The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a dreamy coastal region in southeastern France. It’s a place where the azure Mediterranean Sea meets the Alps, creating a stunning landscape that has attracted artists, writers, and celebrities for centuries. The region is well-served by a variety of public transportation options, including trains, buses, trams, and boats. These systems are run by various operators, including the SNCF (French National Railway Company), the Lignes d’Azur (Nice’s public transportation network), and the Trans Côte d’Azur (a boat service). With such a comprehensive network, it’s entirely possible for an expat to live comfortably in the French Riviera without a car, relying on public transportation and walking.
Trains
The French Riviera is well-connected by train, with the SNCF operating regular services along the coast and inland. The TER (Transport Express Régional) is a regional train service that connects major cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, as well as smaller towns like Antibes and Menton. It’s a safe and reliable way to travel, even at night, and is used by people of all ages, including school children. A single journey costs around €5, but prices can vary depending on the distance traveled. The trains offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, making every journey a scenic adventure.
Buses
Buses are another popular mode of transportation in the French Riviera. The Lignes d’Azur operates a comprehensive network of bus routes in Nice and its surrounding areas. The buses are safe and comfortable, and they run frequently throughout the day. A single ticket costs €1.50, and it’s valid for 74 minutes, allowing you to transfer to another bus or tram within this time frame. There are also night buses, known as “Noctambus”, which operate from 9:15 pm to 5:30 am. For those living in more remote areas, the Zou! bus service connects the entire Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
Trams
Nice is the only city in the French Riviera with a tram system. The trams are modern, efficient, and a great way to get around the city. There are three tram lines, which cover most of the city, including the airport and the port. The trams run from 4:30 am to 1:30 am, making them a reliable option for early morning or late-night travel. A single journey costs €1.50, the same as a bus ticket. The trams are safe and well-maintained, and they’re a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
Boats
Given its coastal location, it’s no surprise that boats are a popular mode of transportation in the French Riviera. The Trans Côte d’Azur operates regular services between Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and the Lerins Islands. The boats are a fun and scenic way to travel, offering stunning views of the coastline. Prices vary depending on the route, but a return ticket from Nice to Saint-Tropez costs around €60. The boats are safe and comfortable, and they’re a great way to explore the region’s beautiful coastline and islands.
In conclusion, the French Riviera offers a variety of public transportation options that make it easy to get around without a car. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the region’s stunning landscapes, or simply going about your daily life, you can rely on the region’s trains, buses, trams, and boats to get you where you need to go.
