italy day trip from nice

Luxury of Living on the Med

Day Trips from Nice France to Italy

Easy day trips from nice france to italy.

When friends visit, I often ask if they want to do some day trips from Nice, France to Italy. To be honest, they look at me like I’ve just suggested getting on another long-haul flight. They have no idea where they are, and it’s easy to forget, geographically, when you are in Nice. The truth is, Nice is soooo close to Italy, that day trips from France to Italy are a no-brainer.

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Nice is located in southeast France, literally 15 miles to the Italian border. Yep – how’s that for long-haul?? When you are here on holidays, you absolutely must take some day trips from Nice to Italy for a completely unique experience!

Check out all my Travel Resources here to book train travel and hotels. 

The Italian Region of Liguria or Italian Riviera

The area just on the other side of the French border in Italy is called Liguria. Italy is divided into 20 regions, and most of us have heard of Tuscany. The western-most part of Italy near France is called Liguria, and its capital is Genova.

Liguria is flanked by the French border on the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Alps and Apennine mountains to the East and North. It stretches from the town of Ventimiglia in the west to La Spezia on the east.

And, Liguria itself is divided into four provinces: Imperia, Savona, Genova and La Spezia. In this region you’ll find the famously popular, luxury town of  Portofino,  and the highly-talked-about area of The Cinque Terre in the east.

If you’re ambitious, and want to go as far as Genova from Nice, here’s what you can do in one day in Genova . This area is also know as the Italian Riviera.

How to get from Nice France to Italy

There are a couple of ways to travel to the coastal towns of Liguria, Italy from Nice. It all depends on what you want to do and see, how much time you have, when you want to go, and the stress you want to endure!!  You either go by car or train.

Rent a car from Nice

You can easily drive to Italy from Nice by following the signs for Autoroute A8 east out of Nice. It’s similar to the ‘interstate-tollroads’ in the US. On this beautiful highway you will see the stunning terrain of the Alps and the ravines. It can be quite a distraction because it’s so beautiful.

The A8 turns into Route E80 once you reach Italy. Although the distance is short, it will take longer since you are crossing the mountains.  There may also be a bit of traffic depending on the time of day.

If you drive from Nice to Italy, the best time to leave Nice is after 9:30, once the commuter traffic is out of town. Then, continue on E80 and exit toward any one of the lovely Italian seaside villages to explore more.

Take the train from Nice France to Italy

When I do a day trip from Nice to Italy, I take the train. It is  always  my preferred means of transport.

The ride along the Cote d’Azur into Italy is an amazing experience all by itself. The clean and efficient train hugs the Mediterranean Sea as you pass some of the most stunning seaside villages along the French Riviera.

The French railway trains on the  SNCF line to Ventimiglia stop at all the smaller towns along the French Riviera. You’ll stop at Villefranche-sur mer, Beaulieu-sur-mer, Eze-sur-mer, Cap d’Ail, Monaco-Monte-Carlo, Roquebrune-Cap Martin, Carnoles, Menton, Menton Garavan, and in an hour, you are in Ventimiglia, Italy.

Local Ligurian Products

Keep in mind that Liguria is rich in local specialties, such as olive oils from Taggia, pine nuts, wine, fresh fish, focaccia and fresh herbs, such as basil and rosemary. These are some things to buy when you are visiting Italy on a day trip.  

Liguria is also known for pesto production. Pesto is a sauce, which is a blend of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts and olive oil. That’s it. Buy a jar of that from one of the local stores. It’s delicious. 

Ventimiglia – Easy day trip from Nice to Ventimiglia, Italy.

Ventimiglia is the first stop in Italy on the train and a very easy day trip from France. The train drops you off right in centre of town. Simply head straight out the train station doors down Via della Repubblica to begin exploring  Ventimiglia .

Views of Ventimiglia

Don’t let Ventimiglia put you off. It’s a bit grungy, and some compare it to the attitude of, “I’ve seen Mexico because I’ve been to Tijuana.” It’s not true! And that’s not true here, either. I’ve been to Tijuana  and  Ventimiglia and it’s nothing like one another, but I understand the analogy. You could decide that the rest of Liguria is not for you if you base it on Ventimiglia.  But don’t do that.

Ventimiglia is a border town with about 55,000 people and a bit rough around the edges, but that’s also its charm. It’s not glitzy and glamorous like its neighbours, and it’s certainly not dangerous. It’s a real, live, Italian town that proudly displays its old along with its new.

This below is the more modern part of Ventimiglia, where you’ll find a lovely seaside promenade, several comfortable hotels, a variety of restaurants, and local boutiques, patisseries and cafes.

What to do in Ventimiglia – Visit the Weekly Ventimiglia Market

Every Friday, at the end of Via Repubblica, along the  Lungomare  (‘along the sea’), you’ll find the weekly outdoor Ventimiglia Outdoor Market.

Here you will find 400 stalls with a mish-mash of everything. You need a beach towel? You will find them. Unique items for the home and kitchen? There will be plenty. I mean, who doesn’t want an authentic espresso maker from Italy?

Forgot your swimming suit? They have hundreds. Selfie stick? It’s there… And make room to take back some fresh fruits and vegetables, for which Ventimiglia is known.

The outdoor Ventimiglia market is a super place to find local goods. The Ventimiglia Outdoor Market is open on Fridays  only  from 8a – 4:30/5:00p.

Visit the Ventimiglia Covered Market

The fruits and vegetables in Italy, by far, surpass anything you will find in France. You often see the French popping over for produce, cheese, pasta, liquor and cigarettes – all of which are cheaper in Italy.

I often take my ‘market trolley’ and stop by the famous Covered Market in Ventimiglia (again on Via della Repubblica) to pick up fresh produce before heading back to Nice. That is where I found mounds of fresh Mediterranean artichokes for a special dinner. And the tomatoes are out of this world with several varieties coming from southern Italy. Ventimiglia’s Covered  Market is open from 7a-1p Monday to Saturday and reopens at 3p on Friday and Saturday.

Stroll Ventimiglia’s Old Town

If you want to explore the older part of Ventimiglia, cross over the bridge, near the top of Via della Repubblica, and venture up into Ventimiglia’s Old Town. The Old Town is best discovered on foot as the streets are too narrow for most cars. Walk up to the old cathedral, baptistry and crypt, and meander around the original, old walls of Ventimiglia. It’s really something special and ‘old world.’

You can also take in the city’s Roman remains – the theatre,  and tombs. Time permitting, stop by Italy’s largest Botanical Gardens, Hanbury Gardens , which are managed by the University of Genova.  And for history buffs, you might like the  Balzi Rossi Prehistoric Caves with Cro-Magnon fossils, tools and artefacts.

For lovely seaside restaurants, just continue along the Lungomare and you’ll find lots of reasonably-priced options.

Stop for a traditional Italian Apero (happy hour) in Ventimiglia

Later in the afternoon, stop for a traditional Apero in Ventimiglia before getting back on the train back to Nice. One place that does a super Italian apero is Ristorante Pizzeria Barbecue on Via Giuseppe Mazzini 13. It’s literally a 3-minute walk back to the station and a great place to enjoy some local specialities and an Aperol Spritz, which the Italians adore. They serve up some mean, tasty bites every time you order a drink! It’s a great way to close out the day before heading back to Nice on the train.

Bordighera, Italy – Day trip to Bordighera, Italy from Nice

Bordighera, Italy is the next town along the Ligurian Rivera. It’s a town of around 11,000, and is the southernmost town on the Ligurian Riviera.

Due to it’s location at the base of the Alps on Capo Sant’Ampelio, it has it’s own micro-climate and benefits from warmer winters. It’s also a place where the famous painter Claude Monet spent several months in the 1800’s.

Bordighera has a modern section of town, close to the sea, and an older, hill town. Again, the train drops you off in the centre of the modern town, and you walk straight out Via al Mercato to begin exploring left and right.

It’s a beautiful, green town with lots of lovely palms and well-manicured gardens. You can feel this town had a grandiose history with its numerous villas and palazzos. But ‘had’ is the key word. While I enjoy this part of Liguria, you can’t help but feel it’s all somewhat stuck in time.

Travel with your passport!

Important reminder: When you travel across the border into another country, you must carry your passport with you. Actually, you should always have your passport, or a copy of it, with you at all times. It’s a requirement to have identification on you, so don’t forget that. Here are some lovely, quality, RFID blocking   passport holders  I highly recommend.

Hit Bordighera’s Seaside Promenade Argentina

When you exit the station, turn to your right and you’ll find an underpass that leads to seaside promenade. This lovely walk, called Promenade Argentina, was named in memory of famous guest, Eva Peron – “Don’t cry for me, Argentina.” Here you can enjoy one of the many seaside restaurants and bars, and even take in a swim. Eventually, you’ll pass a few quality hotels in Bordighera and end up at the main road, the SS1 Via Aurelia.

Bordighera’s Alt (Old) Town

Cross the road and you’ll find a little path that leads up into a park-like area. Continue walking up, and up and you’ll come to a parking lot. Walk to the end of the parking lot near the massive, old ficus tree, and you arrive at Bordighera Old Town.

Bordighera Old Town is a quaint village to wander.  It’s quite quiet, historic and small.  There are reasonably-priced restaurants with good seafood options. One of my favourites is Ristorante Pizzeria Saraceno. I’ve been going there for years and it’s the same family-owned restaurant with excellent prices. Spaghetti with clams will cost around $11 and $8 for a 1/2 litre of wine.

Bordighera’s Weekly Market on Thursdays

Bordighera’s abundant weekly outdoor market is on Thursdays from 8-2pm. The market is along the ‘lungomare’ (seaside) and you simply exit the train, go right, cross underneath the train tracks and you’ll find more than 200 stalls to enjoy. You can’t miss the market.

A day trip to Dolceacqua, Italy from Nice

Dolceaqua, Italy, is one of the most beautiful villages in Liguria with around 2000 people. It’s between Ventimiglia and Vallecrosia, just north on highway SP64.  By car it will take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. You can also take the local bus there from Ventimiglia. Just follow the information for Linea 7 from the Riviera Transport website . The bus will drop you off in front of the main square on the ‘new side’ of Dolceacqua.

What to see in Dolceacqua – Visit the Castello di Dolceacqua

The first thing you see when you come upon the village is the impressive Castello di Dolceacqua , a fortress dating back to the 1100’s. It’s also known as the Doria Castle, after the famous Ligurian family who once made it home.

From it’s perch, the occupiers could monitor what was going on in other villages. Sneeky… The Castle has undergone major renovations and you can now visit for a fee and there are art exhibits through the year.

The impressionist artist, Monet, also visited Dolceacqua a few times with Renoir in 1884. He was so impressed, that he painted the bridge over the Nervia Creek.

From the Castello, head under the little metal bridge and keep walking up into the countryside. There are a few paths that continue leading up until you come across some more ruins. The views from above are impressive and well worth the extra hour to work up your appetite.

Admire the Vecchio Ponte of Dolceacqua

The next impressive landmark in Dolceacqua is the Ponte Vecchio or old bridge. It’s also referred to as the humpback bridge and was built in the 1300s. It connects the Old Town Dolceacqua to the newer area bridging the Nervia Creek and is consider the symbol of the city.

There are plenty of restaurants in the main square of Dolceacqua and in the Old Town area. The ones in Old Town feel a bit more authentic than the ones smack dab in the central square.

I’ve dined at Ristorante Zafferano a few times and the food it excellent. It’s hidden off one of the side streets and they offer traditional Ligurian dishes such as gnocchi, tasty bore with polenta, rabbit prepared Ligurian style. There are many great restaurants to choose from so see where the locals are going.

A day trip to San Remo, Italy from Nice

Sanremo is Italy’s version of Monte Carlo – at least it used to be… It’s is a lovely town of around 60,000 people with older, over-the-top Belle Epoque villas, a casino and a Riveria-style attitude. In the past, many of Europe’s aristocrats used to come here for the health benefits of the Riviera’s warm winters. Like other towns along this part of the Ligurian coast, Sanremo’s regal importance has diminished, but what remains is well worth a visit.

Sanremo is the home of the famous, annual San Remo Music Festival, and is said to be the inspiration behind the Eurovision Song Contests . I first paid attention to the town and festival when it appeared in The Talented Mr. Ripley film, only to discover that segment was actually filmed south of Rome.

Head for the Pista Ciclabile in Liguria

It’s also part of the Milan-Sanremo bike race held annually at the end of March. This 290 km race is one of the most important cycling races in Italy.  There is also the Pista Ciclabile del Parco Costiero Riviera dei Fiori along the seafront.

This Pista Ciclabile, or cycle path, is a wonderful, paved, walk/bike path that stretches 24 km along the seafront over what used to be the old railway line.

The Piste was finished in 2014, and both pedestrians and cyclists use the line. Rent a bike along this route to enjoy a bit of seaside cycling. You can rent regular or electric bikes and you can pick up in one area and drop off in another. It’s a lot of fun!

Pista Ciclabile Map in Liguria

Stop by the Sanremo Casino and admire the Luxury Villas

The Sanremo Casino is still in operation and you can admire many of the luxury villas on the eastern end of town.

Just past Nobel Gardens, you’ll find Villa Nobel named after Alfred Nobel of the Nobel Peace Prize. This villa, now a museum, has undergone many updates and is open to the public most mornings from 10-12:30 and a few afternoons. It is located at Corso Felice Cavallotti 116.

You can enjoy many other villas from the outside along this same area. Then you can head south to reach the seafront and bike trail.

Visit the Weekly Markets Sanremo

A visit to the weekly Sanremo open-air market is a must-do on a day trip from Nice. The twice-a-week market is on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8:00a-1:00pm in Piazza Eroi Sanremesi.

It’s located up in Sanremo old town, and you can’t really miss it if you follow the crowds. You’ll find more than 200 stalls with food and non-food items. It’s a great, busy place to wander around and you’ll find some great bargains.

Local specialties at the Sanremo Covered Food and Fish Markets

In the same area, you’ll find the Sanremo Covered Food and Fish Markets. The San Remo Food and Fish Markets are open from 6:00a to 1:30p Monday to Saturday and 4-7:30p on Saturday afternoons. It’s a great place to stock up on fresh fruits, cheeses, salamis and meats, honeys, spices, liquors, wines – you name it.

Day trip from Nice, France to Imperia, Italy

For a bit of history, Mussolini created Imperia in 1923 by combining Porto Maurizio with the town of Orneglia and various villages nearby. It’s a sizeable town of about 45,000 people with a lovely port and a great place to spend a day. It’s only 30 minutes from Ventimiglia on the train, and I’ve visited Imperia a number of times.

Imperia now has a new train station, and is a 15-20 minute walk from town. Previously, the station was smack-dab in the centre of town, which was really convenient. Now, the new train station of Imperia is about a mile out of town and it can be a bit of a schlep. Generally, it is an easy and safe walk, even at night.

Go to the Olive Festival in Imperia –  Olioliva Festival

Imperia is a lovely town to discover, particularly when they host their annual Olioliva Festival  in November celebrating that famous green fruit – the Olive. Not only will you find loads of olive products here, but also local specialties such as foccacia, honey, salami, prochetta and other tasty items to sample. We basically eat our way through Imperia! In 2019, they moved much of the festival to the seafront/port area. The festival should be over the weekend of November 13-15, 2020. If not, it will be a week earlier. 

Villa Grock, the Clown Museum in Imperia for a laugh

One point of interest in Imperia is Villa Grock, which was originally called Villa Bianca. Grock was the stage name used by an internationally-famous Swiss clown, Charles Adrien Wettach.

Wettach originally ran off with a traveling circus and became one of the highest paid entertainers in the early to mid-1900’s.

He built this lavish 50-room villa in Imperia for living and entertaining. Villa Grock is now a clown museum in his honour. You can easily see the iconic rooftop of the Villa from the Imperia train station as you exit, and there are several street signs providing directions. The museum is open only on Tuesdays from 2:30-5:30p and is located at Viale Matteotti, 147.

Visit Imperia’s Porto Oneglia Area

The town of Imperia is lovely to walk around, and you will inevitably find yourself walking down the main drag; the infamous Route SS1. Yes, this is the same road that goes through Ventimiglia, Bordighera and Sanremo….

The SS1 in Imperia is a lovely shopping street with covered porticoes on both sides, which is really refreshing when it’s scorching hot. There are lots of specialty shops and boutiques. My friends Deima and Craig can’t help but stop for shoes every time we go. The shoes are made in Italy and the prices and quality are great.

Continuing along then crossing over SS1 heading south, you’ll wind through an older part of Imperia passing the Basilica di San Giovanni Battista and eventually to the paved stretch in front of Porto Oneglia.

Restaurants in Imperia

Here you’ll find several restaurants that front the port offering some of the best seafood around. One suggestion is to try the restaurant that is on a fishing boat in the harbour. You can’t miss it. It’s the only one there.

For another treat, head to Damare Ristorante close to the port wall. It’s a family restaurant and they have reasonably priced menus of the day. The staff are super friendly and professional. We enjoyed lobster with tagliatelle for $20! Oh, and wine!

Stroll Imperia’s Promenade

Once you are have finished lunch on the port, head left (east) down the promenade on Via Angiolo Silvio Novaro. The promenade was named after the famous writer and poet born in Diano Marina, the next town after Imperia going east.

This promenade is again part of the defunct rail tracks that forms part of the 24km bike trail mentioned above. You’ll go past Koko Beach, where you can rent a lounge chair for the day and enjoy a chi-chi lunch seaside. There’s a park, a playground, a little snack shop, then it’s just seaside promenade. If you continue on this path you’ll eventually end up in Diano Marina in about an hour.

Outdoor Market in Imperia, Italy

Imperia has a sufficient outdoor market with more than 100 stalls three days a week – Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Wednesday and Saturday are at Rione di Oneglia in the main town, and Thursdays’ is near the Port at Porto Maurizio. Best bet is to get there in the morning like the other markets.

Nice Apero Stop in Imperia

A great place to stop in Imperia for an afternoon Italian Apero is at Bacan on Via Vieusseux. It’s just off the SS1 (covered portico street) as you head back toward the train station. They, too, will serve up a hefty plate of nibbles while you enjoy a $5 glass of wine or an Aperol Spritz. It’s a great way to take the edge off before you head off to dinner or back to Nice.

Hotels in Imperia

Imperia is actually a good place to base yourself if you want to further discover the neighboring areas of Liguria. I’ve stayed in the Porto Maurizio area and it has a really nice resort feel. The hotels in Imperia are very reasonable, there are some lovely restaurants, and the beach area is clean and organized with beach chairs. Give it a go. 

The next time you are in the South of France on holiday, do not hesitate to take some day trips to Italy. They really are very easy to do and you’ll have a super time discovering this wonderful part of Liguria. There is so much to see in a day trip to Italy, but if you have more time spend several days and see more than one town. Have you done a day trip from Nice or Monaco to Italy? Drop me a line and let me know how it went!  

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Comments (17)

Always wanted to go to Nice with a car and wanted to have a road trip around the country as well, these seems like a great thing to do! Thank you for sharing!

Hi, I’ll be in Nice for 3 months (Jan. 1 to March 30) and plan on bicycling, for example to the Italian border and back. Can that be done fairly easily in one day (Nice-Ventimiglia or even Nice-Bordighera if possible). And I don’t relish the idea of sharing the road with cars along a very winding road – is there a dedicated bike path/trail? Many thanks.

Hi Francois,

Thanks for getting in touch. To be honest, it’s not an easy trek. There are parts from Nice to Villefranche that have a small section for bikes, but for the most part you are with the traffic. Also, the route is quite hilly. Depending on your level of biking, it could be quite strenuous. If you are looking for a nice stretch, take the train to Ospedaletti, Italy and then grab a bike there and do the 24 km toward Imperia. That is flat and more touristy, but I would not recommend riding with the traffic. There are serious bikers here and they know the route, but I wouldn’t recommend it to someone who’s not familiar with the route. Let me know what you end up doing! Thanks for reading!! Maureen

Hi! do you have any recommendations for Easy Nice- Italy trips a bit further afield, say a a few hour train ride with an overnight or two? Genoa for example? Thanks!

Hi Helga, Thanks for your comment. From Nice, Genova will take about 4 hours. One hour to get to Ventimiglia, then wait for the next train, and then 3 hours to Genova. I will admit I’ve never visited Genova – I’ve gone by it numerous times and have changed trains there many times, but I think I’ve been a bit put off by all the industrial shipping you see as you arrive into town via train. That said, some friends went recently and really enjoyed the huge historic district, the narrow alleys of le Caruggi, the Aquarium, the food, the wine, and they took a day trip by boat to the Cinque Terre. It’s well worth a visit, but if you want to go even further you could head to Santa Margarita Ligure and explore the Cinque Terre and Portofino from there. Thanks again.

Thank you! I just happen to come across your site! Wow! My husband and I just bought a little place in Nice and due to COVID have not been there for a while. Now we will visit to explore and get to know the area more. I believe we will try your recommendation on Sanremo. What are your other favorite day trips?

Thank you so much

Hi Renee, another one we really like to visit is Imperia – especially during the olive oil festival. And be sure to take in the cycle path along the riviera there. Start from Ospedaletti – you can rent a pedal bike or an electric one and then see the little seaside villages, stop for lunch, bit of shopping and swimming. Very lovely there.

I too stumbled upon your site and your day trips look incredible. We will be in nice, Cannes, St Trope all of july and we would LOVE any other day trips you recommend. We will do this day trip (and we heard abt outlets in San Remo (are they worth it? Do you know other fabulous outlets ?). Thank you for posting this blog!!!!

Hi Beth, sorry for the delay. I’ve been traveling. When you are in Nice you can easily go visit Eze Village and Saint Paul de Vence. I have an article on Saint Paul here and nowadays you need to head to Park Phoenix on the tram and change for the buses 9, 650 or 655 that will take you up to Saint Paul de Vence and Vence village.

Eze is a lovely, small perched village well worth a saunter around. You can catch Bus 82 from Nice to Eze Village.

From Cannes you can go to Isle Sainte Margherite. That is lovely to walk around, take a swim and have lunch. You can catch the boat from Cannes harbour. Well worth the day trip. The colour of the water is stunning.

I have not personally been to the outlet in San Remo but friends have and they’ve enjoyed it. You can actually catch a bus from the San Remo Train Station – just outside to the right. €3 one way or €4 round trip – buy your ticket onboard. You can find more info at sanremo(dot)themall(dot)it. Times from station to the mall are – 9:30AM | 11:15AM | 1:15PM | 3:15PM | 5:30PM. Then from the mall to the city centre is 11:35AM | 1:35PM | 3:35PM | 6:15PM | 7:15PM | 8:25PM. Hope that helps and enjoy your stay!

Where is the rock that people are jumping off of in the photo int the “Stroll Imperia’s Promenade” section?

HI Daniel, there’s a seaside promenade on the east side of Imperia that goes to Diano Marina. It’s there between the two villages.

Hi Maureen Thanks for the information, it’s just what we’ve been looking for. The wife and i are in Nice for four days in June. Could you recommend an area and accommodation to stay while we’re there. I’ve read different things about different areas, so i’m a bit unsure. I’m looking for somewhere safe, with a bit of nightlife, where we can eat and drink until the early hours, and forget all about work 🙂 Thanks

Hi Phil, thanks for the comment. To be honest, any of the hotels along the Promenade that I mention here are good bets. There are 3, 4 and 5* options there. For 4 days, I’d stay near the sea and the Cours Saleya area or the Zone Pietonne area (pedestrian area). Great for shopping, restaurants and nightlife and all safe.

