Tour de France 2024 Nice: routes, tips + how to plan your own Nice bike tour

Part 1: Tour de France, Nice, 2024

The countdown is on for a very special edition of the Tour de France.

With Paris set to host the Olympics just five days after the 2024 Tour de France concludes, the usual Tour de France finish line along the Champs-Élysées has been swapped for the beautiful Promenade des Anglais in Nice, Côte d’Azur.

This will be the first time in history that this iconic race will culminate somewhere other than Paris.

What better place than one of the world’s most beautiful locations?

Stages 20 and 21 of the 111th edition of the Tour de France take place in Nice and the surrounding landscapes of the Côte d’Azur, while stage 19 finishes in the north of the region, at Isola 2000. Stages 19 and 20 is a mountainous stage, while stage 21 finishes the Tour de France with an individual hilly time trial. Together they showcase the diversity and beauty of this region, with the routes taking in the mighty French Alpes Maritimes.

The Tour’s helicopter shots will also showcase the Côte d’Azur’s fantastic position that’s close to both the sea and the mountains. Here you can get up high into the mountains in less than an hour and a half from the sea.

This video gives a great taster of the landscapes you can expect (credit: OTM NCA).

 

Part 2: Riding and spectating Stage 19 Tour de France 2024 (19 July 2024)

Distance

145 kilometres

Metres of climbing

4,400 metres

Route details

The stage is huge, with nearly 4,500m of climbing in 145km. The route takes in the summit of this edition at 2802m on the Cime de la Bonette, before tackling the Col de Vars and the climb to Isola 2000.

Stage 19 is when the Tour de France enters the territory of Nice Côte d’Azur. Getting closer to Nice, the riders will leave Embrun to reach Isola 2000. This mountain stage will take them up the 2,802m pass. After passing a few villages in the valley, the final push will be intense as the Col de la Bonette is the highest paved road in Europe. Riders will also have to take on an ascent of 18km (1,120m) to reach Isola 2000.

What makes Stage 19 special?

Notoriously challenging climbs

This stage includes some of the most challenging climbs in the Tour.

Col de la Bonette

At an altitude of 2,802 metres, the Col de la Bonette is one of Europe’s highest road passes. Its ascent represents a major accomplishment for cyclists.

Isola 2000

The climb to Isola 2000 is also a challenging one, with substantial elevation gain and gradients that test the endurance and skill of cyclists. The climb is around 16 kilometres long with an average gradient of about 6.5%.

Spectacular panoramas

The Col de la Bonette offers breathtaking views of the French Alps. As you climb, you can admire alpine scenery, verdant valleys, snow-capped peaks and flowery meadows. The pass is within the Mercantour National Park, an unspoilt nature reserve with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The tranquility and natural beauty of the park add to the appeal of this climb.

Part 3: Riding and spectating Stage 20 Tour de France 2024 (20 July 2024)

Distance

133 kilometres

Metres of climbing

4,600 metres

Route details

Stage 20 is the final mountain stage of the Tour de France 2024. It takes place on Saturday 20th July and sees the peloton ride 133 kilometres from Nice to Col de la Couillole, traversing challenging terrain in between.

After leaving the azure hues of the Mediterranean Sea, the riders will begin their ascent into the mountains, home to countless snow-capped peaks, Alpine meadows and dense forests.

Riders take on three iconic passes on the official route, the Col de Braus (1,002 metres), Col de Turini (1,607 metres) and Col de la Colmiane (1,500 metres).

The 20th stage finishes with a race to the summit of the Col de la Couillole (1,678 metres), which featured the Tour de France 1975 and the 2017 and 2023 Paris-Nice. The Col de la Couillole’s steep gradients and challenging hairpin turns make it a climb that’s become revered for its difficulty.

What makes Stage 20 special?

Legendary climbs

This monumental stage includes four famous climbs in one route: Col de Braus, Col de Turini, Col de la Colmiane and, finally, the mountaintop finish at the Col de la Couillole.

Technical challenges at altitude

Stage 20 presents cyclists with a variety of technical challenges: winding descents, tight switchbacks, and narrow mountain roads will all feature on this stage. If you’re in the peloton and racing this stage full gas, rather than just riding it on holiday like us amateurs, negotiating these obstacles not only requires skill and concentration, but nerves of steel.

Penultimate stage

The fact this stage comes the day before the final individual time trial means the pros are likely to be pushing harder than ever for position and place.

