Getting to Nice from Paris: train, plane and night train
Direct TGV in under 6 hours, budget OUIGO, night train from Austerlitz or a 1h20 flight: here is how to choose between train and plane to reach Nice from Paris.
Between Paris and Nice, two credible options: the train (TGV INOUI, OUIGO or night train) and the plane (1h20 flight). The right choice depends less on price than on your starting point in Paris, the season and how much time you are willing to spend en route. Verified figures as of September 2026.
By train: 5h42 minimum, 12 to 13 departures per day
The TGV INOUI leaves from Paris Gare de Lyon and reaches Nice-Ville in 5h42 to 6h03 depending on the service. It runs year-round, with around a dozen daily departures (first around 6am, last around 9pm). Tickets start at around €25 in second class, with prices rising fast at Christmas, during Carnival and in summer, book several weeks in advance.
- OUIGO: same Paris Gare de Lyon - Nice route, bargain fares but restricted timetables and baggage (paid options).
- Intercités de Nuit (night trains): departs Paris Austerlitz in the evening, arrives in Nice in the early morning (around 11:30am-12pm). A chance to save on a night's hotel, in a sleeper berth or seat.
- Average journey time across all trains: 6h45, connections included. Direct services are therefore much more comfortable.
Check timetables and prices on SNCF Connect, and to prepare your arrival, our guide Coming to Nice by train details stations, tram and connections.
By plane: a 1h20 flight, but two airports on each side
From Paris, direct flights depart from Orly (ORY) and Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle (CDG) and land at Nice Côte d'Azur (NCE) in 1h20 to 1h30. Around 26 flights per day, operated notably by Air France, easyJet and Transavia France. The best return fares drop to around €39 depending on the period, but flexibility comes at a price.
- On arrival in Nice, domestic flights mainly use Terminal 2; the tram and shuttles to the centre depart right outside.
- The real cost includes transfers: allow 30 to 45 minutes between the plane and your hotel once tram or taxi is factored in.
- Hold luggage, seat, priority boarding: with low-cost carriers, add up the options before comparing with the train.
Train or plane: our quick comparison
- Departing or arriving near Gare de Lyon → the TGV is unbeatable: no airport transfer, arrival right in central Nice.
- Departing near Orly or CDG, short stay → flying saves 3 to 4 hours, provided you travel light.
- Tight budget → OUIGO or night train, booking early.
- Stay in a city-centre hotel → the train drops you at Nice-Ville, a 10-minute walk from many hotels; see where to stay in Nice.
Once you are there
You do not need a car for Nice and the coast: the tram and buses cover the city, and the regional train links Monaco, Cannes and Antibes. If you are heading for the hinterland, first compare car rentals. To plan your itinerary, start from our guide What to do in Nice and Visiting Nice in 1, 2 or 3 days.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Paris-Nice journey take?
By direct train: 5h42 to 6h03 depending on the TGV. By plane: a 1h20 flight, plus transfers to and from the airports.
How much does a Paris-Nice trip cost?
By train, from around €25 if you book early. By plane, the cheapest returns are around €40 excluding baggage, depending on the period.
Is there still a night train between Paris and Nice?
Yes, the Intercités de Nuit leaves Paris Austerlitz in the evening and arrives in Nice in the early morning. Check service frequency (daily or seasonal) on SNCF Connect.
