How to Get Around Nice Like a Local

Moving around Nice doesn’t have to be confusing or expensive. If you want to experience the city like a local, it’s all about using the right transport at the right time. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the Old Town, or a rooftop bar at sunset, here’s how to get around Nice easily and affordably.

Use the tram like a Niçois

Nice’s tram system is clean, modern, and extremely efficient. Line 1 takes you through the city center and Old Town. Line 2 connects the airport to the city in under 30 minutes for just a few euros. Trams run frequently from early morning to midnight. Buy your tickets at the station or via the Lignes d’Azur app. Locals often use 10-trip tickets for discounts.

Buses: ideal for exploring the hills

If you're going beyond the tram lines, buses cover the entire city and its surroundings. Want to visit the Colline du Château or Cimiez? Hop on a local bus. They’re reliable, cheap, and perfect for exploring residential neighborhoods, museums, and hidden viewpoints.

Rent a scooter or electric bike

Want more freedom? Many locals use electric scooters or bikes, available all over the city through apps like Tier, Lime, or Dott. They’re fast, eco-friendly, and perfect for zipping through the Promenade des Anglais or the Port area. Just download the app, scan a vehicle, and you’re off. Make sure to stick to the bike lanes.

Walk like a local

Nice is one of the most walkable cities in France. The Old Town, Promenade, and Place Masséna are best explored on foot. Strolling through the colorful alleys lets you experience the real charm of the city. Bring comfortable shoes and you’re set.

Insider tip: avoid tourist taxis

Taxis in Nice are notoriously overpriced and not always friendly to tourists. Locals prefer to walk, take public transport, or use Uber/Bolt. Rideshare apps are reliable, especially late at night or when trams stop running.

Night out? Use the night tram

Planning to party in Nice like a local? The trams run late on weekends, so you can hit the best bars, join a pub crawl, or go to a club without worrying about the ride back. If you stay out past midnight, Uber or walking back is often the local way.

Get the Zou Card

If you’re staying for several days or exploring nearby towns (like Antibes, Cannes, or Eze), get a Zou! card. It gives you major discounts on regional trains and buses, helping you explore the French Riviera without spending much.

What apps do locals use?

Download the Lignes d’Azur app for real-time tram and bus schedules. For scooters or bikes, use Tier, Lime, or Dott. For planning regional trips, the SNCF Connect app helps book trains quickly.

In summary, the secret to getting around Nice like a local is simple: mix walking, trams, scooters, and apps. It’s fast, fun, and budget-friendly. You don’t need a car, a guide, or a fat wallet to explore every corner of this beautiful coastal city. Just plan smart and enjoy the ride.