Paris is known for its delicious food and drinks. From croissants to wine, there are endless options to indulge in.
However, as a traveler, it’s important to budget for food expenses to ensure that you don’t overspend and can enjoy other activities during your trip. So, how much should you budget for food in Paris? Let’s find out.
Factors Affecting Food Budget
Before we dive into the numbers, it’s important to understand the factors that will affect your food budget in Paris.
- Location: The location of the restaurant or cafe can greatly impact the prices. Touristy areas like Champs-Élysées or Le Marais tend to have higher prices compared to less popular neighborhoods.
- Type of cuisine: Paris offers a wide range of cuisines from French to Italian and Asian.
The prices vary depending on the type of cuisine you choose.
- Time of day: Breakfast tends to be cheaper than lunch and dinner options. Also, some restaurants offer “menu du jour” (menu of the day) which is usually a fixed price menu that includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert.
- Dining style: Fine dining establishments tend to be more expensive compared to casual cafes or bistros.
Average Food Costs in Paris
Now that we know what factors can impact our food budget let’s look at some average costs.
- Coffee: A cup of coffee can cost anywhere from €1-€5 depending on where you go.
- Croissant: A typical French croissant costs around €1-€2 depending on where you buy it.
- Lunch: A casual lunch at a cafe or bistro can cost around €15-€25 for a main course and drink.
- Dinner: A nice dinner at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €30-€50 for a main course and drink.
- Wine: Wine prices vary greatly depending on the type and quality. A glass of wine can cost anywhere from €4-€20.
Tips to Save Money on Food
While it’s tempting to indulge in all the delicious food Paris has to offer, there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality.
- Eat like a local: Avoid touristy areas and dine where the locals eat. You’ll find better prices and more authentic cuisine.
- Order prix fixe menus: Many restaurants offer “menu du jour” which includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert for a fixed price. This is often cheaper than ordering items separately.
- Shop at markets: Paris has many outdoor markets where you can buy fresh produce, bread, cheese, and other items for a picnic or to make your own meals.
- Budget for one splurge meal: While it’s important to stick to a budget, budgeting for one splurge meal during your trip can be worth it for the experience.
In Conclusion
When planning your trip to Paris, it’s important to budget for food expenses. By considering location, type of cuisine, time of day, and dining style you can estimate your costs.
Remember that there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality, such as eating like a local and ordering prix fixe menus. Bon appétit!