The Cote d’Azur, or French Riviera, is one of the most coveted holiday destinations in the world. This stunning region offers breathtaking landscapes, meticulously complemented by the vibrant hues of the Mediterranean Sea. Among the jewels of the Cote d’Azur is Nice, a city that not only boasts a major international airport but also serves as the perfect gateway for exploring other renowned coastal towns.
Top Day Trips from Nice on the Cote d’Azur
1. Cannes
Famed for the Cannes Film Festival, Cannes is a must-visit city on the Cote d’Azur.
How to get from Nice to Cannes:
- Train: 40 minutes, €19 round trip or €10 one way.
- Bus: Line 200, €1.5 one way, approximately 1.5 hours.
What to see in Cannes:
- La Croisette: Iconic boulevard lined with luxury shops, fine restaurants, and upscale hotels.
- Palais des Festivals et des Congrès: Home to the Cannes Film Festival, featuring the famous red carpet and the Walk of Fame.
- Île Sainte-Marguerite: Known for its scenic beauty and the fortress where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned.
- Le Suquet: The old quarter of Cannes, offering panoramic views and charming medieval streets.
- Musée de la Castre: A museum showcasing impressive art and historical collections.
2. Monaco
Monaco, a symbol of luxury and refinement, is a top destination on the French Riviera.
How to get from Nice to Monaco:
- Train: 20 minutes, €11 round trip.
What to see in Monaco:
- Casino de Monte-Carlo: A world-renowned casino epitomizing luxury and elegance.
- Prince’s Palace: The official residence of Monaco’s royal family, featuring the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Cathédrale de Monaco: The resting place of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III.
- Jardin Exotique: Home to exotic plants and stunning views.
- Oceanographic Museum: Perched above the Mediterranean, showcasing marine life exhibits.
3. Èze Village
Èze is a picturesque medieval village offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
How to get from Nice to Eze Village:
- Train: 15 minutes, €4 round trip.
- Bus: Line 82 or 112, €1.5 one way, 30 minutes.
What to see in Eze:
- Jardin Exotique d’Èze: Exotic gardens with stunning views.
- Château d’Èze: Ruins of a medieval fortress with breathtaking vistas.
- Fragonard Perfume Factory: Learn about the art of perfume making.
4. Menton
Known as the “Pearl of the French Riviera,” Menton is a charming town near the Italian border.
How to get from Nice to Menton:
- Train: 35 minutes, €15 round trip.
- Bus: Line LR100, €2 one way, 1 hour.
What to see in Menton:
- Plage de Menton: Beautiful beach.
- Jardins Biovès and Musée Jean Cocteau: Famous for floral displays and Cocteau’s artworks.
- Port of Menton Garavan: Ideal for admiring yachts and scenic views.
- Promenade du Soleil: Perfect for a seaside stroll.
5. Villefranche-sur-Mer
A picturesque village between Nice and Monaco, known for its authentic Mediterranean charm.
How to get from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer?
- Train: 7 minutes, €3 one way.
- Bus: Line 15, 12 minutes.
What to see in Villefranche-sur-Mer?
- Plage des Marinières: A popular beach.
- Port de la Santé: The perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Vieux Villefranche: The old town with narrow streets, cafes, and shops.
- Citadelle Saint-Elme: A 16th-century fortress with panoramic views.
6. Cap-d’Ail
Close to Monaco and Nice, Cap-d’Ail offers coastal charm and elegance.
How to get from Nice to Cap-d’Ail?
- Train: 18 minutes, €5 one way.
- Bus: Line 607, 30 minutes.
What to see in Cap-d’Ail?
- Plage Mala: A famous beach.
- Cap d’Ail Harbour: Ideal for admiring boats and dining.
- Villa La Vigie: Former residence of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III.
- Château des Terrasses: Admire its architecture and surroundings.
7. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
This exclusive area is famous for its natural beauty and elegant ambiance.
How to get from Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?
Bus Line 15:
- Departure Point in Nice: The Line 15 bus departs from the Nice Port area (Nice Le Port). The exact location is often at the “Promenade des Arts” or “Port Lympia” stops.
- Journey Duration: The bus ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Cost: The fare is usually around €1.50 one way. It’s a cost-effective way to travel and enjoy scenic views along the coastline.
- Frequency: The bus runs regularly throughout the day, typically every 30 minutes. It’s advisable to check the current timetable on the Lignes d’Azur website or app for the most accurate schedule.
What to see in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?
- Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: A stunning villa with exquisite gardens and art collections.
- Plage Passable: A scenic beach.
- Phare de Cap Ferrat: A lighthouse offering spectacular coastal views.
- Promenade Maurice Rouvier: A beautiful coastal walk.
8. Saint Tropez
Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, luxury, and nightlife, Saint Tropez is a world-famous destination.
How to get from Nice to Saint Tropez?
- Train and Bus/Ferry: Train to St Raphael Valescure, then bus or ferry. The bus takes 1.5 hours, while the ferry is 1 hour (April to November).
What to visit in Saint Tropez?
- Port of Saint Tropez: The city’s heart, filled with luxury shops and cafes.
- Plage de Pampelonne: Known for its fine sand and clear waters.
- Citadelle de Saint-Tropez: Offers panoramic views and houses the Maritime History Museum.
- Musée de l’Annonciade: A modern art museum in a 16th-century chapel.
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Happy travels! 🥰