Hi, Will be in Nice early May for a few days with daughter and grand kids.. Thinking of doing a day trip in Italy . We would drive. It is easy to park ? I assume best days to avoid crowds would be the NOn markets days ? Just want to walk around and eat some good food for lunch . Dolce acqua ? probably nicer than Ventimiglia.. Oh by the way, nous vivons aux USA mais somm Francaises.

Hi Marie, thanks for your comment. Et bienvenue. Not sure if you are asking about parking in Nice or Italy? But parking in Nice these days has become very limited. You’ll most likely park in one of the parking garages dotted around town. The closest to Old Town are Palais de Justice, MAMAC or Promenade des Arts, which are near Place Garibaldi. Parking for 24 hours is €24. Otherwise you can get an abbonnement for 5 nights only (M-F from 18:30 – 08:00) for €56. Parking in Italy, specially Dolceacqua, is quite easy. And Dolceaqua is a lovely day trip with beautiful scenery and history. Once you arrive into Dolceacqua on the SP 62 from Ventimiglia, you’ll see the Castle and old town on the right. There’s a narrow 1-car bridge that goes over the Nervia River toward Old Town. Go right there and then take another right. You’ll find free parking on your left and right for free. Depending on the time of day you arrive, the ‘top’ parking might get full, but keep going down along the east side of the river (south) and you’ll find additional spots to park. You’ll find some lovely places for lunch near the cathedral in the old section, or cross back over the bridge to the ‘new’ part and you’ll find a few more tucked in there. Hope you have a great trip. I love Dolceaqua. And head up to the castle. There are some great views there. Thanks again, Maureen

Hi! We will be in Nice for a few days and looking to do a day trip into Italy. We’d like to skip the big tourist trap, so I”m thinking from your post that Bordighera may be our best bet? Is this an easy trip that can be done in a day? Will we be able to enjoy the town easily on our own? Thanks for any other recommendations!! Merci!

Hi Heather, Absolutely. Bordighera is very easy to see in a day as it’s quite small and not far from Nice. There’s lower Bordighera near the seaside where the train stops, and Alt (old) Bordighera on the hill where you’ll find some quaint shops and restaurants. From Nice, take the train to Ventimiglia, Italy which takes about an hour. Once in Ventimiglia, you catch the next local train going toward Genova or Savona. Bordighera is just another 6-8 minutes by train from Ventimiglia. Go on market day, which is Thursdays. The seaside will be buzzing with the traditional weekly market that goes until about 1p. Then head up to the old town for lunch.

Actually, none of the towns I’ve mentioned are tourist traps, except for maybe Sanremo, but not even that. Sanremo is a pretty town, bigger than Bordighera, a bit more luxurious and lots of restaurants by the sea. That’s 17 minutes from Ventimiglia and they have market days on Tues and Sat. Plus you can even take a direct train out of Nice Central train station on Thello Trains that stops in Sanremo versus the train to Bordighera where you have to stop in Ventimiglia first and switch. You’ll save a bit of time and the train from Nice leaves at 8:01 and arrives in Sanremo at 9:21, giving you lots of time. Then to return, you can either catch a Thello train back again or take a Trenitalia train back to Ventimiglia, then the French train back to Nice. Let me know if you need further help.

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The Best Day Trips From Nice: From Antibes to Italy

• By Katherine Miller
• October 27, 2023

The capital of the French Riviera, or  La Côte d’Azur , Nice is perfectly situated to be the base of many different day trips to discover the wonders of the South of France. Centrally located and equipped with a regional train line providing easy public transportation access for travelers, Nice is not only worth visiting in its own right, but also acts as a gateway to further adventures along the beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean coast. Just head over to the Gare de Nice Ville station, just a short walk from the Nice’s city center and the famous Promenade des Anglais, to embark on your next day trip. And although there are countless hidden treasures in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, some of our favorite  incontournables  (can’t-miss!) day trips from Nice are listed below.

16 Best Day Trips from Nice

• Ventimiglia
• Îles des Lérins: Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint Honorat
• Saint Tropez
• The Principality of Monaco
• Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
• Day Trips into the Alps: Saorge
• Day Trips into the Alps: Tende
• Aix-en Provence
• Saint Paul de Vence
• Villefranche sur Mer
• Cagnes sur Mer
• Beaulieu sur Mer

Hidden between Nice and Cannes, Antibes is lesser known, but no less worth a visit for a leisurely day tour. Just a half an hour train ride from the Nice Ville train stationon the local TER train (a lovely experience in itself as the train hugs the breathtaking Mediterranean coastline), the French Riviera town of Antibes retains the old world charm of its ancient past, and the sleepy authenticity of southern France. (Which sometimes gets lost in the middle of overcrowded, touristy Nice and Cannes.) Although it hosts the largest yacht harbor in Europe in  Port Vauban , and some of the world’s most luxurious villas along the  Cap d’Antibes , Antibes still manages to feels unpretentious. It’s easy to get lost in the narrow, winding stone streets of its  old town  washed in pastel colors, its  open-air Provençal market  and restaurants with fresh seafood dishes, a small collection of art galleries, and the stone ramparts dating from the 10th century that lift the old town above the sea and frame it against the background of the Alps in the distance. Visitors can enjoy  sandy beaches  along the Plage de la Gravette, or explore  le sentier du littoral , a winding coastal hiking path that will take them along the edge of the exclusive Cap d’Antibes to beautiful swimming coves hidden behind  mansions  and  elite hotels . You can also hike to the highest point overlooking the bay,  the Garoupe plateau , where you will find an old chapel and lighthouse, as well as spectacular views. Not surprisingly, Antibes’ natural beauty and charming character has long made it an inspiring haven for artists and writers, with Monet and Renoir often painting its landscapes, F. Scott Fitzgerald making it his summer residence, and Pablo Picasso even making it his home. (He is still honored with the local Antibes Picasso Museum.)

How to get there: The easiest way to get to Antibes from Nice is to take the TER train from Nice-Ville to Antibes in about 20 minutes. You could also drive, but that would take nearly an hour.

Distance from Nice: 18 miles

Time to get there: 20 minutes by train, 1 hour by car

Only 30 minutes from Nice via the A8 autoroute, or the TER regional train,  Menton  is the last seaside town on the French Riviera before the Italian border. Known as the pearl of the French Riviera, Menton’s colorful streets wind up and away from the sea at the town’s base towards a  cemetery  with spectacular views overlooking both the French and Italian coast. Visitors can take in the baroque architecture of the  17th century basilica , which serves as a reminder of Italy’s close proximity, soak up Menton’s nearly ever-present  soleil  on  la plage des sablettes , or enjoy the shade of one of its  gardens  in the hills above the Mediterranean, many of which also offer breathtaking views. Although peak tourist season is in the summertime, Menton’s climate has made it a popular year round destination – hence the origin of its famous  Fête du Citron , or Lemon Festival, an annual February tradition established in 1875 to entertain guests looking to escape the winter!

How to get there: It takes about the same amount of time to get to Menton from Nice by car or by train. Take the TER train from Nice-Ville to Menton. Make sure you get off at the Menton station, which will drop you in the city center, and not the farther Menton Garavan station.

Time to get there: About 40 minutes by train or car

3.  Ventimiglia 

Just the other side of the Italian border,  Ventimiglia  (called Vintimille in French), is the first town of Italy, and the last stop of the French regional TER train. This hidden gem is easily accessible, and it’s possible to have a croissant for breakfast in Nice, then go to Italy in 50 minutes for a pasta lunch and gelato dessert, and still be back in France in time for dinner. (Just switch your  bonjour  to  buongiorno , and don’t forget your passport!) In addition to its food, Ventimiglia’s pedestrian (the roads are too narrow for cars) old town is steeped in history with much to offer, including a 10th century church built on the site of an Ancient Roman temple, stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea, a Roman theater, a  museum  set on a cliff dedicated to the area’s history, Italy’s largest botanical garden, a daily open market, and a massive  weekly open market  if you’re lucky enough to be in Ventimiglia on a Friday. Ventimiglia’s long  history  has seen it belong both to France and to Italy, and although it is now distinctly Italian, each nation’s heritage can still be felt today.

How to get there: Take the TER train from Nice-Ville to the end of the line, the Ventimiglia stop, or drive along the coast towards Italy.

Distance from Nice: 25 miles

Time to get there: 1 hour by train, 50 minutes by car

Why bother doing any day trips from Nice if you’re not going to make a stop in Cannes? This glamorous beach town is the place to go to live out your best influencer vacation. Start with a coastal walk along the famous Promenade de la Croisette, with its palm-lined boulevard and beautiful beaches, and admire the superyachts along the Port de Cannes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Palais des Festivals, where the renowned Cannes Film Festival takes place. For art enthusiasts, the Musée de la Castre (also known as the  Musée des Explorations du Monde ) atop the historic Le Suquet district offers a captivating collection of historic instruments and anthropological discoveries (a very nice way of saying, “things France stole from other countries”). Gourmets will relish the opportunity to savor exquisite French cuisine at the local restaurants, while shoppers can explore the high-end boutiques along Rue d’Antibes. You can also enjoy a guided tour of Cannes (like this  free walking tour ) to get some history of the city while basking in the sunshine and the salty breeze.

How to get there: Take the TER train from Nice-Ville to Cannes, or travel by car.

Time to get there: 40 minutes by train, or 50 minutes by car

5. Îles des Lérins:   Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint Honorat

The beautiful islands of  Île Sainte-Marguerite  and  Île Saint Honorat , known together as the  Îles des Lérins , are just a short 15 minute ferry ride off the shore of Cannes. In the summer, there is also a ferry linking the two islands directly to Nice, however in the off-season, visitors can take the TER regional train from Nice to Cannes (35 minutes) and then take the ferry from there. Once arrived on Île Sainte-Marguerite, in addition to pristine beaches, clear blue water (where you can even snorkel to an  underwater sculpture museum ), and the shade of immense eucalyptus trees, visitors will find an intriguing history. The island is home to the prison of the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask (a French state prisoner whose identity remains a secret, but is rumored to have been the brother of Louis XIV), and the Fort Royal, which offers not only a  museum , but also breathtaking views across the bay of Cannes. Visitors to Île Saint Honorat can discover a beautiful monastery built in 1073. The island has been inhabited by the monks of Lérins Abbey for over a thousand years, and today, they also operate a vineyard that produces over 30,000 bottles of wine. A particularly special time to visit the island is on the first Friday of the month, when  visits to the vineyard and wine tastings  are organized.

How to get there: You’ll need to take the TER train or drive to Cannes to get to the Îles des Lérins. Once there, the Port de Cannes is a short walk from the train station, and you can book a ferry from the port to either island. (Roundtrip fare is included in a ticket purchase, but you should check the schedules ahead of time to make sure you can get back without a long wait.)

Distance from Nice: About 30 miles

Time to get there: To get to Cannes, it will take 40 minutes by train, or 50 minutes by car. The  ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite  takes 15 minutes, while the  ferry to Île Saint Honorat  takes 30 minutes.

6. Saint Tropez

While nature and tranquility are the prized reputation of Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint Honorat,  Saint Tropez  is famous for its jet set crowd, and its notoriety as an exclusive, elite destination for luxury shopping and partying. However, there is much more to this French Riviera island than the Brigitte Bardot and Beyoncé-certified Club 55. Visitors to the island can explore Saint Tropez’s colorful old town dating to the 15th century, when the island was nothing but a fishing port, discover its  citadel and maritime museum  at the top of the island (which offers beautiful views over the bay), and of course, try the island’s local specialty desert,  la tarte tropézienne .

How to get there: Saint Tropez is accessible from Nice by daily  boat  in the summer, leaving from Nice’s Old Port, or by car.

Distance from Nice: 75 miles

7. The Principality of Monaco

Although within the borders of France, and under 30 minutes from Nice on the local TER train,  Monaco  is a different country, so don’t forget your passport on this day trip! Visitors to Monaco can explore its famous Casino,  Monte Carlo , or visit the  Oceanography museum , perched atop a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and founded by Prince Albert I. You can even explore the Prince’s Palace (the  Palais Princier du Monaco ), and see the  private collection of antique cars  of his royal highness, Prince Ranier III (who famously married American actress Grace Kelly). Monaco also has its own Formula One Grand Prix Circuit, called the Circuit de Monaco, for any racecar aficionados.

How to get there: Take the TER train from Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo, or enjoy a short drive along the coast.

Distance from Nice: 13 miles

Time to get there: Half an hour by train or car

8. Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

In terms of day trips from Nice along the French Riviera, this one is not to be missed. The main tourist attraction of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, between Nice and Monaco, is the  Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild , a luxurious Belle-Époque era seaside estate just a stone’s throw from Nice. Once the home of Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild, the villa and its exotic garden is now open to the public great for a luxurious day tour. Visitors can enjoy its nine extensive formal and exotic gardens, as well as tour the Venetian-style palazzo mansion, and take in the stunning Mediterranean views over Saint Jean Cap Ferrat that are visible from nearly every angle. Tickets can be bought  online , where visitors will also be warned if the villa is reserved for a private event. If you’re hungry while there, Béatrice’s former dining room has been converted into a restaurant terrace, where you can stop for light refreshments.

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is also an amazing place to go hiking. The Sentier du Littoral path is easy walk around the Cap gives you access to pastel-toned waters that seem to melt into the sky around sunrise or sunset.

How to get there: The easiest way to get to the Villa Ephrussi from Nice is by car. But you can also opt for a bus trip on the Line 15 from Promenade des Arts to Passable/Rothschild.

Distance from Nice: 6 miles

Time to get there: 30 minutes by car, 45 minutes by bus

9. Day Trips into the Alps:  Saorge

Although Nice is most famous for its position on the Mediterranean Sea, its proximity to the Alps shouldn’t be forgotten. Luckily the  Train des Merveilles  links Nice with the lower Alpine villages and allows travelers to enjoy breathtaking views of steep mountains and valleys along the way. If taking the morning train, travelers will also hear a guided tour of the mountain region’s fascinating history. One particularly beautiful stop along the train’s route is  Saorge  (roughly a 2 hour train trip up through the mountains from Nice to the Fontan-Saorge train station). This medieval village in the mountains is known as the “French Tibet” for the way homes are built into the mountain itself, and the entire village clings to a cliffside.

How to get there: Take the Train des Merveilles from Nice-Ville to Fontan-Saorge, or get there by car.

Distance from Nice: 44 miles

Time to get there: 2 hours by train or 1.5 hours by car

10. Day Trips into the Alps: Tende

Another can’t-miss Alpine village is  Tende , the last and highest stop on the Train des Merveilles (2.5 hours from Nice). At an altitude of 800 meters, Tende is said to be “between Heaven and Earth.” Visitors can explore its medieval passages carved into the mountain side, the maze of its stone old town, a fortress built by Napoleon, a 15th century baroque church, and stunning mountain views, which on a clear day sometimes extend all the way back to the Mediterranean Sea.

How to get there: Take the Train des Merveilles from Nice-Ville to Tende, or get there by car.

Distance from Nice: 50 miles

Time to get there: 2.5 hours by train, 1 hour and 40 minutes by car

11.  Aix-en Provence

The Provence region is a longer day trip than those previously mentioned (roughly 2 hours by bus or car from Nice), and while possible to do as a day trip, the slow-paced, leisurely lifestyle that the Provence region is famous for may cause you to want to linger, especially upon discovering the vast quantity of things to see and do. (For more extensive travel ideas around this area, check out our  Travel Guide to Western Provence .)

The closest Provençal city to Nice is also the capital of the region, and so, a perfect introduction:  Aix-en-Provence . For lovers of art and culture, Aix is a dream, with stately architecture and avenues,  Cézanne’s studio , and the  Musée Granet , which has an extensive collection of works by Cézanne and other artists inspired by the Provence region. There is also the  Hotel de Caumont  mansion with its museum and gardens, and of course outdoor food, flower, and antique markets. And if you happen to drive in during the summer, you’ll likely get a peek of rolling hills planted with lavender in the surrounding region.

How to get there: Take the Flixbus 482 from Nice Vauban to Aix-en-Provence, or travel there by car.

Distance from Nice: 113 miles

Time to get there: 2 hours and 10 minutes by bus or car

1 2 . Saint Paul de Vence

The medieval village of Saint Paul de Vence is a dream visit for architecture lovers. The village’s defensive walls, which encircle Saint Paul de Vence, offer splendid panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the Mediterranean, and the Alps in the distance, while the stone buildings of the town are adorned with ivy, flower-filled window boxes, and charming artisan shops. Stroll through the Rue Grande, the village’s main street, and explore art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. The tiny squares and hidden courtyards, like the oft-photographed Place de la Grande Fontaine, will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

One of the other primary draws of the small town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is its rich artistic heritage. This village has been a magnet for artists and creatives for decades, and remains full of small art galleries. The renowned  Fondation Maeght , an art museum within walking distance of the village center, features a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum itself is a work of art, with sculptures and artwork dotting the surrounding gardens. As you walk through its galleries, you’ll encounter works by famous artists like Joan Miró, Marc Chagall, and Alberto Giacometti. Chagall is actually buried in the cemetery of Saint Paul de Vence, and art lovers can visit his grave to pay homage.

To finish your trip to Saint Paul de Vence, be sure to stop in to  La Cave de Saint-Paul , a 14th century wine cellar, for a wine tasting of some of the region’s best vintages.

How to get there: Driving is the easiest way to get to Saint Paul de Vence, but you can also take the TER train to Cagnes sur Mer, then transfer to the 636 bus, taking it from Les Puits to the Village stop.

Distance from Nice: 17 miles

Time to get there: 1 hour by car or by train/bus

13. Villefranche sur Mer

Just next door to Nice, Villefranche sur Mer is like Nice’s more low key cousin. Less touristy but just as beautiful, the charming village of Villefranche sur Mer has some of the best beaches on the French Riviera, like the Plage de la Darse, where you can swim in the crystalline blue waters or lounge on the pebble beach tucked away behind the Promenade des Professeurs, or the sandy beaches of the Plage des Marinières. Originally a fishing village, Villefranche sur Mer boasts a picturesque harbor and old port dotted with colorful buildings and fishing boats, and its historic Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and pastel facades, will make you feel like you’re starring in your own French film. (You can even duck underneath the picturesque part of Villefranche sur Mer and explore the medieval military passage called the Rue Obscure.) The town also offers the intriguing Citadelle Saint-Elme, a 16th-century fortress with a museum and panoramic views over the bay, as well as the Chapelle Saint-Pierre, a picturesque chapel adorned with Jean Cocteau’s vibrant frescoes. Make sure to schedule a day trip from Nice to Villefranche sur Mer; it’ll be the easiest one you could possibly do.

How to get there: Simply take the TER train two stops from Nice-Ville to Villefranche sur Mer. Alternatively, you can take a quick drive, or even walk there if you are coming from the eastern side of Nice.

Distance from Nice: 5 miles

Time to get there: 15 minutes by train, 20 minutes by car

The hilltop village of Èze is one of the most beautiful towns on the French Riviera, and a perfect day trip from Nice. This medieval village is actually constructed from two parts: Èze bord-de-Mer by the sea, and Eze Village at the top of a steep cliff. The rocky outcrops of the town make for incredible views, and you could get lost for hours in the winding cobbled streets and old stone houses. Philosophy fans can hike along Nietzsche’s Path, where the philosopher came up with many of his most famous theories. Less adventurous nature lovers might prefer the Jardin Exotique, a stunning cactus and succulent garden set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. And for those interested in history, the Èze medieval Castle Ruins are a must-visit. These ancient remnants offer a glimpse into the village’s storied past and provide more magnificent panoramic views of the coast.

How to get there: The easiest way to get to Èze for a day trip from Nice is by car. But you can also take the 82 bus line from Vauban to the Eze – Village station. Make sure not to take any bus or train to the other station in town, called simply “Èze,” because this will take you to the bottom of the hill and you will spend a long time climbing up it to get to the village. This is why we would not recommend taking the TER train to Èze.

Distance from Nice: 8 miles

Time to get there: Èze is a quick half hour drive from Nice, or 35 minutes by bus

15. Cagnes sur Mer

The seaside resort town of Cagnes-sur-Mer is an easy day trip from Nice, not even a half hour’s journey away, ideal for a no-stress day tour. Start your exploration at the Château-musée Grimaldi, a historic castle perched atop a hill overlooking the Old Town of Haut-de-Cagnes. The castle now houses the Musée de l’Olivier, which is dedicated to regional olive oil production. Nearby is the Musée Renoir, dedicated to the famous artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir, who spent his final years in Cagnes-sur-Mer. The museum showcases his works and offers a glimpse into his life.

The medieval town boasts charming narrow cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. You can explore galleries, boutiques, and restaurants while wandering through this picturesque district. Cagnes-sur-Mer also offers a beautiful coastline with pebble beaches, perfect for a leisurely day by the sea. The Promenade de la Plage provides a scenic backdrop for a seaside stroll, and water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like windsurfing and paddleboarding. The town is also famous for its Hippodrome de la Côte d’Azur, a horse racing track that hosts several races throughout the year.

How to get there: Take the TER train from Nice-Ville to Cagnes-sur-Mer, or travel west along the coast by car.

Distance from Nice: 9 miles

Time to get there: 40 minutes by car or 15 minutes by train

16. Beaulieu sur Mer

In terms of day trips from Nice, Beaulieu-sur-Mer is one of the fastest and most efficient options. This teeny tiny beach town is home to the Villa Kérylos, an incredible Greek-inspired villa built at the turn of the 20th century. If you’re making a stop at the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, you may as well get a  combined ticket  and go one stop further for the Villa Kérylos. Lounge on the Plage des Fourmis and Petite Afrique beaches during the day, and in the evening, try your luck at the  Casino de Beaulieu .

How to get there: Take the TER train three stops from Nice-Ville to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, or take a quick car ride over.

Time to get there: 20 minutes by car, 15 minutes by train

Where to Stay in Nice

We have a complete guide to the  best hotels in Nice , and the  best Airbnbs in Nice , but here are some of our top recommendations for making home base while planning your day trips from Nice.

Tucked in the side of the cliff face of Castle Hill, the historic  La Pérouse  is the epitome of Riviera luxury. Though built in the 1930s, the hotel has been recently renovated to include all modern amenities.

Hôtel Rossetti

Hôtel Rossetti  is one of the most affordable hotels in Nice’s city center, with a Baroque façade juxtaposed with stylish, minimalist interiors. Book well in advance.

Le Panoramic

This bougainvillea-draped 1920s villa is tucked into the hills of Nice on a quiet street. It may be a walk to the beach, but  Le Panoramic  has a superb location, along with a restaurant with 360-degree panoramic views for watching the sunset.

Day Trips From Nice – Frequently Asked Questions

Can you do a day trip to provence from nice.

It’s possible but Provence is such a vast and beautiful region, you may likely want to extend your daytrip into an overnight or two! If you only have time for day trips from Nice, go to Aix-en-Provence, the closest to Nice, and the best overall introduction to the Provence region.

Can you day trip to Monaco from Nice?

