15 best day trips from Nice: exploring the French Riviera and beyond

While there’s no denying that Nice is one of the best places to visit on the French Riviera, there are plenty of incredible day trips from Nice to enjoy too. 

In fact, I think that Nice serves as a great base for exploring the Côte d’Azur, as it is well-connected to many of the nearby towns and villages. 

From the charming hilltop villages of Eze and Saint Paul de Vence to the glitz and glamour of towns like Cannes and Saint Tropez, I love the variety of wonderful locations available to explore from Nice.

Drawing on my own personal travel experiences of exploring the French Riviera and beyond, plus recommendations from fellow travellers, I’ve brought together the best day trips from Nice. 

1. Antibes

Best for: Picasso fans

Travel times:

• By train: 19 minutes (book here)
• By car: 1 hour

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Picasso Museum
• Wander the old town
• Relax on a golden-sand beach

Known for its beautiful beaches, historic town centre, and the stunning Picasso Museum, Antibes is a charming town located only 20 kilometres from Nice. 

With some of the most gorgeous beaches on the French Riviera, I think that Antibes makes for a wonderful haven for travellers looking for a relaxing getaway from the lively Nice. 

The most famous beach in Antibes has to be Plage de la Gravette – a small sandy beach located in the heart of the old town.

I’d recommend taking a dip in the turquoise waters or relaxing with a spot of sunbathing against a backdrop of some wonderful views of the bay.

Antibes’ historic old town is a maze of narrow streets, colourful houses and gorgeous blooms – in fact, it’s one of my personal favourite places to explore on the French Riviera.

Strolling through the old town, you’ll find many small shops and independently-owned restaurants and cafés.

I think one of the highlights of visiting the old town is the Marché Provençal, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, lovely flowers, and local crafts.

The Picasso Museum in Antibes is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum is housed in the Château Grimaldi, a 14th-century castle that was once home to Picasso himself.

Built upon the foundations of the ancient Greek town of Antipolis, the museum features a collection of over 250 works by the artist, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.

Good to know: I’d recommend continuing your art exploration in Antibes with the Picasso Trail. This scenic trail takes you to some of the locations where he lived, worked, and found inspiration across the city.

Discover more of the best things to do in Antibes or read my guide to the best hotels in Antibes in case you extend your stay beyond a day trip.

2. Villefranche-Sur-Mer

Best for: Relaxed vibes

Travel times:

• By train: 6 minutes (book here)
• By car: 25 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Citadel
• Admire the Chapelle Saint-Pierre
• Soak up some rays on the beach

If you’re looking for a charming coastal town to explore, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a fantastic day trip from Nice that I loved exploring.

Less than a 10 minute train ride away, this town is known for its stunning bay, colourful buildings and quaint local shops.

One of the highlights of a day trip from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer is visiting the Citadel, a fortress that dates back to the 16th century.

Listed as a historic monument, you can tour the Citadel and learn about its military history. Or simply wander around and take in the impressive views of the bay.

Another must-see in Villefranche-sur-Mer is the beautiful Chapelle Saint-Pierre. It’s filled with stunning artwork painted by Jean Cocteau, a famous French artist.

If you’re hoping to soak up some rays on the beach, I can confirm that Villefranche-sur-Mer has plenty of options. The Plage des Marinières is a popular spot, with crystal-clear water and plenty of space to sunbathe.

Good to know: Take a walk along Villefranche Promenade and stop by one of the bars on the waterfront for a drink with a view. I found it to be a delightful spot for watching the world go by.

Read my guide to the best things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer – or if you fancy staying for a night or two, discover my pick of the best places to stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

3. Monaco

Best for: Motorsport lovers

Travel times:

• By train: 20 minutes
• By car: 35 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Take a tour of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco
• Visit the Oceanographic Museum
• Stroll along the Monaco Harbour 

If you’re looking for a glamorous day trip from Nice, I know you can’t go wrong with Monaco.

This tiny principality is known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning architecture, beautiful coastline, and iconic motorsport street circuit.

