Transfers Countries France NiceNice to Genoa

Private car transfer from Nice to Genoa

Door-to-door
in 2 h 40 min

From €77
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Nice.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 2 h 40 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Genoa.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

196 km2 h 40 min

Overview: car trip from Nice to Genoa

A glance at the map reveals everything you need to know about this elegant road trip from Nice to Genoa. The 124-mile road glides along the emerald waters, dazzling under the Mediterranean sunshine. Sprawling highways weaving through the soaring cliffs that drop dramatically into the sea provide the perfect viewing platform for admiring these geological wonders.

Even though your journey begins along the sandy shores of Nice's tree-lined promenade, you'll quickly ascend into the surrounding hills. After exiting each looping tunnel, a new surreal image appears in the distance. The most eye-catching scene is how colorful villages clutch to cliffs and manage to maintain steep vineyards stuck upon the ridges.

Almost every city offers the same postcard photo of medieval buildings topped by rustic terracotta roofs. However, you'll know you've reached your final destination in Italy as Genoa's iconic port, sheltering extensive cruise ships, sits just feet from your car window.

There's only one way to travel along the French and Italian Rivieras. In style and comfort! So continue reading our comprehensive Nice to Genoa guide to uncover everything you need to know about embarking on this voyage in 2024!

About Genoa

After your relaxing land cruise from Nice to Genoa, you'll arrive firmly in the La Dolce Vita spirit in Italy's sixth-largest city. Almost 815,000 locals live here within Liguria's most populated urban center.

Genoa sits under the hip of Italy's boot-shaped peninsula along the balmy waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Its location under the Apennine Mountains and along the Entella River was vital for its establishment.

Early Genoa

The Ligures were the first tribe to form a permanent settlement in Genoa. The city, Oppidum, resided on Castello Hill, where the Old Town is today. However, in 218 BC, the Roman army conquered the area and transformed it into a hub for maritime trade and military movements.

It took until the 11th century for Genoa to witness significant urban growth. During this period, the city established the Genoese Republic, stretching as far west as the modern-day border of France. Although it flourished for centuries, growing competition over the trade routes with the newly formed Venetian Republic led to its demise in 1797.

Recent and modern Genoa

Being a port city was the key to unlocking Genoa's rich past, but it was also the reason for its almost complete destruction. During World War II, the Allied forces dropped 80 tons of explosives on the town to neutralize the importance of shipping military goods for the Axis forces. Luckily, proud locals, constructors, and architects helped rebuild its historical walls and extend the city boundaries after the tragic events from 1939 to 1945.

Today, Genoa is a combination of lavish palaces and rustic cobbled lanes. Piazza de Ferrari is the heart of the new town, where Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles decorate the chic white buildings. Yet, the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, crams traditional eateries into cozy stores along the narrow streets. The contrasting nature of this stunning environment makes you feel like you're visiting two cities at once while wandering from idyllic squares to vibrant shopping zones.

Language: Italian
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: GMT+1
Climate: Mediterranean
Plug types: C, F, and L

From Nice to Genoa: travel tips

Not everyone is fortunate enough to travel on a bucket-list adventure from Nice to Genoa. If you are, make the most of this golden opportunity by utilizing our insider travel tips below!

Prioritize comfort

Coastal road trips and comfort go hand in hand. The last thing you want on this scenic journey is to sit for almost 3 hours in an unairconditioned vehicle with noisy passengers and no sea views.

So, opt for a private door-to-door service like Daytrip that offers 360 panoramic vistas and modern conveniences. Or if traveling by public transport, consider spending more for a first-class ticket and extra legroom. Whatever way you travel, remember to sit on the right side for the best views!

Explore sightseeing opportunities

Although 65 million people visit Italy annually, tourists regularly overlook Liguria. However, several captivating landmarks sit en route from Nice to Genoa that you might have yet to hear of.

Roaming the lush gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild will give you an insight into what to expect when you arrive in Genoa's glamorous new town. Or, you can wander the picturesque walkways of Dolceacqua and unwind before entering the melting pot of Genoa's lively energy!

Have a backup plan

Public transportation is a scenic and affordable way to travel from Nice to Genoa. Unfortunately, it's not always the most reliable.

According to the state-owned SNCF French Railway Company, there has been a strike every year in its 72-year existence. Many of these happen during the peak summer period. But whenever you travel, make sure to have a plan B and explore alternative modes of transportation in case of an emergency.

