Travellers in France Can Explore Visa Free including Morocco, Albania, Turkey and Thailand if They Are Tight on Budget and Amazing Travel Hacks on Hotels, Currency Conversion and Flights

Published on November 3, 2025

In 2025, French passport holders seeking ultra-low-cost international travel can explore destinations like Morocco, Albania, Turkey, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and Nepal, all offering visa-free or low-cost entry, affordable flights, and minimal daily expenses. These countries combine cheap accommodation, low-cost street food, and inexpensive local transport, making them ideal for travelers facing budget constraints. In Morocco, round-trip flights from France can be under €50, with hostel stays and meals totaling less than €25 per day. Albania offers stunning landscapes, visa-free access, and daily costs under €23. Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Vietnam, provides rich culture and tropical beauty for around €25–€30 per day. India and Nepal are among the cheapest, with full daily budgets often under €20, though visa fees apply. These regions offer strong value, safety, and reliable infrastructure for French travelers facing travel issues, economic limits, or rising visa restrictions in other parts of the world. Each destination balances affordability with unforgettable cultural depth and minimal crime.

Below is an overview of top picks, with typical costs for flights, accommodation, food, and more:

(Costs are estimates for shoestring travel – staying in hostels, eating local food, using public transport, and focusing on free/cheap activities. “Daily Budget” is per person, excluding international airfare.)

Below, we dive into each destination with more detail and tips:

Morocco – Budget Backpacking in North Africa 🇲🇦

Why it’s great: Morocco is one of the cheapest getaways outside Europe, with the bonus of visa-free entry for up to 90 days[2]. It’s popular among budget travelers for its vibrant culture (bustling souks, Sahara dunes, Atlas Mountains) and affordable travel network (buses, trains, hostels).

Flights: Thanks to low-cost carriers, flights from France to Morocco are extraordinarily cheap. Round-trip fares from Paris to Marrakech or Fez can be found for as little as €40–€100[1]. For example, the cheapest Paris–Marrakech return flight recently cost just $45 (~€42)[1] – basically the price of a meal in Paris! Even a more typical fare around $100 (€90) is a bargain for a 3-hour international flight. With budget airlines (Transavia, Ryanair, etc.) servicing routes to Moroccan cities, French travelers on a shoestring can often snag deals if they are flexible with dates (mid-week, off-season)[29].

Visas: No visa needed – just pack your passport. French citizens get 90 days visa-free in Morocco[2], keeping things simple and cheap (no visa fees).

Accommodation: Morocco has a well-developed hostel and guesthouse scene. In Marrakech, Fez, and other tourist hubs, hostel dorm beds average around 100–120 MAD (Moroccan dirhams) per night (roughly €8–10) – and can be even less in off-season. Nomadic Matt’s Morocco guide suggests 285 MAD/day covers a backpacker’s total daily needs[3], implying dorms around €8–10. In fact, hostels are so affordable that two travelers reported averaging $36.17 per person per day including accommodation[30] – and that was while traveling together (often splitting privates), so solo dorms can be even cheaper. Budget hotels (private rooms in guesthouses or riads) are also inexpensive: ~270–410 MAD (€25–€38) for a basic private room[31] if you prefer privacy.

Food: You can feast on Moroccan cuisine for just a few euros a day. Authentic street food and market eats are both delicious and dirt cheap. Breakfast might be a mint tea and msemen (flatbread) for 5–10 MAD (€0.50–€0.90). For lunch or dinner, a filling street-side tagine or couscous plate can cost 20–50 MAD (€2–€4). Even sitting down at a local diner won’t break the bank – Moroccan lunches/dinners often cost only $2–$4 (20–40 MAD) for hearty portions[7]. Travelers consistently report that $30 USD (~€27) per day is plenty for food and lodging if you stick to hostels and street eats[4]. In other words, €8 for lodging + €8 for meals + €5 for local transport + a cushion for extras easily fits in a ~€25/day budget.

Transport: Getting around inside Morocco is affordable. Intercity trains and buses are a great value – for example, the train from Casablanca to Marrakech (3 hours) is around 150–200 MAD (~€13–€18). A bus across the country (e.g. Marrakech to Fez) might be ~€20 or less. In town, local buses or shared grands taxis cost only a few dirhams. Even petit taxi rides within cities like Marrakesh often cost under 20 MAD (€1.80) if metered (always ask to use the meter or agree on a fare). Transportation will likely be a minor part of your budget (a few euros per day) given how low fares are.

Activities: Many of Morocco’s highlights are either free or low-cost. Wandering the colorful medinas costs nothing (besides perhaps a few dirhams to sample street snacks or tip guides). Historic sites and museums charge modest entry fees – e.g. Volubilis, a UNESCO-listed Roman ruin, costs 70 MAD (≈€6) for admission[32]. A guided half-day city tour might run €10–€15 per person if you haggle or join a group. Even bucket-list experiences can be done cheaply: group camel treks in the Sahara with an overnight camp can be found for well under €100 per person for a 2-day/1-night excursion (shop around in Merzouga or Zagora). Safety note: Morocco is generally safe for tourists, though petty scams and harassment can occur in touristy areas. Use common sense (especially if you’re a solo female – dress modestly, avoid empty alleys at night, etc.)[33][34]. Overall, it’s “unlikely to ever be in real physical danger”[33], and millions of budget travelers enjoy Morocco each year – just keep your wits about you as you would in any busy city.

How long? Morocco is ideal for short budget trips because of the ultra-cheap flights. You can fly there and spend a week or two for only a few hundred euros in total. For example, two travelers spent 12 days in Morocco at about $36 (€33) per person per day[30], which comes out to ~€400 each for nearly 2 weeks on the ground. Adding a ~€60 flight deal, a solo traveler could feasibly do a 10–14 day trip for ~€500 all-in. With €1000, you could travel close to a month in Morocco if you’re frugal. The key is that low daily costs allow your money to stretch far. Even if you only have a long weekend, Morocco is viable – you might spend as little as €150–€200 total for a 4-day getaway, flights included, by using hostel dorms and local food. Few places offer such a rich experience for so little money so close to Europe!

Albania (Balkans) – Europe’s Hidden Bargain 🇦🇱

Why it’s great: Albania remains one of the cheapest destinations in Europe[35][36], often even cheaper than parts of Southeast Asia in terms of day-to-day expenses. It’s visa-exempt for French citizens (90 days) and relatively safe/stable. Despite being less developed in parts, Albania has a growing backpacker infrastructure – hostels, tour operators, and bus routes – especially in places like Tirana, Shkodër, and the Albanian Riviera. You get beautiful Mediterranean beaches, stunning mountain landscapes (the Accursed Mountains), and fascinating Ottoman-era towns at a fraction of Western Europe prices.

