A Guide to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)


Estimated reading time: 14 minutes

Flying into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport? Here’s what you need to know.

Two Air France aircrafts, a smaller propeller plane and a larger jet, are parked on the tarmac near a body of water during daylight.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is a vital gateway to the vibrant French Riviera, connecting travelers to Mediterranean allure and culture. Image credit: Nabil Molinari/Flickr

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), the primary gateway to the French Riviera, ranks as the third busiest airport in France, trailing only behind Paris’ Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. With a passenger count of 14,189,965 in 2023, it underscores its importance in connecting travelers to one of France’s most picturesque and popular tourist regions. Located 7 km (4 mi) west of Nice’s city center, the airport facilitates access not only to the Côte d’Azur but also serves as a convenient entry point for Monaco, further bolstered by a helicopter service that links the airport and the principality directly.

Recognized as a focus city for Air France and hosting an operating base for easyJet, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is a pivotal hub for both international and domestic flights, efficiently catering to the needs of travelers heading to this vibrant Mediterranean destination.

Find your way around this busy airport with the help of this Nice Côte d’Azur Airport map, and this convenient guide, both of which will help you make choices about how to spend your time in the airport.

Table of Contents

How to get to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

To get to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, you have several options depending on where you are starting your journey:

  • Tram: This is the most affordable option. Tram line 2 runs directly between the airport (Terminals 1 and 2) and the city center (Port Lympia station), via Jean Médecin station. Trams run approximately every 8 minutes during the week, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. The first tram stop outside the airport (Grand Arénas) is free to use. 
  • Train: Trains run from Nice Saint-Augustin station to Terminal 2 of the airport every 15 minutes, with a journey time of around 25 minutes. 
  • Bus: Although less frequent than the tram, there are also buses that run between Nice and the airport. The most useful bus route is the express service number 82, which departs from Terminal 2 and takes around 35 minutes to reach Antibes/Golfe Juan. 
  • Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

Where is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport?

Address: 19 Rue Costes et Bellonte, 06200 Nice, France
Phone: +33 4 0820423333

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Parking Options

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport offers a variety of parking options designed to meet the needs of different travelers, whether they’re looking for short-term convenience, long-term affordability, or premium services.

Short-Term Parking

Economical Car Parks

Ideal for those seeking value, starting from 3-day stays:

  • P8 Car Park – Terminal 1
  • P9 Car Park – Terminal 2

Car Parks Nearby

Situated just a short walk from the terminals:

  • P3 Car Park – Terminal 1
  • P4 Car Park – Terminal 1
  • P6 Car Park – Terminal 2

Contact Parking Lots

For the utmost convenience, these are nearest to the terminals:

  • P2 Car Park – Terminal 1
  • P5 Car Park – Terminal 2

Long-Term Parking

Premium Car Parks

Offering spacious parking spots and direct terminal access:

  • G1 Car Park – Terminal 1
  • G2 Car Park – Terminal 2

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Terminals Overview

Comprising two primary passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is thoughtfully designed to prioritize accessibility, ensuring that passengers with reduced mobility or special needs experience seamless travel. To keep travelers connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals, addressing the digital needs of today’s passengers.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is equipped with 25 gates within a 52,000 square meter area. It accommodates flights heading to domestic locations, as well as Schengen and non-Schengen international destinations, with an annual passenger capacity of 4.5 million. Additionally, Terminal 1 houses a business center, which includes eight meeting rooms and a larger conference space capable of hosting up to 250 attendees.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 stands as the more modern and expansive of the two, designed to manage flights to all types of destinations. It has 29 gates spread over an area of 57,800 square meters. This terminal can accommodate up to 8.5 million passengers annually.

Airlines at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

Two Air France aircrafts, a smaller propeller plane and a larger jet, are parked on the tarmac near a body of water during daylight.
The French Riviera dazzles with sun-kissed beaches, glamourous resorts, and vibrant culture along the Mediterranean coast. Image credit: Wikimedia

