Four Fall Getaways From Paris Under 150 Euros

Image Credit: Flickr/Tiberio Frascari

Leaving Paris doesn't have to break the bank.

Paris is filled with hustle and bustle, on the weekends it can be great for the health to get into fresher air. Whether you are a history buff or a wine enthusiast, France has many weekend getaways away from Paris to cater to your needs. Keep this in mind when you plan for your autumn break.

Honfleur

For the artistic and the laid back, Honfleur is a beautiful cobble stone street town in Normandy. Artists house their studios next to the colorful Port d’Honfleur to take in the iconic views of the boats reflecting on the water. On a sunny autumn day the water’s color illuminates the Normand style buildings lining the port. Les Galaries d’art de Honfleur inspire artists in every age range from the colorful paintings to the exquisite sculptures.

Honfleur is just 2.5 hours from Paris and is accessible by a combination of Ouibus and Bus Verts for just 28 euros round trip for students. Take Ouibus to Deauville station then take a Bus Vert 20 to the Honfleur station. Bus Vert runs every hour from Gare de Deauville. A picturesque view of this Normandy town from an Airbnb ranges around 20 euros per night. You can keep spending down by pique-niquing from the outdoor market next to Church Saint Cathrine and there are many outdoor options for picnic lovers: benches, walls lining the ports, and stairs to the docks which hosts artists and foodies alike.

Image Credit: Lillian Wagner

Dijon

Dijon is not only popular for it’s mustard. Dijon is home to a beautiful market (which yes, has mustard) but the market also has the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Dijon. This museum is situated inside of Ducal Palace in the city center and you have free entrance with your AUP student ID. Your photo opportunities are endless with backgrounds of stunning architecture and colorful backgrounds.

Maison Milliere is worthy of a visit as well: these picturesque timbered houses were refurbished in 1988 and were featured in scenes of Cyrano de Bergerac, the popular film. Ouibus will get you to the city in Cote-D’or region from Paris for 24 euros round trip. Finding Airbnb’s which fit into the price range of 25 Euros per night is a breeze as long as you plan your trip a few weeks before departure. Grab sandwiches at a local boulangerie and eat breakfast in your Airbnb to keep the travel budget sealed.

Image Credit: Flickr/llee_wu

Avignon

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur never disappoints for French weekend getaways. Avignon is a quaint town situated on the Rhone River full of history. The Pont Saint Benezet offers travelers a view that instantly becomes a favorite. The tan architecture and the blue of water flowing by attracts photographers, film makers, and artists from all professions. Place du Palais des Papes offers history buffs the opportunity to discover the Palace which started construction in 1335 and was completed in less than twenty years!

Take a stroll down Rue des Teinturiers and discover the local vendors selling things from vintage French books to exquisite smelling lavender grown in the region. Local artists are known for painting between the lines in terms of French and Italian styles. For those who appreciate architecture check out Pont du Gard just 25 minutes out of the city by public transport. Pont du Gard is a UNESCO World Heritage site and its breath taking to see the bridge standing today which was built in 1AD.

To discover Avignon take Ouibus from Paris at 40 euros round trip. Airbnb’s range from 15 euros per night in the off season (October-June). Eat local specialties from the town outdoor market and keep budget low by supplying your alcohol needs from grocery stores.

Image Credit: Flickr/Bernard Blanc

Bordeaux

The wine capital Bordeaux is the perfect getaway for 38 euros round trip with Ouibus. You can get a taste of what Bordeaux offers other than just wine. Enchanting shops such as Mulot et Petitjean line the streets, which houses tons of darling souvenirs to take home to all of your friends. Place de la Bourse is located in the city center which is one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful squares. The Water Mirror is another favorite for tourists. Located across from Place de la Bourse, this spectacular pool, designed by landscape artist Michel Corajoud, alternates a mirror effect and artificial misting in an original way.

At the end of a long day walking through the wine capital check out a short wine tasting sessions starting from 7 euros. Find your housing options from 20 euros per night next to the Public Gardens. Take a trip across the Garonne River on the Pont de Pierre to have a picnic in the Parc aux Angéliques. By taking picnics you keep your travel expenses under 150 Euros.

Image Credit: Flickr/Francesvirtual

What are you waiting for? Get out there!