Flights: Direct flights from France to Albania have become more frequent and affordable. From Paris, you can fly into Tirana (TIA) for around €100–€200 round-trip if you shop around. In fact, the best deals are much lower: recent data showed round-trip Paris–Tirana fares for about $96 (~€90) at the lowest end[5]. Budget airlines like Wizz Air and Transavia have occasionally offered one-way tickets as cheap as $40–50 (€35–45) from Paris (often via secondary airports or with a short stop)[37][38]. For example, Paris-Orly to Tirana can be found for $111 round-trip next month[39], and one-way deals in winter have popped up at $45–$80[40][41]. Aim for off-peak months (January, March) for sub-€100 returns[42][43]. Even in summer, you might pay €150–€200, which is still reasonable for a 2.5-hour flight. The bottom line: getting to Albania is no longer expensive, making it a top choice for euro-pinching travelers who want to leave the EU.

Visas: No visa needed for French visitors – just show your passport/ID. Albania allows 90 days visa-free[6] (and accepts EU national ID cards too). Fewer bureaucratic hurdles = more spontaneity and savings.

Accommodation: Albania is startlingly cheap by European standards. You can easily find hostel dorm beds for around $10 USD (€9) per night[7] in Tirana or Shkodër. For instance, a bed in a well-rated Tirana hostel might be 1,000–1,500 Lek (Albanian lek) – that’s €9–€13. Even in coastal Saranda or Ksamil (peak season), dorms are often under €15. Private accommodation is also affordable: a simple guesthouse or B&B room can be found for ~€20–€30 per night in many towns. The Indie Traveller guide notes hostel dorms ~ $10 and private hotel rooms ~ $25 in Albania[7]. Many hostels include free breakfast too. If you’re really scraping by, Albania is hospitable to camping – and even wild camping is tolerated in some beach and mountain areas (just use common sense). Bottom line: €10–€12 covers a night’s stay in most of Albania, which is amazingly low for Europe.

Food: Albanian cuisine is both delicious and insanely cheap. Local bakeries sell byrek (flaky spinach or cheese pies) for 30–60 lek (€0.25–€0.50). A hearty sit-down meal at a casual restaurant – think grilled meat or fresh fish with sides – might cost only 300–500 lek (€2.50–€4.30). In rural areas, even less. Indie Traveller reports that a good lunch or dinner can be as low as $2–$4 USD[7] – which matches these figures. For example, in the capital Tirana you can get a bowl of goulash or plate of mantı (dumplings) for €2–€3, or a massive Italian-influenced dinner (pizza or pasta, reflecting Albania’s Mediterranean taste) for under €5. Groceries are inexpensive too: self-catering could be done on just a few euros per day (local fruits, bread, cheese are bargains). Beer is cheap (€1–€1.50 for a draft), and even Albania’s coffee culture will please your wallet – an espresso often costs 50 Lek (€0.40). You might end up spending more only because everything is so tempting! But strictly speaking, €5–€8 per day can feed you very well here, which is astounding.

Transport: Within Albania, expect some adventure – public transport is mostly via furgon (minibuses) and coaches, since there’s limited rail. The good news: it’s ultra-cheap. An average furgon ride between cities (say Tirana to Berat, ~2 hours) might cost 500–600 lek (€4–€5). Even the longer routes (like Tirana–Saranda, ~7 hours) are usually under €15. Shared taxis within cities cost pocket change (a few lek; many locals just walk given city sizes). There are also new cheap bus lines connecting the Balkans – for example, you can hop to neighboring Kosovo or North Macedonia for €10–€15 one-way. Transportation costs thus won’t weigh much on your budget (perhaps €2–€5 per day on average). Note that schedules can be a bit ad-hoc – factor some flexibility/time. Also, car rentals are relatively inexpensive if splitting costs with friends (but roads can be rough in spots).

Activities: Albania’s best experiences are largely free: hiking in the Albanian Alps (just pay a few euros for park fees or local guides if needed), wandering UNESCO-listed Ottoman towns like Gjirokastër and Berat (castle entry fees maybe 200–400 lek, i.e. €1.50–€3.50). The new Vjosa Wild River National Park (Europe’s first wild river park, established 2023) offers rafting and kayaking – organized excursions are very reasonable (around €30–€40 per person for a day trip) given the unique experience[44]. Beach days on the Riviera cost almost nothing (maybe rent an umbrella for €5). Museum tickets in Tirana are often 200 lek (€1.70) or so. Overall, a modest activities budget (say €5–€10/day) will allow you to enjoy plenty – from exploring castles and bunkers to taking public ferries (the famous Komani Lake ferry is ~$10).

Safety & infrastructure: Albania is generally safe – violent crime toward tourists is rare. You might encounter the occasional travel inconvenience (e.g. irregular bus timetables or power outages in remote areas), but nothing unmanageable. The tourism infrastructure, while not as polished as Western Europe, is improving fast. Backpacker hostels get good reviews, and many locals (especially younger Albanians) speak a bit of English or Italian, making travel easier. Do be prepared for limited public transit in off-the-beaten-path areas – sometimes you’ll rely on hitchhiking or private transfers, but those can be adventures in themselves.

How long? Because Albania is so cheap day-to-day, the longer you stay, the more value you get – especially since airfare is a moderate fixed cost. A two-week trip can be done incredibly cheaply: e.g. ~€23/day[8] → ~€322 for 14 days on the ground, plus ~€120 flight, totals around €450. Even adding splurges, you might come in under €500 for two weeks. With a €1000 budget, you could travel a month or more in Albania with ease. Many backpackers actually end up extending their stay because their money goes so far. If you only have a week, that’s fine too – you might spend mere €200–€250 in a week (not counting flights) given how low prices are. In summary, Albania lets you travel longer for less. It’s perfect for French travelers who want an exotic European experience (mountains, beaches, history) without the West European prices.

(Note: Neighboring Balkan countries offer similar affordability. For example, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia are only slightly pricier than Albania – a backpacker can get by on ~$30/day or less[45][46]. French passport holders enjoy visa-free access throughout the Balkans, making multi-country bus loops feasible. Albania is highlighted here as an exemplar, but the entire region is a goldmine for budget travel.)