How to get from Nice to Genoa

Everyone traveling from Nice to Genoa will have differing budgets, needs, and preferences. So before handing over your cash, discover which travel method is best for you in 2024!

Buses from Nice to Genoa

The bus is the cheapest way you can travel from Nice to Genoa. So, if you're traveling Europe on a budget, this is the mode of transport for you.

BlaBlaCar Bus and Flixbus are the primary two bus companies operating on this route. The latter offers up to 13 direct daily connections. Most coaches leave from Nice Airport Station, whereas only a handful depart from Nice Vauban Bus Station before arriving at Genoa Fanti Principe Bus Station. Check the timetable and see which is closer to your accommodation before purchasing a ticket.

Cheapest/average price: $10 (€8)/$16 (€15)
Fastest/average duration: 2 hours, 40 minutes; 3 hours, 10 minutes
First/last departure: 1:40 AM-11:25 PM

Trains from Nice to Genoa

The train is a popular way to travel from Nice to Genoa due to its stunning sea and mountain views. The last phase of the journey runs along the Ventimiglia to Cannes route, which experts constantly describe as one of Europe's most beautiful railway journeys.

Since no direct train goes from Nice to Genoa, you first must book a ticket from Nice to Ventimiglia. A pro tip is to purchase one from Nice Saint-Augustin rather than Nice Ville. This way, you'll arrive on board before the herds of locals and tourists fight for a seat on this busy line. After departing to change carriages in Ventimiglia, you can book a ticket online at Trenitalia or the station to Genova Brignole.

Cheapest/average price: $23 (€21)/$28 (€26)
Fastest/average duration: 3 hours, 6 minutes; 4 hours, 12 minutes
First/last departure: 5:40 AM-6:50 PM

Daytrip private car service from Nice to Genoa

Daytrip is the best way to travel from Nice to Genoa if you're searching for speed, comfort, and convenience. Our door-to-door service will sweep you from your hotel in Nice to your new one in Genoa in only 2 hours and 40 minutes. Your driver will handle any luggage, and you'll have peace of mind knowing you don't have to organize cabs to a pickup point or when you arrive in Italy.

But Daytrip isn't your everyday taxi service from A to B. Your professional driver can stop at sights, cities, and other countries en route. Since you'll safely stow your bags in the car trunk, you won't have to search for storage facilities or hurdle suitcases over ancient cobbled roads. Monaco is unquestionably the jewel on this road trip. But you can uncover other gems studded along the coast, such as San Remo, Savona, or the hilltop town of Apricale!

Seats from: $82 (€76)
English-speaking driver
Flexible schedule
Sanitized, smoke-free car
Equipped for pets, kids, or those with limited mobility
24/7 English-speaking customer support
Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!

Things to do when you get to Genoa

Genoa's historic quarter is one of Europe's largest old towns, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, with 42 palaces now completely renovated. But don't get too lost in this neighborhood. This is only one of the numerous highlights after traveling from Nice to Genoa!

Explore the labyrinth of Genoa's Old Town

Since 2006, UNESCO has recognized Genoa's Old Town as a World Heritage Site. The organization preserving history celebrates the area, its exceptional medieval and Renaissance architecture, intricate alleyways, and outstanding examples of an urban ensemble.

Le Strade Nuove is the focal point of the UNESCO status, and Via Garibaldi splits the place down the middle. Today, 42 palaces are fully restored, which you can admire while soaking up the Italian ambiance or sitting at a traditional cafe sipping a coffee. You can also enter their grand settings, as many have been turned into showrooms, including the National Gallery of Palazzo Spinola di Pellicceria and the Museum of Palazzo Reale.

Tour the Aquarium of Genoa

Situated in the old harbor area, the Aquarium of Genoa is one of Europe's largest and most impressive aquatic displays, spanning over 33,000 square feet. It houses various marine life, from sharks and dolphins to penguins and tropical fish.

The aquarium's creative design, featuring underwater viewing tunnels and large tanks, provides a flawless experience. It's the perfect place for traveling as a family or as a marine enthusiast.

Climb the Lighthouse of Genoa

Being a lighthouse, you can anticipate stunning vistas overlooking Genoa's bustling port and the tranquil Mediterranean Sea. What you might not expect is its unique red brick design adorned with the city's coat of arms.

