Discover mountains, coastline and charming villages on scenic train rides from Nice.
Few places in Europe offer such a variety of landscapes within easy reach of a city as the region around Nice. Within an hour or two by train, you can travel from the sparkling Mediterranean coast to deep alpine valleys, medieval hill villages and even across the border into Italy.
Better still, these journeys are scenic in their own right. Windows frame views of turquoise seas, dramatic red cliffs, mountain gorges, and sleepy Provençal towns. Whether you’re planning a day trip or simply want to enjoy a slow journey through beautiful landscapes, train travel is one of the most relaxing ways to explore the Riviera.
Here are four of the most scenic train rides from Nice, each offering a completely different experience: a mountain adventure, a historic railway, and two unforgettable coastal journeys.
1. The Train des Merveilles: A Marvellous Mountain Journey to Tende
One of the most famous railway journeys in southern France is the Train des Merveilles, a dramatic line that climbs 1000m from the Mediterranean into the mountains of the southern Alps.
Departing from Nice, the train soon leaves the coast behind and heads inland through steep valleys, tunnels, and bridges. Over the course of the journey it passes through more than 100 tunnels, many carved into sheer rock faces during the railway’s construction in the late 19th – early 20th century.
The route follows 3 beautiful valleys, along the Roya, Paillon and Bévéra, an area known for its wild landscapes and colourful hillside villages. Sitting by the window, you’ll see terraced hillsides, stone houses clinging to cliffs, and deep green forests.
Some of the most picturesque stops along the line include:
- Breil-sur-Roya – a peaceful village set beside a lake and surrounded by mountains
- Saorge – a remarkable medieval village built into the hillside like an amphitheatre
- Fontan – a quiet alpine stop with lovely hiking routes
The final destination is the charming town of Tende. Here you’ll find narrow cobbled streets, painted houses, and wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.
A highlight of the town is the fascinating Musée des Merveilles, which explores the prehistoric rock carvings found in the nearby mountains of the Mercantour National Park.
For hikers and nature lovers, the area offers countless walking trails. Even if you simply spend a couple of hours wandering through the old town before catching the return train, the journey itself makes the trip worthwhile.
Travel tip: The 9:32 departure from Nice has a live commentary every day from June to September, as well as on weekends and public holidays the rest of the year.
Read my full account of the Train des Merveilles
2. The Train des Pignes: A Scenic Train Ride From Nice
Another unforgettable journey begins at the small station “Chemin de Fer de Provence” just north of the main Nice railway station: the historic Train des Pignes.
This narrow-gauge, mostly single-track, railway runs deep into the countryside of Alpes de Haute Provence, linking Nice with the spa town of Digne-les-Bains. Unlike the fast coastal trains, the Train des Pignes travels at a leisurely pace, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the scenery.
The train follows the Var river, winding through valleys, across bridges, and past quiet villages. In spring and summer the landscape is particularly beautiful, with wildflowers and bright green fields stretching across the hillsides.
As a day trip from Nice the small fortified village of Entrevaux makes a perfect destination. Known for its charming drawbridge and dramatic citadel, a visit to Entrevaux really feels like stepping back in time.
You can stop here to climb up to the citadel at your leisure and catch the return train a few hours later, or you can continue on to Annot. Annot is known for its towering sandstone formations, the Grès d’Annot. These dramatic rocks form a maze of cliffs and boulders, making the area popular with hikers and climbers.
Read my full account of a visit to Entrevaux.
Ride a Steam Train in Summer
During the summer months mainly on weekends, a section of the line, from Puget-Théniers to Annot, is also served by a nostalgic steam train run by the association Train à Vapeur des Pignes.
Pulled by a historic locomotive with traditional wooden carriages, this heritage train offers a magical glimpse into the golden age of railway travel. The gentle rhythm of the engine and the smell of steam guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Whether you choose the regular train service or the historic steam train, the journey to Entrevaux or Annot remains one of the most charming railway experiences in the region.
Travel tip: For the steam train you have the choice of taking the electric train from Nice as far as Puget-Théniers and swapping on to it or you can drive to Puget-Théniers and leave the car in the free car park at the station.
3. The Scenic Coastal Train from Nice to Ventimiglia
If you prefer sea views to mountain scenery, the short coastal train from Nice to Italy is a delightful journey.
The line follows the Mediterranean coastline eastwards, passing beaches, rocky coves and elegant seaside towns. In less than an hour you can travel from the French Riviera into the colourful Italian region of Liguria via the Principality of Monaco.
