7 Days Exploring Paris and Nice: Where to Stay, Activities & Amazing Experiences

Starting the Dream in Paris and Nice

Some destinations linger in your dreams long before you actually set foot there. For me, the South of France is one of those places—a dream shaped by images of sunlit streets, azure seas, lavender and lemon markets, all wrapped up in a serene and stunning lifestyle. Last month, in April, I finally had the chance to make that dream a reality. I spent a fabulous week in Paris, followed by a visit to Nice. The City of Light combined with the Côte d'Azur—an experience beyond compare.

Paris delivered everything I hoped for and more, while Nice made me understand why people are so enamored with the French Riviera. Here’s what I did, where I stayed, and why you should definitely visit these enchanting places.

Paris - 4 Exciting Days

Where to Stay

Located in the prestigious 8th arrondissement, my favorite hotel was the NH Collection Paris Ponthieu Champs-Élysées. It’s not just about the location or the hotel's appearance; the joy of stepping out the door was an unforgettable experience. Just a minute's walk away, I found myself on the Champs-Élysées, with the Arc de Triomphe right beside me. Here, you can truly feel the luxury and elegance of the city.

This hotel was built in 1910 but was renovated in 2025, offering a luxurious and refined atmosphere. In a city known for its small room sizes, my Junior Suite was a spacious 24 square meters, complete with a cozy sitting area for moments of relaxation between shopping and sightseeing. The bathroom was roomy and inviting, bathed in soft lighting, with amenities like a Nespresso coffee machine and a plush bathrobe that made it hard to leave the room.

Activities & Attractions

When in Paris, the first thing I recommend is visiting the Eiffel Tower. There’s no way to prepare for the first sight of it—no matter how many pictures you’ve seen. Built in 1889, the Eiffel Tower is the city’s unmistakable symbol, and you should see it at least twice: once during the day and once at night when it sparkles with stunning light displays.

Additionally, you can’t miss the Louvre Museum and the Musée d'Orsay. Both are located less than 2 km apart, so you can visit them in one day, but I suggest taking your time at each. The Louvre is the largest art museum in the world, while the Musée d'Orsay is renowned for its impressive art collection.

Exploring the Neighborhoods

Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés are two neighborhoods you must explore. Le Marais offers a charming atmosphere with its cobblestone streets, while Saint-Germain-des-Prés is famous for its cultural and artistic vibe. Here, you can enjoy hot chocolate at Café de Flore and hunt for unique books along the Seine River.

A Seine River Cruise

Don’t miss the experience of a cruise on the Seine River. From the water, you’ll see iconic Paris landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre in a breathtaking setting. It’s a fantastic way to gain a deeper understanding of the city and its rhythm.

Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

Before you set off on your adventure, be sure to consider visa requirements. Vietnamese travelers need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter France, and this process usually takes about 2-3 weeks. As for costs, a meal in Paris can range from 300,000 to 700,000 VND depending on the type of restaurant. The best times to visit Paris are from April to June and September to November when the weather is cooler and perfect for sightseeing.

If you’re flying from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, round-trip tickets typically range from about 15 million to 25 million VND depending on the season. Be sure to book your tickets early for the best prices.

Article referenced from: Seth Lui Food