Travelling to the French Riviera by Train

Taking the train is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach the French Riviera. High-speed services connect major French cities to the Côte d’Azur, and regional TER trains make it simple to hop between coastal towns like Nice, Antibes, Cannes, Monaco and Menton.

If you want a stress-free arrival without toll roads, parking or summer traffic, travelling by train is often the smartest option — especially for budget travel and short stays.

Main Train Stations on the French Riviera

Nice-Ville (Nice)

• Main station in Nice and the best base for exploring the coast
• Direct connections to Paris and major French cities
• Easy onward travel to Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Menton

Cannes Station

• Central location, walkable to the beach and old port
• Excellent TER connections along the coast

Antibes Station

• Very convenient for Antibes old town and nearby beaches
• Fast TER links to Nice and Cannes

Monaco–Monte-Carlo Station

• Easy access to Monaco’s centre (station is built into the hillside)
• Regular trains from Nice and Menton

High-Speed Trains (TGV / Intercités)

For most travellers, the fastest route is a high-speed train to Nice. Popular examples:

• Paris → Nice (TGV/Intercités): approx. 5h 30m – 6h 30m
• Lyon → Nice: approx. 4h 30m – 5h
• Marseille → Nice: approx. 2h 30m – 3h

Tip: booking early usually gives the best prices, especially for summer travel.

Coastal Trains (TER): The Best Way to Explore

Once you arrive, regional TER trains are ideal for day trips. They run frequently along the coastline and stop in the most useful towns for visitors.

The most popular coastal route is: Nice → Monaco → Menton and Nice → Antibes → Cannes. Travel times are short, tickets are affordable, and the views can be spectacular.

Coming from Italy by Train

If you’re travelling from Italy, the French Riviera is very easy to reach by rail. The coastal line connects towns near the border, with regular services between Ventimiglia and Nice, continuing to Cannes and beyond.

• Ventimiglia → Nice: approx. 40–55 minutes
• Ventimiglia → Monaco: approx. 20–30 minutes
• Genoa → Ventimiglia: often around 2–3 hours (varies by service)

Budget Tips for Train Travel

• Book long-distance tickets early for lower fares
• Use TER trains for cheap coastal day trips
• Travel outside peak hours when possible
• Stay in Nice as a base and explore by train
• Carry water/snacks — station cafés can be pricey

Best Time to Travel by Train

• April – June: comfortable weather and fewer crowds
• September – October: great value and warm days
• July – August: busiest season — book trains early
• Winter: quieter, often cheaper, still beautiful for coastal breaks

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best base for train travel on the Riviera?

Nice is usually the best base thanks to frequent connections in both directions along the coast.

Can you explore the Riviera without a car?

Yes. Coastal TER trains and local public transport make it easy to visit major towns and beaches without driving.

Is the train cheaper than renting a car?

For short stays and city-to-city travel, trains are often cheaper than car rental, fuel, tolls and parking — especially in summer.