What's more beautiful, the elegant resorts of the French Riviera or the charming hillside towns of Tuscany in Italy? Well, you can decide after your breathtaking car ride from Florence to Nice!
The stunning coastal road as your travel from Florence to Nice exceeds all your expectations for over 267 miles. The soaring cliffs plunging into the sea, the medieval villages out of a fairytale, and the glitz and glamor are good enough for world-renowned celebrities.
Your adventure begins on the busy avenues of Florence. As you bounce over each cobbled lane and wave goodbye to Renaissance artworks, the land quickly transports into a smooth, sprawling motorway with postcard views from every angle.
The warm wind blowing from the west indicates the fast-approaching baby blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The lush greenery of olive growths, rich vineyards, and dense woodlands ensures you're on the right path. Finally, the palm-tree-lined promenade of Nice's most iconic beach will mark the end of your journey.
On a trip like no other, it's only fitting to travel in style and comfort. If you're ready to make the most of Europe's most lavish road trip, discover our in-depth guide to traveling from Florence to Nice in 2024!
About Nice
After a picturesque journey from Florence to Nice, you'll arrive at the fifth-largest city in France. Nice is the second-most populous center along the French Riviera and second to none for sophisticated energy.
Located 20 miles from the Italian border, its neighbor played a significant role in shaping its past. Also, its position in the lavender-rich region of Provence means that geography played a part in the climate and food scene.
History of Nice
Despite its proximity to Italy, the Greek Empire founded the city of Nice in the 4th century BC. But as the Roman Empire grew, the army recognized its strategic location for trade and conquered the area around 125 BC.
After the fall of Rome, the city continuously switched hands during the Middle Ages, including the Byzantine Empire, the Kingdom of the Lombards, and the Kingdom of Italy. Although the town was beginning to grow, it was still jostling between rulers such as the Kingdom of Sardinia and even Nazi Germany in recent centuries.
### Modern Nice
When Nice was liberated in 1944, it rapidly rose to fame. Celebrities returned to the location where wealthy European aristocrats came to bronze their skin under the sun-kissed Mediterranean sunshine before them.
Today, over 5 million tourists flock to the streets to indulge in laidback ways of life. Although it’s a lively city, the waves caressing the stony beach and the narrow lanes of the old town housing cozy bars encourage you to relax. Its stunning mix of lavish villas and baroque buildings offers the perfect view whenever you kick your feet up!
Language: French
Currency: Euro
Time Zone: GMT+1
Climate: Hot Mediterranean
Plug Types: C and E
Peak tourist season: June to August
From Nice to Florence: Travel Tips
You might not get the chance to appreciate the awe-inspiring car trip from Florence to Nice again. So, take advantage of the venture and use our expert travel tips for your trip in 2024!
Don’t Miss the Scenery
On a journey that experts constantly rate as one of the world's most breathtaking car trips, it would be crazy to overlook the scenery. Sit on the left side of the carriage if you're traveling by public transport. That way, you can admire the vistas as you climb over hilltops and descend just feet from the azure blue waters.
Or opt for a private door-to-door service like Daytrip for 360-degree panoramic views and the opportunity to stop for sightseeing!
### Timing is Crucial
From Florence to Nice, you'll pass by dozens of major cities, endless mountainous terrain, and notorious roadworks that can occur along the Riviera. So, if you don't prioritize the timing, you could lose valuable hours sipping cocktails.
Travel as early as possible to avoid getting stuck in traffic around the larger cities of Florence, Genoa, and Nice between the 7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. rush hours. Nice itself is particularly infamous for traffic jams, with cars sometimes backing up for hours during peak travel times.
### Go Sightseeing
The views along the drive from Florence to Nice are exceptional. But why not take it a step further and explore this famous strip of heaven?
You can recharge at one of Europe's best spa towns, Montecatini Alto, explore the natural phenomenons in the Toirano Caves or unwind at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro en route.
