Nice, located on the beautiful French Riviera, is a perfect home base from which to visit some of the most magical places France has to offer, along with many others.
The day trips from Nice range from the glitz and glamour of Monaco to the medieval charm of Eze, or to the artistic soul of Saint-Paul-de-Vence—whichever you prefer, there is sure to be a day trip tailored especially for you.
A guide to the best day trips from Nice France, that will make your travel experience even more memorable.
Key Takeaways:
- Monaco: A 30-minute train ride from Nice, Monaco offers luxury, stunning views, and iconic sites like the Prince’s Palace and Monte Carlo Casino.
- Eze: A medieval village 20 minutes by bus from Nice, known for its breathtaking views and the Jardin Exotique.
- Cannes: Just 40 minutes by train, Cannes is famous for its film festival, sandy beaches, and charming old town, Le Suquet.
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A hilltop village rich in art and history, reachable in 30 minutes by car, featuring the Fondation Maeght and historic ramparts.
- Ventimiglia, Italy: A 1-hour train ride takes you across the border to experience Italian markets, historic sites, and delicious cuisine.
- Antibes: A 25-minute train journey from Nice, offering beautiful beaches, an old town, and the Picasso Museum.
- Grasse: An hour by car, Grasse is the world’s perfume capital, perfect for exploring perfume factories and the International Perfume Museum.
- Travel Tips: Nice is a perfect base for day trips, with excellent transport links to nearby towns and cities on the French Riviera.
Monaco – The Epicenter Of Luxury And Glamour
Distance: 20 km | Time: 30 minutes by train
The small but splendid principality of Monaco is a dazzling playground for the rich and famous. Every first glance at Monaco will mesmerize you with the unparalleled feeling of immense luxury.
Start your day at the Prince’s Palace perched on a rocky promontory, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The palace is the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, and parts of it are open to visitors during the summer.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony will welcome you to this palace, which still enriches the splendor of Monaco’s royal heritage.
If you feel a strong affection for the sea depths and marine life, you will want to visit the Oceanographic Museum. An excellent marine fauna museum established by Prince Albert I, hosting an unbelievable collection, from sharks and turtles to many-colored fish. The panoramic views from the rooftop terrace are worth a snap.
Moreover, if speed and class are the things that leave you impressed, just walk the Monaco Grand Prix circuit—with a thrill at every step. Imagine the roar of the engines as you follow the route of one of the most prestigious races in the world.
End the day with a touch of elegance at the Monte Carlo Casino, where you may try your luck or just gaze at the breathtaking Belle Époque-style architecture. Monaco is more than just a day trip; it’s diving into a world of luxury and sophistication.
Eze: A Medieval Village Around The Hill With The Views You Will Never Forget
Distance: 12 km | Travel Time: 20 minutes by bus
Eze lies like a jewel on the French Riviera. It is a medieval hamlet perched on cliffs that overlook mills and the Mediterranean.
You can truly be transported back in time while walking through the scrunched cobblestones of the highly tortuous street, bobbing gently up and down.
It is discovering each new charming shop, art gallery, and quaint café that makes the village a labyrinth.
The absolute highlight of Eze is the Jardin Exotique: an exotic garden situated at the village’s very peak. Here, various cacti and succulents of different colors and sizes can be seen, all amidst one of the best views within the French confines. On a sunny day, visibility goes up to Corsica.
Eze is also famous for its perfume. A visit to the Fragonard Perfume Factory takes earlier on back to the art of perfume making. Get an education specifically for the delicate steps in making some of the most exceptional perfumes in the world.
Do not leave the facility without buying a bottle of perfume to act as a reminder of the good scents that you experienced at the place.
Cannes: The Sparkling Capital Of Cinema
Distance: 33 km | Travel Time: 40 minutes by train
Cannes is the city of glamour, with its world-class film festival. Beyond the red carpet strip, however, lies a huge treasure of attractions that would make it the best day trip from Nice.
