Planning a trip to the French Riviera and thinking of making Nice your home base? You’ve made an excellent choice. After living in France for two years and traveling extensively around the country, I can confidently say that Nice offers the perfect combination of charm, accessibility, and convenience!
Not only does it have plenty of accommodation and dining options, but it’s also one of the best-connected cities on the Côte d’Azur—making it an ideal base for your French Riviera itinerary.
In this guide, I’m sharing the most worthwhile day trips from Nice, all of which are accessible by public transportation.
Whether you’re craving a luxurious escape, a quiet medieval village, or a laid-back beach town, you’ll find a complete list for all interests—including how to get there, why it’s worth the trip, and local tips based on firsthand experience. This list is designed to help you make the most of your time in the French Riviera—without needing to rent a car or waste time figuring out logistics.
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Day trips from Nice: Overview
DON’T FORGET: Get the right travel medical insurance before your trip – you never know when you might need it. SafetyWing is affordable, user-friendly, and has been my go-to for years!
TL;DR – Quick Tips for First Time Visitors:
🚂 How to book train tickets: Always book your train tickets with Omio to find the best options
🗺️ Top Nice day trips: Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, Menton, and Monaco
✨ Other popular day trips: Saint Paul de Vence, Antibes, and Cannes
🏨 Find affordable, central places to stay in Nice
📍Save time: use my 3 days in Nice itinerary to plan the perfect trip
💸 Save money: use a travel-friendly credit card like Wise to hold multiple currencies on one card
Where to stay in Nice
Hostel Ozz ($): A stylish, modern hostel with a coffee shop, a game room, and a great social atmosphere. Ideal for solo and budget travelers!
Hotel de France ($$): Awarded Traveller’s Choice 2023, this boutique hotel has a charming, newly renovated design and a great central location near Promenade des Anglais.
Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mediterranee ($$$): A 5-star hotel with a pool, private beach access, gym, and rooftop lounge. A fantastic choice for those looking for a high-end Riviera experience.
Best day trips from Nice
Closest to Nice: Villefranche-sur-Mer
📍Distance: 10-minute train ride from Nice
🗺️ Getting to the city center: It’s roughly a 10-minute walk from the Villefranche-sur-Mer train station to the Old Town
⏰ How long do you need: A half-day is enough time to explore or extend your visit with time at the beach
✨ Known for: Colorful harbor, peaceful vibe, historic citadel
Nestled between Nice and Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a postcard-perfect fishing village that feels worlds away from the bustle of Nice. Known for its pastel-colored buildings, picturesque bay, and slower pace, it’s one of the most charming and underrated spots on the Riviera.
As a travel planner, I often recommend this as a half-day trip, especially for those looking to soak in the Riviera charm without dealing with tourist crowds. This is what we did and we loved it so much we decided to come back for dinner another evening – it was one of my favorites!
In just a couple of hours, you can walk the old streets, stroll along the waterfront, and visit the impressive 16th-century Citadel Saint-Elme—which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and houses small museums and art exhibits (often free!).
Top things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer
🌊 Walk the waterfront promenade: Admire the colorful buildings and enjoy the quiet, breathtaking views of the coastline.
🏰 Visit Citadel Saint-Elme: Sea views, historic walls, and hidden art galleries
🏖️ Swim or relax at Plage des Marinières: one of the only sandy, scenic public beaches in the French Riviera
🐠 Dine by the water: Lou Bantry was great for fresh seafood and sunset views
👩🏼🎨 Hidden cultural gem: stop into the small chapel painted by Jean Cocteau
PRO TIP: Villefranche-sur-Mer is a great alternative to Nice as a place to stay in the French Riviera for those looking for a more quiet, and authentic experience.
Most popular: Monaco
📍 Distance: 20-minute train ride from Nice
🗺️ Getting to the city center: 12 minutes to Monte Carlo Casino; 20 minutes to the Prince’s Palace
⏰ How long do you need: A full day will give you time to explore Monte Carlo and Monaco City.
