Getting Around in Nice: Public and Private Transport Options

How do you move around in Nice safely and efficiently? Explore prices, apps, safety tips and the best ways to travel by tram, bus, taxi or scooter.

Getting around in Nice, France’s fifth-largest city, can be practical and affordable if you know how to navigate the available transport options. The city’s compact layout, Mediterranean climate, and efficient transit system make it easy for visitors to move between the Promenade des Anglais, the Old Town, and the hilltop neighborhoods.

Both public transportation and private options such as taxis, Uber, e-scooters or bicycles are widely available. However, prices, safety, availability, and convenience can vary significantly. This article offers an in-depth look at all forms of transport in Nice, including which apps to download, what tourists should avoid, and how to ensure a safe and cost-effective experience during your stay.

Public transportation in Nice: what’s available and how it works

Lignes d’Azur operates the bus and tram system in Nice. There are three tram lines (L1, L2, L3) and more than 130 bus lines covering Nice and the surrounding Côte d’Azur area.

• Tram Line 1 connects the north and east of the city via the city center.
• Tram Line 2 connects the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport to Port Lympia, passing through the city center underground.
• Tram Line 3 connects western suburbs such as Saint-Isidore to Line 2.

Ticket costs:

• Single ticket: €1.70 (≈ \$1.85)
• 10-ride card: €10 (≈ \$10.90)
• Day pass: €5 (≈ \$5.45)
• 7-day pass: €15 (≈ \$16.35)

Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at tram stops, in Lignes d’Azur agencies, in some tobacconists, and through the Lignes d’Azur Tickets app. Buses don’t accept cash payments unless it’s for a single ticket bought from the driver. You must validate your ticket upon entering the vehicle.

Public transportation runs from around 4:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., with fewer buses at night. Some night services (Noctambus lines) operate until 2:30 a.m.

Is public transport safe in Nice?

Public transport in Nice is generally safe, including at night. Trams are fitted with video surveillance, and ticket inspections are frequent. However, there are a few rules and common-sense precautions:

• Watch your belongings during crowded hours (especially around 8–9 a.m. and 5–7 p.m.)
• Avoid eating or drinking on buses and trams; fines may apply
• Do not forget to validate your ticket—fines can go up to €60 (≈ \$65)
• Be cautious in Gare Thiers and Jean Médecin tram stations at night; pickpocketing incidents have been reported occasionally

Avoid confrontations with inspectors or passengers. French law enforcers wear badges or uniforms; don’t engage with people claiming to sell “tickets” unofficially.

Using bikes and e-scooters in Nice

Nice has a dense network of bike lanes and a growing number of protected tracks. The Vélo Bleu public bike system operates over 175 stations across the city.

• Mechanical bikes: €1.50 per 30 minutes (first 30 minutes free with subscription)
• Electric bikes: €2 per 30 minutes
• Subscription for tourists: €5 for 1 day / €10 for 3 days

You can subscribe via the Vélo Bleu app or at selected terminals. A credit card is required for usage.

Several private scooter providers (Dott, Tier, Lime) also operate in Nice.

• Average cost: €1 to unlock + €0.25 per minute
• Speeds are capped at 20 km/h (12.4 mph) in general and 10 km/h (6.2 mph) in pedestrian zones
• Helmet is recommended though not legally required

Scooters are prohibited on sidewalks. Police may issue fines up to €135 (≈ \$147) for unsafe behavior. Riding at night is allowed but discouraged on busy weekends or during events.

Taxis and ride-hailing services in Nice

Official taxis in Nice are regulated, metered, and easily identifiable with their rooftop signs and license number. They can be hailed on the street, booked at a stand, or by phone.

• Base fare: €4 (≈ \$4.40)
• Rate per kilometer: €1.08 to €2.40 depending on time and day
• Airport to downtown: between €32 and €39 (≈ \$35 to \$43)

Uber operates legally in Nice, and Bolt is also available.

• Uber is generally cheaper than taxis, especially for short trips
• Expect €12–18 (≈ \$13–20) for a ride from the Old Town to the Airport

Drivers may refuse to go outside Nice city limits or during peak hours. Always check estimated wait times and compare fares using apps.

Taxis are reliable for late-night travel, but booking in advance is advised during high season. You can use the Taxi Nice Riviera app to pre-book.

Which transportation option is best for tourists?

• For airport transfers, Tram Line 2 is the cheapest and fastest: €1.70 for a 25-minute ride.
• For short trips, Uber or Bolt can be more flexible than taxis.
• For scenic exploration, rent an e-bike or scooter, especially along the Promenade des Anglais or Colline du Château.
• For daily sightseeing, a 1-day Lignes d’Azur pass at €5 is cost-effective.

For families, public transport is usually the most economical and safe. Solo travelers or couples might prefer bikes or scooters in daylight for flexibility.

Apps to download for getting around Nice

To optimize your movement in Nice, consider downloading these apps before arrival:

• Lignes d’Azur Tickets & Lignes d’Azur Mobile: tram/bus tickets and real-time updates
• Vélo Bleu: rent public bikes and manage your account
• Uber / Bolt: book ride-hailing cars
• Google Maps or Moovit: useful for public transit route planning
• CityMapper: gives comparisons of travel times and fares between all options

These apps allow payment, route planning, and real-time updates, making it easier to adjust plans.

Final recommendations

Nice offers a well-structured transportation system with affordable options for every type of traveler. Public transport is safe, clean, and well-integrated. Avoid using cars due to expensive parking and traffic congestion. Stick to trams, buses, bikes, or ride-hailing for a more relaxed and efficient stay.

Being informed in advance allows visitors to save both time and money and enjoy the city with peace of mind.

XperienceFrance is your travel specialist in France.