Classic Highlights of France: Paris, Lyon and the French Riviera
This 7-day itinerary captures the diversity of France without rushing. Spend 3 days exploring Paris’s iconic museums and historic neighborhoods, 2 days discovering Lyon’s Renaissance traboules and authentic bouchon bistros, and 2 sun-soaked days on the French Riviera exploring Nice, Monaco, and Cannes by coastal train.
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Intercity route legs
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Paris and Seine Sunset
ParisArrive in Paris, settle into your accommodation in the 10th or 11th arrondissement. Walk along the Seine past Notre-Dame Cathedral and enjoy sunset from Pont des Arts.
Louvre and Historic Le Marais
ParisMorning entry to the Louvre Museum focusing on Denon wing. Afternoon stroll through the cobblestones of Le Marais with falafel on Rue des Rosiers. Evening visit to Montmartre and Sacre-Coeur.
Latin Quarter and Eiffel Tower Views
ParisExplore the Luxembourg Gardens and Latin Quarter bookstores. Cross to Sainte-Chapelle for morning stained glass. Evening picnic on Champ de Mars with Eiffel Tower illuminations.
TGV to Lyon and Vieux Lyon Traboules
LyonMorning 2-hour TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Part-Dieu. Climb the Fourviere funicular to the basilica and Roman ruins. Wander the secret Renaissance traboules passages in Vieux Lyon.
Culinary Lyon and Croix-Rousse
LyonVisit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market. Explore the historic silk-weavers quarter in Croix-Rousse. Dine at a certified traditional bouchon for dinner.
TGV to Nice and Promenade des Anglais
NiceTake the scenic morning TGV to Nice-Ville. Walk the famous Promenade des Anglais, climb Castle Hill for panoramic bay views, and eat hot socca in Vieux Nice.
Monaco Day Trip by Coastal Train
NiceHop on the 20-minute local TER train to Monaco. Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Prince’s Palace, visit the Casino atrium, and return to Nice for a farewell Mediterranean seafood dinner.
✂️ What I Would Cut If Short on Time
If you have only 5 days, drop Lyon and take the direct TGV from Paris to Nice, or focus exclusively on Paris and Lyon.
Make this trip cheaper
These options use the current typical minimum fare in our route records. They are not guaranteed quotes, and prices can change before booking.
Make the itinerary fit your trip
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