8-Day Paris Trip: Copy This Itinerary

Day 1 starts at the Louvre Museum at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore. Travel to Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris at 12:30 PM via a 15-minute walk, enjoying the scenery. Spend 2 hours appreciating its architecture. Then, head to Sainte-Chapelle at 3 PM, a 10-minute stroll, and allow 1 hour for the stunning stained glass. This itinerary offers a balanced mix of culture and leisure.

Attractions

Louvre Museum

Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa, the Louvre is a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris

An iconic symbol of Paris, Notre-Dame showcases stunning Gothic architecture and houses significant historical relics.

Sainte-Chapelle

Famed for its stunning stained glass windows, Sainte-Chapelle offers a mesmerizing glimpse into medieval art and architecture.

Day 2 starts at Montmartre at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the Basilica and art. Take a 20-minute taxi (~€15) to Musée de l'Orangerie, arriving by 11:30 AM for 90 minutes with Monet's masterpieces. After, enjoy a 15-minute walk to Jardin du Luxembourg by 1:30 PM; relax here for 1 hour before your next adventure.

Attractions

Montmartre

Known for its bohemian past, Montmartre offers vibrant streets, artists at work, and the stunning Basilica of Sacré-Cœur.

Musée de l'Orangerie

Home to Monet's Water Lilies, this museum is a peaceful oasis showcasing impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces.

Jardin du Luxembourg

These picturesque gardens offer a perfect retreat from city life with beautiful flowerbeds, statues, and a charming pond.

Day 3 begins in Le Marais at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore boutiques and cafes. Travel by Metro Line 1 from Saint-Paul to Charles de Gaulle – Etoile (20 minutes, €2). Visit the Arc de Triomphe at 11 AM, spending 90 minutes to enjoy views and history. Next, take RER C to Versailles (40 minutes, €7) for the magnificent Palace of Versailles at 1 PM - allow 4 hours to explore the gardens and opulent rooms.

Attractions

Le Marais

Famous for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant cafes, Le Marais is perfect for a leisurely stroll and dining.

Arc de Triomphe

A symbol of victory and national pride, climbing the Arc de Triomphe grants stunning views of the Champs-Élysées and Paris.

Palace of Versailles

A short train ride from Paris, this opulent palace offers a glimpse into French royalty with its magnificent gardens and grand architecture.

Day 1 starts at Promenade des Anglais at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for a leisurely stroll. Next, take a 15-minute walk to Colline du Château at 10:30 AM, allowing 1.5 hours to explore the views and gardens. Afterward, enjoy a 10-minute walk to Old Nice at 12:30 PM, where you should spend 2 hours discovering the charming streets and local cuisine.

Attractions

Promenade des Anglais

Stroll along this stunning seafront promenade, famous for its beautiful views, vibrant atmosphere, and lovely Mediterranean beaches.

Colline du Château

Enjoy panoramic views of Nice and the coastline from the top, along with the historic ruins and beautiful gardens.

old nice

Wander through the colorful streets filled with local shops, vibrant markets, and authentic cafés, immersing yourself in the charming Provençal atmosphere.

Start your day at Marc Chagall National Museum at 9 AM - allow 2 hours. Next, enjoy a 15-minute walk to Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC) at 11:30 AM for another 2 hours. Afterward, take a 10-minute bus ride (~€1.50) to Monastère de Cimiez at 2 PM - allow 1 hour. This itinerary balances art appreciation with leisurely strolls and local transport.

Attractions

Marc Chagall National Museum

Discover an impressive collection of works by Marc Chagall, highlighting color and creativity in a beautifully designed museum.

Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC)

This museum features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, showcasing local and international artists.

Monastère de Cimiez

Visit the peaceful gardens and historic monastery, offering insights into the region's past and beautiful views over Nice.

Start Day 3 at Cours Saleya at 9 AM - enjoy the vibrant market for 1 hour. Travel 15 minutes via local bus (~€1.50) to Côte d'Azur Observatory at 10:30 AM for 1.5 hours of stunning views. Finally, take a 30-minute bus ride (~€2) at 12:30 PM to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, where you can wander the beautiful gardens for 2 hours.

Attractions

Cours Saleya

Experience the lively atmosphere of this famous market offering fresh produce, local products, flowers, and delicious street food.

Côte d'Azur Observatory

Enjoy breathtaking views of Nice and the surrounding countryside from this historic observatory, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

This stunning villa offers beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It's a hidden gem that showcases art collections and exquisite landscaping.

Day 1 starts at Old Port at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours to enjoy the views and ambiance. Travel to Notre-Dame de la Garde at 10:30 AM, a short 15-minute bus ride (~€2) with beautiful coastal scenery. Spend 2 hours at the basilica exploring its stunning architecture and views. At 1:30 PM, take a 10-minute bus ride (~€2) to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, allowing 2 hours to experience its exhibits.

Attractions

Old Port

Experience the vibrant heart of Marseille where history meets modernity, with picturesque views of the harbor, bustling markets, and charming cafes.

Notre-Dame de la Garde

This iconic basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and a rich history connected to Marseille’s maritime culture.

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations

Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Mediterranean through innovative exhibitions in this architectural marvel connecting history with contemporary art.

Day 2 starts at Parc national des Calanques at 9 AM - allow 3 hours for stunning views and leisurely exploration. Take a 30-minute taxi ride (~€30) to Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas) for a 12:30 PM visit (1.5 hours). Conclude your day at Les Terrasses du Port at 2:30 PM - a quick 10-minute taxi ride (~€10) for shopping and dining until 4:30 PM.

Attractions

Parc national des Calanques

Marvel at stunning limestone cliffs and turquoise waters in this beautiful national park, perfect for hiking, swimming, and appreciating nature's beauty.

Citadelle de Marseille (Fort Saint-Nicolas)

This historic fortress provides insight into Marseille's military past and offers excellent views of the Old Port and city skyline.

Les Terrasses du Port

This open-air shopping and dining complex features a variety of restaurants with exceptional views of the harbor – perfect for gastronomy lovers.

Paris & Nice & Marseille, France 8-day travel plan covering Top attractions and Hidden Gems

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Louvre Museum

Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris

Sainte-Chapelle

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8