15 best day trips from Nice: Exploring the French Riviera and Beyond

 Nice is undoubtedly one of the greatest destinations on the French Riviera, but there are also a ton of amazing day trips you can take from Nice.

In fact, Nice's excellent connections to many of the surrounding cities and villages make it an excellent starting point for exploring the Côte d'Azur.

I adore the range of amazing places you can visit from Nice, from the quaint hilltop villages of Eze and Saint Paul de Vence to the flash and glamour of cities like Cannes and Saint Tropez.

I've compiled the top day trips from Nice based on my own travel experiences, which include seeing the French Riviera and beyond, as well as suggestions from other tourists.

1. Villefranche-Sur-Mer

Best for: Relaxed vibes

The top three actions to take are:

• Go see the Citadel.
• Admire Saint-Pierre Chapel
• Take in some sunshine on the shore.

Travel durations:

• Train: 6 minutes 
• By car: twenty-five minutes

I had a great day touring Villefranche-sur-Mer, a delightful coastal town that is a great day excursion from Nice.

This town, which is less than ten minutes away by train, is well-known for its picturesque bay, vibrant architecture, and charming independent stores.

Seeing the Citadel, a 16th-century stronghold, is one of the highlights of a day excursion from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer.

The Citadel is open for tours and offers information on its military past. It is recognized as a historic monument. Alternatively, just stroll about and enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay.

The stunning Chapelle Saint-Pierre in Villefranche-sur-Mer is another must-see. It is brimming with gorgeous paintings created by renowned French artist Jean Cocteau.

There are lots of beach alternatives in Villefranche-sur-Mer if that's what you're wanting to do. With plenty of room to tan and crystal-clear water, Plage des Marinières is a well-liked location.

It's a good idea to stroll along the Villefranche Promenade and have a drink at one of the waterfront bars while taking in the scenery. It was, in my opinion, a lovely place to see the passing scenery.

Explore my list of the top activities in Villefranche-sur-Mer, or if you'd like to spend a night or two there, see my selection of the top accommodations.

2. Saint Paul De Vence

Best for: Art lovers

The top three actions to take are:

• Go to the Maeght Fondation.
• Sample regional food
• Look through the nearby stores.

Travel durations:

• By train and bus: take the 13-minute train to Cagnes-sur-Mer, then take the 20-minute bus there.
• By car: forty minutes

I'm sure you'll adore Saint Paul De Vence if you're searching for a quaint medieval French village to explore. It's one of my favorite day trips from Nice, personally.

Perched atop a hill, this charming village provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

I suggest spending some time exploring the various independently owned stores and art galleries as well as meandering around the town's winding streets once you've arrived.

Remember to glance up and take in the stunning architecture as well! For me, seeing the Fondation Maeght is one of the highlights of Saint Paul De Vence.

Works by well-known painters like Marc Chagall, Alberto Giacometti, and Joan Miró are on display at this museum of modern art. It's also worth visiting because of its stunning sculpture garden.

Important information: I'd suggest going down the hill to Toile Blanche for a supper that will never be forgotten in Saint Paul de Vence. Not only is the hotel lovely, but the food is amazing in the most beautiful environment.

Check out my recommendations for the top Saint Paul de Vence activities.

3. Antibes

Best for: Picasso fans

The top three actions to take are:

• Go to the Picasso Museum.
• Explore the historic town.
• Unwind on a beach with golden sand.

Travel durations:

• By train: 19 minutes
• By car: sixty minutes

Only 20 kilometers from Nice, Antibes is a quaint town known for its gorgeous beaches, medieval town center, and the magnificent Picasso Museum.

Travelers seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling Nice will find Antibes to be a fantastic sanctuary, home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the French Riviera.

Plage de la Gravette, a tiny sandy beach in the center of Antibes' old town, is undoubtedly the most well-known beach in the city.

I suggest unwinding with a little sunbathing or swimming in the azure seas while admiring the stunning bay vistas.

The ancient old town of Antibes is a tangle of winding streets, vibrant homes, and exquisite flowers; in fact, it's one of my favorite spots to explore on the French Riviera.

