Best One-Day Trips from Nice: Explore the French Riviera and Beyond

Nice
France-002474 - Approaching Nice by archer10 (Dennis) is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
  • Monaco

    Explore the best of Monaco in a day!

  • Cannes

    Explore the best of Cannes in a day!

  • Eze

    Explore the best of Eze in a day!

  • Antibes

    Explore the best of Antibes in a day!

One-Day Trip from Nice to Monaco

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Nice: 20 km (12 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes by car, 20 minutes by train

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Drive along the scenic coastal road, the Moyenne Corniche, for stunning views of the Mediterranean.
  • By Train: Frequent trains from Nice Ville station to Monaco-Monte-Carlo station, taking around 20 minutes.

Main Attractions

Monte Carlo Casino The iconic Monte Carlo Casino is a must-visit for its opulent architecture and glamorous atmosphere. Even if you’re not a gambler, the casino offers guided tours that showcase its rich history and stunning interiors.

Prince's Palace of Monaco The official residence of the Prince of Monaco, this palace offers guided tours of its lavish state apartments. The changing of the guard ceremony at 11:55 AM is a highlight not to be missed.

Oceanographic Museum Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, this museum is dedicated to marine science and oceanography. It features impressive aquariums, marine exhibits, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.

Itinerary Suggestions

Start your day with a visit to the Monte Carlo Casino, followed by a stroll through the nearby gardens. Head to the Prince's Palace for the changing of the guard and a tour of the state apartments. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the Oceanographic Museum and its surrounding area. Return to Nice in the early evening.

Local Food

Monaco offers a blend of French and Italian cuisine. Try local specialties like Barbajuan (savory pastries), Socca (chickpea flatbread), and Pissaladière (onion tart).

Local Tips

For the best photo spots, head to the Exotic Garden for stunning views of Monaco and the Mediterranean. Don’t forget to explore the old town, Monaco-Ville, for its charming streets and hidden gems.

One-Day Trip from Nice to Cannes

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Nice: 33 km (20 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 40 minutes by car, 30 minutes by train

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Take the A8 motorway for a quick drive to Cannes.
  • By Train: Regular trains from Nice Ville station to Cannes station, taking around 30 minutes.

Main Attractions

La Croisette This famous boulevard is lined with luxury hotels, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.

Palais des Festivals Home to the Cannes Film Festival, this iconic building hosts various events throughout the year. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and see the famous red carpet.

Le Suquet The old town of Cannes, Le Suquet, offers narrow winding streets, charming houses, and stunning views of the city and the sea from the top of the hill.

Itinerary Suggestions

Begin your day with a walk along La Croisette, taking in the luxury shops and beautiful views. Visit the Palais des Festivals for a tour, then head to Le Suquet for lunch and an afternoon of exploring the old town. Return to Nice in the early evening.

Local Food

Cannes is known for its fresh seafood and Provençal cuisine. Try dishes like Bouillabaisse (fish stew), Ratatouille (vegetable stew), and Tarte Tropézienne (cream-filled pastry).

Local Tips

For a quieter experience, visit the Île Sainte-Marguerite, a short ferry ride from Cannes. It’s a great spot for hiking, swimming, and exploring the Fort Royal.

One-Day Trip from Nice to Eze

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Nice: 12 km (7.5 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 20 minutes by car, 15 minutes by bus

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Drive along the scenic Moyenne Corniche road.
  • By Bus: Take bus number 82 or 112 from Nice to Eze Village.

Main Attractions

Eze Village This medieval village perched on a hilltop offers narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Jardin Exotique A beautiful garden with exotic plants and cacti, offering panoramic views of the French Riviera. It’s a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Fragonard Perfume Factory Take a guided tour of this famous perfume factory to learn about the art of perfume-making and purchase unique fragrances.

Itinerary Suggestions

Start your day exploring the charming streets of Eze Village. Visit the Jardin Exotique for breathtaking views and a relaxing stroll. After lunch, take a tour of the Fragonard Perfume Factory. Spend the afternoon wandering through the village’s shops and cafes before heading back to Nice.

Local Food

Eze offers a mix of French and Mediterranean cuisine. Try local dishes like Salade Niçoise (tuna salad), Pan Bagnat (tuna sandwich), and Socca (chickpea flatbread).

Local Tips

For the best views, hike up to the ruins of the old castle at the top of the village. The climb is steep but worth it for the panoramic vistas.

One-Day Trip from Nice to Antibes

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Nice: 22 km (14 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes by car, 20 minutes by train

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Drive along the coastal road for scenic views.
  • By Train: Frequent trains from Nice Ville station to Antibes station, taking around 20 minutes.

Main Attractions

Picasso Museum Housed in the Château Grimaldi, this museum features an extensive collection of Picasso’s works, as well as pieces by other contemporary artists.

Marineland A large marine park offering dolphin and sea lion shows, aquariums, and a water park. It’s a great destination for families and marine life enthusiasts.

Old Town (Vieil Antibes) Explore the narrow streets, markets, and historic buildings of Antibes’ old town. Don’t miss the Marché Provençal, a vibrant market offering local produce and crafts.

Itinerary Suggestions

Begin your day with a visit to the Picasso Museum, followed by a stroll through the old town and the Marché Provençal. After lunch, head to Marineland for an afternoon of marine life shows and exhibits. Return to Nice in the early evening.

Local Food

Antibes is known for its fresh seafood and Provençal cuisine. Try dishes like Aioli (garlic mayonnaise with fish and vegetables), Bouillabaisse (fish stew), and Socca (chickpea flatbread).

Local Tips

For a unique experience, visit the Absinthe Museum and Bar in the old town. It offers tastings and a fascinating history of this famous spirit.

ItineraryTrip

Explore your next itineray destination with our AI travel agent. ... Because travel planning can be easy.

Chat with me
AI Travel Chat Agent