Top Things to Do in Nice France, During a Day Trip
Nice is the second largest city in the Côte d’Azur region of France. Nice is well known for its views of the Mediterranean Sea, rocky beaches, 5 5-mile promenade with iconic blue chairs, Belle Époque architecture, and an old port. Be sure to try the Niçoise salad, socca (crispy flatbread), pan bagnat (sandwich) while in Nice France. I made Nice my base for exploring the French Riviera and dedicated one day to the city, and I have no regrets. Here is how to spend one day in Nice France.
READ France Travel Guide
How to Get to Nice France
The Nice Cote d’Azur Airport is an international airport that is well connected to Europe and the United States. An Uber from the airport to the city center can cost around €21 and takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, for €1.50 take Tram Line 2 from the airport to the city center. The tram runs every 4–5 minutes during weekdays from 7:30 AM–8 PM and the ride is about 30 minutes.
Nice France is well connected by train. There is a 6 hour high speed TGV train from Paris. If you are following my Southern France itinerary, you will book the train from Beaune Burgundy.
How to Get Around Nice France
Nice France is a walkable city. There is a small tourist train that operates a 50-minute circuit including a stop at the top of Castle Hill. Public transportation is available by public bus or tram, and Uber is available in the city.
Nice is a great base location for exploring the French Riviera. Cannes, Monaco, Eze, Saint-Tropez, and Antibes are just a very short train or ferry ride away.
Day Trip Itinerary for Nice France
How to Spend Your Day in Nice France
Rent a bike and go for a ride on the Promenade des Anglais
Climb Castle Hill and enjoy the view of Nice Port and Promenade des Anglais from above
Sit on the Iconic Blue Chairs and people watch
Get lost in Old Town’s winding streets
Browse the stalls and eat socca at the Cours Saleya Market
Take a selfie with the #ILoveNice Sign
Photograph the Fontaine du Soleil at Place Masséna
Cool off in the fountain at Promenade du Paillon
Do some high-end shopping on Rue Paradis and Ave de Verdun
Rent a chair and enjoy some beach time at Ruhl Plage, Castel Beach Club, or Opera Plage
Eat gelato from Fenocchio’s and people watch in Place Rossetti Square
Ride the ferry to Villefranche Bay and enjoy the coastal views.
Browse modern art at the Chagall Museum or Musée Matisse
Spend a night out bar hopping on Rue de la Préfecture
Tip: Summer in the French Riviera is very hot. Get an early start on your day and plan to spend the afternoon in a museum or on the beach. Sunblock is a must!
Check the French Riviera Office of Tourism website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.
My Favorite Booking Resources
- Discover Cars Search, compare and save on car rentals.
- Trainline Explore effortlessly by train and bus.
- Booking.com Search Booking.com to find the perfect property.
- Hostelworld Hostelworld has great inexpensive options.
- Get Your Guide Don’t chance it, the best attractions sell out.
- Tiqets Get your tickets now, relax when you arrive.
- Big Bus Tours Hop-on Hop-off at all the iconic landmarks.
- Go City Card Save up to 50% on attractions, tours and activities.
- Welcome Pickups Airport and port transfers.
- Visitors Coverage Pick the right travel insurance for you.
- Use code SAVE10 to pick up a travel guide from Lonely Planet to browse on the plane.
- Shop my Amazon travel essentials and have them delivered to your home.
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Have a great vacation!