✨ Known for: Glitz, glamour, Formula 1, and royal history
Although Monaco is technically its own country, it’s one of the most convenient and iconic day trips from Nice by train. The journey is short, scenic, and delivers you straight into one of the most luxurious destinations in Europe.
Famous for the Monte Carlo Casino, luxury yachts, and celebrity sightings, Monaco is a prime place to see the opulence of the Côte d’Azur. But beyond the glamour, there’s history and charm to discover in Monaco-Ville, the old town perched on a cliff above the sea.
You should expect your day trip to Monaco to be the busiest, most crowded spot on this list. Being one of the most popular day trips from Nice, our train was so crowded people barely had room to stand. The crowds didn’t ruin our experience, but it is something to be aware of when travel planning.
Top things to do in Monaco
🎰 Visit the Monte Carlo Casino: One of the most popular buildings in Monaco! Be sure to check out my Nice itinerary for more details about visiting the Monte Carlo Casino – you don’t want to be refused entry!
⛰️ Monaco-Ville: Climb up to the Old Town of Monaco to see the Palais Princier (Palace of the Prince of Monaco), the tiny historic streets, and the most incredible views overlooking the city!
🌊 Oceanographic Museum: perfect for families or marine life lovers with extra time to spend in Monaco. Book your tickets here!
🏎️ F1 Grand Prix circuit: Walk along the streets that are transformed for the Grand Prix! Check out this Formula 1 walking tour if you’re interested!
🛥️ Port Hercule: Admire the luxury yachts in the Hercule Port. Being one of the only deep-water ports in the French Riviera, you will see some of the largest most glamorous yachts in all of the riviera!
PRO TIP: Although Monaco is a separate country that isn’t part of the EU, you do not need to worry about customs or additional visas when entering Monaco.
My personal favorite: Menton
📍 Distance: 35–40 minute train ride from Nice
🗺️ Getting to the city center: About 10 minutes to the seaside promenade
⏰ How long do you need: With travel time, plan to spend most of the day here
✨ Known for: Italian influence, lemon groves, colorful old town
Menton was my personal favorite day trip from Nice. Located near the French-Italian border, it offers a mix of French Riviera charm and Italian flair. Known as the “Pearl of France,” it’s also famous for its citrus—particularly lemons—which are celebrated each February during the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival).
The slower pace and warm-colored houses make Menton a peaceful hideaway that feels authentic and unique. What makes it extra special is the merging of French and Italian cultures. If you’re a foodie, you’ll especially love the Italian-inspired menus at local restaurants and the artisanal lemon-themed shops.
It’s one of the further day trips from Nice, so it’s often overlooked or skipped, but let me reassure you, its worth the trek!
Top things to do in Menton
🏖️ BEST views: You need to admire the city’s skyline from a distance – the Vieux Port or the promenade along the Plage des Sablettes offer the best views!
🍋 Shop for lemon products: This is a fun, quirky souvenir to take home. I personally recommend La Maison du Citron or Maison Bremond 1830 for local products! You can also take a food tour or visit a citrus farm to really get into the local specialties!
🛍️Walk Rue Saint-Michel: The pedestrian main street lined with boutiques and cafés – more souvenirs to check out and local delicacies to try!
⛪️ Visit Basilique Saint-Michel Archange: for views overlooking the town and the bay. Climb the Rampe Saint-Michel staircase for Instagram-worthy photos
🪴 Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh: Quiet and peaceful botanical gardens
Film Festival fame: Cannes
📍Distance: 25–40 minute train ride from Nice
🗺️ Getting to the city center: About a 10-15 minute walk to the Old Town
⏰ How long do you need: Depending on the activities you want to do, you can spend either a half or full day here
✨ Known for: Film festival buzz, historic old quarter, sandy beaches
Yes, Cannes is best known for its annual Film Festival, but there’s much more to it than red carpets. This stylish city combines glitz with heritage and is home to one of the few sandy beaches along the Riviera.