You might want to start your visit with a relaxed wander down La Croisette, the main boulevard in town, which is complete with statues, designer boutiques, and five-star hotels.
If you have an interest in history and culture, come by Le Suquet—the old town section of Cannes. It is a charming area constituted of narrow streets, historical buildings, and local restaurants with Provençal cuisine.
You could climb up to the Church of Our Lady of Esperance for panoramic views out over Cannes and its harbor.
For the art enthusiast, though, there is always the Centre d’art La Malmaison, staging temporary exhibitions on contemporary art. However, what you would not want to miss after walking through Cannes’s cultural side is to unwind at one of its broad, sandy beaches or embark on a boat trip for a quieter time on the Lérins Islands, just a short boat trip away.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence: The Crossroads Of Art And History
Distance: 20 km | Travel Time: 30 minutes by car
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is far more than a picturesque village; it is a place where art and history blend harmoniously. This hilltop medieval village has long served as a haven for artists.
The narrow streets host galleries displaying the works of up-and-coming and established artists.
High on the list of attractions in Saint-Paul-de-Vence is the Fondation Maeght: a modern and contemporary art museum that counts among its collection works by artists like Chagall, Miro, and Giacometti. The sculpture is shown in its garden, set against the Mediterranean landscape.
After taking on all that art, wander the ramparts of the village, covered in places with the flowers and vegetation of the hills, overlooking the surrounding countryside.
And perhaps grab a drink at La Colombe d’Or, a historic inn beloved by Picasso and Matisse. Even if you’re not here for a meal, the walls of the inn are hung with original artwork. A live art gallery.
Ventimiglia, Italy: An Italian Experience Just Across The Border
Distance: 30 km | Travel Time: 1 hour by train
Look for the day journey with enticing borders to Ventimiglia, Italy, with a little charm because it’s just a train ride away and offers an Italian experience. Start your visit at the Friday Market, one of the largest and most vibrant markets in the region. Here, you can shop for everything from fresh produce to Italian cheeses and leather goods to handmade crafts.
The old town of Ventimiglia is a pleasant maze of narrow streets full of ancient buildings. A Romanesque beauty is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Nature lovers will want to visit the Hanbury Botanical Gardens after a short drive; some of the most beautiful plant collections in the world will leave you breathless against the backdrop of the Ligurian Sea.
Any trip to Italy will be incomplete without trying its food and dishes. Have a platter prepared of just-made pasta, and a slice of pizza from one of Ventimiglia’s heritage trattorias.
Antibes: History, Arts, And Fun Under The Sun
Distance: 23 km | Travel Time: 25 minutes by train
Antibes is a city where the history, art, and beauty of its Mediterranean coast merge into a single whole. To do this, start your day at the Picasso Museum.
Picasso lived in the city and worked for several months in Château Grimaldi. Most of his artwork, like paintings, drawings, and ceramics—material output from his creative work—can be found in this museum.
Walking is the best option in the old town of Antibes—a place of pure beauty. Even though the tradition repeats every day, Monday is an official off day for markets in the Marché Provençal. Some local products presented there include olives, cheeses, and Provençal herbs.
For sea lovers, the beaches along the shore of Antibes are one of the best on the French Riviera coast. Plage de la Gravette: for a bay of sandy beach to take good relaxation in the afternoon sunlight. Walk around the Cap d’Antibes: beautiful views and small hidden beaches to take a swim.
Grasse: Dive Into The World Of Perfumes
Distance: 44 km | Travel Time: 1 hour by car
It is really strong when you get to Grasse, which is set as the perfume capital of the world. Many celebrated manufacturers have their headquarters right in this very town.
It includes Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard, so you can find out all the basic principles of making fragrances on guided tours. At Fragonard, you can even become a formulator of your perfume, a unique souvenir from your trip.
The International Perfume Museum is a place where history and science in perfumery wish to show themselves. Exhibitions within the museum will tackle everything from ancient Egyptian perfumes to modern-day fragrances.