How to Get From Florence to Nice
Since Florence to Nice is such an in-demand journey, it's no surprise that dozens of companies operate between the cities. But before you hand over your well-earned cash, find out how to get from Florence to Nice according to your needs!
Bus from Florence to Nice
If you're traveling Europe on a budget, the bus is the best way to get from Florence to Nice. It's a cheap and reliable service, meaning you don't have to worry about putting together a contingency plan for emergencies.
Bla Bla Car Bus and Flixbus operate on this route, with the latter offering up to six services a day. Buses depart from Villa Costanza and the more centrally located Florence Piazzale Montelungo. Most will arrive at Nice Airport, which is 20 minutes from downtown.
Shortest duration: 5.5 hours
Average journey: 6 hours
Lowest price: €19.99
Average price: €28
First departure: 11:45 a.m.
Last departure: 11:10 p.m.
### Train from Florence to Nice
Locals either love or hate the train from Florence to Nice. The scenic service allows you to explore cities en route. And it can be a comfortable ride, depending on which company you book with.
However, it's not the most convenient mode of transport, as no direct trains connect Florence and Nice. You'll need to change at least once, at the border town of Ventimiglia and possibly before that in Genoa. Since rail strikes are not uncommon in Italy and France, it's also not the most reliable service.
Operators: Traenitalia, Italotreno, SNCF
Fastest journey: 6 hours and 37 minutes
Average duration: 9 hours and 8 minutes
Lowest price ticket: €40
Average price ticket: €46
### Daytrip Private Car from Florence to Nice
What's better than having a private car drift along the Italian Riviera with the wind blowing in your hair and Volare playing in the background?
Hiring a professional driver to concentrate on the road so you can gaze upon the astonishing natural wonders!
You don't have to worry about navigating narrow lanes, crowded settings, or carrying your luggage. Your English-speaking driver will ensure you don't lift a finger. But the best part of this unique experience is going sightseeing on the way. Stop to take a not-so-original photo of you pushing over the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or why not cross another country off your travel list by wandering the chic streets of Monaco?
Seats From: €155
Private door-to-door service in 5 hours, 10 minutes
Complimentary water
Pet friendly
Sanitized vehicles
* Equipped for children or those with limited mobility
Things to Do When You Get to Nice
After a mesmerizing drive from Florence to Nice, you'll be eager to hit the sunbeds and sip a refreshing glass of Ricard. But don't forget to uncover the city's highlights when you're in town!
Climb Castle Hill
If you want to earn yourself a drink, climb to the top of Castle Hill. Along the way, you'll uncover partial ruins of the ancient castle and the majestic waterfall overlooking the city. Once you arrive at the top, watch the sun drop beneath the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea with a glass of your favorite drink.
Our local drivers want to mention that you can take a hidden lift at the east end of the Promenade des Anglais up to the top if you feel like basking in the relaxing vacation spirit!
### Marvel at Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais will be the first photo you find when you do a Google search of Nice, and for good reason. Palm trees line the designated walking trail for almost 4.5 miles from downtown to Nice Airport.
But it's not a pretty sight. There are numerous ways you can stay entertained here. If you want to relax, read a book, and lay on the beach, or if you crave something more thrilling, rent a boat and hit the open water!
### Visit the Musee Matisse
To immerse yourself in the nation's rich art and culture scene, visit the Musee Matisse. You can admire a superb collection of works by the renowned French artist Henri Matisse.
Housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa, the museum showcases the artist's paintings, sculptures, drawings, and personal belongings. It also offers you an insight into Matisse's life and artistic evolution!
### Relax on the Promenade du Paillon
Between visiting museums, climbing hills, and sitting out in the sun for hours along the beach, the Promenade du Paillon is the perfect spot to relax in tranquility. Stone pine and palm trees surround the sprawling park, offering shady benches and patches of grass to take shelter from the sun.
