Are you looking to explore the stunning French Riviera beyond Nice? Embark on unforgettable day trips from Nice to discover the beauty and charm of the surrounding region. From picturesque coastal towns to historic villages nestled in the hills, there are endless possibilities for enriching excursions just a short distance away from Nice. Join us as we guide you through the best day trip destinations that will make your visit to the French Riviera truly memorable.
Monaco
Travel tips
- Distance of Monaco from Nice: Approximately 13 miles
- Time to get there: Around 30 minutes by car
- How to get there from Nice: You can take the bus from Nice to Monaco, with the main bus station being Gare Routière Nice. Alternatively, you can opt for the train from Nice to Monaco, with the main train station being Nice-Ville.
- Click for Google maps directions: Monaco
Exploring Monaco: Things to do
Monaco, a glamorous city-state on the French Riviera, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking luxury, beauty, and excitement. Known for its opulent casinos, yacht-filled harbor, and prestigious Grand Prix motor race, Monaco offers a unique blend of history and modernity.
One of the top attractions in Monaco is the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, a symbol of wealth and extravagance. Visitors can try their luck at the gaming tables or simply admire the stunning architecture of this legendary establishment. For a taste of royalty, a visit to the Prince’s Palace is a must. Perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the palace offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Monaco’s regal history.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Jardin Exotique de Monaco, a botanical garden showcasing a diverse collection of succulent plants from around the world. The Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium is another must-visit attraction, where visitors can explore marine life through interactive exhibits and impressive displays.
For a leisurely stroll, head to the picturesque Port Hercules, where luxury yachts line the harbor and chic cafes offer the perfect spot for people-watching. Don’t miss the chance to explore the charming old town of Monaco-Ville, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re drawn to the glitz and glamour of the casinos, the natural beauty of the gardens, or the rich history of the principality, Monaco promises a memorable experience for every traveler. Plan your visit to this enchanting destination and discover the allure of the French Riviera’s jewel.
Cannes
Travel tips
- Distance from Nice to Cannes: 21 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by train
- How to get there from Nice: You can take a train from Nice Ville station to Cannes station or a bus from Nice Bus Station to Cannes Bus Station
- Click for Google maps directions: Cannes
Exploring Cannes: Things to do
Cannes, a glamorous city on the French Riviera, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a taste of luxury and sophistication. Known worldwide for its prestigious film festival, Cannes offers much more than just red carpets and celebrities.
One of the top attractions in Cannes is the iconic La Croisette promenade, lined with palm trees and luxury boutiques. Strolling along this famous boulevard, you can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and soak up the elegant atmosphere of the city.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Musée de la Castre is a must. This museum housed in a medieval castle showcases a diverse collection of art and artifacts, including ancient Mediterranean antiquities and contemporary works.
Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of the Lerins Islands, just a short boat ride away from Cannes. These picturesque islands offer pristine beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites such as the Fort Royal.
Cannes is also a paradise for foodies, with a wide range of restaurants serving delicious French and international cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in fresh seafood dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Cannes is a paradise for shoppers, with designer boutiques and local markets offering everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs.
Whether you’re interested in film, art, nature, food, or shopping, Cannes has something to offer every traveler. With its blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty, Cannes truly deserves its reputation as a must-see destination on the French Riviera.
Antibes
Travel tips
- Distance from Nice to Antibes: 13 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by train
- To get to Antibes from Nice, you can take the train from Gare de Nice-Ville to Gare d’Antibes. Alternatively, you can take bus number 200 from Nice to Antibes.
- Click for Google maps directions: Antibes
Exploring Antibes: Things to do
Antibes is a charming coastal town on the French Riviera that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the must-see places in Antibes is the Picasso Museum, housed in the Château Grimaldi. This museum showcases an impressive collection of Picasso’s works and provides insight into the artist’s connection to the town.
Stroll through the picturesque Old Town of Antibes, where you can wander the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Marché Provençal, a vibrant market where you can sample local produce, cheeses, and wines.
For a dose of nature, head to the Cap d’Antibes peninsula and explore the scenic coastal path that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can also relax on one of Antibes’ beautiful sandy beaches, such as Plage de la Gravette or Plage de la Salis.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Fort Carré, a 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of Antibes and the surrounding area. The Fort Carré is a fascinating historical site that provides insight into the town’s military past.
Overall, Antibes is a must-see destination for those seeking a mix of art, history, and natural beauty on the French Riviera. Whether you’re exploring museums, wandering the Old Town, or relaxing on the beach, Antibes has something to offer every type of traveler.
Eze
Travel tips
- Distance of Eze from Nice: 7 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- How to get there from Nice: You can take Bus 82 from Nice to Eze Village or the train from Nice to Eze-sur-Mer. The bus station in Nice is Gare Routière Nice and the train station is Nice-Ville.
