Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport

Nice Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE) is the gateway to the French Riviera, located just 6 km southwest of Nice city center directly on the Mediterranean coast. It is France's third busiest airport and serves as a major hub for the Cote d'Azur region, handling over 14 million passengers annually.

The airport has two terminals situated along the seafront:

• Terminal 1: Traditional and flag carriers including Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, and other legacy airlines. Features 25 gates.
• Terminal 2: Low-cost carriers including easyJet, Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Vueling. Features 29 gates and is the newer, larger facility.

The terminals are not connected airside. Connections between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 require exiting security and using the free shuttle bus (5 minutes) or tram (3 minutes, free between airport stops). Walking between terminals takes 15-20 minutes.

A unique feature of Nice Airport is its stunning Mediterranean setting, with runways partially built on reclaimed land extending into the sea. On clear days, you can see the Alps from the terminal buildings.

Nice Airport is located 6 km southwest of Nice city center, with the new tram line providing direct, affordable connections.

Typical travel times:

• Nice city center by tram: 25-30 minutes
• Nice city center by taxi: 15-20 minutes (traffic dependent)
• Monaco: 30-45 minutes by taxi
• Cannes: 30-40 minutes by taxi
• Antibes: 20-25 minutes by taxi

The airport has excellent public transit connections via Tram Line 2, which stops at both terminals and connects directly to Nice city center, the Promenade des Anglais, and the port.

Uber

Uber operates at Nice Airport with pickup at designated areas.

• Pickup location: Follow signs to rideshare area outside arrivals
• Services available: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Green
• Fares to Nice center: EUR 20-35 depending on destination and demand

Taxi

Licensed taxis queue outside both terminal exits. Nice taxis operate on fixed fares to major destinations.

Destination	Fixed Fare	Time
Nice city center	EUR 32-40	15-20 min
Monaco	EUR 90-95	30-45 min
Cannes	EUR 75-85	30-40 min
Antibes	EUR 55-65	20-25 min
Nice train station (Gare SNCF)	EUR 35-40	15-20 min

Tips:

• Fixed fares apply during standard hours; night rates (19:00-07:00) and Sunday/holiday rates may add EUR 5-15
• Receipts are mandatory for fares over EUR 25
• All taxis accept credit cards

Bolt

Bolt (formerly Taxify) also operates in Nice, often with slightly lower fares than Uber.

Tram Line 2

Tram Line 2 is the fastest and cheapest way to reach Nice city center. It replaced the former airport express buses 98 and 99.

Route: Airport Terminal 2 - Airport Terminal 1 - Grand Arenas - Jean Medecin (city center) - Garibaldi - Port Lympia

Key stops:

• Jean Medecin: Main shopping street, city center (25-30 min from airport)
• Place Massena: Central square, old town access
• Port Lympia: Harbor area, ferry terminal

Schedule:

• Frequency: Every 8-9 minutes (peak) / Every 12-15 minutes (off-peak)
• Operating hours: 04:25-01:30 daily
• Travel between airport terminals: Free

Tickets (2025)

Ticket Type	Price	Notes
L'Aero card (airport ticket)	EUR 10	Round-trip, sold at airport
La Carte single journey	EUR 1.70	Requires rechargeable card (not sold at airport)
1-day pass	EUR 7	Unlimited travel
7-day pass	EUR 20	Best value for longer stays

Important: Since 2025, single-use paper tickets are no longer sold for Nice public transit. At the airport, you can only purchase the L'Aero card (EUR 10 return). To pay the cheaper EUR 1.70 fare, you need a rechargeable La Carte, available at the Grand Arenas stop or city center tobacco shops.

Bus to Monaco

Bus 110 connects Nice Airport directly to Monaco.

• Fare: EUR 19 (EUR 33 return)
• Journey time: 45-60 minutes
• Frequency: Approximately hourly
• Stops: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Monaco (multiple stops)

Bus to Cannes

Bus 620 connects Nice Airport to Cannes via the coastal route.

• Fare: EUR 3-8
• Journey time: 45-60 minutes
• Route: Scenic coastal road via Antibes

Nice Airport offers multiple parking options at both terminals with significant discounts for online booking.

Terminal 1 Parking

Facility	Distance	Rate
P1 (Short-term)	1-2 min walk	EUR 5.50/hour, max 2 hours
P2/P3 (Short-term)	3 min walk	First 30 min free (P3)
G1 (Covered)	2 min walk	From EUR 25/day
P4 (Long-term)	5 min walk	From EUR 12/day (online)

Terminal 2 Parking

Facility	Distance	Rate
P5 Au Contact	1 min walk	From EUR 25/day
G2 Securise	Direct access	From EUR 30/day
P6 (Long-term covered)	5 min walk	From EUR 15/day (online)

Budget Options

• P8 Long Term: From EUR 8/day, free shuttle to terminals
• P9 Low Cost: From EUR 6/day, free shuttle to terminals
• Off-site options: Aeropark Riviera from EUR 35/week, Riviera Park from EUR 50/week

Tips:

• Book online at nice.aeroport.fr for up to 40% savings
• Electric vehicle charging available in covered parking areas
• First 10-30 minutes free in short-term lots for drop-offs

Nice Airport offers diverse dining with a focus on Provencal and Mediterranean cuisine.

