Welcome to Paris and the French Riviera!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of France, where the elegance of Paris meets the sun-soaked beauty of the French Riviera. This 10-day, 9-night all-inclusive retreat invites you to experience the unparalleled charm, culture, and natural beauty of Paris and Nice, combining iconic landmarks, scenic landscapes, and luxurious accommodations.
What to Expect:
This retreat is designed for those who love a balance of adventure and relaxation. While there are ample opportunities to unwind, the itinerary leans toward an active style, with thoughtfully planned excursions and experiences to make the most of your time. From guided tours of Parisian landmarks and a day trip to Versailles to scenic train travel to the French Riviera and explorations of Nice at your leisure, this retreat offers a variety of scheduled activities—but participation is always optional. Your experience is entirely tailored to your preferences.
Accommodations & Inclusions:
Stay in highly rated hotels, including the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile in Paris and the Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée in Nice. All private airport transfers, train travel from Paris to Nice, and selected excursions are included. Group dinners, local culinary experiences, and guided tours ensure you enjoy the best of French culture and cuisine.
Let Us Help You Plan:
Need assistance booking your flights? Amy Walker, Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats, is happy to help arrange your travel. Reach out directly at amy@walkerwellnessretreats.com for personalized support.
Trip Style:
Active—ideal for those who love to explore, discover, and experience new destinations while enjoying luxurious accommodations and all-inclusive conveniences.
Get ready for an enriching adventure through Paris and the French Riviera, filled with culture, cuisine, and the beauty of the Mediterranean lifestyle!
Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Owner, Walker Wellness Retreats
Amy Walker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Walker Wellness Retreats, which she launched in 2016 to combine her passions for travel, mental wellness, and creating transformative experiences. With a deep commitment to helping others, Amy leads 6–10 international retreats each year, providing all-inclusive experiences that foster connection, self-discovery, and personal growth. She loves showing people the world and creating meaningful, unforgettable travel experiences.
When she’s not guiding retreats, Amy works as an online mental health therapist, specializing in helping individuals and couples overcome barriers, improve communication, and build fulfilling relationships. Her approach integrates evidence-based techniques with compassionate, solution-focused support.
An avid traveler, Amy has visited over 80 countries and counting, with a personal goal to reach 100 countries and all seven continents. She enjoys international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and spending time outdoors. She runs Walker Wellness Retreats alongside her husband, Brian Walker, ensuring each retreat is a seamless and enriching experience.
To learn more about Amy and the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit our About Us page.
Passport and ID
Flight tickets / train tickets
Hotel and transfer confirmations
Travel insurance documents
Credit/debit cards, some cash in euros
Phone and charger
Power adapter for Europe (Type C/E/F plugs)
Small travel daypack or crossbody bag for excursions
Reusable water bottle
City & Sightseeing:
Lightweight tops/blouses/shirts (6–8)
Lightweight pants or jeans (2–3)
Shorts or skirts (2–3)
Light sweater or cardigan for evenings (1–2)
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
Dressier outfit for dinners (2–3)
Casual dresses (2–3)
Lightweight scarf or shawl for sun or modesty in churches
French Riviera / Leisure:
Swimsuit(s) (2)
Beach cover-up or sarong
Flip-flops or sandals for the beach
Sunhat or cap
Sunglasses
Outerwear:
Lightweight jacket or trench (evenings in Paris may be cool)
Optional rain jacket or small umbrella
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
Deodorant
Hairbrush/comb, hair ties
Skincare products (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen SPF 30+)
Makeup (if desired)
Razor / shaving supplies
Travel-size hand sanitizer
Prescription medications with original packaging
Travel journal or notebook
Guidebook / maps or offline map app
Camera or smartphone for photos
Chargers, power bank
Earbuds or headphones
Light reading material / e-reader
Snacks for travel days
Reusable shopping bag
Small travel first aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, motion sickness meds)
Travel laundry detergent or sink stopper for quick washes
Compact binoculars for sightseeing
Light evening clutch or small bag for dinners
Travel pillow and eye mask for the train or flights
Packing Tips:
Mix and match outfits for versatility.
Stick to neutral or complementary colors to make layering easy.
Bring a small foldable tote for souvenirs or market visits.
Check luggage restrictions for the airline and train.
