The Easiest Days Trips from Nice, France

Perched on the pebbly shores of the Côte d’Azur, Nice is the sunny city that serves as the gateway to the French Riviera. Its turquoise sea, palm-fringed promenade, and Mediterranean climate have made it a hotspot for travelers looking for a base to enjoy day trips from Nice. 

With influences from Greek settlers and its Italian neighbors, this stretch of Southern France is hard to beat. Nice is the perfect place to settle in for a few days to explore the best of the French Riviera as it’s well-connected by public transport to medieval villages, hilltop towns, and glamorous seaside retreats. 

In this guide, I’ve curated the easiest day trips from Nice that you can reach by train or bus to see more of this idyllic corner of France.

Planning a Trip to Nice? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Nice:

1. Aparthotel AMMI Nice Lafayette, for the best Old Town hotel
2. Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, for the best beachfront hotel
3. Palais Ségurane Boutique Hôtel, for the best boutique hotel
4. L’Abeille – Boutique Apartments, for the best for families

For everything you need to know about visiting Nice, don’t miss my in-depth travel guide to Nice!

Travel Tip: The best way to explore the South of France is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in France is quite easy. Book your car with Discover Cars here.

The Best Day Trips from Nice, France

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Villefranche-sur-Mer

Beach days are best spent in the quiet waters of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Boats bob in the deep natural harbor as families play in the shallow waters by the town’s stunning beaches. A colorful town with a laidback character, there’s also plenty of cultural and historical appeal. Cobbled lanes, bougainvillea-trimmed balconies, and medieval arches also make for some of the prettiest corners on the French Riviera.

Things to Do in Villefranche-sur-Mer

• Wander through the winding streets of the Old Town, where you’ll find quiet plant-filled streets, the Rue Obscure dating back to the 13th century, and the Place de la Paix, a lively square with restaurants.
• Visit the Citadelle Saint-Elme, the 16th-century fortress that overlooks the town, and the brilliant scenery that surrounds Villefranche-sur-Mer. The gardens are lovely and there are several museums inside to explore.
• Unwind at Plage des Marinières, a picturesque beach that curves around the bay. The shallow waters and long beachfront make it perfect for families whether you’re swimming or sunbathing.
• Dine at one of the seafront restaurants along the promenade. Relax to the sound of the sea gently lapping by the harbor at one of the excellent restaurants in Villefranche-sur-Mer, many specializing in seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.

Read my in-depth travel guide to Villefranche-sur-Mer, for everything you need to know to make the most of your time there!

Getting from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer

It takes just 7 minutes by train from Nice Ville train station to Villefranche-sur-Mer. Trains run approximately every 15 minutes between the two towns.

Menton

In pastel shades of yellow and peach, and with wide open beautiful beaches, Menton is affectionately known as the ‘Pearl of France’. Wedged between the Mediterranean Sea and the Maritime Alps, this idyllic town is best known for its lemon production. Just a stone’s throw from the Italian border, Menton is a quieter alternative to Cannes where you can combine great food and a day by the beach.

Things to Do in Menton

• Wander through the Old Town’s narrow streets. Buildings are painted in shades of lemon and orange, with many leading to the Basilique Saint-Michel, an impressive baroque church with a bell tower offering panoramic views of the town and sea.
• Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum, which is dedicated to the work of the renowned French poet, filmmaker, and artist. The museum hosts exhibitions featuring artistic works by Cocteau including ceramics, drawings, and film.
• Take a walk through Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden. This 19th-century garden is filled with tropical and subtropical plants, making it a beautiful setting for a walk and is great for families.
• Relax at Menton’s pebbly beaches. Swim in the azure waters that kiss the town’s coastal fringe, where the sea gently laps at the shoreline. Plage des Sablettes is the most popular and is easy to reach as it’s right by the Old Town.

Read my in-depth travel guide to Menton, for everything you need to know to make the most of your time there!

Getting from Nice to Menton

Take the train approximately 35 minutes from Nice Ville station toward Ventimiglia and disembark the train at Menton, there are no changes required.

Èze

Perched above the sea and overlooking the great blue expanse of the Cote d’Azur, Èze is a charming hilltop village between Nice and Monaco. Best known for its scenic views and medieval stone lanes, Èze is one of the best day trips from Nice due to its artistic appeal and an exotic garden set above the town. Its vine-covered laneways, stone arches, and quaint corners take you back in time as you explore the village.

Things to Do in Èze

• Visit Jardin Exotique d’Eze, a stunning garden set at the highest point in the town. Featuring a collection of cacti, succulents, and Mediterranean plants, there are also numerous statues by Jean-Philippe Richard throughout. You’ll find some of the most spectacular views across the coastline from the garden.
• Check out the many galleries and art studios that are tucked away in quiet squares and along cobbled lanes throughout the village. Èze has long served as inspiration for creatives, with many selling their works from local galleries.
• Visit Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, the 18th-century Baroque church near the entrance of the village. The church features an Egyptian cross in honor of the historic origins of Èze and is a must-see for any history buffs.
• Enjoy the beach at Èze-sur-Mer, the coastal stretch below the town. The beach is quieter than others in the region, although it does involve a bit of a hike down from the town, so pack sturdy shoes.

Read my in-depth travel guide to Èze, for everything you need to know to make the most of your time there!

Getting from Nice to Èze

The best route from Nice to Èze is by bus, taking either the 112 toward Monaco or the 82 toward Plateau de la Justice. The journey takes about 30 minutes as it climbs the hillsides from Nice. The 112 does not operate on Sundays and public holidays. 

