How far is Paris from the Riviera ? Traveling from the French Riviera to Paris is a common journey for tourists, cruise passengers, and business travelers. Whether you are departing from Nice, Cannes, Monaco, or Saint Tropez, understanding the distance, travel time, and transportation options is essential for planning your trip efficiently.
This guide will break down travel distances, car routes, train options, flights, and even day-trip possibilities. We will provide concrete examples, costs in Euros, travel times, and tips to make your departure smooth and stress-free.
If you want to explore the French Riviera before heading to Paris, check out our guides on What is the best city to stay in the French Riviera? and What is the main city in the French Riviera? to plan your stay efficiently.
How far is Paris from the Riviera ? Distance and travel times from the Riviera to Paris
The French Riviera stretches along the Mediterranean Sea in the South of France, including cities like Nice, Cannes, Monaco, Antibes, and Saint Tropez. The distance to Paris varies depending on your departure city:
| Departure City | Distance to Paris | Travel time (car) | Travel time (train) | Flight time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nice | 930 km | 9–10h | 5h30–6h | 1h30 |
| Cannes | 950 km | 9h30–10h30 | 5h40–6h10 | 1h35 |
| Monaco | 950 km | 9h30–10h30 | 6h | 1h30 |
| Antibes | 940 km | 9–10h | 5h40–6h | 1h30 |
| Saint Tropez | 1,050 km | 11–12h | 6h30–7h | 1h40 |
Traveling from Nice is generally the most convenient, which is why many tourists choose Nice as their base to explore the Riviera’s monuments, sandy beaches, and panoramic terraces overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
By car: Driving from the Riviera to Paris
Driving allows flexibility and scenic stops along the way. The main route follows the A7 and A6 highways, passing Provence, Marseille, Avignon, and Sophia Antipolis.
- Distance: ~930–1,050 km
- Travel time: 9–12 hours depending on traffic
- Tolls (Euros): €80–€120
- Fuel cost: €120–€150 for a mid-size car
- Highlights along the way: Marseille, Avignon, Provencal villages, medieval chateaux, and the peninsula of Saint Tropez
Tourists can enjoy terraces overlooking the sea, historic monuments, or a short stop at a Picasso museum in Antibes before continuing north. For travelers departing Nice, you can plan your day-trip to Monaco, Cannes, or Saint Tropez before your departure.
Maillage interne : Learn more about the best city to stay in the French Riviera to optimize your starting point for driving.
By train: TGV from the Riviera to Paris
The TGV is fast, comfortable, and air-conditioned, making it ideal for long-distance travel. Direct high-speed trains connect Nice Ville, Cannes, and Monaco to Paris Gare de Lyon.
- Duration: 5h30–6h from Nice, 5h40–6h10 from Cannes
- Ticket prices: €50–€150 (Euros), depending on booking
- Advantages: Panoramic views of the Cote d’Azur coastline, air-conditioned cars, convenient departure from the Riviera
- Tips: Book early to get the best Euro deals and window seats to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea, harbours, yachts, and terraces along the way
A TGV departure from Nice at 8:00 am allows arrival in Paris by 1:30 pm, perfect for sightseeing, visiting museums, or strolling along Boulevards with sea-view inspiration.
By plane: Flights from the Riviera to Paris
Flying is the fastest way to reach Paris. Most flights depart from Nice airport, with options from Monaco heliport for luxury travelers.
- Flight time: 1h30–1h40
- Airlines: Air France, EasyJet, Volotea
- Fares: €50–€200 (Euros) depending on season
- Tips: Schedule departures after enjoying Riviera highlights like Saint Tropez harbours, sailing tours, and Mediterranean maritime excursions
Flight departures allow tourists to combine Riviera experiences with an efficient trip to Paris, whether for business, leisure, or cultural visits.
Day-trip or short departures from the Riviera
Travelers with limited time can plan day-trips or short departures to Paris from the Riviera:
- By plane: Leave Nice airport at 7:00 am, arrive in Paris at 8:30 am
- By TGV: Depart Nice at 6:30 am, arrive in Paris by noon
- By car: Suitable for overnight trips or multi-day journeys
This also gives tourists the chance to visit terraces overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, chateaux, medieval monuments, Provencal villages, and Picasso museums along the way.
How far is Paris from the Riviera ? Tips for travelers from the Riviera to Paris
- Book tickets early to secure the best Euro prices
- Use air-conditioned vehicles or trains for comfort
- Plan a short maritime excursion, yacht, or sailing day-trip before departure
- Enjoy terraces, panoramic views, sandy beaches, and the cathedral Notre Dame in Paris after arrival
- Cruise passengers can book Riviera Shore Excursions to see Saint Tropez, Monaco, Cannes, and Nice before heading to Paris
Frequently asked questions
How far is Paris from the Riviera ?
About 930 km by car, 5h30 by TGV, and 1h30 by flight.
Can I drive from Cannes or Monaco to Paris in one day?
Yes, but it takes 9–12 hours including tolls and rest stops.
How much does it cost to travel from the Riviera to Paris?
Car fuel + tolls: ~€200–€250. TGV: €50–€150. Flight: €50–€200.
What is the fastest way to reach Paris from the Riviera?
Flying from Nice airport or Monaco heliport (~1h30), then TGV (~5h30).
Can I combine sightseeing before leaving the Riviera?
Absolutely. Visit Saint Tropez harbours, Mediterranean terraces, Picasso museums, Provencal villages, and medieval monuments before departure.
Book a Riviera Shore Excursion before your departure to Paris
Maximize your Riviera experience before leaving by booking a tour with Riviera Shore Excursions. Whether you are staying in Nice, Cannes, or Monaco, explore terraces overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, yacht harbours, panoramic viewpoints, chateaux, museums, sandy beaches, and Provencal villages. Depart to Paris relaxed, knowing you have explored the South of France efficiently.