After this foray into the world of scents, take an easy walk through the old town of Grasse, with its narrow streets lined with shops of soaps and other items on lavender.
Meet the Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Puy, where masterpieces of Rubens himself stand out among many other great names in painting. The picturesque streets of Grasse and the charming spots around can have no more than one wonderful option for a day trip full of culture and appeal to each sense.
FAQs About Best Day Trips From Nice France
Is Antibes worth a day trip from Nice?
Yes, Antibes is worth a day trip from Nice. Just a 20–30 minute train ride away, this charming coastal town offers a more relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a well-preserved old town.
Explore the Picasso Museum, stroll the scenic Cap d’Antibes coastal path, and browse local markets. The blend of culture, history, and sea views makes it a top pick for travelers seeking a break from the crowds of Nice.
Is Monaco worth a day trip from Nice?
Definitely. Monaco is one of the most popular day trips from Nice and for good reason. It’s just 20 minutes by train, and you can explore iconic spots like the Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum.
Even better, you can walk around the harbor and admire some of the world’s most luxurious yachts. Monaco offers a perfect mix of glamour, history, and Mediterranean charm—all in a single afternoon.
What is the most beautiful village near Nice, France?
While there are many contenders, Èze often claims the crown as the most beautiful village near Nice. Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Èze offers cobbled alleys, stone houses, and jaw-dropping views.
The Exotic Garden of Èze and the Nietzsche Path hiking trail add to its allure. Honorable mentions include Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Villefranche-sur-Mer for their charm and historical character.
How many days for Monaco?
While one day in Monaco is enough to see its major attractions, spending two days allows you to explore at a slower pace and enjoy the nightlife or beach clubs.
Day 1 can cover the palace, old town, and Oceanographic Museum, while Day 2 could include the Larvotto beach, upscale shopping, or a helicopter ride for panoramic views.
What to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer?
This seaside town is a hidden gem and ideal for a peaceful day trip. Top things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer include:
- Strolling the Old Town: Full of pastel buildings, cafés, and boutique shops.
- Relaxing at Plage des Marinières: One of the best sandy beaches near Nice.
- Visiting the Citadel Saint-Elme: A 16th-century fort with panoramic views and museums.
- Exploring the Chapel of Saint Pierre: Decorated by Jean Cocteau, it’s a small but cultural stop.
Villefranche is also a great spot for photography, lunch with sea views, or just soaking up the quiet coastal charm.
Is Èze worth visiting?
Yes, Èze is a must-visit village near Nice. It’s one of the most romantic and photogenic spots on the Côte d’Azur. The medieval architecture, cliffside views, and the Exotic Garden make it feel like something out of a fairy tale.
While it’s small and can be covered in a few hours, the experience is unforgettable. It’s especially perfect for couples, photographers, and those interested in history or perfume (don’t miss the Fragonard perfumery tour).
Can you get a boat from Nice to Monaco?
Yes, you can! In summer, there are ferry boats from Nice to Monaco, offering a scenic alternative to trains or buses. The boat ride takes about 45 minutes and treats you to stunning views of the French Riviera coastline.
It’s a relaxing and memorable way to reach Monaco, especially on a sunny day. Be sure to check seasonal schedules, as boats don’t run year-round.
Conclusion
The French Riviera is a place of unmatched beauty and diversity, with short day trips from Nice being perfect for an exploration of all the unique experiences this place has to offer. Be it the luxury of Monaco, the artistic heritage of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, or the fragrant fields of Grasse; these are some experiences that last forever.
Whether it is planning a romantic getaway, family adventure, or lone exploration, these day trips can only optimize your stay in Nice. Easy transportation by train or car to no other ways of seeing Riviera’s hidden gems beyond Nice makes it popular.
Start planning the best day trips from Nice France, today, and just immerse yourself in rich culture, history, and natural beauty throughout this incredible region.
