French riviera, Nice
Day Trip From French Riviera, Nice
Experience the allure of the French Riviera on a journey filled with sun-soaked beaches charming coastal towns and breathtaking landscapes. Each destination offers its own unique flavour of luxury and relaxation. Indulge in delectable cuisine, explore ancient ruins or simply bask in the Mediterranean sun, French Riviera promises unforgettable moments of bliss and enchantment.
Menton: The Pearl of France
Why you should visit?
Menton, known as the “Pearl of France,” is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful gardens, and the Lemon Festival held every February. The town has a distinctly Italian feel, with narrow streets, vibrant markets, and stunning beaches. Menton’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination, but it’s especially charming in spring when the gardens are in full bloom.
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?
Antibes is known for its historic old town, vibrant markets, and stunning marina filled with luxury yachts. The Picasso Museum, housed in a medieval castle, is a must-see for art lovers. The town’s ramparts offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean, and the sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing.
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: The Medieval Hilltop Village
Why you should visit?
Eze is a medieval village perched high on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the French Riviera. The village’s narrow cobblestone streets are lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cafés. Don’t miss the Exotic Garden, which is filled with cacti and succulents and offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Eze is also home to the famous Fragonard Perfume Factory, where you can learn about the art of perfume-making.
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?
Monaco is synonymous with luxury, glamour, and world-class entertainment. Whether you want to visit the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, stroll through the lush gardens of the Prince’s Palace, or watch the yachts in the harbor, Monaco is a place where you can immerse yourself in opulence and charm. The Old Town, known as Le Rocher, offers a quieter, historical experience with narrow streets and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
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?
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a picturesque hilltop village known for its art galleries, charming streets, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The village has long been a haven for artists, and you can visit the Fondation Maeght, a museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The village’s historic atmosphere and beautiful setting make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the coast.
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?
Cannes is world-famous for its annual film festival, but there’s much more to see and do. Stroll along La Croisette, the glamorous seafront promenade, visit the old town of Le Suquet for stunning views, and relax on the sandy beaches. Cannes is also a great place for shopping, with high-end boutiques lining the streets.
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: The Seaside Gem
Why you should visit?
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque seaside town with a charming old town, beautiful harbor, and sandy beaches. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely day of exploring, dining, and relaxing by the sea. The town’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning views make it a great escape from the busier Nice.
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.
Must-Visit Places in French Riviera, Nice
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.
Matisse Museum
Showcases works by Henri Matisse, providing insight into his connection with Nice.
Castle Hill
(Colline du Château)
Climb up or take the lift to Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and the coastline. The park also has ruins, a waterfall, and lush greenery to explore.
Vieux Nice
(Old Town)
Wander through the maze of narrow, winding streets of Nice’s historic quarter, filled with colorful buildings, local boutiques, and traditional markets like the Cours Saleya.