In our TravelGlaze airport series, we now explore Nice Côte d’Azur Airport — one of the few airports in the world with a runway that feels like it kisses the Mediterranean Sea. Thanks to its unique seaside location and compact design, arriving here is a gentle and beautiful start to your adventure along the French Riviera.
Both seasoned travelers and first-timers will find Nice Airport easy to navigate. Compared to larger hubs like Schiphol Airport, Nice offers a simpler, more relaxed experience — perfect for setting the tone for your journey.
🌙 A First Evening in Nice
🌙 A First Evening in NiceI arrived in Nice after dark, so I didn’t get the famous sea views from the plane — just a blur of twinkling lights as we landed. Luckily, I had no checked luggage, so I was out of the terminal in minutes. Outside, the tram was already waiting, humming quietly under the streetlamps.
Because I had already downloaded the local transport app and loaded a 10-ride pass, I could hop on and stay seated all the way to the city. It felt smooth and simple — almost too simple, I thought. That feeling changed a bit once I arrived.
Finding my way through the old town’s narrow streets was… an adventure. The GPS bounced around, and I wasn’t always sure which way to turn. But honestly? I didn’t mind at all. The buildings were lit with soft yellow lights, balconies full of plants, and even the wrong turns felt like a little treasure hunt. That first quiet walk, suitcase in tow, became one of my favorite moments. It wasn’t until later that I realised the main shopping street would’ve taken me there directly. Oh well — it was a lovely detour.
First Impressions: What to Expect When You Land
After your plane touches down at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, you’ll arrive in either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. Both terminals are pleasantly compact and easy to navigate — no endless hallways or confusing signs here. Everything feels fresh, bright, and welcoming, much like the Riviera itself.
🌟 TravelGlaze Tip:
Near Terminal 1, you’ll find the cheerful “I Love Nice” sign — a popular spot for that first sunny selfie.
I must admit, I completely forgot to snap a picture there (travel excitement got the best of me!).
Luckily, there’s a second chance: you can find another “I Love Nice” sign at the top of Colline du Château (Castle Hill), a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the city and the sparkling sea.
Getting Into Town: Tram Line 2 Makes It Easy
Forget expensive taxis or complicated bus rides. At Nice Airport, Tram Line 2 is your best friend.
Terminal 1: Just exit at A0.
Terminal 2: Head between exits A2 and A3.
Trams run about every 8 minutes, and in just 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Jean Médecin station — right in the lively heart of Nice.
🌟 TravelGlaze Tip: Here’s a tiny secret I wish I knew on my first visit: If you buy a tram ticket at the airport, you’ll mostly find the €10 “Carte Aéro” for a round trip. It’s fine, but…
👉 If you plan to use public transport more often during your stay (and you should, because it’s great), it’s smarter to:
Take the free tram to Grand Arénas (the next stop).
Buy a €2 rechargeable card there.
Load it with cheaper single rides, day passes, or multi-trip options.
Single ride: €1.70
Unlimited day pass: €5.00
Little savings like these add up — maybe enough for an extra gelato later!
A Nature Break: Parc Phoenix
If your schedule is a bit flexible, consider stopping by Parc Phoenix — just across from Terminal 1. This peaceful park combines a botanical garden and a small zoo, offering a quiet green escape right next to the airport. 
It’s surprisingly lush, with walking paths, ponds, and a striking glass pyramid filled with tropical plants. I spent a relaxed hour wandering through the gardens, enjoying the fresh air and the sound of the fountains — a welcome break after the travel bustle.
🌳 Practical Info:
Location: Directly opposite Terminal 1 (easy to reach on foot).
Opening hours: Usually from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (may vary by season).
Entrance fee: Around €5 for adults; children under 12 often enter for free.
Facilities: Restrooms, a small café, and shaded seating areas.
Fancy a Walk? Promenade des Anglais Awaits
Feeling energetic after your flight? You can actually walk from the airport to downtown Nice!
Follow the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a wide seaside boulevard lined with palm trees and blue chairs, inviting you to sit and soak in the views. The walk takes about an hour, depending on your pace — and how often you stop for photos of the shimmering sea.
🏖️ Fun fact: The Promenade is named after the English aristocrats who loved wintering here in the 19th century!
Departing from Nice Airport: Things to Know
When it’s time to say au revoir to the French Riviera, it’s good to know that Nice Airport keeps things fairly compact — especially in Terminal 2, where the gates are close together.
It’s easy to end up at the wrong gate if you’re not paying close attention (I found myself comfortably waiting in the wrong spot for a while!).
Make sure to double-check the flight screens and your boarding pass early, so you can adjust calmly if needed.
Allowing yourself a little extra time also means you can enjoy a relaxed coffee or browse the small shops — perhaps for a jar of lavender honey or a postcard to remember your sunny stay.
🧳 TravelGlaze Tips Recap
Smooth City Transfer: Take Tram Line 2 straight from the airport.
Ticket Hack: Buy your public transport card at Grand Arénas for better deals.
Relaxation Option: Visit Parc Phoenix for a serene pause in nature.
Walking Adventure: Enjoy a scenic walk into Nice via the Promenade des Anglais.
Departure Reminder: Allow extra time at the airport for a stress-free goodbye.
Final Thoughts: Extra Comfort and Last-Minute Discoveries at Nice Airport
Before you leave Nice Côte d’Azur Airport behind, there are a few more ways to make your time here even smoother.
If you arrive early, Terminal 2 offers a surprising variety of shops and cafés — from small souvenir boutiques to quick bites at Jamie’s Deli or Joe & The Juice. Perfect for picking up a little gift or enjoying one last espresso before your flight.
Looking for more peace and quiet? The Infinity VIP Lounge in Terminal 2 provides a calm space to relax, with Wi-Fi, snacks, and comfortable seating — a good option if you have a long wait ahead.
For onward travel, besides the tram into Nice city, you can also easily reach the nearby Nice-Saint-Augustin train station, just a short walk from Terminal 1. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available too, with typical rides into the city costing around €30.
No matter how your journey continues, a little extra planning at Nice Airport can turn your transition into a relaxed and easy part of your adventure.
✨ Safe travels, and wander with wonder!
Other airports you might like? Check out the blog about Schiphol- Amsterdam
Or read about the Nice itinerary, the comfortable way.
