Nice Le Grand Tour – Ultimate French Riviera Travel Itinerary & Guide

Recommendation for a smooth start: Base yourself in villefrance and hire a driver for day trips along the coast. This keeps costs cheaper than a string of private guides and lets you adjust plans on the fly, ensuring your evenings liven with seaside walks and fresh seafood.

Day-by-day plan: taking a driver-led circuit along the coast keeps things simple. The first halt covers Nice, villefrance, and Eze, with the third stop in Monaco for views from the palace and harbor, avoiding tourist crowds. The second day heads west to Antibes and Cannes, with a lunch pause in Juan-les-Pins and a stroll along the promenade. On the third day you can visit small villages above the coast, such as St-Paul-de-Vence and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, then finish with a sunset pass along Cap-Ferrat. If you have a fourth day, loop back via Villefranche’s waterfront for a relaxed finish.

Practical tips to keep it easy: A local driver is a necessary companion for this coast and helps you avoid parking hassles. Typical day rates range from 420 to 560 EUR, depending on season and hours. Book in advance and ask for a route that balances scenic stops with beach time. Keep belongings stored safely, pack light layers, and have a plan B if a shop or market closes early. When you travel, use your phone to save offline maps and tickets so you can share value across the group.

Narrated tips from locals: Local voices narrated by residents highlight the best windows for photography along the Promenade des Anglais and in the old town markets. The tips used by locals help you avoid crowds, point out quiet cafés near the harbor, and show you the moments when the light is best. And they note that a midweek visit often delivers calmer light and shorter lines, especially on the Cap-Ferrat coast.

Staying and packing pointers: For staying, pick boutique guesthouses in villefrance or along the drive; 2–4 nights provide a balanced pace. Staying in Nice extends your dining options and keeps transfers short, while a base in villefrance gives easy access to the coast without heavy fees. When you pack, bring a light jacket for coastal winds and a compact charger for your phone; store backups in the hotel safe, not in the car. dont miss the chance to photograph along the Promenade and by the harbor, and store your best shots on your phone for quick sharing on the go.

Well-paced Riviera itinerary: routing, lodging, transport, and local hacks

Begin this exploration with a concise loop that minimizes backtracking: Nice → Antibes → Cannes → Eze → Monaco, then finish in Nice. This route should feel natural and allow time for stops, as requested by many travelers. It keeps distances short, so everyone can enjoy sights without rushed transfers, and it gives you room for a relaxed lunch or a sunset detour along the coast.

Lodging strategy that balances comfort and money: Base yourself in Nice for your first and last night, then split the middle days between Antibes or Cannes. This arrangement cuts transit time between sights to roughly 20–40 minutes per move, freeing evenings for a long beachfront walk. Midrange rooms typically run 150–250 EUR per night in shoulder seasons; pricey options near the port or old town can hit 300–400 EUR in July. If you book ahead, you lock better rates and a quieter finish. Use trusted websites and guides to compare location, service, and reviews, instead of chasing only the lowest price.

Transport that keeps momentum: Rely on the TER regional network for most hops between Nice, Antibes, Cannes, and Monaco, while local buses handle hill towns such as Eze. Renting a car is usually more costly and slower during high season; a smart mix of train, bus, and occasional taxi or rideshare covers late starts or rain days. Given internet access, download schedules from the official networks, and transmit your plan to a travel buddy so you stay coordinated. For internet access, use cafes with reliable wifi or offline maps from your guides and websites.

Local hacks to save time and enrich the experience: Start mornings at markets in Nice or Antibes to sample fresh fruit and espresso, then take the winding coastal road to Cannes and beyond. Along the way, a short stop near grenouillères can deliver a majestic panorama and a quiet lunch away from tourist crowds; use this as a purposeful break rather than a rush. As the sun fell behind the cliffs, you’ll have ideal light for photos and a calmer mood for the rest of the day. The exploration benefits from a flexible schedule, so you can linger if a small gallery or a street musician deserves a moment. If you have limited data, download a few offline maps from your trusted sources before you travel.

Booking and final checks: Decide your primary purpose–art, beaches, food–and book accommodations 6–8 weeks ahead for peak season to avoid pricey last-minute options. Definitely compare multiple service options and read reviews on money-saving tips and cancellation policies. Use the internet to compare price and location, then finish the plan by reserving rooms on reputable websites and confirming details the day before. This approach gives you a practical, smooth travel experience that respects the country’s pace and your budget.