Monaco has a whole host of things to do, all with an added touch of glitz and glamour. A truly iconic scene, Monaco’s Harbour is home to some of the world’s most luxurious yachts.

I recommend taking a stroll along the waterfront and soaking up the atmosphere to fully embrace the experience.

The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. You can dive into some royal history and take a guided tour to learn more about the royal family and culture of the principality.

The Oceanographic Museum is another popular attraction in Monaco. It’s dedicated to the study of marine life and home to a wide variety of sea creatures.

There’s also the grand Monte Carlo Casino, which you can visit without entering the gaming rooms. 

To really experience the lavish lifestyle of Monaco, there are a number of luxury hotels if you wish to extend your day trip from Nice into an overnight stay.

Here are some of the best hotels to book:

• Le Méridien Beach Plaza
• Hôtel Hermitage, Monte-Carlo
• Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo
• Monte-Carlo Beach
• Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Get access to VIP benefits like free room upgrades and late check-outs when you book through the luxury booking engine ASMALLWORLD.

Good to know: While Monaco is a great day trip from Nice, be prepared to spend a little more than you would in other nearby towns and cities.

Despite the price, I really believe that a visit to Monaco is undoubtedly one of the best things to do when in Nice.

4. Saint Paul De Vence

Best for: Art lovers

Travel times:

• By train and bus: 13 minutes to Cagnes-sur-Mer (train) then 20 minutes by bus
• By car: 40 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Fondation Maeght
• Taste local cuisine
• Browse the local shops

If you’re looking for a charming mediaeval French village to explore, I know you’re going to love Saint Paul De Vence. It’s one of my personal favourite day trips from Nice.

This picturesque village is situated on a hilltop and offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

Once you arrive in this quaint town, I recommend taking the time to wander the narrow streets and browse the many art galleries and local-owned shops.

Don’t forget to look up and admire the beautiful architecture too! For me, one of the highlights of Saint Paul De Vence is a trip to the Fondation Maeght.

This modern art museum features works by famous artists such as Joan Miró, Marc Chagall, and Alberto Giacometti. It also has a beautiful sculpture garden that’s definitely worth a visit.

Good to know: For an unforgettable meal in Saint Paul de Vence, I’d recommend heading down the hill to Toile Blanche. You’ll find incredible food in the most gorgeous setting (and it’s also a stunning hotel).

Read my guide to the best things to do in Saint Paul de Vence.

5. Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

Best for: Mediterranean views

Travel times:

• By car: 25 minutes
• By bus: 50 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Stroll along the coastal path
• Take a boat tour
• Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

For a relaxing day trip from Nice, I’d advise heading to the small peninsula of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. It’s located just a short drive from Nice and offers wonderful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Take a leisurely stroll along the coastal path in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat for simply breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding landscape across the French Riviera.

You can also visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which is a beautiful mansion that is surrounded by pretty themed gardens.

To explore more of the impressive coastline, I’d suggest taking a boat tour and exploring the hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by water.

When it comes to dining options, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has plenty to offer. You can enjoy a deliciously fresh seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants that line the coast. Or you can pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the secluded beaches.

Good to know: If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, I recommend renting a kayak or paddleboard and exploring the coastline on your own.

6. Èze

Best for: Botanists

Travel times:

• By train: 13 minutes (book here)
• By car: 25 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory
• Explore the Jardin Exotique
• Hike the Nietzsche path

A charming mediaeval town with breathtaking views, I think that Eze is the perfect Nice day trip destination.

Located just a short drive from Nice, Eze is perched on top of a hill overlooking the gorgeous Mediterranean sea.

A definite highlight of visiting Èze is the Jardin Exotique, a stunning botanical garden with a wide variety of cacti and succulents.

Built on the ruins of a fortress high above the town, the award-winning garden provides the ideal location for dozens of plant species to thrive. 

Even if you aren’t a horticulturist, I love that the garden provides visitors with unmatched panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding hills. 