Terminal 1

  • Aer Lingus
  • Aeroflot (Rossiya)
  • Air Berlin
  • Air Transat
  • AirBaltic
  • Austrian Airlines (Tyrolean Airways)
  • Blu-express
  • Blue Air
  • British Airways
  • British Airways (BA CityFlyer)
  • Brussels Airlines
  • Darwin Airline
  • Emirates
  • Estonian Air
  • Flybe
  • Germania
  • Germanwings
  • Iberia Airlines (Air Nostrum)
  • Israir Airlines
  • Jet2.com
  • LOT Polish Airlines
  • Lufthansa
  • Lufthansa Regional (Eurowings)
  • Lufthansa Regional (Lufthansa CityLine)
  • Luxair
  • Meridiana Fly
  • Monarch
  • Niki
  • Norwegian Air Shuttle
  • Qatar Airways
  • Ryanair
  • Scandinavian Airlines
  • Sky Work Airlines
  • Swiss International Air Lines
  • Syphax Airlines
  • TACV Cabo Verde Airlines
  • TAP Portugal (Portugália)
  • Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium
  • Transavia
  • Turkish Airlines
  • Twin Jet
  • Ukraine International Airlines
  • Vueling

Terminal 2

  • Aeroflot
  • Aigle Azur
  • Air Algérie
  • Air France
  • Air France (Air Corsica)
  • Air France (Brit Air)
  • Air France (Régional)
  • Alitalia
  • Czech Airlines
  • Danube Wings
  • Delta Air Lines
  • easyJet
  • easyJet (easyJet Switzerland)
  • Finnair
  • Heli Air Monaco
  • Jetairfly
  • KLM (KLM Cityhopper)
  • Middle East Airlines
  • Royal Air Maroc
  • SmartWings
  • TAROM
  • Tunisair

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Lounges

Terminal 1, Non-Schengen

The Canopy VIP Lounge

The Canopy VIP Lounge offers a serene environment for relaxation with views of the airport runways. It’s also equipped with workspaces, televisions, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The lounge features two buffets offering a variety of snacks, including madeleines and pancakes, with alcohol and champagne available free of charge.

The lounge is conveniently located in Terminal 1, inside the Non-Schengen security area.

Lounge Access:

  • Exclusive to passengers flying to Belgium, Greece, the Netherlands, and non-Schengen countries.
  • Available to business class passengers on most airlines operating from Terminal 1, as well as to Priority Pass holders.
  • Possible for walk-ins, subject to capacity, with entry fees starting from €30 per traveler.

Terminal 1, Schengen

The Library VIP Lounge

Renovated and renamed in June 2017, The Library VIP Lounge, formerly known as “Azure Salon,” offers guests access to an array of books in a comfortable setting with two main rooms in addition to the library area. A self-serve buffet area provides an assortment of cold cuts, cheese, yogurt, toast, bread, sweets, packaged snacks, and fruits. Beverages include juice, soda, water, as well as wine and liquor, complemented by an espresso machine for coffee lovers.

The lounge is located in the Schengen Area (Zone A) of Terminal 1.

Lounge Access:

  • Accessible to passengers departing on Schengen flights only, excluding flights to Belgium, Greece, and the Netherlands.
  • Open to Priority Pass members and those with applicable premium credit card benefits.
  • Possible for walk-ins, subject to capacity, with entry fees starting from €30 per traveler.

Terminal 2, Schengen

The Infinity VIP Lounge

The Infinity VIP Lounge stands out with its vibrant colors and unique setting, offering splendid views of the Mediterranean Sea and airport runways. The ambiance is perfect for both relaxation and work, with complimentary Wi-Fi and a buffet that includes a selection of light refreshments and an open bar.

The lounge is located in the Schengen Area (Zone A) of Terminal 2.

Lounge Access:

  • Accessible for passengers departing on Schengen flights only – excluding flights to Belgium, Greece, and the Netherlands. Passengers departing on Non-Schengen flights may also access this lounge.
  • Business Class and First Class passengers of selected airlines.
  • Passengers with frequent flier status, such as Star Alliance Gold, flying with airlines like Swiss or Austrian Airlines, and Priority Pass members.
  • Possible for walk-ins, subject to capacity, with entry fees starting from €30 per traveler.

Restaurants at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport offers a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste, from quick bites before a short haul to leisurely meals that start your vacation early. Here’s what to expect in each terminal.

Terminal 1

  • Joe & The Juice: Freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, sandwiches, and coffee for a healthy refresh.
  • La Tarte Tropézienne: Indulge in the iconic cream-filled tart and a variety of sweet pastries with coffee.
  • Trib’s: Quick and quality sandwiches, salads, snacks, and hot drinks for travelers on the go.
  • La Plage: Offers a leisurely dining experience with Mediterranean views, featuring seafood, salads, and grilled dishes.
  • Monsieur Albert: French Hot Dog aficionado serving up fresh chips, nachos, salads, beers, juices, and breakfast options.
  • Pan Garni: Thierry Marx brings Mediterranean and Nice flavors to life, perfect for a flavorful pre-flight meal.

