Best France Itinerary 8 days (Hotels + Vegan Food + Things To Do)

In this article, Read a detailed day-wise France itinerary 8 days (France in 8 days) with city-to-city commuting options, hotel stay options, things to do, vegetarian food options, adventure activities, and many more FAQs for first-timers to France. 

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France Itinerary 8 days (8 Days In France)

France is worth visiting for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, world-class cuisine, iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and the unforgettable charm of cities like Paris, the stunning French Riviera, and the picturesque countryside. So let’s check how to spend 8 days in France with some fantastic things to do in France.

Day 1: Paris

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• Arrive in Paris and check into a mid-budget hotel like Hotel Horset Opera or Hotel Exe Paris Centre.
• Start your exploration with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top.
• Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, a famous avenue lined with shops, cafes, and theaters.
• Visit the Louvre Museum and admire its vast collection, including the renowned Mona Lisa.
• In the evening, explore the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre and visit the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Day 2: Paris

• Start your day with a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture.
• Explore the charming neighborhood of Le Marais, with its narrow streets, trendy shops, and historic buildings.
• Take a relaxing boat cruise along the Seine River, passing by significant landmarks like the Musée d’Orsay and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• In the afternoon, visit the Orangerie Museum to see Monet’s famous Water Lilies series.
• Enjoy an evening at the lively Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent dining options.

Day 3: Versailles Day Trip – France Itinerary 8 Days

• Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles just outside Paris. The distance is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles), and the travel time by train is around 45 minutes. 
• Commuting distance: 20 kilometers (12 miles)
• Commuting time: Approximately 45 minutes
• Explore the opulent palace, its gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors.
• Enjoy a picnic in the gardens of Versailles, or have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
• In the afternoon, visit the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, two smaller palaces within the Versailles complex.
• Return to Paris in the evening and have dinner at a cozy bistro in the city or book the exotic show at Moulin Rouge.

Day 4: Nice – France Itinerary 8 Days

• Fly from Paris to Nice, a beautiful city on the French Riviera.
• Commuting distance: Approximately 950 kilometers (590 miles)
• Commuting time: Flight duration is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Check into a mid-budget hotel like Hotel Villa Victoria or Hotel Le Grimaldi.
• Explore the vibrant Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and bustling markets.
• Visit the Promenade des Anglais, a scenic waterfront promenade that stretches along the Mediterranean Sea.
• Relax on the beaches of Nice and enjoy the stunning views.
• In the evening, dine at a local restaurant and savor some delicious Niçoise cuisine.

Day 5: Monaco and Eze Day Trip

• Take a day trip to Monaco, a glamorous principality known for its luxurious casinos and a yacht-filled harbor. 
• The distance from Nice to Monaco is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles), and the travel time by train is around 20 minutes. From Monaco to Eze, the distance is about 10 kilometers (6 miles), and the travel time by train is around 15 minutes.
• Visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum.
• Explore the charming medieval village of Èze, high up on a hill. Wander through its narrow streets and visit the Jardin Exotique for panoramic views. 
• Return to Nice and spend the evening leisurely exploring the city or enjoying the nightlife.

Day 6: Lyon

• Travel from Nice to Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France. The distance is approximately 470 kilometers (292 miles), and the travel time by train is around 4 hours. 
• Check into a mid-budget hotel like Hotel Lyon Métropole or Hotel Charlemagne.
• Explore Vieux Lyon, the city’s historic old town, with its Renaissance buildings and narrow traboules (passageways).
• Visit the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière on a hill offering fantastic city views.
• Indulge in Lyon’s culinary delights by trying local specialties at Bouchon, traditional Lyonnais restaurants.
• Take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Rhône or Saône rivers.

Day 7: Avignon and Arles Day Trip

• Take a day trip from Lyon to Avignon, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The distance from Lyon to Avignon is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles), and the travel time by train is around 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Visit the Palais des Papes, a massive Gothic palace once the Popes’ residence.
• Explore the charming streets of Avignon and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
• Continue the day trip to Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Roman ruins, including the impressive Arena of Arles. From Avignon to Arles, the distance is approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles), and the travel time by train is around 20 minutes.
• Return to Lyon in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Lyonnais restaurant.