1. Weather & Clothing
June in Paris and Nice is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 60–80°F (16–27°C). Evenings in Paris can be cooler, so pack a light jacket or sweater. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets, museums, and city exploration. Layering is recommended to adjust between air-conditioned indoor spaces and outdoor excursions. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor activities, especially in Nice.
2. Money & Currency
Take out Euros from ATMs. Conversion rates are generally equal to the dollar, but be mindful of ATMs that charge high fees (11–15%)—avoid EuroNet ATMs and suspicious machines.
Use the XE currency conversion app to verify the correct rate when buying something.
Always pay in Euros; do not pay in USD, even if offered, as the rate will be unfavorable.
Cash is widely used for small purchases like drinks. Keep small bills and coins for bathrooms or tips.
Tips are modest in France; simply round up if desired, no need for 20%.
Use up all coins before leaving Europe; they cannot be exchanged back.
3. Financial Safety
Split cash, cards, and documents into different places (wallet, money belt, luggage).
Keep your wallet or purse close to your body and never leave it unattended.
Use ATMs in secure, well-lit areas; avoid machines with suspicious devices.
Monitor credit card and bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
Use credit cards for larger purchases—they offer better protection than debit cards.
Consider a travel credit card with benefits such as no foreign transaction fees and travel insurance.
Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to prevent account freezes.
Use a VPN when accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.
4. Personal Safety
Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
Avoid carrying valuables or flashy jewelry.
Use a money belt or secure cross-body purse for essentials.
Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in unlit areas.
Keep emergency contact information with you.
Register with your embassy or consulate in case of emergency.
Learn basic phrases in French, including how to ask for help.
5. Transportation
Validate your ticket before boarding trains, buses, or metro.
Use trusted ride-sharing apps or licensed taxis when needed.
Use official transportation services at airports and train stations.
For the Paris-to-Nice TGV, book tickets in advance and arrive early.
Walking or biking is ideal for exploring Nice along the Promenade des Anglais.
6. Sightseeing & Excursions
Book skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Versailles.
Group dinners and guided tours are included, but participation is optional—balance sightseeing with relaxation.
Consider visiting off-the-beaten-path areas, such as Montmartre in Paris or hilltop villages near Nice.
7. Dining & Cuisine
Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially for group dinners.
Try local specialties: croissants and café au lait in Paris; fresh seafood and socca in Nice.
Tipping is modest; round up when leaving tips.
8. Health & Comfort
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during walking tours.
Bring a small first-aid kit with pain relievers, band-aids, or motion sickness medicine.
Keep personal medications in original packaging.
9. Packing & Luggage
Use lightweight, versatile luggage and packing cubes.
Include a small daypack for excursions and souvenirs.
Quick-dry clothing and laundry soap allow for light washes during the trip.
10. Technology & Communication
Bring phone chargers, portable power banks, and European plug adapters.
Download offline maps and translation apps to navigate easily.
Keep digital copies of important documents as a backup.
11. Mindset & Enjoyment
Embrace flexibility; weather or local events may cause schedule changes.
Take time to pause, people-watch at cafés, or enjoy spontaneous discoveries.
Balance sightseeing with relaxation to fully enjoy both Paris and the French Riviera.
Payment Policy
All Walker Wellness Retreats require a 25% non-refundable deposit of the total retreat price to secure your booking. Should you need to cancel your trip, your deposit will not be refunded regardless of the reason for cancellation.
For U.S. destinations, the next 25% is due 60 days before the trip, and the final remaining balance is due 30 days before departure.
For International Destinations, the next 25% is due 120 days before the trip, and the final remaining balance is due 90 days before departure.
Trips can be paid in full at any time. If booking after the final payment deadline, trip payment in full is due at time of booking. Invoices NOT paid in full within 7 days of the above-mentioned deadlines are subject to trip cancellation. No refunds will be issued for trips canceled due to lack of payment.
Cancellation Policy
BEFORE the final payment deadline: If you cancel your reservation before the final payment deadline, any additional payments made beyond the non-refundable 25% deposit will be refunded. However, the 25% deposit remains non-refundable.
AFTER the final payment deadline: If you cancel your reservation after the final payment deadline, all payments made (including the deposit and any additional amounts) are non-refundable due to financial commitments with our retreat venues, guides, and service providers.
In the unlikely event that Walker Wellness Retreats cancels a retreat, you will be given a 100% full refund.
