona Lisa and Champs Elysée, there are plenty of attractions to include in your Paris itinerary. I recommend taking at least a week to truly get a feel for the city.
Paris is a huge city – and one of the most expensive in Europe! I reckon it is worth splurging out on good accommodation in Paris whilst you’re here, but there are some cheaper options in the suburbs that are well connected by the metro. Montmartre is an artsy neighbourhood close to the centre that also has some good budget options.
La Réserve Paris Hotel & Spa | Best Hotel in Paris
If you’re going to splurge anywhere in the world on a super swanky hotel, Paris is the place to do it! This five-star hotel comes with above-and-beyond guest service and plenty of luxurious extras. For couples, I recommend either their Eiffel Suite or Junior Eiffel Suite – where you can enjoy spectacular views of the famous tower. They also have some cheaper options, but all of their chic rooms come with a private balcony.
Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels | Best Hostel in Paris
Montmartre has long been considered the hippest neighbourhood in Paris – so it makes sense that it would be home to one of the best backpacker hostels in Paris! It is only a ten-minute walk from the Sacre Coeur, with plenty of Metro connections nearby. They have a gorgeous terrace where you can soak up the sunshine and the cool vibes of the neighbourhood.
Romantic Loft | Best Airbnb in Paris
This gorgeous Airbnb Plus apartment is perfect for a romantic getaway in the heart of Paris. Decorated in the Art Nouveau style, let this stunning loft transport you back to 1920s France with sleek design and delicate details. What’s more, it also comes with a private jacuzzi bath where you can unwind after a long day of exploring the City of Love.
Things To Do and See in Paris
- Take a romantic picnic to the Eiffel Tower and watch it sparkle after the sun sets
- Marvel at the incredible works of art in the Louvre Museum
- Visit Paris’ infamous Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile
- Join a Seine Cruise starting at the Eiffel Tower
- Take in the city’s art history at Musée d’Orsay
- Stroll along the Seine River, taking in the city’s sights
- Check out the impressive, Palais Garnier (a historic 1,979-seat opera house)
- Visit the Notre-Dame de Paris
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI4. Nice – Coolest Place to Stay in France
Located on the Mediterranean Coast, Nice is one of the main gateways to the French Riviera and a popular destination with Europeans throughout the summer! This gorgeous city has dazzling views of the seaside, as well as nearby mountains to add a sense of drama. The winding streets also have some excellent locally-owned restaurants and boutiques.
Nice is often thought of as a destination for the wealthy, but it is actually an incredibly diverse city that has a lot to offer! The main Promenade des Anglais area is, of course, quite expensive – but head further inland and you will find some hidden gems and charming places to stay in Nice. The city is also known for its multicultural atmosphere and unique culture.
The city is well connected with the French Riviera, and makes a great base for exploring the region from! Monaco is also only a short train journey away – perfect if you want to splash out or simply tick off another country. Its proximity to Italy also has an influence on the local culture and cuisine.
This is also a great area to find some French yoga retreats.
Promenade des Anglais is the main tourist strip, but accommodation can be a little pricier here. The inner city is great if you’re on a budget. The foothills surrounding the city are the perfect place to snap up a lavish villa.
Hotel 64 Nice | Best Hotel in Nice
If you’re looking for a room in the city centre, Hotel 64 is one of the best-rated hotels in Nice! It’s only a short walk from the main Promenade, giving you quick access to all of the best attractions in the city. Their modern rooms are fully soundproofed, ensuring you get to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep whatever day of the week.
Villa Saint Exupery Beach | Best Hostel in Nice
The French Riviera is notoriously one of the most expensive regions in Europe, but that doesn’t mean that there are no affordable hostels in Nice. This hostel gives you a great place to rest your head without breaking the bank! The on-site bar also comes with a happy hour, as well as live music throughout the evening. Keep the party going by heading on one of their organised pub crawls at the weekend.