- Click for Google maps directions: Eze
Exploring Eze: Things to do
Eze, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is a must-see destination for those visiting the French Riviera. The stunning views alone make it worth the trip, with the azure waters stretching out endlessly before you. One of the top things to do in Eze is to visit the Jardin Exotique, a botanical garden offering a diverse collection of succulents and cacti. The garden provides a peaceful retreat where you can wander among rare plant species while enjoying panoramic views of the coast.
Another highlight of Eze is the medieval village itself, with its narrow cobblestone streets and charming architecture. Explore the artisan shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, or stop for a coffee at a quaint café and soak in the atmosphere of this historic town. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Eze Fragonard Perfumery, where you can learn about the art of perfume-making and even create your own signature scent.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, a hike up to the ruins of the Eze Castle is a rewarding experience. The castle offers a glimpse into the region’s past and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the beauty of the French Riviera, Eze has something to offer every traveler.
Saint-Tropez
Travel tips
- Distance from Nice to Saint-Tropez: Approximately 70 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours by car
- How to get there from Nice: You can take a direct bus from Nice to Saint-Tropez operated by Varlib. The bus station in Nice is Gare Routière Nice, and in Saint-Tropez, it stops at Place Blanqui. Alternatively, you can take a train from Nice to Saint-Raphaël and then transfer to a bus to reach Saint-Tropez.
- Click for Google maps directions: Saint-Tropez
Exploring Saint-Tropez: Things to do
Saint-Tropez, a charming coastal town on the French Riviera, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of luxury, history, and natural beauty. The town is renowned for its glamorous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage.
One of the top attractions in Saint-Tropez is the iconic Port of Saint-Tropez, where visitors can admire luxurious yachts and soak in the glamorous atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with chic cafes and boutiques, or relax on the sandy beaches like Pampelonne Beach, a hotspot for sunbathing and water sports.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Citadel of Saint-Tropez, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, filled with charming shops, art galleries, and traditional Provencal architecture.
For a taste of local culture, don’t miss the vibrant Provençal market in the Place des Lices, where you can sample fresh produce, regional delicacies, and handmade crafts. Indulge in the world-famous cuisine of Saint-Tropez at upscale restaurants or enjoy a leisurely picnic overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, cultural experiences, or glamorous nightlife, Saint-Tropez offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every traveler’s interests. With its picturesque setting and lively ambiance, Saint-Tropez is a destination that truly captures the essence of the French Riviera.
Menton
Travel tips
- Distance of Menton from Nice: 19 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by train
- How to get there from Nice: You can take the train from Nice Ville station to Menton station. Alternatively, you can also take bus line 100 from Nice to Menton.
- Click for Google maps directions: Menton
Exploring Menton: Things to do
Menton, a charming coastal town in the French Riviera, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant gardens, and picturesque old town, Menton offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the top attractions in Menton is the Jardin Exotique de Menton, a botanical garden perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Here, visitors can wander among a diverse collection of exotic plants and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Basilique Saint-Michel is a must. This beautiful church, with its striking baroque architecture and ornate interior, provides insight into Menton’s rich cultural heritage.
Nature lovers will appreciate a leisurely stroll along the Promenade du Soleil, a scenic seaside promenade lined with palm trees and colorful flowers. The clear blue waters of the Mediterranean offer the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day by the beach.
In the evening, explore the charming streets of Menton’s old town, where you can discover quaint cafes, boutique shops, and local markets selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine, such as Socca (chickpea pancake) or Ratatouille (vegetable stew).
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, Menton has something to offer every type of traveler. Plan a day trip to this enchanting town and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of the French Riviera.
Grasse
Travel tips
- Distance of Grasse from Nice: 20 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- How to get there from Nice: You can take bus line 500 from Nice to Grasse, or the train from Gare de Nice-Ville to Grasse train station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Grasse
Exploring Grasse: Things to do
Grasse, known as the perfume capital of the world, is a must-see destination for those interested in the art of fragrance. The town is home to several famous perfumeries where visitors can take guided tours to learn about the perfume-making process. One of the top attractions in Grasse is the International Perfume Museum, which showcases the history and evolution of perfumery.
Aside from perfume-related activities, Grasse offers a charming old town to explore, with narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. The Notre-Dame du Puy Cathedral is a beautiful historic site worth visiting, offering stunning views of the surrounding area from its hilltop location.
Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning landscapes surrounding Grasse, including the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Préalpes d’Azur, perfect for hiking and picnicking. For a taste of local culture, don’t miss the weekly market in Grasse, where you can sample fresh produce and regional specialties.
Overall, Grasse is a unique destination that combines history, art, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers looking for a diverse and enriching experience.