Day 8: Departure – Paris Itinerary 8 Days

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to explore Lyon further or do some last-minute shopping.
• Check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your departure.

Valuable Resources – France Itinerary 8 Days

Read about some helpful things to know before you plan your France itinerary for 8 days.

Things To Do In France In 8 Days With Kids

Here is a list of kid-friendly activities and attractions in France in 8 days tour:

1. Disneyland Paris: Experience the magic of Disney with thrilling rides, parades, and character meet-and-greets.
2. Parc Astérix: Enjoy a day of adventure at this theme park inspired by the famous French comic book characters Asterix and Obelix.
3. Futuroscope: Explore this futuristic theme park in Poitiers, offering 3D and 4D attractions, multimedia shows, and interactive exhibits.
4. Puy du Fou: Witness spectacular historical reenactments, live shows, and immersive experiences at this unique theme park focused on history.
5. Cité de l’Espace: Discover the wonders of space and astronomy through interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and a life-sized replica of a space station in Toulouse.
6. ZooParc de Beauval: Visit one of the largest zoos in France, home to a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas, white tigers, and African elephants.
7. Nausicaá: Dive into the world of marine life at this impressive aquarium in Boulogne-sur-Mer, with interactive displays, touch pools, and a shark tank.
8. La Cité des Enfants: Located within the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in Paris, this interactive children’s museum offers hands-on exhibits focused on science and technology.
9. Le Pal: Have a wild time at this theme park and zoo in Dompierre-sur-Besbre, featuring rides, animal shows, and a water park.
10. Aquarium La Rochelle: Explore the marine world at this aquarium in La Rochelle, housing thousands of species and offering educational presentations.
11. Château de Chambord: Let imaginations run wild as you explore this Renaissance castle’s splendid halls and gardens in the Loire Valley.
12. Cité de l’Automobile: Car enthusiasts will be thrilled by this automobile museum in Mulhouse, showcasing a vast collection of vintage cars and interactive exhibits.
13. France Miniature: Discover miniature versions of France’s most famous landmarks and regions in this outdoor park in Élancourt.
14. Musée de la Mer: Dive into marine life at this aquarium in Biarritz, featuring many fish, sharks, and sea creatures.
15. Le Village des Automates: Located in Saint-Cannat, this outdoor park offers animated displays, play areas, and shows for young children.

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Adventurous Activities to Do in France In 8 Days

Here is a list of adventurous activities to do in the mentioned cities in France:

Paris: (France itinerary 8 days)

1. Take a hot air balloon ride over the city and enjoy breathtaking views of iconic landmarks.
2. Go on a thrilling zip line adventure at the Eiffel Tower, known as the “FlyView” experience.
3. Explore the catacombs of Paris on an underground tour and discover the city’s hidden tunnels and ossuaries.
4. Go kayaking or canoeing on the Seine River and admire Paris from a unique perspective.
5. Try indoor rock climbing at one of the climbing gyms in the city, such as Arkose Nation or MurMur Pantin.

Nice:

1. Go parasailing and enjoy an exhilarating ride above the Mediterranean Sea, taking in the stunning coastal views.
2. Embark on a scuba diving adventure and explore the underwater world of the French Riviera.
3. Take a thrilling jet ski ride along the coast, experiencing the speed and excitement of riding the waves.
4. Try paragliding and soar above the beautiful landscapes of the French Riviera.
5. Go on a canyoning excursion in the nearby mountains, rappelling down waterfalls, sliding on natural rock slides, and jumping into pools.

Lyon:

1. Enjoy panoramic views of vineyards and castles on a hot air balloon ride over the scenic countryside surrounding Lyon.
2. Take a thrilling bike tour down the slopes of the Monts du Lyonnais, experiencing the adrenaline rush of downhill biking.
3. Go rock climbing in the nearby Alps or Chartreuse Mountains, enjoying the challenge and beauty of the natural rock formations.
4. Try white water rafting on the Isère River or the Drôme River, navigating through thrilling rapids.
5. Explore the underground world by going spelunking in the caves of the Vercors Regional Nature Park.

