From Nice: The Central Advantage

Nice's position and transport connections make it the ideal base for regional exploration.

The Italian Riviera

Ventimiglia (40 minutes by train, €5) - Massive Friday market - Medieval upper town - Authentic prices - Different atmosphere - Hanbury Gardens nearby

What to Do: - Shop at Europe's largest market - Explore Alta Ventimiglia - Lunch affordably - Stock up on Italian products - Return laden with bargains

San Remo (1.5 hours by train, €8) - Italian elegance - Casino rival to Monte Carlo - La Pigna old town - Designer shopping - Cycle path along coast

Dolceacqua (Bus from Ventimiglia) - Medieval bridge village - Rossese wine region - Castle ruins - Minimal tourism - Authentic Italy

Mountain Escapes

Saint-Martin-Vésubie (1.5 hours by bus) - Gateway to Mercantour - Alpine village charm - Hiking base - Summer refuge - Thermal baths option

Tende (2 hours by train) - Spectacular train journey - Valley of Marvels access - Medieval architecture - Mountain culture - French-Italian blend

Sospel (1 hour by train) - Baroque churches - Toll bridge - Mountain setting - Thursday market - Fort walks

Coastal Gems

Èze Village (30 minutes by bus) - Perched perfection - Exotic garden - Artist galleries - Tourist heavy but beautiful - Nietzsche path option

Villefranche-sur-Mer (15 minutes by train) - Deep water bay - Cocteau chapel - Citadel museums - Beach time - Authentic restaurants

Cap Ferrat (30 minutes by bus) - Rothschild villa - Coastal path walks - Hidden beaches - Millionaire watching - Free path access

Inland Exploration

Vence (1 hour by bus) - Living Provençal town - Matisse chapel - Artist heritage - Market days - Gateway to Baous

Saint-Paul-de-Vence (1 hour by bus) - Famous artist village - Fondation Maeght - Gallery browsing - Expensive but atmospheric - Better early/late

Grasse (1.5 hours by bus) - Perfume capital - Factory tours - Medieval center - Authentic prices - Mountain views