Bien sûr!  A Monaco day trip from Nice is quick and easy, about a half hour, and only a few euros away on the local TER direct train. Just don’t forget your passport, as you’ll be going to another country!

How many days should I spend in Nice?

There is so much to see and do in the French Riviera city of Nice, as well as the surrounding area, you’ll want at least a week to explore.

Katherine Miller has lived most of her adult life in either Paris or New York, and her world has become a beautiful mélange of French and American culture, a mixture she loves sharing with those who also harbor her passion and curiosity for travel, language, and culture.

Also Read : The 20 Best Things to Do in Nice: Nice Bucket List 2023

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French Riviera Day Trip to Italy from Nice

Are you looking for ideas on the perfect French Riviera day trip? We turned to Céline O’Donnell, a private tour guide in Nice, for her recommendations on a day trip along the coast to Italy from the city.

She has lived in this Côte d’Azur city for 40 years and now runs walking tours and a guiding service called Nice by Heart . After studying and working in London, O’Donnell returned to Nice, where she shares the city highlights on Nice by Heart walking tours.

Day Trip to Italy

While there are many possibilities for exciting excursions in the area, my preferred day trip is to Italy by train. Nice is only 32 kilometres from the Italian border, and it’s easy to go by car or train . Here is the detailed “menu” for the perfect day getaway from Nice: an escapade to Italy, teatime in Monaco, and an evening in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

9:30 am: Take the 9:35 train from the Nice Central train station to Ventimiglia, Italy. Sit on the right side of the train and enjoy beautiful coast views. The train passes by Villefranche, Beaulieu, Eze, Cap d’Ail, Monaco and Roquebrune cap Martin. (Note: Trains from Nice to Ventimiglia daily, every 30 minutes, and the journey takes 50 minutes.)

10:30 am: Arrive in Ventimiglia and wander near the station, visiting shops selling clothes and Italian specialties.

11:03 am: take train to Bordighera. The journey from Ventimiglia to Bordighera takes 10 minutes.

11:13 am: Arrive in Bordighera for a walk by the sea and a ristretto coffee with an Italian pastry on the seafront. Then, swim and relax in the sun.

12:30 pm : Have lunch at La Reserve restaurant, a 14-minute walk from the train station. The restaurant’s setting overlooking the sea is beautiful, and the dishes are copious and delicious.

Ristorante La Reserve Via Arziglia, 20, 18012 Bordighera Open daily

2:15 pm: Walk back to the train station for the 2:37 pm train back to Ventimiglia, followed by the 2:55 pm train from Ventimiglia towards Nice. But the day trip is not over. In 31 minutes, you will arrive at the underground train station in Monaco .

Descend from the train and follow the “Monte Carlo” exit signs. Once in Place du Casino, admire the beautiful cars, the luxury stores, and the sumptuous Belle Époque buildings. Then, take a walk through the Boulingrins Gardens or visit the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo. Please note that while there is no specific dress code for the casino, proper attire is required, which means no sports clothing (shorts, tank tops) or flip-flops.

4:30 pm: Enjoy a gourmet afternoon teatime at the famous Café de Paris and its legendary outdoor terrace.

Café de Paris 3 Prom. des Anglais Open Daily

5:59 pm: Take the train from Monaco to Villefranche-sur-Mer. It’s a 14-minute trip.

Villefranche-sur-Mer

6:15 pm: Arrival in Villefranche-sur-Mer . The railway station is located directly above the beach. You might feel like having another swim there or walking along the bay. Heading to the right from the train station will take you to Villefranche’s old town, and going further up the hill, you will arrive at the citadel.

7 pm: Finish the day trip with a glass of wine and a tempting charcuterie selection at the Grande Cave in the village centre. This bar is my favourite place in Villefranche-sur-Mer for an apéro dinatoire . We call having drinks and delicacies instead of dinner an apéro dinatoire.

Grande Cave 4 Rue de l’Église Villefranche-sur-Mer

8:44 pm: Take the train from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Nice.

9 pm: Arrive at the Nice central train station, and voilà —a perfect day trip from Nice!

Please note: The train schedules written above are for this date. They don’t usually change, but it will be a good idea to check before planning your day trip. You can do that and buy your tickets online here .

Book a place to stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel. While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles. Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg . Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles) .

Hello! I’m so happy I found this page. I have a question about your train trip to Italy. Did you buy a round trip ticket from Nice to Ventimiglia, and just get on and off at the various stops on the way back? Or do you have to buy separate tickets, Ventimiglia to Monaco, Monaco to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Villefranche-sur-Mer to Nice? Thank you!

Thank you for reading and following Perfectly Provence. There are different rail passes that you can buy including some day passes such as this one that allow for on-off travel. Enjoy your trip!

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13 Day Trips from Nice: best tips by a Nice local

Hi France Travel Planners! France Travel Planning Facebook group member and Nice resident, Eric Schwartz, is back with his top tips for day trips from Nice. Nice makes an excellent base for exploring the Côte d’Azur and there are so many fantastic Nice day trips to consider. You can catch up on Eric’s detailed guide to visiting Nice here >>

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Nice is perfectly situated on the Mediterranean coastline, making it a great base from which to visit other popular French Riviera villages, cities and sites in the surrounding area. Most places to visit near Nice are quite easy to reach by public transport. Any place on the coast south of Saint Raphaël is more challenging, as the TER (Transport Express Régional) train turns inland from the coast at that point. Specifically, Saint Tropez, which is on many people’s lists of places to see, can be quite an extensive journey.

If you’re searching for a slower pace, you also might consider making any of these places your ‘home base’ in the South of France. Each offers a more relaxed vibe than Nice and would allow you to experience small-town coastal life. Villages such as Menton, Beaulieu or Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat are quiet and very easy to navigate. Other places to stay on the French Riviera are Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer or Cannes (Saint-Tropez is alluring but is not easy to get to without a car). Each village has its own appeal. A little advanced research can help you choose the one best suited to you.

The following can easily be reached by the TER from any of the three main stations in Nice with the longest journey being just about an hour one-way:

Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer

Ventimiglia

Villefranche-sur-Mer

How to use the train for day trips from Nice

It is standard practice to buy TER tickets on the day of travel and I often don’t buy them until I’m at the station. There are ticket kiosks at every station, or you can download the SNCF app on your mobile device and purchase them on your phone and then store the tickets in your mobile wallet. You can purchase either a one-way or round-trip ticket if you know your return time, but I’ve never seen a price reduction for buying the roundtrip tickets. Your ticket is valid on any train for the day of travel between your two designated departure and destination points.

Trains normally run about every half hour in each direction in this region, except in early morning and after the evening rush hour. On some of your journeys, you might see conductors walk through the coaches to scan your QR code tickets and at the main Nice station you’ll have to scan the QR code at the barrier to proceed to the departure platform. The SNCF does offer multiple-day and family passes, usually from May to September. They can be found under the category Produits Touristiques at the kiosks.

The TER are comfortable double-decker, climate-controlled trains with bathrooms. There is no assigned seating and food service is not offered onboard.

If you’re heading east toward Ventimiglia, sit on the right side of the train for the best sea views. If you’re headed west, choose the left side for sea viewing. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

It will be most convenient to select the station that is closest to where you’re staying, but if you need assistance, the main station in Nice, Gare Thiers, has SNCF personnel there to help. The other two stations, Riquier, located on the east side of Nice and north of the port, is unmanned, as is Saint-Augustin, which is to the west and closer to the airport.

If you prefer to purchase your train tickets online or in advance you can purchase them here >>

Best day trips from Nice

The following is a list of places I’ve visited and enjoyed on the Côte d’Azur. I am confident that you will find them to be as interesting, diverse and fun to explore as I did.

Day trip to Antibes from Nice

Antibes has a slower pace than Nice and is a great place to just relax and unwind. It is on a direct line from Nice by TER train, which is the easiest way to get there (about a 25-minute ride).

The Ramparts, which have protected the city since the 10 th century, surround a stunning harbor and port area, where multi-million-euro yachts are moored. If you take a stroll along the walls, you can get a good view of the foreboding Le Fort Carré. At the end of the port near the sea wall, you can actually see fisherman selling the day’s catch and working on their nets and gear.

Antibes feels authentically French with fewer English-speakers and less commercialism than Nice.

The old city offers medieval and Renaissance fortifications and a Picasso museum, operating in Château Grimaldi since 1966, housing almost 250 of his works plus those by other artists.

The city’s old town is a great focal point for foodies and art lovers as there is an abundance of restaurants in all price ranges and loads of galleries and ateliers. Place de la Republique hosts a street market which alternates between antiques, fresh produce and household goods, depending on the day of the week. Place de Gaulle features a great water fountain in the summer where you’ll see children splashing about. The pristine sandy beaches are located on the Cap d’Antibes and also near Juan-Les-Pins.

The Marché Provencal is an impressive iron-clad indoor market where vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, meats and spices. On either side of the market are tiny restaurants tucked away almost out of sight, but well worth investigating. Parc de la Pinède is a great spot for a picnic (after buying lunch at the market). The park is located closer to Juan-Les-Pins. If you don’t want to go that far, continue on the Ramparts past the Picasso museum where there are benches for sitting, eating and soaking up the sun.

In Antibes, there are some of the best restaurants for a town of its size. Here is a list of some of my favorites:

La Storia , a hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurant in the old city center that offers very tasty and imaginative dishes as well pizzas. It is located at 1 Boulevard Dugommier, 06600.

Le Pimm’s is a traditional French brasserie, and you won’t find a menu in English there. There is a regular menu, a daily prix-fixe menu, daily plates and you hardly hear anything other than French being spoken. It is at 3 Rue de la République, 06600.

Bistrot du Coin will also give you an authentically French dining experience, but be warned, they don’t accept cards. They are at 7 Rue de la Pompe, 06600.

Others worth mentioning include Casamici at 24 Rue Lacan; Crêperie du Port at 22 Rue Thuret, the longest running family business in Antibes; and Chez Marguerite, at 33 Rue Sade.

If you crave French bread and pastries like I do, one of the best bakeries in Antibes is Boulangerie Veziano, which supplies many of the high-end hotels in Cap d’Antibes with their delicacies.

If you decide to make Antibes your base for visiting the French Riviera, and your budget is limitless, then plan to stay at the five-star Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc . It is beyond luxurious .

If your budget is more moderate like mine, then a couple of hotels in Antibes’ center are worth considering if you want to stay overnight:

Hotel Le Relais du Postillon , 8 Rue Championnet, 06600. Very well-run three-star hotel that has an excellent bar and breakfast;

La Place Boutique Hotel , at 1 Av. 24 Août, 06600 is my other three star choice

There is an artist in Antibes by the name of Lui Ho, who places plaster reliefs of faces or people, or drawings and paintings, in the most unexpected places around Antibes. Keep your eyes peeled for them, as you just never know when you’ll find one! France Travel Planning Travel Tip

Visit Eze Village from Nice

Eze Village is one of the must do day trips from Nice – the medieval, walled, mountaintop village, is not to be confused with Eze-sur-Mer, the small seaside former fishing village. Both sites are within close proximity to one another, but one is perched on a mountaintop and the other is at the seaside. Eze Village is filled with unique artisan shops tempting day-trippers with clothes, jewelry, art and craftworks.

The walkways in Eze Village are composed of uneven cobblestones and are challenging to navigate. There are a lot of steep inclines and declines and stairs to negotiate, so strollers could be a challenge. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

How to travel to Eze Village from Nice by public transportation

To get to Eze Village, you can use almost any mode of transport including bus, taxi, Uber, or the TER regional train, or a combination thereof. For buses departing from Nice you can take either the #82 Plateau de la Justice or #112 Monte Carlo. You can catch either of them from the gare routier (bus station) Vauban. Take Tram #1 toward Hôpital Pasteur to Vauban. Get off at the Vauban tram stop and walk to the backside of the Lidl through the arched stone rail bridge passage to find your bus. The #112 does not run on Sundays. The #82 runs hourly. Go in the early morning and queue up as buses to Eze Village can get very full. Either ride will take approximately 30 minutes. When Eze Village comes into view, you’ll get off the bus at the bottom of the new part of the village by a small convenience store. The return stop back to Nice is across the street and downhill by the gas station.

You can also take Tram #2 to Port Lympia and then walk to the back of the church and follow that street (Bavastro) three blocks until you get to Rue Barla, which is where you will find the Bavastro bus stop. You can get the #82 from that stop as well. Finally, you can take the TER to Eze-sur-Mer (toward Ventimiglia or Menton). Just outside of the train station is a bus stop where you can get bus #83 toward Plateau de la Justice, (eastbound) which takes about another 15 minutes and follows the winding road around the walking path. The walking path takes about an hour to hike and is almost a straight uphill climb to the village. It is fairly strenuous and not for the faint of heart.

During summer months, (June-September) it can extremely hot and dry during the day, so if you’re hiking, make sure to bring water from Nice if you’re planning to walk the path. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

Michelin star restaurants in Eze Village

If you plan your trip far enough in advance and would like to eat at one of the Michelin star restaurants like La Chèvre d’Or Gourmet Restaurant or Château Eza, make your reservations well in advance. I made mine three months in advance, as they booked up quickly. It’s easier to get a lunch reservation. Be sure to ask for a table with a sea view.

Château Eza also has a lounge bar with terraces overlooking the stunning Mediterranean Sea and walk-ins are welcome, but space is limited, so plan accordingly and either arrive right at the opening for lunch or go later. The menu is much more limited than the full-fare restaurant, but you’ll find a selection of pizzas, salads, sandwiches and appetizers as well as a bevy of adult beverages including non-alcoholic ones.

Best things to do in Eze Village

Climb all the way to the top of the village for commanding views from Le Jardin Exotique d’Eze. The entrance fee ranges from 5-7€ per person depending on when you visit. There is also a small church and cemetery in Eze that are worth seeing. If you’d like a quick bite of lunch or an afternoon drink, my favorite spot is Creperie Le Cactus, squeezed onto the edge of the walking path, just past the fortified entrance gate. The kitchen and indoor tables are located in a grotto across the walking path.

Just down another hill at the bottom a winding driveway of the village is the Fragonard Perfume factory , which makes mostly soaps and lotions. The tour in English is remarkably interesting, giving insights into the history and how the perfume industry got started. All the Fragonard fragrances are for sale in the boutique. However, not all are available to purchase outside of France so you may want to make your purchases on-site. I purchased several trial boxes, each having an assortment of fragrances, and are available for both men and women.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: a must see on the French Riviera

A small, walled, artisan community nestled in the pre-Alps inland, with views of the sea from high points Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a must visit from Nice. It is one of the oldest medieval villages in the French Riviera and has breathtaking views of the valley below. While it has some stairs and streets with inclines and declines, it is much easier to navigate than Eze Village.

The village attracted artists like Marc Chagall, who is actually buried in the cemetery there. It offers something for everyone including modern and contemporary art museums, antique stores, specialty local food stores, art galleries and an abundance of restaurants to choose from. There are also a few hotels within the village, but I have not personally stayed at any of them. There are several sections of the medieval wall you can walk atop of for an only-in-Europe type of experience.

Plan to spend the day there to get the most out of your visit. Leave Nice after breakfast, plan to have lunch in Saint-Paul-de-Vence (SPdV) and return before the rush hour mid-to-late afternoon, to avoid the crush of travelers and commuters. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

Once you arrive at the SPdV bus stop, you will wind your way down a gradual inclined street where you will find a pétanque field. There, you’ll almost always see locals playing under the shady trees in the courtyard, which is conveniently situated next to a small restaurant serving up several types of refreshing beverages. The village has a tourism office just after the main fortified gate up the street on the right. There are also public restrooms located throughout the village.

How to travel to Saint-Paul-de-Vence from Nice

The village is situated inland, west of Nice, and is reachable by bus or TER and bus. To get to SPdV by bus from Nice, take bus #400 Vence (par St-Paul) from Parc Phoenix. You can easily reach this gare routier (bus station) by taking Tram #2 toward either Airport or Cadam and departing at Parc Phoenix. The bus station runs alongside the tram stop. The bus takes about 45 minutes to get there and departs about every 45 minutes. You may use your Lignes d’Azur ticket traveling toward SPdV, but for the return bus trip, you will have to purchase a ticket from the driver. Be sure to have some small bills or exact fare for the return trip, as the driver can’t break anything over a 5€ note normally.

If you prefer, you can go by TER from one of three Nice train stations and depart at Cagnes-sur-Mer and take the #400 from there. It is a bit more expensive, but also a little quicker.

Where to eat in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

One of my favorite spots for lunch in SPdV is the restaurant La Colombe d’Or. There, artists such as Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, the Spanish artist Miro, French film star Yves Montand, and the American sculptor Alexander Calder exchanged their works of art for overnight stays or meals. Their original pieces still adorn the walls of the hotel/restaurant. Reservations are necessary and should be made at least three months in advance.

Another one of my favorite dining spots is La Terrasse Panoramique – simple cuisine and breathtaking views. You can normally walk in and get served but you might have to wait a bit for a table on the terrace, especially around lunchtime.

The old city center of Vence is often overlooked by visitors and takes about another 15 minutes by bus to get there from Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The Matisse Chapel of the Rosary, (Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence) is a exquisite chapel that Henri Matisse designed and personally funded to build. His designs adorn the stained-glass windows inside. The chapel is not located near the old center but is an easy uphill walk from the bus station. Explore the old city center (cité médiévale) and wander around the narrow streets and shop all the galleries and goods offered by the local craftsmen. La Cathedrale Notre-Dame de la Nativite de Vence is the smallest church in France but from inside feels surprisingly expansive.

Are you planning a trip to France? My France Travel Planning Facebook group is a vibrant and friendly group where you can ask questions, learn from others and get great advice. You can join here >>

Monaco is worth a visit on your tour of the French Riviera if you have time. If you want to see glitz and glamour, the Monegasques will not disappoint.

Take the TER regional train from Nice to Monaco. Navigating your way down into the city from the train station can be challenging, but I’ve walked it before without issue. Note that you might not have cell-service in Monaco as the Monegasques’ provider doesn’t seem to play well with others. To get an overview of the principality, I’ve taken the hop-on/off bus. Sites to see include the Palace (check to see if it is open the day you’re going), Le Palais du Prince, The Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco, Prince Rainer III, the aquarium, Le Musée Oceanographique, the casino and the lobby of the Hotel de Paris.

There are plenty of charming parks in town, and you can also walk around the Jardin Exotique, the Jardin Japonais, and the Princess Grace Rose garden in Monte-Carlo, dedicated in 1984 to memorialize Grace Kelly, wife of Prince Rainier III. You can visit their graves inside the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, also known as Saint Nicholas Cathedral. The church is open daily, free of charge, from 8:15 a.m.-6 p.m. and can be visited except during mass services.

One of my favorite eateries in Monaco is the unassuming Marche de la Condamine. It is a food hall and fresh produce market that offers an upbeat atmosphere and is frequented by locals and those who commute to work in the city. It is open daily for breakfast and lunch.

Trains to and from Monaco can get quite crowded and if you’re planning to spend the day in Monaco, try to return to Nice before 4 p.m., as once the commuters start home it can be very difficult to get on the train at all. This problem is heightened during the Monaco Grand Prix. Unless you’re specifically going to Monaco for the Grand Prix, I would avoid that timeframe – roughly from late May/early June. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

You can read Jo’s Monaco day trip itinerary here >>

Day trip to Italy from Nice

If you take the TER all the way to the French Italian border (terminus eastward), you’ll end up in the small seaside Italian village of Ventimiglia . Ventimiglia has an expansive covered market, which is open every day (closed on Sundays) until about 1 p.m. It is located at Via della Repubblica, 7, 18039 Ventimiglia. Tuesdays through Fridays there are more vendors, and one in particular, just in front of the faux-flower stand, sells hand-made mountain cheeses that are especially delicious. She has a large, white or small counter-top black refrigerator (depending on the season) in a simple stand off the main street leading from the train station, Via della Repubblica. The produce is amazingly fresh.

There are also fresh pasta stands, a fish market, butchers, fruit stands and specialty food vendors, as well as flowers, luggage and some other assorted odds and ends.

On Fridays there is also a street market worth meandering through that runs 8 a.m.-3 p.m. The market was started in 1920 as a cattle market. Today it has booths running from the train station all the way down the river to the beaches. You can find made-in-Italy products, food and lots of items at outlet prices, including shoes, leather bags, perfumes, homegoods and much more. This Ventimiglia market feels more like a flea market than prestigious goods, with a lot of knockoffs and imposter fragrances. It is charming but be sure to barter with the vendors – they are expecting it.

There is now an elevator to the top of the hilled old village center or you can walk up the ramps and stairs from the front or back side of the village near the port and see several old churches, including the Oratorio della Confraternita dei Neri Mortis et Orationis or the ‘church of the dead.’ It is decorated with skulls and bones and is small but interesting.

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is also very impressive with its stone walls.

One of my favorite places to eat in Ventimiglia is the restaurant on stilts overlooking the bay – Ristorante Margunaira at 3 Passeggiata G Marconi, 18039. They have incredibly fresh and varied seafood dishes. When I first visited there in 2015, no one spoke English, but more recently, the wait staff mostly does. Il Vesuvio Ristorante Pizzeria, 14A Via Trossarelli 18039 is another excellent choice for Italian meals. The small and unassuming Bookaffé, was one of my most favorite meals in this city, at Via Sir Thomas Hanbury, 2C, 18039 Ventimiglia. It has a handwritten menu that changes weekly and is run by just two people. The food is all hand-crafted and fresh.

There is not typically any border control to verify your documents, but to be on the safe side, I always travel with my passport when going to Italy from France. When returning from Ventimiglia toward Nice headed west, the train might be detained momentarily at the first station back in France or in between two stations while border control agents patrol the train compartments. This is perfectly normal and will only take a short time.

If you go to Italy and you’re in need of wine or spirits, it is substantially less expensive to buy in Italy than in France. You can bring five bottles of wine back to France and up to 1.5 liters of hard alcohol or three liters of liqueurs per person. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

You might consider combining your day trip to Ventimiglia with a stop in Menton . Menton is known among the French as the retirement capitol of France, so the sidewalks tend to roll up at about 9 p.m. and the town is not known for its nightlife. But it has a picturesque old town with the Basilica de Michael Archangel, a beautiful port area and a nice pedestrian-only street.

You will find a mixture of both sandy and pebbly beaches there. It has some unusual seaside cafés where the wait staff play ‘Frogger’ to get across the street with your order.

While near the sea, you could visit the Jean Cocteau museum. We loved the Jardin Botanique Val-Rahmeh and the shaded jungle-like environs offer a cool break from the coastal sun.

Menton also boasts a fantastic covered market. Be sure to get there well before noon, as vendors start closing around then.

One of my favorite restaurants in Menton features incredible Italian cuisine, La Trattoria, and can be found just off the Jardins Biovès.

One of my favorite fragrance stores is also in Menton – Prestige de Menton. The store opened in 1947 and has original citrus-based scents. I find that it is better to purchase the eau de parfum because the scent fades away rather quickly for both the eau de cologne and the eau de toilette.

If you’re visiting Menton in February during the La Fête du Citron (Citrus Festival), expect heavy crowds and over-stuffed trains, but the exhibits are fun, playful and very imaginative.

