💰 Head-to-Head: Daily Costs
| Category | 🇫🇷 France | 🇮🇹 Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | €25–50 | €20–40 |
| Budget meal | €12–18 | €10–15 |
| Coffee | €1.50–2 (bar) | €1–1.50 (bar) |
| Intercity train | €25–70 | €20–50 |
| Daily budget | €60–90 | €50–80 |
| Beer | €5–7 | €4–6 |
🎯 The Verdict
Italy is marginally cheaper than France overall, with lower food and coffee prices — especially in the south (Naples, Sicily). Frances regions (Lyon, Bordeaux) rival Italian value, but Paris is pricier than Rome. Both offer incredible free sights. For the tightest budget, southern Italy wins; for value dining, Frances lunch formule competes well. Roughly a wash — pick based on what you want to see.