Paris and South of France Itinerary 7 Days with Local Hot Spots

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Ever thought about planning a Paris and South of France itinerary 7 days?

From drinking coffee under the Eiffel Tower to getting mesmerized in the lavender fields in the South. It’s full of excitement and adventure.

So, if you’re plotting your escape to France and wondering how to squeeze all that magic into one week, you’re in the right place.

Without further ado, let’s make your travel dreams come true!

Summary of Paris and South of France Itinerary for 7 Days

If you are planning a road trip down south, check out this awesome rundown on where to go and what to see to make the most of your journey:

Days→Places	Activities
Day 1→Paris	Eiffel Tower | Louvre Museum | Seine River Cruise
Day 2→Paris	Notre Dame Cathedral | Latin Quarter’s maze | Montmartre
Day 3→Avignon	Palais des Papes | Pont d’Avignon | Rue des Teinturiers
Day 4→Aix-en-Provence	Old Town | Atelier Cézanne | Sainte-Victoire Mountain
Day 5→Aix-en-Provence	Wine Tasting | Hiking | Vasarely Foundation | Granet Museum
Day 6→Nice	Promenade des Anglais | Castle Hill | Cours Saleya Market
Day 7→Èze	Èze Village | Jardin Exotique | Artisan Shops | Art Galleries

From iconic landmarks to a chilled-out beach day, let’s talk about the perfect itinerary for exploring the beauty of the South of France in just one week:

Day 1 & 2 – Paris

Paris, the City of Light! 

From sunrise by the Eiffel Tower to sunset at Montmartre, your day in Paris promises to be an unforgettable highlight of your French adventure.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Visit the Eiffel Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Paris.
• Explore the Louvre Museum and marvel at iconic art pieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
• Explore vibrant Parisian markets, discovering artisanal bread, french cheeses, and colorful flavors of traditional French food in Paris. Relax at a sidewalk café, espresso in hand, observing the bustling Parisian life.
• Experience the magic of a Seine River night cruise or an evening stroll along its banks, with the city lights reflecting on the water.
• Enjoy dinner at a local Parisian bistro or restaurant with a view of Eiffel Tower near the Seine.

End your first day with sweet chocolate and take a good nap at your preferred accommodation.

Now, as the 2nd day of your itinerary approaches, there are many more things waiting to be visited in Paris.

Let’s check them out:

• Tour the Notre Dame Cathedral, appreciating its Gothic architecture.
• Wander through the Latin Quarter’s maze of narrow streets, quaint shops, cozy cafés and old bookshops.
• Enjoy nighttime views from Montmartre, with Paris illuminated below you from the Sacré-Cœur.
• Explore the Montparnasse Tower for stunning views of the city.

As the sun sets over the City of Love, bid adieu to Paris with a heart full of memories and a camera full of snapshots. But fear not, for your journey is only just beginning.

Day 3 – Avignon

Avignon comes next on our Paris and South of France itinerary. It is in the heart of Provence and is decorated with colorful walls and ancient streets.

Avignon is like art that will inspire your inner creative soul and is one of the most attractive small towns in southern France. And the food there are absolutely delicious, and will tickle your taste buds.

To get from Paris to Avignon, there are multiple options, such as-

• Train (Fastest & Convenient): You can take the TGV INOUI high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Avignon TGV or Avignon Centre station. It will take between 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours to reach Avignon.
• Bus (Cheapest): From Paris Flixbus offers direct service that will take around 8-9 hours. Also, there’s a night coach option.
• Car/Rideshare: Alternatively, for a road trip to South of France, consider taking a rideshare or rental car that will take about 6-8 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

Now, let’s get into what activities lie in Avignon for you:

• Taking a walk through Avignon’s cobblestone lanes feels like a step back in time. 
• Explore the Palais des Papes, once rival to the Vatican and the historic residence of Catholic popes.
• Don’t miss the Pont d’Avignon, immortalized in song, and partially standing as a testament to the city’s medieval might.
• Take a memorable walk along Rue des Teinturiers to see ancient waterwheels and plane trees, offering a vivid glimpse into Avignon’s history.
• Beyond its historical charms, Avignon serves as a gateway to the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, inviting wine enthusiasts to savor the essence of Provence.
• Visit the local markets and sample some Provençal cuisine.

Day 4 & 5 – Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is what Provence is all about. Its beautiful streets, historic waterways, and lively arts and culture scene make it a must-see.

This city, where Cézanne found his inspiration, has a rich artistic history and an easygoing way of life in the south of France.

So, here’s how you can get from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence

• Train (Fastest & Expensive): Take the TGV or Lyria train from Avignon TGV to Gare Aix-en-Provence with a stop at Marseilles Saint-Charles Station. It will take around 1.5-2 hours.
• Bus (Cheapest & Convenient): With Flixbus, you’ll get to Aix-en-Provence within 55 minutes to 1 hour at a lower cost.
• Taxi/Carpool: Another cost-effective option is carpooling, which will also take 55 minutes to 1 hour. Alternatively, for a more relaxed and luxurious journey, you can take a taxi but it’ll cost you way more.

