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Car Rental at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE)

Quick Answer

Rental car desks at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE) are Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has a dedicated Car Rental Centre on the lower level; Terminal 2 desks are near exit A5. Car parks are a short walk from each terminal.. Major companies include Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt. The fastest transfer to Nice is by Tram (Line 2) (30 minutes).

Rental Desk Location

Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has a dedicated Car Rental Centre on the lower level; Terminal 2 desks are near exit A5. Car parks are a short walk from each terminal.

Pro Tip

Book your rental car at NCE at least 2-3 weeks ahead for the best prices, especially during summer.

Car Rental Companies at NCE

Europcar Hertz Avis Sixt Enterprise National Budget Ada

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Getting from Nice Cote d'Azur Airport to Nice

TransportDurationCostNotes
Tram (Line 2)30 minutesEUR 1.50Connects both terminals to Nice center (Jean Medecin) and the port
Airport Express Bus (98/99)35 minutesEUR 6Line 98 to city center, Line 99 to Nice main train station
Taxi20-30 minutesEUR 32 flat rateFixed fare to Nice city center; supplements apply for extra luggage
Helicopter7 minutesEUR 160To Monaco heliport — the classic Riviera arrival

Nice Cote d'Azur Airport is the third-busiest airport in France, serving the glamorous French Riviera and its string of famous resort towns. Located right on the Mediterranean coast just west of Nice, the airport offers remarkable convenience with the city center only 7 km away and the Italian border just 30 km to the east.

Renting a car at Nice is a wonderful way to explore the Riviera at your own pace. The legendary coastal drive from Nice to Monaco (via the three corniche roads) is one of Europe's most famous road trips. Beyond the glitz, a car gives access to the hilltop villages of Eze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Grasse (the perfume capital), as well as the Verdon Gorge — Europe's answer to the Grand Canyon — about 2 hours inland.

The airport is well-connected to the A8 motorway, which runs east to the Italian border (Ventimiglia is just 40 minutes) and west toward Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Marseille. During summer, the coastal A8 can be heavily congested, so allow extra time or travel during off-peak hours.

Tips for Renting at Nice Cote d'Azur Airport

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive from Nice to Italy?

Absolutely. The Italian border at Ventimiglia is about 40 minutes east on the A8. Most major rental companies allow travel to Italy without surcharges.

Is driving to Monaco practical?

Yes, Monaco is just 20 km east of Nice. The Moyenne Corniche offers the best blend of scenery and speed. Parking in Monaco's underground garages is straightforward.

How far is Saint-Tropez?

About 110 km west (1.5-2 hours). There is no motorway directly to Saint-Tropez, so the last stretch is on scenic but potentially slow coastal roads.

Do I need a Crit'Air sticker?

Nice requires a Crit'Air vignette during pollution episodes. Most rental cars come equipped with one, but verify at pick-up.

What is the Verdon Gorge and how do I get there?

The Gorges du Verdon is a spectacular canyon about 150 km northwest of Nice (2 hours). The Route des Cretes offers breathtaking viewpoints. A full day trip is recommended.

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