I’ve stayed at the Hôtel Vacances Bleues Royal Westminster and found it to be a very nice three-star hotel situated in the heart of the city and not a far walk from the train station. It offers a very hearty breakfast and rooms to fit almost every budget. The sea-view rooms, while more costly, have amazing views.

Cannes: a popular day trip from Nice

You can’t talk about day trips from Nice unless you include Cannes . Surprisingly, while Cannes has a refined atmosphere, when the film festival is not attracting actors and actresses with their throngs of fans, it is rather quiet.

Arriving in Cannes at the main train station, you are just 450m from the Croisette, or Cannes’ equivalent to the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Cannes does have some of the most pristine sandy beaches as well as a vast selection of beach clubs to choose from if sunning is your goal.

If you’re planning a trip to Cannes, you should definitely stop in the Carlton Hotel to gasp at their 350-million-euro renovation – the décor is over the top. While perusing you could also make a reservation for high tea at the Camélia Tea Lounge or stop into Bar°58 for a refreshing adult beverage. We also had appetizers and drinks out on the terrace next to the bar and it was quite enjoyable.

As you’d expect, Cannes is home to some of the most prestigious luxury goods retailers in all of the south of France and you can easily leave your hard-earned euros behind in a number of places on Rue d’Antibes. For a more local approach to shopping, which will take less of a toll on your wallet, take a stroll down Rue Meynadier. It is lined on either side with houses from the 18th century and is also filled with souvenir shops, candy stores and other temptations.

Cannes has a farmers market called Marché Forville – an enormous indoor fresh market, which is open every day (except Mondays) in the mornings.

In the old part of Cannes, which includes both Rue Meynadier and the Forville market, it’s worth climbing to the top of the hill to discover the Museum and the Church of Notre Dame de l’Espérance. There you can not only enjoy both sights, but also admire the breathtaking view over Cannes.

At the end of the Croisette, at Pointe Croisette, you’ll find a pleasant park called Port Pierre Canto with “La Roserie” garden. There you can take a break during your sightseeing day at one of the benches and gaze at the jaw-dropping moored yachts.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and would like to venture off the beaten path, take a boat to Île Sainte-Marguerite. There you can find Le fort Royal, a fortress with prison cells and Roman relics at the Museum of the Iron Mask.

On another island a bit further out, L’île Sainte Honora, is the Monastère Fortifié de L’abbaye de Lérins, which is also an interesting place. It still functions as a place of worship for monks, and you can go for services or a wine tasting. On this island be sure to make reservations at La Tonnelle, a restaurant known for its local wine selections.

Here are some of my favorites in Cannes, from most to least expensive:

Astoux et Brun, (Seafood), 27 Rue Félix Faure, 06400 Cannes

Le Caveau 30 , (French) 45 Rue Felix Faure, 06400 Cannes

Aux Bons Enfants , (French) 80 Rue Meynadier, 06400 Cannes

The Duck’s Pub , (Gastro Pub) Félix Faure, 06400 Cannes

Best towns and sites to visit near Nice

If you still haven’t had your fill of beauty, charm and southern French hospitality, you could also visit some of the surrounding villages and sites.

I recommend the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, built by Beatrice Rothschild from the fortunes made by the family’s banking interest. It’s a delightful mansion housing an extensive art collection and expansive gardens in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat . You can get there from Nice on bus #15 from Promenade des Arts – or the closest stop near you for line 15 to Passable/Rothschild. The bus stop is situated just a short uphill walk to the villa.

The villa has a lovely tearoom, which also serves lunch and/or coffee – great for a short break or an afternoon happy hour on your sightseeing day. One of my favorite restaurants at the port in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is Léo Léa Assiette au Bœuf. They serve amazing burgers and some of the best steak I’ve had in France, called La Beouf Paradis, which is served with a delicious sauce. Unlimited fries accompany every dish–wow! We also typically get the Café Gourmand, which includes an espresso and three small desserts. Ordering a Café Gourmand is the only way to get your coffee served with your dessert – in France it will otherwise be served afterwards.

If you’re not into the thick and strong espresso coffee the French drink, ask for a Noisette, which literally translates to “hazelnut,” but is espresso with a small dollop of steamed milk, as the French will find it very odd if you try to order a cappuccino, latté or café au lait after breakfast time. France Travel Planning Travel Tip

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers some of the best coastal walking trails around. You can explore the peninsula, trekking to Beaulieu-sur-Mer by way of the Promenade Maurice Rouvieror or by finding your own slice of heaven on a secluded beach. You can get to these by taking either the Pointe Saint-Hospice headland to Paloma beach or Tour of Cap-Ferrat, ending at Passable beach.

While in that area, you could also explore Beaulieu-sur-Mer , another beautiful village on the coast and only about a 10-minute TER train ride from Nice or the #15 bus.

I enjoy going to the Sunday Italian market any first Sunday of the month, year-round, held in the main plaza – Place Marinoni. The market opens and 9 a.m. and normally starts shutting down by late afternoon. It has a variety of fruits, vegetables and Italian-made goods like clothing and handcrafts, as well as wines, olive oil, foccacia, cakes and cookies. It also has a small selection of cheese and meats.

Year-round there is a Provencal market every Saturday. There is a fresh market there every other day of the week as well, but it is much smaller in scale and just in the morning.

Also in Beaulieu, which I haven’t had a chance to visit yet, is Greek Villa Kerylos – a house in Ancient Greek Revival style built by archaeologist Theodore Reinach in the early 1900s. It still contains all the original contents of the home and is apparently worth seeing. Beaulieu does have a nice but small sandy beach called Plage des Fourmis.

One of my favorite places to eat in Beaulieu-sur-Mer is Café Le Beaulieu. It has live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings – definitely make reservations.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a very small, peaceful village with sandy beaches. It is a nice place to visit or stay. There are not a lot of activities to do there other than renting an electric tricycle/car to bop around in or watching the cruise ships come in and out. It has some really good restaurants and is a great place to hide away if rest and relaxation is your goal.

Cagnes-sur-Mer/Juan-les-Pins are both coastal towns and very quaint, offering visitors everything they need for either a “get-away from it all” type of experience or nice beaches and activities for a day trip.

Cagnes is a small but interesting town on the French Riviera. It has a great shopping center called Polygone Riviera, boasting over 70 shops, 119 Av. des Alpes, Cagnes-sur-Mer. It is an open-air concept mall, which includes all types of boutiques, restaurants and a movie theater.

Cagnes also has a Renoir museum, which was actually the home of the artist until his death in 1919. It has some of his works on display but primarily takes you on a journey of how he lived, showing his bedroom, living area, drawing room and workshop.

If you’re still yearning to explore more medieval villages, le Haut-de-Cagnes, located on castle hill, is only about a 20-minute walk from the downtown area or from the main gare routier in Cagnes. There is a free shuttle (#44) operating every 15 minutes, seven days a week. Among the pebbled streets you’ll find churches, galleries, workshops, Chateau Grimaldi (now a museum), fountains and plenty of restaurants to choose from. In addition to Renoir, artists including Matisse, Modigliani, Soutine, Villeri, and Derain, were also drawn to Haut-de-Cagnes. The charming village has also drawn many celebrities including the likes of Josephine Baker, Suzy Solidor, Georges Simenon and Brigitte Bardot. 

Juan-les-Pins also has some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the area and has plenty of dining options but feels very residential in nature. Surprisingly, and contradictorily, it also has a thriving nightclub scene, with many clubs staying open until early morning. It has adequate grocery stores and is a great place to visit or stay, but really, other than a water park, Aquasplash and Marineland, doesn’t offer much in the way of activities or sites. Park tickets are pricey; 25€ for adults and 22€ for children. A combined entrance to both parks for adults is 43€ and children 33€. It is typically open from the beginning of June to the first week of September.

Nice day trips: exploring Beyond the Shore

If you’ve been to Nice multiple times and had the good fortune to be able to do a number of the best Nice day trips, then perhaps consider looking beyond the shoreline and into the pre-Alps to expand your knowledge of the area. There are two easy trips to quaint mountain villages:

On the Train des Merveilles (meaning “Train of Wonders/Marvels”) – there are actually two routes leaving Nice from the main Gare Thiers station: one going through Ventimiglia and the other skirting its way along the Vallée des Merveilles and the Mercantour National Park. The more direct ride is spectacular, and it will be difficult to decide which mountain village you should stop at, but most people will opt for either of the medieval towns of Breil-Sur-Roya or Tende. Some but not all of the trains actually go all the way to the rail terminus in Cuneo, Italy.

Two of the outbound train trips per day feature a bilingual French and English-speaking guide, provided by the SNCF between the months of June and September, and weekends during May and October, so be sure to book one of those excursions. The route traverses stunning scenery and the line follows the Peillon River into the Roya Valley, crisscrossing the Alps between France and Italy. There are 11 stops between Nice and Tende and the journey takes about two hours.

The medieval town of Tende features beautiful Italianate architecture, is a great starting point for hikes, and has awe-inspiring churches and castles. The town was built on a steep hillside and is terraced with many steps.

Many use Tende as a base for hiking and exploring the region as you are within close proximity to several mountain ranges and national parks. For those visiting in winter, Val Castérino offers a variety of winter sports including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Just 20 km north of Tende, you’ll find Limone-col de Tende ski resort for downhill skiing. For summer hiking, you’ll find the Via Ferrata close by Saint-Sauveur Chapel, which offers hikers two breathtaking trails.

When in Tende, be sure to visit the Musée des Merveilles. It provides a great history of the area from stone-age man and has many artifacts from the surrounding mountains. Museum entrance is free, and a guided tour can be had for just 20€ for up to a group of 10 people. The village has an interesting history with many of the buildings containing murals, some of which bear an IHS crest above doorways, meaning Iesus (Jesus) Hominum (of humankind) Salvator (Savior). The crest was a protection or blessing for the home.

There is also a substantial church for the size of village with a tall bell tower – the Collégiale Notre-Dame de l’Assomption with its Baroque trompe-l’oeil motifs painted exterior, dating from the 12th century. It can be visited almost any time during the day other than when mass is being given.

My favorite restaurant in Tende is La Margueria – a family-run establishment with a charming rustic interior. It has a wood-fired pizza oven and offers a seasonal menu that changes almost daily. 19 Avenue du 16 Septembre 1947, 06430.

Le Train des Pignes is a narrow-gauge railway running from Nice to Dignes-les-Bains. It is operated by the Chemins de Fer de Provence railway and departs from a small station tucked away behind the now de-commissioned Gare de Sud, called Gare de Nice CP (Chemins Provence) station. The train stops in outlying suburbs of Nice, including the Centre Commercial Nice Lingostière, another massive but good mall, with one of the largest Carrefour hypermarkets I’ve ever seen. The railway then climbs up the steep terrain toward its destination – about 150 km from Nice, taking about three-and one-half hours, one-way.

If you really want to make your journey interesting, take the train to Puget-Theniers where you can get on board a steam-powered locomotive. This train will make a brief stop in the medieval hillside village of Entrevaux before proceeding to Annot and terminating in Le Fugeret. This special locomotive typically only runs on Sundays with an occasional Thursday or Friday thrown in between, May to November.

Digne-les-Bains is a great place to visit, and while there are no longer any Roman baths from when the city was at its height of commerce, there are modern thermal baths and spa services to be visited. If you want to make a mini-trip out of it, there are plenty of hotels, campsites, bed and breakfasts and apartments-for-rent by owners. The town is filled with activities and interests for most everyone.

Wherever you end up spending your time in the Côte d’Azur, with it alluring azure blue water, friendly and helpful people, sunny skies and amazing sights, you can’t really go wrong. The descriptions and places listed in this article are just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more to see and do, so come to the south of France as you’ll surely make some fantastic discoveries of your own.

Bon Voyage!

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17 Fantastic Day Trips from Nice

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: June 6, 2023

Home >> Europe >> France >> 17 Fantastic Day Trips from Nice

The 5th largest city in France, Nice is considered the capital of the Côte d’Azur. And while there is so much to do in Nice, the French Riviera boasts some of the most beautiful places to visit in southern France – all within easy reach of Nice.

From charming hilltop medieval villages to some of Europe’s swankiest beach destinations and cities. You can even nip across the border to Italy for a change of scenery and culture – Visit the best places in the French Riviera on these day trips from Nice. See our guide to the annual weather patterns in Nice to choose the best time to visit.

Table of Contents

How to Get Around the French Riviera

The entire French Riviera is very well connected with train and bus services. We give you the public transport information for each destination where available.

The train (TER Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur) is often the most convenient and fastest. Some destinations are better explored by car or on a day tour if you don’t wish to drive yourself. We give tour recommendations where we believe they are good value and make sense.

Car hire from Nice is very easy, even if you only want to rent for a day or two. Be mindful that there can be a lot of traffic in the peak summer period.

Discover Cars  search for the best rates in Nice with prices starting at less than €150 for two days in early summer for a small car which is perfect for navigating Nice and small towns.  See here to compare car rental rates .

Tip: For accurate bus timetables and routes – download the Lignes d’Azur App . It has more accurate schedules and services for the Nice Côte d’Azur region than you will find online. Look on the map on the app to find a bus stop near you and the services available.

You can buy train tickets at the train station for the closest destinations, but for further destinations such as Ventimiglia, booking in advance during the peak season is best to get the timings you want.

17 Fantastic Day Trips from Nice – See the Best Places in the French Riviera

35 minutes driving | 21 km

The incredibly wealthy Principality of Monaco is a sovereign city-state and microstate on the French Riviera. It is known for its luxurious lifestyle, glamorous atmosphere, casinos, and the famous Monte Carlo Grand Prix. One of the most popular day trips from Nice, Monaco, is a short train ride away. 

A must-see destination for those visiting Nice, there is a lot to see and do in the glitzy city of Monte Carlo and the tiny Principality of Monaco.

Visitors can explore the palace of the ruling Grimaldi family, rub shoulders with the mega-rich at the beautiful Monte Carlo Casino, or go for a spin on the famous Formula One circuit. (We especially enjoyed driving the famous Formula One circuit in our tiny Fiat Panda rental car)

Explore the old town, visit the oceanographic museum, or take a stroll along the famous Monte-Carlo beaches and the renowned harbour full of impressive mega yachts. Monaco, one of the smallest countries in the world, dishes up an impressive sneak peek at the lives of the rich and famous. 

How to Get to Monaco from Nice

• Train.  Monaco is on the direct train TER train line operated by SNCF, the major rail company in France. The journey can take as little as 15 minutes, with trains running all day.
• Bus.  Take the Bus 100 Monaco/Menton from the top of the Port across from the tram stop ‘Port’. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes, and buses depart every 15 minutes during the week.  Tip : Sit on the right side of the bus for some gorgeous scenery. 
• Car.  Take the scenic Grand Corniche to Monte Carlo, approximately 35 minutes from central Nice. 

Tour Recommendations for Monaco

• From Nice: Half-Day Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Tour
• From Nice: The Best of the French Riviera in One Day , including Èze, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Paul de Vence and Cannes.
• Monte Carlo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• From Nice: Small-Group Night Tour of Monaco

50 min driving | 28.8 km

Located just a short train ride from Nice (25 minutes), Antibes charms visitors with its beautiful old town, lively markets and glorious powder sand beaches.

Those not fussed with the pebbly shores of Nice find their ultimate French Riveria setting on the laid-back  Cap d’Antibes  peninsula and along the  Juan-les-Pins  coastline. 

Antibes offers a great mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the picturesque old town and historic fortresses, visit the Picasso Museum in the Château Grimaldi, where Picasso spent three months painting, or take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. See the largest marina in Europe, Port Vauban, which boasts an impressive array of mega yachts. 

Shop for local produce in the Marche Provencal morning market and relax on  Place Nationale,  one of several beautiful squares, while enjoying a local  tisane  herbal tea. 

For outdoorsy types, take a hike along Tire Poil Trail that follows the coast to the Cap d’Antibes. 

Tips for Antibes : Antibes is on the way to Cannes, which makes a great combined day trip from Nice. 

Utilise the 1 or 2-day open-air hop-on-hop-off bus in Antibes to see all the major sights and monuments, including Juan-Les-Pins, and Cap d’Antibes – See here for details and tickets .

How to Get to Antibes from Nice

• Train.  The TER regional train has a direct service between Antibes and Nive Ville. Travel time is approx. 25 minutes and trains regularly all day. 
• Bus.  Take the 200 Bus, which is approx. 40 minutes.
• Car . Approx. 30 minutes on the A8.

40 min driving | 33 km

Southwest of Nice, past Antibes, Cannes is known for its famous film festival, luxurious soft sandy beaches, high-end shopping, and celebrity lifestyle. It’s not surprising Cannes is one of the most famous and popular destinations on the French Riviera. 

Cannes offers a great mix of culture and glamour. Visitors can explore the old town and the Old Port and visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès for a photo on the famous red carpet, which is out all year long. Take a stroll along the famous Croisette beach and see the stylish boutiques and restaurants or go shopping at the Forville Market.

How to Get to Cannes from Nice

• Train:  There are direct trains all day from Nice-Ville Station, which take approx. 30 minutes.
• Bus:  Catch Bus 200, which will take approx. 45 minutes.
• Car:  Approx. 30 minutes from central Nice.

Cannes Tour Recommendations:

• From Nice: Billionaire’s Splendors Half-Day Tour of Cannes
• Round-Trip Ferry to St Marguerite Island
• Discover the Calanques of the Esterel

36 min driving | 22.6 km

The charming medieval village of Vence is just a short bus ride from Nice and offers a great mix of art, culture, and natural beauty.

The quaint hilltop town in the hills of the Alpes Maritimes department is known for its art galleries, museums, and the Chapelle du Rosaire, a famous chapel designed by Henri Matisse. 

Take a stroll through the old town where you can collect the famous Vence spring water from various fountains. There are plenty of typical cafes to discover, along with Vence’s long connection with art. Explore the markets held daily in the main square, Place Maréchal Juin.

Outside the historic walls, you can enjoy beautiful views and stroll around the Place du Frêne and the Place du Grand Jardin, next to the Porte du Peyra. 

How to Get to Vence from Nice

• Train:  The bus is the most direct route, so we will not bother with train information.
• Bus:  Catch Bus 400 from Nice, which will take approx. 40 minutes.

Tour Recommendation : Half-Day Saint Paul de Vence and Wine Tasting Tour from Nice, including wine tasting and transport.

• Saint-Paul-de-Vence

35 min driving | 20 km (15 minutes from Vence)

A short distance from Vence is Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the medieval hilltop village known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean, charming cobblestone streets, art galleries, charming cafes and charismatic atmosphere. 

Visit the Renoir Museum and the Foundation Maeght to view a stunning collection of modern art showcasing artists such as Marc Chagall and Joan Miró – note that the Maeght Foundation is a short walk out of town. 

Visit the grave site of Chagall, stroll through the village’s historical centre, and enjoy the beautiful views from the ramparts.

Stop for lunch on the patio at the famous Colombe d’Or Restaurant . Once frequented by legendary artists such as Matisse and Picasso, the family-run auberge boasts a priceless collection of art and a gorgeous setting for a long lazy lunch. 

How to Get to Saint-Paul-de-Vence from Nice

• Bus:  Catch Bus 400 from Nice, which will take approx. 45 minutes.
• Car:  Approx. 35 minutes from central Nice. 

Tour Recommendation : Flavor & Taste of Provence . Experience the beauty of the French Riviera on a 5-hour tour of the pretty villages of Saint-Paul de Vence and Grasse, famous as the world’s perfume capital. See here for details .

50 min driving | 45 km

The world’s perfume capital, the charming hilltop town of Grasse, is known for its perfume industry and offers a great mix of history and culture. 

There are around 30 perfume factories ( perfumeries ) in the town where you can learn about perfumery and create your own signature scent.

The Fragonard Perfume factory (by far the most famous), Molinard, and Gallimard perfumeries are the best to visit, offering guided tours and workshops. 

The lovely village with tree-shaded courtyards, charming outdoor cafés, and quaint cobblestone streets is in the foothills of the Maritime Alps, surrounded by beautiful and aromatic fields of Provincial flowers – so a stroll through the old town offers gorgeous views.

Visit the Musée International de la Parfumerie (International Perfume Museum) and the Grasse Cathedral, which contains many important works of art, including paintings by Rubens.

How to Get to Grasse from Nice

• Train:  There is a direct train from Nice to Grasse, which takes approx. one hour, depending on the service. You can take the shuttle from Grasse station directly to Grasse town centre, which is approx. 1.5 km up the hill. 
• Bus:  The 500 Bus departs from various stops in Nice for Grasse. Travel time is approx. 1.5hrs. 
• Car:  Approx. 50 minutes (48 km) from central Nice. Be mindful that parking in Grasse can be difficult in peak season. 

Tour Recommendations for Grasse

• Perfume Making Class and Fragonard Factory Tour
• French Riviera & Medieval Villages Full-Day Tour
• Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon Day Tour with Wine Tasting

25 min driving | 12.3 km

The charming medieval village of Eze has an enviable location high on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Only a short bus ride from Nice, Eze offers a great mix of history and natural beauty. It’s not surprising it is one of the most popular day trips from Nice. 

 Eze is the quintessential French Medieval postcard town known for its narrow cobbled streets with stone houses draped in greenery, exotic gardens and charming local restaurants. 

Visit  Le Jardin exotique d’Eze  to see an impressive collection of exotic cacti and other botanical species. The 5-star  Château de La Chèvre d’Or  is also famous for its gardens and exotic animal statues and is a great place for lunch with magnificent views at the Ramparts Restaurant. 

If you’re feeling active, you can hike  the Nietzsche path  for incredible views.

How to Get to Eze from Nice

• Train:  The train to Eze drops you at the bottom of the hill in Eze-Sur Mer. Bus 83 runs between the station and Eze village, but it is not regular. In this case, you will need to walk up the Nietzsche Trail to reach the village. I recommend taking the bus below directly to the village and hiking down, as the Nietzsche Trail takes at least an hour and is steep. 
• Bus:  Take Lignes d’Azur bus 82 or 112 Nice’s Valbaun bus station along the scenic Grand Corniche to Eze village. Travel time approx. 35-45 minutes. 
• Car:  Approx. 25 minutes (12.3 km) from central Nice. Be mindful that parking in Eze can be difficult in peak season. 

Tour Recommendation for Eze: From Nice: Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip

Saint Tropez

1 hr 45 min driving | 111.6 km

The glamorous seaside town of St Tropez is known for its luxury yachts, designer boutiques, stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. 

Soak up the lavish lifestyle of St Tropez, where luxury yachts now outnumber fishing boats in the Port. Head to Plage de Pampelonne and Plage des Graniers for crystal-clear waters and fine sand.

Enjoy panoramic views of the town and sea from the Citadel, a 17th-century fort. People watch in Place des Lices, a picturesque square home to a lively market, on Tuesdays and Saturdays – you’ll also find excellent restaurants serving traditional French cuisine and seafood.

If you want to stay after dark, Saint Tropex has no shortage of luxe bars and clubs, such as the legendary Les Caves du Roy .

How to Get to St Tropez from Nice

• Bus or Train:  There are no direct bus or train services from Nice to St Tropez. You need first to take the train to Saint-Raphael, then Bus 7601, which takes an hour and a half to St Tropez.
• Car:  By car is the easiest way to get to Saint Tropez, although it can be slow during the peak summer season with traffic.
• Boat:  There is a direct ferry from Nice to St Tropez in high season. It is the most efficient, enjoyable and budget-friendly way to reach St Tropez. You Can book tickets here:  From Nice – Round-Trip Transportation to Saint Tropez by Boat .

