Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is the primary airport for the French Riviera and a key travel hub for Southern France. Located 7.6 km from the Nice city center, it is the second busiest airport in France after Paris, offering exceptional connectivity for international and domestic travellers.
Flights and Destinations
- International Flights: Nice Airport serves over 100 destinations worldwide, including major European cities like London, Paris, Rome, and Frankfurt, as well as intercontinental flights to the Middle East, North Africa, and North America.
- Domestic Flights: The airport connects French cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux, making it an essential hub for regional travel.
- Seasonal Routes: During summer, many airlines add routes to holiday destinations across the Mediterranean.
Airport Services
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is equipped with modern amenities designed to make your travel experience as seamless as possible:
- Shopping and Dining: A variety of shops, including luxury boutiques and duty-free stores, are available. Dining options range from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants offering local French cuisine.
- Lounges: VIP lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and Wi-Fi for business or leisure travellers.
- Transportation Services: Rental car counters, taxi stands, and shuttle services are conveniently located near the terminals.
- Wi-Fi and Workspaces: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, with dedicated workspaces for professionals.
- Family-Friendly Facilities: Baby-changing stations and play areas for children.
- Accessibility: The airport is wheelchair-friendly, and assistance services are available upon request.
Operating Hours
Nice Airport operates from early morning until late evening, with Terminal 1 typically open from 4:30 AM to 12:00 AM and Terminal 2 from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Exact timings may vary depending on flight schedules.
Getting to the Airport
- From Nice:
- By Taxi: A 10-15 minute ride from the city center, costing approximately €25-30.
- By Bus: Lignes d’Azur buses (lines 12 and 98) connect the city center to the airport, taking 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Tickets cost around €6.
- By Tram: The Tramway Line 2 provides direct access to the airport from central Nice and the Port area.
- From Other Cities in the French Riviera:
- Cannes: The Express Bus (line 210) connects Cannes and Nice Airport in about 50 minutes. Tickets cost approximately €22.
- Monaco: The Express Bus (line 110) links Monaco to Nice Airport in around 45 minutes for €22.
- Antibes: Buses and trains provide access to the airport within 30-40 minutes.
When to Arrive
- For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
- For international flights, arrive 3 hours before departure to allow enough time for security and passport control.
Tips for Travelers
- Check Traffic Conditions: During peak tourist seasons or significant events (like the Cannes Film Festival or Monaco Grand Prix), traffic can be heavy. Leave extra time to reach the airport.
- Use Online Check-In: Most airlines operating at Nice Airport offer online check-in, saving you time at the airport.
- Pack Smart: Adhere to baggage rules, especially for international flights. Security checks at Nice Airport are thorough.
- Explore Services: If you have a layover, enjoy the airport’s shopping, dining, and relaxing lounge options.
- Consider a Private Transfer: For a seamless experience, private shuttles or chauffeur services are widely available in the region.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is a gateway to the beauty and luxury of the French Riviera. Its excellent connectivity, modern facilities, and strategic location ensure a smooth start or end to your journey.