A more unusual experience in Èze that I’d really recommend is to take a perfume making class at the Fragonard Perfume Factory. You’ll come away with a bottle of your very own handmade fragrance. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike up to the ruins of the ancient castle at the top of the hill. The hike is steep, but I think the views from the top are truly spectacular.

Good to know: Markedly more peaceful and quiet than other destinations on the French Riviera, Èze is a great destination for a quiet day trip from Nice. 

7. Grasse

Best for: Perfume enthusiasts

Travel times:

• By train: 1 hour 9 minutes (book here)
• By car: 55 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Molinard Perfume Factory
• See Grasse Cathedral
• Explore the Musée International de la Parfumerie

If you’re a perfume lover, I’d recommend a day trip from Nice to Grasse as the perfect activity.

Known as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse is a charming town located less than an hour away from Nice by car.

You can learn about the historical significance of fragrance production in the area at the Musée International de la Parfumerie. Or try it for yourself at one of the several factories.

For a fun experience, I’d advise creating your own perfume at the Molinard Perfume Factory to learn more about the mixing process and test out your skills. 

Make sure you take the time to stroll through the town’s picturesque streets and admire the beautiful architecture that’s around each corner. I love how picturesque this town is.

Good to know: If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors, I’d suggest heading to Princess Pauline Gardens or Roquevignon Park.

8. Menton

Best for: Gorgeous gardens

Travel times:

• By train: 33 minutes (book here)
• By car: 40 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum
• Explore the Gardens of Menton
• Soak up some sun at one of the beaches

If you’re looking for a day trip from Nice that offers charm, glitz and beauty then I’d recommend Menton as a great option.

Located just to the east of Monaco, this charming town is known for its beautiful gardens and exquisite views of the Mediterranean coastline.

Take a trip to the Jean Cocteau Museum for a collection of French artist Jean Cocteau’s drawings, paintings, and ceramics. All housed in a beautiful 17th-century building.

Another must-see attraction is the Gardens of Menton, which are filled with exotic plants and blooms. 

Menton has several beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun, away from the bustle of a popular city like Nice.

Plage des Sablettes is one of my favourite beaches in Menton, located just a short walk from the town centre.

Good to know: Don’t miss out on taking a stroll through the narrow streets of Menton’s Old Town. You’ll find charming pastel-hued buildings and authentically French cafés.

9. Cannes

Best for: Romantic cruises 

Travel times:

• By train: 28 minutes (book here)
• By car: 1 hour 

Top three things to do:

• Take a sunset cruise
• Walk the famous Boulevard de la Croisette
• Visit the Musée de la Castre

Located a short train ride away from Nice, this coastal town of the French Riviera is known for its luxurious hotels, high-end shopping and beautiful beaches.

Cannes draws visitors from near and far – and I can definitely see why!  One of the must-see attractions in Cannes is the famous Boulevard de la Croisette. It’s a palm-lined promenade that runs along the seafront.

Home to some of the most exclusive hotels and boutique shops in the world, strolling along the promenade truly transports you to a life of luxury. 

For anyone interested in art and culture, I’d recommend visiting the Musée de la Castre. Housed in a mediaeval castle, this museum has an impressive collection of art and artefacts from around the world.

What’s more, you can enjoy stunning views of the town and the sea from the top of the castle tower.

I don’t think a trip to Cannes wouldn’t be complete without lounging on one of the golden sands beaches. Plage du Midi beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a swim in the sea.

Whereas if you’re looking for something a bit more secluded, I’d suggest heading to Plage de la Boca. This small beach is hidden away from the crowds and offers a peaceful retreat.

Good to know: A great way of seeing all the sights and taking in the history of Cannes is on a guided e-bike tour – plus, it’s less leg work for you! 

If you fancy staying overnight in Cannes, I’d recommend the JW Marriott Cannes or the Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes.

Read my guide to choosing between Nice and Cannes.