Day Tour Recommendation : A day tour is a great way to maximise your time with included transport. This day tour to Saint Tropez includes Saint-Tropez, Port Grimaud, and Sainte-Maxime –  From Nice – Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Boat Tour .

39 min driving | 29.2 km on the A8

Menton is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities we’ve visited on the French Riviera. Menton is the last city on the French coast before you hit the Italian border, and  Italy’s stunning Liguria region  five miles away. 

The colourful coastal city oozes charm with a good dash of Italian influence. We are not the only ones who consider Menton one of the most beautiful places on the French Riviera, as the city dazzles visitors with clusters of villas in pastel hues of pink and orange.

Menton is known for its agreeable microclimate, high end designer shops, upscale restaurants, and palm-fringed beaches. The hilly old town also boasts beautiful historical buildings and magnificent views over the coast.

Visit the 18th-century Basilique Saint-Michel and the Cimetière du Vieux Château for stellar views over the city and sea. See the ornate facade of La Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs and visit the Musée Jean Cocteau collection to see works by poet Jean Cocteau. Stroll along the Promenade du Soleil to soak up the sunshine and views. Menton will undoubtedly steal your heart as it did with Queen Victoria when she visited in 1882.

How to Get to Menton From Nice

• Train:  There is a direct train on the TER line from Nice, which takes approx. 40 minutes.
• Bus:  Take Bus 100 from Nice Port to Menton. Travel time is approx. 1 hr.
• Car:  The fastest route is on the A8, which will take approx. 40 minutes.
• Ventimiglia Italy

46 min driving | 39.4 km

Pop over the border to Italy for a change of culture for the day. Only 20 minutes from Menton, you can make a great combined day trip from Nice.

One of the most charming towns in Liguria, Ventimiglia, a short train ride from Nice, offers a glimpse into the culture and history of Italy. Upper Ventimiglia is one of Liguria’s most important historical centres, preserving almost ten centuries of the city’s history. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman ruins, including the Roman Theatre, or wander through the charming streets lined with shops and restaurants.

Visit the caves of Balzi Rossi and prehistoric museum, and the stunning Hanbury Gardens, the most famous acclimatisation garden on the Riviera and one of the most important in Europe. The Cathedral of Ventimiglia is considered one of the best examples of the Romanesque architecture of Liguria.

The covered market of Ventimiglia dates back to 1922. It was the first construction in Europe for the marketing of cut flowers.

The market is still very famous in Italy and neighbouring France for the variety and quality of its fruit and vegetables, typical gastronomic products, and of course, flowers. While staying in Liguria, the Ventimiglia market was our go-to for incredible Italian produce and local pesto sauces.

On a Friday morning, Ventimiglia is famous for its vast outdoor market selling everything from knock-off designer clothes, shoes, plants, cheese and typical Italian produce. 

How to Get to Ventimiglia from Nice

• Train:  There are direct trains from Nice to Ventimiglia on the regional TER train line. There is no border control. Approx. 50 minutes
• Car:  Approx. 45 minutes on the A8.

Italian Riviera Tour Recommendation from Nice :

Italian Coast & Markets Full-day trip to the Italian Riviera from the French Riviera, visiting either Ventimiglia or San Remo markets and the authentic Italian 12th-century hilltop village of Dolceacqua. See here for full details .

• Villa Ephrussi and Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat

28 min driving | 10.3 km

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an exclusive coastal town a short bus ride from Nice, offering a great mix of luxury and natural beauty. 

Along with fantastic beaches and plenty of stylish villas and gardens to admire, the highlight is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

The residence of Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, daughter of the wealthy banker Baron Alphonse de Rothschild, offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the incredibly affluent during the early 20th century. 

Visitors can explore the various rooms and gardens of Villa Ephrussi, filled with art and antiques in the style of an Italian palazzo.

Surrounding the villa are expansive, immaculately landscaped grounds overlooking serene deep-blue Mediterranean waters. Explore a stunning array of French, Japanese, and Provençal gardens, an Exotic Garden, a fragrant Rose Garden, and one that includes Roman archaeological relics.

Visit the  Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild site  for tickets, opening hours and events information. 

How to Get to Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat From Nice

• Train:  Train is not the most direct route. Take the TER to Monaco-Menton from Nice Ville and get off at Beaulieu sur Mer. Then take the bus 15 direction port de Saint-Jean. Approx 40 minutes.
• Bus:  Take Bus 15 from Promenade des Arts stop in Nice in the direction of Port de Saint-Jean. Approx. 35 minutes.
• Car:  The fastest route is on the A8, which will take approx. 30 minutes.

See all the most Beautiful Houses on the French Riviera in One Day .

Discover the architectural heritage of the Côte d’Azur on a One Day Extraordinary Houses Tour from Nice. Visit Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Fragonard perfume factory in Eze, the Monte Carlo Old town, beautiful Monte Carlo Casina and the famous Grand Prix Circuit. See here for full tour details .

• Villa Kérylos and Beaulieu-sur-Mer

22 min driving | 9.6 km

Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious yachts, vibrant nightlife and upscale shops and restaurants.

There is plenty to enjoy in Beaulieu-sur-Mer: Explore the charming narrow streets in the old town with its picturesque squares and old buildings, such as Saint-Michel’s church.

Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a popular spot for people-watching and beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Relax on one of Beaulieu-sur-Mer’s beautiful beaches, including Plage de Passable and Plage des Fourmis. Visit the Exotic Garden, which has a collection of plants from around the world, including cacti, palm trees, and other tropical plants.

A highlight of Beaulieu-sur-Mer is Villa Kérylos . The beautiful villa is a replica of an ancient Greek home and offers a glimpse into ancient Greek culture and lifestyle.

Archaeologist Théodore Reinach, in collaboration with architect Emmanuel Pontremoli, created the villa in the style of a noblemen’s house on the Island of Delos in Greece, accurately following 2nd-century BC Greek building methods.

The villa’s furnishings, mosaics, and decorations accurately replicate those found in archaeological collections. 

Visitors can take a guided tour to step back a few millennia to a lavish scene of ancient Greece and learn more about the villa’s history and architecture. See the  Villa Kérylos website  to plan your visit. 

How to Get to Beaulieu-sur-Mer From Nice

• Train:  There are regular trains from Nice Ville to Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Approx travel time 10-15 minutes. 
• Bus:  The bus is not the most direct way to reach Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
• Car:  Approx. 20 minutes.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer

24 min driving | 9.1 km

A few kilometres from Beaulieu-sur-Mer, the charming coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is known for its picturesque old town and stunning beaches. 

A picturesque harbour lined with colourful Italianate buildings set against rolling hills of olive groves and a very agreeable microclimate is one reason stars like Tina Turna keep a villa in Villefranche-sur-Mer. The town has also been featured in films such as  Never Say Never Again  and  To Catch a Thief.   

Beyond the quaint harbour and gorgeous sandy beaches, visitors can explore the narrow streets of the historic centre and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants serving fresh seafood. Visit the Citadelle Saint-Elme , an ancient fortress with stunning views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea. See the  Eglise Saint-Michel  church built in the town’s characteristic Italian Baroque style.

By the harbour is the 16th-century  Chapelle de Saint Pierre des Pecheurs . The fisherman’s chapel was decorated in 1956 by Jean Cocteau, who often stayed at Villefranche-sur-Mer and  Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat . A scene from his film,  Le Testament d’Orphée,  was set on the atmospheric  medieval Rue Obscure , which is below the old town in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

A laidback alternative to Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer makes a great day trip or even a nice place to spend a few days. 

How to Get to Villefranche-sur-Mer from Nice

• Train:  There is a direct train from Nice. Approx 10 minutes
• Bus:  Take bus 15. Approx 20 minutes. The Octroi stop is the closest to Villefranche’s old town. Approx six minute walk. 
• Car:  Approx. 20 minutes from central Nice.

Tour Recommendation :

Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay . See Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Villefranche-sur-Mer on a one-hour sightseeing cruise along the French Riviera. See here for details .

• Cagnes-sur-Mer and Haut-de-Cagnes

26 min driving | 12.9 km

The small French Riviera town of Cagnes-sur-Mer, with its pretty beaches, and picturesque old town lined with colourful houses, is where Impressionist artist Renoir spent the last 12 years of his life. 

At the Musée Renoir , dedicated to the works of the French painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, visitors can see the famous painter’s tranquil gardens, home and studio. 

Take the complimentary shuttle, bus 44, from Square Bourdet to the smaller medieval village of Haut-de-Cagnes . It is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the narrow lanes of the small town and visit the Château-Musée Grimaldi, a museum and art gallery in the castle of Cagnes-sur-Mer. 

How to Get to Cagnes-sur-Mer from Nice

• Train:  There is a direct train from Nice to Cagnes-sur-Mer from Nice. Approx. 25 minutes. 
• Bus:  Take the 200 Bus from Nice. Approx 30-35 minutes.
• You can find information here about the  free shuttles in Cagnes-sur-Mer .
• Driving:  Approx. 25 minutes from central Nice on the A8. Parking can be difficult in Hautes-de-Cagnes, so use the free shuttle from Cagnes-sur-Mer.
• Gorges des Alpes-Maritimes Driving Tour

For those who enjoy a scenic drive, the Gorges des Alpes-Maritimes Driving Tour is a scenic self-driving tour through the Alpes-Maritimes region of the French Riviera. The route takes visitors through the beautiful landscape of rocky cliffs, lush vegetation, and clear mountain streams with stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.

One route takes you through the Gorges de Daluis and the Gorges de la Vésubie, where you can admire the stunning scenery and stop at various viewpoints. The tour also takes you through the charming villages of Saint-Martin-Vésubie, Utelle, and Colmars-Les-Alpes, where you can stop for a meal or a drink.

One of the tour’s highlights is the Col de la Bonette, the highest road pass in Europe at an altitude of 2,715 meters. The drive offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Finish in the town of Barcelonnette, where you can explore the charming old town and visit the Musée de la Vallée.

It’s important to note that the tour is winding and steep at some points, so be mindful to drive slowly and carefully and check the road conditions and traffic before starting, especially in winter.

• Hilltop Villages of Peillon and Peille

31 min driving to Peillon | 19.5 km

The charming medieval villages of Peillon and Peille, less than 20 kilometres from Nice, offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and incredible views. 

Both villages are known for their picturesque landscapes, charming old towns, and rich cultural heritage.

Take the steep drive to the old town of Peillon, known for its charming narrow streets, tight clusters of colourful houses, and beautiful fountains. Visit the  Eglise Saint-Sauveur church  at the highest point in the village for magnificent views. The Chapel of the White Penitents (Chapel of Penitents-Blancs) has exquisite 15th-century fresco paintings by Jean Canavesio, and the  Chapelle Saint-Roch  boasts beautiful views.

If you don’t want to drive the 30 minutes between towns, you can hike to the hilltop village of  Peille  along the scenic seven-kilometre, two-hour  Route Napoléon . 

The tiny 12th-century village of Peille is more remote than Peillon but a pleasure to explore. Wander the steep and narrow streets and vaulted passages in the town that further add to the charm. See the 15th century gothic fountain, the thirteenth-century castle ruins, and the beautiful ancient frescos inside the church.

How to Get to Peillon and Peille from Nice

There are public transport services to the towns of Peillon and Peille from Nice, but buses are only on Sundays, and trains involve a decent hike/walk from the stations. Driving is the most efficient way to reach these hilltop villages. 

Driving:  Approx. 30 minutes from central Nice.

43 min driving | 26.5 km

This picturesque medieval village of Biot is known for its glass-blowing workshops and art galleries. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique Biot glass pieces to take home. 

Biot is famous for the Bubble Glass technique created by Éloi Monod in the late 1950s. Monod used the method to transform flaws into assets, intentionally trapping bubbles in the glass to create an aesthetic element. Today, these bubbles are skilfully designed and have made the village of Biot famous worldwide for its hand-blown glass.

People also come to the small fortified medieval village of Biot to explore the winding cobbled lanes of the elevated fort and to visit its renowned museum dedicated to cubist artist Fernand Léger. The town also has several charming restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a leisurely meal.

How to Get to Biot from Nice

• Train:  The regional (TER) and national trains stop at the Biot train station. Take the Envibus line 10 from the station to Biot. The village is 4km uphill from the train station. 
• Bus:  Bus 200 from Nice stops at the Biot train station.

Visit Biot on a Provence Village Tour with Wine and Produce Tasting . Discover the village of Saint-Jeannet and taste local, organic wines. Travel from Nice to Biot, Gourdon, and Tourettes-sur-Loup on a full-day trip to try regional products and local wine and see the 40-meter-high Gorges du Loup waterfall. See here for full tour details .

Best Places to Visit Near Nice Summary

• Monaco 

10+ Charming & Mediterranean-Inspired Day Trips from Nice

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 18th June 2024

Categories France

Last Updated on 18th June 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

When pondering on where to stay on the French Riviera, consider basing yourself in Nice. After all, with excellent transport links, everything along the French Riviera is just a stone’s throw away. Here’s your guide to the very best day trips from Nice !

The glittering Côte d’Azur has attracted tourists for centuries, and not just because of the postcard-perfect towns or the wealth of history. Instead, visitors can also expect to enjoy plenty of sun, an excellent foodie scene, and a plethora of things to do.

Things to know before going on day trips from Nice

#3 èze, #7 saint-paul-de-vence, #9 marseille, #10 gorges du verdon, #11 parasailing on the french riviera, #12 cagnes-sur-mer, #13 villefranche-sur-mer, enjoyed reading about the best day trips from nice pin it now, read it again later:.

If you’re looking to explore the French Riviera then congratulations: you’re about to embark on a trip to one of the most beautiful places in Europe, if not the world.

Nice is a great place from which to base yourself to explore the wider region, with the small principality of Monaco and many of France’s top destinations all within an hour’s travel. If you’re planning to spend time in Nice, be sure to check out our suggestions for how to spend one day in Nice .

Before you go, you should know that while English is widely spoken, it’s only polite to learn a few words of the local language, French. In order to help you get by, I recommend bringing along a simple French Phrasebook like this one .

Otherwise, since Nice is such a popular destination, you’ll want to book your accommodation well in advance so as to secure the best deals. Check the best accommodation prices in Nice here.

Finally, while you can take yourself on self-guided drives and day trips from Nice, it’s always nice to book an excursion so as to see multiple towns and destinations at once, without the stress of having to transfer using train and buses. GetYourGuide has a wide selection of excursions from Nice, though these are some of the best rated;

Best of the French Riviera Full-Day Tour from Nice

Monaco, Monte Carlo and Eze Half-Day Trip

French Riviera Tour: Cannes, Antibes & Saint-Paul de Vence

French Riviera Villages and Countryside Day Trip from Nice

Best day trips from Nice

As the last large town before the Italian border, it should come as no surprise that Menton is a beautiful blend of Italianate meets French-inspired architecture.

Home to quirky delights such as a port filled with colourful houses, several maritime-themed museums, and a cemetery perched high on the hilltop where a Château once stood, there’s no shortage of things to do in this beautiful settlement.

If you visit during February, then you’ll be delighted to discover that Menton hosts an annual lemon festival . This world unique event sees larger than life sized sculptures created from oranges and lemons which can be admired for free and are illuminated at night. There are also ticketed events including a weekly parade.

Nice to Menton:  From Nice, it couldn’t be easier to reach Menton. The best way to reach the Southerly city is to take the train from Nice-Ville station. The journey takes around forty minutes and from Menton station, it’s around a ten-minute walk to reach old town Menton.

Easily one of the most beautiful train rides in Europe, the tracks will take you along the French Riviera coastline and allow for gorgeous views of the glittering sea below.

Book now: Full-Day Italian Market, Menton & La Turbie Tour

Somewhere on the coastline between Nice and Cannes, the charming French resort of Antibes is best-known for its 16th-century Vauban-created fortifications (including the Château Carré) , as well as the glittering Port Vauban area. Other highlights of Antibes include a Picasso Museum and La Garoupe beach.

Nice to Antibes: If you want to get to Antibes, then the easiest way to get there is on the train. The journey takes under fifteen minutes and costs just a few euros each way. I don’t recommend renting a car to reach Antibes as the public transportation between the two towns is great and parking can end up being pretty expensive!

Book now: Best of the French Riviera Full-Day Tour from Nice

Tucked high in the mountaintops, overlooking the glittering sea and still with a charming medieval feel, there’s no doubt that Èze is one of the best day trips from Nice.

Fairytale views combine with ancient streets, with highlights of Eze being the botanical gardens perched at the very top of town, and several stunning chapels hidden amongst the maze of streets. While in the area, be sure to check out the Fragonard Perfume Factory on the fringes of the old town that offers free daily tours.

Nice to Èze: The easiest way (unless you want to climb up an actual mountain!) to get to the medieval hilltop village of Èze is by bus. Costing just €1,50 each way, the number of the bus is the  #82  or  #112. 

Don’t make the same French Riviera travel mistake I did and assume that the train station of ‘Èze’ is one and the same as the medieval town. Èze station is actually that of Èze Sur Mer, a resort town that’s about an hour’s hike away from Èze along the Nietzsche path (Chemin de Nietzsche) .

Book now: From Nice: Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip

There is perhaps nowhere along the French Riviera quite as famous as star-studded Nice. Best-known for its world-famous marina and sandy beaches, other things to do in Cannes include wandering along La Croisette (Canne’s boulevard equivalent to Nice’s Promenade des Anglais), enjoying the sights of the Vieux-Port, and visiting the Musée de la Castre, a museum located within the walls of a former medieval castle.

Nice to Cannes:  From Nice, it couldn’t be easier to reach Cannes. You can either hop on the #200 bus from along the Promenade des Anglais . The trip (like any bus trip in the Nice region and its surrounds) costs just €1,50 per journey.

With this being said, the bus takes longer than the train and, as the train costs just a couple of euro more than the bus, getting a train to Cannes from Nice-Ville station is probably your best bet.

Best-known around the world for being the second smallest country in Europe , this tiny principality is located along a small enclave along the Southern French coastline.

Highlights of Monaco include spying the world-famous Casino de Monte Carlo, enjoying the old town in the streets surrounding the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, and gawking at all of the super yacht’s parked in one of Monaco’s two ports.

Nice to Monaco: A visit to Monaco can easily be combined with a trip to nearby Menton and Èze-Sur-Mer. While the train from Nice-Ville to Monaco station takes around half an hour and costs just a few euro, alternatively you can take the ferry between the two cities for a more unique experience. Book your ferry tickets in advance here.

Book now: Monaco, Monte Carlo and Eze Half-Day Trip

An easy day trip from Nice, Grasse can be found in the hills above Cannes. Often alleged to be the unofficial ‘perfume capital of the world,’ this is one French destination where you’ll discover plenty of perfume-themed attractions like the Musée International de la Parfumerie and the chance to create your own perfume .

Otherwise, meander through the old town, enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine in one of Grasse’s many restaurants, and see the 12th-century Notre Dame De Puy.

If you happen to be visiting Grasse during the month of May, then it’s worth noting that this is rose month and, towards the end of the month, there’s a rose festival that takes place in the town on an annual basis.

Nice to Grasse: The easiest way to reach Grasse as a day trip from Nice is to take the #500 bus. Alternatively, you can take the train to the city.

Both routes pass through Cannes, meaning that you can easily combine a visit to both French destinations. Whereas the train takes around an hour each way, the bus takes about an hour and twenty minutes in each direction.

Book now:  Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon Day tour with wine tasting

Often dubbed the ‘second prettiest village in France,’ Saint-Paul-de-Vence was once a secluded wall city that operated as a semi-state in its own right.

Wander through the pedestrian-only medieval cobbled streets and you’ll soon discover why many impressionist painters were drawn to the picture-perfect destination during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Nice to Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Accessible via only bus or car, there is a direct bus (Bus #400) around once an hour during the day between Nice and Vence, full details of which can be found here .

The bus takes around an hour and offers breathtaking views of the little hilltop towns and villages littered in the mountains surrounding the French Riviera.

Book now: Cannes, Antibes & Saint-Paul de Vence

For those seeking a hidden gem of a hilltop village that’s not quite as famous as the likes of Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Èze, Biot is a must-see. Well-known for its medieval-esque feel and wealth of little boutique shops, some of the best things to do in Biot include seeing the artisanal glass blowing and visiting the museum devoted to Fernand Léger.

Nice to Biot: The journey between Nice and Biot is a little trickier than some of the other day trips from Nice as you’ll need to take a train to Antibes before transferring onto the local Envibus buses. As such, the journey between the two settlements takes over an hour each way.

Though a little further away from the city than some of the other suggestions for day trips from Nice, the ancient port city of Marseille is worthy of a visit on any trip to the South of France.

Inhabited for millennia and once known as  Massalia  and is now the second largest city in France, meaning that there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Highlights of Marseille include mooching around the Vieux-Port, climbing up to Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and enjoying the local seafood!

Nice to Marseille: For the easiest route from Nice to Marseille, you’ll want to catch the train. Journey times are around two and a half hours each way, meaning that you should only really take this Nice day trip if you have a burning desire to see the oldest city in France! Otherwise, the French Riviera offers plenty of other delights that don’t take nearly so long to reach…

Though a little further away from Nice than some of the other day trips listed within this article, the Gorges du Verdon remains one of the most visited places in France, and for good reason.

Home to crystal clear turquoise waters and plenty of water-based activities, the Gorges du Verdon is a canyon carved by the Verdon river.

Nice to Verdon: As with many places in Provence, the easiest way to get from Nice to the Gorges du Verdon is by car. This way, you can be flexible with your schedule and change it if need be.

I wouldn’t recommend visiting by public transportation as there are few useful bus routes and no trains. If you don’t have access to a car, then you may also consider booking a guided tour.

Book now: Nice to Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour

Though not so much of a ‘day trip from Nice’ like the other destinations in this article, if you’re looking to get out of the city and want to enjoy a new perspective of the French Riviera, then this Parasailing on the French Riviera  excursion reaches 50 metres in height and offers stunning views of iconic sights such as the Baie des Anges.

Medieval Haut-de-Cagnes is a perched village, meaning that it presides over the surrounding countryside, is home to an illustrious fortress turned museum, and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding French Riviera landscape. 

The town is actually part of the larger  Cagnes-sur-Mer , a former fishing port turned resort town. Some of the best things to do in Cagnes-sur-Mer include visiting one of the many museums in town (including ones dedicated to Renoir and contemporary jewellery) and wandering the cobbled streets of the medieval town.

Nice to Cagnes-sur-Mer: The easiest way to get between the two towns is to take the train beween Nice Vile train station and Cagnes-sur-Mer.

The train takes around 16 minutes and trains run every half an hour. Once in Cagnes-sur-Mer, there’s a free shuttle bus that departs from close to the tourist office and takes you up to the top of the town.

Villefranche-sur-Mer looks like something straight out of a pastel hued dream. From the moment you step off the train at the town’s chocolate box train station, you’ll discover a delightful assortment of candy coloured houses, all grouped together in a haphazard way around a medieval church and azure-blue port.

