The Perfect 8-Day Paris & French Riviera Itinerary: From City Lights to Coastal Delights
France offers an intoxicating blend of culture, cuisine, and captivating scenery that keeps travelers returning again and again. This carefully crafted 8-day itinerary combines the sophistication of Paris with the sun-drenched charm of the French Riviera, creating the ultimate French experience.
Days 1-3: Paris, The City of Light
Day 1: Arrival & Latin Quarter Exploration
Morning:
Land at Charles de Gaulle Airport
Transfer to your accommodation
Transportation options:
Pre-arranged private driver (€55-85)
Airport express train + metro (budget-friendly option)
Recommended Stay: Hotel Dauphine Saint-Germain – a charming boutique hotel with an ideal location for exploring central Paris
Afternoon: After dropping your bags, fight jet lag with a leisurely walk through the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhoods:
Start at the iconic Shakespeare & Company bookstore
Wander toward the serene Jardin du Luxembourg
Finish in the heart of Saint-Germain around the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro stop, known for its historic cafés, unique bookshops, and antique stores
Evening: Enjoy an early dinner at one of these local favorites:
La Jacobine – French classics in a cozy setting
Restaurant Chez Bartolo – Italian fare with excellent stone-fired pizza
Le Choupinet – Classic French bistro experience
Lobineau – Seafood-focused bistro with fresh daily catches
Tip: Turn in early to adjust to Paris time as quickly as possible!
Day 2: Art & History Exploration
Morning:
10:00 AM – The Louvre Museum (pre-booked timed entry recommended)
Spend 3-4 hours exploring this world-renowned museum
Afternoon:
Lunch near the Louvre at one of these gems:
Enza Famiglia – Excellent Italian cuisine just steps from the museum
Cinq-Mars – Charming Parisian bistro across the river
Maison 28 – French cuisine with lovely outdoor seating
Cocorico – Casual French café with quick service
Evening:
Dinner at a restaurant of your choice (reservation recommended)
Optional: Evening stroll along the Seine to see the monuments illuminated or even a night Seine cruise!
Day 3: Impressionist Masterpieces & Seine Exploration
Morning:
10:00 AM – Musée d'Orsay (pre-booked timed entry recommended)
Explore the world's largest collection of impressionist masterpieces
Afternoon:
Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine riverbank
Browse the bouquinistes (traditional book and print sellers) along the river
Cross the charming pedestrian bridges for different perspectives of the city
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice (reservation recommended)
Pack for tomorrow's journey south
Days 4-8: Nice & The French Riviera
Day 4: Journey to the French Riviera
Morning:
Train from Paris (Gare de Lyon) to Nice
Approximately 6-hour journey through the French countryside
Pro tip: Book first-class tickets for extra comfort on this longer journey
Afternoon:
Arrive at Nice-Ville train station
Transfer to your accommodation (options include taxi, ~20-minute walk, or the city’s light rail)
Recommended Stay: Albert 1'er Hotel – a classic hotel with modern interior overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the Promenade des Anglais.
Evening:
Stretch your legs and settle in with a leisurely walk through Nice's vibrant center:
Jardin Albert 1er – Beautiful park with fountains and sculptures
Place Massena – Nice's main square with distinctive checkerboard pavement
Rue Massena – Pedestrian shopping street
Promenade des Anglais – The famous beachfront boulevard
Dinner at one of these local favorites:
Le Galet – Beachfront dining with excellent seafood
Bistrot Gourmand – French and Mediterranean cuisine
Attimi – Italian and seafood dishes with a view
Day 5: Wine & Villages of Provence
Full Day:
Guided day trip to Provence with wine tasting
Visit charming medieval villages perched on hillsides
Sample wines from local vineyards in the heart of French wine country
Return to Nice in the evening for dinner at your leisure
Day 6: Coastal Cities Tour
Full Day:
Guided tour of the stunning French Riviera coastal cities
Highlights typically include:
Monaco and Monte Carlo – Glamour and the famous casino
Èze – Medieval village perched on a cliff with breathtaking views
Antibes – Historic port town with Picasso Museum
Cannes – Famous for its film festival and luxury shopping
Return to Nice in the evening & have dinner at your leisure
Day 7: Nice Exploration
Morning:
Nice walking tour to discover the city's history and hidden gems
Explore the colorful Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its narrow streets and markets
Afternoon:
Visit the Cours Saleya Market for local products and flowers
Climb (or take the elevator) to Castle Hill for panoramic views of the Bay of Angels
Evening:
Farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice (recommend one of the classic sea-front spots!)
Day 8: Departure
Morning:
Depending on your flight time, enjoy one last French breakfast
Private transfer or taxi to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport for your departure flight
Pro Tip: Remember to book museum entries, train tickets, and day tours in advance, especially during peak travel seasons!
