10 Amazing Day Trips from Nice by Train or Bus

10 best day trips from Nice, France

We will cover some popular towns and unlock some hidden gems of French Riviera as well. For each destination, you will find useful tips like things to do and see together with practical information like how to reach and how much it costs.

I have personally visited all these places and I know that these destinations are perfect day trip options from Nice. Convenient location nearby Nice and well-connected public transport will make your trip easy and fun!

Eze

Eze is one of the cutest towns in the South of France and another popular Nice day trip destination. There are trains and buses connecting Eze to Nice.

The town preserves a medieval charm that attracts visitors from all over the world. The village is famous not only for its narrow cobblestone streets but also for the dramatic sea views and its Exotic Garden.

Despite its small size, a day trip from Nice to Eze can take even all day, especially if you decide to hike through the beautiful Nietzsche path. However, if you don’t have so much time and want to make it a half-day trip from Nice, you can still manage a quick visit to the town.

Make sure you check this Eze travel guide and discover the best things to do in Eze together with other useful travel tips.

How to reach Eze Village from Nice? 

You can take either a train or bus to reach Eze. The train will be faster and more expensive, while the bus will make a lot of stops and take longer to get to your destination but it’s cheaper.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Eze Village? 

While the train will take you to the station in 15 minutes – the bus from Nice will take approximately 1 hour and a half. Keep in mind that from Eze station you need to add one hour to climb, or take the bus 83 for 20 minutes more.

How much is the train and bus ticket? 

The train ticket will cost approximately 4 euros and then you have to take bus number 83 which will cost you 1,70 euros. Alternatively, you can take the bus 82 from Nice Vauban (or Port Lumpia) for 2,10 euros.

Menton

Menton is one of the best day trips from Nice by train. The town lies at the border with Italy and it is a famous location in Cote D’Azur you don’t want to miss. This place is famous for its pastel color houses and typical coastline views, but there is more!

The picturesque old town blends perfectly with an elegant French vibe and an Italian touch which makes it very unique. Little Bay in Menton is a perfect place for swimming and soaking up some sun.

If you happen to be in the South of France in February, Menton is the best place to be! The famous Feast of Lemons turns the town yellow for a special occasion that hosts visitors from all over the world.

Overall, a day trip from Nice to Menton is perfect for taking some iconic photos of the French Riviera, taking a swim in the Mediterranean water, or assisting in some unique cultural events. Families with kids traveling to the South of France will love a laid-back atmosphere.

And once you are ready to hit the road and visit Menton, you will want to steal this one-day Menton itinerary.

How to reach Menton from Nice?

The best way to reach Menton from Nice is by train. 

How long does it take to get from Nice to Menton?

The journey will take you approximately 35 minutes and the trains depart usually every 30 minutes.

How much is the train ticket?

The ticket costs around 7 euros.

Villefranche Sur Mer

Villefranche Sur Mer is an easy day trip from Nice due to the short distance and the several connections between the two locations. This is one of the most charming towns in the entire Cote D’Azur and you simply can’t miss it when you visit Nice.

The laid-back atmosphere, the colorful houses, the charming Old Town, and the several seafront restaurants make it a popular choice for foodies, art enthusiasts, and people looking to relax.

A day trip from Nice to Villefranche Sur Mer will also give you the chance to take some epic photos from one of the several viewpoints of the city or the iconic Rue Obscure.

If you are still in doubt, check out 20 photos to inspire you to visit Villefranche Sur Mer and these unique things to do in Villefranche Sur Mer.

How to reach Villefranche Sur Mer from Nice?

The easiest and fastest way to reach Villefranche Sur Mer is the train, however, the local bus 80 will take you from Vauban or Riquer bus stop in Nice to central Villefranche. 

If you are planning to take the bus check the times as it is not so frequent. The train departs every 15 minutes.

You can also reach Villefranche Sur Mer from Nice by boat. This one-hour sightseeing cruise offers fantastic views and won’t break your budget.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Villefranche Sur Mer? 

You will get to Villefranche Sur Mer from Nice in 10 minutes by train and approximately 20-30 by bus depending on the traffic.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train ticket costs 3 euros, while the bus ticket is 2,10 euros.

Monaco

Monaco is a legendary location on the French Riviera and a dream for people who crave a luxury vacation. But if you want to have a quick glimpse of Monaco, this is also a perfect day trip from Nice.

Monaco is an independent country with a strong personality and a unique vibe. Despite its small size, the city offers a lot of fun and cool activities as well as cultural sights you don’t want to miss.

The area of the Royal Palace is perfect for those who are seeking a cultural trip. There you will be able to see the famous Saint Nicholas Cathedral, some panoramic viewpoints, or even the Musée océanographique de Monaco.

