Epic climbs, coastal views, the Alps & the Cote d'Azur, welcome to Nice!
Nestled between the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and the dramatic foothills of the Alps, Nice is one of Europe’s most exciting cycling destinations. Whether you’re chasing climbs, exploring vineyards, or cruising coastal roads with sea views, the region offers world-class road and gravel routes just minutes from town. Here’s your complete primer to riding in and around Nice, France — plus the best places to rest your legs after a big day in the saddle.
Nice sits at the crossroad of sea and mountains, so within a short ride you can go from flat coastal spins to steep alpine passes. Locals and visiting pros alike enjoy this mix of terrain and sunshine — it’s no wonder the classics like Paris–Nice finish here each spring.
Food occupies the average cyclist’s consciousness to a greater degree than most ‘normal’ people. Whether you arrive starving at dinner time or need to know the best lunch spot, here’s our top picks of where to eat and drink in Nice. So far we’ve found it impossible to find a bad meal.
The Nice area is home to a number of Michel Star restaurants, why not treat yourself to something extra special?
Now to the important bit, the cycling!
*We are building our collection on routes from our new Nice Cycling Hub – a link to the full collection is coming soon!*
A scenic ride from the perched town of Vence down through country roads into the heart of Nice. Expect rolling terrain and beautiful views over the Bay of Angels.
Distance: ~50 km
Highlights: Vineyards, quiet backroads, coastal descent into Nice.
A classic Côte d’Azur route with a rewarding climb and sweeping descents. Start in Nice, head north through hillside villages, and finish with a fast run back down to the Mediterranean.
Distance: ~64 km
Elevation: ~1600 m
Just a short ride west of Nice, the Corniche d’Or is one of the most gorgeous roads in southern France — winding above turquoise sea and red rock cliffs.
*More coming soon, as well as gravel routes!*
The best way to find your way around on two wheels is to hire a guide. A local guide will know the Nice area inside out and can impart local knowledge you would otherwise not be privy to! The advantage of having someone showing you the way means you can focus on enjoying your surroundings without worrying about taking a wrong turn!
Of course, if you prefer to you can also guide yourself by following a route installed on a device which you can pick up from Eat Sleep Cycle. Or you could simply create your own, hire a bike and just explore!
Whichever way you choose to see Nice by bike you will no doubt fall in love with the smooth roads, abundant climbs and fantastic views that it has to offer!
After a big ride, you’ll want a comfortable base. Here are some great options for cyclists of all styles and budgets:
Good value
A touch of luxury
Another planet!
Le Negresco, an Iconic 5* hotel. “In the heart of the Riviera, there are places one experiences more than describes. Le Negresco is one such place — a dazzling icon, free-spirited and independent, overlooking the endless blue of the Mediterranean. For more than a century, Le Negresco has celebrated art, heritage, and French excellence through a subtle harmony of styles and eras, from the splendour of Versailles to contemporary audacities.”
Whether you’re having a rest day or travelling with a partner who doesn’t cycle there are plenty of things in and around Nice to occupy your time outside of pedalling.
The Beach
The mediterrean is in touching distance.
Wine tasting
There are fabulous vineyards – more coming soon!
Of course, the first part to enjoying Nice is getting here! There are numerous ways to travel to the city, depending on where you are coming from.
Nice Airport
By far the simplest way to get here is to fly direct into Nice. There are great international connections with flights coming in from all over the world. The city centre is a 20 min tram ride from the Airport exit.
Train from London, Paris and other places in Europe
For those from Europe for whom time is not of the essence the option to take a train may be of interest. Most large city stations will service trains to the area, although beware that you may have to make changes along the way if you’re coming with a bike bag and luggage in tow.
Drive from other parts of Europe
Driving is also a good option for European-based visitors, southern France can be reached relatively easily and surprisingly quickly from most of Europe – just watch out for the tolls!
Whatever time of year and in whatever capacity you visit Nice its charms are sure to compel you to return. The sheer number of cyclists who settle in the city are testament to how special it really is for two-wheeled exploring! This cyclists guide to Nice is intended to be an up-to-date guide to our new home-city and we will be updating it regularly with any new recommendations and activities – so be sure to check back!
Nice is much more than a beach destination — it’s a cycling playground with world-class road climbs, hidden gravel tracks, and spectacular Mediterranean views at every turn. Whether you’re here for an easy coastal spin or serious alpine climbing, the region delivers a variety of rides that suit all levels.
If this has got you inspired to travel to Nice then watch this space for our new collection of Nice Cycling Tours.
If you’re planning to travel here and don’t want to worry about bringing a bike then take a look at our rental bikes in Nice for top-quality, fully-serviced road, gravel and pedal assist e-bikes. If you’ve any questions about your possible cycling tour to Nice give us a call now on +34 972 649 131 or contact us online for more info!
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