Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport
Nice, Alpes-Maritimes, FR · 7 km (4 mi) west of central Nice
Getting to the city
| Mode |
|---|
| Bolt Rideshare |
| Bus 12 Local bus to Nice city |
| Bus 70 Local bus to Nice port |
| Private Transfer Vans Prebooked shuttle |
Insider notes
Estivale is more than an airport eatery; it’s an upscale bite with Riviera flair. Make time for it in Terminal 2.
For faster airport-city transfers, use Tram Line 2 from either terminal; rush hour makes it quicker than cabs.
Beware passport control delays in Terminal 1, notably before UK flights; skip the shopping dawdle and start queuing early.
Welcome
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) offers a unique travel experience, with its location practically on the beach and stunning views of the Riviera. Just 7 km west of central Nice, frequent flyers delight in the approach and runway panoramas, making it feel like an extension of the Côte d’Azur itself. The airport, handling over 15 million passengers annually, efficiently connects both leisure and business travelers to the region.
At a glance
- Annual Passengers: 15.23 million
- Terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2)
- Runways: 2
- Distance from Nice center: 7 km (4 mi)
- Airline Hubs: Air France, easyJet
Terminals & layout
Terminal 1 accommodates airlines such as Air France, British Airways, and Emirates across its 25 gates, while Terminal 2, primarily serving easyJet and Air Corsica, features 29 gates. Terminal 1 is noted for its proximity to the tram exit and its quieter security screening options during peak travel. Terminal 2 aims to please with several Mediterranean-leaning eateries.
Getting to and from the city
The L2 tram provides the most straightforward and cost-effective route into central Nice from both terminals at just $1.70, significantly undercutting taxi fares. For those venturing beyond the city, the Airport Express connects to bus 70 towards Nice port, or travelers can catch the Zou Coaches for direct routes to Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco.
Traveller essentials
The express tram line, frequent buses, and competitively priced parking options such as Parking P8 at €12/day ensure travelers have convenient ground transport choices. Regulars recommend avoiding taxis and looking into parking pre-booking to secure spaces close to terminals, especially during the vibrant summer season.
Dining & shopping highlights
Gourmets will appreciate the quality of airside dining, particularly at Estivale by Bruno Oger in Terminal 2, offering Michelin-level meals. For a taste of local flair, head to La Paillote, which provides an authentic Niçoise dining experience. Fashionistas and souvenir seekers can explore duty-free shops like Aelia in both terminals or grab a last-minute gift from renowned brands like Longchamp and Hermès.
Lounges
Lounges at NCE provide a respite from the holiday hustle, with the Air France Lounge in Terminal 2 gaining special mention for its serene environment. Travelers also highlight the Primeclass Lounges available in both terminals as quieter alternatives to larger lounge networks.
Insider tips
- Insider: Estivale is more than an airport eatery; it’s an upscale bite with Riviera flair. Make time for it in Terminal 2.
- Time: For faster airport-city transfers, use Tram Line 2 from either terminal; rush hour makes it quicker than cabs.
- Avoid: Beware passport control delays in Terminal 1, notably before UK flights; skip the shopping dawdle and start queuing early.
- Quiet: Lounges in Terminal 2 frequently offer peace and reduced crowds – perfect for a calm pre-flight moment.
- Local: Seek out La Paillote in Terminal 2 for authentic Niçoise snacks and a breath of Provençal air pre-flight.
- Money: Pre-book parking to cut costs and guarantee closer entry during high-traffic summer months, especially in P8 and P5.
- Avoid: Terminal 2 suffers security congestion; try quieter lanes near its far end during peak weekends to save time.
- Insider: Choose apron-facing bars for spectacular sea views and superior plane-spotting from both terminals.