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Want to swap the beach for the cobbled streets and iconic landmarks of the capital and need more information on how to travel from Nice to Paris by train? Start your journey here!
Generally, the train journey from Nice to Paris take 7h 39m, but can take just 5h 43m on the fastest TGV INOUI services. As there are direct services available, you don’t need to worry about changing along the way. When travelling on this route, you’ll board a train at Nice Ville station and cruise through the French countryside before arriving at Paris Gare de Lyon station. Once you’ve boarded the high-speed TGV service, you can take advantage of the modern amenities, including free WiFi and air conditioning. Also, if you want to travel in style, upgrade to First Class and relax in extra wide reclining seats.
Once you’ve arrived in Paris, you can stroll along the banks of the Seine, or enjoy a patisserie like a local in no time. If you’re visiting Paris for the culture, why not check out our guide to the best museums in Paris? If you’re a lover of history and art, you won’t want to miss a trip to the Musée D’Orsay, which exhibits mostly French work from the late 19th and early 20th century. Also, located on the medieval Palais de la Cite, Sainte Chapelle is an architectural gem, boasting a rich history and beautiful stained-glass windows. Still need more inspiration? Check out our comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Paris.
Eager to book? Purchase cheap train tickets from Nice to Paris now! Head to our Journey Planner at the top of the page and we’ll point out the cheapest fares. Want to find out more? Keep reading for train times, FAQs, ticket prices and journey details.
It takes an average of 7h 1m to travel from Nice to Paris by train, over a distance of around 427 miles (687 km). There are normally 13 trains per day traveling from Nice to Paris and tickets for this journey start from $21.58 when you book in advance.
First train | 6:06 am | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 7:25 pm | |
Departure station | Nice | |
Arrival station | Paris | |
Journey time | From 5h 33m | |
Distance | 427 miles (687 km) | |
Frequency | 13 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From $21.58 | |
Train and bus operators |
TGV is the high-speed train service of the SNCF company. It connects the major cities of France at speeds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h). All TGV trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection, power sockets and fold-down tables. Two comfort classes are offered – First Class and Second Class, with flexible fare options available and access to the Grand Voyageur lounge in some stations.
OUIGO is the low-cost, high-speed train service operated by the French national train company SNCF. Despite having only one class on board, OUIGO trains offer the same comfort as Second Class seats on TGV trains, although OUIGO tickets are only available to purchase online. To make your journey as smooth as possible, arrive at least 30 minutes before departure and bear in mind that there's an additional fee for bringing a suitcase with you, having a seat with power sockets and travelling with a stroller/buggy.
Intercités is the classic service of SNCF. The Intercités lines are an important part of the French rail network. Trains make more stops and are cheaper than TGVs, and run at speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h). Two comfort classes are offered aboard Intercités – First Class and Second Class. Intercités by night allows you to travel at night on certain routes, in sleeper cars.
SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).
In Second Class, TGV INOUI allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the onboard services, such as free WiFi, power outlets and more.
Prefer to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Second Class as well as some additional extras.
OUIGO comes with only one class, Standard Class, which is the equivalent of TGV's Second Class. On board you'll find WiFi and a café-bar (on services in Spain). There may be a trolley service on Train Classique services in France. You can pay extra to guarantee a seat with a power outlet, as not all seats currently have one.
If you're travelling in Second Class, you'll enjoy at-seat power sockets, free WiFi and a catering service offering snacks and drinks.
In addition to all the amenities available in Standard Class, you'll find more legroom, adjustable seats and individual tables in First Class.
On board TGV INOUI trains, you can take up to 2 pieces of luggage measuring no more than 70 x 90 x 50 cm (27.5 x 35.4 x 19.6 inches), plus one hand luggage measuring no more than 40 x 30 x 15 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches). If you are bringing an XL baggage (maximum 90 x 130 cm or 35.4 x 51.1 inches), it will replace one of the two 70 x 90 x 50 cm (27.5 x 35.4 x 19.6 inches) pieces of luggage authorised.
All your luggage must be labelled before entering the train.
All TGV INOUI trains are equipped with a café-bar car offering a range of food and drink to suit you at any time of day. The Bar is always situated in car 4 or 14 of the train. There's a range of local and responsibly sourced products on offer.