The gambling enthusiast can’t miss the most famous casino in the world, and discover the beauty of the building. It is surrounded by luxury hotels and shops, so it is a great place to see even if you are not planning to play.

A day trip from Nice to Monaco will reveal that the city has more than just a luxury lifestyle and yachts, you can find beautiful views and iconic landmarks too! If you are still wondering how to spend a day in Monaco, click here.

How to reach Monaco from Nice?

The best way to reach Monaco from Nice is by train which departs every 20 minutes, however, there are also 2 bus lines. The bus 80 departs regularly from Nice Airport, and you can take the bus 607 from Port Lympa to Monaco.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Monaco?

Train journeys from Nice will take you approximately 25 minutes, while the bus from central Monaco to Nice airport is approximately 40 minutes. Bus 607 will take approximately 1 hour depending on the traffic.

Keep in mind that the bus gets packed during commute hours as locals use it a lot.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train will cost you 5 euros while the busses will cost 2,10 euros.

Antibes

The charming resort town of Antibes is one of the most beautiful places in the South of France and a perfect place to explore from Nice.

Despite the luxury vibes and the high-brand boutiques, this is one of the most chilled locations on the French Riviera and a wonderful location to relax and enjoy a peaceful day on the sand.

If you are looking for a cultural day trip from Nice, Antibes will surprise you with the Museum Picasso, where the famous painter lived part of his life and the picturesque Provencal Market.

The surroundings of Antibes are also worth a mention. The infamous Cap d’Antibes has guested VIPs and stars from all over the world with its beautiful and intimate setting.

A day trip from Nice to Antibes is perfect for every type of traveler! Someone looking for just a relaxing atmosphere, an adventurous type looking for incredible landscapes, or just someone who enjoys a luxury lifestyle. 

Antibes is also one of the best places in South France if you are traveling with kids.

How to reach Antibes? 

Antibes is well served by several private and local buses and trains daily. Zou bus number 630, Blablabus, and Flixbus serve the town. You can take the bus from the airport in Nice to go to Antibes. The local Zou has a stop in Albert 1er Verdun.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Antibes?

Train journeys from Nice usually take less than 30 minutes, while the bus takes between 35 and 45 minutes depending on the number of stops.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train costs 4,50 euros while the bus is between 2 and 3,50 euros depending on the company and availability.

Saint Paul De Vence

Nestled in a picturesque location on the top of a hill, Saint Paul De Vence stands out as one of the best locations in the South of France and one of the best day trips from Nice by bus. These 30 photos will convince you that Saint Paul De Vence is worth visiting.

The medieval town of Saint Paul De Vence preserves an artistic soul like nowhere else in the area, making it a perfect cultural day trip from Nice.

During the last century, the town became a residence for artists such as Marc Chagall and Jacques Raverat. Other famous guests who spent time in Saint Paul de Vence are guests include Jean-Paul Sartre and Pablo Picasso.

Nowadays the town flourishes with art galleries, boutiques, ateliers, and picturesque cafes. A day trip from Nice to Saint Paul De Vence is ideal if art is your element and you like picturesque medieval towns.

And I have prepared a travel guide to help you discover the best things to do in Saint Paul de Vence.

How to reach Saint Paul De Vence from Nice? 

Reaching Saint Paul De Vence from Nice is not that easy and smooth as you will need to change at least 2 buses or take the train plus the bus. Either way, you need to reach the train station of Cagne Sur Mer and then take the bus 655.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Saint Paul De Vence?

Depending on the connections it might take between one hour and one hour and a half.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train to Cagnes-Sur-Mer costs 4 euros, while the local bus costs 2,10 euros. The bus from Cagne Sur Mer to Saint Paul De Venceis will cost you 2,10 euros.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a peninsula that exudes elegance and natural beauty. The area is home to some spectacular beaches like the famous Plage Paloma and some of the most beautiful properties in the South of France like Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a stunning mansion located on the French Riviera. The villa is known for its exquisite architecture, featuring a unique blend of different styles, including Renaissance, Venetian, and Spanish. Get your entrance ticket here.

Last but not least, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is home to one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the area, the Sentier du Littoral. The path is relatively easy to walk and boasts some of the most epic beach views in the South of France.

I recommend visiting Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to adventurous couples and travelers looking for off-beaten-path locations. 

How to reach Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat from Nice? 

Getting to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat might be a little challenging because there is only one bus line. Bus number 15 will take you from Port Lympia or central Nice to the port area. From there, you will have to walk the rest of the peninsula.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?

It takes approximately 1 hour depending on the traffic to get to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

How much is the bus ticket?