We strongly encourage all guests to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances. For additional details on travel insurance coverage and pricing, click the link below.
The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Please email us at info@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.
10 days/ 9 nights in highly rated accommodations
All meals and drinks during the retreat
Airport or local hotel pick up and drop off
Support and transportation throughout the retreat
Local guide for excursions per itinerary
Gratuity/ tipping for guides, drivers and meals
Train from Paris to Nice
Excursions and entrance fees as listed on the itinerary
Retreat gift
International airfare in to Paris and out of Nice, France
Optional excursions
Gratuity of a personal nature i.e housekeeping, bellmen, spa services, etc.
Travel insurance and medical insurance (highly recommended)
Alcoholic drinks unless stated on the itinerary
Souvenirs, drinks and snacks purchased throughout the retreat
Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airport, Amy Walker from Walker Wellness Retreats will be there to greet you and provide a private transfer to the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile, where you will be staying for the next four nights.
After check-in, take some time to rest, refresh, and adjust to the new time zone.
In the evening, join the group for a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant or at the hotel. This meal offers a chance to meet fellow retreat participants, set intentions for your Paris experience, and receive an overview of the upcoming days.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel or a nearby café before heading out to explore the heart of Paris. Start at the Eiffel Tower, where you can take the elevator or stairs to the top for sweeping views of the city. After enjoying the panorama, stroll through the Champ de Mars and take photos of this iconic landmark. From there, walk along the Seine River and explore its bridges and charming quays, stopping for a coffee or pastry at one of the riverside cafés. Next, board a Seine River cruise, which offers a unique perspective of Paris’s most famous monuments, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, Pont Neuf, and the Louvre from the water.
In the afternoon, visit the Louvre Museum with skip-the-line tickets included. A guided or self-paced tour will allow you to see the museum’s highlights, such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory. After the museum, enjoy some free time to relax or take a short walk in the nearby Tuileries Garden.
Gather as a group for dinner at a local Parisian restaurant. This dinner provides a chance to share stories from the day and enjoy authentic French cuisine in a warm, communal setting.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before departing for a day trip to Versailles. Travel by private transfer or the RER C train to the palace, where you will spend the morning exploring the Palace of Versailles. With skip-the-line access, you can move efficiently through the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Grand Apartments, and the Royal Chapel, enjoying the grandeur and history of this iconic site.
After the palace tour, enjoy lunch at La Petite Venise or Angelina Versailles, savoring classic French cuisine in a charming setting. Spend the afternoon wandering the gardens of Versailles, including the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette’s Estate, with its picturesque hamlet and ornamental gardens. Take time to enjoy the fountains and manicured grounds, perhaps pausing for photographs or a quiet stroll through the expansive gardens.
Return to Paris in the late afternoon to relax at the hotel before gathering for a group dinner at a local restaurant. This dinner offers an opportunity to reflect on the day, share highlights with fellow travelers, and enjoy the ambiance of Paris in the evening.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day to explore Paris at your own pace. This is your opportunity to experience the city in whatever way you wish, whether that means strolling along the Seine, shopping in the Marais district, or visiting museums and landmarks that interest you most. Suggested activities include a visit to the Musée Rodin, a walk through the Luxembourg Gardens, or exploring the historic Montmartre neighborhood with its art studios and Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Optional excursions are available for those who want a guided experience. Consider a private food tour sampling pastries, cheese, and wine, a day cruise to the Château de Chantilly, or a guided walking tour of hidden Parisian gems. You may also choose to enjoy a spa treatment, take a French cooking class, or explore boutique shops along the Champs-Élysées.
In the evening, gather for a group dinner at a local Parisian restaurant, where you can share stories of your day and enjoy authentic French cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to Gare de Lyon for your high-speed TGV train to Aix-en-Provence. The journey takes approximately three hours, offering scenic views of the French countryside along the way. Arrive in Aix-en-Provence in the afternoon and take a private transfer to Villa Saint-Ange, where you will check in and settle into your rooms.
In the evening, gather as a group for dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the flavors of Provence, from fresh seafood to regional specialties, while taking in the ambiance of this beautiful city.
Overnight: Villa Saint-Ange
Day 6: Lavender Fields at Valensole
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Aix-en-Provence, savoring fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, and rich coffee as the morning light filters through this charming Provençal town. From here, set out into the countryside for a day of discovery, leaving behind the elegant boulevards and fountains as the landscape opens into rolling hills and sun-drenched fields.
