Nice

Private car transfer
from Florence to Nice

Door-to-door
in 5 h 50 min
From ...
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2024
Excellent
trustpilot-stars

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Florence.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 5 h 50 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 Nice.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
  • 451 km
  • 5 h 50 min

Car Trip From Florence to Nice

What's more beautiful, the elegant resorts of the French Riviera or the charming hillside towns of Tuscany in Italy? Well, you can decide after your breathtaking car ride from Florence to Nice!

The stunning coastal road as your travel from Florence to Nice exceeds all your expectations for over 267 miles. The soaring cliffs plunging into the sea, the medieval villages out of a fairytale, and the glitz and glamor are good enough for world-renowned celebrities.

Your adventure begins on the busy avenues of Florence. As you bounce over each cobbled lane and wave goodbye to Renaissance artworks, the land quickly transports into a smooth, sprawling motorway with postcard views from every angle.

The warm wind blowing from the west indicates the fast-approaching baby blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The lush greenery of olive growths, rich vineyards, and dense woodlands ensures you're on the right path. Finally, the palm-tree-lined promenade of Nice's most iconic beach will mark the end of your journey.

On a trip like no other, it's only fitting to travel in style and comfort. If you're ready to make the most of Europe's most lavish road trip, discover our in-depth guide to traveling from Florence to Nice in 2024!

About Nice

After a picturesque journey from Florence to Nice, you'll arrive at the fifth-largest city in France. Nice is the second-most populous center along the French Riviera and second to none for sophisticated energy.

Located 20 miles from the Italian border, its neighbor played a significant role in shaping its past. Also, its position in the lavender-rich region of Provence means that geography played a part in the climate and food scene.

History of Nice

Despite its proximity to Italy, the Greek Empire founded the city of Nice in the 4th century BC. But as the Roman Empire grew, the army recognized its strategic location for trade and conquered the area around 125 BC.

After the fall of Rome, the city continuously switched hands during the Middle Ages, including the Byzantine Empire, the Kingdom of the Lombards, and the Kingdom of Italy. Although the town was beginning to grow, it was still jostling between rulers such as the Kingdom of Sardinia and even Nazi Germany in recent centuries.

Modern Nice

When Nice was liberated in 1944, it rapidly rose to fame. Celebrities returned to the location where wealthy European aristocrats came to bronze their skin under the sun-kissed Mediterranean sunshine before them.

Today, over 5 million tourists flock to the streets to indulge in laidback ways of life. Although it’s a lively city, the waves caressing the stony beach and the narrow lanes of the old town housing cozy bars encourage you to relax. Its stunning mix of lavish villas and baroque buildings offers the perfect view whenever you kick your feet up!

  • Language: French
  • Currency: Euro
  • Time Zone: GMT+1
  • Climate: Hot Mediterranean
  • Plug Types: C and E
  • Peak tourist season: June to August

From Nice to Florence: Travel Tips

You might not get the chance to appreciate the awe-inspiring car trip from Florence to Nice again. So, take advantage of the venture and use our expert travel tips for your trip in 2024!

Don’t Miss the Scenery

On a journey that experts constantly rate as one of the world's most breathtaking car trips, it would be crazy to overlook the scenery. Sit on the left side of the carriage if you're traveling by public transport. That way, you can admire the vistas as you climb over hilltops and descend just feet from the azure blue waters.

Or opt for a private door-to-door service like Daytrip for 360-degree panoramic views and the opportunity to stop for sightseeing!

Timing is Crucial

From Florence to Nice, you'll pass by dozens of major cities, endless mountainous terrain, and notorious roadworks that can occur along the Riviera. So, if you don't prioritize the timing, you could lose valuable hours sipping cocktails.

Travel as early as possible to avoid getting stuck in traffic around the larger cities of Florence, Genoa, and Nice between the 7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. rush hours. Nice itself is particularly infamous for traffic jams, with cars sometimes backing up for hours during peak travel times.

Go Sightseeing

The views along the drive from Florence to Nice are exceptional. But why not take it a step further and explore this famous strip of heaven?

You can recharge at one of Europe's best spa towns, Montecatini Alto, explore the natural phenomenons in the Toirano Caves or unwind at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro en route.

How to Get From Florence to Nice

Since Florence to Nice is such an in-demand journey, it's no surprise that dozens of companies operate between the cities. But before you hand over your well-earned cash, find out how to get from Florence to Nice according to your needs!

Bus from Florence to Nice

If you're traveling Europe on a budget, the bus is the best way to get from Florence to Nice. It's a cheap and reliable service, meaning you don't have to worry about putting together a contingency plan for emergencies.

Bla Bla Car Bus and Flixbus operate on this route, with the latter offering up to six services a day. Buses depart from Villa Costanza and the more centrally located Florence Piazzale Montelungo. Most will arrive at Nice Airport, which is 20 minutes from downtown.

  • Shortest duration: 5.5 hours
  • Average journey: 6 hours
  • Lowest price: €19.99
  • Average price: €28
  • First departure: 11:45 a.m.
  • Last departure: 11:10 p.m.

