Nice, the sparkling jewel of the French Riviera, offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean charm, stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and cultural richness.
Whether youโre exploring the famous Promenade des Anglais, wandering through the Old Town (Vieux Nice), or enjoying the food and art scene, Nice has something for every traveler. But to make the most of your trip while saving time and money, hereโs everything you need to know before you go.
Getting from the Airport to Nice City Center
Nice Cรดte dโAzur Airport is just 7 km from the city center, making it one of the easiest airport transfers on the Riviera. Here are your best options:
- Tram (Cheapest & Easiest) โ Tram Line 2 runs from the airport to the city center in under 25 minutes for just โฌ1.70.
- Bus (Alternative Option) โ Airport buses #12 and #98 also connect to the city, but the tram is usually faster and cheaper.
- Taxi (Expensive) โ A ride to the city center has a fixed rate of โฌ32, making it an option only if youโre in a hurry.
- Uber/Bolt โ Rideshare apps are slightly cheaper than taxis but have surge pricing during peak hours.
Our tip: Take the tram! Itโs fast, reliable, and avoids traffic โ especially during summer when roads get congested.
Getting Around Nice
Nice is incredibly walkable, but for longer distances, public transport is efficient and affordable:
- Trams & Buses โ A single ticket costs โฌ1.70, and a 10-trip pass is only โฌ10, making it the best value.
- Vรฉlo Bleu (Bike Rentals) โ Rent a city bike for just โฌ1/day and cruise along the Promenade des Anglais.
- Day Trips by Train โ The train network connects Nice to Monaco, Antibes, and Cannes in under 30 minutes.
Our tip: If you plan to explore multiple areas of Nice, get a 7-day public transport pass (โฌ15) โ itโs a bargain.
Eating on a Budget
Nice is a food loverโs paradise, but you donโt need to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants to enjoy the cityโs best flavors.
- Try the Local Street Food โ Socca (a chickpea pancake) and pan bagnat (a Niรงoise-style sandwich) are cheap, delicious, and must-try dishes.
- Forville & Liberation Markets โ Perfect for fresh fruit, cheese, and pastries โ ideal for a picnic.
- Prix Fixe Menus โ Many restaurants offer set lunch menus (menu du jour) for โฌ18-โฌ25, a great way to eat well for less.
Our tip: Avoid restaurants along Promenade des Anglais. They charge tourist prices. Instead, eat in Vieux Nice (Old Town) for better deals.
Where to Stay in Nice Without Overspending
Accommodation in Nice can get pricey, but you can save money by:
- Booking Early โ Especially for summer visits.
- Staying in Less Touristy Areas โ Look at neighborhoods like Libรฉration or Cimiez for cheaper stays.
- Choosing Hostels or Budget Hotels โ The IBIS Budget and Villa Saint Exupery are good options for budget travelers.
Our tip: If you want to be close to everything, stay near Place Massรฉna. Itโs a central location with easy access to trams, the Old Town, and the beach.
The Best Time to Visit Nice
Nice is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience:
- Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and busy. Great for beachgoers but expect higher prices.
- Fall (September-October): Warm temperatures, fewer tourists, and great deals on hotels.
- Winter (November-March): Mild weather and lower costs โ plus, the Nice Carnival in February is a must-see!
Our tip: Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) to avoid crowds and get cheaper rates on flights and hotels.
Nightlife & Entertainment on a Budget
Nice has plenty of nightlife, but you donโt have to spend a fortune:
- Happy Hours (Apรฉro Time!) โ Many bars offer drink specials from 5-7 PM with free snacks.
- Beachfront Bars โ Instead of pricey nightclubs, grab a drink at a seaside bar like Waka Bar with ocean views.
- Free Music & Street Performers โ The Old Town comes alive at night with live performances โ no cover charge needed!
Our tip: The rooftop bar at Hรดtel Aston La Scala has the best views without the overpriced cocktails.
Free & Affordable Activities in Nice
Despite its glamorous reputation, there are plenty of free things to do in Nice:
- Stroll Along the Promenade des Anglais โ A must-do, day or night.
- Explore Castle Hill (Colline du Chรขteau) โ Free entry, stunning views of the coastline.
- Visit Parc Phoenix โ A botanical garden with a โฌ5 entry fee โ great for families.
- Beach Days on Plage du Centenaire โ One of the few free public beaches in Nice.
Our tip: If you plan to visit multiple museums, buy the Nice Museum Pass (โฌ15 for 3 days).It grants access to over 10 sites.
Packing Tips for Nice
Pack wisely to blend in with the chic Riviera crowd while staying comfortable:
- Light, breathable clothing โ Summers are hot!
- A scarf or shawl โ Great for chilly evenings or visiting religious sites.
- Good walking shoes โ The Old Townโs streets are cobbled and uneven.
- Swimwear & Sunglasses โ The Mediterranean sun is strong, even in spring and fall!
Our tip: Sunscreen is expensive in France. Bring your own or buy it at a local supermarket instead of tourist shops.
Staying Safe & Healthy in Nice
Nice is generally safe, but be mindful of:
- Pickpockets โ Especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and train stations.
- Overpriced Taxis โ Always check the fare before getting in.
- Sun Safety โ Always wear sunscreen and stay hydrated โ heat exhaustion is real!
For medical help, pharmacies (marked with a green cross) can provide essentials.
Our tip: Download the Air Doctor app to find English-speaking doctors nearby in case of any health emergencies
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can easily access medical care anywhere else you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 91 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians
If youโre looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, the Air Doctor app is perfect for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.