If you're traveling with kids, they'll adore the impressive water features and safe playgrounds. A great way to bond and create long-lasting memories is to savor a picnic in this urban oasis.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Nice?
The French Riviera receives over 300 days of sunshine annually. So you can enjoy its hot Mediterranean climate after traveling from Florence to Nice almost any time of year.
But its popularity among tourists and celebrities means that the streets and transportation networks can be overcrowded in the summer. As a result, spring is the best time to travel.
In the spring, the average daily high temperature is a balmy 72° Fahrenheit, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors from dusk until dawn. In fact, the slightly lower temperatures than in July and August make walking tours and bike rides more pleasant.
Finally, Nice is not a cheap city. But if you travel between March and May, you can take advantage of significant hotel and transportation deals!
The shortest road distance from Florence to Nice is 267 miles, which should take between 5 hours, 10 minutes, and 5 hours and 40 minutes to complete. The season, time of day and weather conditions can all influence the duration of the trip.
As of 2024, no direct trains travel between Italy and Nice. However, there are several daily indirect trains. Since France doesn't allow Italian trains to cross the border, you must transfer to the border town of Ventimiglia before taking a scenic 51-minute train ride to Nice Ville.
There are three ways you can get from Florence to Nice, France, and each has unique advantages. A bus is the cheapest, the train is the most scenic, and Daytrip's private service is the easiest and most convenient way to travel between the cities.
Nice has a vibrant nightlife scene and is considered a safe city during the day and at night. It's also secure for female and solo travelers. Although the city scores 75 on the safety index, you should be vigilant when walking at night and avoid unlit streets and alleys.
Two modes of transportation allow you to travel from Florence to Nice at night. The last Flixbus service between the cities departs at 11:10 p.m. and will arrive at Nice Airport Terminal 1 at 4:50 a.m. Daytrip's flexible schedule allows you to travel whenever you desire. Our door-to-door service also drops you directly at your new address, so you don't have to wander the streets after dark.
The train ride from Florence to Nice is one of the most scenic European journeys. It offers sweeping views of Tuscan rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea along the Italian Riviera. It also runs along a significant portion of the famous Ventimiglia to Cannes line. Be sure to sit on the left side of the train for the best views!
As of 2024, there's no direct flight from Florence to Nice. You can still fly between the cities in 3 to 4 hours with ITA Airways. The company offers an indirect flight with a stopover at Rome Fiumicino. However, the cost, security checks, and airport transfers make flying an unpopular mode of transportation.
沿途参观这些景点
蒙特卡蒂尼阿尔托
Montecatini Alto is an Italian town famous all over the world for its thermal waters and spas. The tiny medieval village offers stunning view of the Tuscan hills. Medieval village with Tuscan views
比萨
Straddling the River Arno, the Italian city of Pisa has much more to offer than its famous Leaning Tower. Ancient city of art
蒙塔莱格罗圣母朝圣地
Overlooking the Italian Riviera, this milky marble basilica offers fantastic views, even for the non-faithful. A Mountaintop Sanctuary
Toirano Caves
As caves go, this one has some spectacular human hand and footprints left in the mud some 25,000 years ago, as well as the cave bear boneyard. Step into history
圣雷莫
Sanremo's most impressive feature is its beautiful stretch of beach lying along Italy's western Mediterranean coast. A Riviera of Fun
摩纳哥
Skyrocketed to fame when Grace Kelly married Prince Ranie III, this seaside city-state is heady with the scent of the sea, and prosperity. Glamour on the Mediterranean
"Alex was a fantastic driver and we were very happy to have a transfer Firenze to Nice at short notice "
Vicki D.
Australia
2024年12月14日
"Arsenie was great and didn’t rush us with our visit to Pisa. He also offered to stopover during the drive to stretch our legs. Helped us with the luggage and locating our apartment too."
ABEL P.
Singapore
2024年11月14日
"Our trip with Ginela from Florence to Nice was great!
