💰 Head-to-Head: Daily Costs
| Category | 🇫🇷 France | 🇬🇧 UK |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | €25–50 | €25–55 |
| Budget meal | €12–18 | €12–20 |
| Coffee | €1.50–2 | €2.80–3.50 |
| Intercity transport | €25–70 | €30–90 (pricey rail) |
| Daily budget | €60–90 | €65–100 |
| Beer | €5–7 | €5–7 (£4.50–6) |
🎯 The Verdict
France is slightly cheaper than the UK overall — French food (the lunch formule), coffee, and wine beat UK prices, and French trains are cheaper than Britains notoriously expensive rail. London is pricier than Paris. The UK counters with no language barrier for English speakers and cheap budget-airline access. Overall France offers better value, particularly for food and rail. The Eurostar links them in 2.5 hours if you want both.