After checking out the Palais des Festivals, make your way to Le Suquet, Cannes’ old town. It offers panoramic views from the hilltop and feels worlds away from the designer shops lining La Croisette. Cannes is also a great stop for market shopping or hopping on a boat to the Lérins Islands (a lesser-known but excellent excursion!).
Top things to do in Cannes
🛍️ La Croisette promenade: For upscale shops and seaside views
📸 Take a photo on the red carpet: Visit the Palais des Festivals for the full red carpet experience
⛪️ Visit Le Suquet: Don’t skip the old town of Cannes and pop in to see the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance
🏖️ Relax on Plage de la Croisette: There are both public and private sandy beach options
🍓 Explore Marché Forville: The traditional Provençal market is open every day from 7 am to 1 pm
🛳️ Take a ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite: See Fort Royal and nature trails only a 15 minute ferry ride away
✨ Take a perfume-making class: If you don’t have time to visit Grasse, the official perfume capital in the world, take a perfume-making workshop in Cannes for a unique experience!
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Medieval village: Èze
📍 Distance: 30–45 minutes by bus from Nice
🗺️ How to get there: Take Bus #602 from the Vauban GR bus terminal in Nice and get off at “Èze Village” (not Èze-sur-Mer!).
⏰ How long do you need: We spent close to three hours here
✨ Known for: Hilltop medieval village with stunning coastal views
Èze is one of the most magical spots along the French Riviera—perched high above the sea with spectacular views, stone archways, and adorable cobbled streets that feel like stepping into a fairytale. It was once the French Riviera’s best-kept secret, but thanks to social media and guidebooks, it’s grown in popularity.
Because Èze is quite compact and the streets are naturally narrow, it can feel crowded quickly—especially in the middle of the day. If you want to experience its charm in peace without the crowds, I highly recommend arriving early or even staying the night if your schedule allows it.
PRO TIP: The Èze-sur-Mer train station is roughly an hour’s walk uphill from the village. Take the bus or Uber from Nice, or take the bus directly from the Èze train station to save time.
Top things to do in Èze
🌵 MUST-SEE: Visit the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique) for panoramic views of the coast
🍽️ Food with a view: Grab a coffee or lunch with a view at Château Eza (luxury dining with insane views)
⛪️ Stop at the Eglise Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption: The village’s 18th-century church
⛰️ Hike back to the train station: If time allows, the hike to/from the train station is beautiful. I’d recommend taking public transit to the village and hiking back down to avoid the uphill walk (especially in the summer)
Alternative to Èze: Saint Paul de Vence
📍Distance: 1–1.5 hours from Nice (bus or combo of train + bus)
🗺️ How to get there: Take Bus #400 from Parc Phoenix – here is the timetable for the bus! Or train to Cagnes-sur-Mer + Bus #400 from there (faster option)
⏰ How long do you need: This small town only needs a half-day visit
✨ Known for: Art galleries, ramparts, and a quieter medieval vibe
If you love the sound of Èze but prefer something more peaceful, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a fantastic alternative. It’s a beautifully preserved hilltop village that’s less crowded, but just as charming—with a rich artistic history. In fact, it’s long been a favorite of artists like Chagall and Matisse.
This village is one of the less common day trips from Nice but is a great way to slow down and enjoy the real south of France without the glitz of the coast.
Top things to do in Saint Paul de Vence
🏰 Explore the medieval walls: Walk the ramparts for scenic views
🖼️ Visit the Fondation Maeght: a modern art museum set in a gorgeous sculpture garden
🍽️ Food with a view: Enjoy dinner with a view at one of the hilltop restaurants – check out some options here!
🛍️ Pop into boutique shops: Shop around for local Provençal crafts, wine, and lavender goods
Most authentic: Antibes
📍 Distance: 15–25 minute train ride from Nice
🗺️ Getting to the city center: A 15-minute walk from Antibes Train Station to the Old Town
⏰ How long do you need: I’d plan a full-day visit depending on the activities you want to do
✨ Known for: Local markets, history, and a laid-back atmosphere
Antibes is often overlooked in favor of fancier destinations, but that’s part of its charm. Compared to other day trips from Nice, this one actually is reminiscent of the old way of life! This old fishing port still has an authentic feel that stands out from the Riviera’s luxury. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy a slower pace, and soak up the traditional French coastal lifestyle.
