Airports Near Nice in the French Riviera: Your Complete Travel Guide
The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year. Known for its beautiful Mediterranean coastline, glamorous cities, luxury resorts, and charming villages, the region is easy to reach thanks to several nearby airports. Whether you are planning a holiday in Nice, Monaco, Cannes, or Saint-Tropez, choosing the right airport can make your journey much easier.
In this guide, we’ll explore the main airports serving the French Riviera and help you decide which one is best for your trip.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport – The Main Gateway to the French Riviera
The most important airport in the region is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE). It is the third busiest airport in France after Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly, and it serves as the main international gateway to the French Riviera.
Located just 7 km from the centre of Nice, the airport sits right on the Mediterranean coast, offering spectacular views during landing and take-off. Many travellers consider it one of the most scenic airport approaches in Europe.
Nice Airport has two terminals and offers flights to more than 100 destinations worldwide, including major cities in the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, Air France, and many others operate regular routes here.
From Nice Airport, it’s easy to reach many of the Riviera’s most famous destinations:
Nice city centre – about 15 minutes by tram or taxi
Monaco – around 30 minutes by car or train
Cannes – about 30–40 minutes
Antibes – about 25 minutes
The airport is very well connected by public transport, including the Nice tram line, buses, taxis, and private transfers.
For most travellers visiting the French Riviera, Nice Airport is the best and most convenient option
Cannes Mandelieu Airport – Private and Business Aviation
Another airport in the region is Cannes Mandelieu Airport, located just west of the city of Cannes. Unlike Nice Airport, this airport mainly serves private jets, business aviation, and charter flights.
It is particularly popular during major events such as the Cannes Film Festival, when celebrities, business leaders, and international guests arrive by private aircraft.
Because it does not handle regular commercial airline flights, most tourists will not use this airport. However, it plays an important role in luxury travel to the French Riviera.
Toulon–Hyères Airport – A Smaller Alternative
Located further west along the Mediterranean coast, Toulon–Hyères Airport is another option for travellers visiting the French Riviera or nearby areas of Provence.
This airport is much smaller than Nice Airport but offers flights to several destinations, particularly within France and parts of Europe. It can be a good choice if you are planning to visit places such as:
Saint-Tropez
Toulon
Hyères
The western part of the Côte d’Azur
However, for most international travellers, Nice Airport remains the easiest and most practical choice.
Monaco Heliport – A Unique Way to Travel
Although Monaco does not have its own airport, it does have the Monaco Heliport, which provides helicopter transfers between Monaco and Nice Airport.
The helicopter flight takes only about 7 minutes and offers incredible aerial views of the coastline. It’s a fast and luxurious way to travel between Monaco and the airport, especially popular with business travellers and luxury tourists.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
For the vast majority of travellers, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the best airport for visiting the French Riviera. It offers the largest number of international flights, excellent transport connections, and quick access to major Riviera destinations.
However, depending on your travel plans:
Nice Airport (NCE) – best overall option for most visitors
Cannes Mandelieu Airport – mainly for private jets and business aviation
Toulon–Hyères Airport – a smaller alternative for western Riviera destinations
Final Thoughts
Travelling to the French Riviera is easier than ever thanks to its well-connected airports and transport infrastructure. Whether you’re arriving for a relaxing beach holiday, a luxury getaway in Monaco, or to explore charming coastal towns, your journey will most likely begin at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, the true gateway to the Côte d’Azur.
Once you arrive, you’ll quickly discover why the French Riviera is one of the most beautiful and iconic destinations in the world.
For more travel tips, destination guides, and inspiration, visit visitfrenchriviera.co.uk and start planning your perfect trip to the Côte d’Azur.