Although this structure has stood since the 1540s, the Genoese Republic built a lighthouse here in the 12th century. Today, you can explore its eerie tunnels and learn about the past of this vital landmark before climbing 250 feet to enjoy the views and refreshing sea breeze.

Visit the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is a distinctive building that you’ll instantly recognize. Its black and white stripes symbolized nobility during the Middle Ages and are a leading factor in why 3 million tourists visiting Genoa come to admire the setting annually.

Its interior is just as impressive as its colossal columns, and its exquisite murals resemble more of a palace than a church. Its black and white trim also continues inside, but luckily, the upbeat energy outside remains outdoors and doesn't spoil the serenity.

When is the best time to visit Genoa?

Winter is the best time to travel from Nice to Genoa if you appreciate quiet streets, low hotel prices, and seasonal weather. Summer is best if you enjoy swimming on nearby beaches and attending outdoor festivals. However, spring is the best time to travel overall.

From the end of March to mid-June, the average daily high temperature is 67° Fahrenheit. This is the ideal climate for getting lost in Old Town's narrow, brick-paved streets, taking cultural walking tours, and participating in outdoor activities. Also, you can enjoy a cappuccino on the terrace and sample the mouth-watering Italian cuisine in the evening without hiding from the baking summer sun.

The lower cost is another significant reason to travel from Nice to Genoa in the spring. Since fewer travelers are in town, hotels, transport firms, excursions, and dining outlets offer attractive deals to entice customers. Due to the fewer tourist crowds, you'll have more freedom to explore and have more time to snap up photos of the blooming flowers around town!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Nice to Genoa

How long is the train from Nice to Genoa?

The average train schedule from Nice to Genoa is 4 hours and 12 minutes. However, some faster trains with Frecciarossa can take as little as 3 hours and 6 minutes. Since no direct trains are available between the two cities, the transfer is where most time can be won or lost.

Is Genoa worth visiting in Italy?

There are several reasons why Genoa, Italy, is worth visiting. Firstly, it's one of the cheapest major cities nationwide. It's also not overrun by tourists, so you have enough breathing space to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Finally, it has a wealth of attractions, so whether you enjoy history, art, culture, or nature, you'll find plenty of things to do here.

Are there cities worth seeing between Nice, France, and Genoa, Italy?

There are countless cities worth seeing between Nice and Genoa. Monaco, the world's second-smallest nation, is a must-visit if you want to add another country to your travel list. San Remo and Savona are colorful and stylish beach resorts en route, and the sleepy towns of Apricale and Dolceacqua offer a break from busy city life.

Is the train ride from Nice to Genoa scenic?

The train ride from Nice to Genoa is arguably the most scenic in southern Europe. In fact, around 30% of the voyage runs along the Cannes-Ventimiglia line, which travel experts describe as one of Europe's most beautiful railway trips. For ocean views, sit on the right-hand side of the carriage, and for mountain sights, sit on the left.

Is there a ferry from Nice to Genoa?

As of 2024, no direct ferry goes from Nice to Genoa. You can take an indirect service with Corsica Ferries, but this is not recommended as it's costly and time-consuming. The journey can take up to 18 hours and costs $150-$200 for a foot passenger. Also, you must check the timetable to ensure you have enough time to transfer boats.

What is the best way to get from Nice to Genoa?

Overall, Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the best way to get from Genoa to Nice. However, public transportation may be better when traveling to Europe on a budget. The train with SNCF and Trenitalia is a more scenic option, and the bus with Flixbus or BlaBlaCar Bus is cheaper.

Visit these sights on the way

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

With whimsical gardens and opulent ornamentation, this stunning villa-turned-art museum offers a fascinating look into the private lives of the super-rich. The Lap of Luxury

Monaco

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

Dolceaqua

The curved bridge over a quiet river, leading to stone houses overlooked by an ancient castle is sure to leave as much an impression on you as it did Monet. Step into a Monet

Apricale

Hugging a knife-edge of hillside, linked by tunnels, alleyways, bridges and terraces, this hidden gem looks like it hasn’t changed in centuries. Clinging to the Old World

Sanremo

Sanremo's most impressive feature is its beautiful stretch of beach lying along Italy's western Mediterranean coast. A Riviera of Fun

Savona

Situated in the Riviera di Ponente on the Mediterranean Sea, Savona boasts culture, tradition, and an elegant medieval center. Liguria’s most overlooked town

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

481 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,600+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.