Exploring the French Riviera by Train (from Nice, Cannes and Menton)

Published on April 28th, 2025 by Ersilia

The first time I visited the French Riviera, I rented a car. While it was wonderful to explore secluded villages like Tourrettes-sur-Loup and Gourdon, the parking situation was awful! Add in the region’s notorious “sportive” driving style, and you quickly realize you need nerves of steel to navigate those narrow coastal roads.

That’s why on my next trip, I discovered what savvy travelers have known for decades: the train is the best way to explore the Riviera! The regional rail network connects all major spots along the coastline, offering convenience plus spectacular sea views.

To buy your tickets, check either Omio or the ofificial SNCF website.

The secret to maximizing your experience? Choose strategic base towns. By staying in just three locations — Nice, Cannes, and Menton — you can access everything from glitzy Monaco to charming Italian market towns without changing hotels every night. Ready to discover how? Let’s dive in!

Here is a map highlighting all the train stations in the French Rievera, to help you choose a stay close to one of them.

Base #1: Nice — The Perfect Central Hub

Nice serves as an ideal central base with its international airport, excellent train connections, and vibrant atmosphere. Arriving at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, you can take the tram directly to the city center in just 30 minutes. I recommend staying near Nice Ville station for maximum convenience and purchasing a “ZOU!“ card for discounted regional train travel.

Day Trip from Nice to Monaco

Just 20 minutes east of Nice by train, Monaco offers a fascinating day trip. The journey hugs the coastline, offering glimpses of hidden coves before diving through tunnels carved into the mountainside.

Or, if you are looking for a great experience, you can go to Monaco by ferry ! This way you can get the spectacular view at a limited cost.

Start at the Prince’s Palace on “the Rock” and time your visit for the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:55 AM. The nearby Oceanographic Museum, once directed by Jacques Cousteau, is perched dramatically on the cliff edge with impressive marine exhibits.

After lunch, make your way to Monte Carlo to see the famous casino. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the surrounding gardens are worth visiting, with meticulously maintained flower beds framing views of the Mediterranean below.

As evening approaches, watching the sunset over Port Hercule with its collection of mega-yachts is an unforgettable experience before catching the train back to Nice.

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Day Trip from Nice to Antibes

Just 20 minutes west of Nice, ancient walled Antibes offers a perfect contrast to Nice’s urban energy. The 16th-century ramparts provide spectacular views: snow-capped Maritime Alps in the distance, the sparkling Mediterranean below, and ochre rooftops in between.

The Picasso Museum, housed in Château Grimaldi where the artist once lived, is a must visit for those who love art. I visited it, but I was there more for the views over the sea, then the art.

But what I love most about Antibes is its authenticity. Despite being on the glamorous Riviera, it maintains a lived-in feel, especially at the Marché Provençal where locals haggle over fresh produce and artisanal cheeses.

Antibes also offers something rare on the rocky Riviera — sandy beaches! Plage de la Gravette sits right next to the old town walls, perfect for a refreshing swim before heading back to Nice. If you go to Juan les Pins for your beach day and want a sunbed, make sure to call in advance and book one! I was shocked to find out that this is the norm here!

And if you took the train to come here, why not continue the adventure with the little white train? This is a cute way to discover the city!

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Day Trip from Nice to Èze

This medieval eagle’s nest village offers breathtaking views and requires a bit more planning. Take the train to Èze-sur-Mer station (12 minutes from Nice) and then catch the bus up to the hilltop village (or hike the famous Nietzsche Path if you’re feeling energetic).

The village takes to THAT true french vibe, with narrow cobblestone streets winding between ancient stone houses. Mostly, the pictures you see onnline were taken at the Jardin Exotique, perched at the very top at 1,400 feet above sea level. The entrance fee (around 8€) is worth it for the panoramic views — on clear days, you can see all the way to Corsica!

Before leaving, visit the historic Fragonard perfume factory at the base of the village. The free guided tours provide fascinating insights into fragrance creation, a signature industry of the region.

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Day Trip from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer

Just 5 minutes from Nice by train, Villefranche-sur-Mer feels like entering another world. This picture-perfect fishing village wraps around one of the most beautiful natural harbors on the Riviera (when it’s not overcrowded by yachts, but it all depends on your luck).

Wander the narrow streets of the old town, where laundry strung between buildings gives it authentic charm.

Don’t miss the Chapelle Saint-Pierre, decorated by Jean Cocteau with haunting murals depicting local fishermen. My perfect day in Villefranche ends with a swim at Plage des Marinières followed by dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants as the bay glows with golden light.

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Day Trip from Nice to Cap Ferrat

The exclusive peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat makes for a perfect day trip from Nice. Simply take the train to Beaulieu-sur-Mer (10 minutes), then walk 20 minutes or catch bus 81 to the peninsula. Or, even better, walk the coastal path !

Cap Ferrat represents the height of Riviera luxury, with magnificent villas hidden behind high walls. The real treasure, though, is the coastal path that circles the peninsula, offering some of the most spectacular Mediterranean views I’ve experienced anywhere on the coast.