Terminal 2

  • Bread&Co: Situated city side for early bites, offering coffee and freshly-made sandwiches on tasty bread.
  • Estivale: Revamped dining in Terminal 2 introduces a Mediterranean bistro experience by chef Bruno Oger.
  • CHEZ JEAN: A vibrant café and convenience store by Eric Kayser, offering sweet and savory treats alongside freshly baked bread and pastries.
  • Jamie Oliver’s Pizzeria: Italian-inspired cuisine by British chef Jamie Oliver, featuring quality ingredients and a view of the runways.
  • La Paillote: Serves regional Nice cuisine in a local ambiance for a gourmet dining experience before your flight.
  • Pokawa: Offers a colorful atmosphere to enjoy Poke Bowls, available for dine-in or take-away.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Shopping

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport provides a delightful array of shopping opportunities across its two terminals. Whether you’re interested in luxury goods, French Riviera souvenirs, or essentials for your journey, you’ll find plenty to browse and buy.

Terminal 1

Explore a diverse range of shopping experiences in Terminal 1, where boutiques like Relay and Max Mara offer high-end fashion and accessories, ranging from international brands to special French designs. For a taste of local flavor, Saveurs de Provence showcases a variety of regional products and souvenirs, perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.

Duty-Free shopping at Aelia Duty Free presents travelers with an extensive selection of perfumes, cosmetics, wines, and spirits at tax-free prices. Those looking for something special can visit The Fashion Place for the latest in clothing and accessories. Don’t forget to stop by FNAC for electronics, books, and more, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your travel.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 continues the trend with its own unique set of stores and the stylish offerings at the Aelia Duty-Free. For fashion enthusiasts, stores like Michael Kors and Salvatore Ferragamo provide elegant options for updating your wardrobe. Those seeking luxury watches and jewelry will find exquisite pieces at Hour Passion.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Hotels

Campanile Nice – Aéroport

Location: 459-461 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice
Free airport shuttle: No

The Campanile Nice – Aéroport, a 3-star hotel, features contemporary, soundproofed rooms complemented by complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a restful and connected stay. Guests can enjoy the convenience of on-site dining with a restaurant and a lounge bar, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Positioned near the airport and the famed Promenade des Anglais, this hotel stands as an excellent choice for those prioritizing convenience and comfort without an extravagant price tag. Its location serves both business and leisure travelers perfectly, offering easy access to local attractions and business hubs.

Novotel Nice Arénas Aéroport

Location: 455 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice
Free airport shuttle: Yes

Situated directly opposite Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and along the famous Promenade des Anglais, the Novotel Nice Arenas Aeroport offers a prime location just 7km from the heart of Nice. This 4-star accommodation, nestled in the Arenas District, boasts convenience with the Line 2 tram route passing nearby, providing direct links to both the city center and airport facilities.

Guests can enjoy the comfort of soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms, each equipped with a flat-screen TV, ensuring a restful stay amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Nice. The hotel’s proximity to local attractions adds to its appeal; Parc Phoenix and the Asian Arts Museum are merely a 5-minute stroll away, while the Nice Saint Augustin multimodal train station is accessible within a 5-minute walk, offering easy transportation options to Cannes, 17 miles away, and Monaco, 20 miles distant.

Hotel Ibis Styles Nice Aéroport Arénas

Location: 127 Bd René Cassin, 06200 Nice
Free airport shuttle: Yes

Located directly across from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and nestled in the bustling Arenas business district, the Hotel Ibis Styles Nice Aéroport Arénas is just a stone’s throw away from the city’s vibrant center—a mere 15-minute drive. For guests looking to explore local attractions or commute to the city, the Parc Phenix tram stop is conveniently positioned just a 2-minute walk away, and the Parc Phenix animal park is located within 1969 feet of the hotel.