Vegan French Cuisine to Try Out – 8 Days In France

Here is a list of vegan French cuisine names that vegan tourists can enjoy:

1. Ratatouille: A classic Provençal dish made with sautéed vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
2. Socca: A thin, savory pancake made from chickpea flour, olive oil, and water, typically enjoyed in Nice.
3. Tarte flambée (Flammekueche): A thin-crust pizza-like dish topped with onions, vegan cheese, and sometimes mushrooms.
4. Cassoulet: A hearty, slow-cooked casserole typically made with white beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
5. Salade Niçoise: A refreshing salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, green beans, and potatoes, traditionally served with a vinaigrette dressing.
6. Petits Pois à la Française: Peas cooked with onions, lettuce, and vegetable broth, often flavored with herbs and garlic.
7. Pissaladière: A savory tart made with a yeast-based dough topped with caramelized onions, olives, and sometimes vegan cheese.
8. Crêpes: Thin pancakes filled with vegan fillings like mushrooms, spinach, vegan cheese, or sweet options like fruits and chocolate.
9. Escalivada: A roasted vegetable dish with bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, flavored with olive oil and herbs.
10. Gratin Dauphinois: Sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce made with plant-based milk, garlic, and nutmeg.
11. Clafoutis: A traditional French dessert with fruit (such as cherries) baked in a sweet batter.

These are just a few examples of vegan adaptations of traditional French dishes. Clearly communicating your dietary preferences to ensure the dish is vegan-friendly is always a good idea when dining out.

Best Shows, Operas – France In 8 Days

Here is a list of not-to-be-missed shows and operas in the mentioned cities in France:

Paris:

1. Opéra Garnier: Experience the grandeur of the Opéra Garnier, a stunning opera house known for its exquisite architecture and performances of classic operas like “Carmen,” “La Traviata,” and “The Barber of Seville.”
2. Théâtre des Champs-Élysées: Attend a performance at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, known for its diverse program of ballets, orchestral concerts, and opera productions.
3. Moulin Rouge: Immerse yourself in the world-famous cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge, featuring dazzling costumes, energetic dance routines, and captivating performances.
4. Crazy Horse: Witness the mesmerizing and sensual cabaret performances at Crazy Horse, known for its artistic and avant-garde approach to burlesque shows.
5. Le Lido: Enjoy a glamorous evening at Le Lido, a renowned cabaret venue offering spectacular dance performances, dazzling costumes, and live music.

Nice:

1. Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur: Attend a performance at the Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur, featuring a diverse repertoire of operas, ballets, and classical music concerts.
2. Théâtre de Nice: Experience theatrical productions ranging from contemporary plays to classic works at the Théâtre de Nice.
3. Palais Nikaia: Catch live concerts by famous international artists and bands at the Palais Nikaia, a major concert venue in Nice.

Lyon:

1. Opéra National de Lyon: Explore the world of opera and ballet at the Opéra National de Lyon, famous for its innovative productions and diverse repertoire.
2. Théâtre des Célestins: Enjoy theatrical performances, including plays, comedies, and contemporary works, at the historic Théâtre des Célestins in Lyon.
3. Auditorium de Lyon: Attend classical music concerts by famous orchestras and conductors at the Auditorium de Lyon, known for its exceptional acoustics and diverse program.

Nightlife Options – France Itinerary 8 days

Here is a list of highly-rated nightlife options in the mentioned cities in France:

Paris:

1. Le Comptoir Général: A trendy bar and cultural space with eclectic decor, live music, and themed events.
2. Le Trianon: A historic concert hall hosting various musical performances, from indie bands to renowned artists.
3. Le Baron: A chic nightclub known for its exclusive atmosphere, celebrity sightings, and eclectic music selection.
4. Rex Club: A legendary techno club hosting top DJs and electronic music events for over 30 years.

Nice:

1. Wayne’s Bar: A popular Irish pub with a lively atmosphere, live music, and a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
2. High Club: A multi-level nightclub featuring different music genres, including EDM, hip-hop, and R&B.
3. Le Ghost: A stylish lounge bar with a cozy ambiance, offering a variety of cocktails and occasional DJ sets.