Monaco station is underground but you get a view of the city after you come out of the tunnel if you look back. Alternatively make sure you are sitting on the left on the return journey and you’ll be able to see Monaco as you head towards it.
Having passed through Menton (famous for its lemon festival in February), you arrive at Ventimiglia. Be sure to visit its historic old town which rises above the Roya river, with narrow streets, churches, and lovely views across the coast. It is much more interesting than the modern town.
One of the town’s biggest attractions is the famous Ventimiglia Friday Market, where stalls sell everything from leather goods and clothing to Italian food and local produce. Be prepared as it is very busy. If you want a quieter experience avoid Fridays!
Travel tip: For the best views choose an upstairs seat on the right for the outward journey and the left for the return.
4. The Coastal Train to Saint-Raphaël from Nice
Heading west from Nice offers another spectacular journey along the Mediterranean coast.
The train passes through several famous Riviera destinations, including Antibes and Cannes. One particularly lovely stop along the way is Théoule-sur-Mer, a peaceful seaside village tucked between the cliffs and the sea.
Beyond Théoule, the scenery becomes even more dramatic as the railway curves through the red volcanic cliffs of the Massif de l’Estérel. These striking red rocks plunge directly into the sea, creating one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in southern France.
Continuing along the coast, the train eventually reaches the historic port town of Saint-Raphaël.
Saint-Raphaël offers sandy beaches, a lively marina and a charming old town filled with cafés and restaurants. It’s also the gateway to boat trips exploring the rugged Estérel coastline and a variety of adventure tours.
It’s worth knowing that St Raphaël is particularly lovely at Christmas (the month of December) as the traditional wooden boats in the harbour, known as Pointus, are prettily decked out in thousands of twinkling lights.
Whether you stay for a few hours or jump straight back on a return train, the journey itself is definitely a very memorable part of the trip.
Travel tip: For the best sea views, try to sit on the left side of the train when leaving Nice.
Practical Tips for Scenic Train Rides from Nice
If you’re planning one of these railway adventures, a few simple tips can make the experience even better.
Tickets for coastal services can be purchased through SNCF online or at any station in the area. Regional trains on the Riviera run frequently, making spontaneous day trips very easy.
Tickets for the regular Train des Pignes (not historic) can be booked on the CP Zou website or at the Chemins de Fer de Provence station in Nice.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid travelling at rush hour on the coastal train, it is a busy commuter train for locals and you’ll be lucky to get a seat.
- Bring snacks or a picnic, especially on longer journeys like the Train des Merveilles.
- Choose your seat carefully depending on the direction of travel to enjoy the best views.
- There are discounts for groups of 3+ people travelling together on the coastal trains.
- Book as far in advance as possible for the heritage steam train Train des Pignes.
- The Train des Pignes departs from the Chemins de Fer de Provence station in Nice not Nice Ville.
Exploring the Riviera by Train
One of the great joys of staying in the Nice area is how easy it is to explore the surrounding region without a car. Within a short journey you can experience mountain villages, Italian markets, dramatic coastlines, and hidden corners of Provence.
Whether you’re travelling deep into the Alps on the Train des Merveilles, riding a nostalgic railway through Provence on the Train des Pignes, or simply enjoying the sea views along the Riviera, these train journeys offer some of the most memorable day trips in the south of France.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Train Rides from Nice
What is the most scenic train ride from Nice?
Many travellers consider the Train des Merveilles the most spectacular railway journey from Nice. The train climbs from the Mediterranean coast into the Alps, passing through dozens of tunnels and offering stunning views of the Roya Valley.
Can you take a scenic coastal train from Nice?
Yes. The coastal railway runs along the French Riviera with wonderful sea views. Popular routes include trains from Nice to Ventimiglia in Italy and west to Saint-Raphaël along the beautiful Esterel coastline.
Is the Train des Pignes worth taking?
The Train des Pignes is one of the most charming train journeys in Provence. The narrow-gauge railway travels slowly through valleys and mountain villages, with a lovely stop in the village of Annot. In summer you can even ride a heritage steam train.
Can you visit Italy by train from Nice?
Yes. Trains run frequently from Nice to Ventimiglia, just across the Italian border. The journey takes about 40 minutes and is a popular day trip for markets, Italian food, and seaside views.
Related Reading
Taking The Train to Nice: a Guide to Train Travel in France
13 of The Best Hill Villages Near Nice
A Free Walking Tour of Antibes
Unusual Things to do on The French Riviera
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