Train from Florence to Nice

Locals either love or hate the train from Florence to Nice. The scenic service allows you to explore cities en route. And it can be a comfortable ride, depending on which company you book with.

However, it's not the most convenient mode of transport, as no direct trains connect Florence and Nice. You'll need to change at least once, at the border town of Ventimiglia and possibly before that in Genoa. Since rail strikes are not uncommon in Italy and France, it's also not the most reliable service.

  • Operators: Traenitalia, Italotreno, SNCF
  • Fastest journey: 6 hours and 37 minutes
  • Average duration: 9 hours and 8 minutes
  • Lowest price ticket: €40
  • Average price ticket: €46

Daytrip Private Car from Florence to Nice

What's better than having a private car drift along the Italian Riviera with the wind blowing in your hair and Volare playing in the background?

Hiring a professional driver to concentrate on the road so you can gaze upon the astonishing natural wonders!

You don't have to worry about navigating narrow lanes, crowded settings, or carrying your luggage. Your English-speaking driver will ensure you don't lift a finger. But the best part of this unique experience is going sightseeing on the way. Stop to take a not-so-original photo of you pushing over the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or why not cross another country off your travel list by wandering the chic streets of Monaco?

  • Seats From: €155
  • Private door-to-door service in 5 hours, 10 minutes
  • Complimentary water
  • Pet friendly
  • Sanitized vehicles
  • Equipped for children or those with limited mobility

Things to Do When You Get to Nice

After a mesmerizing drive from Florence to Nice, you'll be eager to hit the sunbeds and sip a refreshing glass of Ricard. But don't forget to uncover the city's highlights when you're in town!

Climb Castle Hill

If you want to earn yourself a drink, climb to the top of Castle Hill. Along the way, you'll uncover partial ruins of the ancient castle and the majestic waterfall overlooking the city. Once you arrive at the top, watch the sun drop beneath the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea with a glass of your favorite drink.

Our local drivers want to mention that you can take a hidden lift at the east end of the Promenade des Anglais up to the top if you feel like basking in the relaxing vacation spirit!

Marvel at Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais will be the first photo you find when you do a Google search of Nice, and for good reason. Palm trees line the designated walking trail for almost 4.5 miles from downtown to Nice Airport.

But it's not a pretty sight. There are numerous ways you can stay entertained here. If you want to relax, read a book, and lay on the beach, or if you crave something more thrilling, rent a boat and hit the open water!

Visit the Musee Matisse

To immerse yourself in the nation's rich art and culture scene, visit the Musee Matisse. You can admire a superb collection of works by the renowned French artist Henri Matisse.

Housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa, the museum showcases the artist's paintings, sculptures, drawings, and personal belongings. It also offers you an insight into Matisse's life and artistic evolution!

Relax on the Promenade du Paillon

Between visiting museums, climbing hills, and sitting out in the sun for hours along the beach, the Promenade du Paillon is the perfect spot to relax in tranquility. Stone pine and palm trees surround the sprawling park, offering shady benches and patches of grass to take shelter from the sun.

If you're traveling with kids, they'll adore the impressive water features and safe playgrounds. A great way to bond and create long-lasting memories is to savor a picnic in this urban oasis.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Nice?

The French Riviera receives over 300 days of sunshine annually. So you can enjoy its hot Mediterranean climate after traveling from Florence to Nice almost any time of year.

But its popularity among tourists and celebrities means that the streets and transportation networks can be overcrowded in the summer. As a result, spring is the best time to travel.

In the spring, the average daily high temperature is a balmy 72° Fahrenheit, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors from dusk until dawn. In fact, the slightly lower temperatures than in July and August make walking tours and bike rides more pleasant.

Finally, Nice is not a cheap city. But if you travel between March and May, you can take advantage of significant hotel and transportation deals!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Florence to Nice

The shortest road distance from Florence to Nice is 267 miles, which should take between 5 hours, 10 minutes, and 5 hours and 40 minutes to complete. The season, time of day and weather conditions can all influence the duration of the trip.
As of 2024, no direct trains travel between Italy and Nice. However, there are several daily indirect trains. Since France doesn't allow Italian trains to cross the border, you must transfer to the border town of Ventimiglia before taking a scenic 51-minute train ride to Nice Ville.
There are three ways you can get from Florence to Nice, France, and each has unique advantages. A bus is the cheapest, the train is the most scenic, and Daytrip's private service is the easiest and most convenient way to travel between the cities.
Nice has a vibrant nightlife scene and is considered a safe city during the day and at night. It's also secure for female and solo travelers. Although the city scores 75 on the safety index, you should be vigilant when walking at night and avoid unlit streets and alleys.
Two modes of transportation allow you to travel from Florence to Nice at night. The last Flixbus service between the cities departs at 11:10 p.m. and will arrive at Nice Airport Terminal 1 at 4:50 a.m. Daytrip's flexible schedule allows you to travel whenever you desire. Our door-to-door service also drops you directly at your new address, so you don't have to wander the streets after dark.
The train ride from Florence to Nice is one of the most scenic European journeys. It offers sweeping views of Tuscan rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea along the Italian Riviera. It also runs along a significant portion of the famous Ventimiglia to Cannes line. Be sure to sit on the left side of the train for the best views!
As of 2024, there's no direct flight from Florence to Nice. You can still fly between the cities in 3 to 4 hours with ITA Airways. The company offers an indirect flight with a stopover at Rome Fiumicino. However, the cost, security checks, and airport transfers make flying an unpopular mode of transportation.