Top things to do in Antibes
🍓 Visit the market: Stroll through the Old Town and visit the Marché Provençal for fresh local food
🖼️ Tour the Picasso Museum: This art museum is housed in the Château Grimaldi where Picasso once worked
🌊 Walk the scenic Cap d’Antibes coastal trail: For a nature walk with beautiful views – here is a map of the trail.
🏰 Explore Fort Carré: A 16th-century military fortress
Best nightlife: Saint Tropez
📍 Distance: 2.5-hour ferry ride (each way)
⛴️ How to get there: The seasonal ferry from Nice Port (May–October), departs at 9 am and returns at 7 pm. You can find more information here!
⏰ How long do you need: Since it’s quite a trek to get here, I’d spend at least a full day
✨ Known for: Celeb-spotting, glamorous nightlife, and upscale beach clubs
What started as a small, humble fishing village, Saint Tropez now has become a world-renowned luxurious, exclusive beach destination! Perfect for nightlife and fashion lovers.
That said, it’s not the easiest day trip due to its location. The ferry is scenic but time-consuming, and buses or driving can be tricky due to traffic. If you’re set on visiting, I recommend staying overnight or making a full day of it.
Why we skipped it: On our trip, we opted for Monaco instead—to us, it offered the same experience as Saint Tropez but was closer and more convenient.
Top things to do in Saint-Tropez
🏰 Visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez: Similar to other historic buildings in the French Riviera, you come here for the sweeping views.
🍓 Pop into the market: Shop at the Place des Lices market, open Tuesdays & Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm
🏖️ Relax on the beaches: Plage de la Ponche is a hidden gem worth checking out
💃🏼 Nightlife: Dine at a beach club or sip cocktails near the marina
Tips for visiting Nice
💜 Save Provence for its own trip! I’ve noticed that sometimes the terms “Provence” and the “French Riviera” are interchangeable. Although they are both part of the same region in France, they are very different experiences. In Provence, you’ll find charming hilltop villages, lavender and rural areas while the Riviera is coastal and a bit more luxurious. Both are beautiful and I love them for different reasons! But to get the most out of your time, focus on one or the other (unless you have more time of course!)
☀️ Shoulder season is a great time to visit: The best time to visit Nice is late spring or early fall. We visited Nice in the spring and not only was the weather perfectly comfortable, but it wasn’t as crowded as I would expect it to be in the summer months. Of course, part of the French Riviera’s charm is its beaches and summer vibes so it makes sense why it is a popular summer destination. But if you want to avoid the crowds, late spring and early fall are great alternatives.
📆 Plan at least 4-5 full days to visit the Riviera. If you really want to have time to take some day trips from Nice, explore different towns, and get to know this region of France, give yourself enough time. You can easily spend 4-5 days here. I always recommend at least 1 day to get to know Nice and then give yourself a couple of days for day trips to visit other towns in France. Most of the towns I include on this list are super small so you can do most as a half-day trip! If you need help with your itinerary, check out my travel planning services!
SHORT ON TIME: Nice Itinerary: 3 Perfect Days in the French Riviera
Which stop are you going to first?
By now you have PLENTY of day trips from Nice that will take you all across this picturesque corner of France. With so many unique day trips from Nice, the tough part is deciding which day trip to take. I’ve put together a 3 day Nice itinerary that features a handful of these amazing day trips – feel free to use it for your own travel planning!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options or want help planning a stress-free trip, I’m here to help! I’ve lived in France, and traveled extensively around the country, and now offer custom travel planning services to help you craft the perfect itinerary. Whether you’re looking for destination advice, personalized recommendations, or a fully customized itinerary, you can learn more about how I can help here. Let’s make your trip to France unforgettable!
