Is Nice worth it? How to Visit on a Budget

Nice Budget Guide:
What to Expect and How to Save Money

 

Welcome to Nice: Nestled along the sparkling French Riveria, this glamourous city boasts a beautiful blend of history with modernity and culture. Its Mediterranean climate, sophisticated atmosphere, and alluring charm attract visitors from across the globe. You might assume Nice to be an incredibly pricey destination due to its increasing popularity. However, budget travellers can use this guide to keep costs low.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Nice

 

How Much Do Things Cost in Nice

 

Category	Average Cost
Eating Out	€5-10 for fast food restaurants, street vendors, cafes and local dining €15-€30 for mid-range restaurants €25-50 per person for a 3-course meal €50-€100 and more for fine dining and upscale restaurants
Taxi	Approximately €3.50-€4 base fare, then €1.10-€2 per kilometre travelled
Bus	€1.50 for adult single journey €10-15 for multi-journey tickets
Cup of Coffee	€1.50-€3 for standard cup of coffee from local cafes and bakeries €3-€5 from fancier cafes and the city centre
Beer	€4-€7 in local pubs, bars and restaurants €5-€10 for a pack of 6 domestic beers from supermarkets and local grocery stores €7 or more in upscale bars and restaurants
Local Wine	€5-€10 from local grocery stores and supermarkets €3-€7 for a glass from restaurants and bars €15-50 for a bottle from restaurants and bars
Accommodation	Hotels €40-80 per night for budget hotels and hostels with shared facilities €80-€150 per night for mid-range hotels €150+ per night for luxury hotels Hostels €20-€40 per night for dormitory room with shared facilities €50-€100 per night for private room Guesthouses/B&Bs €50-€80 per night for basic guesthouses €80-€150 per night for mid-range guesthouses and B&Bs with private bathrooms and breakfast €150+ per night for luxury and upscale boutiques, guesthouses and B&Bs in prime locations
Attractions	€5-15 for museums €8 for standard ticket to Musée Marc Chagall €10 for standard ticket to Musée Matisse €20-50 for guided tours

Where to Stay in Nice on a Budget

Nice is a popular destination with visitors flocking to experience the sun, sea and sand. However, you'll still find plenty of affordable options for those travelling on a budget. Take a look at the following options for staying in Nice on a budget:

Hostels: Solo travellers keen to connect with other backpackers/tourists from around the world should consider hostel stays. The social environment allows you to pick up travel buddies while making a huge saving on accommodation costs. Nice offers numerous hostel options that provide dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms and common spaces. Private rooms are also offered for those who prefer their own space.

Budget Hotels: Nice is scattered with budget hotels that offer affordable stays without having to compromise on comfort. They are ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking a clean and convenient place while exploring the city.

Guesthouses and B&Bs: Guesthouses and B&Bs provide a 'home away from home' type of experience. Guests can get cosy and comfortable within the intimate environment, and experience a more authentic and local touch. The personalised setting allows guests to build closer reports with the hosts and create familiarity. You'll find a number of these accommodations around the city at affordable rates.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Nice

Nice has a variety of neighbourhoods that cater to different budgets while still offering convenient access to the city's attractions. We've scouted the area and picked out the most affordable options.

Neighbourhood	Description
Libération	Offering a more local atmosphere with its own market, shops and cafes, Libération is a fantastic choice for those keen to mingle with a vibrant community. Prices tend to be more affordable, and you'll find plenty of pleasant accommodation options.
Riquier	This charming neighbourhood is a mix of residential buildings and small businesses located close to the port and the Old Town. Visitors can enjoy a more serene atmosphere in comparison to the bustling city centre.
Port Area	Despite its increasing popularity, the Port Area has managed to retain its alluring charm. The cafes, restaurants and shops offer a lively atmosphere and a chance to interact with the locals. Its strategic location allows for easy access to the city centre with its excellent connections.