You can find a lot of privately owned eateries and cafés as well as tiny stores when strolling around the old town.

Among the best things about going to the old town, in my opinion, is the Marché Provençal, a vibrant market with fresh fruit, beautiful flowers, and handcrafted goods from the region.

For those who enjoy art, a trip to Antibes' Picasso Museum is essential. Picasso once called the 14th-century Château Grimaldi home, where the museum is located.

The museum, which was constructed atop the ruins of the ancient Greek town of Antipolis, is home to more than 250 of the artist's paintings, sculptures, and ceramic creations.

It's good to know that you should continue exploring the Picasso Trail as part of your art discovery in Antibes. You may see some of the places in the city where he lived, worked, and sought inspiration by walking this beautiful trail.

If you want to stay longer than a day excursion, check out some of the top activities in Antibes or peruse my list of the top hotels in Antibes.

4. Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

Best for: Mediterranean views

The top three actions to take are:

• Take a stroll around the shoreline.
• Go on a boat excursion.
• See the Rothschild Villa Ephrussi

Travel durations:

• By car: twenty-five minutes
• 50 minutes by bus

I would suggest visiting Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, a little peninsula, from Nice for a leisurely day excursion. With stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, it's only a short drive from Nice.

For absolutely stunning views of the water and the surrounding area across the French Riviera, take a leisurely stroll down the coastal path in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat.

Another option is to go to the stunning mansion, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which is encircled by lovely themed gardens.

I would recommend going on a boat excursion to see the secluded coves and beaches that are only reachable by sea if you want to see more of the breathtaking coastline.

There are several different dining alternatives available in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. A superb lunch of fresh seafood is available at any of the many eateries that along the coast. Alternatively, you may bring a picnic and eat it on one of the isolated beaches.

Important information: If you're up for a little adventure, I suggest renting a kayak or paddleboard and taking a solo tour of the shoreline.

5. Monaco

Best for: Motorsport lovers

The top three actions to take are:

• See the Monaco Prince's Palace by tour.
• Wander around Monaco Harbor and see the Oceanographic Museum 

Travel durations:

• By train: twenty minutes
• By car: thirty-five minutes

Monaco is a great option for an opulent day excursion from Nice, I'm sure of it.

This little principality is renowned for its opulent way of life, breathtaking architecture, picturesque coastline, and legendary street track for motorsports.

There are many activities available in Monaco, all with a dash of glamor and glamour. Monaco's harbor, a genuinely famous location, is home to some of the most opulent vessels in the world.

To make the most of the trip, I suggest strolling along the waterfront and absorbing the ambience.

The Prince of Monaco resides in the Prince's Palace, which is his official residence. To find out more about the principality's royal family and culture, delve into some royal history and go on a guided tour.

Monaco's Oceanographic Museum is yet another well-liked destination. It is home to a vast array of aquatic species and devoted to the study of marine life.

Additionally, you can visit the magnificent Monte Carlo Casino without going inside the gaming rooms.

If you want to turn your day excursion from Nice into an overnight stay, there are several opulent hotels where you can truly immerse yourself in the opulent way of life in Monaco.

The following are a some of the top hotels to reserve:

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

When you use the opulent booking engine ASMALLWORLD, you can take advantage of VIP perks like complimentary hotel upgrades and late check-outs.

Important to know: Although Monaco is a fantastic day trip destination from Nice, budget a little more than you would for other surrounding towns and cities.

I firmly think that visiting Monaco is among the top things to do in Nice, even with the price tag.    

6. Menton

Best for: Gorgeous gardens

The top three actions to take are:

• See the Museum of Jean Cocteau
• Examine Menton's Gardens
• Visit a beach and enjoy the sun.

Travel durations:

• By train: thirty-three minutes
• By car: forty minutes

Menton is a fantastic choice if you're searching for a day excursion from Nice that offers charm, glamor, and beauty.

This quaint village, which lies immediately east of Monaco, is well-known for its lovely gardens and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean shore.

Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum to see a variety of pottery, paintings, and sketches created by the French artist. All contained within a stunning 17th-century structure.