Türkiye (Turkey) – Low-Cost East-Meets-West 🇹🇷

Why it’s great: Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers an incredible travel experience – from the cultural riches of Istanbul to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia and turquoise Turquoise Coast – at prices far below Western Europe. French travelers do not need a visa (90 days free)[10], and the country has decades of tourism infrastructure making it easy to get around on a budget. In recent years, Turkey’s currency (the lira) has fluctuated, leading to higher local prices, but for visitors spending euros, it’s still a bargain by global standards[47]. In 2024 inflation spiked, yet the exchange rate shifted such that costs in EUR/USD remain quite reasonable for travelers[48][49]. In short, Turkey is no longer the rock-bottom deal it was a few years ago, but it remains very affordable compared to France or even nearby Greece[47].

Flights: Thanks to Turkey’s popularity and competitive airlines, flights from France are relatively cheap. It’s easy to find round-trip flights from Paris to Istanbul in the €150–€250 range. For example, Expedia lists Paris→Istanbul returns starting around $223 (~€205)[50], and Kayak noted the cheapest recent RT on Paris–Istanbul (IST) was $177 (~€165)[9]. Prices can dip even lower with budget airlines (Pegasus, Transavia, etc.) or sales – it’s not uncommon to see sub-€150 round-trips outside of peak summer. Secondary airports like Paris-Beauvais to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen can yield great deals (Beauvais is served by low-cost carriers). As a French traveler, you might also consider flying one leg from a neighboring country: e.g. Transavia out of Nantes or EasyJet from Basel, if those are convenient, since sometimes they run promotions. But overall, flying to Turkey is quite affordable – about the same or even less than flying to many EU destinations, given the intense competition. (Also, note Turkey has multiple international gateways – Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Antalya, etc. – and it can be worth checking all options. Skyscanner data shows shoulder-season flights around €100–€130 into Istanbul or Antalya are attainable[51][52].)

Visas: Visa not required for French citizens[10]. You can enter Turkey with just your passport (in fact, Turkey even allows French nationals to enter on a valid national ID card for now). No fees or pre-trip paperwork needed.

Accommodation: Turkey’s accommodation gives you excellent value. Hostels exist all over (Istanbul, Cappadocia, coastal towns, etc.) and are much cheaper than in Western Europe. According to one travel budget analysis, you can expect to pay around $18–25 per night for a hostel dorm bed in most places in Turkey (even Istanbul)[11]. That’s roughly €16–€23. Outside of the peak summer in Istanbul, dorm beds can be closer to $15. In smaller cities or off-season, I’ve seen dorms for $8–$12. For example, hostel beds in Antalya or Izmir can go for €10–€15 even in summer. An average across the country is around $16 (≃€15) for a dorm[53]. If you prefer more privacy, budget guesthouses and pensions are plentiful and inexpensive: a double room in a clean, basic guesthouse might be $50–$75 (€45–€70) per night[11] (so split between two it’s €22–€35 each). In less-touristy locales, you can find private rooms for €25–€30. Also, Turkey offers some alternative cheap stays – e.g. overnight buses and trains (saves a night’s accommodation), or even Couchsurfing, which has a strong community in Turkey[54] (free lodging with locals, if you’re up for cultural exchange). Overall, if you’re sticking to dorms, budget ~€15–€20 per night for lodging in Turkey – you’ll often pay less.

Food: Turkish food is both high-quality and budget-friendly – a huge win for travelers. Eating local will keep your costs very low. Street food and quick bites (which are delicious in Turkey) cost only a few euros: e.g. a simit (bagel-like bread) on the street is 5 TL (< €0.20 at recent rates), a ** döner kebab wrap might be 30–40 TL (~€1.50) in a non-touristy area, and a serving of çay (tea) is maybe 3–5 TL (€0.15). Even sitting down at a casual eatery is cheap: a traditional Turkish breakfast spread (bread, cheese, olives, egg, etc.) might run €3–€5 per person – and that’s a feast. Typical local lunches/dinners (e.g. a hearty portion of kebap with rice and salad) can be found for 50–100 TL, roughly €2.50–€5. In many coastal towns, fresh fish dinners are a bit more but still reasonable (maybe €8–€10 for a full meal). If you love snacks, a must-try is street roasted chestnuts or corn for a couple lira, or baklava pieces at maybe 5 TL each. One thing to note: alcohol is comparatively expensive in Turkey due to high taxes[55] – a beer might cost 30–40 TL (€1.50–€2 in store, ~€3–€4 in a bar) which is pricier relative to other items, and imported wines/liquors are higher. If you’re on a tight budget, go easy on alcoholic drinks (or stick to the occasional local Efes beer despite its mediocre taste[55]). Non-alcoholic drinks like ayran (yogurt drink) or Turkish coffee are very cheap (a coffee might be 20 TL = €1). Bottom line: A budget traveler could eat three filling local meals a day in Turkey for €6–€10 total if they stick to street food or lokantas (cafeterias). Even indulging in restaurant meals, it’s feasible to keep your food spend under ~€10–€12 per day** and not feel deprived. Many hostels also have kitchens if you want to cook, but given street food is so cheap, you might not need to – still, cooking occasionally could cut costs further.

Transport: Turkey is a large country, but transport is efficient and cheap. Intercity buses are fantastic: modern, comfortable, and very affordable. For example, a 10-hour overnight bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia might cost around 300 TL (€15). Shorter routes (3–4 hours) are often 100–150 TL (€5–€8). There are multiple bus companies (Pamukkale, Metro, etc.) and you can shop for the best price; competition keeps fares low. Trains exist on some routes (e.g. Istanbul–Ankara high-speed train, or regional trains in the west) and are also cheap (comparable to bus prices or less). Within cities, public transit like Istanbul’s ferries, trams, and metros cost just a few lira per ride (a metro token in Istanbul is ~15 TL, €0.70). Taxis in cities can add up, but apps like BiTaksi or Uber (in Istanbul) help you avoid being overcharged; still, for budgeteers, public transit and walking are preferable. Notably, domestic flights inside Turkey can be very low-cost if booked in advance – sometimes as cheap as €20–€30 one-way on Pegasus or Turkish Airlines promo, which can save time on long distances. However, if you’re pinching pennies, the overnight bus (with a free tea service onboard!) is the classic choice and doubles as accommodation for the night. Expect transportation to be a modest part of your budget – you might average €3–€5 per day over a trip if you move locations a few times. If you stick mostly to one region, even less. Also, consider rideshares like BlaBlaCar, which operate in Turkey and can cut costs on intercity trips if you find a local driver heading your way.