If you want to discover all that Villefrance-sur-Mer has to offer, you’ll need to set aside around half a day, and longer if you plan to enter the museums, relax on the beach, and spend a leisurely lunch à la française.

Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer: The easiest way to The easiest way to get to Villefranche-sur-Mer is to take a direct train from Nice-Ville if you’re staying in Nice .

Another option from Nice is to take the #100 from the Old Port of Nice. Tickets cost just a few euros and can be purchased directly from the driver. Just be sure to validate your ticket upon entry to the bus in the machine, otherwise you could be fined as your ticket won’t be seen as valid.

Book now:  1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay

2.5-Hour Scenic Drive by 3-Wheel Vehicle

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Friday 26th of April 2019

Antibes is definitely a spot I want to visit one day!

- Laura || afinnontheloose.com

9 Prettiest Day Trips from Nice, France by Train or Bus

Nice is a popular seaside destination in the beautiful southwest corner of France. The weather is pretty temperate year-round, though the water isn’t warm enough until May to enjoy a dip in the ocean (at least at a pleasant temperature).

I’ve visited Nice twice, and I took the opportunity my second time around to explore the surrounding area, from medieval hilltop villages to a border town in Italy. Here are some of the prettiest day trips I took, all of which are accessible by public transport.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I earn a small commission on any bookings or purchases made through those links. This doesn’t cost you any extra, and it’s a great way to support my blog, if you found this post helpful  🙂

Table of Contents

Transportation around Nice

Before I dive in, I want to share a few important details about transport in the area. All of these day trips can be reached by public transport in under 1 hour, whether by train or by bus.

If you take the bus, each single ticket is 1,50€, but you can make unlimited transfers within 74 minutes. You can also buy a 10 pack of tickets for 10€ at the tram stop machines or Ligne d’Azur boutiques. There is also a day pass for 5€ and a week pass for 15€, which include unlimited rides in that time frame. Keep in mind that these special passes don’t work for Monaco, Menton, or Saint-Paul-de-Vence; for these destinations, you’ll need to buy the single 1,50€ ticket.

If you take the train, all day trips I’ve suggested are on the Nice-Ventimiglia (Ventimille in French) line. You should know that on this line, it’s very common for train staff to check if you have a valid ticket. If you don’t, you could be fined.

You should also know that there are two train stations in Nice: Nice Ville and Nice Riquier. Nice Ville is the main train station, and Nice Riquier is the stop right after. See which station is closer to where you’re staying before booking train tickets.

Finally, if you don’t want to deal with transport yourself, know that there are plenty of day tours that will take you to several towns around the French Riviera for around $100. I’ve included some of the most popular ones below.

Map of Day Trips from Nice, France by Train or Bus

Here’s a map of these day trips so you can plan out your travels more easily and situate where they are in relation to Nice.

Beautiful Day Trips from Nice, France by Public Transport

Here are my favorite day trips from Nice that are easy to access. This list includes seaside towns, hilltop villages, and more.

1. Èze Village

Distance from Nice:  30 minutes by bus.

What to do there:  Èze Village is a hilltop medieval village. It’s home to artisan shops, traditional restaurants, and a  lovely botanical garden  overlooking the Mediterranean. Entrance to the garden ranges from 3,50€-6€; once inside, you’ll find many exotic plants, beautiful viewpoints, and places to just sit and relax.

How to get there:   Bus 82  from Gare Routière Nice Côte d’Azur towards Plateau de la Justice (1,50€ one way). Get off at Plateau de la Justice, which is a short walk from Èze Village. You can also take the train to Èze (~3€ one way) and hike up to the village (4.2km/2.6mi, 50 minutes) via the Nietzsche Path . It’s a pretty steep hike, but has good views along the way—I personally hiked up to the village, and then took a bus back.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this  villa with an ocean view , right in the medieval village. You can also find  several hotels  in the area.

2. Ventimiglia, Italy (Ventimille)

Distance from Nice: 1 hour by train

What to do there: Ventimiglia, Italy is just across the border, and is so close to France that many locals will actually speak French. There’s a Friday outdoor market that draws quite a crowd—there, you can find local food items like pasta, artisan gifts, or inexpensive clothing. You can also walk up to the hilltop old town to get your share of colorful buildings and old architecture.

How to get there: The local French trains have a line with the final stop in Ventimiglia (Ventimille in French). Tickets cost ~9€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this apartment with a beautiful ocean view . You can also find several hotels in the area.

3. Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Distance from Nice: 1 hour by bus

What to do there: Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another quaint medieval hilltop village with independent art galleries, fine jewelry stores, and classic restaurants. It offers lovely views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

How to get there: Take the 400 bus from Parc Phoenix towards Vence and get off at the St. Paul – Village stop. Tickets cost 1,50€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this centrally-located apartment with a swimming pool . You can also find several hotels in the area.

Photos used with permission of Ellie from The Ginger Wanderlust. See her Provence & French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary for more travel ideas! I specifically would recommend the Gorges du Verdon, which you can only access by car from Nice.

Distance from Nice: 40 minutes by train

What to do there:  Menton is seaside town with gorgeous, colorful houses. Lie out by the beach, visit the Serre de la Madone Botanical garden, or pick up some local lemon products (a specialty of the town).

How to get there: Take the train going to Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and get off at the Menton stop. Tickets cost ~6€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this apartment with a terrace, ocean view, and fruit trees in the lush backyard . You can also find several hotels in the area.

5. Monaco and Monte Carlo

Distance from Nice: 30 minutes by train

What to do there:  Monaco is technically its own country and is governed by Prince Albert II. You can view the Prince’s castle from the outside, stroll through the colorful old town, and visit the Oceanographic Museum. The museum was built by Prince Albert I and is home to thousands of species of fish; there’s also a floor showcasing the work of Prince Albert I as a navigator and marine researcher.

While you’re in Monaco, you can also stroll down to the glitzy Monte Carlo neighborhood, featured in many films, and home to high-end shops and a casino. This small country is known for being quite a pricey place, but visiting Monaco on a budget is still quite possible.

How to get there: Take the train towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and get off at the Monaco – Monte Carlo stop. Tickets cost ~4€ one way.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this renovated studio in the heart of Monte Carlo . You can also find several hotels in the area.

6. Villefranche-sur-Mer

Distance from Nice: 10 minutes by train, 20 minutes by bus, or 1 hour walk along the coast from Nice Port

What to do there:  Villfranche-sur-Mer is colorful fishing village home to a beach, waterfront restaurants, and picturesque alleyways. It’s a very calm and residential area, so there’s not a ton to do, but it’s a lovely place to walk around. You can also visit the Citadelle Saint-Elme, an old fort that now houses free art museums (sculptures, modern art, ceramics), and public gardens.

How to get there: Take the train from Nice towards Ventimiglia (Ventimille) and get off at Villefranche-sur-Mer. Tickets cost ~2€ one way. You can also take Bus 100 towards Menton and get off at Léopold II (2,50€ one way). If you want a long, scenic walk, you can also hug the coastline leaving Nice and reach Villefranche-sur-Mer by foot.

Looking for a place to stay?  Check out this charming apartment with a terrace and stunning view of the harbor . You can also find several hotels in the area.

Other Popular Day Trips from Nice, France

There are a handful of other cities that are highly-recommended, but are either harder to get to, or don’t appear to have the same charm of the other day trips (in my opinion). Even so, they might be something that pique your interest.

I’d actually love to visit Grasse at some point, as it’s another beautiful medieval hilltop village. It’s most famous as a hub of perfume-making—you can learn about the history of perfume-making and even create your own scents . The old town features winding streets and colorful buildings.

It is slightly further away from Nice though, as the train takes 1 hour, and the Grasse train station is about 1mi/1.6 km away from the town (and an uphill walk). The fare is also more expensive, at ~11€ one way. The 500 bus takes you directly there though, in 1.5 hours, and costs 1,50€ one way.

Cannes is best-known for its international film festival, held annually in late May. Beyond the festival though, you’ll find upscale shops, a long promenade, and beaches.

This seems to be a place that appeals more to people with loads of money (not me lol), so I didn’t make the visit. It’s still supposed to be a nice town to see, however. You can take the train for ~8€ one-way and get to Cannes in 40 minutes from Nice.

Antibes is another wealthy beach town, but offers some medieval charm. The old town is fortified and said to be maze-like. The town is also a good starting point for coastal hikes, is home to a Picasso museum, and has a vibrant daily market. You can reach the town by train in 20 minutes from Nice, and fares are around 5€ one way.

Where to Stay in Nice, France

If you want to make Nice your starting point for these lovely day trips, I have a few Airbnb suggestions!

Budget: I stayed in this Airbnb for my first trip to Nice, and the host (Olivier) took me hiking and swimming. The second time I went to Nice, he took me skiing. He’s a very involved host, and often offers to pick you up from the airport or train station, and even shares meals with his guests. The apartment isn’t the most aesthetic, but it’s still a perfectly fine place to stay, and Olivier definitely keeps things interesting! He’s very giving, and even gave me a CD when I told him I liked the music.

Moderate:  Here’s a studio in the heart of the city with a terrace. It’s conveniently located near Place Massena, and only a brief walk from restaurants and shops.

Fancy: Hotel Negresco is one of the most iconic sites in Nice—you’ve probably seen an Instagram pic of its beautiful exterior. The hotel is right along the famous Promenade des Anglais and overlooks the beach.

What to Pack for a Trip to France

There are a couple essentials you’ll need for a trip to France, if you’re coming from outside the EU. These links go to Amazon if you’re planning to shop there anyways, but I also want to encourage you to buy from small, local shops, if you can.

• Water shoes —The beaches in the French Riviera are often rocky, and it can be helpful to have something to protect your feet!
• Universal adapter —I used this one during my one-year stay in France, and when I traveled to the UK. There are options with USB or USB C charging ports.
• European SIM card —You can buy SIM cards once in France (I recommend Lycamobile, which is cheap and can be found in many “tabac” or corner shops). But, if you want cell service upon arrival, you’ll need to buy something at home, or at the airport. This SIM card has good reviews, but feel free to shop around as well.

If you have any questions about these trips, feel free to leave a comment or shoot me an email.

For more content related to France:

3 Days in Bordeaux, France French vs. American Culture: 7 Surprising Differences How to Become an English Lecteur in France

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This was the perfect post for me to stumble on this morning. I’ve been finding myself spending a lot of time out on the porch when the sun is shining — I lay down, close my eyes, and let the sun on my skin trick me into believing I’m somewhere far away in Europe. And the lovely destinations you shared in this post are exactly what I picture! Thanks for inspiring some much needed wanderlust in me 🙂

Thanks for visiting, Julie! I could use a good dose of sun and daydreaming of travel, too 🙂

Nice is not somewhere that would have been typically on my list when planning a trip to France. Seeing all these day trips from there, it certainly looks like it could be used as a base for further exploration!

It’s a very trendy destination, but I actually prefer all the surrounding small cities and villages 🙂 That’s why I visited Nice twice – to be able to explore the surrounding area!

Hi! Thanks for this, it’s great. The Airbnb links you left didn’t work for me, they just take me to the Airbnb homepage. Would you be able to let me know which that budget one was? Thanks!

Hi Holly! Thanks for letting me know. I just updated the links. This is the host for the budget option in Nice: https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/97770427

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The 10 Best Day Trips From Nice, France (Beaches, Perfumes, Views & More!)

I recently spent almost two weeks in Nice, France, and during my time in the city I took countless trips from Nice to other destinations along the Côte d’Azur.

Nice was the perfect home base for day trips in this region, as it has excellent train and bus connections to the surrounding towns and cities.  From the glamour of Cannes and Monte Carlo to the medieval charm of Saint-Paul de Vence and Èze, Nice has something for every kind of day-tripper.

Below, I’m recommending ten of my favorite iconic day trips from Nice that you can take by bus or train.  There’s no need to rent a car to take any of these day trips, although if you’re already traveling by car most of the destinations noted below have decent parking structure (Èze and Saint-Paul de Vence are probably the exceptions).

The South of France buzzes with excitement during the summer months, which is when most of these day trip destinations will be busiest.  If you’re visiting in the low season, some of the local shops, restaurants and hotels may be seasonally closed, but on the flip side there will be fewer crowds and a more relaxing atmosphere.

1. Monaco & Monte Carlo

The most iconic day trip from Nice is definitely Monte Carlo in Monaco. While you won’t get a passport stamp when you cross the border from France into this tiny principality, you will feel like you’ve entered an episode of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.

I wrote a complete guide to taking a day trip to Monaco from Nice .   It covers things to do in Monaco, how to schedule your day so that you don’t miss anything, and all of the essential public transportation details.  As long as you get a good start in the morning, you can see the casino, the oceanographic music, the old town and the changing of the guards at the royal palace in a little bit more than half a day.

Monaco is about thirty minutes by train from Nice, while the bus takes just over an hour.  Upon arrival, it’s possible to explore by foot, but since the old town is atop quite a hill I recommend buying a one-day Monaco bus pass to hop all over the town at your convenience.  Keep in mind that Monaco gets extremely busy during the Grand Prix, so if you’re not a fast car fanatic, try to plan your visit at another time!

An easy day trip from Nice is to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.  On a day trip from Nice to Grasse you can visit the region’s famous perfume museums and even mix your own signature scent.

Most day trips to Grasse begin at the International Museum of Perfumery, which takes visitors on a chronological journey through the history of perfume.  Then, consider signing up for a custom perfume-making workshop at one of the local perfumeries, such as Galimard, Fragonard or Molinard. If you don’t have time to blend a custom scent, you can still shop at each house’s boutique for unique fragrance gifts and souvenirs.

Wearing your new, custom perfume, continue exploring some of Grasse’s other musuems, such as the Provence Museum of Costume and Jewelry or the Provence Art and History Museum.  You can also explore the palatial Villa J.H. Fragonard, or visit the nearby fields where raw ingredients like jasmine and lavender are grown.

Grasse is about an hour by bus from Nice, but it’s also connected to Cannes via train.  By car, the trip takes about 45 minutes.

If you’re looking to spend a day at the beach, take a day trip from Nice to Antibes.  This small Riviera city has the perfect combination of calm beaches and streetside activities to keep you occupied.

While Nice’s long beach seems to continue down the coast forever, Antibes has three smaller beaches, each more protected and with calmer waters.  Closest to the train station is Plage de la Gravette, a small, protected cove that is perfect for families with children.  I swam here every morning during my three-day stay in Antibes.

From here, it’s a ten-minute walk out of the historic center of Antibes to reach Plage du Ponteil, a sandy beach with shallow water that is also family-friendly. There are some beach chair rentals here, along with a beach club.

Another five minutes will take you to Plage de la Salis, Antibes’ largest beach. This white-sand beach has an accessible section for travelers with mobility impairments (contact them in advance to confirm availability of services), public washrooms, seasonal lifeguard services and lots of space to spread out.

Of course, there are other things to do in Antibes besides spending the day at the beach. Antibes has a beautiful covered produce market, a noteworthy Picasso museum, and a surprising array of urban art.  Only twenty-five minutes away from Nice by train, it’s a can’t-miss day trip for anyone on the Cote d’Azur.

One of the most charming day trips from Nice takes you to Èze, a fortified medieval town perched high above the Mediterranean Sea.  This small town only requires half a day, so if you’re an efficient sightseer you can combine a day trip to Èze and Monaco in one shot.

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A day trip to Èze offers a little sample of everything you can see and do along the Cote d’Azur.  If you don’t have time to get all the way to Grasse, Èze has two perfume factories (Fragonard and Galimard), both of which offer free tours and (paid) perfume-making workshops.

Èze also offers a taste of the luxury that you can find in nearby Monaco. The restaurant at the Chevre d’Or restaurant has earned two Michelin stars, and the attached hotel, in a former medieval palace, is where celebrities come to escape the crowds during the Cannes film festival.

As you ascend through the narrow medieval streets, don’t miss a quick detour to Le Jardin Exotique, where you’ll find plants typical to the Mediterranean climate and the town’s highest peak (almost 430 meters above sea level) with views of Provence.

Èze is 35 minutes from Nice by direct bus. I recommend choosing the bus over the train, as the train station is at beach level (a steep 45-minute hike beneath the town).

You’re probably familiar with the Cannes Film Festival, which is held annually in May.  However, Cannes isn’t just for Hollywood stars!  In fact, it’s one of the easiest day trips from Nice, thanks to its proximity and compact city center.

If you arrive in Cannes by train, it’s a ten-minute walk to the Vieux Port (Old Port) and the iconic town hall building.  From here, you can follow the waterfront walkway past the Festival and Congress Palace (home to the film festival) and along Boulevard de la Croisette, which is lined with luxury shops, upscale restaurants and posh beach clubs.

On the opposite side of the port, Le Suquet is Cannes’ medieval Old Town. Narrow streets are lined with pretty old houses, and winding streets lead to some of the best views in the region.  Entry to the Musee de la Castre gives you access to the old stone clocktower, where 109 steps take you to a panoramic viewing terrace with stunning views of the city.

The train from Nice to Cannes takes 30-40 minutes, depending on the speed of the train.  There’s also sporadic bus service, but the train is much more frequent and convenient.

6. Villefranche-Sur-Mer

I visited Villefranche-sur-Mer on a half-day trip from Nice.  I had noticed its pretty beach on the train from Nice to Monaco, and thought it would be nice to return for a late afternoon swim one day.

I have to confess that I don’t know much about the history of rock and roll, so I didn’t know that the Rolling Stones had spent a year here in the early 1970s.  However, I learned it very quickly when a local woman accosted me in the street to tell me, repeatedly, that she had partied with the Rolling Stones!  The house where they lived while recording Exile on Main Street is not open to the public, but if you’re interested you can use Google Maps to find it and check out its gates from the sidewalk.

Otherwise, from the train station it’s a pleasant fifteen-minute walk through the historic town center to the beach, which makes a pretty crescent-moon shape beneath the hills.  The water was definitely clean and refreshing, and I liked watching the trains pass by right overhead.  On your way to or from the station, make sure to check out Rue Obscure, an ancient covered alley that inspired one of Jean Cocteau’s famous artworks.

The bus from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer takes less than twenty minutes, but this route is popular so be prepared to have to stand for the duration of the trip.  I think this was the only time I had to stand on an inter-city bus in France (and I had to stand both ways!).

7. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Just a few kilometers down the coast from Villefranche-sur-Mer, the peninsula of Cap Ferrat juts out into the Mediterranean Sea.  Its main village, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and the surrounding areas, are a worthwhile day trip from Nice.

Most people visit Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to tour Villa Ephrussi, the spectacular mansion built by the Baroness de Rothschild in the early 1900s.  Surrounded by nine unique gardens, this villa is now open to the public as a museum that gives you a glimpse into how the wealthy lived during the Belle Epoque.

A quick look at the Sotheby’s website should give you a hint into who calls Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat home (as I’m writing this in one tab, I’m looking at a villa currently selling for €35 million in another tab…).  However, not everything on the cape is pricey!  A beautiful, seven-mile hiking trail circumnavigates the peninsula; budget three to four hours for the journey and try to avoid the mid-day summer sun. For a more relaxing visit, the tiny Plage Paloma beach is considered to be one of the prettiest in the region, and the adjacent beach club is popular with local residents (yes, the ones who own those €35 million villas!). 

The best bus from Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is #15, which leaves from Place Garibaldi and goes right into the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat village.  The trip should take about thirty minutes.

Menton’s city center is just two kilometers from the Italian border, and this underrated French city is one of the prettiest day trips from Nice.

Menton has something to appeal to every type of traveler.  Sheltered, sandy beaches attract both sun worshipers and families traveling with children, while its historic basilica and hilltop cemetery entice history buffs.  More of an art fan?  Jean Cocteau was a lover of Menton, where he decorated the town’s wedding hall and renovated a historic bastion to house his works (since then, the town has also established a proper museum in his honor). If you’re a foodie, don’t leave Menton without trying the town’s famous lemons, which are known for being brighter and juicier than their standard counterparts.

The easiest way to travel from Nice to Menton is by train, which takes about 35 minutes.  From the station, it’s a ten-minute walk to the highlights of the historic center.

9. Ventimiglia

Speaking of Italy, did you know that you can visit Italy on an easy day trip from Nice?  Scratch another country off your map of the world by hopping across the French-Italian border to colorful Ventimiglia.

Ventimiglia is located in Liguria, a region best known for the villages of the Cinque Terre (and, if you’re me, for its pesto!).  Ventimiglia is a charming blend of Ligurian and Provencal influences, with a colorful old town winding its way up the hill and a clean, sandy beach ( Spiaggia delle Calandre ) just west of the town center.

I recommend planning your day trip to Ventimiglia on a Friday, when the town hosts its famous weekly market.   Expect hundreds of vendors selling everything from local food and drink to leather goods and antique furniture.  Believed to be the largest market in all of Italy, it stretches from the bridge past the public gardens and along the waterfront to Via Dante.

The best way to travel to Ventimiglia from Nice is by train, which takes about 50 minutes and costs about €9.  There are typically one or two trains per hour, making this a surprisingly convenient border-crossing day trip!

10. Saint-Paul de Vence

Very few travelers know that one of the prettiest day trips from Nice is to Saint-Paul de Vence, a hilltop medieval town with a rich artistic history.

My guide to taking a day trip from Nice to Saint-Paul de Vence covers exactly what to do in town, from walking the ancient stone ramparts (shown above) to visiting classic and contemporary art galleries.  As I mention in my guide, though, the nicest thing about taking a day trip to Saint-Paul de Vence is just slowing down and enjoying the Provençal small-town life.

If you want to dine in Saint-Paul de Vence’s world-famous Colombe d’Or restaurant, make sure to book your table well in advance.  This restaurant, with its walls adorned with art by Picasso, Matisse, Kandinsky and Chagall, is nearly impossible to get a table at during the high season.

The bus from Nice to Saint-Paul de Vence takes slightly more than one hour, and departs from the Parc Phoenix bus station in Nice.

I spent two months traveling around Paris and the South of France.  Too read all my insider tips, check out my complete France collection .

Still have a question after reading?  Leave a comment below!

Planning a trip to the South of France?  Pin this post for later!

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A first-time guide to Italy

Feb 28, 2024 • 8 min read

One of the best things to do in Italy? Spend time on the water (coast, lake or canal) © Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

With its iconic monuments, timeless landscapes and irresistible food,  Italy is one of Europe’s most alluring destinations. Its historic cities promise thrilling art and architecture at every turn while its varied coastlines and Alpine heights provide a stunning outdoor playground.

In fact, the country is so packed with possibilities that it can seem almost overwhelming. Where should I go? How do I get there? How much will it cost? This planning guide tackles these questions and provides clear practical advice on how to get the most out of your first Italian trip.

When should I go to Italy?

The short answer is anytime. Spring and fall are best for sightseeing , touring and seasonal food. It’s warm without being stifling and nature is in full color. But with the glorious blue-sky weather come crowds and high-season prices in the main cities.

Summer sees cities empty as holidaymakers head to the coast. Prices skyrocket in popular areas, peaking in mid-August when beaches are packed and resorts full. Meanwhile, the festival season swings into gear with high-profile events such as Il Palio di Siena, featuring a wild bareback horse race around Siena 's Piazza del Campo , and Spoleto’s Festival dei Due Mondi , with musicians, artists and actors performing to passionate throngs.