On time pick up and very easy drive…Ginela is a wonderful driver, has a beautiful comfortable car and is so friendly
We will definitely book again when next in France."
Karen B.
Australia
2024年5月30日
"Our driver, Claudio, was very professional. He arrived on time for our pickup, he was friendly, and accommodating for our restroom needs."
Judy A.
United States
2023年9月5日
"Our trip was fantastic. Desiré was very friendly and sweet. We made him wait, because one of our members lost their phone under the drapes in our hotel room. He never acted rushed or frustrated. He was extremely professional and allowed us all to relax the whole way to Pisa and then on to Eze. I would recommend Daytrip and Desiré. "
leah w.
United States
2023年7月18日
"We had a wonderful trip with Stefano. He was very gracious and the drive was smooth. The car was super comfortable as well.
We would definitely use you if we’re ever in Italy again. "
Viviane H.
United States
2023年6月25日
"My driver was incredibly kind and helpful! It was a very expensive trip, but we loved feeling secure, and he had some very good suggestions! Even went out of his way to go retrieve my husband’s lost bag at the airport! Hard-working guy with a lovely disposit"
Amy Z.
United States
2023年4月18日
"We had a terrific experience on our day trip. The driver was personable, polite, and enjoyable to spend the day with. Due to strikes and undependable train delays and cancellations in France, scheduling a private driver was a last-minute decision for us. We are so glad we did. Daytrip provided a stress-free and relaxing travel day. The stop-over in Pisa was great and the driver provided terrific recommendations on places to visit once we arrived in Nice. Many thanks.
"
Tracy W.
United States
2022年5月24日
"Thanks for reaching out. We were very pleased with the service. The driver was on time and very professional. He helped us with our bags and checked to make sure the music and temperature in the car was acceptable. This was a very pleasant and relaxing way for us to travel to Nice! I found that booking the trip on line was very easy and appreciated the immediate email confirmation. "
Lawrence J.
United States
2022年4月22日
"It was an amazing experience and Riccardo is awesome.
I’ve already told more than 5 friends about daytrip. It’s an amazing platform.
Wish you guys success. "
Vishal N.
United Arab Emirates
2022年4月5日
"I wanted to let you know that Erik was an exceptional driver.
We were very pleased with MyDayTrip service!"
Nancy P.
United States
2021年12月2日
"Riccardo was a perfect driver. He was careful driving in the rain, always polite and pleasant to be with. If I needed another driver, I would seek out Riccardo. However, we are returning home now.
"
Bonnie H.
Italy
2021年9月5日
"Paolo was great, & the whole trip exceeded our expectations!
He was very professional, friendly, and helpful. I’d recommend your service highly to anyone.
You’re offering a unique service that I think is great."
Robert H.
United States
2018年11月25日
"Driver was so professional and the trip was perfect thank you for changing the driver for us he is very good"
Omran A.
Saudi Arabia
2018年11月14日
"Our driver Ricardo was wonderful! The trip could not have gone any smoother. Such an easy way to travel in comparison to train travel with a multi-generational group. Plus, we were able to have 2 fun stops of sight seeing.
"
Zoe Ellen A.
2018年8月8日
"We very much enjoyed our trip with the driver from Florence to Nice. It was relaxing and easy. We enjoyed not having to run to the airport and deal with security and waiting for a flight. Also, we could take along our groceries from one rented apartment in Florence to our rented apartment in Nice which saved us money.
The driver was very professional and patient with us too. He waited patiently as we took longer at the Toirano Caves than we planned.
In all, we would highly recommend your service and use it again if the opportunity comes up. "
Berni Z.
2018年5月30日
"Giancarlo was absolutely terrific! I would not hesitate for a moment to use your service or him as a driver again.
He was punctual, polite, personable, and most importantly, safe. it was a wonderful trip.
I’ll post as much on Trip Advisor and on your site as soon as the jet lag wears off a bit.
Thank you for inquiring and for your excellent service. I could not be a bigger fan! "
