Just passing through Nice? Take the opportunity to visit the surrounding towns, Mediterranean landscapes, picturesque villages or the region’s verdant hinterland! You’ll find that the capital of the Côte d’Azur is an ideal base on the French Riviera for excursions across Provence.
Use our practical tips and photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the 10 best excursions from Nice to make your choice!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Nice
Before discovering our detailed opinions on each of the selected excursions, here are our 3 favorites:
- Excursion to Èze, the most beautiful village on the Côte d’Azur, then Monaco and Monte-Carlo – see prices, photos and availability.
- Half-day in Cannes and Antibes – See prices, photos and availability
- Discover Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud – See prices, photos and availability
1. Excursion to Èze: the most beautiful village on the Côte d’Azur
Why do we recommend this tour?
In our eyes, the charming village of Èze is a real jewel on the Côte d’Azur, and we were delighted. Nestled on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this village offered us a medieval ambience: cobbled streets, lush gardens and breathtaking panoramic views. Take a trip back in time and let yourself be carried away by the beauty and serenity of this picturesque commune in the hills of Nice’s hinterland.
What you will see
This hilltop village has a lot to offer:
- the village’s medieval streets
- the exotic garden, one of the most beautiful on the Côte d’Azur
- the castle ruins and sculptures by artist Jean-Philippe Richard
- Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church
- the Chapelle Sainte-Croix, known as the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs (Chapel of the White Penitents)
- Nietzsche’s Path
- Èze Beach
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day for a leisurely tour of this pretty, sloping village and lunch at one of its gourmet restaurants, such as Restaurant La Chèvre d’Or (2 stars) or Restaurant Château Eza (1 star) in the5-star hotel of the same name.
- The most practical: an organized tour from Nice including Èze – see program
- An original 2-wheeled tour: ride an electric bike up to Èze – See details
- If you’re going by yourself, read our car rental tips here
2. Getaway to Cannes
Why do we recommend this tour?
Renowned the world over for the Cannes Film Festival, its famous Croisette promenade is an absolute must-see. A temple of luxury and gambling, it is home to numerous hotels, restaurants and prestigious casinos. Between the historic Suquet district, the port, the beaches, the market and the museums, like us, you’ll love discovering this must-see seaside resort on the Côte d’Azur!
What you will see
During your stay in Cannes, you will have the opportunity to see..:
- The old town of Le Suquet
- The Croisette Beaches along the Promenade
- The city’s cultural wealth through its museums
- the historic Forville market
- if you have enough time, the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Sainte-Honorat
- Notre-Dame-de-l’Espérance church
- the Palais des Festivals de Cannes and the Chemin des étoiles
How much time should I allow?
You can also plan to spend a whole day in Cannes! Browse our suggested itineraries to visit Cannes in 1 day if you’re planning to go there on your own. Note that the journey takes around 40min by car and train from Nice.
You can also choose a guided tour (in several languages) of the best spots on the Côte d’Azur, including a visit to Cannes – see details and make a reservation
3. Day trip to Antibes
Why do we recommend this tour?
Situated between Cannes and Nice, Antibes is famous for its beaches and the seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins. Between sea and heritage, its museums, history and Fort Carré delighted us. You can also take part in water sports, or enjoy a pleasant stroll along the seafront.
You won’t be disappointed by the old town of Antibes. Known as the city of ramparts, it is surrounded by 16th-century fortifications. We also loved the plant-dotted alleyways, cobbled paving and small local shops.
What you will see
When you visit Antibes, you’ll discover..:
- the old town and its cobbled streets,
- Fort Carré,
- the Port Vauban and its sculpture Le Nomade,
- the Tirepoil trail at Cap d’Antibes,
- the Picasso Museum,
- the Provencal Market,
- the Villa Thuret garden,
- the Promenade de l’Amiral de Grasse,
- Notre-Dame de l’Immaculée Conception Cathedral,
- the beaches of Cap d’Antibes and Juan-les-Pins.
How much time should I allow?
In our opinion, you can easily spend a full day in Antibes. Find out more about our themed 1-day itineraries here if you’re travelling there on your own.
From Nice, you have to count:
- 1h drive by car (or cab) – our tips for renting a car
- 20 to 30min by train – book tickets
If you don’t want to drive, the easiest way is to opt for an organized tour including Antibes – see options
4. Tour of Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud
Why do we recommend this tour?
Its legendary port attracts some of the world’s biggest stars, and that includes Saint-Tropez. A seaside resort popular for its charming colorful streets and Provencal market, we were spellbound during our stay. Between beaches, museums, culinary specialties and vineyards, you’ll love discovering this not-to-be-missed town on the French Riviera.
Designed by architect François Spoerry in 1966, Port Grimaud resembles a little Provencal Venice, with its canals, bridges and colorful houses. Its network of navigable canals and fishermen’s cottages made the architecture original in our eyes! You’ll discover incredible views of the facades of the houses and the sea in the background.
