The Best Things to Do in Nice and the French Riviera in 48 Hours – And Where to Stay
I spent 48 hours in the South of France recently and found the top things to do in Nice and nearby, and the best places to stay.
I have just returned from a solo trip to the South of France and was amazed at how much I managed to fit into just 48 hours, and how quick and easy it was to get around the different towns. There are so many things to do in Nice and the French Riviera, you could easily spend weeks or even months there. There are plenty of free things to do in Nice if you are travelling on a budget, which makes the city a great choice for any kind of trip.
I planned my solo trip so I could see the highlights in just 48 hours, however if you prefer a more relaxing holiday, I suggest staying for at least four nights. This French Riviera itinerary will still work for you at your own pace.
Best time to travel the French Riviera
Personally, I think the shoulder season is the best time to visit the French Riviera, as you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and milder temperatures, ideally In May/ early June or September/October.
The high season is the summer months of July, and August which are much busier, more expensive, and often uncomfortably hot. Visiting in the shoulder season also makes it easier to get reservations at popular restaurants, explore towns at a slower pace, and enjoy the beaches without the crowds.
Top tip – If you’re not interested in the Monaco Grand Prix (late May) or the Cannes Film Festival (mid-May), it’s best to avoid these weekends, as hotel prices skyrocket and the crowds can be overwhelming.
Travelling to Nice and around the French Riviera
To get from Ireland to the French Riviera you can fly direct from Dublin to Nice International Airport with both Aer Lingus or Ryanair or from Cork with its brand new service starting in May 2026 with Aer Lingus. There are direct flights from many other European cities too.
The public transport system in this region is excellent, with trains, trams, and buses taking you wherever you need to go. I chose a 48-hour travel ticket, which cost €37 and can be purchased at the tram stop outside the airport. It included unlimited access to all trains and trams, even to and from Nice airport.
A tram ticket from the airport to Nice centre costs €10 each way, and the train from Nice to Cannes is also around €10 each way. With the 48-hour ticket, you’ll save money and enjoy unlimited travel within the time frame. Simply hop on and off as you please, without wasting time queuing to buy individual tickets.
Top tip – Don’t forget to validate your ticket as soon as you board your first mode of transport as inspections are very common, and fines are steep, not something you want on your holiday.
Things to do in Nice: Day 1 – Explore Nice & Go West
Start your first day with breakfast at Garden Cafe or Le Passport. Then take the short walk to Place Masséna and then along the Promenade des Anglais towards Castle hill (Colline du Château). Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the coastline, with planes flying overhead, it’s such a picture perfect spot. As you continue walking, you’ll come across the famous “I Love Nice” sign, which is another great photo opportunity.
Next, you should take a short walk to Old Nice for brunch and a bit of sightseeing before the crowds and heat set in. Some of the best things to do in Nice include simply wandering the colourful narrow streets of Old Town. Stroll through the narrow lanes and lively squares, stop by the Marché Aux Fleurs, and enjoy brunch at Maranna or Clay before making your way to Nice Ville station to begin your day 1 adventure.
Top Tip – Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be exploring loads by foot.
Nice – Antibes (20 minutes)
Your first stop is going to be the gorgeous town of Antibes, where you can explore the charming old town with its winding streets, browse the local markets, or visit the impressive Picasso Museum. Stroll along the harbour to admire the luxury yachts at the marina, or if you have enough time head to Millionaires’ Bay for a refreshing swim.
Antibes is also home to several historic forts, offering both history and panoramic views of the coastline. When it’s time for a break, enjoy a coffee at Nomads or Copenhagen Coffee Lab, two local favourites.
Antibes – Cannes (10 minutes)
From Antibes, head back to the train station and make your way to Cannes, famously known for its annual international film festival and beautiful beaches. Stroll along the famous La Croisette, the palm-lined promenade lined with designer boutiques and luxury hotels, or relax on the golden sands.
Wander through Le Suquet, the charming old quarter, with cobbled streets and panoramic views over the bay. Cannes also offers excellent museums, such as the Musée de la Castre, housed in a medieval castle. For a bit of lunch, stop at Carlton Beach Club, New York New York or Le Caveau 30, both perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.
Back to Nice
Time to head back to Nice for some quick shopping or a cocktail before getting ready for dinner. The main street in Nice is lined with great high street shops like Zara, H&M and Sephora. Grab a drink in Movida or Waka bar both across from the beach to relax and people watch after all your exploring.
