Italian Riviera: Day Trips and Tours from Nice

The Italian Riviera is nestled between the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea and the rocky, tree-topped mountains of Italy’s northwest coast. Famed as one of the most picturesque destinations in Europe, this region is filled with enchanting market towns that perfectly encapsulate the region’s charm.

Day trips to the Italian Riviera from Nice are easy to arrange and are a must for anyone spending time in this corner of France.

Here's all you need to know about the Italian Riviera, one of the most exciting day trips from Nice.

How to get to the Italian Riviera from Nice?

The Italian Riviera is located in the Liguria region and stretches 350 kilometers along the northwestern coast of Italy. It begins at the border that separates Italy and France, just over 20 kilometers from Nice.

From Nice to the Italian Riviera by car

It is an easy journey to the Italian Riviera from Nice and follows the coastal road the entire way. Driving time varies depending on which destination you want to visit, but generally ranges from 30 minutes to an hour.

From Nice to the Italian Riviera by public transport

Another option is to make the jaunt to the Italian Riviera by public transportation. You can catch a direct train from Nice to several spots along the coast, including the market towns of San Remo and Bordighera. You can expect a train ride to one of these destinations to last around an hour.

Guided tour to the Italian Riviera from Nice

You can also book a guided excursion to the Italian Riviera and allow your tour operator to arrange transportation. These day trips begin around 8 AM and often offer a complimentary hotel pickup service. You’ll spend 8 hours exploring the scenic area of Italy before returning to Nice in the late afternoon.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each Italian Riviera day trip has its own unique itinerary. However, they all begin with a convenient hotel pickup in the early morning and begin the drive along the coast of the Ligurian Sea.

You’ll usually make a stop at one of the towns just across the Italian border to experience a traditional market. These markets pop up in different towns throughout the week, so your route will be determined by the day you book your excursion for.

Continuing on your Italian Riviera day tour, you’ll head to another of the region’s most captivating villages or towns to explore the classic architecture and feast on local food at your own pace. Once you’ve discovered the delights of the riviera, you’ll slowly make your way back to Nice.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Italian Riviera?

There are several options for Italian Riviera day tours, depending on your travel preferences.

Guided tour to the Italian Riviera from Nice

Setting off from Nice, your Italian Riviera day trip begins with a panoramic drive through the coastal region. Along the way, you’ll stop at either San Remo or Bordighera to stroll through their myriad market stalls and purchase leather goods and unique clothing.

Make your way to the village of Dolceacqua, famed for its Rossese di Dolceacqua wine and historic stone bridge. Here you can explore the town through your tastebuds or take a wander through its charming streets before returning to Nice.

Private tour of the Italian Riviera from Nice

Alternatively, opt for a private day tour of the Italian Riviera for a personalized experience. You’ll travel along the picturesque coastal route that connects Nice with the “Bay of Flowers” in order to reach Ventimiglia.

Here, you’ll roam its historic Old Town, lined with candy-colored buildings, before continuing on to the markets of San Remo to purchase souvenirs from your European vacation.

Crossing the French border on your return to Nice, you’ll stop at the sleepy town of Menton, filled with terracotta roofs and golden-hued homes, for a view across the dazzling city of Monaco.

How much does a day trip to the Italian Riviera from Nice cost?

Group day trips to the Italian Riviera cost approximately €100 per person and include round-trip transportation, as well as a knowledgeable guide.

If you decide to book a private tour, you can expect to pay between €700 and €890 per group. The maximum number of participants differs with each tour, from three to eight persons, making the cost per head between and €110 and €230.

What will you see and do?

On your scenic drive to the Italian Riviera from Nice, you can stop and experience the medieval towns of Ventimiglia and Dolceacqua, and head to San Remo for the famous market.

Ventimiglia

After crossing the French border from Nice, the first town you'll see that belongs to the Italian Riviera is Ventimiglia, cradling both old and new, with the Roa River dividing the town.

On the left side of the river, the modern resort side of the town welcomes visitors at Cala del Forte with its beaches and restaurants. Perching on a hill, the medieval quarter invites history lovers and adventure seekers to hike and discover the remains of the ancient Roman town, with its centuries-old walls and towers.

San Remo

San Remo is a bustling city along the Italian Riviera that has retained its old-world charm. Built in the Middle Ages, San Remo is home to a lively old town, as well as a magnificent Russian Orthodox church and several ancient ruins.

However, the city is most known for its thriving market that takes place every Tuesday and Saturday.

Dolceacqua

The medieval town of Dolceacqua is an idyllic stop on any day trip. Here, admire the worn but characterful buildings, and the iconic stone bridge that was once painted by Claude Monet.

Towering over the town is the Castello di Dolceacqua, which has 900 years of history. Savor the beauty of this town by walking along its cobbled streets.

When is the best time to visit the Italian Riviera?

The best time to plan a day trip to the Italian Riviera is during the shoulder months of April, May, September or October. During these times, you’ll avoid the swarm of summer crowds, while enjoying mild conditions that range from 13 to 24 degrees Celsius.

What other day trips can you do from Nice?

• Eze day trips from Nice
• Day tours to Cannes from Nice
• Day trips from Nice to the French Riviera

Travel tips

• Take a swimsuit and towel with you on your Italian Riviera day trip as there are plenty of places to take a dip.
• If you want to experience the Italian Riviera at its most tranquil, head to the region during January when there are virtually no tourists.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.