Journey toward the renowned lavender plateau of Valensole Plateau, where endless rows of violet stretch across the horizon in a breathtaking display. At Valensole, wander through fragrant fields at peak bloom, pausing to take in the sweeping views and capture the iconic scenery of Provence. Along the way, you may visit a local lavender farm to learn about traditional harvesting and distillation methods, gaining insight into the region’s deep-rooted connection to this beloved plant.
As the afternoon unfolds, enjoy time to explore nearby villages or browse small markets offering artisanal goods infused with lavender and other regional flavors. The return journey to Aix-en-Provence is equally scenic, bathed in the golden hues of late afternoon light. Back in town, the evening is yours to relax before gathering for dinner at a local favorite.
Overnight Stay: Villa Saint-Ange
Day 7: Aix-en-Provence to Nice & the Hilltop Villages of Saint-Paul-de-Vence & Tourrettes-sur-Loup
Say farewell to Aix-en-Provence with a leisurely breakfast before departing on a scenic transfer toward the coast. As you leave behind the elegant boulevards and fountains of Aix, the journey unfolds through rolling hills and verdant countryside, offering a glimpse into the quieter, pastoral beauty of Provence.
Along the way, pause in the enchanting hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, long beloved by artists and poets. Wander its cobblestone streets lined with galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafés, and take in sweeping views from the ancient ramparts. If you wish, stop at the legendary La Colombe d'Or, renowned for its remarkable art collection featuring works by Picasso, Matisse, and other masters. Continue on to the peaceful village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, known as the “City of Violets,” where quiet stone lanes, artisan workshops, and panoramic views over the Loup Valley create an authentic and tranquil atmosphere.
By late afternoon, arrive in Nice, where the sparkling Mediterranean marks your arrival on the French Riviera. Settle into your accommodations and enjoy time to relax before dinner, reflecting on a day filled with charming villages, artistic heritage, and the timeless beauty of southern France.
Overnight Stay: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
Day 8: Èze & Monaco | Hilltop Views and Riviera Glamour
Ease into the day with a slow, relaxed morning—sleep in, enjoy breakfast at your own pace, and settle into the rhythm of the Riviera. Later, gather with the group for lunch at a thoughtfully selected local restaurant before setting out on a scenic afternoon adventure.
After lunch, travel along the breathtaking Middle Corniche, where sweeping Mediterranean views and charming coastal villages unfold along the way. Arrive in the hilltop village of Èze, a storybook setting perched high above the sea. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, browse artisan boutiques, and take in panoramic vistas, with the option to visit the renowned Fragonard Perfumery. Continue onward to glamorous Monaco, where highlights include views of the Prince’s Palace, a visit to Monaco Cathedral, time in the iconic Monte Carlo Casino Square, and a drive along part of the legendary Formula 1 circuit.
Return to Nice in the early evening with time to refresh before gathering once more for a memorable group dinner. Enjoy fresh regional cuisine, share stories from the day, and unwind together after an afternoon steeped in the beauty, history, and elegance of the French Riviera.
Overnight Stay: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day in Nice to explore the city at your own pace. Wander through the Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its colorful markets, narrow streets, and charming boutiques, or relax on the beach along the Promenade des Anglais. This day is designed for you to follow your own interests, whether that means shopping, visiting art galleries, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean ambiance.
Optional excursions and activities are available for those who wish to enhance their day. Consider a half-day trip to the glamorous towns of Cannes or Antibes, a wine-tasting tour in the surrounding hills, or a guided walking tour focused on the history and architecture of Nice. You may also choose to explore the Marc Chagall or Matisse Museums, take a cooking class featuring Niçoise cuisine, or enjoy a boat tour along the coast.
In the evening, gather as a group for dinner at a local restaurant or continue to enjoy the city at your leisure. This day offers flexibility and the opportunity to experience Nice exactly as you wish.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
Begin the day with a final breakfast at the hotel. After enjoying your meal and taking in the last moments of the French Riviera, check out of the Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée. A private airport transfer will be provided to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport for your flight home at your preferred time.
On behalf of Walker Wellness Retreats, we want to thank you for joining us on this journey through Paris, Versailles, and the French Riviera. We hope this retreat has provided you with unforgettable experiences, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of inspiration. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on another Walker Wellness Retreat in the future.