7-day route optimized for minimal backtracking across Nice, Antibes, Cannes, Monaco, and Eze

Follow the clockwise loop Nice → Eze → Monaco → Antibes → Cannes → Nice for the purposes of minimal backtracking and maximum time at the sites. For a smooth trip, base two nights in Nice to anchor your stay and use the coast’s efficient rail and local buses. If you’re a subscriber, download our printable day-by-day checklist and store it on your device for quick reference. Carlo, a local guide, narrates highlights and tips about when to book tickets and where to stand for the best views.

Day 1: Nice + Eze. Begin with a light sunrise stroll along Promenade des Anglais, then climb to Castle Hill for a near-panoramic view over the bay. In the Old Town, sample socca and stroll the market lanes, then ride a short transfer to Eze village perched above the coast. Wander the narrow lanes to the Jardin Exotique and enjoy incredible cliffside vistas. Return to Nice before sunset for a wonderful dinner near the port; visitors often book a table on the site’s quay to hear local musicians. Staying options near the Old Town are plentiful, and you can store your luggage at your hotel before a late-evening walk along the harbor.

Day 2: Monaco. Take a quick rail ride from Nice to Monaco-Monte Carlo (about 20–25 minutes). Start at the Prince’s Palace for the ceremonial changing of the guard, then explore the Oceanographic Museum, whose exhibits travel through sea life with vivid data displays. Stroll the Casino square and the luxurious vantage points along the harbor, then have lunch at a café with terrace seating offering light, sea-breeze menus. If you plan to gamble or attend a concert, book tickets in advance and check the official site for events. Return to Nice in the late afternoon, noting how the sea breeze keeps evening temperatures comfortable for a stroll along the promenade–money saved on transport can be spent on a memorable dinner near the beach.

Day 3: Antibes. From Nice, hop a morning train to Antibes (roughly 15–25 minutes). Begin with the Picasso Museum in the old fortress and enjoy compact, well-curated rooms narrated by guides who point out the painter’s bridge to Provence. Wander the ramparts of Fort Carré for coastal views, then lunch along Port Vauban where boats rest near chic cafés. In the afternoon, stroll the old town streets and browse shops with glass-front displays, some using boron-containing glass to filter UV–store a few souvenirs if something catches your eye. If you’re visiting during warmer months, the beaches near Antibes offer a quick dip before returning to your base; you can easily spend an hour at the sea and still fit the rest of the day comfortably.

Day 4: Cannes. Take an early train to Cannes to beat crowds. Start with Le Suquet, the old quarter, where you can map out the city’s film-era history and enjoy sweeping views of La Croisette. Walk the famed boulevard for cafés and boutiques, then take a short ferry to the Îles de Lérins for a half-day island visit, including the monastery on Saint-Honorat if tickets are available. In the afternoon, return to the mainland and browse the market stalls along the beach path; many events along the quay occur in the evenings, and you may discover a small party or live music near the port. Cannes parking and public transport are straightforward, making it a light, efficient stop that fits well into your data-backed plan and keeps your day on track even if you linger by the water a little longer.

Day 5: Nice. Return to Nice for a deeper look at the city’s culture and cuisine. Start with the Cours Saleya market to see seasonal produce and flower displays, then visit the MAMAC or the Chagall Museum for a compact, focused art fix. For a beachside lunch, choose a sunlit spot along the Promenade with views of the turquoise water and a breeze that keeps you comfortable even in late afternoon. In the late afternoon, walk back through Vieux Nice to capture the light on the stone facades and to pick up any last-minute gifts at local stores. If you’re keeping track of costs, this day often offers the best balance of free-time and tickets for sites you’ll want to revisit on future trips–store your notes and receipts for easy comparison later.

Day 6: Beaulieu-sur-Mer or Cap-Ferrat detour near Monaco. This day keeps the route efficient by staying near Monaco and Nice while offering a different coastline perspective. Choose Beaulieu and the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat footpath for a short hike with sea views, or return to Eze for a sunset loop if you prefer a shorter transfer. Either option gives you a relaxed pace with time to reflect on the trip and to collect memories that you’ll appreciate when you share stories with friends or fellow visitors. Always check the local event calendars for late-afternoon or evening happenings; if a small party pops up at a harbor bar, it can be the perfect cap to your day, and you’ll have money left to enjoy a special dinner.