10. Saint-Tropez

Best for: Golden sand beaches

Travel times:

• By train and bus: 54 minutes to Saint-Raphaël Valescure, then 2 hour bus journey
• By car: 2 hours 
• By boat: 2 hours 30 minutes (book here)

Top three things to do:

• Go kayaking in Ramatuelle Reserve
• Visit the Annonciade museum
• Lounge on the beach

If you’re looking for glamour, luxury and a taste of the high life, then I don’t think you can go wrong with Saint-Tropez.

Famed for its grand yachts, designer boutiques and picture-perfect beaches, the town attracts party-goers and culture-seekers alike. 

Take a trip into the old town to explore the charming narrow streets and colourful buildings of this famous coastal town.

Don’t miss the Place des Lices, a popular square surrounded by cafés and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat and a tipple. All while people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.

If you’re a fan of art, visit the Annonciade museum for an impressive collection of modern art from the 19th and 20th centuries – especially avant-garde paintings. 

Of course, no trip to Saint Tropez would be complete without a visit to one of its famous beaches and glamourous beach clubs.

Pampelonne Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in the area, with its crystal-clear waters and white sand. 

However, it can get crowded during peak season, so I would recommend visiting one of the smaller, quieter beaches if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.

In terms of beach clubs, some of my favourites include Club 55, La Réserve, Tahiti and Byblos Beach Club.

Good to know: To get to Saint Tropez from Nice by boat, you can take a ferry from the Port of Nice. 

The journey takes around two and a half hours and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline while avoiding the traffic. 

11. Cagnes-Sur-Mer

Best for: Exploring the countryside

Travel times:

• By train: 14 minutes (book here)
• By car: 45 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Renoir Museum
• Take a trip to the Château-musée Grimaldi
• Explore the charming French countryside

A small town located just 15 kilometres away, Cagnes-Sur-Mer is a lovely day trip from Nice away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

One of the main attractions in Cagnes-Sur-Mer is the Renoir Museum. It’s located in the former home of the famous painter, Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Admire some of his most famous work and learn about his life and artistic process in this museum.

Another must-visit attraction in Cagnes-Sur-Mer is the mediaeval village, Haut de Cagnes, which is nestled on top of the hill.

This historic neighbourhood is full of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 

Here, you can also visit the Château-musée Grimaldi. It houses an art museum and offers panoramic views of the town and the sea.

Built on an earlier fortress occupied by the Greeks and later by the Romans, the place is now an exhibition centre for contemporary art from across the world and a modern art museum.

Good to know: If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, Cagnes-Sur-Mer has plenty to offer.

The town is located on the coast, so you can enjoy a day at the beach or take a stroll along the promenade.

I’d also recommend going for a hike in the nearby hills or renting a bike and explore the gorgeous French countryside.

12. Peillon and Peille

Best for: Hiking trails

Travel times:

• By train to Peillon: 22 minutes (book here)
• By train to Peille: 28 minutes (book here)
• By car: 35 minutes 

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Church of Sainte-Marguerite
• Go hiking in the mountains
• See the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

I’d recommend Peillon and Peille as wonderful options for day trips from Nice if you’re fond of the outdoors.

These two charming hilltop villages are located in the Alpes-Maritimes region and offer a beautiful view of the valleys below and wider landscape.

Quaint and full of historic charm, the villages of Peillon and Peille exemplify the mediaeval architecture of the time in their buildings and churches.

Most notably, the Church of Sainte-Marguerite and the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine.

As hilltop villages, both Peillon and Peille offer scenic hiking trails to explore the area. They are also part of longer cycling routes, such as the Col de la Madone.

I know anyone who loves outdoor activities will love their time in these quirky villages. 

Good to know: You can easily combine visiting Peillon and Peille into one day trip from Nice. They are just a five minute train journey apart, so hop on and head to your next destination.

13. Beaulieu-Sur-Mer

Best for: A quick day trip

Travel times:

• By train: 9 minutes (book here)
• By car: 25 minutes

Top three things to do:

• See the Villa Kerylos
• Walk along the promenade
• Take a dip in the sea

If you’re looking for a picturesque and peaceful day trip from Nice, Beaulieu-Sur-Mer is the perfect destination.