Activities: Turkey offers a mix of free and paid attractions, most of which are quite affordable by international standards. Visiting historical sites typically costs a few euros. For example, entrance to the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is free (it’s a functioning mosque now), while the Topkapı Palace museum ticket is 320 TL (~€15) for full access – one of the more expensive attractions. Many smaller museums in Istanbul are 50–100 TL (€2.50–€5). In Cappadocia, visiting the open-air museum (rock churches) costs around 150 TL (~€7). A guided tour of the underground cities might be €20–€30. However, you can experience a lot without spending much: hiking through Cappadocia’s valleys or Pamukkale’s travertine pools (entry ~€10) are low-cost highlights. Group tours (like a full-day tour in Cappadocia or Pamukkale) usually run $30–$50 with lunch included. Hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia are the one big budget buster (~€150+ per person), so those on ultra-budget will likely skip it – but you can watch the balloons launch at sunrise for free, which is magical. Beaches on the Med coast are free to enjoy (some charge a small fee for sunbed/umbrella rental). A Bosphorus ferry ride in Istanbul is only a few euros and doubles as a scenic cruise. So, aside from a few pricy experiences, you can fill your days with inexpensive activities. It’s wise to allocate maybe €5–€10 per day for sightseeing on average (since some days you spend nothing, just wandering bazaars or hiking, and other days you pay for a museum or tour).

Safety & tips: Turkey is a very tourist-friendly country and generally safe. Millions of Europeans visit yearly with few issues. Still, in crowded Istanbul, watch out for pickpockets in tourist areas (as you would in Paris). In smaller cities and rural areas, crime is minimal and locals are often extremely hospitable. Political demonstrations can occur, but as a tourist it’s easy to steer clear. The biggest annoyance might be touts in touristy districts – e.g. the infamous carpet sales pitches or overly friendly “come have tea at my shop” invitations – just decline politely and move on. Solo female travelers may get some unwanted attention, but Turkey is overall easier than some other countries in that regard; dressing modestly and projecting confidence helps (and many women travel solo there successfully by sticking to well-traveled circuits and accommodations with good reviews). Infrastructure is modern – you’ll find ATMs everywhere, and Wi-Fi in hostels/cafes is commonplace.

How long? Turkey rewards longer stays, but if your budget is extremely tight, a shorter visit might make sense to limit total spending (since daily costs, while low, are higher than say India or SE Asia). On around €45/day[56], you could manage a 2-week trip for roughly €630 on-ground. Add ~€180 for flights, and that’s ~€800 for 14 days. With careful choices (cheaper dorms, street food, slow travel), you might push daily costs down to €35 and do two weeks closer to €650 total including flight. Many travelers, however, choose to spend 10 days to 2 weeks in Turkey to cover Istanbul + a couple regions. If you have a higher budget or more time, a month in Turkey is fantastic and still cheaper than a week in some Western countries – but at ~$50/day it would be about $1500 (€1350) plus airfare. For an ultra-budget French traveler, I’d recommend 7–10 days in Turkey focusing on one or two regions (e.g. Istanbul + Cappadocia, or Istanbul + Ephesus + Pamukkale) to keep transport costs down. That could be done for maybe €400–€500 total pretty comfortably. If you have more to spend or time to spare, 2–3 weeks would let you see a lot (maybe Istanbul → Cappadocia → Mediterranean coast) for on the order of €700–€800. Remember, Turkey is significantly cheaper than France for day-to-day living – so every additional day you travel there, you’re likely spending far less than you would back home, which is a good argument for stretching your trip if you can afford the time.

Thailand (and Southeast Asia) – Stretch Your Euro in the Tropics 🇹🇭🇻🇳🇱🇦🇰🇭

Why it’s great: For decades, Southeast Asia has been synonymous with budget travel – and even in 2025, it remains perhaps the best region to stretch a tiny budget. In particular, Thailand and its neighbors Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia offer French travelers an exotic, adventure-packed experience at rock-bottom prices. These countries are extremely backpacker-friendly: they have a well-worn tourist trail, abundant hostels and guesthouses, cheap domestic transport, and a reputation for safety and hospitality. Many parts of SE Asia are cheaper than staying home – you might spend under €30 a day comfortably. As one Reddit summary put it, “Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, offer a budget-friendly travel experience with excellent infrastructure and pleasant weather.”[57] Indeed, you’ll find it easy to get around, with plenty of English spoken in tourist areas and services catering to shoestring travelers. For French citizens, visa rules are generous: Thailand and Malaysia allow visa-free stays (Thai visa waiver recently extended to 60 days[14]), Vietnam now offers 45 days visa-free[18], and Laos/Cambodia offer eVisas or visas-on-arrival at low cost. In short, Southeast Asia is a prime candidate when your budget is “unthinkably low” but you crave a far-flung experience.

Let’s focus on Thailand and Vietnam as two exemplary destinations (with notes on Laos/Cambodia), since they consistently rank among the cheapest travel destinations on earth:

Thailand (especially Northern Thailand) 🇹🇭

Flights: Flying from France to Thailand is the biggest upfront expense, but deals can be found. A typical round-trip Paris–Bangkok flight ranges from €500–€700, but intrepid travelers often snag fares around €450–€500 by traveling off-peak. For example, statistics show Paris–Bangkok flights can go as low as €450 round-trip in certain months[13][58] (with one or two stops on carriers like Gulf Air, Oman Air, etc.). In late 2025, some Paris-BKK itineraries were advertised around €332–€355 in sales[59][17] – though those may involve long layovers. If you’re flexible on dates and can fly in shoulder or low season (May, September, or November), you’re likely to find sub-€600 fares[60][13]. Consider departing from Paris or even Marseille; sometimes regional airports have deals via hub airports. Also check multi-city options (e.g. fly into Bangkok, out of a different SE Asian city) if you plan to roam the region. Bottom line: allocate ~€500 for a flight, but know that’s the bulk of your expense – once you land in Thailand, costs plummet.

Visas: Visa-free for French travelers – as of 2023/24, Thailand extended its visa-exempt stay to 60 days for many nationalities[14] (previously 30 days). This means you can spend nearly two months without any visa hassle or cost. (If you wanted to stay longer, you could pay for an extension or do a visa run, but on an ultra-low budget, most stick to the free period.) Neighboring countries are also easy: e.g. Vietnam now gives 45 days visa-free to French passport holders[18] (thanks to a 2023 policy change), Malaysia 90 days free, Laos/Cambodia around $30 for a visa on arrival or eVisa. In short, visas won’t eat into your budget much, if at all, in this region.