Christian Prudhomme says of the stage “The Paris-Nice regulars will be racing over familiar terrain, but that won’t make things any easier if the contest for the Yellow Jersey is still raging, particularly over such a short distance…We’ll all be holding our breath!”

Expect drama!

Spectating Stage 20

Alpine stages are always exciting for cycling fans because the riders are going slowly enough that you can really see them and witness professional racing up close in a spectacular mountain setting.

As Stage 20 will be the penultimate stage, the atmosphere is likely to be particularly tense and electric!

Spectators will line the roadside, cheering on their favourite riders and soaking in the atmosphere of this iconic stage. They’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to memorable places to base themselves for the day.

Top tip! If you plan to head into the mountains to see the riders test their endurance on the big climbs, don’t forget that the weather can change quickly at altitude and can often be a lot cooler than the coast. Take warm layers.

You can find information on Stage 20 road closures here.

Étape du Tour on Stage 20

Since it began in 1993, L’Étape du Tour has promised cyclists the opportunity to experience the myth of the Grande Boucle, on the same roads and under the same conditions as the professional cyclists of the Tour de France.

L’Étape du Tour 2024 will be the 32nd edition of the cyclosportive, taking place on July 7, 2024 on the route of stage 20: Nice – Col de la Couillole.

This year it will involve cycling 138km with nearly 4,600m of climbing in the splendid scenery of the Nice hinterland, with the ascent of four cols, including the famous Col de Turini, before attacking the final climb to the Col de la Couillole.

The race starts in front of the Théatre de Verdure in Nice on roads that are totally closed to traffic. With 31 editions and a field of 16,000 participants of 92 nationalities, the Etape du Tour de France is now the most famous cyclosportive in Europe.

Read tips for taking part in the 2024 Etape.

How to ride Tour de France 2024 Stage 20: Nice to Col de la Couillole

More than 4,500 metres of climbing await those eager to sample stage 20 of the Tour de France 2024. This is a challenging paved mountain journey that’s appropriate for experienced road cyclists looking for a Tour de France bike tour that will challenge them.

This 133 kilometre journey takes you from the coastal city of Nice into the heart of the Alpes Maritimes. In between you’ll face several challenging mountain passes, including Braus and Colmiane. You’ll need to set off early in the day to make sure you have time to tick them all off!

With the route reaching high altitude in the mountains, the best time to take it on is from spring to autumn when you can expect more favourable mountain conditions. Be warned! Conditions in the mountains can vary greatly from the warm coast, so don’t forget to pack a suitable wind resistant jacket to keep you protected.

Along the way there are several places for a pitstop to refuel, including the historic town of Sospel ahead of the Col de Turini, as well as Saint Martin Vésubie ahead of riding through a ski resort home to the Col de la Colmiane. Make sure you also take enough food with you, so you can be self-sufficient in between.

More information

You can find out more about the Nice to Col de la Couillole route, and find a GPS route for Stage 20, here.

Tour de France 2024 Stage 20: multi-day route version

Like the look of stage 20 and the iconic climbs it offers, but want a more manageable option? This journey can also be broken up to make it less intense and achievable.

Round trips can be made from Nice to two iconic passes: the Col de Turini and Col de Braus. Or for those feeling they can go a little further you can combine both of these climbs for a journey of 120 kilometres and 3,000 metres of ascent.

Alternatively, the village of Saint Martin Vésubie is just an hour and thirty minutes from Nice by car and makes a great base for an overnight stop. From here you can take a round trip of 45 km and 1,800m climbing to conquer the Col de la Colmiane and Col de la Couillole.

Part 4: Riding and spectating Stage 21 Tour de France 2024 (Sunday 21 July 2024)

Distance

34 kilometres

Metres of climbing

650 metres

Route details

The final stage of the Tour de France 2024 will start in Monaco on Sunday 21st July. It will see the pros take on a 34-km time trial route that culminates in Nice, via La Turbie and the Col d’Eze, offering an exciting finish to the world’s most famous cycling race.

What makes Stage 21 special?

Iconic start and finish locations

The affluent city–state of Monaco provides a fitting backdrop for the start of stage 21. Perched on the Mediterranean Sea, the Principality has a picturesque setting with its harbour home to many luxury yachts, and iconic landmarks including the Monte Carlo Casino.