For dinner, both Babel Babel or Bocca were highly recommended to me, but both were fully booked, so definitely make a reservation a few weeks in advance. The city really comes alive at night, especially around the Old Town, which looks stunning when lit up, and feels very romantic.
Things to do in Nice: Day 2 Go East & Explore Monaco
On day 2 you will need to get up early to fit everything in! Grab some fresh pastries and coffee for breakfast at Bakery by Michel Flori on the way to Nice Ville Station to start your day 2 of exploring.
Nice – Eze (25 minutes)
Take the 25 minute train ride from Nice to Eze village, which was highly recommended to me for my trip, but unfortunately I ran out of time and the weather wasn’t on my side. However, if you’re up early, you can definitely fit it in!
Èze is a charming medieval village perched high above the Mediterranean, located between Nice and Monaco on the French Riviera. At around 429 metres above sea level, it offers spectacular views of the coastline and the Mediterranean sea.
From the train station, you can take a bus or taxi up to the village. Be sure to explore the Jardin Exotique for stunning views and photo opportunities, and wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets lined with stone houses, artisan boutiques, and art galleries. The village’s medieval charm is preserved in every corner, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Eze – Monte Carlo (30 minutes)
No trip to the French Riviera is complete without visiting the iconic Monte Carlo in Monaco, where you can also tick off another country. Expect flashy cars and yachts, millionaires strolling around in luxury designer clothes, and high end luxury shops.
Enjoy some lunch here at Maison Des Pates which serves amazing fresh pasta, then head to the Casino, where James Bond was filmed, and check out the impressive atrium, which is free to enter.
If you’re a Formula 1 fan, don’t miss the grand prix track and the famous hairpin turn. Monte Carlo is a great place to spend an hour or two, but be aware that eating and drinking here is much more expensive than Nice. Apart from the marina and the casino, I didn’t find much else to see or do here.
I did take my passport with me just incase but wasn’t asked to present it on arrival into Monaco.
Top tip – Monaco isn’t part of the EU so roaming Is not always free so try download an eSIM if you need data for Google Maps.
Monte Carlo – Menton (25 minutes)
Next stop is the stunning town of Menton! It’s one of the smaller towns on the French Riviera but definitely worth a visit. The old town is exactly what you imagine when you think of the French Riviera, with pastel-coloured buildings, shuttered windows, and and colourful citrus trees lining the streets.
While in Menton, you can’t miss the famous steps leading up to the Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Climbing the steps is a must, not only for the history and architecture but also for the views once you reach the top.
Menton also isn’t far from the Italian border town of Ventimiglia (11 minute train ride), making it easy to tick another country off your list. Combining the French Riviera with Monaco and Italy is doable over a long weekend – three countries in one trip!
Menton – Villefranche-sur-Mer (35 minutes)
Last stop of the day on your way back to Nice is Villefranche-sur-Mer. While there’s not a huge amount to see here its very peaceful and the streets are so pretty to walk around. Enjoy some dinner at Dry – its right on the harbour and perfect for people watching. Stroll through the old town and find a bar with some live music and sit and enjoy a glass of wine to finish off the night.
If you have extra time on your trip to the French Riviera, consider visiting Saint Paul de Vence, a hidden hilltop village, or the iconic Saint Tropez.
Where To Stay in Nice and the French Riviera
I personally think it’s best to base yourself in Nice, as this is where the main transport links are, plus there are plenty of restaurants, bars and nightlife. You’ll also have the beach, shopping, the old town, and plenty of great sights right on your doorstep. Staying near Nice Ville train station is ideal, as this is where you’ll catch most trains to explore the surrounding towns.
Nice – Hotel Khla Nice ***
Located just a 2-minute walk from Nice-Ville train station, Hotel Khla is a newly refurbished 3-star hotel that combines an unbeatable location with excellent value for money.
Rooms are modern and comfortable, staff are friendly, and you’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants right on the doorstep, making it a great base for exploring Nice and the surrounding Riviera. Check out the great TripAdvisor reviews.
Nice – Hôtel de France, un hôtel AMMI ***
Renovated in 2019, Hôtel de France, an AMMI hotel, is set in the heart of Nice’s Carré d’Or district, just 100 metres from the Promenade des Anglais, a 2 minute walk from the prestigious Negresco Hotel, and 1 km from Place Masséna.
Nice-Ville train station is a 15 minute walk away. This 3-star property has outstanding reviews and is currently ranked the number 4 hotel in Nice on TripAdvisor.