Accommodation: Thailand’s cost of accommodation varies by region, but it’s uniformly cheap compared to Europe. In Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Pai, Chiang Rai, etc.), you hit the absolute low end: you can find basic hostel dorms for as little as $5–$7 per night[61][62]. In Chiang Mai, for example, dorm beds start around 200 THB (Thai baht), which is ~€5.50, at well-rated hostels – some even include a simple breakfast. Indie Traveller confirms “amid the rice fields of Chiang Mai, you can find dorm beds from $6”[15]. Even in Bangkok or the southern islands, dorms are often ฿250–฿400 (€7–€11), especially if you avoid the very touristy party spots. A mid-range budget in Thailand (if you wanted a private room) might be $30–$40/day including a nicer guesthouse[63] – but for ultra-budget, stick to dorms or fan rooms in guesthouses (in small towns, you can get a private fan room for €8–€12). In summary, €5–€10 per night is enough for accommodation in most of Thailand outside the peak tourist zones. Note: In the Thai Islands (Phuket, Koh Samui, etc.), prices can double or triple compared to the north – but since we’re focusing on extreme budget, you might limit time in the islands or choose cheaper ones (e.g. Ko Lanta or Ko Chang rather than pricey Phuket). Even on islands, dorms can be found ~€10–€15. Many travelers on tight budgets actually base themselves in Chiang Mai or Pai, where you get amazing value for money – numerous hostels, cheap food, and a large backpacker community.

Food: Thai street food is world-famous and amazingly cheap. You can honestly eat for €5 or less per day if you stick to the local street stalls! A typical street meal – say pad thai or a noodle soup – costs around ฿40–฿60 in non-touristy areas[61][62], which is roughly €1.20–€1.70. Even in Bangkok, in areas like Chinatown or around universities, you’ll find tasty dishes for under 70 baht (€2). Some exact examples: bemytravelmuse notes “soup with rice noodles, cilantro, amazing broth, and a whole shank of pork for $1.50” in Vietnam[64] – and Thailand is similar, a bowl of boat noodles or jok (rice porridge) often costs under $1. Thai street snacks like spring rolls, satay skewers, or fresh fruit are often ฿10–฿20 (under €0.50) each. You can fill up on a hearty curry with rice for ฿50–฿80 (€1.50–€2.50) at a simple eatery. Importantly, eating local is key – Western food or restaurants in tourist zones will charge more (still cheaper than France, but maybe €5-€8 for a meal which is a lot by local standards). Fortunately, why would you eat pasta when you can have delicious pad kra pao or mango sticky rice for a fraction of the price? 😀 In many hostels, breakfast is included (simple toast/fruit/coffee)[65][66], which further reduces costs. Let’s also mention that drinks are cheap if you avoid fancy bars: a fruit smoothie on the street is like ฿30–฿50 (€1), a large Chang beer in a 7-Eleven is maybe ฿60–฿70 (€1.80). The one caution: alcohol at bars or cocktails can add up, and in some countries like Malaysia it’s heavily taxed, but in Thailand moderate drinking won’t break the bank (a beer at a bar maybe €2–€3). Many budget travelers party modestly or buy from stores to keep costs down. All told, you can splurge on Thai street food and still struggle to spend €10 in a day. It’s not uncommon to hear travelers say “I spent $5–$7 total on food today and ate like a king.”

Transportation: Getting around Thailand (and SE Asia) cheaply is very doable. Local transport: In cities like Bangkok, public buses cost pennies (฿15–฿20 a ride, €0.50), and the modern BTS/MRT metro in Bangkok is also affordable (maybe €1 per ride). Tuk-tuks are fun but you must haggle – they often quote tourists high prices, so as an ultra-budget traveler you might mostly avoid them or share rides. Motorbike taxis (on apps like GrabBike) are incredibly cheap: in Vietnam, app rides were as low as $0.50 for 2 km[67]. In Thailand, GrabBike or local equivalent similarly might cost ฿50 (€1.5) for a short ride – a great bargain to zip through city traffic (just be sure to wear a helmet!). Intercity travel: Thailand’s buses and trains are famously cheap. A 10–12 hour overnight bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai can be found for ฿500–฿700 (€14–€20) depending on class. That doubles as a night’s accommodation too! The regular day trains are even cheaper (3rd class from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is under €1, though hard seats). Many backpackers opt for 2nd class sleeper trains for comfort, which might cost ฿800–฿1000 (€22–€28) for a long route. Within the north, buses from Chiang Mai to Pai (3-4 hours up mountain roads) are about ฿150 (€4). In short, you won’t spend much moving around. Renting a scooter in Thailand is another budget-friendly option to explore locally: in Chiang Mai or Pai, for example, a motorbike rental is about ฿150–฿250 per day (€5–€7)[65][68] – splitting with a friend makes it even cheaper. Fuel costs negligible amounts (gas is subsidized in some places). One caution: only rent a motorbike if you have experience and an appropriate license/insurance, as accidents can be costly in more ways than one. If you stick to public transit, plan on maybe €1–€4 per travel day on average – really low. One can traverse all of Thailand north to south for under €50 in total transport cost if using buses/trains. Crossing into neighboring countries by land is similarly cheap (e.g. a bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap, Cambodia is ~€25 including visa assistance).

Activities: In Thailand, many fantastic experiences are free or cheap. Temples (wats) are usually free to enter or ask a very small donation (the famous ones in Bangkok like Wat Pho charge around ฿200, ~€5). National parks charge foreigners an entrance fee (e.g. Khao Yai NP is ฿400 ~ €11), but if you love hiking you might spend days just walking in the mountains or swimming at free waterfalls. A day of beach lounging costs nothing (maybe the cost of a coconut 🥥 for €1). Popular tours like an island-hopping tour in Krabi or a trekking tour in Chiang Mai area might cost ฿1000–฿1500 (€25–€40) for a full day including food – not bad, but those on extreme budgets sometimes skip guided tours and do DIY exploring or join cheaper group excursions arranged via hostels. One splurge might be scuba diving (Thailand is one of the cheapest places to get PADI certified, but it’s still a few hundred euros for a course). If that’s out of budget, snorkeling or just enjoying free nature is still great. Thai massages, by the way, are a cultural activity and very affordable – an hour traditional massage in Chiang Mai can be found for ฿250–฿300 (€7–€8). That could be a lovely cheap “activity” to treat yourself after trekking. Cooking classes, Muay Thai matches, elephant sanctuary visits – these are popular but vary in price (€20–€80). As a budget traveler, you’ll likely prioritize the many low-cost joys: exploring night markets (free unless you shop), joining free walking tours in cities, hiking up viewpoints, etc. Many backpackers on €20–€25/day budgets end up picking maybe one paid excursion per week and doing free stuff otherwise. In summary, you can fill your days in Thailand with memorable experiences without spending a lot. Allocate a small buffer (say €5/day average) for paid admissions or occasional tours, and you’ll be fine.

