The most beautiful routes for a road trip starting from Nice
What better regions than the French Riviera and the hinterland of Nice for a colourful and intoxicating road trip? Whether you are looking for sunny beaches, historical sites, breathtaking views, or stunning mountain landscapes, you are in the right place.
The French Riviera by campervan
Must-see cities
The list of beautiful cities to discover on a road trip from Nice is very long. Here is our selection of must-sees.
Since your road trip starts in Nice, take some time to discover this city, which truly deserves special attention. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore Old Nice with its picturesque markets, and enjoy an ice cream on the beach before hitting the road.
Heading east from Nice, Monaco, and Menton are essential stops. A visit to Monaco is a must. You’ll likely want to witness the changing of the guard, enjoy the panoramic views from the Prince’s Palace, stroll through the charming streets of the Rock, and perhaps even experience the opulence and extravagance of the Monte Carlo Casino.
Much more relaxing, we then headed to Menton, the city of lemons. This road trip from Nice wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this French gem. Its exotic gardens, colorful architecture, and tranquil beaches make it an ideal place for a relaxing break.
If, upon leaving Nice, you decide instead to head west, you will certainly want to stop in Antibes and Cannes, or even push on to Fréjus and then Saint-Tropez.
In Antibes, here’s a little tip: time your visit to coincide with the opening hours of the Provençal market. Overflowing with colorful local produce, it’s a must-see for lovers of Mediterranean flavors. You can also stroll through the artisan shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes, or treat yourself to a well-deserved break on the fine sandy beaches.
In Cannes, after enjoying some moments of glory on the famous Croisette, take a stroll through the city to soak up its very glamorous and elegant atmosphere.
Depending on your timing and preferences, you could also add the town of Fréjus and its rich historical heritage to the list. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, it’s a true gem. Looking for a lively nightlife, trendy bars, and chic clubs? Then Saint-Tropez is the place to be!
Numerous picturesque villages
As you’ve probably gathered, by stopping in these different cities, your campervan road trip itinerary is already quite full. And yet, there are still so many places left to explore. We recommend punctuating your city stops with breaks in some of these picturesque villages that exude the charm of Provence.
Nestled in the hills, La Turbie offers breathtaking views of Monaco. Don’t miss its 35-meter-high Trophy of Augustus and the Tête de Chien (Dog’s Head) with its unobstructed view of the Mediterranean. The good news is that you don’t need to be a seasoned athlete to enjoy this panorama; a car park is just a 10-minute walk away.
Nearby, the medieval hilltop village of Èze is another must-see. Cobbled streets, exotic gardens, and charming boutiques contribute to the reputation of this little gem on the coast.
As you continue your journey towards Villefranche-sur-Mer, prepare for a touch of charm in this colorful village, so representative of the region. And if time allows, treat yourself to a relaxing break on its picturesque beaches.
You weren’t planning on doing this road trip from Nice without stopping in the world’s perfume capital, were you? A quintessential Provençal village located north of Cannes, Grasse offers delightful walks through its cobbled streets and up to its Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view. And perfume enthusiasts will be thrilled to step inside the historic perfumeries and immerse themselves in their myriad scents, the most famous of which is probably Fragonard.
Continue along the coast westward. For a touch of romance, stop in Port Grimaud to discover why it’s nicknamed the “Venice of Provence.” Further along, head to Bormes-les-Mimosas, known for its flower-filled streets and authentic Provençal atmosphere.
Tips for visiting the French Riviera by motorhome
Exploring the French Riviera by campervan is possible! And even relatively easy.
The first golden rule for renting your campervan: visit our campervan rental agency page in Nce.
As you can imagine, the French Riviera is a popular region, especially in summer. To avoid regretting your road trip as soon as you visit the first town, we highly recommend parking in park-and-ride lots outside of towns and then using public transport to reach points of interest. Ideally, find your parking spot before you set off so you arrive at your destination more relaxed.
For overnight stays, always remember that wild camping is not permitted in France. Therefore, be sure to look for legal spots to stop. To help you find your dream spot in the heart of nature – and legally at the same time – you can use roadsurfer spots. Also consider the Park4night app, which helps you locate areas reserved for motorhomes, or the France Passion network, which allows you to stay with locals on private pitches.
The natural sites of the region
Between towns and villages, you’ll surely crave a bit of nature, right? The region, brimming with natural gems, is perfect for just that. It will be very easy to incorporate these different stops into your road trip itinerary starting from Nice.
Esterel Massif
If you’re passionate about hiking and coastal scenery, the Esterel Massif, located between Cannes and Fréjus, is a must-see. Its trails offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and its hidden coves are ideal for a refreshing swim. A true two-in-one experience.
The Verdon Gorges
Heading further inland, you’ll reach the famous Verdon Gorge. This impressive gorge offers spectacular scenery, perfect for hiking, kayaking, climbing, or simply marveling at the beauty of nature.
Nearby, Lake Sainte-Croix, formed by the Verdon dam, offers opportunities for swimming, water sports, and relaxation amidst unspoiled nature. Picturesque villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie also add a charming Provençal touch to the region.
Mercantour National Park
End your road trip in style by exploring the Valley of Wonders in the Mercantour National Park. Alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and exceptional archaeological treasures await you in this haven of unspoiled nature.
In conclusion, renting a campervan – or motorhome – and embarking on a road trip from Nice will allow you to discover a wide variety of landscapes and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Provence. From the glamour of the French Riviera to the majesty of the Verdon Gorge, each stop holds its own surprises.