The French Riviera is one of the most expensive summer destinations not only in France, but all of Europe, and this is coming from someone who lives in Paris.
From the glitz and glamour of Cannes to the party scene in Saint-Tropez, you’d better come prepared to splurge if it’s a Bardot-inspired Côte d’Azur vacay you’re hoping for. Be that as it may be, it’s not like it can’t be less expensive.
Don’t get me wrong: the South of France is never exactly affordable, but something I’ve learned over the years, and taking the TGV down there every summer, is that it doesn’t have to break the bank, either.
There’s always something a bit more mid-range, especially when it comes to these 4 cheap-er French Riviera towns I’ve been lucky enough to find out about over the years:
Menton
The most Italian town in France, Menton sits right on the border with the brotherly nation, and it looks like something straight out of a vintage postcard from the 60s: I’m talking pastel houses lining an azure sea, a scenic promenade, and gelato shops galore.
I’ve written extensively about Menton in this accompanying article, so make sure you check that out, but if I were to summarize it, I’d say it’s the quieter end of the Riviera. Same Mediterranean charm, and none of Saint-Tropez’s VIP-only beach clubs or Monaco’s pretentiousness.
Plus, it can be somewhat more affordable to visit. This summer, booking this modern two-bedroom apartment only a few steps from the waterfront will set you back $146 as a couple (or $73 each), and if it’s casual dinners you’re after, and you love seafood, try L’Orangerie.
Average Prices In Menton, France
| Category | Average Price (USD) |
| Budget B&B / Hotel (2) | $52–$110 per night |
| 3-star hotel | $64–$164 per night |
| Budget meal | $16–$27 per person |
| 3-course meal (mid-range) | $32–$54 per person |
| Fine-dining | $85–$160 per person |
| Taxi ride (short) | $11–$16 per trip |
Villefranche-sur-Mer
I’m sure you’ve heard of the Principality of Monaco, but what about Villefranche-sur-Mer, a short half-hour drive west of the world’s richest micro-state? A laid-back resort town home to a bistrot-packed marina, ornate Baroque churches, and an idyllic coastline, it is Southern France in a nutshell.
I usually go to Villefranche to unwind, and escape the Monaco and Nice crowds, and there’s nowhere better to do so than Plage des Marinières, a sandy bat hugged by the Med—especially after you’ve wolfed down some grilled octopus and scallop risotto at Les Garçons, and all you need next is a sieste.
This town has definitely grown a lot more popular than it used to be due to overflowing tourism from nearby hotspots, but it’s as peaceful as they come in the Côte d’Azur these days. Oh, and if I may recommend a hotel, La Flore offers beautiful coastal views for $126 per person (as a couple).
Average Prices In Villefranche-sur-Mer, France
| Category | Average Price (USD) |
| Budget B&B / Hotel (2) | $130–$195 per night |
| 3-star hotel | $150–$235 per night |
| Budget meal | $16–$32 per person |
| 3-course meal (mid-range) | $32–$54 per person |
| Fine-dining | $70–$180 per person |
| Bus / local transport | $5.50 per day |
| Taxi ride (short) | $11–$16 per trip |
Cagnes-sur-Mer
A 28-minute drive west of Nice, Cagnes-sur-Mer is that peaceful weekend getaway you need to recharge your social batteries: minimal crowds, minimal traffic, quieter beaches, and most importantly even, plenty of Old World allure to go ’round.
In my opinion, this is one of the prettiest medieval towns on the Mediterranean coast of France. Picture narrow cobbled pathways and centuries-old stone houses, a fishermen-built harbor lined with colorful boats, down by Cros-de-Cagnes, and even a hilltop castle at the municipality’s highest point.
There are also great restaurants on Plage de l’Hippodrome, Cagnes’ trendiest beach, like my personal favorite Le Grill du Boucher, well-known for its entrecôte and traditional tartare, and if you happen to be looking for a place to lay your head, overnights at Villa Le Mazet cost only $67 per adult.
Average Prices In Cagnes-sur-Mer, France
| Category | Average price (USD) |
| Budget B&B / Hotels (2) | $78–$106 per night |
| 3-star hotel | $120–$150 per night |
| Budget meal | $11.50–$35 per person |
| 3-course meal (mid-range) | $54–$108 per person |
| Fine-dining | $70–$180 per person |
| Bus / local transport | $5–$6 per day |
| Taxi ride (short) | $11–$16 per trip |
A New Tool That Will Make Traveling In France Easier This Summer
If you’re traveling to France this summer and have concerns about your budget, you’re probably wondering how much you’ll spend on tips at all the cozy brasseries and seafront eateries.
Thanks to our new European Tipping Calculator, you can check beforehand what the tipping culture is in France, how much you’re usually expected to contribute (if anything at all), and plan accordingly.
Try it for yourself here.
Vinicius Costa
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
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