TGV INOUI trains have free WiFi on board for you to use throughout your journey, allowing you to stay connected, reply to emails or even relax and enjoy what's offered on the TGV INOUI entertainment portal.
Children under 12 can get a half price ticket on TGV INOUI trains. Children under 4 travel free when they travel on your lap.
If you've got a foldable bicycle, you can take it on the train as hand baggage, so long as it's no larger than 130 x 90 cm once folded. Or, if you can dismantle your bike, you can transport it in a cover or case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. You can still travel with a bike that cannot be folded or dismantled - you'll need to reserve a bike space on the train when you buy your ticket. Bike tickets cost €10 per bike, per journey.
Small pets are allowed on board TGV INOUI trains provided they weigh less than 10kg. They must travel in a carrier no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Tickets for small pets cost €7. Larger dogs can also travel on TGV INOUI services, provided they are wearing a muzzle and are kept on a leash. Tickets for larger dogs cost €20. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all SNCF trains.
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
One piece of hand baggage (36 x 27 x 15 cm) and one piece of cabin baggage (55 x 35 x 25 cm) can be taken onboard. You can take additional or larger bags with you (max. 30kg) for an extra fee or by paying for OUIGO Plus.
On OUIGO trains in France: an at-seat service of snacks is available on Train classique services. This service is not available on high-speed OUIGO trains.
On OUIGO trains in Spain: OUIBAR is located in car 4 of each train and offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, plus snacks.
WiFi (OUIFI) and an entertainment portal (OUIFUN) are available at an additional cost.
For OUIGO trains in France: Passengers under 12 years old pay a fixed price for tickets all year round - €5 for journeys on Train classique services, and €8 for high speed services.
For OUIGO trains in Spain: Passengers under 12 pay €5 for all journeys.
You can take your bicycle on board OUIGO trains if you add the 'Bike' option onto your ticket for an additional fee of at least €5. Your bike must be folded or dismantled and placed in a storage bag for transport.
Pets are only allowed on board OUIGO trains if the 'Pets' option is added to your ticket at the time of booking. (1 pet per adult, per booking, €10 per pet.)
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
You can take as much baggage as you want on INTERCITÉS trains, whether that's a suitcase, overnight bag or a backpack - just make sure that each piece of baggage is no taller than 130cm and no wider than 90cm. You must be able to carry all your baggage yourself. All baggage must be labelled before you hop on board the train.
You can treat yourself without leaving your seat on INTERCITÉS trains, as there's an at-seat food and drink service. Discover the INTERCITÉS menu 'Nos Territoires Gourmands' and enjoy high-quality, local products. This service is only available on the following routes: Paris - Clermont-Ferrance, Paris - Toulouse, Bordeaux - Marseille, Paris - Briançon (night INTERCITÉS train), Paris - Toulouse (night train), Paris - Lourdes (night train), Paris - Nice (night train).
Free WiFi is available on some INTERCITÉS services. Kick back and relax with free WiFi on the following routes: Paris-Clermont-Ferrand, Paris-Limoges-Toulouse, Marseille-Bordeaux and Paris-Briançon. On overnight trains, you can connect to free WiFi on the Paris - Nice and Paris - Briançon routes.
Children under 12 can get a half price ticket on TGV INOUI trains. Children under 4 travel free when they travel on your lap.
If you've got a foldable bicycle, you can take it on the train as hand luggage, so long as it's no larger than 130 x 90 cm once folded. Or, if you can dismantle your bike, you can transport it in a cover or case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. You can still travel with a bike that cannot be folded or dismantled - you'll need to reserve a bike space on the train when you buy your ticket for an additional fee.
Small pets are allowed on board INTERCITÉS trains provided they weigh less than 10kg. They must travel in a carrier no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Tickets for small pets cost €7. Larger dogs can also travel on INTERCITÉS services, provided they are wearing a muzzle and are kept on a lead. Tickets for larger dogs cost €20. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all SNCF trains.
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Nice to Paris by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
If you'd like to maximize your time in the French capital, why not take an overnight train from Nice to Paris?
SNCF offers an economical option with INTERCITÉS night trains, with one-way tickets from €19. To ensure a comfortable journey, the benches have a footrest, an adjustable headrest and personal night lights.