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

An idyllic peninsula surrounded by pine forests, beautiful beaches, and home to several exclusive properties, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is the charming neighbor of Villefranche-sur-Mer. A place for seeking serenity and natural beauty, it also boasts one of the most stunning pink villas adding to its postcard-perfect charm. 

Things to Do in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

• Spend time at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. This sensational blush-pink villa built by Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild in the early 20th century features manicured gardens, a collection of antiques and art, and exceptional views from the peninsula.
• Take a walk along one of the scenic coastal paths that the area is well known for. A popular choice is Promenade Maurice Rouvier, which connects Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to the nearby town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
• Spend an afternoon at Paloma Beach, which was named after Pablo Picasso’s daughter. Turquoise waters are set against lush hills, with a selection of private and public areas along the beachfront.

Getting from Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is best reached by bus from Nice. Take the 15 from Promenade du Paillon Gardens, or the 600 towards Monaco from Nice Port. Both buses run every 15-20 minutes daily.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence

One of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera, Saint-Paul-de-Vence has a rich history associated with the arts and offers a great view of the surrounding countryside. Gaining popularity with the artistic community in the 20th century, it attracted famous artists, including Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Yves Montand. 

Things to Do in St-Paul-de-Vence

• Meander through the Old Town, where cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and boutique stores and galleries bring life to the village. The 16th-century ramparts are well preserved and worth walking due to the stunning views across the countryside and even to the Mediterranean Sea.
• Visit the Fondation Maeght, one of France’s most important art museums. Set within a blissful garden, the museum features works by artists including Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall.
• Admire the Collegiate Church of the Conversion of Saint Paul, a magnificent 12th-century Romanesque church with a beautiful Baroque interior. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views.

For more on Saint-Paul-de-Vence, see my guide to the South of France: French Riviera!

Getting from Nice to St-Paul-de-Vence

Take the train from Nice Ville station to Cagnes sur Mer and change to the 655 bus which takes approximately 30 minutes to St-Paul-de-Vence.

Antibes

Antibes is one of the oldest towns on the French Riviera and it’s also one of the easiest day trips from Nice by train. Founded by the Greeks in the 5th century, it has been a hideaway for artists for centuries, with Pablo Picasso leaving his mark on the Old Town during his time here. Between its vibrant art scene, picturesque beaches, and classic Mediterranean charm, it’s not to be missed.

Things to Do in Antibes

• Uncover the best of the Old Town, from the Marché Provençal, where you can pick up local produce, to the Instagram-worthy corners, where paved lanes are filled with greenery and blooms. 
• Don’t miss the Picasso Museum. Housed in the Château Grimaldi, art lovers will adore this space showcasing works from the famous painter, as well as a collection from modern artists against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.
• Go yacht spotting at Port Vauban, where you’ll find a large marina full of some of the most luxurious yachts in the world. While there, take a walk along the waterfront and visit the 16th-century Fort Carré.
• Stroll through Jardins de la Villa Thuret, a peaceful garden full of Mediterranean and exotic plants on the Cap d’Antibes. 

Getting from Nice to Antibes

Take the train from Nice Ville station to Antibes which takes approximately 20 minutes. 

Monaco

Known as the playground of the rich and famous, Monaco is a small yet glamorous principality perched along France’s southern coast. As the second smallest country in the world, you can easily see the best of Monaco in a day trip from Nice. Renowned for its high-end casinos, luxury yachts, and the annual Monaco F1 Grand Prix, this luxurious hotspot offers stunning views of the Mediterranean, historic landmarks, and plenty of modern attractions.

Things to Do in Monaco

• Stop by Monaco’s best-known attraction, the Monte Carlo Casino. Not only for gamblers, the Belle Époque architecture and the lavish interiors make it worth visiting. Built-in 1863, it’s also been featured in several films, including James Bond.
• One of motorsport’s most prestigious events, the Monaco F1 Grand Prix is held here in May. Even if you’re not in town for the race, you can still see some of the toe-curling hairpin turns that the streets of Monaco’s race is known for.
• Wander around Monaco-Ville, the historic heart of Monaco. Narrow streets feature colorful buildings, sea views, and several points of interest, including Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the Oceanographic Museum.
• Explore the Prince’s Palace of Monaco with a guided tour of the State Apartments, which are decorated with detailed frescoes, fine art, and antiques. The changing of the guard takes place outside the palace at 11:55 am daily.

Getting from Nice to Monaco

Take a train from Nice Ville station to Gare de Monaco-Monte Carlo in just 25 minutes. Trains operate every 30 minutes during the day.

Cannes

World famous for the Cannes International Film Festival hosted here annually, this glitzy town on the French Riviera blends old-world charm with luxurious zeal. Dazzling beaches, a collection of luxury hotels, and a vibrant nightlife have drawn those in search of pairing relaxation with entertainment. Once a quiet fishing village, it garnered aristocratic appeal in the 19th century, which transformed it into the glamorous holiday hotspot it is known as today.

Things to Do in Cannes

• Walk along the Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes’ most iconic street along the seafront filled with luxury hotels, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. 
• Take in the views from Le Suquet, Cannes’ Old Town. Explore a maze of narrow lanes and stop by Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance, a 17th-century church with beautiful stained glass windows.
• Unwind at one of Cannes’ beautiful beaches. Plage de la Croisette and Plage du Midi offer golden sand, sunbeds, and beachside restaurants. You can also opt for a private beach club to sip cocktails and elevate your experience.
• Go shopping at Marché Forville, Cannes’ main market near the Old Town. Pick up a few bits for a picnic lunch where stalls sell fresh produce, cheese, seafood, and local delicacies.

Getting from Nice to Cannes

Take a 40-minute train from Nice Ville station to Cannes. This route is three stops past Antibes, so both can be visited in one day.

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