The bus ticket to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat will cost you 2,10 euros.

Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer is the first location you find right after the Nice border. This makes it an ideal and one of the easiest one-day trips from Nice, France. 

The seafront promenade is filled with cozy bars and restaurants that invite you to take a break while the Cote d’Azur life flows under your nose. The public-wide beach offers a laid-back atmosphere even during the high season.

But Cagnes-Sur-Mer offers also cultural options for travelers looking for something more than just bars on the beaches. The area is home to the famous Musée Renoir, one of the best museums in the South of France, and the Grimaldi Castle.

Grimaldi Castle is located further away from the promenade and it requires another bus ride, but it feels like another medieval village in Southern France. Even if you are not interested in visiting the castle, I still suggest you head up and explore the area and the views from the top.

A day trip from Nice to Cagnes-sur-Mer is a great idea to mix culture and leisure. No matter if you are traveling to the South of France with kids or by yourself, you will find something fun to do in Cagnes-sur-Mer.

How to reach Cagnes-sur-Mer from Nice? 

Multiple trains and bus lines connect Nice with Cagnes-sur-Mer. You can take the bus number 12 or 630 from the airport.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Cagnes-sur-Mer?

The train ride is approximately 20 minutes, while the bus from central Nice will take approximately 45 minutes.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train will cost you approximately 3 euros while the bus is 2,10 euros.

Cannes

Cannes is one of the most beautiful places on the French Riviera and one of the best day trips from Nice by train, but you can also reach it by bus. The town of Cannes is famous for its luxury lifestyle, the Festival de Cannes, and its romantic allure.

The famous Croisette is one of the best promenades in all of France a full immersion into lavish architecture and a paradise for shopping for brands. The colorful old town is dominated by the Church Notre-Dame d’Espérance and the Château de la Castre where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

If you are thinking of spending one day in Cannes, don’t forget that you can easily visit Ste. Marguerite Island or Lérins Islands in front of the city.

In my opinion, Cannes is one of the best places in the South of France for a romantic gateway and I recommend it also for solo travelers who want a spark of luxury during their vacation.

How to reach Cannes from Nice? 

It’s extremely easy to reach Cannes from Nice. The train departs regularly every 30 minutes while public (Zou) and private buses (Blablabus and Flixbus) also connect Nice to Cannes.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Cannes?

Train journeys from Nice take approximately 40 minutes, while the bus should be just a little longer depending on the traffic.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train ride will cost you approximately 7,50 euros and the Zou bus ticket is 3,80. Blablabus and Flixbus prices depend on the availability.

Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

Right next to Monaco, find the picturesque Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. This gem on the French Riviera astonishes visitors with its natural, pristine beaches, jaw-dropping views, and charming old town.

Roquebrune is a relatively vast area that offers plenty to do to all types of travelers. The castle in the middle of the medieval village stands proud and offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the town and the Mediterranean Sea.

People looking for a relaxing day trip from Nice can lie on one of the little hidden beaches in the area. Some of the most popular beaches are Le Buse, Plage du Golfe Bleu, and Plage de Carnolès. The water on the Plage de Carnolès is particularly calm thanks to its location on a bay.

Cap Martin also stands out for offering one of the most beautiful trails in the South of France. Along the coastal path, you will find Sentier du Corbusier, which is pretty long and it involves several steps, however, it’s not particularly difficult as long as you have comfortable shoes.

So, a day trip from Nice to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is perfect if you are a romantic or adventurous couple. Also, if you are traveling to the South of France with kids and want to enjoy a relaxing moment on a beautiful beach, you will love Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

How to reach Roquebrune-Cap-Martin from Nice? 

The best way to reach Roquebrune-Cap-Martin from Nice is the train, however bus 601 leaves from central Nice as well.

How long does it take to get from Nice to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin?

Train journeys from Nice take less than 30 minutes, and the bus takes more than one hour.

How much is the train and bus ticket?

The train costs approximately 5 euros, while the bus will cost you 2,10 euros.

Don’t forget to plan your time in Nice as well! These will help you:

• 20 Best Photo Spots in Nice, France + Photo Tips
• 23 Best Things to Do in Nice, France + Useful Travel Tips
• One Day Nice Itinerary: Make The Most of 24 Hours in Nice
• 10 Best Hotels in Nice With a Sea View
• 10 Local Nice Foods to Try: What to Eat in Nice, France
• 10 Amazing Local Restaurants in Nice Old Town
• 7 Best Food Tours in Nice for Every Foodie
• 10 Best Cafes in Nice For Brunch, Croissants and Coffee

In conclusion…

This is the end of the best day trips from Nice by train or bus and I am sure that you have planned multiple getaways for your next trip to Nice.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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