When traveling on an INTERCITÉS night train, you can enjoy optimal comfort at a reasonable price in either First or Second Class. Opt for a bunk and you’ll enjoy more services on board including a water bottle and a comfort pouch containing wipes, earplugs and tissues.
If you’d prefer to travel in style, reserve a private space and you’ll enjoy a compartment just for you! On INTERCITÉS night trains, you can enjoy an entire compartment, either in First Class (4 bunks) or in Second Class (6 bunks).
If you want to know how to get to central Nice from the airport, keep reading for more details.
If you’re traveling to Nice from abroad, you’ll most likely arrive at the city’s main airport, Nice Côte d'Azur Airport. The airport is located about 4 miles west of the city and can be reached by tram or bus.
Trams from Nice Airport
Running between the east and west of the city, the T2 line connects the airport with the Old Port, in the heart of the city. Also, the T3 links the airport to the Allianz Riviera, the city’s main sports stadium.
If you want to buy tram tickets, you can find a vending machine at each tram stop. Before your journey, you need to validate the ticket inside the tram or on the platform before boarding. Please note that tickets cannot be purchased from the driver.
Buses from Nice Airport
Departing from Terminal 1, the number 12 bus stops at Promenade des Anglais, Place Masséna (Masséna square) and Vieille Ville (old town).
Nice’s bus network runs 7 days a week, from morning to evening. After 10:00 pm, night buses are available. To stop the approaching bus, you need to wave your hand at the driver. Tickets can be purchased from the driver and must be validated on board. Before your stop, you need to press the stop button to get off.
Prior to your journey to Paris, you need to travel to Nice-Ville station. Not sure how to get there? We’ve got you covered!
Nice-Ville train station is conveniently located on Avenue Thiers, in the heart of the city. The station is open Monday to Sunday from 05:00 am to 00:30 am. You can get from the city center to Nice-Ville station by:
Want to start exploring Paris straight away? Read on for more information on how to get from the station to the city center.
From Gare de Lyon in east Paris, you can get to the city’s most famous landmarks by:
If you are traveling on an Intercités night train, you will arrive at Paris Austerlitz station. To get to central Paris, you can use public transport:
If you want to get around Paris quickly and conveniently, you can use the city's public transport system.
If you want to travel around Paris, the Métro is the way to go! To buy tickets, you’ll need to head to the ticket machines found at all Métro stations.
If you’re hoping to travel around Paris and France, we recommend you get a Tplus ticket. The Tplus ticket allows connections between Métro and RER trains and will take you to the city’s main stations where you can catch connecting TGV high-speed trains to other parts of France.
Are you traveling with kids? Children under 4 can travel for free on the Métro, RER, buses and trams as long as they sit on your lap. Also, kids under 10 get 50% off their tickets.
In total, around 60 bus lines run through Paris. Each week, buses operate between Monday and Saturday from 07:00 am to 8:30 pm. You can purchase bus tickets from Métro stations, or the driver as long as you use cash.
To get a taxi from Paris Gare de Lyon, just head to the concourse at the front of the train and take the exit on the right where you’ll see a taxi rank.
On your way to Paris, you can stop off at a variety of French towns and cities.
Please note that not all trains serve the same stations, in fact, some trains don't stop anywhere during the journey. But, depending on which service you travel on, you can visit some of the most beautiful towns in France, including Avignon, Cannes and Aix-en-Provence. The line from Nice to Paris can serve:
Home to charming eateries, cobbled streets and fascinating history, Paris is always a good idea. From the Eiffel Tower to Sacré-Cœur, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Paris. To help inspire your next trip, here are some ideas for things to do in Paris:
After visiting Paris, why not continue exploring Europe by train? With a Eurail Pass, you can travel across 33 European countries as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days.
You can use a Eurail Pass if you’re not a European citizen or resident. If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass instead.
The average journey time by train between Nice and Paris is 7 hours and 1 minute, with around 13 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Nice to Paris is 5 hours and 33 minutes.
Train tickets from Nice to Paris can start from as little as $21.58 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Nice to Paris without having to change trains. There are 10 direct trains from Nice to Paris each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Nice to Paris leaves at 06:06. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Nice to Paris leaves at 19:25. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Nice to Paris cover a distance of around 427 miles (687 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Paris to Nice.