Safety & culture: Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles” and is generally very safe for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare; you’re more likely to encounter the odd scam (e.g. the classic “temple is closed, come see my friend’s shop” tuk-tuk scam in Bangkok) – which you can avoid by staying informed. Petty theft is uncommon but use lockers in hostels and be mindful in crowded markets. Health-wise, do take usual precautions (food is generally safe from street vendors with high turnover, just avoid raw tap water and peel fruits). Traffic can be a hazard (look both ways carefully – traffic patterns are different and often chaotic). Culturally, Thai people are friendly and accustomed to tourists; showing respect (e.g. modest dress at temples, not raising your voice) will win you points. As a French traveler, you may find the climate and culture very different – but that’s part of the adventure, and backpacker hubs like Chiang Mai or Bangkok’s Khao San Road are full of like-minded travelers and locals who cater to them. The well-trodden backpacker circuit means you’re never far from help or companionship if you want it.

How long? Once you’ve paid for the flight, staying longer in Thailand (and SE Asia) actually makes your average cost per day plummet. Many travelers with very tight budgets plan 1–3 month journeys in SE Asia because their savings go so much further there than in Europe. For instance, if you spend €500 on a flight but only €25 per day in Thailand, a 4-week trip (28 days) would cost about €500 + (€25×28) = €1,200. But a 2-week trip would be €500 + (€25×14) = €850, making your average daily cost higher due to the fixed flight cost. Thus, the longer you can travel in Thailand, the more you “get for your money.” On an “unthinkably” low budget, I’d suggest aiming for at least 3 weeks if you can get the time off – that way the €500 flight is spread out and you might average around €40/day total including flight. If you only have a week, it’s still doable (some do 7–10 day holidays with ~€600 budget), but you’ll feel the pinch more in terms of flight cost proportion. With, say, €1000–€1200 to spare, you could easily travel a full month in Thailand and maybe even hop to a neighbor like Laos or Cambodia as well. In fact, many backpackers budget $30/day and manage multi-month trips across SE Asia[69][19]. As a French traveler, you could conceivably spend 2 months traveling through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia on a €2000 budget, which is extraordinary value – some people spend more than that in 2 weeks in Western Europe! If your budget is extremely tight (say a few hundred euros), you might opt for a shorter trip in one country to minimize transport and focus on ultra-cheap areas. For example, €500 could fund ~2 weeks in Northern Thailand (e.g. Chiang Mai/Pai loop) including a discounted flight, since daily costs up north can be under €20 if you’re frugal. In summary, Southeast Asia is ideal for longer-duration travel on a tiny budget. Go as long as you can; you will rarely find a place where your money stretches farther while still delivering such rich experiences.

(Note:  Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia are equally enticing for budget travelers. Vietnam in particular is worth highlighting – it has seen a steady increase in its exchange rate favorability[70] and remains incredibly cheap: street food meals for $1 and dorm beds $5 are common[64][19]. French passport holders now get 45 days visa-free in Vietnam[18], making it easy to explore. A traveler reported “the healthiest and cheapest street food in Vietnam… soup with pork for $1.50, coffee for $1”[64], and GrabBike rides for $0.50[67], illustrating just how low daily costs can be. Backpacker budgets around $25–$30 per day are sufficient in Vietnam[71][69] – similar to Thailand. Cambodia and Laos are slightly less developed but also very cheap: you can get by on $25/day in Cambodia (dorms $5–$15, meals $5–$10)[72][73] and around $25/day in Laos[74]. Notably, Cambodia recently slashed its tourist e-visa fee from $36 to $30 as of Jan 2025[75] to attract travelers, and it offers 30 days on arrival for French citizens. Laos offers 15 days visa-free to French (and cheap visas for longer). These countries are slightly more challenging due to infrastructure, but absolutely doable for ultra-budget travelers and widely regarded as friendly, safe destinations. In all, Southeast Asia as a whole should be on the radar for anyone wanting maximum travel for minimum money.)

India (and Nepal) – Ultra-Cheap Adventures in South Asia 🇮🇳🇳🇵

Why it’s great: If your budget is truly minimal, India is legendary as one of the cheapest travel destinations on the planet[76]. Nepal, its Himalayan neighbor, is similarly inexpensive. Both offer rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and diverse experiences that cost very little by Western standards. For French travelers, they are a bit further afield (flights cost more than to Africa or Eastern Europe), but once you arrive, the day-to-day expenses are astonishingly low – often well under €25 a day for everything. These countries are popular backpacker havens (especially India’s classic routes and Nepal’s trekking trails), so despite the distance you’ll find budget hostels, guesthouses, and traveler services in most tourist areas. English is widely spoken in India (and used in Nepal’s tourism sector), which helps in getting around. Safety-wise, both countries require travelers to use common sense (especially solo female travelers in India need to take precautions), but thousands of budget travelers traverse them each year. If you’re willing to embrace a bit of chaos and adventure, India and Nepal can be the ultimate bang-for-buck destinations – where even a couple hundred euros can fund weeks of travel.

Flights: A round-trip flight from France to India typically ranges €500–€700 in economy, depending on sales and season. Paris to Delhi or Mumbai is often on the lower end (~€500–€600 with one stop in the Gulf), while Paris to smaller Indian cities might be higher. Sometimes you can find promotional fares around €450–€500 if you’re lucky (e.g. Gulf Air, Qatar Airways sales). For Nepal (Kathmandu), flights are a bit more ($600–$800, roughly €550–€750), often routing through the Middle East or India. One trick some budget travelers use is flying to Delhi (cheaper, big hub) then taking a low-cost flight or train into Nepal. For instance, you could fly Paris–Delhi for ~€500, then Delhi to Kathmandu for as low as €100 round-trip on budget airlines, which sometimes beats a single Paris–Kathmandu ticket. However, if you are focusing on one country, it’s simpler to book straight through. Keep an eye on Turkish Airlines or Etihad sales – occasionally, people have snagged Europe–Delhi in the high €400s. Still, assume around €600 as a baseline for flights. It’s a significant chunk, but as we’ll see, your other expenses in India/Nepal will be almost comically small compared to Europe. If you intend a multi-month trip covering both countries, a common route is open-jaw (fly into Delhi, out of Kathmandu, for example). The cost might be a bit more but saves backtracking.

