Nice is home to a wealth of attractions that span across centuries, from modern promenades to historic fortresses and religious monuments. However, the size of this lively city can make it challenging to cram its most iconic landmarks into one day of sightseeing.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour in Nice makes the impossible, possible. Hop aboard and view the city from the seat of a double-decker, simply departing when an attraction catches your attention, and exploring at your own leisure.

Here's all you need to know about hop-on hop-off bus tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Nice.

What are the best hop-on hop-off Nice bus tours? What are their prices?

Nice Le Grand Tour

Nice Le Grand Tour is one of the best hop-on hop-off buses in Nice and enables tourists to visit 12 of the most renowned sites around the city at their own pace.

Route

Beginning at Promenade des Anglais, this Nice hop-on hop-off bus starts its journey weaving along the city streets. The first main stop is the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate — a grand 17th-century religious monument, located on Rossetti Square. You can depart here to explore Nice's Old Town, filled with colorful buildings and artisanal boutiques.

There are a plethora of interesting landmarks to discover in this historic part of the city, including Matisse's house, where the French visual artist lived and worked. You can also wander the Jewish Quarter or enter Palais Lascaris to see a vast collection of over 500 instruments in an opulent aristocratic residence.

From there, the bus continues its route to Port Lympia, the beating heart of the city, where ships dock day and night, delivering goods to the southern stretch of France.

Then, travel out of the city and on to Villefranche-sur-Mer — home to one of the five most beautiful bays in the world. The first stop here is the south side of this township, where you can discover its turquoise waters and bustling port.

Depart at the Villefranche Citadel and explore the charming village's 16th-century fortress, which was built for protection against intruders. It is now home to a theater, as well as a museum that showcases the town's history over several centuries.

Alternatively, stay on board as the bus meanders through the village until it makes a stop in the north part of Villefranche-sur-Mer where you can get lost in its quaint alleys and backstreets.

Then, stop at Ile de Beauté and various points along the Promenade des Anglais. The bus travels into the Gambetta neighborhood, where you can simply press the bell and hop off at the dazzling Russian orthodox cathedral — Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice.

The religious monument is created of lofty turrets and spires in washes of terracotta and teal, forming a beacon in the heart of the city. While this superb building is the main highlight of the neighborhood, you can also take a stroll through its picturesque streets or dip your toes in the Mediterranean.

See the unique architecture of the Nice Post Office or stay seated to head to the southern end of the Promenade des Anglais where this hop-on hop-off bus in Nice ends its route.

Timetable

A hop-on hop-off Nice bus tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and runs hourly from 10 AM to 5 PM every day.

Tickets

You can choose the duration of your hop-on hop-off bus ticket in Nice, depending on the time you have to spare in the city.

1-Day ticket

A 1-day ticket costs €23 per adult aged 12 and over. Children between the ages of 4 and 11 cost €8, and those under 4 travel for free.

2-Day ticket

If you opt for a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus pass in Nice, you may save a substantial amount of money, as adults only pay €26 for the ticket. This is just €3 more than a 1-day pass. Children's tickets also cost €8, the same as a 1-day ticket.

How do hop-on hop-off bus tours in Nice work? What is included?

Hop-on hop-off bus tours in Nice enable you to set your own pace for seeing the city. You can jump on at any of the 12 designated stops, flash your pass and take a seat.

When you see an attraction that catches your eye, simply hop off the bus and explore. Once you're done discovering a landmark, get back on the bus and continue on to the next destination.

This hop-on hop-off bus in Nice includes an audio guide in nine different languages, including English, Spanish and Chinese.

Are hop-on hop-off bus tours included in any city passes?

Nice Le Grand Tour bus excursions are included in the French Riviera Pass, which enables visitors to experience a wealth of attractions and tours for one all-inclusive price. These city passes can save you a small fortune on entrance fees and tickets, and make sightseeing easy and enjoyable.

You can purchase different types of passes, depending on how long you'll be in the city, including those that last 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. Prices start from €28 per adult.

What other sightseeing tours can you do in Nice?

Travel tips

Research Nice before heading off on your vacation and make a note of your must-see attractions. This will ensure you don't miss any bucket list spots while traveling through the city on your hop-on hop-off bus in Nice.
If there are many attractions in the city you wish to see, consider purchasing a French Riviera Pass, which is guaranteed to save you money.
Make the most of your Nice hop-on hop-off bus ticket and spend an entire day exploring the city streets via this transportation.

Hop on Hop off Bus Tours in Nice