Villa Les Terrasses | Best Airbnb in Nice
Nice’s Airbnb Luxe properties form the website’s upmarket range – with plenty of additional services on offer in each. Right on the outskirts of Nice, this vast villa can also come with a private chef and driver if you wish. Plus, there is air conditioning to look after you on those hot summer days. Where this house truly shines is the infinity pool which comes with unspoiled views of Nice and the surrounding countryside.
Things To Do and See in Nice
- Visit the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain
- Take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais
- Marvel at the work of arts at the Musée Matisse
- Visit the historic Hotel Negresco
- Join a Perfume Making Workshop
- Hit the beach for some tanning and water sports!
5. Marseille – Where to Stay in France on a Budget
Heading further along the French Riviera, Marseille is still somewhat of a hidden gem in France. Though the city once had a rough reputation, it is now up-and-coming. This lingering reputation has, however, resulted in Marseille being the cheapest major city in the country. For those on a strict budget or backpacking France, this is a great way to soak up the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.
With street art around every corner and bustling markets, Marseille has still retained a gritty atmosphere that adds a sense of intrigue to the southern metropolis. The city has become a major hub for French creatives, with plenty of ateliers and independent galleries dotted around the central districts.
Choosing to stay in Marseille is great as it’s a hub for exploring other parts of Southern France! Nice is only a short train ride away, as is Aix-en-Provence. The harbour comes with ferry connections to Corsica, Italy and even as far as Morocco. Marseille Airport has also recently grown as a major hub for European budget airlines.
Vieux Port is the main centre and a great starting point for exploring the city. Le Panier is a long-term favourite with creatives staying in Marseille and is also great for those who want quick access to the main train station.
If you’re looking for a laid-back and chill experience, stay in Aix en Provence. It’s a gorgeous city with twisting streets lined by French architecture and all the wit of Southern France. Every moment spent there is a delight!
Hôtel Maison Montgrand | Best Hotel in Marseille
As three-star hotels go, this one goes above and beyond to ensure you have a comfortable stay! From stylish furnishings to excellent service standards, you’ll be shocked that this hotel is so affordable. They offer beauty treatments to guests and also have a car rental and tour booking desk. The Vieux Port is also only a stone’s throw away.
Vertigo Vieux-Port | Best Hostel in Marseille
With bright murals on every wall, this hostel has a creative flair that makes it a popular pick for digital nomads opting to stay in France! They’re also big on finishing touches, with a well-equipped kitchen that has some seasonings included. Unlike other hostels in Marseille, they also include a free breakfast, helping to save you even more money.
Beautiful Terrace | Best Airbnb in Marseille
Right in the heart of Le Panier, this gorgeous Airbnb is well-placed for exploring the best the city has to offer. It has a gorgeous private terrace where you can admire views across the port, alongside a glass of wine or two! The décor inside is minimal, giving you a calm and bright space to wake up to in the morning.
Things To Do and See in Marseille
- Check out the natural beauty of Calanque de Sormiou with its blue sea, white cliffs and pines.
- Visit the famous La Cité Radieuse (or, the ‘House of the Madman’). UNESCO has recognised it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Go on a Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine
- Stroll around the Vieux Port
- Marvel at the Cathédrale de la Major’s beautiful domed towers
- Check out Marseille’s Old Town, Le Panier
- Stop in at Marseille’s oldest museum, Palais Longchamp
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!6. Corsica – One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in France
Corsica is a large island in the Mediterranean Sea that is officially administered by France but has its own unique culture. Right next to Sardinia, Corsican culture has been heavily influenced by Italy. It also has its own fascinating history, and the Corsican language has seen major revival efforts over the past decade.
Corsica is easily one of the most beautiful places in France – with unspoiled beaches and sweeping hills everywhere you turn. Both the mountains and the sea have resulted in plenty of adventure activities popping up around the island. The local culture is one of the most unique in Europe, with a variety of festivals and traditions throughout the year.