What to Expect from Staying in Nice and How to Book a Cheap Room

Nice is a popular tourist destination with people from all walks of life flocking to experience the beautiful city. To cater to the demand, Nice ensures that visitors are well accommodated with places to stay for all budgets and preferences.

• Book in advance: Booking at least 60 days in advance is an excellent way to secure availability and find cheaper deals. Leaving things to the last minute could result in paying much higher rates.
• Consider location: It's best to choose an area close to the sites and attractions you wish to visit. This provides convenience and reduces the time and costs of travel.
• Be flexible with your dates: It's important to bear in mind that Nice is an incredibly popular destination. Therefore, the summer months will have swarms of crowds resulting in higher prices. Autumn and winter are better months to avoid mass tourists and find cheaper rates.

How to Get Around Nice Easily and Cheaply

Take the following transport options into consideration:

• Walking: The centre is an exciting place to explore, so walking is a great way to ensure you get the most out of your time and not miss hidden gems and small details.
• Public Buses: Nice hosts an extensive bus network that covers the city and its surrounding areas. You can purchase single tickets, day passes and multi-day passes. The Lignes d'Azur app provides schedules, routes, and ticket purchasing options.
• Vélo Bleu (Bike Share): Nice offers an excellent bike-sharing programme known as Vélo Bleu. Register online or at numerous stations dotted across the city, then pedal away on your rented bike. This is a great choice for short journeys and exploring Nice's bike-friendly routes.
• Car Hire: Nice is an excellent starting point for those wanting to venture further out and explore the beauty of Southern France. Grab yourself a hire car from Nice Airport and get started on your journey.

How to Eat Well in Nice Without Spending a Fortune

Explore the Markets: Up for a culinary adventure? The outdoor markets are well known for their vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce. You'll find delicious cheeses, meats and other local specialities at reasonable prices.

Street Food: Keep your eyes peeled for street food options such as paninis, crepes and falafel. These are delicious meals that are filling and don't cost too much.

BYOB Restaurants: Those who enjoy drinking a glass of red with their meal can avoid the expensive prices by heading to a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurant. Bringing your own beverages means you can avoid paying the mark-up costs typically found on restaurant wine lists.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Nice

Nice offers numerous activities that are for free. Here are our top picks:

• Promenade des Anglais: This wonderful stroll stretches along the Mediterranean coast offering stunning views of the sea, palm trees, and cityscape. Enjoy people-watching, jogging, or simply lazing the day away on the beach.
• Free Walking Tours: Walking tours are an excellent way of learning about the history of Nice, exploring the architecture, and soaking in the culture. You are taken around by knowledgeable local guides.

Here’s what to do in Nice for €5 or less

• Museums and Galleries: There are several museums dotted around Nice that don't require an admission fee. Check out the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC) on the first Sunday of the month or the Musée Masséna, which offers free admission for EU citizens under 26.
• Cultural Events: Nice often hosts free cultural events such as outdoor concerts, art exhibitions, or film screenings.

How to Enjoy the Nightlife and Culture in Nice on a Budget

Night Time Walk: Take a leisurely stroll after hours to experience the city coming to life in the dark. Whether it be the illuminated fountains in Place Masséna or the landmarks under the glow of the streetlights, Nice becomes a different world after sunset.

Happy Hours: Many bars and clubs offer happy hour specials where you can enjoy discounted drinks. Take advantage of these specific hours to make a saving during your evenings out.

More Expensive Cities

Is Cyprus Expensive?	Is Santorini Expensive?	Is Faro Expensive?
Is Malta Expensive?	Is Edinburgh Expensive?	Is London Expensive?
Is Tokyo Expensive?	Is Glasgow Expensive?	Is Paris Expensive?
Is Seville Expensive?	Is Venice Expensive?	Is Berlin Expensive?
Is Tirana Expensive?	Is Nice Expensive?	Is Malaga Expensive?

Tourist Board Info For Nice

Nice Hotels	Nice Car Hire
Nice Airport Hotels	Nice Airport Parking