Don’t miss the stunning Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild with its nine themed gardens and impressive art collection. Plan at least for 2 hours on site. IYou can read all about my experience at the villa, here. For a refreshing swim, head to Paloma Beach or Passable Beach with their crystal-clear waters.

The charming village of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat itself centers around a pretty harbor lined with restaurants – perfect for a leisurely lunch before heading back to Nice. This peninsula truly offers the quintessential French Riviera experience in a compact area.

Base #2: Cannes — Glamour and Accessibility

After exploring the central and eastern Riviera from Nice, relocate to Cannes for a few days. Famous for its film festival, Cannes offers an excellent base for discovering the western Riviera while maintaining connections to places around Nice.

The main train station sits just a short walk from La Croisette, the palm-lined promenade. I love starting mornings with coffee at a beachfront café, watching the town wake up before heading off on adventures.

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Day Trip from Cannes to Saint-Tropez (via Saint-Raphaël)

Getting to Saint-Tropez requires more effort but is worth it! Take the train from Cannes to Saint-Raphaël (about 40 minutes), then catch the ferry to Saint-Tropez (approximately 1 hour). The boat journey offers stunning coastal views you can’t see from land.

Or, if you prefer, there is an option to take the ferry from Cannes directly to Saint Tropez, it will just take a bit longer (but then again, those views!!!).

Saint-Tropez surprised me on my first visit. Despite its reputation for glitz, the village maintains a charming, authentic core. The colorful port that attracted artists like Paul Signac still enchants visitors, although fishing boats now share space with luxury yachts!

Wander the narrow streets in the La Ponche quarter to feel the fishing village Saint-Tropez once was. The Musée de l’Annonciade houses an impressive collection of post-impressionist paintings that capture the town’s unique light.

For the best views, climb up to the 16th-century Citadel. The walk is steep but rewarded with panoramic vistas of the bay. By late afternoon, grab a table at a harbor café, order local rosé, and enjoy the parade of beautiful people and boats!

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Day Trip from Cannes to Grasse

The world’s perfume capital sits just 40 minutes from Cannes by train, perched in the hills above the coast. Grasse offers a complete change from the seaside towns, with medieval architecture and nice countryside views.

The historic perfume factories of Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard all offer fascinating free tours where you can learn about the perfume-making process. I’m still using the custom scent I created during a workshop at Molinard — a personalized souvenir that brings back memories with every spritz!

Beyond perfume, Grasse’s old town deserves exploration. The Cathedral Notre-Dame-du-Puy houses several paintings by Rubens and an incredible panoramic view awaits at the town’s highest point. After visiting the International Museum of Perfumery, enjoy lunch in Place aux Aires, a charming square lined with arcades and outdoor cafés.

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Day Trip from Cannes to the Lérins Islands

One of my favorite day trips doesn’t even require a train! The Lérins Islands sit just offshore from Cannes, accessible by a 15-30 minute ferry from the harbor.

Île Sainte-Marguerite is home to the Fort Royal where the mysterious “Man in the Iron Mask” was imprisoned. Walking through his cell, I couldn’t help but wonder about the true identity of this famous prisoner!

But it’s the smaller Île Saint-Honorat that truly captured my heart. Still home to a working monastery where monks have lived since the 5th century, the island offers a tranquility that’s rare on the bustling Riviera. The monks produce excellent wines from their vineyards, which you can taste and purchase.

Both islands feature walking paths through pine forests, leading to peaceful coves with crystal-clear water. I always pack a picnic and swimwear — the beaches here are some of the least crowded on the Côte d’Azur.

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Day Trip from Cannes to Nice

If you didn’t get enough time in Nice during your first base stay, it’s easy to visit as a day trip (see how to see the best sights in one day) from Cannes! The 30-40 minute train ride runs frequently throughout the day.

Focus on attractions you might have missed earlier. The Matisse Museum in the Cimiez neighborhood offers an extensive collection in a beautiful 17th-century villa surrounded by Roman ruins and olive groves.

Do not miss Palais Lascaris, the entrance hall alone is worth the visit, with its stunning pink marbled staircase that reminded me of Villa Ephrussi in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. What makes this museum special is its incredible collection of antique musical instruments.

Finish your day with a sunset climb up Castle Hill for spectacular panoramic views of the Baie des Anges before catching an evening train back to Cannes.

Base #3: Menton — Tranquil Eastern Gateway

For my final Riviera base, I head to Menton. This charming town on the Italian border offers a more relaxed atmosphere along with easy access to both the eastern Riviera and Italian coast.

Known as “the pearl of France,” Menton enjoys the warmest microclimate on the entire French coast, allowing year-round citrus growth. Its colorful old quarter cascades down the hillside to a beautiful beachfront promenade, creating postcard-perfect views from almost any angle.

The train station sits close to the center, making day trips effortless.

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Day Trip from Menton to Italy (Ventimiglia/San Remo)

One exciting aspect of staying in Menton is how easily you can visit Italy! Ventimiglia is just 10 minutes away by train, while elegant San Remo can be reached in about 40 minutes.