Nice – Mama Shelter ****
The Mama Shelter Hotel is perfect place to stay for a girls trip to Nice – it is a super-trendy hotel in a fabulous location. The hotel is known for its lively atmosphere, playful décor, regular live music, and a buzzing rooftop bar and restaurant, making it as much a social hub as a place to stay. With comfortable rooms and a fun, youthful vibe, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Nice – Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel ****
Hotel Windsor is a stylish jungle-themed art hotel set in a 19th-century building in the heart of Nice. It’s known for its unique mix of contemporary art and tropical garden, complete with a swimming pool that feels like an oasis in the city. The fitness and wellness centre includes a hammam, sauna and massage treatments, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Guests can enjoy cocktails at the lounge bar, relax by the fireplace in winter, or soak up the sun in the lush garden. The hotel is just 500 metres from the beach and the Promenade des Anglais, 950 metres from the Old Town, and 800 metres from Nice-Ville train station, making it a fantastic base for both relaxation and sightseeing.
Nice – Hotel Le Negresco *****
Looking to splurge on a highly rated, luxurious 5-star stay? Ranked the #5 hotel in Nice on TripAdvisor, and one of the most iconic hotels in the South of France, the Hotel Le Negresco overlooks the beach and the Promenade des Anglais. Each room and suite is individually decorated, offering a unique and elegant experience.
The hotel is a 15-minute walk from Nice’s Old Town and Nice-Ville train station. For relaxation, the spa and wellness centre offers a hot tub, jacuzzi, fitness facilities, and massages, all subject to reservation and additional charges.
Villefranche-sur-Mer – Welcome Hotel ***
Want to be close to Nice but stay somewhere quieter? Villefranche-sur-Mer is only 7 minutes from Nice by train and is just as stunning, but without the crowds.
The 4-star Welcome Hotel is just 400 metres from the beach, with a diving club right in front, and its wine bar, Le Wine Pier, has a terrace overlooking the bay, where you can enjoy local wines and cocktails while soaking up the incredible view.
Cannes – Hotel Verlaine ****
The 4-star Hotel Verlaine, featuring elegant Art Deco design, is just 200 metres from the rue d’Antibes shopping street, a short walk from the beaches, and 1 km from the Palais des Festivals. The famous La Croisette and Cannes beaches are only 500 metres away. Guests can unwind at the stylish Arôme Bar and enjoy reduced rates for access to the private CBeach on the Croisette.
For a truly special experience, consider the Martinez Hotel or the Carlton Hotel, both are well worth the splurge for a memorable occasion.
Antibes – Hôtel La Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa ****
Ranked the #3 hotel in Antibes on TripAdvisor, the 4-star Hôtel La Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa enjoys a prime location near the port and the Old Town. The hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
The on-site Sothys spa includes a hammam and a serene winter garden, while massages and beauty treatments are available for the ultimate in relaxation. Stylish rooms, attentive service, and proximity to Antibes’ restaurants, shops, and historic streets make it an ideal choice for a low key luxurious stay.
Menton – Hôtel Riva Art & Spa ****
The 4-star Hôtel Riva Art & Spa is situated 600 Promenade du Soleil, offering stunning sea views and a prime location near the beach. The top-floor spa, features a hammam, a sun terrace, and a range of massage treatments, while guests can enjoy complimentary access to the rooftop hot tub.
The hotel is ideally located for exploring the French Riviera, with Monaco only 10 minutes away by car and Menton train station just 800 metres from the property. Stylish rooms, a serene atmosphere, and the beautiful waterfront setting make it a perfect choice for a relaxing stay in Menton.
Top Tips for visiting Nice and the French Riviera
- Google Maps is your best friend, especially for figuring out transport links and where to get on and off the train.
- Not all beaches are sandy, so bring swim shoes in case you plan to visit a pebble beach.
- Book the best restaurants and beach clubs in advance, particularly during the busy summer months.
- Start your day early to explore towns before the crowds and the midday heat.
- Carry some cash – not every small café or market stall accepts cards.
- Prices for food, drinks, and even sunbeds can vary significantly between towns.
- For food lovers, one of the top things to do in Nice is trying Socca, a traditional chickpea pancake.
- Public beaches are free, but bring your own towel. Private beaches charge for loungers but provide shade, service, and showers.
- The Riviera has a reputation for luxury, but you can still enjoy it on a budget. Cheap local bakeries, free beaches, and wandering the towns are just as memorable as fancy yacht trips and luxurious beach clubs.
I hope my French riviera travel guide with the top things to do in Nice, France helps you plan the best trip to the Côte d’Azur. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices and experiences are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional charge to you.
