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Destinations in France — where to go

The two cities that anchor most French trips — and why they're such a good pair.

France's two headline destinations are Paris (art, food, icons — 3–5 days minimum) and Nice (the French Riviera's easy-going base — 3–4 days). They pair naturally: a fast TGV train covers the roughly 570 miles between them in under 6 hours, so a two-week trip combining both, plus a regional detour, is entirely doable without ever renting a car.

France rewards people who don't try to see all of it in one trip. Paris and the Riviera are, on paper, two completely different countries — one is grey stone and Métro rumble, the other is turquoise water and pine-scented hills — and that contrast is exactly why combining them works so well. Here's an honest look at both, plus what to actually do with your time in each.

Paris
Destinations

Paris

4–5 nights, stay in a central arrondissement — the Métro does the rest.

Nice
Destinations

Nice

3–4 days, the Riviera's easiest base, with Monaco and Èze a short train ride away.

Questions people actually ask

How many days do I need for Paris and Nice together?
10–14 days works well: 4–5 days in Paris, a fast TGV down to the coast, then 4–5 days based in Nice with day trips along the Riviera. Add 2–3 days for a regional detour (Provence or the Loire Valley) if you have more time.
Is it easy to get between Paris and Nice without a car?
Yes — the TGV high-speed train covers it in under 6 hours direct, with WiFi, food service, and no security-line stress. Budget flights (about 90 minutes) are cheaper on some dates but add airport time; for most travelers the train is the more pleasant option.
Which is better for a first trip to France — Paris or the whole Riviera?
If you only have a week, most first-timers do better giving Paris the full week and saving Nice for a return trip — Paris alone has enough for 5+ days without repeating yourself. See our full Paris-or-Nice comparison for a direct breakdown by travel style.