I time my visits to Ventimiglia for its famous Friday market, where shoppers flock for deals on everything from fresh produce to leather goods. The market stretches along the seafront, creating a lively atmosphere that engages all senses!

Beyond shopping, Ventimiglia’s medieval upper town deserves exploration, with its narrow alleys, historic cathedral, and impressive botanical gardens at Villa Hanbury.

If time permits, continue to San Remo, often called the “Italian Monte Carlo.” The town’s Belle Époque architecture and palm-lined promenades reflect its history as a winter resort for European aristocracy. Wander through La Pigna, the historic medieval center, before enjoying a proper Italian espresso along Corso Matteotti, the elegant shopping street.

Don’t leave without sampling authentic Italian cuisine! Even the simplest pasta dishes taste better here, where Italian culinary traditions remain strong despite the proximity to France.

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Day Trip from Menton to Monaco

From Menton, Monaco is just a 10-15 minute train ride away, perfect if you didn’t get enough time there when based in Nice.

With more time to explore, visit some of Monaco’s less-known attractions. The exotic Japanese Garden offers a peaceful oasis amidst the urban density, with its authentic design incorporating water features, stone arrangements, and a traditional tea house.

Prince Rainier’s vintage car collection showcases over 100 vehicles, from horse-drawn carriages to Formula 1 racers and rare classic automobiles.

As afternoon progresses, head to Casino Square to witness the parade of exotic cars that circle through daily. Even if you don’t gamble, you can tour parts of the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo before 2 PM for a reasonable fee.

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Day Trip from Menton to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

Sometimes the shortest journeys lead to the most memorable experiences. Roquebrune-Cap-Martin lies just 5 minutes from Menton by train but offers two distinct attractions: a charming medieval village perched on the hillside and a beautiful peninsula with architectural treasures.

The village sits like an eagle’s nest above the sea, its ancient stone houses clustered around a 10th-century castle. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, with breathtaking views around every corner.

Down at sea level, Cap Martin peninsula harbors fascinating modernist architecture. Le Corbusier’s holiday cabin “Le Cabanon” and the nearby E-1027 villa designed by Eileen Gray represent important landmarks in 20th-century architectural history.

The coastal path around the cape offers spectacular views and passes through pine forests and rocky coves perfect for swimming. I once spotted dolphins playing offshore while walking this path — a magical moment I’ll never forget!

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Bonus: The Train des Merveilles – A Mountain Adventure from Nice

While the coastal routes are stunning, one of my favorite rail journeys actually heads inland from Nice into the mountains! The Train des Merveilles (Train of Wonders) runs from Nice to Tende, taking you through perched villages nestled in dramatic valleys.

Important note: Due to track renovation work, the Train des Merveilles will not be running in 2025. A substitute bus service will be in place.

The train climbs from sea level to over 1,000 meters in just two hours, crossing 107 tunnels and viaducts along the way. As you leave Nice behind, the Mediterranean quickly gives way to spectacular mountain scenery, with the train hugging cliff edges that offer breathtaking views into deep gorges below.

What makes this route special are the medieval villages that appear like mirages on mountain ridges. Each stop reveals unique architecture blending Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance influences – a testament to the region’s fascinating history at the crossroads of French and Italian cultures.

Highlights include Sospel with its remarkable 13th-century toll bridge, Breil-sur-Roya and its riverside charm, Saorge clinging dramatically to the mountainside, and Tende, the end of the line and gateway to the Valley of Marvels with its prehistoric rock carvings.

For nature lovers, this journey provides access to the Mercantour National Park with 600km of marked trails. I’ll never forget kayaking through the canyons near Breil-sur-Roya, with towering rock walls on either side and impossibly blue water beneath.

What I love most about the Train des Merveilles is how dramatically different it is from coastal experiences. In just an hour from Nice, you’re transported from Mediterranean beaches to Alpine landscapes, from seaside sophistication to mountain authenticity.

When service resumes after renovations, set aside at least one day for this inland adventure – it showcases a completely different side of the region that many visitors never discover!

Final Thoughts

Exploring the French Riviera by train has transformed how I experience this magnificent coastline. Instead of worrying about parking or navigating winding roads, I’m free to gaze out at the sparkling Mediterranean, spotting hidden coves and charming villages along the way.

The strategy of using three bases — Nice, Cannes, and Menton — allows me to cover the entire Riviera without constantly packing and unpacking. Each base offers its unique atmosphere and easy access to diverse day trips, from glamorous Monaco to authentic Italian markets.

The train journey itself becomes part of the adventure as you travel along one of Europe’s most scenic railway lines. There’s something magical about emerging from a tunnel to find the Mediterranean spreading out before you.

As you plan your own French Riviera rail adventure, balance famous highlights with lesser-known gems, and always leave time to simply sit at a café, order a glass of local rosé, and watch the world go by. After all, embracing “la dolce far niente” (the sweetness of doing nothing) is an essential part of the Mediterranean experience!