Winter is generally quiet – except in ski resorts – and it can be wet and cold. But low season rates and empty museums make it a decent option for a city break.

How much time do I need to visit Italy?

Realistically, you’ll need at least two or three days in top cities such as Rome , Florence and Venice . That won’t give you enough time to cover everything, but it will allow you to get a feel for the place and explore some of the headline attractions.

If you’re happy to move fast, you could cover Italy’s highlights on a whistle-stop 10-day tour. That would give you a couple of days each in Venice and Florence, a day in Bologna , Pisa and Naples , and three days in Rome. Alternatively, you could focus on a particular area. For example, with a week you could explore southern Tuscany and parts of neighboring Umbria , or cut a swathe through Sicily’s baroque southeast .

Is it easy to get in and around Italy?

Italy is well served by air with flights from across the world. Major airports include Rome Fiumicino (officially Leonardo da Vinci) and Milan Malpensa , the two main intercontinental gateways, Venice Marco Polo , Pisa International (for Florence and Tuscany), Naples International  and Catania (Sicily’s busiest airport). There are also excellent rail and bus links, especially to northern Italy, and ferries to Italian ports from across the Mediterranean.

Once in Italy, you've got transport options . Trains are best between major cities and along the coasts, while buses are better for the mountains and hilly inland areas. For more remote parts you’ll really need your own wheels. Most major cities have decent public transport, though you can often cover their historic centers on foot.

Top things to do in Italy

Tour rome’s greatest hits.

First port of call for many travelers is Rome, Italy’s charismatic capital. You’ll never be able to cover all of its monuments and masterpieces, but there are some you won’t want to miss. The Colosseum and Pantheon are obvious highlights, along with the Roman Forum and Palatino . Then there’s the Vatican where you’ll find St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel (in the Vatican Museums ). And, of course, you’ll want to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure you return to the Eternal City.

For a taste of authentic Roman cuisine, try a slice of pizza from Forno Roscioli or a pasta carbonara at Flavio al Velavevodetto in the Testaccio neighborhood.

Marvel at masterpieces in Florence

One and a half hours north of Rome by train, Florence is the second of Italy’s ‘big three’ (Venice completes the trio). Visitors have been rhapsodizing about the city for centuries and still today it thrills with its Renaissance palazzi (palaces), frescoed churches and artworks such as Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell'Accademia , Botticelli’s Birth of Venus at the Galleria degli Uffizi , and Brunelleschi’s red dome atop the landmark Duomo . Art apart, there are markets and boutiques to explore and Negroni cocktails to be sampled, including at the historic Caffè Rivoire .

With more time, you could add a day-trip to Siena or a tour of the Chianti wine country .

Get lost in Venice’s backstreets

As soon as you set foot in Venice you know it’s special. And confusing. To get your bearings take vaporetto (water bus) No 1 along the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco where you’ll find several landmark sights. Chief among these are the Basilica di San Marco and the Gothic Palazzo Ducale , former residence of the ruling Doge. Elsewhere, you can catch modern art at the world-class Peggy Guggenheim Collection and browse colorful produce at the centuries-old Rialto Market .

To fuel your wanderings, Venice is famous for its cicchetti (bar snacks). A top spot for these is the canal-side Bracaro ae Bricoe bar in the Cannaregio sestiere (neighborhood).

Feast on pizza, art and street life in Naples

With Mt Vesuvius brooding on the horizon, Naples is sprawling, loud, sometimes edgy and often magnificent. Its Dickensian backstreets are a joy to explore and its regal palaces showcase world-class collections of Greco-Roman antiquities and baroque art – check out the Museo Nazionale Archeologico and Cappella Sansevero for a glimpse. Then, of course, there’s the city’s revered pizza, served at historic pizzerias such as Da Michele .

Beyond the city, Pompeii is an easy day trip and the Amalfi Coast is within striking distance via the sunny resort town of Sorrento .

Cruise the Italian Lakes

Ringed by brooding Alpine summits and steep wooded slopes, the Italian Lakes have been a popular holiday spot since ancient times. At Lake Maggiore , you can explore the Isole Borromee with their ornate palaces and lavish gardens, while further east you can go celeb-spotting on Lake Como , cruising around its exquisite villas and villages.

To reach the lakes you’ll often have to pass through Milan , Italy’s northern powerhouse. A day here would be enough to take in some of its signature sights: Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper , the fairy-tale Duomo , the Quadrilatero d’Oro shopping district.

My favorite thing to do in Italy

Italy’s obvious beauty and blockbuster sights abound, but what I love are its simple pleasures: a leisurely lunch in a favorite trattoria, the sight of pine trees towering over Roman ruins, a glass of prosecco on a Venetian canal-side.

I also love wandering around Rome and seeing how its life plays out against a backdrop of ancient monuments and historic palazzi . There’s always something going on and even without trying I usually come across something special, an amazing baroque fountain or a teeming market in a medieval square. The city’s streets really are an experience in themselves. I mean where else can you wait for a tram just yards from where Julius Caesar was stabbed?

How much money do I need for Italy?

Italy isn’t cheap. Accommodation rates vary enormously between places and seasons but prices are universally high in popular destinations. That said, you can still find deals if you book early and avoid peak periods. Sightseeing can also add up with top sites charging top dollar. On the plus side, eating out doesn’t have to cost the earth, especially if you stick to pizza and gelato.

Some average daily costs:

• Double room in an agriturismo (farm stay) €40-80
• B&B room €60-140
• Coffee (standing at a bar) €1.10
• Midrange meal €25-35
• Glass of wine €5-8
• Museum admission €10-20
• Public transport ticket (Rome) €1.50 for 100 minutes unlimited travel (but only one metro ride)
• High-speed train ticket Rome to Florence €55

Frequently asked questions

This is italy, so do i have to dress up all the time.

In a word, no. When sightseeing go for comfort, especially when it comes to shoes – you’ll be walking a lot and cobbled streets can be murder on the feet. Note also that major religious sights often enforce dress codes, so make sure you can cover your shoulders, torso and thighs. For going out in the evening, smart casual is the way to go.

What’s the score with tipping?

Tipping is not strictly necessary in restaurants as most places add servizio (service) to the bill. If they don’t or if you want to leave something, a few euros is fine in pizzerias and trattorias; 5% to 10% in smarter restaurants.

What’s this about not drinking a cappuccino after 11am?

Italy has a whole (unwritten) rule book on the dos and don’ts of drinking. As a foreign visitor you’ll get a pass if you order the wrong drink at the wrong time, but it helps to know that Italians regard cappuccinos as breakfast drinks, call an espresso un caffè , and drink beer with pizza.

What’s the card vs cash situation?

Businesses are legally obliged to accept digital payments but it’s always best to have some cash on you. You probably won’t have any problems but it’s not unheard of for payment machines to be mysteriously broken in smaller bars, shops, museums or restaurants. Major credit cards are widely accepted (Amex less so).

This article was first published May 24, 2019 and updated Feb 28, 2024.

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France · November 13, 2023

The Best Day Trips from Nice: 15 Places to Visit

Nice is the perfect home-base for exploring the Côte d ‘ Azur and other gems along the French Riviera. With an abundance of medieval walled cities, beachside resorts, big cities, and small towns nearby, you will not be stuck for choice! In this guide to the best day trips from Nice, you will find a detailed list of the best places to visit near Nice, how to get there and what to do in the area.

For more detailed guides to each different town near, make sure to check out all my other France travel guides or our 7 Day French Riviera itinerary .

You might like: Get the France Travel Map for all the best spots marked in the French Riviera and beyond.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only promote products and brands I have used and like and that all links are to trusted websites. By buying through these links, you help support me so that I can continue to make detailed guides like this.

Public Transport for day trips from Nice

One of the best things about taking day trips from Nice is that this area of the South of France is very easily explored using public transport. There are lines connecting Nice to most towns and cities along the French Riviera and the surrounding area of Provence.

The Lignes d’Azur Card

If you are travelling around Nice to areas such as Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferratt, you can use the Lignes d’Azur card. These can be bought at different outlets in the Nice area (such as in Port Lympia or the airport). With this card, you can pay for all tram and bus trips in and around Nice for a set cost of €1.70.

You can either purchase a day card, a multiple-day card, a multiple trip card, or individual trips. These cards can then be refuelled at either the outlets or using the Lignes d’Azur app on your phone. During our 7 Day trip to Nice , we purchased a 10 trip card at the airport and found it to be the perfect amount for our time there. From memory, this didn’t save us much money, but it made it much easier not having to worry about purchasing a ticket or recharging our card every time we took a bus or tram.

You can find all the information you need on this page .

The TER Train

When travelling between towns on the French Riviera, taking the TER train is without a doubt the fastest and easiest method of transport. There are several stations in Nice that the train passes – Nice St-Augustin, Nice Ville and Nice Riquier. Nice Ville is the central station and the likely the one you will want to catch the train from. Trains run quite regularly so unless you need to be somewhere at a certain time there is no need to look up a timetable in advance. Tickets for the TER train from Nice can be bought at the station or online here for the same price.

Note: The train can be very busy, especially in the late morning when most people are beginning their day trips from Nice. So, expect there not to be much space or possibility to sit down.

The 15 Best Day Trips from Nice

Visiting the sovereign city-state of Monaco is a great day trip from Nice, located just over 20 minutes away by train. While Monaco might not be on the top of everyone’s’ bucket list, known for its Monte-Carlo casino and as the playground of the rich, you may be surprised by what else it has to offer. To discover a different side of Monaco, make sure to wander up to the old town where pastel-coloured alleyways lead from the Oceanography Museum to the Prince’s Palace. Here you can immerse yourself in the history of Monaco, a strategic natural rock fortress which has been inhabited for over 2,000 years. I recommend reading up on the history of Monaco before you visit.

In the old town, you will find Fisherman’s Garden, the remains of an artillery battalion created by Napoleon. Below, in the Théatre du Fort Antione , is one of the best viewpoints over the city and nearby in Jardins Saint-Martin is a beautiful cactus garden. In the afternoon, head over to the Jardin Exotique de Monaco , the exotic gardens with beautiful views over Monaco and the Mediterranean.

How to get Monaco from Nice

The best way to get to Monaco from Nice is by taking the TER train from Nice Ville to Monaco Monte-Carlo station. This trip takes around 22 minutes, and tickets can either be bought in person at the station or online . A one-way trip costs €4.40.

Grasse is a beautiful hillside town just over 1 hour from Nice. Historically, Grasse was known for its perfume production, earning it the name “the home of perfume”. Today, there are around 30 different factories in Grasse, which several that offer guided tours where you see everything from collecting flowers to distilling the perfumes. This perfume workshop is one of the best. You will also want to visit the Musée International de la Parfumerie (MIP) where you can dive into the history behind the perfume city of Grasse. While in Grasse, don’t miss a wander around the old town, making sure to stop by Grasse Cathedral.

If you want to see some of the beautiful countryside surrounding the town of grasse, you can take a guided tour of the region. This tour picks you up in Nice and takes you to Grasse, Gordon, St Paul, and the beautiful Tourette Sur Loup.

How to get to Grasse from Nice

There is a direct train from Nice to Grasse which takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs €11.40 per person one way. The best place to catch this train is from Nice Ville, the central station. You can buy tickets on the station or book them online . Trains leave around once an hour however you will likely want to leave earlier rather than later to ensure you have time to explore everything there is to do in Grasse.

Menton, the town of lemons, is well known for its beautiful beachfront and precured gardens. A day trip to Menton from Nice here likely means a wander around the historic quarter, a swim in the sea, and a visit to one of the botanical gardens. Don’t miss the vibrant orange stairs at Rampe Saint-Michel/ Escaliers or the intertwining alleyways that connect the old town to Basilique Saint-Michel Archange de Menton. For the best views over the Menton, you will want to wander up to Cemetery of the Old Château ( map ), the graveyard that sits above the old town. For that classic beachfront panorama, head down to the beach and out to Vue Panoramique de Menton ( map ).

How to get to Menton from Nice

The town of Menton has two train stations and the TER train from Nice stops at both.  The first, Menton ( map ), is located a 20-minute walk from the beach, a walk that passes through the new town and historic quarter. The second, Menton Garavan ( map ), is located opposite the harbour and is a 14-minute walk from the beach. I recommend getting off at Menton Station and walking through the city – this way you get to see more than just the historic town.  

Biot is a hilltop town closer to Antibes, known for its tradition of glassblowing and ceramics that dates back thousands of years. This is the best day trip from Nice for authentic village life, being a very much lived in village. Strolling around the old town which was established in the 16 th century, you will notice that the street names reflect the activities that once took place there. While in Biot you will want to visit the Fernand Léger Art Museum , dedicated to the work of this French painter, and one of the glassblowing factories where you can take part in a workshop or guided tour.

How to get to Biot from Nice

To get to Biot, you will need to first get from Nice to Biot Station (Gare SNCF de Biot). This is quite far from the old town, but very easy to reach. You can either catch the TER train which takes 20 minutes and costs €4.50 per person or you can take the Lignes d’Azur bus 200 to Biot Station. From the station, you will want to catch bus 10 to the village. This costs €1,50 and the journey takes around 10 minutes. Find more information about how to get to Biot on this page .

Saint Paul de Vence

Saint Paul de Vence is one of the best day trips from Nice. This medieval hilltop town has so much to offer – A strategic centre of defence turned creative hub for some of France’s most well-known artists. In Saint Paul de Vence you will want to spend at least a few hours wandering around the narrow stone streets, marvelling at the different artists open studios and discovering every little alleyway. Stop for lunch in one of the restaurants with views of the Provincial countryside or play a game of boules down by the city walls.

Make sure to read my Saint Paul de Vence day trip itinerary for more detailed tips!

How to get to Saint Paul de Vence from Nice

To get to Saint Paul de Vence from Nice you will need to catch the TER train to Cagnes-sur-Mer. here, you can take the 655 bus to Vence Village. The bus is not part of the Lignes d’Azur region so you will need to buy a ticket on board. The ticket is €5 one way. These buses only take cash to make sure to bring some spare change.

The medieval hilltop city of Eze is one of the most popular day trips from Nice, and a day trip that you should definitely add to your French Riviera itinerary . Eze today feels much more like a tourist attraction than the similar St Paul de Vence , however, it still has its charm. You will not need more than half a day here, so it is a great day trip done in combination with nearby cities like Menton.

Arriving in Eze, you will want to walk through the old town towards the Exotic Garden which now populates the ruins of the medieval castle that the village once housed. From here, there are amazing views over the village, the surrounding coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. After exploring the village, you can head down the Nietzsche Path which leads from the mountain village to Eze-sur-Mer coastal town. The walk is quite difficult and takes around 45 minutes but is beautiful From Eze-sur-Mer you can take the train onwards to your next day trip stop.

Find the full guide to spending one day in Eze .

How to get to Eze from Nice

To get to Eze Village from Nice, the best way is to take the bus 82 from Nice. The bus passes a few different stops in Nice so it’s best to look up the best connecting route on the Lignes d’Azur website or app. We caught it from Boyer. The trip costs €1.70 and takes around 30 minutes.

Note: This bus gets incredibly crowded so try and take the earlier bus if you can otherwise there’s a chance that you won’t fit on board.

Another option is to take the TER train to Eze-sur-Mer, the seaside village at the foot of the Mountain. From here, you can either take the Nietzsche path up to the village (1 – 1.5 hours of steep climbing) or catch the 83 bus which takes around 15 minutes. Again, this bus can get crowded as there are many people who miss the 82 from Nice.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is one of the bigger cities that you can visit from Nice. A charming city destination home to a beautiful historic centre and multiple art galleries, you won’t be stuck looking for ways to spend the day here. You won’t want to miss strolling down Cours Mirabeau, the lively main street of Aix-en-Provence, or exploring the narrow alleyways of the old town. Aix-en-Provence is famous as the birthplace of Paul Cezanne, renowned French artists. Today, you can visit Atelier de Paul Cezanne , his studio turned museum.

How to get to Aix-en-Provence from Nice

Unfortunately, a day trip from Nice to Aix-en-Provence means a lot of travel time. The best way to get between the two cities is to take the train from Nice to Marseille, and then transfer to Aix-en-Provence. This trip takes around 3 and a half hours one way – so it is possibly worth making this day trip from Nice into a short weekend getaway. Tickets too are more expensive, averaging around €50 per person one way. You can find train times and tickets on this page .

Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon is a river canyon located to the North of Nice. Known for its turquoise-coloured waters contrasted against the steep cliffs and purple/grey mountains. This is a bucket list place for many visiting France, and it can be great to use your time in Nice for a day trip here. When you arrive at the canyon, make sure to stop at Pont du Galetas for the best view over the water. For a swim, head to the beautiful Plage de Chabassole, or hire a pedal-boat or kayak to explore the gorge from the water. If you enjoy hiking, there are a few great trails to explore.

How to get to Gorges du Verdon from Nice

While Gorges du Verdon is slightly further away from Nice than the other day trips on this list, it is certainly possible! One of the best ways to get to Gorges du Verdon from Nice is by taking an organised tour – this way you don’t have to worry about transport and can be sure that you will have enough time to Explore the area. This tour takes you to both Verdon Gorge and the nearby lavender fields.

If you do choose to visit Gorges du Verdon alone then the best way is to rent a car from Nice and drive. The journey from Nice to Verdon Gorge takes around 2.5 hours one way so it does make this quite a long day trip. The positive, however, is that you can choose how to spend more of your time. 

Villefranche-sur-Mer

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a beautiful, small seaside town just 10km from the centre of Nice in the direction of Monaco. Down by the water, you will find a quiet old town with narrow, colourful streets and a picturesque harbour. Head down to one of the harbour-side restaurants for a drink or a bit to eat, looking out over the sky-blue water and small boat harbour. Behind the harbour, in the old town, you will find an intricate network of narrow alleyways with ocean views.

For the best views, either head to the Princess Grace Memorial ( map ) or Point de Vue ( map ). No day trip here is complete without a dip in the sea. You can either head to Plage Villefranche-sur-Mer, Plage des Marinieres, or to the smaller La Darse Beach.

This is my personal favourite place on the Côte d’Azur and the one I would recommend most on anyone’s South of France itinerary . If you don’t want to spend the whole day here, it’s perfectly combined with a day trip from Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferratt or Eze .

How to get to Villefranche-sur-Mer from Nice

While you can also drive there, the best and fasted method to get to Villefranche-sur-Mer is by taking public transport. The first option is the TER train from Nice Ville which takes around 7 minutes and costs €2.10. You can buy tickets at the station or online on this page . Alternatively, you can take the L2 train to Port Lympia and bus number 15 from here. This costs €3.40 in total. The journey is included in the Lignes d’Azur region so you can use your day pass or bus card for the trip.

Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez is one of the most iconic destinations on the French Riviera and there is no doubt about it. Once just a humble fishing village, Saint Tropez today is known for its luxury yachts and glamour. You won’t want to miss wandering around the historic centre, taking a dip at Plages de Saint-Tropez, or taking in the views from Citadelle de Saint-Tropez . While you are here, head down to the nearby village of Port Grimaud, the “Venice” of France, with canals weaving through the village modelled after the style of medieval towns.  

How to get to Saint Tropez from Nice

The best way to get to Saint Tropez from Nice is to take the ferry. This runs from May to October and takes you directly from one city to the other in 2 and a half hours. Find more information here . The ferry leaves Nice at 9 am and arrives in Saint Tropez at 11.30 am, giving you 5 hours to explore the city before departing back to Nice where it arrives at 7pm. While it is possible to take the train and bus to Saint Tropez, the ferry is by far the most convenient method of transport.

Antibes is one of the best day trips you can take from Nice. Located just down the coast, you will find a beautiful old town located in the middle of a walled city Antibes. With a fortress in the distance and some of the most picturesque beaches in the Côte d’Azur there is a great mix of things to see and do. A day trip here and you won’t be struggling to fill time.

In the old town, don’t miss Marché Provençal food market where you will a vast range of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses. For the best view of the city, head to Point de vue pointe de l’Îlette . Spend the afternoon in the Archaeology Museum or Le Fort Carré where you can dive into the town’s past.

There is a myriad of different beaches to visit in Antibes. Just outside the city walls you will Plage de la Gravette or Plage du Ponteil, two simple beaches perfect for a mix of swimming/ exploring. Alternatively, you can head down the coast to Baie des Milliardaires d’Antibes and Petite Plage for something a little special.

How to get to Antibes from Nice

The best way to get from Nice to Antibes is to take the TER train from Nice Ville to Antibes Station. The trip takes 17 – 30 minutes depending on which train you take. You can buy tickets online or at the station. From the station in Antibes, the old town is only a 5-minute walk.

Cannes, known for its iconic film festival, Cannes makes for a great day trip from Nice. Start the day with a walk down Promenade de la Croisette where you will find a 3km boardwalk with beautiful ocean views. This is the location of the Cannes Film Festival, covered with designer boutiques and restaurants. Make sure to visit the historic centre – Le Suquet, a network of narrow streets leading up the hill towards Château de la Castre. Today you will find this medieval castle has been transformed into the Museum of World Explorations.

How to get to Cannes from Nice

The best way to get to Cannes from Nice is to take the TER train from Nice Ville. This journey takes 35 to 40 minutes and costs around €7.90 per person. You can find the timetable on this page . The train station in Cannes is perfectly situated to visit the city and old town.

Iles des Lerins

Iles des Lerins (Lérins Islands) are located just off the shore from Cannes. Just 15 minutes away you will find the island of Sainte Marguerite, home to beautiful natural walking paths and an old military fortress. The other island, Saint Honorat, is home to an old monastery and vineyards, making it the perfect place for a wine tour.

How to get to Iles des Lerins from Nice

To get to the Lérins Islands from Nice, you will first want to take the TER train to Cannes. From here, you can catch one of the ferries that run from the Port of Cannes out to the islands. These take 15 to 20 minutes and run regularly. You can find more information about the ferries on this page .

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferratt is the perfect day trip from Nice, with picturesque beaches, coastal views, harbour side villages, and a manor house to explore. Starting at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferratt harbour, home to many nice waterfront bars and restaurants, you can wander towards Paloma Beach. This is by far one of the best places to swim near Nice, with crystal blue waters, rocky cliffs and a beautiful villa behind you. Make sure to walk the Promenade du cap coastal walk. Here you will find a mix of rugged nature and modern mansions towering down over the cliffs. The walk ends at Passable Beach where you can take a swim, or wander up to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a chic manor house with perfectly manicured themed gardens.

How to get to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferratt from Nice

To get to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferratt you can either take the T2 tram to Port Lympia and then catch bus 15 or take the TER train to Beaulieu-sur-Mer and catch the 15 from here. Either option is quite easy, however the tram and bus option is cheaper and can both be paid for using the Lignes d’Azur regional card.

Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer is a smaller hilltop village located just the other side of Nice Airport. Sometimes overlooked due to the popularity of the other villages on the Côte d’Azur, Cagnes-sur-Mer boasts a unique environment that is worth a visit. A day trip here can be great in combination with somewhere like Saint Paul de Vence, as you will pass through the town on the way.

In Cagnes-sur-Mer you will want to wander up to the historic centre. Here, perched on top of the hill you will find Château-musée Grimaldi, an Italian style residence from the 17 th century which now houses the municipality museum. If you are looking for somewhere nice for dinner, look no further than Restaurant Château Le Cagnard . This beautiful restaurant has a terrace that overlooks the countryside and a retracting roof designed for open-air dining. The food too, is spectacular.