Day 7: Departure prep in Nice. Use this final morning to revisit a site you enjoyed earlier, pick up the last souvenirs, and pack your belongings with a clear plan for the journey home. If you’ve kept a travel log or data file, review it to verify times and tickets; many visitors appreciate having a quick summary saved for future trips. From Nice, transfer to the airport or train station with a light schedule that avoids peak traffic; if you visited during a festival or events period, you’ll know the best times to depart and the rooms you should reserve for a future stay. This route keeps you moving efficiently while letting you savor the Riviera’s charm without fatigue, even on a busy week.

Best bases by vibe and budget: Nice vs Antibes vs Cannes vs Monaco

Choose Nice as your base for a balanced mix of value, connectivity, and nightlife. From here the network to Antibes, Cannes, and Monaco is fast and frequent, with light traffic along the coast.

In Nice, budget stays usually range from 90 to 180 EUR per night, with many options in the core and nearby hills. Agencies and rental companies offer 8-seater vans for group trips, and storage is available in most apartments. After a day of exploring, a quick browse (browsing) and a light stroll finish on the Promenade des Anglais can be relaxing, while some hosts even provide grenouillères for younger guests. Everyone notices how easy it is to stay connected on a phone (phone) with local networks and travel guides.

Antibes suits a calmer behaviour and a family-friendly vibe with lower nightly costs, typically 70 to 150 EUR. The rail line and regional buses connect smoothly to Nice and Cannes, making Monte Carlo (monte) reachable for a day trip. Storage options are common in apartment rentals, and local agencies are reliable for last-minute deals. If you shop around, you will find solid value without sacrificing comfort.

Cannes delivers a sun-soaked, glamorous atmosphere and a strong beach scene, with budgets around 120 to 200+ EUR per night. The rail and bus network along the coast is extensive, perfect for day trips to nearby towns. Sightdriving along the coast offers scenic views, and most stays in the Croisette area include easy access to storage for gear and a quick finish to evenings by the sea. Statistics show a higher turnover of mid-range rooms during festival season, so plan ahead if you’re browsing for a deal.

Monaco targets luxury and efficiency, with budgets commonly 180 to 260+ EUR per night. Parking is limited and pricing reflects strict compliance and high security, so many choose public transit or walkable routes. The network is dense, and you’ll find 8-seater options from select rental companies for groups, though storage costs are above average. If you want a turnkey stay, Monaco will deliver a premium experience with excellent phone connectivity and attentive service from local agencies.

Day-by-day breakdown: pacing, travel times, and must-see highlights

Base yourself in Nice and follow a four-day rhythm: Nice core, Grasse/Éze, Antibes, Monaco. This pacing yields a full, exhilarating overview while keeping transit short and comfortable for everyone.

Day 1 – Nice core: Begin with a sunrise stroll along the promenade, then spend 90 minutes in the Old Town (Cours Saleya) to sample markets and a gelato. Add a 45–60 minute climb to Castle Hill for bearings and a full bay view. Schedule a 60-minute lunch by the port, then finish with a 60–90 minute stroll along the harbour to seal the day with sunset light. The city’s visitor service desks near the Old Town can help with bearings and timely tips, and you’ll feel the livening energy of the streets even as crowds thin in the early evening.

Day 2 – Grasse/Éze: Take the 40–50 minute train to Grasse and join a perfume factory tour (factory) for 30–60 minutes to see scent production up close. This data-backed choice helps you compare cheaper options and choose a fragrance you love. Then ride 20–25 minutes to Éze Village and hike the serpentine path to the Exotic Garden for a breathtaking 30–40 minute panorama. Return to Nice by 17:00; guided options are available, enabling a tailored pace for your group, though schedules vary by season. If you want a similar pace with fewer crowds, book the Grasse morning and Éze afternoon block ahead of time.

Day 3 – Antibes & Cap d’Antibes: Train to Antibes in 15–30 minutes; explore the ramparts and Old Town for 2–3 hours, including the Picasso Museum (hours 10:00–18:00). Wander the Provencal market and the marina, then walk the Cap d’Antibes coastal path for 60–90 minutes of turquoise water views and photo stops. For a cheaper option, dine near the harbour area and return to Nice by bus in the late afternoon, keeping travel times under an hour.