Terminal 1

Airside (after security):

• La Plage: Upscale restaurant by Chef Thierry Marx, cocktails and refined French cuisine
• Chez Pipo: Nice specialties including socca (chickpea pancake) and pissaladiere. Open 05:00-21:30
• Pan Garni: Nice specialties revisited by Chef Thierry Marx
• Bellota-Bellota: Spanish ham and Iberian tapas

Landside (before security):

• Lobsta: Lobster rolls and seafood, open to non-travelers
• La Tarte Tropezienne: Famous Riviera pastry shop
• Emilie and the Cool Kids: Gourmet sandwiches and coffee
• Joe & The Juice: Healthy juices and sandwiches

Terminal 2

Airside (after security):

• La Paillote: Regional Provencal cuisine with local atmosphere. Open 05:00-21:15
• Bottega: Prosecco bar with Venetian-style cicchetti and Italian wines
• Pokawa: Hawaiian poke bowls
• Natoo: Healthy fast-casual concept
• Starbucks: Located in non-Schengen Zone B

Landside (before security):

• Chez Jean: Only outdoor terrace at T2, fast food and souvenirs
• Jamie's Deli: British chain, fast casual. Open 05:00-21:00
• Saleya: Cafeteria with runway views, balanced meals at reasonable prices
• Bread & Co: Fresh bakery and sandwiches

Both Terminals: Joe & The Juice, Bellota-Bellota

Budget tip: Most restaurants do not open until after 06:00. For early departures, 7-Eleven-style convenience stores offer basic snacks and coffee.

Free unlimited WiFi is available throughout Nice Airport.

Detail	Information
Network name	WiFi Aeroports Cote d'Azur
Registration	Email or social media login
Time limit	Unlimited
Speed	Good for browsing and email; streaming varies

Faster, more reliable WiFi is available in airport lounges.

SIM cards are available at the airport, though options are limited compared to city shops.

Airport Locations

• Relay stores: Basic prepaid SIM options (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2)
• FNAC: Tech retailer with SIM cards
• Tobacco shops: Some carry Lebara and Lycamobile

French Carriers

Provider	Coverage	Notes
Orange	Best coverage	Premium pricing
SFR	Good coverage	Wide availability
Bouygues	Variable	Budget-friendly
Free Mobile	Good in cities	Very competitive pricing

Pricing

Expect to pay EUR 15-30 for a prepaid SIM with 5-10 GB data. All French SIM cards include EU roaming at no extra charge.

Tip: Selection at the airport is limited and lines can be long. Consider purchasing a SIM in Nice city center at an Orange, SFR, or Free Mobile shop for better options and prices. Alternatively, order an eSIM before arrival.

Currency

France uses the Euro (EUR). Monaco also uses the Euro.

ATMs

ATMs (distributeurs automatiques) are located throughout both terminals:

• Terminal 1: Arrivals hall and departures area
• Terminal 2: Arrivals area (directly in front of baggage claim) and departures

ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and most international bank cards. The main bank is Banque Populaire Cote d'Azur.

Currency Exchange

• Travelex and ICE counters in both terminals
• American Express office: Terminal 1 only

Better alternatives:

• Withdraw euros from ATMs using a no-fee debit card
• Use Wise or Revolut for better exchange rates
• France is highly card-friendly; most places accept contactless payment

Tip: Airport exchange rates include significant markups (often 5-10%). Use ATMs or pay by card when possible.

Nice Airport offers duty-free shopping and Provencal specialties reflecting the Cote d'Azur lifestyle.

Duty-Free

• Aelia Duty Free (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2): Main duty-free operator with perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, and tobacco
• Tax-free savings: Up to 30-40% on alcohol and tobacco for non-EU travelers

Provencal Products

• L'Occitane en Provence: Famous Provencal skincare and fragrances
• Maison Herbin: Regional confectionery and candied fruits from Menton
• La Cure Gourmande: Traditional French biscuits and sweets
• Olive oil and lavender products: Various shops offer local specialties

Fashion & Luxury

• Longchamp: French leather goods
• Furla: Italian accessories
• FNAC: Electronics, books, and travel accessories
• Relay: Books, magazines, travel essentials

Tips

• Non-EU residents can claim VAT refunds (20% French VAT) on purchases over EUR 100
• Best shopping selection is airside in Terminal 2
• Provencal lavender products, olive oil, and herbes de Provence make excellent gifts

Nice Airport has limited lounge options compared to larger hubs, with the main Priority Pass lounge in Terminal 2.

