Who said traveling had to mean spending a fortune? By choosing the right time of year, you can discover the most beautiful French (and European) destinations at much more affordable prices. Off-season, train and plane tickets drop, accommodations can be booked without stress, and experiences often feel more authentic.
Smart travel means playing with the calendar: avoiding the July-August crowds and school holidays, while enjoying special offers, like those offered every week by OIQIA, with 15% off a selection of accommodations.
Avoiding school holidays and long weekends can make a big difference. Traveling in May, June, September or October means:
👉 Note: this works especially well in seasonal holiday destinations (beach, mountain, seaside resorts). In big cities, September also means the return of business travelers, which sometimes keeps prices high, especially midweek.
Transport and accommodation prices fluctuate greatly depending on the day. Traveling Tuesday to Thursday often means saving on tickets and nights.
💡 For example, a hotel or apartment night can be 20–30% cheaper than a Saturday.
👉 As with the previous tip, this is mainly true for leisure destinations. On major business hubs (Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux), midweek is often more expensive due to corporate travel.
Travel smart by taking advantage of existing programs:
These solutions provide flexibility and savings, especially if you like exploring multiple cities on one trip.
Many platforms highlight last-minute bargains. We often think of Airbnb or Booking, but it’s smart to check directly on the official website of the property manager or hotel. Exclusive discounts are often available there, as it avoids platform fees.
👉 At OIQIA, for example, every week a selection of short-term rentals is available with 15% off. Don’t miss out on these weekly deals!
If you travel for work, why not extend your stay to enjoy the weekend?
Example: a Friday business trip to Lille can easily turn into a cultural weekend with a visit to the La Piscine museum in Roubaix, exploring the Old Town, and a Sunday brunch.
Choose your accommodation wisely to make the most of this bleisure escape.
Some airlines offer attractive rates if you travel with just a cabin bag. Off-season, with mild weather, there’s no need to carry bulky luggage.
Flexibility is also key: shifting your departure by 24–48 hours can reduce your bill by 20%.
A simple but powerful hack: book a place with a kitchen. In hotels, the price often includes the upkeep of a professional restaurant kitchen, even if you don’t use the service.
With an equipped apartment, you can:
👉 Many OIQIA apartments offer this flexibility, perfect for saving money without missing out on culinary discovery. And don’t forget: through Traveler Assistance, you can even check if breakfast delivery is available during your stay.
Traveling off-season also means unique experiences:
💡 Bonus tip: always ask your hosts for recommendations on hidden gems, activities, or local events. With OIQIA, it’s even easier: the app gathers all local info, and Traveler Assistance is available 365 days a year to guide you.
Traveling off-season not only means enjoying better prices, but also living a more authentic and peaceful experience. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, with friends or for work, these tips will help you optimize your budget while maximizing the fun.
And to stretch your savings even further, remember: every week OIQIA highlights a selection of short-term rentals with 15% off in more than 30 French cities. The perfect way to travel smart… all year long!
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