Ajaccio is the capital and largest city, with direct links to France and Italy. Porto Vecchio has quicker links to Italy, and a more local vibe, making it one of the most popular places to stay in Corsica. The countryside has plenty of hidden retreats, and I recommend hiring a car to get to them.
Hôtel Restaurant Villa Joséphine | Best Hotel in Corsica
This quaint little hotel is the perfect countryside retreat in Corsica. Located a short walk away from the coast, the entire property is surrounded by gorgeous views. There is a small swimming pool open during the summer season, and a complimentary breakfast every morning. The nearby town is popular with hiking – so this is a great choice for active travellers!
Auberge de Jeunesse | Best Hostel in Corsica
There aren’t many hostels in Corsica, but the Auberge de Jeunesse gives you a local experience at an affordable rate! They not only include breakfast in the price but dinner is included at various points throughout the week. Owned by a local, many previous guests were delighted to discover the wealth of knowledge the host had about the region.
Sea View Studio | Best Airbnb in Corsica
Though only a short walk from the town of Porticcio, this studio has a rural feel. This gives you the best of both worlds, with a calm setting and plenty of tourism facilities nearby. The small decked area comes with sun loungers, as well as excellent views towards the coast. The host also has super host status thanks to consistently good reviews.
Things To Do and See in Corsica
- Visit the Lavezzi Islands
- Visit Bastia’s historic heart, Terra Vecchia
- Discover the island’s history at the city museum, in The Governors’ Palace – built in 1530!
- Check out the jagged cliffs and incredible blue sea at Les Calanques de Piana
- Explore the ancient churches of Cargèse
- Join a Half-Day Cruise of Scandola Reserve & Calanche de Piana
- Hike the GR20 (aka Fra li Monti)
- Drive along the Calanches de Piana
Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.
Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!
We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!
View on REI Read the Review7. French Alps – Where to Stay in France for Adventure
The Alps are home to the highest mountains in Western Europe, and therefore some of the most thrilling adventure activities! Having hosted two Winter Olympics, the French Alps are packed with snow sports facilities throughout the colder months. In the summer the area also benefits from hiking and cycling trails – and even a few glacier excursions.
Thanks to all those glaciers, the French Alps is an area of astounding beauty. With crystal clear lakes and imposing mountains, this is the perfect destination for nature photographers. It is also well connected to the South of France, as well as parts of Italy and Switzerland.
Chamonix is the most popular resort town located at the base of Mont Blanc – the highest mountain in the European Union. Grenoble and Annecy are also popular, and some of the smaller towns have quieter skiing trails.
Au Coin Du Feu | Best Hotel in the French Alps
This small hotel has a romantic atmosphere, with traditional architecture and a prime location nestled among the mountains! Some of the rooms come with mountain views, but for those on the budget, the cheaper rooms aren’t too shabby either. As well as a delicious breakfast, a hot snack is included which you can enjoy after a day of skiing or hiking.
Chamonix Lodge | Best Hostel in the French Alps
Speaking of great budget accommodations in the Chamonix area – this hostel is right in the heart of the town! It goes above and beyond when it comes to add-ons, including a gas barbecue and sauna with a hot tub. Chamonix Lodge prides itself on its modern interiors and service standards. They strive to create a social atmosphere that will be welcoming to all kinds of guests.
Luxury one-bedroom apartment with jacuzzi | Best Airbnb in the French Alps
Another excellent Airbnb property, this property is all about the VIEWS! Seriously, a soak in this hot tub will also bless your eyes with some pretty insane mountain vistas. This Airbnb is a sprinkle of luxury, designed for two (perfect for you love birds after a mountain escape). Close to the slopes, this one is also a hit for adventure junkies.