Visas: India requires a visa for French citizens, but it’s straightforward: a 90-day e-Visa is available online for about $25 USD fee[77] (for a 30-day tourist e-visa it might even be around $10–$25 depending on season). The Indian e-visa process is all online, so no embassy visits needed – just budget that small fee. Nepal grants visas on arrival at the airport/border very easily. The fee is $30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, $125 for 90 days[78]. So if you plan, say, 3 weeks in Nepal, you’d pay $50 (~€45) at the airport immigration (they take cash or card and even euros). These visa costs are quite affordable (and arguably “worth it” given how cheap everything else is). Both countries allow multiple-entry etc. if needed (Nepal’s is multiple by default; India’s e-visa is double-entry typically). Be sure your passport has enough validity and carry a couple passport photos for the Nepal visa (though they have digital photo booths if not). Aside from those fees, there are no other visa costs – and notably, Bhutan and Pakistan are adjacent but have more expensive or restrictive visas, which is why most budget travelers stick to India & Nepal where it’s easy.

Accommodation: Low, low, low. India has an enormous range of accommodation, from $3 flophouses to $300 luxury hotels. As a super-budget traveler, you will be looking at hostels, guesthouses, and ashrams. Major tourist cities in India now have backpacker hostels – e.g. in Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Pushkar, Rishikesh, Goa, etc., you can find dorm beds typically for ₹300–₹600 (Indian rupees) a night, which is about €3–€7. For example, in Delhi’s Paharganj area, dorms are around ₹400 (€4.5). In smaller cities or offseason, you can find even cheaper (I’ve personally paid ₹200 (€2.50) for a dorm in less touristy towns). Quality varies, but many of the hostel chains (Zostel, goSTOPS, etc.) offer clean, basic dorms at those prices. If you prefer private rooms, India has tons of budget guesthouses – often family-run inns – where a simple room (sometimes with private bath, sometimes shared) might be ₹800–₹1200 (€10–€14) per night, and less if you negotiate for longer stays. In rural areas or pilgrimage towns, ashrams or dharamshalas sometimes offer extremely cheap lodging (a donation of a few euros) to travelers, though conditions are spartan. The key point: accommodation can easily be under €5 per night on average in India if you stick to dorms or split rooms with a friend. Bemytravelmuse notes that in India “cheap rooms in the $3 range will be very basic”[79] – indeed, a ₹250 room (~$3) likely means a hard bed and bucket shower – but such options exist if you’re hardcore. It might be worth spending a tad more for comfort on occasion (even a $10 room is still a steal). Nepal is similarly cheap. In Kathmandu’s Thamel district (backpacker area), dorms cost about $5–$8 and private rooms $10–$15. In the mountains during treks, lodging in tea houses can be as low as $3–$5 per night (they make money from food more than the bed). In fact, as one source notes, “you can travel [in Nepal] for as cheap as $10 per day on food and accommodation at lower elevations” when trekking independently[80]. A typical guesthouse in Pokhara or Kathmandu might charge NPR 1000–1500 (€7–€12) for a clean double room with en suite. So, both India and Nepal offer beds for just a few euros. If we take an average, let’s say €5–€7 per night is a comfortable estimate for hostel/guesthouse lodging in these countries for a budget traveler[25][27].

Food: Here’s where India especially shines – it’s possible to eat ridiculously well for shockingly little money. Indian street food and local restaurants (“dhabas”) can fill your stomach for pennies. For instance, a plate of vegetarian thali (rice, chapati, curries, etc. all you can eat) at a simple restaurant might cost ₹100–₹150 – that’s €1–€1.70 for a full meal! Street snacks like samosas, chai, dosa can be even cheaper: samosas for ₹10 each (€0.12), a cup of spiced chai for ₹10–₹20. You can literally have breakfast (e.g. stuffed paratha bread) for ₹30 (€0.35), lunch for ₹50 (€0.60), and dinner for ₹120 (€1.40) if you’re eating at local places. Bemytravelmuse notes meals in India can be $3–$6 per day total[24] – which aligns with ₹250–₹500. That’s doable if eating at budget eateries. Even if you occasionally dine at tourist cafes (where a pizza or something might be ₹300, €3.50), your daily food spend can easily stay under €5. In Nepal, prices are slightly higher than India but still cheap. You might spend $5–$10 per day on food in Nepal[27] – say €7 on average – unless you’re trekking. On treks, food costs go up as you ascend (since everything is carried in), but even then a meal might be $4–$5, which is still not bad. Street food in Kathmandu, like momos (dumplings) or chowmein, is $1 or $2 a serving. Drinking water: both countries have widespread water refill stations or cheap bottled water (always ensure safe water, as stomach illness can derail your ultra-budget trip). Bottled water is maybe ₹20 (€0.25) a liter in India, and filtration is common in hostels. Another perk: if you stay in ashrams or do a Vipassana retreat, often meals are provided for free or minimal cost. And if you ever splurge, you’re still paying a fraction of European prices – e.g. a fancy rooftop restaurant in Udaipur might be ₹600 (€7) for a feast. So in summary, food costs can be astonishingly low: one could survive on €3–€5/day for food if strictly eating local (and be full and satisfied), or maybe €7–€10/day if adding some treats or Western items occasionally. And you’ll enjoy some of the most flavorful cuisine in the world!

Transport: India is famous for its extensive (if sometimes slow) transport network at bargain prices. Trains are the lifeblood: You can traverse huge distances for very little. For example, a sleeper class train ticket (no AC, open berths) from Delhi to Mumbai (16+ hours, ~1400 km) costs around ₹500–₹600 (€6–€7)[25] – yes, under €10 for essentially a day’s travel and a night’s lodging on the train. Even the nicer AC 3-tier class for that route is maybe ₹1500 (€17). Shorter train rides, like Agra to Jaipur (5 hours), might be ₹150 (€1.70) in second class. If you plan several overnight train journeys, you save on hotels too. Buses are also cheap: state-run buses can be rustic but cost just a few euros for a trip of a few hundred kilometers. There are also budget private bus operators; for example, an overnight sleeper bus Goa to Bangalore (~12h) can be ₹800–₹1000 (~€10–€12). Within cities, local transport is dirt cheap: public buses often under ₹10, metro in Delhi/Kolkata ~₹20–₹40 per ride, auto-rickshaws might be ₹50–₹100 for short hops (always haggle or insist on meter). Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Ola) operate in many Indian cities and are absurdly cheap by Western standards – an Uber across town could be ₹150–₹250 (€2–€3). Many travelers also rent scooters in India’s quieter regions (e.g. Goa, Hampi) for ₹300/day (€3.50) to explore locally. Nepal’s transport is simpler (no trains except a short line), mostly buses and minibuses. They are very cheap but can be slow on mountain roads. A tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6–7 hours) is about NPR 800–1000 (€6–€8). Local buses even less (but far less comfy). Within Kathmandu, taxis might be NPR 400 (€3) across town, but you can also walk much of it or take microbuses for pennies. For treks, transportation (like a jeep to the trailhead) can be one of the bigger expenses, but still maybe $20 split among passengers. On average, internal transport in these countries might cost you just a couple of euros per day if you’re moving frequently, and near zero if you stay put in one place for a while. One thing to note: distances in India are huge, so plan for time (e.g. a 30-hour train ride instead of a 3-hour flight) – it saves money but costs time. That said, domestic flights in India are also relatively cheap if booked advance (you can sometimes find $50 tickets), but ultra-budget travelers often stick to ground transport for the true backpacker experience and cost savings.