This establishment promises a comfortable stay with air-conditioned rooms that are outfitted with satellite TV and offer free Wi-Fi, ensuring guests stay connected and entertained. Moreover, the hotel enhances its hospitality with the inclusion of complimentary breakfast, an on-site bar for leisurely drinks, and an outdoor pool for refreshing swims, making it a comprehensive choice for travelers seeking both convenience and comfort during their stay in Nice.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Amenities

  • Wi-Fi: The airport provides Wi-Fi connectivity throughout its terminals, allowing passengers to stay connected during their journey
  • Power Sockets and USB Connectors: Passengers can find power sockets and USB connectors in all new food and beverage areas, on JCDecaux advertising screen columns, in specific areas within boarding lounges, inside all VIP lounges, and on shuttle buses.
  • Currency Exchange: Currency exchange services are available at both terminals, accommodating travelers who need to convert their currency during their transit.
  • ATMs: ATMs are conveniently located throughout both terminals. These machines accept all major inter-bank, international Visa, Eurocard/Mastercard, and American Express cards. Additionally, there are facilities for changing notes into coins.
  • Smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside the terminals at Nice Airport. Travelers wishing to smoke may use designated smoking areas located outside the terminal buildings.
  • Water Filling Stations: Water fountains are available in the departure areas of both terminals, providing easy access to drinking water.
  • Baby Changing Facilities: Both terminals are equipped with baby changing facilities. In Terminal 1, the changing station is located in both the public area and airside. In Terminal 2, facilities are available in the public area of the arrivals hall and airside.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport Destinations

Flights to France

  • Ajaccio
  • Biarritz
  • Bordeaux
  • Brest
  • Brive
  • Calvi
  • Figari
  • Lille
  • Lyon
  • Nantes
  • Paris
  • Rennes
  • Strasbourg 

Flights to Europe

  • Albania
  • Armenia
  • Belgium
  • Czech Republic
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Island
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Malta
  • Moldova
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Serbia

Flights to Middle East

  • Bahrain
  • Israel
  • Kuwait
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Turkey 

Flights to North America

  • Canada
  • United States

The Best Way to Get to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

For reliable transportation to and from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, consider booking a Blacklane car service in Nice. With Blacklane, you can bypass the hassle of negotiating local taxi fees, eliminate the stress of finding parking, navigating through traffic, and coordinating transportation. Beyond airport transfers, discover the convenience of Blacklane’s long-distance services for effortless travel between Nice and other iconic destinations like St. Tropez, and Monaco and Aix-en-Provence. Experience the convenience and peace of mind of traveling with Blacklane for all your transportation needs.

FAQs about Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

How to get from Nice Airport to Cannes?

  • Bus: Take the bus from Nice Airport to Office de Tourisme in Cannes. The journey takes around 35 minutes.
  • Tram and Train: Take the tram from Aéroport Terminal 2 to Parc Phoenix (L2), then take the train from Nice St Augustin to Cannes. This option takes about 57 minutes.
  • Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

How to get from Nice Airport to Monaco?

  • Fly: The quickest way is to fly from Nice (NCE) to Monaco (MCM), which takes about 7 minutes.
  • Tram and Train: Take the tram from Aéroport Terminal 2 to Parc Phoenix (L2), then take the train from Nice St Augustin to Monaco Monte Carlo. This option takes around 57 minutes.
  • Bus: You can also take the bus from Nice Airport to Villa paloma in Monaco, which takes about 50 minutes.
  • Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

How to get from Nice Airport to Antibes?

  • Bus: Take the bus from Nice Airport to Pole d’Echanges in Antibes. The journey takes around 41 minutes.
  • Tram and Train: Take the tram from Aéroport Terminal 2 to Parc Phoenix (L2), then take the train from Nice St Augustin to Antibes. This option takes about 44 minutes.
  • Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

How to get from Nice Airport to Menton?

  • Fly: The quickest way is to fly from Nice (NCE) to Monaco (MCM), which takes about 30 minutes.
  • Tram and Train: Take the tram from Aéroport Terminal 2 to Parc Phoenix (L2), then take the train from Nice St Augustin to Villefranche Sur Mer. This option takes around 57 minutes.
  • Bus: Alternatively, you can take the bus from Nice Airport to Gare Routiere in Menton, which takes about 45 minutes.
  • Book a Blacklane: For those seeking a more elevated and comfortable travel experience, consider booking with Blacklane. We offer reliable car services, ensuring a smooth transition to your final destination.

How far is Nice Airport from the city center?

The distance between Nice Airport (NCE) and the city center of Nice is approximately 5 kilometers (about 3 miles).

How far is St. Tropez from Nice Airport?

The distance between Nice Airport (NCE) and St. Tropez is approximately 107 kilometers (about 66 miles).

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ellie Smith

Ellie is an avid traveler, writer, and adventurer, with a passion for exploring the world and sharing her experiences through storytelling. Working for global chauffeur company Blacklane and having lived in cities like Dubai and Berlin, she has gained valuable first-hand experience in uncovering hidden gems worldwide.