What you will see
If you opt for the one-day guided tour we’ve selected, which gives you an overview of Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, you’ll see:
- the Mediterranean coast as far as Saint-Tropez
- the bay of Saint-Tropez from the boat
- the narrow streets of Saint-Tropez and its charming port
- the canals of Port Grimaud, one of the most beautiful villages around Saint-Tropez
- the Esterel massif and surrounding vineyards
How much time should I allow?
You’ll get the best of Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud in 1 day. If you prefer to drive yourself, you’ll enjoy greater comfort and freedom. We had our own vehicle during our trip to the Côte d’Azur, and we enjoyed our experience. All the more so as Saint-Tropez is not easily accessible by public transport (there is no train station in the town). You can rent a car in Nice.
If you prefer, you can opt for a combined guided tour of Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud:
- Day trip to Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud – see the program and make a reservation
- 1-day private tour of St-Tropez and Port Grimaud – see the program and make a reservation
- Return boat trip from Nice to Saint-Tropez – see the program and book
5. A trip to Monaco
Why do we recommend this tour?
Monaco, located on the Côte d’Azur between Nice and Menton, is an independent principality renowned for its international events, such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Built into the side of a cliff, Monaco impresses and fascinates tourists from all over the world, in search of a luxury experience. Its emblematic Monte-Carlo district boasts magnificent 5-star palaces, as well as the famous casino immortalized in James Bond films. As for the Rocher district, it gave us a glimpse of princely life. Spend a day admiring these architectural nuggets and magnificent coastal views!
What you will see
Even if you’re not into luxury, we think Monaco is well worth a visit:
- the majestic Prince’s Palace and the changing of the guard ceremony
- its many museums, such as the Oceanographic Museum, which won us over
- Notre Dame-de-L’Immaculée-Conception Cathedral
- beaches such as Plage du Larvotto, the Principality’s main beach
- sublime gardens such as the Japanese Garden
- the Prince Rainier Automobile Collection
- its excellent restaurants, where culinary savoir-faire takes pride of place
How much time should I allow?
A day in the city will allow you to see enough to get an idea of what the city has to offer. If you’re heading out on your own (30min journey) by car or train, take a look at our themed itineraries to visit Monaco in 1 day.
If you don’t want to drive, you can also opt for a guided tour that includes Monaco, so you can relax on the way:
- from Nice, visit Èze, the Fragonard museum, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Paul-de-Vence: see program and availability
- from Nice, visit Monaco, Menton and the Italian Riviera: see program and availability
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
6. Exploring Provence’s medieval villages
Why do we recommend this tour?
Narrow streets filled with green plants, stone-walled houses, hidden fountains, castle ruins and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean… We’ve unearthed a few nuggets while exploring the villages of the Côte d’Azur. In the hills, Èze is undoubtedly the most beautiful to our eyes. Perhaps you, like us, will fall under the spell of Roquebrune and its castle, or Mougins, with its medieval charm, refined cuisine and artistic ambience! Or will you be tempted by Saint-Paul-de-Vence, its ramparts and art galleries?
What you will see
Like us, get your fill of beautiful images by discovering the most beautiful villages on the Côte d’Azur:
- medieval castles
- charming alleyways
- villages perched on hilltops
- an unparalleled artistic and historical heritage
- local crafts such as ceramics and glass-blowing
- delicious Provençal cuisine
How much time should I allow?
Depending on how much time you have and how many villages you want to visit, opt for a half or full day trip from Nice. The most practical way of getting around is by car. Some villages are accessible by train, but journeys can be long and are not always direct.
In our opinion, a guided tour is the best way to see as much as possible and make the most of the moment:
- half-day tour of Côte d’Azur villages and wine tasting – France see details
- local arts and crafts in Provence’s villages – find out more
- a day in the medieval villages of the Côte d’Azur – reserve your place
7. Stroll in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Why do we recommend this tour?
Just a 20-minute drive from Nice city center, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a pretty commune typical of the French Riviera, with the charm of its steep streets, colorful monuments and sparkling turquoise waters. We really enjoyed strolling around. Marvel at Église Saint-Michel, relax on Plage des Marinières where the water is a sumptuous color, or admire the architecture of the Belle Époque villas. There’s no doubt that this excursion promises to be a real eye-opener!
What you will see
If you spend a day in Villefranche-sur-Mer, you’ll enjoy..:
- the Citadelle Saint-Elme, a remarkable military structure built in the 16th century
- the Plage des Marinières with its turquoise waters, one of our favorites on the Côte d’Azur
- Saint-Michel Church, a jewel nestled between the colorful houses of the old town
- the picturesque old town with its narrow streets
- the interior of the flamboyant Chapelle Saint-Pierre, decorated by Jean Cocteau
- Port de la Santé
- Belle Époque villas
- the breathtaking view of the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer – reserve a place on the boat
How much time should I allow?
A day in Villefranche-sur-Mer gives you a good overview of the town and its highlights! If you’re planning to visit on your own, check out our ideas for things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer here. From Nice, allow 25 minutes by car and 15 minutes by train.
Would you like to discover this beautiful village by sea? Reserve your place now on board a 1-hour cruise from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer – see prices, photos and availability.
