Day Trips from Nice France
Explore the Stunning French Riviera
Nice serves as the perfect base for exploring the stunning French Riviera, with countless destinations within easy reach. After spending months discovering the region’s hidden gems and popular spots, I’m sharing the most rewarding day trips from Nice France that will make your vacation unforgettable.
Menton: Lemon Festival and Italian Influence
Why you should visit?
The last stop before Italy, Menton offers one of the most colorful Nice France excursions. Known for its annual Lemon Festival in February, this town charms visitors year-round with its pastel-colored buildings and botanical gardens. The old town’s steep streets lead to breathtaking views of the coast.
How to Reach?
Menton is about 40 minutes from Nice by train. Trains run frequently, making it an easy and scenic day trip. You can also drive, which takes about 50 minutes.
Best time to Visit?
Antibes: The Historic Port Town
Why you should visit?
Among the most charming day trips from Nice France, Antibes combines history with artistic flair. The old town, enclosed by 16th-century ramparts, houses the Picasso Museum in the former Grimaldi castle. The morning market at Cours Massena bustles with local life, while the Port Vauban showcases some of the world’s most impressive yachts.
How to Reach?
Antibes is just a 20-minute train ride from Nice, with frequent services throughout the day. You can also reach Antibes by car in about 30 minutes.
Best time to Visit?
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Antibes, when the weather is warm, and the town is lively but not overcrowded. The annual Antibes Yacht Show in April is a highlight for those interested in boating and luxury lifestyles.
Eze: Medieval Marvel on a Mountain
Why you should visit?
Perched dramatically on a hilltop, Èze ranks among the most picturesque Nice France excursions. This medieval village offers breathtaking Mediterranean views and narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops. The exotic garden at the top provides spectacular photo opportunities, making it a favorite stop on French Riviera tours.
How to Reach?
You can reach Eze by taking a 20-minute bus ride from Nice. For the more adventurous, hike the Nietzsche Path from Eze-sur-Mer, which takes about 1.5 hours and offers spectacular views along the way.
Best time to Visit?
Eze is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. The village’s higher elevation means it stays cooler than the coast in the summer.
Monaco: The Glamorous Principality
Why you should visit?
The most popular of all Nice France excursions, Monaco dazzles visitors with its luxury and charm. Start your day at the Prince’s Palace, timing your visit to catch the changing of the guard at 11:55 AM. The famous Monte Carlo Casino, with its Belle Époque architecture, offers a glimpse into the principality’s opulent lifestyle.
Don’t miss the Oceanographic Museum, perched dramatically on a cliff, or the exotic gardens offering stunning Mediterranean views. French Riviera tours often combine Monaco with nearby villages, but the principality deserves a full day of exploration.
How to Reach?
Monaco is just 30 minutes from Nice by train, with frequent services throughout the day. Alternatively, you can drive along the scenic coastal road, which takes about 45 minutes. Buses also run regularly between Nice and Monaco.
Best time to Visit?
Spring and early autumn are ideal for visiting Monaco. The weather is warm, the crowds are smaller, and you can fully enjoy the outdoor attractions. If you visit in late May, you can experience the thrill of the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious car races in the world.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence: The Artistic Hilltop Village
Why you should visit?
Art lovers shouldn’t miss this beautiful hilltop village, one of the most enriching day trips from Nice France. The Fondation Maeght showcases impressive modern art, while the village streets themselves feel like an open-air gallery. The famous La Colombe d’Or restaurant still displays artwork traded by artists for meals in the 1920s.
How to Reach?
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is about an hour’s drive from Nice. Buses are also available, but the journey can take longer, so driving is recommended.
Best time to Visit?
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Saint-Paul-de-Vence, with mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer is also lovely, but the village can be crowded with visitors.
Cannes: The Glitz and Glamour of the Film Festival City
Why you should visit?
Famous for its film festival, Cannes offers more than just Hollywood glamour. La Croisette promenade provides perfect people-watching opportunities, while the old quarter of Le Suquet offers authentic charm. Many French Riviera tours include Cannes for its shopping, beaches, and elegant atmosphere.
How to Reach?
Cannes is just a 30-minute train ride from Nice. Trains run frequently, making it an easy and convenient day trip. Driving along the coastal road will take about 40 minutes.
Best time to Visit?
Late spring, especially during the Cannes Film Festival in May, is an exciting time to visit if you want to experience the city at its most glamorous. However, early autumn is also a good time, with warm weather and fewer crowds.
Villefranche-sur-Mer: Coastal Charm
Why you should visit?
One of the easiest day trips from Nice France, this fishing village offers a more laid-back coastal experience. The deep natural harbor, colorful facades, and sandy beach make it perfect for a relaxing day trip. Don’t miss the 16th-century Citadel or the charming Rue Obscure.
How to Reach?
Villefranche-sur-Mer is just a 10-minute train ride from Nice, making it one of the easiest and quickest day trips. You can also reach the town by bus or a short drive along the coast.
Best time to Visit?
Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit Villefranche-sur-Mer, with warm weather and fewer tourists. Summer is also beautiful, but the town can be crowded.
Grand Canyon du Verdon: Beautiful River Canyon
Why you should visit?
The Grand Canyon du Verdon, known as the “Gorges du Verdon” is a true paradise for those who appreciate the great outdoors. The contrast between the deep green of the surrounding forests, the limestone cliffs, and the vibrant turquoise of the Verdon River creates a scene that is simply breathtaking.
How to Reach?
The Grand Canyon du Verdon is located about 2 to 2.5 hours from Nice, making it one of the easiest and quickest day trips. You can also reach the town by car, public transport, or a guided tours.
Best time to Visit?
The best time to visit the Grand Canyon du Verdon is between late spring and early autumn, from May to October, as the temperatures are perfect for water activities, and all facilities in the area are open.
Things To Do In Nice France
Nice’s sun-soaked beaches, charming old town, and stunning coastal views await you on the French Riviera; It doesn’t matter if you’re a culture junkie or a beach hopper, this blog will show you all the places to go in Nice that will make your trip truly memorable. Check out these hidden gems and iconic landmarks to make your trip to the French Riviera unforgettable.
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Though the castle no longer stands, Castle Hill provides the most stunning panoramic views of Nice’s coastline and old town. It’s among the most photographed attractions in Nice France, especially at sunset. The artificial waterfall and shaded park areas make it a perfect escape from the bustling city below.
Marc Chagall National Museum
This museum houses the largest public collection of Chagall’s work. The biblical-themed paintings and stained glass windows create an almost spiritual atmosphere. The peaceful gardens provide a perfect spot for reflection after viewing the artwork.
Vieux Nice
(Old Town)
Nice Old Town remains the cultural soul of the city. Its narrow winding streets reveal colorful buildings, local boutiques, and authentic restaurants. The atmosphere here transports you back centuries, with every corner offering a new discovery. Don’t miss the famous Cours Salet market, where local vendors sell fresh produce and flowers every morning except Mondays.