As the stage concludes in Nice, riders are treated to the full beauty of the French Riviera, with its palm-lined promenades, azure waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Scenic route and mountain time trial

The route from Monaco to Nice winds along the coastline of the French Riviera, boasting breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. From panoramic roads, riders look out over charming seaside towns such as Cap d’Ail, Eze, Beaulieu, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat and Villefranche sur Mer.

While the stage features some flat sections along the coast, it also includes the climb to La Turbie and Col d’Eze.

The final climb of the Tour de France 2024 will be the famous and history-laden Col d’Eze (508 metres). It promises to be an exciting final climb before the big descent into the city.

Legendary places and a historic finale

Both Nice and Monaco have a rich history within the Tour de France. 2024 will be the eighth time Monaco has hosted a stage. It’s the 39th time that Nice has done the same.

They’re also both iconic destinations in their own right.

As the final stage of the Tour de France, Stage 21 often carries added drama and excitement as riders vie for stage victory and overall honours. The sprint into Nice promises to provide a unique coastal backdrop and historic finish to conclude three weeks of racing.

How to ride Tour de France 2024 Stage 21: Monaco to Nice

The final stage of the Tour de France 2024 is a short and sharp 34 kilometre route, with two major climbs standing in between the cities of Monaco and Nice.

Whilst the climbs on this route aren’t high altitude, the climb of La Turbie (480 metres), followed closely by the Col d’Eze (508 metres) are not to be underestimated! This is a challenging coastal journey on paved roads that is best suited for road cyclists looking for a good day out on the bikes.

In between there are plenty of places to grab food, including La Turbie, Eze, and the resort town of Villefranche-sur-mer.

More information

If you want to ride the route yourself, this route is similar, but not identical. Usefully, it’s a round trip to Nice rather than an out and back.

Part 5: Planning a cycling trip to Nice

Why cycle Nice (during the Tour de France 2024 and afterwards)?

Cycling-friendly climate

Nice enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sunshine and relatively warm temperatures year-round. This makes cycling enjoyable almost any time of the year, although spring and autumn are particularly popular seasons due to milder weather and fewer tourists.

The region gets magnificent plants and flowers all year long, thanks to its Mediterranean climate, but in spring you tend to find even more abundance of blooming flowers. Its also means rides with snowy peaks views. There is nothing better than cycling on the coast with the view of the snowy Southern Alps (just 1.5 hours away by car) combined with the blue of the sea.

Autumn offers warm temperatures and vibrant colours especially at sunset. It is also a great time to explore the roads in higher altitudes before it snows for the winter season.

Scenic routes and varied terrain

Nice is surrounded by nature and you’ll find the cycling near Nice excellent, with quieter roads, azure waters of the Mediterranean and the rugged peaks of the Maritime Alps, on your doorstep.

The French Riviera is renowned for its dramatic coastal views, picturesque hilltop villages, and scenic countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves.

There are both flat coastal roads for leisurely rides and challenging climbs fit for the pros. This means cyclists can find a range of Nice cycling routes and terrain suited to their preferences and skill levels.

With so many great cycling routes to explore throughout the year, Nice has become a popular playground for cyclists of all disciplines and abilities.

Cycling infrastructure

The region has many well-maintained roads and a network of cycling paths. You can find many routes on the Outdoor Active website, here. 

This makes cycling around Nice a safe and convenient place to explore by bike. Leaving the city by bike is easy when you know how: the ideal place to start your bike trip is the iconic Promenade des Anglais. From there you’ll reach the cycling path which goes along the sea. Now it is your choice to go either right to Cap d’Antibes, Cannes or to the famous Col de Vence – or left to go to the coastal and perched villages, Eze, or to the famous Col de Turini and Col de Braus.

Cyclists can also find ample amenities such as bike rentals, repair shops, and cyclist-friendly accommodation throughout the area (more on that below!).

Cycling heritage

Nice is no stranger to hosting the world’s biggest races. The city hosted the Grand Depart on two previous occasions, first in 1981 and most recently in 2020. It’s also home to the annual Paris-Nice race. With the Tour de France 2024 finish in Nice, riding here lets you connect with the city’s cycling history and heritage.

Cycling culture

Nice has a vibrant cycling culture with numerous cycling events, clubs, and group rides taking place. Whether you’re a solo rider or prefer the camaraderie of riding with others, you’ll find a welcoming community of cyclists in the area.