I feel as though this seaside town is often overlooked, but located just a short nine minute train journey from Nice, it makes for an ideal spot for a day trip.

Offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation, the coastal town has a lot to offer.  Take a stroll along the town’s beautiful promenade, which offers enticing views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. 

Here, you can also explore the town’s historic centre, which is home to several charming cafés and shops.

I’d recommend stopping by Villa Kerylos, a stunning Greek-style villa that was built in the early 1900s. It features beautiful frescoes and mosaics, offering a fascinating glimpse into life in the early 20th century.

One of the top attractions in Beaulieu-Sur-Mer if you’re looking for a bit of relaxation is the town’s beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand.

With its gorgeous scenery, charming town centre, and fascinating attractions, I think this is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the French Riviera. 

Good to know: If you aren’t a fan of swimming in the sea, I’d advise heading to the town’s Olympic-sized swimming pool, which is conveniently located right on the beach.

14. Biot

Best for: Art lovers

Travel times:

• By train: 20 minutes (book here)
• By car: 45 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Visit the Fernand Léger Museum
• See the Verrerie de Biot glass blowing museum
• Indulge in authentic local cuisine

One of the main attractions in Biot is the Fernand Léger Museum, which is dedicated to the works of the famous French painter and sculptor.

Housed in a beautiful modern building, the museum features a large collection of Léger’s works, as well as several temporary exhibitions featuring other artists.

Another must-see attraction in Biot is the glassblowing studio of Verrerie de Biot. Here, I love that you can watch skilled artisans create beautiful glassware using traditional techniques.

You can also purchase some of their amazing creations in the on-site shop, which I think would make for a lovely momento or gift to a loved one.

As you wander through the narrow streets of Biot, you’ll notice the town’s distinctive architecture. Many of the buildings feature colourful ceramic tiles.

Be sure to visit the Église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, a beautiful church dating back to the 16th century.

Although Biot may be an often overlooked village, I think it’s definitely worth a visit for its rich history, interesting culture and captivating art.

Good to know: If you’re feeling peckish, there are plenty of options for lunch or dinner in Biot. I’d recommend trying some traditional Provençal dishes – and don’t forget to try some of the local wines, which are produced in the surrounding hills.

15. Gorges Du Verdon

Best for: Natural wonders

Travel times:

• By train and taxi: 1 hour 14 minutes by train (Les Arcs Draguignan) and 1 hour 30 minutes by taxi 
• By car: 2 hours 30 minutes

Top three things to do:

• Hike the Sentier Martel trail
• Go canoeing or paddleboarding 
• See the nearby lavender fields

If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder, you simply can’t miss the Verdon Gorge.

Located around two and a half hours away from Nice, this canyon is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Europe” due to its striking beauty and size – and I can see why!

As you drive towards the canyon, you’ll be surrounded by epic views of the French countryside.

Once you arrive, you can explore the canyon by foot, bike, or even by canoe. The Verdon River runs through the canyon, providing the perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim.

If you’re up for the challenge, I’d recommend hiking along the canyon’s rim and taking in the spectacular panoramic views from above.

The Sentier Martel trail is a popular option, but be warned – it’s a strenuous hike that can take up to six hours to complete!

For a more leisurely experience, I’d suggest opting for a boat tour through the canyon and marvel at the towering cliffs and crystal-clear water.

You can also rent a canoe or paddle board and explore the canyon at your own pace.

Good to know: It’s quite a long day trip from Nice, so I’d recommend booking onto a tour if you don’t have a rental car. The best tours to book are:

• From Nice: The Grand Canyon of Europe & its Lavender Fields
• From Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour
• From Nice: Verdon Gorge Full-Day Tour

More on the South of France

Planning a trip to the French Riviera? Discover my guide to the top things to do in Nice, check out my pick of the best hotels in Nice, or read my review of the iconic Le Negresco Hotel.

For more beachside inspiration, unearth my pick of the best beaches and beach clubs in Nice. Or read my ultimate Nice travel guide.