Lyon:

1. Le Sucre: A rooftop nightclub and concert venue with stunning views of Lyon, hosting a mix of electronic and live music events.
2. Le Lavoir Public: A unique cultural space hosting artistic performances, live music, and immersive experiences.
3. L’Antiquaire: A vintage-themed bar with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a selection of cocktails and occasional live music.

How To Commute in France – Public Transport Info

Here’s an overview of the public transport systems and commuting options in the mentioned cities in France: There are many ways to commute and travel like trains, road trips and le boat France. Check some of the options below.

Paris:

• Metro: Paris has an extensive and efficient metro system with multiple lines covering the city and its suburbs. It’s convenient to travel quickly between different neighborhoods and major attractions.
• Bus: The bus network in Paris is comprehensive, offering additional coverage to areas not served by the metro. Buses are an excellent option for exploring the city more leisurely.
• RER: The RER (Réseau Express Régional) is a regional train system that connects Paris with its surrounding suburbs. It’s beneficial for reaching destinations outside the city center or for longer trips.
• Tram: Paris also has a growing tram network, providing efficient transportation to specific areas within the city and suburbs.

Nice:

• Tramway: Nice has a modern and efficient system connecting various neighborhoods and extends to nearby towns like Saint-Laurent-du-Var. It’s a convenient mode of transportation for exploring the city.
• Bus: Nice has an extensive bus network covering the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a practical option for getting around, including reaching destinations not served by the tramway.
• Vélo Bleu: Nice offers a bike-sharing system called Vélo Bleu, allowing residents and visitors to rent bicycles for short trips within the city.

Lyon:

• Metro: Lyon has an efficient metro system consisting of four lines that cover the city and its suburbs. It’s a convenient way to travel quickly and efficiently.
• Bus and Trolleybus: Lyon has an extensive bus network that complements the metro system. Trolleybuses, buses powered by overhead electric lines, also operate in some areas.
• Tramway: Lyon boasts an extensive tramway network with multiple lines, providing convenient transportation options throughout the city.
• Vélo’v: Lyon offers a popular bike-sharing system called Vélo’v, allowing users to rent bicycles for short trips.

In all three cities, it is better to check for various ticket options, such as single tickets, day passes, or multi-day passes, depending on your stay’s duration and travel frequency. Mobile apps and websites also provide real-time information on schedules, routes, and ticketing options for public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the best time to visit France?

France is a year-round destination, and the best time to visit depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to explore. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) generally offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June to August) is widespread but can be crowded, especially in tourist hotspots. Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing in the French Alps.

• What is tipping etiquette in France?

In France, service charges are typically included in the bill, but it’s customary to round up the total or leave a small additional tip for good service. Leaving a 5-10% tip is appreciated but not obligatory. In cafes and bars, it’s common to round up to the nearest euro.

• Are there any specific safety concerns in France?

Like any other destination, France has its share of general safety concerns. It is advisable to take precautions against pickpocketing, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Stay alert, watch your belongings, and avoid displaying valuable items openly.

• Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for popular attractions in France?

It is advisable to book tickets in advance for popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. It helps you avoid long queues and secure your entry. Check the official websites for ticket availability and online booking options.

• Are there any cultural etiquette or customs I should be aware of?

French people appreciate politeness and formalities. Greeting with “Bonjour” (good day) when entering shops or interacting with locals is customary. When dining at restaurants, it’s polite to say “Bon appétit” before starting your meal and “Merci” (thank you) after. It’s also common to greet with a light kiss on the cheek when meeting friends or acquaintances.

• What is the voltage and plug type used in France?

France operates on 230 volts; the standard plug type is the Europlug (Type C). It’s advisable to bring a universal adapter if your electronic devices use a different plug type.

• Can I drink tap water in France?

Tap water in France is generally safe to drink and of good quality. It is common for locals to drink tap water, but if you prefer bottled water, it is readily available in stores and restaurants.

• What are the opening hours of shops and restaurants in France?

Shops in France typically operate from Monday to Saturday, with some closing for a few hours at midday. In tourist areas, shops may stay open on Sundays. Restaurants generally serve lunch from around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from around 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Now you know how to spend 8 days in France beautifully with this perfect France itinerary 8 days. So plan your fun-filled holidays to France with this France 8 days itinerary guide and a detailed planner. 

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