Top 8 Day Trips from Nice
Looking at taking some day trips from Nice? There are loads of great destinations you can easily reach from the capital of the French Riviera!
France’s Cote D’Azur is home to some of the most beautiful destinations in the country, including the exciting city of Nice. Sitting on the French Riviera, Nice is perfectly situated for lots of incredible day trips. Whether you’re looking to relax on a picturesque beach, or are seeking out some adventure sports, you’ll have plenty of options to craft the trip of your dreams.
Since Nice is famous for its beaches and landscape, many of our recommendations are best enjoyed in summer weather. If you plan on visiting in the colder months, you can still check these locations out, but it might be too cold for a swim! In any case, we’re certain you’ll enjoy your time here. And with that, here are our recommendations for the Top 8 Day Trips from Nice.
1. Monaco – Monte Carlo
If you want to up your country count, our first recommendation for a day trip from Nice is Monaco! While Monaco might have a reputation for being expensive, getting here certainly isn’t. For only 1,50€, you can hop on a bus and in just 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in Monaco. You can experience the life of luxury at the famous Monte Carlo Casino, but you might want to refrain from gambling too much there if you’re on a budget. Stroll around the city, check out the super yachts in the harbour, visit the Princes Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum. And if you’re here in Spring, you can check out the Monaco Grand Prix!
2. Scuba Diving
If you’re looking for a cool activity to do for a day while in Nice, you’re in luck! The French Riviera is known for its excellent diving options, and once here, you’ll quickly see why. Explore the underwater world of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and enjoy the spectacular sights of the marine life off the Nice coast. If you want to go with a group, Villa Saint Exupery hostel organises trips twice a day!
Try your hand at scuba diving in Nice
3. Cap d’Ail – Plage Mala
If you’re a fan of lounging in the sun, then you’ll be spoiled with choice here. One of our favourite destinations for a day trip from Nice is Cap d’Ail, where you can find the gorgeous Plage Mala. Hop on a train and arrive at the beach within 10 minutes. Set in a cove, surrounded by cliffs, and crystal clear waters – it’s pure heaven! We recommend packing a lunch, but there are also options to buy food on the beach.
Visit Plage Mala for a day trip from Nice
4. Sailing
Ever dream of sailing on the French Riviera? Well, now is your chance! Enjoy cruising around exclusive bays, sight seeing, snorkelling, and swimming. Sun bath on the deck and take a picnic to eat on board. And if you still have energy for more after a day of activity, you’ll be back in time for dinner and drinks in Nice’s Old Town! Like scuba diving trips, sailing trips are also organised by Villa Saint Exupery.
Sailing in Nice
5. Cannes & the Lerins Islands
We really weren’t kidding when we said Nice is perfectly situated for lots of great day trips. Cannes is also just 30 mins away from Nice by train! Famous for the Cannes Film Festival, it’s also home to 7 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, and many designer boutiques. If you’d rather spend time on the water, then we recommend taking a boat out to the Lerins islands. Here, you can explore the deserted bays and enjoy the pristine beaches. Boats leave every 30 mins from the old port, so make sure you’re on time!
Cannes. Photo by Jared Schwitzke on Unsplash
6. Antibes
This lovely little medieval town is only 20 mins away from Nice by train. Although many come here for the beaches, Antibes offers so much more than that. Pablo Picasso lived here for a short time, so naturally, there’s a museum dedicated to him. Other notable sights include the ancient sea walls and the Marché Provençal. A great option to consider for a day trips from Nice.
Antibes
7. Villefranche
Only 10 mins from Nice – Villefranche is a stunning former Italian fishing village with a great beach. Set in a bay surrounded by fishing and sailing boats, you’ll surely fall in love with this charming day trip destination. The knowledgeable staff at Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel can help you get there!
Villefranche
8. Canyoning
Our last recommendation for day trips from Nice won’t take you to the beach! This time, we’re going in the opposite direction. For the thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies, you can enjoy a day of canyoning in the mountains behind Nice. Sitting at the foot of the French Alps, you know you’re in for a treat. Trek down beautiful fresh mountain rivers, abseiling waterfalls, and jump off cliffs into pristine fresh mountain water pools!
Canyoning in Nice
Where to Stay in Nice
Our top recommendation for accommodation in Nice is Villa St. Exupery Beach Hostel. Famous for being one of the most social and friendliest hostels in Nice, you’ll love being their guest. You can choose from dorms and private rooms, and can participate in a variety of activities hosted by the hostel. They also have one of the cheapest bars in Nice, and are only 20m from the city’s main square.
Villa St- Exupery Beach Hostel
Top 8 Day Trips from Nice
We hope you’ve enjoyed our recommendations for the Top 8 Day Trips from Nice! No matter what you’re after, we’re sure one of these suggestions is the answer.
If you need more information to help you plan your adventure, click here for a range of helpful tips, city guides, food guides, and more. For all the latest news at Famous Hostels, follow us or subscribe on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Youtube.