The Gardens of Menton, which are brimming with exotic flowers and plants, are another must-see sight.

There are a number of beaches in Menton where you can unwind and enjoy the sun away from the hustle and bustle of a major city like Nice.

One of my favorite Menton beaches, Plage des Sablettes, is only a short stroll from the town center.

Important information: Don't forget to enjoy a leisurely walk down Menton's Old Town's winding lanes. There are quaint pastel-colored buildings and distinctly French cafés.

7. Saint-Tropez

 Best for: Golden sand beaches

The top three actions to take are:

• In the Ramatuelle Reserve, go kayaking.
• Go to the Annonciade Museum and relax on the sand.

Travel durations:

• By train and bus: Saint-Raphaël Valescure is reached in 54 minutes, and the bus ride takes 2 hours.
• By car: two hours
• By boat: two and a half hours 

I don't think you can go wrong with Saint-Tropez if you're searching for glitz, luxury, and a taste of the high life.

The town is well-known for its luxurious boats, upscale shops, and picture-perfect beaches, and it draws both culture vultures and party animals.

Explore this well-known coastal town's colorful structures and quaint, winding streets by taking a stroll inside the ancient town.

Don't miss the Place des Lices, a well-liked square where you may get a bite to eat and a drink surrounded by cafés and eateries. all the while taking in the ambiance and people-watching.

If you're an art enthusiast, the Annonciade museum has a remarkable collection of modern art, particularly avant-garde paintings, from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Naturally, a visit to one of Saint Tropez's well-known beaches or opulent beach clubs is a must for any vacation there.

With its white sand and pristine waves, Pampelonne Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the region.

If you want a more laid-back vibe, I would suggest going to one of the smaller, calmer beaches because it can get packed during the busiest times of the year.

Club 55, La Réserve, Tahiti, and Byblos Beach Club are a few of my favorite beach clubs.

Important information: You can take a ferry from the Port of Nice to Saint Tropez if you're traveling by boat from Nice.

While avoiding the gridlock, the two and a half-hour trip offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean shore.

8. Èze

Best for: Botanists

The top three actions to take are:

• Take a look at the Fragonard Parfumerie.
• Investigate the Jardin Exotique
• Go up the Nietzsche route

Travel durations:

• By train: Thirteen minutes
• By car: twenty-five minutes

Eze is a lovely medieval village with stunning vistas, and it would make a great day trip destination.

Situated atop a hill with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, Eze is only a short drive from Nice.

Undoubtedly, the Jardin Exotique is a breathtaking botanical garden featuring an extensive range of cacti and succulents that is a must-see when visiting Èze.

Constructed on the remains of a stronghold situated at a considerable elevation above the town, the distinguished garden offers an optimal habitat for several plant varieties.

I adore that the garden offers guests unparalleled panoramic views of the shore and the neighboring hills, even if you are not a horticultural.

I would highly suggest enrolling in a perfume-making lesson at the Fragonard Perfume Factory for a more unique experience in Æze. You'll leave with a bottle of your very own scent that you produced yourself.

Hiking to the old castle ruins at the top of the hill is another option if you're feeling daring. Although the trek is challenging, I think the rewards at the summit are really breathtaking.

Not to mention, Æze is a perfect place to spend a relaxing day trip from Nice because it's significantly more tranquil and calm than other French Riviera attractions.

9. Cannes

Best for: Romantic cruises 

The top three actions to take are:

• Go on a sunset sail.
• Stroll down the renowned Boulevard de la Croisette.
• Go to the Castre Museum.

 Travel durations:

• By train: twenty-eight minutes
• By car: sixty minutes

 This French Riviera town, which is only a short train journey from Nice, is well-known for its opulent hotels, upscale boutiques, and stunning beaches.

It makes sense why people travel from close and far to Cannes! The iconic Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes is one of the must-see sights. It's a waterfront promenade with palm trees lining both sides.

Strolling along the promenade, which is home to some of the most upscale hotels and boutiques on the planet, genuinely takes you to a life of luxury.

I would suggest going to the Musée de la Castre to anyone with an interest in art or culture. This museum, which is housed in a medieval castle, features an amazing collection of artwork and artifacts from all around the world.

