Excursions From Nice: The Best Day Trips Around Nice

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a stretch of coastline in southeastern France that is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious towns like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. But beyond the glamour and glitz of these popular destinations lies a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

In this article, we’ll explore four lesser-known towns along the French Riviera: Mentone, Antibes, Eze, and Saint Paul de Vence. Each of these towns offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to captivate even the most seasoned traveler.

Mentone: The Lemon Town

Located just 28.5 kilometers north of Nice, Mentone is a charming town that rises on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Its medieval historic center is filled with picturesque streets lined with citrus groves and rare plant greenhouses, making it a haven for nature lovers and horticulturists.

A must-visit attraction in Mentone is the Cocteau Museum, dedicated to the works of Jean Cocteau and featuring a series of interesting and diverse temporary exhibitions. The museum’s collection includes some of Cocteau’s most famous works, such as his iconic design for the set of “La Belle et la Bête.”

Mentone is also home to the stunning Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel, a beautiful baroque church that dates back to the 17th century. The basilica’s intricate stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture and art.

Getting There: Mentone

Mentone is easily accessible by train from Nice, with trains running every 30 minutes and prices starting at €6.00. Alternatively, you can take the bus (Lignes d’Azur) or drive there in under an hour. We recommend taking the train for a comfortable and convenient journey.

Opening Hours and Admission Fees: Mentone

The Cocteau Museum is open from 10:00 to 18:00, Tuesday is closed. Admission prices are €3.00 (adults), €2.25 (students, teachers, families with many members and seniors over 65), €1.50 (professional partners), and free for under-18s.

The Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel is open from 10:00 to 12:00/15:00 to 17:00. Admission is free.

Recommended Cards, Tickets, and Tours: Mentone

If you’re interested in exploring more of the French Riviera, consider taking a guided tour or purchasing a card that grants access to multiple attractions. The Mercati italiani di Sanremo e Tour di Pieno-Giorno di Mentone from Nice is a great option.

Antibes: A Town of Contrasts

Located on the road between Nice and Cannes, Antibes is a charming town that boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Its medieval bastions and fortifications are still intact today, making it a popular destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

One of the town’s most famous landmarks is the Castle Grimaldi, which hosts works by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso. The castle’s gardens are also home to the stunning La Garoupe lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Antibes is also known for its beautiful beaches, which paint a dreamlike landscape with turquoise waters and inlets. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach, surrounded by pine trees and cliffs that seem to stretch up to the sky.

Getting There: Antibes

Antibes is easily accessible by train from Nice, with trains running every 30 minutes and prices starting at €5.00. Alternatively, you can take the Eurocity train or drive there in under 30 minutes.

Opening Hours and Admission Fees: Antibes

The Castle Grimaldi is open from 10:00 to 12:00/14:00 to 18:00, closed on Monday. Admission prices are €8.00 (adults), €6.00 (children). The sculpture “Il Nomade” is always visitable.

Parco Thuret is open from 8:30 to 17:00, closed on Saturday and Sunday. Admission prices are €3.00

Recommended Cards, Tickets, and Tours: Antibes

Consider taking a guided tour or purchasing a card that grants access to multiple attractions. The Tour of the best of the French Riviera from Nice is a great option.

Eze: A Medieval Village in Paradise

Located on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Eze is a small medieval village that is one of the most beautiful destinations on the French Riviera. Its narrow streets are lined with stone houses, colorful shutters, and fragrant exotic gardens.

One of Eze’s most famous attractions is “Un balcon sur l’Azur,” or “A Balcony over the Sea,” a stunning viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape. The viewpoint is located on the highest part of the village and features ancient ruins and a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants.

Eze is also home to some of the most talented artists in France, who come to the village to paint and draw the stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the town’s many art galleries and studios, featuring works by local and international artists.

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Getting There: Eze

Eze is accessible by car or public transport from Nice, with a journey time of around 45 minutes.

Opening Hours and Admission Fees: Eze

The Cocteau Museum is open from 10:00 to 18:00. The Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel is open from 10:00 to 12:00/15:00 to 17:00. Admission prices are free for all visitors.

Recommended Cards, Tickets, and Tours: Eze

Consider purchasing a card that grants access to multiple attractions, or taking a guided tour. The Mercati italiani di Sanremo e Tour di Pieno-Giorno di Mentone from Nice is also available.

Saint Paul de Vence: A Village of Artisans

Located just north of Nice, Saint Paul de Vence is a charming village that is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning views. The village is filled with narrow streets lined with stone houses, colorful shutters, and fragrant herb gardens.

One of the village’s most famous landmarks is the Basilica of Saint Paul, which features stunning stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can explore the basilica and surrounding village, taking in the beautiful scenery and artisanal crafts on display.

Saint Paul de Vence is also home to some of the most talented artisans in France, who come to the village to work with wood, metal, and other materials. Visitors can explore the many art galleries and studios, featuring works by local and international artists.

Getting There: Saint Paul de Vence

Saint Paul de Vence is accessible by car or public transport from Nice, with a journey time of around 20 minutes.

Opening Hours and Admission Fees: Saint Paul de Vence

The Basilica of Saint Paul is open from 10:00 to 12:00/15:00 to 17:00. Admission prices are free.

Recommended Cards, Tickets, and Tours: Saint Paul de Vence

Consider purchasing a card that grants access to multiple attractions, or taking a guided tour. The Tour of the best of the French Riviera from Nice is also available.

In conclusion, the French Riviera offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the charming towns of Mentone and Antibes to the medieval village of Eze and the artisanal village of Saint Paul de Vence, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful stretch of coastline.

So why not come and explore the French Riviera for yourself? With its stunning scenery, rich history, and cultural attractions, it’s a destination that’s sure to captivate even the most seasoned traveler.

Additional Tips and Recommendations:

Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) when prices are lower and the crowds are smaller.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the local cuisine, including fresh seafood, vegetables, and herbs.
Be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense on the French Riviera.
Take a boat tour or rent a boat to explore the coastline and enjoy the stunning views from the water.

Accommodation Options:

There are many accommodation options available in each of the towns we’ve visited. Here are some recommendations:

Mentone: The Hotel Les Remparts is a charming hotel located in the heart of the town, with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the sea.
Antibes: The Hotel La Grande Bastide is a luxurious hotel that offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a beautiful garden and pool.
Eze: The Hotel Le Village is a quaint hotel located in the heart of the village, with cozy rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Saint Paul de Vence: The Hotel Le Mas is a charming hotel located just outside the village, with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the countryside.

Getting Around:

The French Riviera has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a car. Here are some options:

Train: Trains run frequently between Nice and other towns on the French Riviera.
Bus: Buses connect many of the towns and villages along the coastline.
Car rental: There are several car rental companies available at each of the airports and train stations.

Language:

French is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. Here are some useful phrases to know: