From metro passes to affordable cafés, here’s the ultimate student guide to thriving in Paris without breaking the bank.
Studying abroad in Paris is a dream for thousands of students every year—but it comes with challenges. From navigating French bureaucracy to affording €6 coffee, adjusting takes some preparation.
Transportation for Students
- Navigo Pass: Unlimited metro, bus, and tram for about €42/month (with a student discount).
- Velib Bikes: Student-friendly annual bike subscriptions for €30–40.
Affordable Eats
- CROUS Dining Halls: University cafeterias offer full meals for €3.30.
- Boulangeries: Fresh baguettes and pastries for under €2.
Cultural Adjustment
- Speak French when possible (even simple greetings). Locals appreciate the effort.
- Parisian professors expect you to be independent—syllabi aren’t as detailed as in the U.S.
Student-Friendly Day Trips
- Versailles (40 minutes by train)
- Giverny (Monet’s gardens)
- Disneyland Paris (discount student tickets available)
With the right strategy, Paris doesn’t have to drain your wallet—it can be one of the most enriching chapters of your life.