As the heart of the Provence region, Aix-en-Provence offers so many. Let’s see how you can spend your days here.

• Wander through Aix-en-Provence’s Old Town, exploring its markets and boutiques where the aroma of fresh herbs fills the air.
• Meander down the boulevards shaded by plane trees, ideal spots for a leisurely coffee break, embodying the city’s relaxed essence.
• Visit Atelier Cézanne, the former studio of artist Paul Cézanne.
• Get captivated by his works that vividly narrate Provence’s beauty.
• Hike up Sainte-Victoire Mountain for breathtaking views.
• Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local brasserie.

After this long and joyful day, check-in at your accommodation in Aix-en-Provence for the night. Aix-en-Provence has another day for you to explore more. So, on the 5th day at Aix-en-Provence, you can explore the following:

• Stroll along Cours Mirabeau, shaded by plane trees and lined with Renaissance mansions, inviting cafes, and playful fountains.
• Go wine tasting at a nearby vineyard.
• Hike in the stunning countryside.
• Explore the Vasarely Foundation, an art museum dedicated to Victor Vasarely.
• Visit the Granet Museum for a rich collection of fine art.
• Savor Provençal cuisine at a charming restaurant.

Now, as you bid farewell to Aix-en-Provence, take a moment to reflect on the beauty and tranquility of this charming town, knowing that its essence will stay with you wherever you go.

Day 6 – Nice

Nice’s laid-back beach vibes and high-class charm are the perfect way to start your Riviera getaway.

It sets the tone for a trip full of amazing sights and cultural experiences. In fact, you’ll never get enough of this vibrant capital of the French Riviera with its Old Town and spreading Mediterranean beaches.

So, to arrive in Nice from Aix-en-Provence, compare the train, bus, or rideshare to choose that goes with you.

• Train (Expensive): Take a TGV INOUI or regional TER train from Gare d’Aix en Provence to Nice-Ville station. It’ll take about 3-4 hours.
• Bus (Convenience & Cheap): You can also take the Flixbus or BlaBlaBus to get to Nice from Aix-en-Provence within 2.5-3.5 hours.
• Drive (Fastest & Cost-Effective): With a rideshare or rental car, you can get from Aix-en-Provence to Nice within just 1.75-2 hours. 

With so many options, make sure to take some time to appreciate the beauty and charm of Nice. Such as:

• Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and see how the sea blends perfectly with chic cafes.
• There, the Cathédral Sainte-Réparate and the Opera House await to mesmerize you with their beauty and cultural offerings.
• Next up, marvel at the Palais du Justice and its impressive bell tower, showcasing Nice as a living museum where luxury and history intertwine.
• Venture into the Cours Saleya market to witness the enchantment of handcrafted treasures and the freshest local delicacies.
• Climb Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and the Mediterranean.
• Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant.

As the sun sets over the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, check in to your accommodation and stay the night.

Day 7 – Èze

Between Nice and Monaco, Èze is a beautiful medieval village perched high above the French Riviera. It offers some of the most spectacular views of the Mediterranean, vibrant floral displays, and ancient stone buildings that give it a timeless charm that captivates every visitor.

To get from Nice to Eze, driving is the best option, taking only about 30 minutes with a scenic route.

The activities of your last day of the itinerary start with:

• The narrow, winding streets of the Eze village up to the exotic garden (Jardin Exotique d’Èze) located at the village’s highest point.
• Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of cacti and other Mediterranean flora set against the backdrop of stunning sea views.
• The garden also houses the ruins of a 12th-century castle, adding a touch of historical mystery to the scenic beauty.
• Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the local artisan shops and art galleries that dot the village. Èze is known for its artisanal perfumeries, such as the famous Fragonard.
• You can also learn about the art of perfume making and even create your own fragrance.

As you bid farewell to Èze, take a moment to savor the beauty and tranquility of this enchanting village, knowing that its timeless charm will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Best Time to Visit Paris and the South of France

The City of Light is enchanting all year round, but the best time to visit the south of France depends on your preferences. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Summer, from June to August, brings hot temperatures and clear skies, perfect for soaking up the sun on the region’s beautiful beaches. However, it’s also the busiest time, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
• If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). During these times, the weather is still pleasant, with fewer tourists and more affordable accommodation options.
• Winter on the French Riviera is relatively mild, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a break from colder climates. While beach activities might be limited, you can still enjoy cultural attractions, shopping, and dining without the crowds.

Closing Notes

There you have it—the magical Paris and South of France itinerary 7 days. We hope you’ve experienced the magic and charm that both Paris and the south of France have to offer.

From savoring croissants in a Parisian café to basking in the Mediterranean sun on the French Riviera, every moment has been a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.

But the beauty of these destinations is that they are timeless, always ready to welcome you back for another adventure.

So until next time, keep exploring, dreaming, and let the magic of Paris and the South of France inspire your wanderlust once again.

Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)