Additionally, the castle tower offers breathtaking views of the town and the sea.

A trip to Cannes wouldn't seem complete to me if it didn't include relaxing on a beach with golden sands. The beach at Plage du Midi is ideal for strolling or swimming in the ocean.

However, I would advise going to Plage de la Boca if you're searching for something a little more private. This little beach provides a tranquil haven away from the masses.

Not to mention, it will save you a lot of leg work if you want to go on a guided e-bike tour, which is a fantastic opportunity to visit all the landmarks and learn about Cannes' history!

I suggest the Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes or the JW Marriott Cannes if you'd want to spend the night in Cannes.

10. Grasse

Best for: Perfume enthusiasts

The top three actions to take are:

• Go to the Molinard Parfumerie
• View the Grasse Cathedral
• Discover the International Museum of Parfums

 Travel durations:

• By train: forty-nine minutes
• By car: fifty-five minutes

A day excursion from Nice to Grasse is the ideal pastime if you're a scent enthusiast.

Grasse, also referred to as the world's perfume capital, is a quaint town that is less than an hour's drive from Nice.

The Musée International de la Parfumerie has information on the historical significance of scent creation in the region. Alternatively, visit one of the various manufacturers and give it a try.

To have a good time and learn more about the mixing process, I suggest making your own perfume at the Molinard Perfume Factory.

Don't forget to spend some time admiring the stunning architecture that can be found around every corner as you meander through the town's charming streets. I adore this town's picturesqueness.

To enhance my writing, I would recommend visiting Princess Pauline Gardens or Roquevignon Park if I wanted to spend more time outside.

11. Beaulieu-Sur-Mer

 Best for: A quick day trip

The top three actions to take are:

• View the Kerylos Villa
• Stroll down the promenade
• Go swimming in the ocean.

 Travel durations:

• Train: nine minutes
• By car: twenty-five minutes

Beaulieu-Sur-Mer makes for an ideal day trip location from Nice if you're searching for something serene and lovely.

I think this beach town gets a bad rap, but it's a great place to spend a day trip—it's only a short nine-minute rail ride from Nice.

The seaside town has much to offer, providing the ideal fusion of culture, history, and leisure. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the town's stunning seafront, which provides captivating views of the Mediterranean Sea's turquoise hue.

You can also visit the town's historic center here, which has a number of quaint stores and cafés.

I would suggest making a visit to Villa Kerylos, a gorgeous early 1900s Greek-style home. It offers an intriguing look into early 20th-century life with its exquisite mosaics and frescoes.

The beach at Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, which is renowned for its silky sand and crystal-clear waves, is one of the best places to visit if you're trying to unwind.

Its breathtaking backdrop, quaint town center, and intriguing attractions make this place, in my opinion, a must-see for everyone traveling to the French Riviera.

Good to know: The town's Olympic-sized swimming pool is conveniently situated right on the beach. If you don't like swimming in the sea, I'd suggest going there.

12 . Gorges Du Verdon

Best for: Natural wonders

The top three actions to take are:

• Walk along the Sentier Martel path.
• Take a paddleboard or canoeing trip.
• Take a look at the lavender fields nearby.

 Travel durations:

• Through train and taxi: the train ride (Les Arcs Draguignan) takes one hour and thirty minutes.
• By car: two and a half hours

The Verdon Gorge is an absolutely must-see natural wonder if you're searching for one.

This canyon, which is about 2.5 hours' drive from Nice, is known as the "Grand Canyon of Europe" for its amazing grandeur and beauty, and I can see why!

You'll be surrounded by breathtaking vistas of the French countryside as you approach the canyon.

After you get there, you can go on a canoe, bicycle, or foot exploration of the canyon. The Verdon River meanders down the canyon, offering the ideal setting for a cool swim.

I suggest going along the canyon rim if you're up for the endeavor so you can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from above.

It's common to choose the Sentier Martel trek, but be advised that it's a challenging hike that can take up to six hours to finish!

I would advise taking a boat excursion around the canyon to enjoy a more leisurely experience and take in the breathtaking views of the pristine water and sheer cliffs.