Day 4 – Monaco and return: Train to Monaco-Ville in 20–25 minutes. In 2–3 hours, visit the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, and the Monte Carlo Casino district, finishing with a stroll along the harbour to soak up a vibrant, globally inspired scene. If time allows, detour to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin or Cap-Ferrat on the return leg for a final sunrise-like vista. For a tailored pace, request a guided segment with jairo, a local guide whose ability to read crowds helps you hit highlights efficiently. Museum hours generally run 9:30–18:00, with some seasonal variation.

Transport tricks: trains, passes, parking, and driving tips

Get a regional rail pass for the Côte d’Azur online before you arrive; it saves hours and lets you hop between Nice, Antibes, Cannes, and Monaco without buying multiple tickets. If you travel with a friend or subscriber, the pass is appreciated for its incentive enabling easier planning for a flexible trip.

• Trains and passes: The TER/SNCF network serves the coast with frequent options. In peak hours, trains run about every 15–30 minutes; many routes are direct to Antibes, Cannes, Monaco, and Menton. Reserve seats for longer hops; the app shows reserved seating and real-time changes. Your pass is included in the purchase, and guides often list the best day trips without extra hassle. For someone like jairo, this setup makes a simple trip from Nice to the palace towns straightforward, with a clear browsing path through schedules.
• Parking: In Nice and Cannes, use reliable garages near the station or the old town; expect roughly €2–€4 per hour with daily caps around €25–€35 in high season. Park-and-ride lots on the city outskirts reduce inner-city traffic and walking. When you avoid peak afternoon hours, you spend less time circling blocks and more time on the promenade or by the port.
• Driving tips: Choose a compact car to navigate narrow lanes and tight spaces in old towns. Always check tolls (peage) ahead, and consider routes with fewer tolls if you’re touring multiple Riviera towns. Pre-booking a space via the store app works well for weekends; this enabling approach suits family trips and groups with a simple schedule.
• Walking and planning: Use walking segments to connect by train to scenic spots like Villefranche-sur-Mer or Éze; this keeps your day varied and lets you browse guides and local statistics before you move on. The Carlton Cannes is a handy landmark for a lunch break and is within short strolls of the promenade and the country-side viewpoints; from there you can reach Monaco’s palaces by rail or road.
• Extra tips: If your trip includes a party or special event, check the station functions and their ticket-office hours for any late bookings; you’ll appreciate the ability to reserve in advance via the app. This is a handy part of your Riviera plan, and you’ll spend less time hunting for parking or tickets while keeping the journey smooth.

Where to eat like a local: markets, bakeries, and affordable Riviera staples

Start your day at the Cours Saleya Market in Nice Old Town. Which stall you pick, you’ll find sun-warmed tomatoes, Niçoise olives, and herbs perfuming the air. carlo, a vendor at the market entrance, swears by the local olive oil, and jairo stocks fresh thyme along the aisle. Grab a hot socca from a street stand and then walk to Chez Pipo for the iconic Niçoise favorite.

From Nice, take the train to nearby markets along the coast, such as Antibes’ Marché Provençal and Cannes’ Marché Forville. The train is available frequently and the ride delivers views of the sea as you go along the coast. In these nice towns you’ll be walking along the promenade, snack on olives, tapenades, tomatoes, and pepper-studded dishes while strolling the promenade.

Look for boulangeries with lines out the door; grab a warm croissant, pain au chocolat, or a fougasse to take to the quay. For a heartier bite, try panisse or a pan bagnat sandwich. Typical prices run from about two euros to four euros, and you may see price signs in pound at tourist stalls–count on euros for local signage and change.

Affordable Riviera staples that travelers love include socca, pissaladière, panisse, and pan bagnat. In Nice, a quick socca cone or slice pairs perfectly with a slice of country bread and a drizzle of olive oil, while a pan bagnat makes a satisfying picnic when you walk along the harbor.

Plan with websites and the internet: check official tourism sites, local blogs, and market calendars that publish days and hours. They help you map which markets are part of the week and which stalls are the real gems. Your device lets you save addresses, so you can build a practical route as you walk.

As you stroll, the promenade between Nice’s old town and the sea offers easy breaks. Find a chaise on a plaza to savor the views, then return to the streets for more tastings. Along the way you’ll meet locals who point you to offbeat stalls where the long-time vendors keep their recipes alive.

Should you want deeper context, ask for tips in person; locals’ recommendations feel personal and they tend to change with the season. The markets, bakeries, and street bites form a part of the Riviera rhythm, a tasty thread that connects you from one town to the next, from the harbor to the hills, and from the stroll to the train back home.