Priority Pass Lounges

The Infinity Lounge (Terminal 2, Schengen):

• Location: After duty-free, turn left (Zone A), second floor
• Access: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass
• Hours: 05:30-21:00
• Amenities: Hot and cold buffet, bar, WiFi, comfortable seating
• Notes: Schengen flights only; can get crowded during peak hours

Airline Lounges

Air France Lounge (Terminal 1):

• Location: Terminal 1, after security
• Access: Air France Business Class, Flying Blue Platinum/Gold, SkyTeam Elite Plus
• Hours: Opens based on flight schedules
• Amenities: French cuisine, wine selection, newspapers, WiFi

Credit Card Access

• American Express Platinum: No dedicated Centurion Lounge; use Priority Pass benefit
• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Priority Pass access to The Infinity Lounge

Day Passes

The Infinity Lounge offers walk-in day passes when space permits, typically EUR 35-45. Check availability at the lounge entrance.

At the Airport

Crowne Plaza Nice - Grand Arenas (4-star):

• 1 tram stop from airport (free tram ride)
• 129 rooms, opened 2021
• Restaurant, rooftop fitness center, sauna
• From EUR 125/night

Novotel Nice Arenas Aeroport (4-star):

• Opposite the airport, free 24-hour shuttle
• 131 rooms, outdoor pool
• 7 km from Nice city center
• From EUR 100/night

Novotel Suites Nice Airport (4-star):

• 1 km from airport
• Suite-style rooms (30 sqm) with kitchenette
• Fitness center, terrace with pool
• From EUR 95/night

Budget Options

• Premiere Classe Nice Airport: Budget chain, from EUR 50/night
• B&B Hotel Nice Airport: Near Grand Arenas tram stop, from EUR 65/night

In Nice City Center

For a full Riviera experience, consider staying in Nice:

• Hotel Negresco: Iconic palace hotel on Promenade des Anglais, from EUR 300/night
• NH Nice: Modern 4-star near city center, 45 min by tram from airport, from EUR 120/night

Nice is the heart of the French Riviera (Cote d'Azur), offering stunning Mediterranean beaches, Belle Epoque architecture, world-class cuisine, and easy access to Monaco, Cannes, and the hilltop villages of Provence.

Getting to Key Attractions

Destination	Travel Time	Route
Promenade des Anglais	25 min	Tram Line 2
Vieux Nice (Old Town)	30 min	Tram to Place Massena
Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau)	35 min	Tram + 10 min walk/elevator
Monaco	30-45 min	Taxi or Bus 110
Cannes	35-45 min	Taxi or Bus 620
Antibes	25-30 min	Taxi or train from Nice-Ville
Eze Village	30-40 min	Taxi or bus

Travel Tips

• Promenade des Anglais: The famous seafront walkway is perfect for strolling, cycling, or relaxing on the pebbly beach
• Vieux Nice: Explore the narrow streets, vibrant Cours Saleya market (flowers and produce), and sample socca (chickpea pancake)
• French Riviera Pass: Offers free entry to museums and discounts on activities (1, 2, or 3 days)
• Beaches in Nice are pebbly, not sandy; bring water shoes
• Many shops close for lunch (12:00-14:00) and on Sundays

Layover Recommendations

• 4-hour layover: Too short; stay at the airport
• 6-hour layover: Quick visit to Promenade des Anglais and Old Nice via tram
• 8+ hour layover: Explore Old Nice, Castle Hill viewpoint, lunch at the port

Day Trips from Nice

• Monaco (30 min): Prince's Palace, Monte Carlo Casino, Oceanographic Museum
• Cannes (40 min): La Croisette, old port, film festival glamour
• Eze (30 min): Medieval hilltop village with stunning coastal views
• Saint-Paul-de-Vence (40 min): Artists' village, Fondation Maeght
• Antibes (25 min): Picasso Museum, charming old town, Cap d'Antibes
• Grasse (45 min): Perfume capital of the world, factory tours

Nice Specialties

• Socca: Crispy chickpea pancake, best at Chez Pipo or Cours Saleya market
• Salade Nicoise: The original version with local tuna, anchovies, and olives
• Pissaladiere: Onion tart with anchovies and black olives
• Pan Bagnat: Crusty roll filled with salade nicoise ingredients
• Ratatouille: Provencal vegetable stew
• Rose wine: The Riviera runs on Provencal rose; try Cotes de Provence