Activities: Sightseeing in India and Nepal can largely be done on the cheap. Many attractions are free or cost only a small fee. For example, wandering historic bazaars, temples, ghats, etc., costs nothing. Museum and monument entry fees in India for foreigners do range a bit higher at major sites (e.g. Taj Mahal costs ₹1100 ≈ €13 for foreigners, one of the most expensive; many other forts/monuments are ₹200–₹600 i.e. €2–€7). Still, you’re not going to visit dozens of paid sites every day. You might splurge on a few must-sees (budget that in – e.g. Red Fort Delhi ₹500, Amber Fort Jaipur ₹500, etc.). In Nepal, the big expense could be trekking permits – for example, the Annapurna Conservation fee and TIMS card together about $50–$60. But once you have that, hiking in the mountains is basically free (aside from food/lodging which we covered – and even those costs are low for what you get: in trekking areas, $20/day covers food and lodging if independent). Other Nepal attractions like UNESCO heritage sites (Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur) charge entry fees of around NPR 1000 (~€8) to foreigners – a bit steep relative to other prices, but these are optional if you’re strict on budget (or you can often view from outside). A lot of cultural experiences in both countries are free: observing ceremonies on the Ganges, walking through colorful markets, visiting temples (most temples in India are free; a few like certain Jain temples might request donation). If you’re into spirituality or yoga, stays at ashrams can be extremely low-cost and often include activities (some even free stay in exchange for volunteer work, or by donation). Entertainment like cinema – if you want to catch a Bollywood movie in theaters – costs maybe ₹150 (€1.70) for a ticket. So, to be safe, maybe allocate €1–€3 per day for activities on average. Some days you’ll spend nothing (just exploring city streets), other days you might pay €10 for a big sight or a guided tour. Overall, the cultural richness of India and Nepal is accessible with minimal spending – you won’t feel like you’re missing out by not having cash, because so much of it is just immersing in daily life and natural beauty.

Safety & health: A realistic point – India can be challenging for some travelers. Crowds, heat, and the infamous “Delhi belly” (foodborne illness) can happen. But thousands of backpackers navigate it safely by taking precautions: drink only treated or bottled water, eat fresh hot cooked foods (street food is fine if it’s popular and hot; avoid raw salads, etc.), and keep hand sanitizer handy. Regarding personal safety: In India, women travelers do face a higher incidence of harassment (stares, catcalls, occasionally groping in crowds). It’s strongly advised for women to dress modestly (long pants, sleeves) and possibly join with other travelers for added comfort. Many solo female travelers have had enriching trips in India – it just requires heightened awareness and maybe stricter itinerary choices (some stick to well-trodden routes, avoid late-night transit, etc.). Men generally have little to worry about beyond petty theft in busy areas (watch your pockets in markets or train stations). Scams exist (overcharging, fake tour guides, etc.), but if you research common scams (e.g. gem scam, “this hotel is closed” taxi scam)[34], you can sidestep them. Nepal is very laid-back and considered quite safe; crime rates are low. The main safety concerns there are altitude sickness (if trekking) and perhaps the occasional political strike (during which transport shuts down, but tourists are usually unaffected beyond inconvenience). The Nepali people are known for their hospitality. In both countries, connecting with other travelers (e.g. finding buddies at hostels) can enhance safety and also be more fun – plus you can split costs. The good news: both India and Nepal have long-established backpacker circuits, so you’ll meet plenty of like-minded budget travelers with tips and advice on the ground.

How long? As long as possible! These countries exemplify the idea that time is cheap when money is scarce. With rock-bottom daily costs, you can afford to travel much longer here than in most places. Let’s do some rough math: If you manage to keep to €20/day in India (which is feasible – many do $20/day) and your flight was €600, a 1-month trip (30 days) would be €600 + €600 = €1200 total. But a 2-month trip (60 days) would be €600 + €1200 = €1800, which averages just €30/day including flights. A 3-month trip might be ~€600 + €1800 = €2400, or €26/day average. You see, the longer you go, the more the flight cost dilutes. And in fact, many travelers spend less than €20/day in India/Nepal by going really hardcore – e.g. staying in ₹300 rooms, eating street food only, traveling slow (fewer long transports). Some report $15/day (~€14) in parts of India[81][82], especially if staying in one region. At those rates, you could theoretically spend 3 months on the ground for under €1300! Of course, allocate a bit more for unexpected costs (maybe you’ll want a nice meal or have to buy medicine, etc.). Realistically, with ~€1000 for expenses you could easily cover 5–6 weeks in India/Nepal on a shoestring (not counting flight). If you had, say, only €700 total, you could do about 3 weeks in India (like a Golden Triangle + Rajasthan trip) including a cheap flight. It’s worth noting that India is vast – if you only have a short time, consider focusing on one part to avoid spending too much on internal transport. Slow travel saves money: e.g. spend a month just in one state or doing volunteering (some farms or schools in India/Nepal offer free room and board for work exchange, effectively costing you almost nothing for that period). Nepal is fantastic for longer treks that cost very little per day (some treks you mainly pay for food/lodging which might be $20/day as mentioned). Many budget travelers combine India and Nepal in a 2–3 month trip, which gives a nice contrast (bustling cities vs. serene mountains) and still keeps costs ultra-low. In summary, if you have more time than money, South Asia is your friend. Even a €1000 budget could translate into 6–8 weeks of rich experiences here if you manage it well. For French travelers not afraid to step outside their comfort zone, India and Nepal deliver an unbeatable cost-to-experience ratio – you’ll come home with memories for a lifetime, and possibly some of your budget still unspent.