Would you like to relax during your day of sightseeing and not have to worry about transportation? Opt for a turnkey guided tour that includes Villefranche-sur-Mer – see options
8. Walk to Villa Ephrussi and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Why do we recommend this tour?
Looking for peace and nature? Take a trip to Cap Ferrat, a 20-minute drive from Nice! Running along the cliffs, the Sentier du littoral (coastal path) takes you around the cape (6km) from the village of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, past the lighthouse. During your Côte d’Azur getaway, we encourage you to stop off at the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Its timeless elegance makes it a true architectural gem and a testament to Belle Époque refinement. We loved its sumptuous lounges and 9 enchanting gardens overlooking the Mediterranean. Remember to book your tickets in advance with audioguide included!
What you will see
As well as recharging your batteries in an exceptional environment, you’ll be able to see..:
- the Villa Ephrussi and its incredible gardens
- Villa Santo Sospir, decorated by Jean Cocteau
- the Chapelle Sainte-Hospice and its ten-metre-high bronze Virgin Mary
- the Belgian military cemetery
- the semaphore, built under Napoleon III and rising to 153m
- the 16th-century lighthouse
- the beaches
- the old port
How much time should I allow?
Plan a day to visit Cap-Ferrat and the Villa Ephrussi, as the villa is vast and rich, with gardens stretching over 7 hectares! For a visit to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, home to Villa Kerylos, another Belle Époque masterpiece, it’s a 10-minute drive from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or a 20-minute drive from Nice. You can also take a 1-hour boat trip from Nice to admire the Cap Ferrat coastline – see details
9. Provence vineyards tour
Why do we recommend this tour?
Did you know that Provence is a world-famous wine-growing region? Almost half of Provence’s rosé production crosses French borders every year. A wine that has become a real export star! What would you say to tasting its succulent Provençal references during your stay while strolling through the vineyards? Join us for a day of wine exploration and tasting. We particularly recommend this tour for oenophiles. Along the way, you’ll discover magnificent views of the Côte d’Azur!
What you will see
During this small-group excursion, you’ll enjoy..:
- visits to 3 award-winning Côtes de Provence vineyards
- a tasting of a selection of red, rosé and white wines from the region
- a tour of wineries through the Provencal countryside
- an English-speaking wine expert
- a village tour in the hinterland
- transportation in an air-conditioned minivan
How much time should I allow?
It takes a full day to complete this organized tour of Provence.
- A wine day from Nice: visit vineyards, charming villages and wine tasting – see program and availability
- Provence wine tour from Nice in 1 day: learn how to pair food and wine, visit vineyards and taste exceptional wines – find out more
10. Discovering the Gorges du Verdon
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Gorges du Verdon, a natural canyon with limestone cliffs overlooking emerald waters, is another must-see from Nice. Visit charming villages perched on the road, admire lavender fields, panoramic views of sublime Mediterranean landscapes or the Sainte-Croix lake at the foot of the Gorges du Verdon. Our photos will be available soon. We heartily recommend this tour as a great way to take in the sights and sounds of nature!
What you will see
In our opinion, this excursion is worth the detour for several reasons:
- the incredible Gorges du Verdon, 25km long
- Lac de Sainte-Croix, France’s 3rd largest lake at the foot of the Canyon
- picturesque villages such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- lavender fields as far as the eye can see on the road
- a professional multilingual guide
- pick-up and drop-off at your hotel
How much time should I allow?
Plan a full day for this excursion that will fill your day!
Is the tour family-friendly?
Young and old alike can take part, even with small children. It’s never too early to fill up on nature and beautiful images, while remaining cautious. Baby car seats are available on request, and you can even enjoy a swim in the lake – just bring your bathing suits and towels for the whole family!
Book your day trip to the Gorges du Verdon from Nice!
Frequently asked questions
Where to go by car from Nice?
From Nice, you can choose between several fascinating destinations within easy reach by car, thanks in particular to the A8 freeway. Just a 25-minute drive away, discover the village ofÈze and its panoramic views, the glamour of Monaco, Antibes, the city of ramparts, and its beaches. A little further afield, the Gorges du Verdon for nature, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence for art. The Côte d’Azur promises culture, relaxation and adventure at your fingertips. If necessary, read our tips for renting a car in Nice.
What towns to visit around Nice?
Around Nice, there are many villages to explore. Some are accessible by train, but not by direct route, otherwise the ideal means of transport remains the car. During our stay on the Côte d’Azur, we had our own car, so we visited several major cities that are also accessible from Nice: Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, Menton, Bandol, Saint-Tropez, Saint-Raphaël, Fréjus, and many others… Each city offers a unique experience just a few kilometers from Nice.
What kid-friendly excursions are there from Nice?
Of all the places mentioned in our selection in this article, most are family-friendly excursions, with the exception of the Provence wine tasting. Beach activities, nature, discovery, walks, child-friendly museums in the various destinations, you’ll have plenty to keep young and old busy. See our articles on things to do in each city for more details on family activities.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
Successful travel on the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual
- Where to stay
Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
Best luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur
Hotels by the sea
Best boutique-hotels
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
