Discover France: The Ultimate Paris to Nice 8-Day Journey

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Advisor - Alaina Gallagher
Curated By

Alaina Gallagher

  • France

  • Beaches

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Group Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Local Culture

Advisor - Discover France: The Ultimate Paris to Nice 8-Day Journey
Curator’s statement

France is one of Europe's crown jewels and deserves a lifetime of exploration, but for us that are not able to do, we have to make the best of our time while there. Paris deserves its own dedicated time, and Nice is a wonderful home base to explore southern France. A great trip for couples, friends or multi-generation getaways to make memories for a lifetime!

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Day 1: Arrival & Left Bank discoveries

Morning:

  • Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

  • Transfer to the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés district.

  • Check in or leave luggage at Hotel Dauphine Saint-Germain.

Transportation options: Private transfer (€55–85) or budget-friendly metro.

Afternoon:

Begin your Parisian adventure with a self-guided walking tour of the historic Left Bank:

  • Visit the legendary Shakespeare & Company bookstore.

  • Wander through the manicured paths of Jardin du Luxembourg.

  • Explore Saint-Germain-des-Prés, known for its literary cafés and boutiques.

Evening:

Combat jet lag with an early dinner at one of these neighborhood gems:

  • La Jacobine: Tucked away in a picturesque passage.

  • Restaurant Chez Bartolo: Authentic Italian in the heart of Paris.

  • Le Choupinet: Classic French bistro experience.

  • Lobineau: Fresh seafood in a cozy setting.

Insider tip: An early night will help you adjust to local time and prepare for tomorrow's adventures!

Day 2: Treasures of the Louvre

Morning:

  • Enter the world's most famous museum at your reserved 10 am time slot.

  • Discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and Winged Victory.

  • Navigate the vast halls with a museum map or guided tour app.

Afternoon:

Refuel at one of these nearby culinary spots:

  • Enza Famiglia: Quick Italian just steps from the museum.

  • Cinq-Mars: Stylish bistro across the Seine.

  • Maison 28: Lovely terrace dining when weather permits.

  • Cocorico: Casual French café for a light meal.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at your choice of restaurant (reservations recommended).

  • Consider an evening Seine cruise to see illuminated monuments.

Day 3: Impressionist art & river exploration

Morning:

  • Visit Musée d'Orsay at your reserved 10 am entrance time.

  • Marvel at the world's greatest collection of Impressionist art.

  • Admire the architecture of this converted railway station.

Afternoon:

  • Stroll along the romantic Seine River banks.

  • Browse the traditional bouquinistes (bookstalls) for unique souvenirs.

  • Cross the ornate bridges linking Left and Right Banks.

Evening:

  • Final dinner in Paris.

  • Prepare for tomorrow's journey south.

Day 4: Paris to Nice travel day

Morning:

  • Depart Paris from Gare de Lyon station.

  • Enjoy the scenic 6-hour train journey through France's countryside.

Afternoon:

  • Arrive at Nice-Ville station in the afternoon.

  • Transfer to your accommodation (taxi, walking or light rail options available).

Evening:

Stretch your legs with a twilight exploration of Nice's highlights:

  • Jardins Albert 1er: Lush gardens near the waterfront.

  • Place Massena: The city's vibrant main square.

  • Rue Massena: Pedestrian shopping district.

  • Promenade des Anglais: Iconic waterfront boulevard.

Dinner options include:

  • Le Galet: Beachfront dining with Mediterranean views.

  • Bistrot Gourmand: Local favorites with a contemporary twist.

  • Attimi: Italian cuisine with seafood specialties.

Day 5: Provence wine discovery

Full day:

  • Join a guided excursion to the picturesque Provence region.

  • Visit medieval villages perched on scenic hillsides.

  • Sample regional wines at local vineyards.

  • Learn about Provence's unique terroir and winemaking traditions.

  • Return to Nice in the evening for dinner at leisure.

Day 6: French Riviera coastal tour

Full day:

  • Embark on a guided exploration of the stunning Côte d'Azur.

  • Visit glamorous Monaco and its famous Monte Carlo casino.

  • Explore the medieval village of Èze with panoramic sea views.

  • Discover Antibes' historic charm and Picasso Museum.

  • See Cannes, home of the renowned film festival.

  • Return to Nice in the evening.

Day 7: Nice city discovery

Morning:

  • Join a walking tour of Nice's highlights and hidden corners.

  • Explore the colorful Old Town (Vieux Nice).

  • Visit the local markets for authentic Niçoise experiences.

Afternoon:

  • Free time to explore Nice at your own pace.

  • Optional visit to Matisse Museum or Chagall Museum.

  • Relax on the beaches of the Bay of Angels.

Evening:

  • Farewell dinner featuring regional specialties.

Day 8: Departure day

Morning:

  • Final breakfast and last-minute shopping.

  • Transfer to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport for departure flight.

Need to know

  • When to visit:
    Spring (April–June): Mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
    Summer (July–August): Warmest weather with bustling atmosphere.
    Fall (September–October): Pleasant temperatures and harvest festivals.
    Winter (November–March): Quieter cities with potential for mild Mediterranean days.

  • Packing essentials:
    Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets.
    Layers for variable weather conditions.
    Smart-casual attire for restaurant dining.
    Swimwear for French Riviera beaches (seasonal).
    Small daypack for excursions.
    Universal power adapter.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our France page.

Advisor - Alaina Gallagher

Travel Advisor

Alaina Gallagher

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