Things To Do and See in the French Alps
- Visit the village of Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc
- Stop in at the Old Town (historic centre) of Annecy
- Marvel at the natural beauty in Vercors Regional Natural Park
- Admire the historic landmarks in Grenoble’s Vieille Ville
- Check out the ruins of Roman baths – the Arch of Campanus and the Temple of Diana
- Hit the slopes at Val d’Isère ski resort
- Head to the incredible Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval
- Do all of the best in a day on a Guided Tour of Chamonix, Mont Blanc & Ice Cave
8. Bordeaux – Best Place to Stay in France for Wine
France as a whole is known for its wine – with Bordeaux perhaps being the epicentre of viticulture in the country! Bordelais wine is regarded among the best wines in the world, and there are plenty of wine tours departing from the city throughout the year.
Bordeaux is a somewhat sprawling city but benefits from a compact city centre. Often dubbed Little Paris, Bordeaux has some great architectural attractions and cultural sites. Like Lyon, Bordeaux is a great alternative for those who want to avoid the huge number of tourists who go to the more popular destinations.
The city centre is small and easy to get around on foot, so this should be your main base in the city. If possible, try to stay close to the river as this is where most of the action is to be found. Bordeaux has a bit of an urban sprawl problem, so if you do opt to stay further out make sure to check local transportation. Knowing where to stay in Bordeaux before you start your travels is really important!
Hôtel Singulier Bordeaux | Best Hotel in Bordeaux
With French Nouveau décor, this quaint hotel is a time capsule to a bygone era in French history. The riverfront is only a two-minute walk away, and the surrounding neighbourhood is popular with shoppers visiting the city. Despite the historic vibe, the hotel does benefit from modern appliances – including standalone bathtubs in some suites. There is also a rooftop terrace with views across Bordeaux.
Hostel 20 Bordeaux | Best Hostel in Bordeaux
This small yet mighty hostel comes with some of the best reviews in the city. It has excellent social facilities, though the small guest numbers also create an intimate atmosphere. The on-site restaurant offers cheap and cheerful French cuisine and accepts outside guests.
The Bordeaux Wine Museum is only a two-minute walk away, yet another reason why this is one of the best hostels in Bordeaux. There is also a small terrace where you can soak up the atmosphere.
Adorable Studio | Best Airbnb in Bordeaux
This beautiful AirBnB studio will transport you to a French New Wave film, with charming interiors and city centre views! The parquet flooring and marble fixtures hark to the apartment’s past, whilst modern technology ensures you will enjoy contemporary levels of comfort.
The real star of the show is, of course, the balcony that overlooks one of the main streets. It’s considered one of the best Airbnbs in Bordeaux, so you’ll be in for a treat.
Things To Do and See in Bordeaux
- Visit France’s Premier Wine Museum, La Cité du Vin
- Check out the St. Andrew’s Cathedral
- Climb the impressive Pey-Berland Tower
- Stop in at the Porte Cailhau
- Admire the Grosse Cloche Tower
- Join a Food and Wine Tour in Saint-Émilion
- Take a stroll Along the Garonne River
- Soak in the beauty of the Place de la Bourse
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in France
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of France and where to stay.
What To Pack For France
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for France
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to France.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in France
Sacré bleu! The nation of France is packed with great wine, sweeping vistas and locals that are friendlier than you might have been led to believe (mostly!). Diverse and picturesque, France is a destination everyone should visit at least once.
But with so many places in France to visit it is tough to narrow down just eight. If I had to add another to the list, I’d also throw in Mont Saint Michael.
Mont Saint Michael is a magical, holy island topped by the gravity-defying, historic abbey is a sight to see. Mont Saint Michael should be on your to-visit list! It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you know it must be pretty damn impressive.
Though I don’t like to play favourites, I really love Marseille in particular. This coastal gem is still considered up-and-coming and offers a grittier experience in the South of France. It’s also more budget-friendly than other parts of the country, letting you soak up the local joie de vivre for less.
It really does depend on what you want to get out of your trip though. I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming visit to this vibrant and eclectic nation.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around France.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in France.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in France instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for France.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