TripHip - Travel Tips and Advice for Traveling on a Budget

Paris may be one of the most beautiful of European cities, with its charming moonlit side-streets, cobblestoned river-paths and 19th century architecture, but it's also one of the most expensive. A coffee at an average cafe - the quintessential Parisian gathering place - can easily cost 2 euro, while a coffee with milk - the "cafe creme" - runs an average of four. And meals aren't much cheaper - restaurants in Paris are well aware that they can charge high prices and still find ready buyers eager to taste the delectable treats of Parisian cuisine. So what is a traveler on a budget to do? Here are some tips of the trade to eat like Louis XIV on prices that won't break the bank.

1) EAT LUNCH OUT
There are several benefits to having lunch, rather than dinner, at a restaurant. It breaks up the day - especially if you have a busy or active schedule of walking and sightseeing planned. It's light enough to appreciate the views out the window. But, best of all, the menus are far less expensive - expect savings of 30-50% from the dinner menus.

2) CHOOSE THE DAILY "PRIX FIXE"
Most French restaurants have a special of the day menu, or a prix fixe menu. The best restaurants won't give you any choice - ask for "the menu of the day" and you're likely to get three sumptuous courses of whatever's best on offer for 10-15 euro. Others will provide you with a small selection of prix fixe options - these can run a tad more expensive, though. Either way, you're getting not only what's cheap, but also what's fresh, so it's well worth it.

3) SAVOR TRAITEURS
Traiteurs, or take-out, can be found on any street-corner in any form. The classic roast chicken and vegetables that you can find (the one on Rue Buci has the best chicken in Paris) is one option, or go for a Chinese or North African traiteur for spicier culinary options. Then head to a park - the Luxembourg, Tuileries, or Parc Monceau are all good options, as is the side of the Seine or the arty piazza outside the Pompidou Center - and enjoy a meal on the cheap. Or just head to a Monoprix or other grocery store for some even more low-cost bread, cheese, and fruit...