To explore the canyon at your own speed, you can also rent a boat or paddle board.

Important to know: If you don't have a rental car, I'd suggest signing up for a tour as it's a somewhat lengthy day trip from Nice. The top tours to reserve are:

• From Nice: Europe's Lavender Fields and Grand Canyon
• From Nice: Lavender Fields and the Verdon Gorges Tour From Nice: Full-Day
• Tour of Verdon Gorge

13. Beaulieu-Sur-Mer

Best for: A quick day trip

The top three actions to take are:

• View the Kerylos Villa
• Stroll down the promenade
• Go swimming in the ocean.
  

Travel durations:

• Train: 9 minutes (make reservations here).
• By car: twenty-five minutes

Beaulieu-Sur-Mer makes for an ideal day trip location from Nice if you're searching for something serene and lovely.

I think this beach town gets a bad rap, but it's a great place to spend a day trip—it's only a short nine-minute rail ride from Nice.

The seaside town has much to offer, providing the ideal fusion of culture, history, and leisure. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the town's stunning seafront, which provides captivating views of the Mediterranean Sea's turquoise hue.

You can also visit the town's historic center here, which has a number of quaint stores and cafés.

The beach at Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, which is renowned for its silky sand and crystal-clear waves, is one of the best places to visit if you're trying to unwind.

Its breathtaking backdrop, quaint town center, and intriguing attractions make this place, in my opinion, a must-see for everyone traveling to the French Riviera.

Good to know: The town's Olympic-sized swimming pool is conveniently situated right on the beach. If you don't like swimming in the sea, I'd suggest going there.

14. Peillon and Peille

 Best for: Hiking trails

The top three actions to take are:

• See the Sainte-Marguerite Church.
• Take a mountain hike.
• View the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church

 Travel durations:

• To Peillon by train: 22 minutes
• To Peille via train: 28 minutes
• By car: thirty-five minutes 

If you enjoy the outdoors, Peillon and Peille make excellent day trip destinations from Nice.

These two quaint hilltop towns in the Alpes-Maritimes region provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the valleys below.

The homes and churches in the charming, ancient towns of Peillon and Peille are prime examples of the mediaeval style of architecture during that era.

Specifically, the Sainte-Marguerite and Sainte-Marie-Madeleine churches.

Peillon and Peille, being hilltop communities, provide beautiful hiking routes for exploring the surrounding area. Additionally, they form a portion of longer cycling routes like the Col de la Madone.

I'm sure that anyone who like being outside will have a great time in these unusual settlements.

Important to know: Visiting Peillon and Peille can be easily incorporated into a single day excursion from Nice. Take the train, it will only take you five minutes to get there, and go to your next destination.

15. Biot

Best for: Art lovers

The top three actions to take are:

• Go to the Museum of Fernand Léger.
• Visit the Verrerie de Biot Museum of Glassblowing
• Savor genuine regional food

 Travel durations:

• By train: twenty minutes
• 45 minutes by automobile

The Fernand Léger Museum, which honors the creations of the well-known French painter and sculptor, is one of Biot's top attractions.

The museum, which is housed in a stunning modern structure, has a sizable collection of Léger's artwork in addition to a number of temporary exhibitions that highlight the work of other artists.

The Verrerie de Biot glassblowing facility is another must-see sight in Biot. I adore that you can witness expert craftspeople using age-old methods to manufacture exquisite glassware here.

Additionally, some of their incredible works are available for purchase in the on-site shop. These, in my opinion, would make wonderful mementos or presents for loved ones.

You'll notice the unique architecture of Biot as you meander through its winding alleyways. Vibrant ceramic tiles adorn numerous buildings.

Make sure you pay a visit to the stunning Église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, which is a 16th-century church.

With its fascinating culture, intriguing history, and striking artwork, Biot is undoubtedly worth a visit, despite the fact that it's a community that's sometimes disregarded.

Good to know: Biot offers a wide variety of lunch and dinner alternatives if you're in the mood. I would suggest sampling some classic Provençal cuisine. Additionally, don't forget to sample some of the regional wines, which are made in the nearby hills.