How to get to Cagnes-sur-Mer from Nice

The best way to get to Cagnes-sur-Mer from Nice is to take the TER train from Nice Ville. This is a short trip, only taking around 14 minutes. Find the timetable on this page .

Full Day Tours from Nice

Here are a few great organised day trips from Nice that allow you to see more in one day than you would ever be able to do on your own!

The 15 Best Day trips from Nice

Nice is one of the best locations to take day trips around the French Riviera. From the beaches of Menton and Antibes and the medieval town of Saint Paul to the riches of Monaco, there is something for everyone.  

Spending more time on the French Riviera? Make sure to check out these guides:

• Visiting Nice in October – All You Need to Know
• 7 Day French Riviera Itinerary
• Day Trip to Eze Medieval Village
• Saint Paul de Vence Day Trip Itinerary

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Day Trips from Nice

15 Best Day Trips from Nice

Nice, one of France’s most populous and sprawling cities, is many things to different travelers and locals.

One of southern France’s largest port cities, Nice is found on the warm climes of the Mediterranean coast, in the shadow of the Alps.

Some see this big metropolis as just a transport hub because it is located very conveniently in the center of the French Riviera, making it easy to travel to the many iconic towns and cities that everyone has heard the names of – from Cannes to Monaco.

To many though, Nice’s ideal location makes it the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding provinces and famous locations.

Nice has the perfect mixture of French culture and cuisine that mixes well with influences from the diverse array of nationalities and people that have migrated here from across the Mediterranean over the years.

Let’s have a look at the best day trips from Nice :

You may have only just arrived in Nice – and perhaps even in France itself – but one of the first day trips that has to be made is a trip to the city-state of Monaco, meaning that you may find yourself leaving France as you soon as you land.

Monaco is a small, independent country that’s located east along the coast from Nice.

It’s renowned for the world famous Monaco Grand Prix, held every year on the winding, old streets of the city.

It’s also home to Monte Carlo and the infamous Monte Carlo casino, where gamblers and reckless travelers have risked their money for decades – some winning big and many more losing.

Monaco has a reputation for lavish opulence; it’s a playground for rich Arab Sheiks, Hollywood stars, and western Royalty.

But through all the glitz and glamour of Monaco, it’s an ever-intriguing destination.

It’s a country with its own very unique history.

It’s a culture that is very French, but at the same time peculiarly different, and it’s an excellent day trip from Nice.

Suggested tour : From Nice : 4-Hour Monaco by Night

2. Marseilles

Along the coast from Nice, this time to the west, is Marseilles, the largest city on the southern Mediterranean shoreline of France.

Marseilles, just like Nice and many more large French cities, is a strange mix of opulence and decay, but it’s a place that is always interesting.

Grand hotels overshadow poor urban areas, but in the middle can be found a vibrant, multicultural mix of rich, poor, French and foreign influences that create a unique atmosphere.

Marseilles is one of the oldest cities in France.

It’s a place that has stood on the shores of the Mediterranean since before the days of the Romans; in Marseilles, you will find an incredible wealth of history to explore.

There’s a scenic, sunny harbor and a beautifully historic corniche, while many of the beaches are of the best quality in France.

3. Aix-en-Provence

Away from the coastline, and just north of Marseilles, an excellent day trip to the west of Nice will bring you to the small city of Aix-en-Provence – or Aix, as it is more simply known by the local residents.

Aix is another extremely historic city – with roots founded thousands of years ago – that has developed into the charming, quintessentially French city that you will find today.

Aix is home to one of the oldest Universities in Europe.

A friendly cafe culture that spills onto the streets is just waiting to be enjoyed by visitors.

Cannes is, of course, most famous for the iconic International Film Festival that’s held here annually, when visitors can walk the streets with celebrities and film stars from across the globe.

Cannes is much more than just its film festival though.

The rest of the year it’s still busy – this is the heart of the French Riviera after all, but you can still enjoy the old streets, historic scenes, and spectacular vistas.

There are always hundreds of elegant yachts in the harbor, while the tree-lined, breezy, seafront boulevard is simply beautiful.

Recommended tour : Cote d’Azur Back Country Private Day Tour

5. Ile de Sainte Marguerite

Just off the coast of Cannes is the beautiful, rustic island of Sainte Marguerite.

You can travel here from Cannes or take the fast ferry directly from Nice, with fantastic views of the entirety of the French Riviera along the way.

It’s a small place, with a length of no more than three kilometers at any point.

It’s not just beautiful, it’s a historic place.

Make sure to visit the Fort Royal – one of France’s most famous prisons – because this fortress was used to hold The Man in the Iron Mask.

Toulon is, first and foremost, a French Naval base, and visiting the city will give you a completely different perspective on the French Riviera.

Rather than seeing yachts in the harbor, you will be looking out at warships.

It makes for an interesting escape from the glitz and lavish wealth of much of the rest of the coastline, and in its own strange way makes for a very unique escape from Nice – you can see how the average hard working Frenchman lives in this part of the world.

7. Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is found halfway between Nice and Marseilles and it’s most certainly one of the most iconic names to be heard along the French Riviera.

This was one of the first of France’s south coast cities to really begin to experience the tourism and opulence that you feel keenly today, after it was the setting for a famous Hollywood movie.

Saint-Tropez still retains the ramshackle cobbled streets and vibrant seafront culture that originally drew visitors, and even today, with all the visitors, it’s a fantastic day trip from Nice.

8. Sainte-Maxime

If, however, Saint-Tropez is too busy, bustling and popular for you, then waiting just down the road is Sainte-Maxime.

Like Saint-Tropez, this coastal town is beautiful, historic and charming, but unlike Saint-Tropez, almost no one visits.

It’s very close by, but travelers will pass through with their sights firmly set on the famous Saint-Tropez.

Stop in though, and enjoy the rustic French charm that has been lost elsewhere.

Enjoy the quaint cafes and peaceful seafront restaurants.

Most of all, enjoy the quiet atmosphere.

Antibes is best known for the beautiful beaches that are found around the town.

It’s a favorite place for holidaymakers looking purely for sun, sea, and sand, and there are many resorts here to cater to that demand.

At times, it may feel a little touristy, especially in summer, but when you look out over the spectacular, white sand beaches as the waters of the Mediterranean lap against the shore, you will realize exactly why so many people love to come here.

If you want a great day at the beach, then Antibes is the place to go.

Eze is located to the east of Nice, on the road to Monaco.

It’s a popular stop for those looking to indulge in the long history of the French Riviera.

Eze is a small place, but this village is found perched spectacularly on a hilltop, overlooking the coastline for mile upon mile.

The streets here are preserved as they have been for hundreds of years, and the cathedral and buildings are from a time lost in other areas of the coast.

It looks and feels almost medieval, and it’s a must do day trip from Nice.

Menton is the last big town before you reach the Italian border.

Being along the road beyond Monaco, it’s a part of the French Riviera that is much less famous and low key than Nice and its surrounds.

That means that Menton makes for a refreshing day trip, with an excellent culinary scene that’s a distinct mix of French and Italian flavors and styles.

12. Cagnes-sur-Mer

Across the river to the west of Nice, Cagnes-sur-Mer is a beautiful choice for a day trip.

The small town is picturesque, found on the seafront overlooking the Mediterranean.

Away from the coast is a charming old town, with a medieval feel, and beyond that, forests, hills and the delights of the French countryside are all within easy reach.

Grasse is found inland, about one hour’s drive from Nice, and is known for its long association with perfume.

As well as being a beautiful little place in excellent surroundings, the town has at least three perfume museums and factories that can be toured to learn more about this very French of scents.

14. Peillon

Peillon is where the mountains really begin.

This is the start of the Alps, and a winding, stunning road brings you from Nice, through the hills and into the mountains, where you can find Peillon – just a small village – perched on a clifftop, in spectacular surroundings.

15. Verdon Gorge

If you have seen all the intricacies of the French Riviera and would enjoy traveling inland and away from the coast, then waiting just two hours away from Nice is the absolutely stunning Verdon Gorge.

This is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful natural attractions in the south of France.

A long river cuts through a deep gorge, reaching depths of up to 700 meters in places.

You can hike, kayak and rock climb, making it an adventure seeker’s paradise.

15 Best Day Trips from Nice:

• Aix-en-Provence
• Ile de Sainte Marguerite
• Saint-Tropez
• Sainte-Maxime
• Cagnes-sur-Mer
• Verdon Gorge

The Perfect Monaco Day Trip from Nice

Last Updated on March 6, 2024

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

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Monaco is a principality on the French Riviera near France’s border with Italy, which is why a Monaco day trip from Nice is the perfect excursion. World famous since the marriage of Grace Kelly to the Prince of Monaco Rainier III in 1956, Monaco is the epitome of wealth and riches.

Easily accessed within 20 minutes from Nice , come marvel at the yachts, admire the street fashion and gaze on, or get involved, at the roulette tables of the Monte Carlo Casino. Whether you’re seeing Monaco on a budget or there to splash out, you can’t miss this bite-sized beauty.

Table of Contents

How to Get from Nice to Monaco

There are a few different ways to travel from Nice to Monaco, and each route gives a stunning perspective as you arrive.

By Organised Tour

If you don’t want to travel alone, or just prefer being part of a group, there are a few options of organised tours for a Nice to Monaco day trip.

You can take this full-day tour , where you’ll drive along the windy coastal roads, stop by the historic village of Èze, visit the Fragonard perfume factory and take in the views of Monte Carlo.

Alternatively, you can revel in the glitz and the glamour with this night-time tour from Nice! See the stunning buildings of the belle époque lit up spectacularly, as you drive to Monaco, and see the principality in another light.

If you’re short on time you can also go on a half-day tour to see the highlights but that won’t leave a lot of time to explore on your own. Alternatively, if you’d like your own guide, then consider booking this private day tour from Nice.

One of the best ways to visit Monaco from Nice is by train. You can buy your tickets online or at the central Nice-Ville train station, or Nice-Riquier, slightly further out of the city.

It takes you on a 20-minute journey along the incredible coastline and through the stunning French town of Èze.

The trains are spacious and clean and start from 05.40 every morning, but keep in mind that the last train back from Monaco on weekdays is 21.05, so don’t leave it too late if you intend to get the train back as well. You can view train schedules here .

Note that it is also possible to visit Monaco via direct train from other towns along the French Riviera, such as Cannes and Antibes.

It’s very easy to get to Monaco from Nice by bus and you get the chance to experience the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea from the winding coastal roads as well.

Zou! run regular schedules, beginning early in the morning in the Normandy Square and leaving approximately every 15 minutes. You’ll also need to download the Zou! application to reserve your ticket online.

Since Monaco is all about showing off, what better way to arrive in the super-rich microstate than by boat into the glamorous harbour with yachts on all sides?

You can take a ferry from Nice to Monaco harbour, leaving at 09.30 daily, and returning at 17.00 so you can comfortably spend one day in Monaco exploring the streets or casinos.

The journey takes around 45 minutes and gives you an incredible view of the palace atop of the rocky hill and the sparkling city adjacent. You can book tickets here .

Given the many public transport options, it’s not necessary to rent a car, however, it does of course grant you the freedom to visit at your own leisure.

There are three main roads if you want to drive from Nice to Monaco; the A8 toll road through the hills, the M6007 through Èze, and the M6098 along the coast; each route has spectacular views over the Mediterranean as you arrive in the swanky seaside state.

There’s a 24-hour car park in Place d’Armes, near the palace, so you can easily leave the car and walk into the city rather than struggle to find a parking spot in the narrow streets.

If you need to rent a car for your trip you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices across major companies.

Monaco Day Trip Itinerary

At just 202 hectares, you can see most of what Monaco has to offer in one day as it’s all very close together.

The most striking points of the Monaco skyline, as you arrive by car, train or ferry, are the Prince’s Palace of Monaco (home to the Grimaldi family), the Hercules Port, and the Opera House, and these are, rightly, the most important stops on your visit.

The train station and port are central, so you can easily start at either end of the country. However, it makes sense to start in the old town if Monaco and watch the Palace’s changing of the guard before heading down for lunch near the port and finishing with an evening in the casino.

There are, of course, plenty of museums, activities and things to do in Monaco that you’ll spot as you walk along the streets from stop to stop; just take in the scenery and enjoy! You can also take a historical walking tour if you have travelled here independently.

Le Palais des Princes de Monaco and Monaco-Ville

The first stop on your day trip to Monaco from Nice should undoubtedly be the quaint, colourful streets of Monaco-Ville – also referred to as Le Rocher – perched on top of the large rock to the South.

As you walk up the ramp towards the Prince’s Palace – once a fortress overlooking the city -, you’ll see an impressive gateway, and an even more impressive panoramic view of Monaco, with the Port Hercule front and centre.

At the top, you’ll also have a view of Monaco’s only other Port, Fontvieille, looking south towards the AS Monaco football stadium. The streets in Monaco-Ville are few but pretty, with souvenir shops, cafés, museums and art shops tucked away around corners.

The very informative Museum of Old Monaco is in this district, or you can visit Saint Nicholas Cathedral, or Cathédrale de Monaco. Many of the princes of the almost 800-year Grimaldi reign have been laid to rest in this cathedral, including Prince Rainier III and his wife, Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco.

Entry to the cathedral is free, however, visitors must have their shoulders covered and no shorter than knee-length shorts to enter.

At 11.55 every day, you can see the Palace’s changing of the guard ceremony. A wonderful sight, the guards, head to toe in white perform a slick routine to change shifts, much to the enjoyment of visitors.

You can visit the palace from April to October. You can buy tickets for the palace here , as well as tickets to see the Prince’s car collection and the Oceanographic Museum . Other highlights in the palace include the State Apartments and the Throne Room.

Port Hercule

Walking back down the ramp, Port Hercule is next on your one day in Monaco itinerary. As you walk around the harbour, you’ll pass a race car statue dedicated to Juan Manuel Fangio, the first post-war winner of the Monaco Grand Prix as part of the Formula One World Championship.

This road around the port is part of the world-famous Grand Prix race track, so it’s definitely worth following for F1 fans.

In the city streets of La Condamine district to the left, with the harbour on your right, you can find plenty of eateries for all tastes and budgets, so stop and have lunch in the sunshine, or keep it in mind for the evening.

You can also sit in the Brasserie de Monaco and watch the yachts come and go or try to spot celebrities as sportscars enter and exit the dock. It’s the perfect place for people-watching.

Continuing along the road around Port Hercule, you’ll begin an incline, with beautifully ornate buildings to your left and the incredible yachts of the super-rich to your right.

There is a perfect panoramic view of the port from the observation deck with the Tebe in Costume statue, although the view is so outstanding it’s tempting to take a new photo every few steps.

Follow the road up to reach one of the most lavishly decadent areas you’ll ever see.

Casino and Opera de Monte Carlo

From your previous stop, walk along the Boulevard des Moulins until you reach the Monte Carlo District.

The Monte Carlo district is one of the most opulent areas of Monaco, with the famous Casino standing proud at the head of the Place de Casino and the Opera de Monte Carlo just behind it. Whether you decide to go in them or not, the buildings of this area are beautiful and definitely worth a visit when in Monaco for a day.

Walk along the promenade in front of the 19th-century opera house and enjoy overlooking the sea and ornamental gardens. Within the gardens, there is a small walkway dotted with footballers’ footprints, so you can walk with the stars, from Cristiano Ronaldo to Didier Drogba, to the legendary Diego Maradona.

The opera house has many different cultural events throughout the year, with operas, concerts, choirs and recitals all part of their regular schedule. You can see what’s on here . 

Passing back through the Parc Spélugues, you’ll find the main attraction in Monaco: the Casino de Monte Carlo.

Built with the opera house in the 19th century, this building was influential in creating the rich hub that Monaco is today. All kinds of people come from all over the world to try their chances at the tables in such a famous location, so it’s no wonder that entry can be quite strict.

Walk around the square and marvel at the sports cars that pass through the square, glance over the luxury fashion brands in the windows of the small shopping centre or sit in the Café de Paris and take it all in. There’s plenty to see in the area, so before you head to the opera or the casino, have a good look around.

If you want to go to the casino in the afternoon, the dress code is more relaxed than in the evenings, although you should still dress relatively formally, and trainers or sandals and shorts are generally forbidden.

In the evening, suits and cocktail dresses are the best choices to guarantee entry, however, you can go in the late afternoon before the evening crowd show to make sure you can get in if you’re wearing more casual clothes. Then you can simply sit at a table and try your luck or wander around with your cocktail and see how the other half live!

Have more time?

While it is very small, there is actually plenty to do over one day in Monaco. Whether you have your own car and want to explore the surrounding area further, or simply want to cover every inch of Monaco, there’s a great deal to get your teeth stuck into.

Museums in Monaco

If you’ve decided that Monaco in a day is just not enough, there are a number of brilliant museums in the microstate, covering everything from cars to the oceans, to modern art.

Visit the Francis Bacon Art Museum to get an in-depth look into the troubled painter’s life through his early works and personal belongings

Look in at the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco – Villa Sauber to see a huge collection of contemporary art, or join in with one of their workshops

Head back to the Oceanographic Museum to explore Prince Albert’s collection or see the 6,000 marine creatures in the aquarium

Marvel at the huge collection of vintage cars in the Collection Automobiles de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco in Port Hercule

Sport in Monaco

You could also take a couple of tours to learn more about popular sporting events in Monaco that have a huge cultural significance.

For instance, you could walk the 3.3km Monaco Grand Prix race track with a tour guide to learn about the history of the race. Alternatively, take a guided tour around AS Monaco’s home ground, the huge Stade Louis II.

Near to Monaco, and easily reachable by train and bus, is the small town of Èze. This hilltop destination provides stunning views of the surrounding Provencal area from the Château d’Èze and nearby Jardin Botanique.

It’s home to a Fragonard factory, so once you’ve explored the streets, you can learn about France’s perfume history and take a free, guided tour of the factory to see how their cosmetics come together.

Visit Ventimiglia in Italy

The train from Nice to Monaco actually continues on through Menton, to Ventimiglia, an Italian town on the border with France. So why not take in the Riviera from the Italian perspective, over an Apérol and fresh pasta?

Where to Stay in Nice

Nice Garden Hotel – Located right off the Promenade des Anglais, this 3-star hotel is great for mid-range travellers using Nice as a base. They have a number of lovely rooms available along with an unbeatable location for exploring all this coastal French city has to offer.

Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel – Those looking for a luxury stay in Nice to ensure they’re well-rested will love this high-end hotel. Located in the city centre, there are a number of lovely rooms to choose from and a great location close to Nice’s top attractions.

Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice – Situated in the old town of Nice, these apartments are perfect for those who want their own flat while exploring the French Riviera and Monaco. There are a number of different apartments on offer, all ranging in size, and there is also breakfast available daily.

Hostel Meyerbeer Beach – Budget and solo travellers will love this highly-rated hostel in the centre of Nice. Offering both traditional dorms and private rooms, they also have excellent common areas and good self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nice hotels!

Going on a day trip from Nice to Monaco is a great way to spend your time while exploring the French Riviera. This micro-state has a lot to offer visitors and it’s well worth spending a day exploring it.

Are you looking to visit Monaco? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Northern France Itinerary

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in the Loire Valley Itinerary

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

very informative,sounds lovely ,look to visit in the future

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Conservative media uses misleading camera angle of Biden to falsely claim that he was wandering aimlessly

Conservative media outlets selectively used a camera angle that left out important context to spread a claim Thursday and Friday that President Joe Biden wandered off from a meeting of world leaders, but the full video at another angle captured by NBC News tells a different story.

Instead of wandering off, Biden was walking toward a group of parachutists who had just landed in an Italian clearing and gave them two thumbs-up. 

The deceptive video began spreading online shortly after a photo opportunity at the G7 summit in Puglia, in southern Italy. Biden and other leaders from some of the world’s largest economies stood on a green lawn while people in military uniforms parachuted in carrying oversized flags of the different countries. 

Several cameras, including one from NBC News, were present to document the meeting, where Biden was expected to push for more support for Ukraine in its war against Russia. 

But the cameras captured slightly different angles, and Biden’s critics seized on one of them to push their allegation that Biden, 81, is absent-minded and too old to be president. 

The video is one of many that have circulated widely online in recent weeks attempting to cast relatively normal moments as gaffes or evidence that Biden is suffering from a mental decline. Experts have warned that while advanced technology like generative artificial intelligence can spread misinformation, so-called cheapfakes that often use only minor or selective editing can be more effective at spreading false narratives.

The NBC News video contains nothing to suggest that Biden wandered, a word that often implies aimless walking. Instead, it shows he was walking toward a specific destination: a group of at least three kneeling parachutists. 

Many of the deceptive videos went viral on X, which under owner Elon Musk has transformed into an increasingly influential media outlet in conservative circles — one that’s hostile to the Biden administration and where false stories spread with few checks by the platform. 

The New York Post, controlled by the conservative Murdoch family, posted a video Thursday that appeared to be taken with a phone in the vertical position, meaning that it showed little of what was happening on either side of Biden. The video shows Biden walking about seven steps away from the other leaders, seemingly with no destination, and giving at least one thumb-up to whatever was off-camera. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni follows him, touches his arm and directs Biden’s attention in the opposite direction. 

The New York Post, in text superimposed on the video, said that Biden “appears to wander off” and “has to be pulled back.” Its post on X got 4.2 million videos , according to X’s tally Friday. 

Andrew Bates, the White House senior deputy press secretary, criticized the Post’s reporting. 

“The Murdoch outlets are so desperate to distract from @POTUS’s record that they just lie,” he wrote on X . 

“Here, they use an artificially narrow frame to hide from viewers that he just saw a skydiving demonstration,” he wrote. “He’s saying congratulations to one of the divers and giving a thumbs up.” His post received 2.4 million views. 

A spokesperson for the Post did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday. 

But the claims continued from conservative and Republican accounts, which used the same video or other camera angles with limited context. A post from a Republican National Committee used a video that, although it had a wider angle, still did not show what Biden was walking toward. It received 2.9 million views on X. 

“WHAT IS BIDEN DOING?” the RNC post asked. The RNC did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday. 

A post on X from Clay Travis, a conservative talk radio host, used the same video as the RNC. He wrote that Biden “just goes wandering off” and that other national leaders “are babysitting our president in Italy.” His post received 1.1 million views . In a follow-up post Friday, Travis said he stood by his view that Biden is not mentally fit to be president.

The RNC's and Travis' posts did not have community notes on them Friday, though X users had proposed some and were in the process of voting. 

The NBC News video angle clearly includes what the others did not: the group of kneeling parachutists who were only steps away from Biden. As they’re kneeling, Biden walks toward them, stops and gives them two thumbs-up. At least one of them appears to acknowledge Biden by standing at attention. 

Meloni does pull Biden back to the group as someone appears to begin speaking, but there’s no indication in the NBC News video that Biden was unaware of his surroundings. 

Deceptive videos of Biden have become a common tactic during the 2024 presidential campaign, which features Biden and 78-year-old former President Donald Trump. Last year, conservative pundits used low-quality video to spread a false claim that Biden fell asleep during a memorial for wildfire victims in Hawaii. 

David Ingram covers tech for NBC News.

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