7 Days in France: The Classic Route from Paris to the Riviera
Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
Best For
Art Enthusiasts, Sun Seekers, Romance
Pass Needed?
Eurail Suggested
Reservations
Required (Scenic)
Day-by-Day Journey
Arrive in the City of Light: Paris
Morning & Afternoon
Land at Charles de Gaulle Airport and take the RER B train to the city center. Walk through the Tuileries Garden toward the Louvre. Ascend the Eiffel Tower or explore the artistic hilltop of Montmartre. Sunset views from the Sacré-Cœur are unbeatable.
Train Notes
“RER B to Châtelet-Les Halles: ~50 mins. Keep your ticket until you exit the station!”
The Louvre & Seine River Banks
Morning & Afternoon
Immerse yourself in history at the Louvre. Pro tip: Use the 'Porte des Lions' entrance to skip the glass pyramid lines. Browse the iconic bouquinistes (bookstalls) along the Seine. Visit the medieval Sainte-Chapelle for its stunning stained glass.
Train Notes
“Paris is best explored via Metro. Use Lines 1 and 7 for the most iconic sights. Metro tickets can be bought in packs of 10 (Carnet).”
Southbound TGV to Avignon
Morning & Afternoon
Board the double-decker TGV Duplex at Gare de Lyon. Watch as the urban cityscape transforms into rolling vineyards. Arrive in Avignon, the medieval capital of Christendom. Walk through the Palais des Papes and the famous broken bridge, Pont d'Avignon.
Train Notes
“Paris to Avignon TGV: 2h 40m. Reservations are mandatory and sell out fast in summer. Book weeks ahead on the SNCF site.”
Provence Lavender & Roman Ruins
Morning & Afternoon
Take a short regional train trip to Nîmes to see the exceptionally preserved Roman Arena and the Maison Carrée temple. Return to Avignon and enjoy a glass of local Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine in the shadow of the medieval walls.
Train Notes
“Avignon to Nîmes: 30 mins via regional TER train. No reservations needed—just validate your ticket before boarding.”
Arrive on the French Riviera: Nice
Morning & Afternoon
The TGV ride continues south. As you approach Nice, the train tracks hug the coastline—keep your camera ready for the first glimpse of turquoise water. Walk the Promenade des Anglais. Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for a perspective over the red roofs of Old Nice.
Train Notes
“Avignon to Nice: ~3h 15m. The coastal stretch between Marseille and Nice is one of the most scenic railways in the world. Avignon station has great cafes while you wait.”
Monaco & The Monte Carlo Glamour
Morning & Afternoon
Take the frequent TER regional train to Monaco Monte-Carlo. The station is built directly into the mountain rock. Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Prince's Palace. Walk the Formula 1 street circuit toward the famous casino.
Train Notes
“Nice to Monaco: 20 mins. These TER trains run every 15-30 minutes. High seating on the right side (facing forward) provides the best sea views.”
The Perfume Capital: Grasse or Departure
Morning & Afternoon
Final morning in Nice. Consider a quick train trip to Grasse—the perfume center of the world—to create your own scent. Head to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) for your flight or take the high-speed TGV back to Paris.
Train Notes
“Nice to Grasse: 1h 10m. Frequent regional service. Make sure to re-confirm your flight status via the airport app.”
Estimated Costs
Budget
$1,400
Mid-Range
$2,800
Comfort
$4,500+
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