Cycling shops where it is possible to grab a coffee and rent a bike:

• Café du Cycliste, Coffee and Shop in the port of Nice
• The Service Course, Coffee, and Shop in the old town “Vieux Nice”

Tips for planning other cycling routes in Nice

Nice isn’t all about classic climbs and road cycling! There are lots of alternate Nice cycling routes suitable for a range of cyclists. One famous route is the EuroVelo 8, which weaves its way through Nice and the surrounding Côte d’Azur landscapes.

The EuroVelo 8 – Cannes to Nice

The EuroVelo 8 (EV8), also known as the “Mediterranean by bike”, is a 5,900 kilometre European cycle route crossing 11 countries along the Mediterranean coast between Spain and Greece.

Designed to enable cyclists to discover this Mediterranean arc at their own pace, it takes in a variety of idyllic scenery and rich heritage. Sections of the EuroVelo 8 take in the city of Nice and the beautiful surrounding Mediterranean coastline.

For cyclists looking for an easy, beginner friendly option, the 37 kilometre journey from Cannes to Nice is ideal. Featuring very little elevation, you’ll ride between two of the French Riviera’s most iconic cities.

After riding the famous Promenade des Anglais, you’ll cycle your way to the city of Cagnes sur Mer with its family vibe on the coast. After Cagnes sur Mer, keep cycling to the city of Antibes where you can enjoy a nice break in the old town. Antibes is beautiful and very interesting: historic ramparts, Provencal market and Picasso museum, it is a must see on the coast! The Cap d’Antibes offers beautiful roads with spectacular sea views. Before arriving in Cannes, you’ll pass Juan les Pins and Golfe Juan which are famous for the sandy beaches and lively bars et restaurants.

Finally, you have arrived in Cannes! Famous for its Film Festival, the Croisette with its palaces, luxury boutiques and beaches. Don’t miss a visit to the old Suquet district for a breathtaking view of the city and harbour.

Each stage of this route offers diverse scenery and opportunities to stop and enjoy local culture, gastronomy and outdoor activities. Be sure to take your time exploring these jewels of the Côte d’Azur.

More information

You can find out more about the Cannes to Nice route here.

The EuroVelo 8 – Nice to Menton

For something a little more challenging, this 38 kilometre route takes in the Col d’Èze and features an elevation gain of 561 metres.

Cyclists will enjoy epic panoramic views of the coast as their reward! A great option for cyclists with a good level of fitness who are keen to sample a section of the EuroVelo 8.

After leaving Nice, you’ll start climbing to the famous Col d’Eze. Keep in mind that this 38km ride is all about the stunning panoramic views. You will amazed by the beauty of the coast and as you climb higher and higher, you’ll catch the horizon of the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the peaks of the Southern Alps on the other side.

This ride will pass the village of La Turbie which is where you might cross the path of a professional cyclist, training during the winter for example. Monaco is not far; you will see it from the road above and it makes an interesting viewpoint. There is also the possibility to ride through Monaco for those who would like to. A few kilometres after Monaco, the Italian border is not far and just before you will discover the charming and colourful town of Menton.

More information

You can find out more about the Nice to Menton route here.

For more Nice cycling routes, check out our guide to cycling Nice.

How to find cycling friendly accommodation in Nice

Nice Côte d’Azur is home to many cycling friendly places to stay that have been awarded the Accueil Vélo label.

This certification typically guarantees the availability of facilities and services designed for cyclists and their bikes. Depending on the particular accommodation, this might include secure parking areas and covered premises, repair and pump kits, tourist information, sockets for recharging your electric bike or your telephone, and luggage transfer services.

To get started planning your Nice bike tour take a look here. We also share our favourite places to stay in Nice, here.

Don’t forget to book well ahead if you’re planning to visit during the Tour de France Nice finale weekend!

Are there bike shops and bike hire in Nice?

Yes, there are many options for bike shops and bike rental in Nice, which makes hiring a bike, or fixing a mechanical in Nice, and the surrounding areas, easy. We have shops providing all kinds of bike hire options to suit your needs – from road bikes to e bikes and mountain bikes.

Take a look at these options here to get started.

Take note! If you’re planning your trip to coincide with the Tour de France 2024 bike rentals in Nice, France may be limited due to a high volume of interest at this time. Best to plan and book ahead to avoid disappointment

What is the best time of year for cycling in Nice?

The beauty of Nice Côte d’Azur’s pleasant year-round climate means all seasons are great for cycling.

Each season offers different experience and possibilities.

Spring and autumn are ideal to ride on the coastal roads, as well as the smaller cols of Turini and Braus. The weather during these times tends to be mild and comfortable for outdoor activities like cycling.