Visit these sights on the way

Montecatini Alto

Montecatini Alto

Montecatini Alto is an Italian town famous all over the world for its thermal waters and spas. The tiny medieval village offers stunning view of the Tuscan hills. Medieval village with Tuscan views 

Pisa

Pisa

Straddling the River Arno, the Italian city of Pisa has much more to offer than its famous Leaning Tower. Ancient city of art 

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro

Overlooking the Italian Riviera, this milky marble basilica offers fantastic views, even for the non-faithful. A Mountaintop Sanctuary 

Toirano Caves

Toirano Caves

As caves go, this one has some spectacular human hand and footprints left in the mud some 25,000 years ago, as well as the cave bear boneyard. Step into history 

Sanremo

Sanremo

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

Monaco

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 

Why people love Daytrip

Tripadvisor logo
4,800+ reviews
  • 570 travelers took this route with us
Nov 9, 2024

Great communication with an actual person! They will take you ANYWHERE, No pre-set routes to choose from!

Last minute plan change and Daytrip was our last resort so I chatted with them and had an immediate response from a real person, best situation ever. Never used Daytrip before but the reviews were incredible so we took the chance and booked a driver at like 11-12pm and by 7am the next morning when we woke, they found us a driver and the driver had already texed us making contact! Very impressed and will definitely use them again. We went from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Tivat, Montenegro.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler James B
Review author image

James B

Nov 9, 2024
Nov 1, 2024

Perfect Transport

Andreas did a great job picking us up from Pireaus Cruise Port and taking us to our rental in Spata. The three of us had been on a long cruise and had 9 pieces of luggage. He arrived in an appropriate vehicle and loaded and unloaded all of it. We are very happy with out decision to book with Daytrip.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler LuckyTraveler01
Review author image

LuckyTraveler01

Nov 1, 2024
Apr 18, 2023

An unexpected highlight to our trip.

We had a terrific experience on our day trip. We hired a driver to transport us from Florence, Italy to Nice, France. We received door-to-door service. The driver was personable, polite, and enjoyable to spend the day with. Due to strikes and undependable train delays and cancellations in France, scheduling a private driver was a last-minute decision for us. We are so glad we did. Daytrip provided a stress-free and relaxing travel day. The stop-over in Pisa was great and the driver provided terrific recommendations on places to visit once we arrived in Nice. Many thanks.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Inspiration765370
Review author image

Inspiration765370

Apr 18, 2023
May 30, 2018

Excellent experience!!!

Had a wonderful day trip from Florence to Nice with Giancarlo. He picked us up at our hotel promptly at 9am in his very clean Mercedes van and off we went. We had scheduled 2 stops to break up the long drive. First in Montecatini Alto, where we grabbed some breakfast and some ceramics to ship home. 2nd stop was to be in Sanremo, but Giancarlo suggested Portofino for lunch instead. We were not disappointed. We had a fantastic meal in a beautiful location. With only one additional stop for some coffee, we made it into Nice around 5pm. Giancarlo could not have been more polite. And he was a very safe driver. I highly recommend him personally and would not hesitate to utilize Day Trip again. Looking forward to our next adventure!

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler SLFam
Review author image

SLFam

May 30, 2018

Vehicle options for this trip

Most popular

sedan

Sedan

Comparable to aVolkswagen Passat
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-3
  • 3x
  • 3x
  • Clean
  • Comfortable
  • Air conditioned
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Child seats
  • Pet friendly
  • Smoke-free
From ... per seatSelect

Best reviews

luxury sedan

Luxury sedan

Comparable to aMercedes Benz E-class
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-2
  • 2x
  • 2x
  • All standard sedan features
  • Luxurious vehicle
  • Chauffeur-style service
  • Extra amenities
From ... per seatSelect

More options

mpv

Compact MPV

Comparable to aVolkswagen Touran
Passengers and luggage
  • 4
  • 4x
  • 4x
From ... per seatSelect
van

Van

Comparable to aMercedes Vito
Passengers and luggage
  • 5-7
  • 7x
  • 7x
From ... per seatSelect

The Daytrip driver advantage

Daytrip driver
  • Local knowledge about the route from Florence to Nice
    Including available sights:
  • English speaking*

    All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.

  • Safety first!

    We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.

World-class customer support

  • Available 24/7
  • Close relationship with drivers
  • Experts on the route from Florence to Nice

Flexible cancellation policy

  • Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
  • Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!

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!

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 13,700+ 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.

We have been featured in

usa-travel logo
forbes logo
huffpost logo
monocle logo
wanderlust logo
aileen logo
World dotted map
Drive with Daytrip
I am a travel agent