Nice, France, nestled along the French Riviera, beckons travelers with its Mediterranean charm. Its azure waters, pebbled beaches, and vibrant Old Town create an idyllic backdrop. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais for stunning sea views. Explore the historic alleyways, bustling with markets, cafes, and boutiques. Indulge in Provençal cuisine at local bistros. For accommodations, choose from a range of stunning hotels offering panoramic vistas of the coast. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle by opting for Airbnb vacation rentals scattered throughout the city. Nice’s blend of cultural richness and natural beauty promises an unforgettable getaway, whether you seek relaxation or exploration. For your France itinerary, check out this list of the best day trips from Nice, France!
East of Nice
1. Enjoy a full-day tour of the French Riviera
If a visit to the French Riviera is on your bucket list, join the French Riviera Panorama Full Day Tour from Nice. Revel in the splendor of Monaco’s luxurious allure, wander through the charming streets of Eze, and behold the scenic beauty of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Bask in the glitz of Cannes and immerse yourself in Antibes’ coastal charm, all in one unforgettable day.
With seamless transportation and insightful commentary, this tour unveils the Riviera’s finest gems, making sure that you get to fully cherish the essence of this captivating region.
French Riviera Panorama Full Day Tour from Nice, France - Klook
2. Hike to Villefranche-sur-Mer
A mere 22-minute drive away from Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer is the nearest recommended day-trip idea. It is even possible to walk there from Nice! The hike takes about an hour and is perfect for a slow day. Although most would usually drive there, it’s not uncommon to find some people taking the stroll. Within Villefranche-sur-Mer, you can admire the 16th-century Citadelle Saint-Elme. Its architecture alone makes it worthy of a visit. Another noteworthy structure is Fort du Mont Alban. Hike up to the fort and take a picnic basket along with some wine. You’ll find places to have a picnic along the way and the medieval military fortress offers spectacular views. Many residents from Nice also visit Villefranche-sur-Mer for its pebble beach; the pebbles here are smoother and more comfortable to lie on than Nice’s rocks.
Tip from Content Creator
Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the prettiest cities in the French Riviera! I visited Villefranche a few years ago to attend a wedding and fell in love with this charming, colorful city located on the Cote d'Azur. While you can easily take a day trip here from Nice, I recommend staying a few nights if you wish to explore the area at a slow pace.
You can wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic old town, swim in the warm Mediterranean waters and relax on the beach. Don't forget to enjoy fresh French cuisine along the water and take day trips to Menton and Eze.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
3. Drive to the hilltop village of Èze
The village of Èze is a 29-minute drive from Nice, taking you on a scenic drive along the Moyenne Corniche. Èze is one of those places to appreciate by wandering the streets with no particular agenda in mind. Take a stroll along the streets with an ice cream in hand and just watch as people go about their daily lives. Alleyways that meander through the village are filled with little boutiques and small courtyards. Listen to the children play as you browse through pieces of art on sale by local artists. Towards the end of your trip, head for the highest point of Èze where the best views can be found. Le Jardin exotique d'Eze, which means “exotic gardens”, offers a great panorama of the coastline.
4. Let your hair down in the city-state of Monaco (from USD 92.0)
After a 43-minute drive along the shore-hugging Basse Corniche, the lowest of the 3 sister roads, you’ll find yourself in the second-smallest country in the world: Monaco. The city-state has a world-class view of the Mediterranean Sea and plays host to unbelievably luxurious yachts. Try your luck at their grand casinos and you might just rub shoulders with some of the celebrities residing in Monaco. Formula 1 fans should schedule their trip during the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious automobile races in the motorsports world. Even if you miss the Formula 1 season, fans of automobiles can still visit the Fontvieille district, where you can find a museum housing the vintage car collection of H.S.H. The Prince of Monaco.
Nice French Riviera Day Trip Including Monaco, Antibes and Eze
Duration: 9 hours
West of Nice
5. Visit the Verdon Gorge and fields of lavender (from USD 119.22)
Witness the breathtaking grandeur of Verdon Gorge, where turquoise waters cut through towering cliffs. Then, immerse yourself in a fragrant sea of lavender in Provence’s rolling fields, a sensory delight that captivates with its soothing hues and scintillating aroma.
The tour also includes a visit to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, where you will get to enjoy the medieval ambiance while relishing a delightful lunch. This enchanting excursion from Nice promises nature’s wonders and picturesque landscapes, leaving you with lasting memories of the region’s unparalleled beauty.
Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour
Duration: 9.0 hour
6. Explore Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud (from USD 139.81)
Embark on an idyllic day trip from Nice to Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud. Discover the glamour of Saint-Tropez, where yachts line the harbor and vibrantly hued houses adorn the quaint streets. Stroll through lively markets, dine at charming cafes, and soak up the Mediterranean sun on sandy beaches.
Then, journey to the enchanting Port Grimaud, often referred to as “Little Venice,” known for its picturesque canals and pastel-colored houses. Cruise along the waterways, capturing the essence of this Provençal paradise. This full-day tour offers a glimpse into the French Riviera’s coastal beauty, promising a day of luxury and enchantment.
From Nice: Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Full-Day Tour
Duration: 9.0 to 10.0 hour
7. Taste exquisite wines in Côtes de Provence (from USD 156.07)
Enjoy a delightful day trip from Nice to Provence with this wine tour. Explore three prestigious wineries, renowned for producing the finest rosés, robust reds, and fragrant whites that the region is famous for. Engage your senses in a tasting journey that reveals the heart of Provence’s viticulture.
As you savor these exquisite wines, the enchanting landscapes of the Provence countryside will captivate your gaze. This full-day tour promises an immersive exploration of the art of winemaking and the natural beauty of the region, making it a must for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Côtes de Provence Wine Tour from Nice
Duration: 8.0 hour
8. Tour the ancient village of Saint-Paul de Vence
A 38-minute drive away from Nice sits the charming Saint-Paul de Vence, a typical village perché, meaning “perched village”, of Provence. The medieval ambiance of the town has been preserved within its circular walls. A 12th-century keep stands proudly at the center of the village, the sole surviving part of the old château. Just a few steps from the keep is the village’s Collegiate Church. The 14th-century church was originally built in a Romanesque style, but changes to its appearance were made throughout the centuries. The Saint-Paul de Vence of today exudes an arty feel, with its presence of high-end galleries and sculptures placed along the cobbled streets.
9. Lay down on the beaches of Antibes
Famous for its numerous beaches, the resort town of Antibes is located 44 minutes away by road from Nice. Any fan of Pablo Picasso’s work has to pay a visit to one of greatest Picasso collections in the world; the collection totals 245 of Picasso’s works! The museum is set in Castle Grimaldi and was the first museum in the world dedicated to the Spanish painter. Apart from works of art, the castle provides gorgeous views of the bay and is close to the Marche provencal. The Marche provencal is a lovely French market that sells local produce. The smell of spices and herbs fills the market with glorious scents while flowers, fruits, and macaroons color the interiors. Another point of interest would be an archaeological museum housed in a 17th-century fortress.
10. Smell the fragrances of Grasse (from USD 55.0)
Located inland of the Côte d'Azur, Grasse is a 53-minute drive from Nice. Nestled in the foothills of the Maritime Alps near the Loup Valley, Grasse is a place for those with a fond appreciation of beauty and fragrances. The village is surrounded by evergreen fields dotted with the bright petals of lavender, mimosa, rose, and jasmine flowers that are used to make perfumes. Here, you can learn about the fascinating art of perfume making. Famous perfume factories, such as Fragonard and Galimard, hold tours that are open to the public. There are also several public parks with gorgeous landscaping, which are perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Panoramic Audio-guided Tour to Cannes, Grasse, and Gourdon from Nice
11. Soak in the culture at Cannes (from USD 65.0)
Famed for its annual Cannes Film Festival, the flashy city of Cannes can be reached with a 53-minute drive along the coast. The drive alone is enough to warrant a visit to this city. Although the area around Cannes is developing into a high-tech cluster, the city still offers a welcoming ambiance. Visit Le Suquet, the old town perched on a hill above the city, where you will find stunning views of the azure Mediterranean. For a pleasant stroll, meander through the labyrinth of small winding streets in the city or down the waterfront avenue lined with palm trees. The annual Cannes Film Festival is great if you’re a film buff, but that’s when Cannes turns crowded and chaotic. So avoid the legendary film festival if you’re looking to have a relaxing trip.
Small Group Half-Day Tour from Nice
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Hit the road!
Go for any of the above-mentioned day trips from Nice by car and discover hidden treasures such as the medieval village of Eze, glamorous Monaco, and the serene Verdon Gorge. Embark on scenic drives, indulge in local culture, and create unforgettable memories on these exciting day excursions from Nice.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Nice, France
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