In particular, April to June and September to October are ideal months for cycling in Nice, as the temperatures are typically pleasant, and there’s less chance of encountering extreme heat. The countryside is often at its beautiful at these times, with spring blooms and autumn foliage at their peak.

If you prefer warmer weather, summer can also be a good time for cycling in Nice. This is especially important if you would like to climb roads at higher altitude, such as the Col de la Couillole. For those eager to experience the buzz of the Tour de France, July is going to be an extra special time to visit Nice, with the pros in town from the 20th – 21st July, 2024.

Take note! Most of the climbs near Nice stay open year around, but you might well find snow at the tops during winter. Col de Turini has a small ski resort, so while the road is rarely closed, it might be icy at this time of year.

Despite this, so long as you are happy to take your chances with the big climbs, winter is also a great choice for cycling in Nice. There are typically less people around and you get a similar experience to the shoulder seasons. Temperatures are usually mild and the weather is very sunny. It’s the perfect timing of the year to get Vitamin D with fresh air!

Do you need an organised cycling tour of Nice?

There are benefits to organised cycling tours of Nice Côte d’Azur. This is particularly the case if you want to ride or spectate the Tour over the final stage weekend, as it can take some of the uncertainty out of logistics.

However an organised tour is not necessarily needed to enjoy the area.

They also come with some potential drawbacks too, including reduced flexibility and ability to tailor the itinerary to suit your own needs.

This article contains more information about planning a cycling tour around the Tour de France. Please also refer to our article on guided/self-guided tours for further suggestions on the pros and cons of organising a guided cycling tour.

What are your packing tips for cyclists visiting Nice?

When planning a bike tour of Nice, check the weather forecast, but it’s usually safe to assume you’ll be preparing for more sunny days than rainy days.

Sunscreen, a cycling cap, sunglasses and a comfy pair of cycling shorts/ bibs will keep you comfortable in the warm, sunny conditions.

For those heading into the mountains prepare for conditions to be a little different than the coast. A windproof jacket is therefore a must have item to keep you warm as you descend!

Please refer to our packing guide for further suggestions on what to pack for a cycling holiday.

Any other tips for a Nice cycling trip?

Opening hours in France

Opening hours in France can vary according to the type of shop, location and local regulations. However, here are a few general points:

• Department stores and shopping centres: These often have fairly long opening hours, generally from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Monday to Saturday. Some may be open on Sunday mornings.
• Small shops and independent boutiques: Their opening hours may vary more, but many open around 9:00 or 10:00 and close around 19:00. Some may be closed for lunch, usually from 12:00 to 14:00. Also be aware that some may close for the summer holidays, though this is less common in the big towns.
• Bakeries: These often have early hours, opening as early as 6:00 or 7:00 a.m., but may be closed for lunch. They usually close around 19:00 in the evening.
• Public holidays and Sundays: Opening hours may be reduced on public holidays, and some shops may be closed. However, in tourist areas or major cities, some shops remain open.

Do you need to speak French?

English is spoken widely by many French people in Nice Côte d’Azur, especially in restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions.

Food to try when in Nice

Nice benefits from a simple yet delicious Mediterranean diet of fresh salads, grilled fish, seasonal vegetables, olive oil and local wine. The local dishes here are perfect for fuelling you up after a day in the saddle!

When choosing restaurants, look out for “Cuisine Nissarde, le respect de la tradition” label. This has been awarded to places that respect local recipes and cook with the best raw local ingredients. There are now more than 30 restaurants that have this label!

Some local dishes well worth a try include:

• Salade niçoise: A fresh, colourful salad of tomatoes, peppers, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, anchovies, celery, olives and sometimes green beans. It offers an explosion of Mediterranean flavours and plenty of protein to fuel your next day in the saddle.
• Socca: A traditional Nice dish made with chickpea flour, water, olive oil and salt. It’s a kind of thick, crispy pancake, served hot and often sprinkled with pepper.
• Pan bagnat: A classic sandwich from Nice, made with round bread and filled with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, onions, olives, anchovies and olive oil. Perfect for packing in your panniers for a picnic!
• Pissaladière: An onion tart made with bread dough and topped with candied onions, anchovies, black olives and olive oil. A tasty, fragrant treat, often served as an aperitif.
• Farcis niçois: Seasonal vegetables (such as zucchinis, tomatoes, peppers and onions) stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, bread, garlic, parsley and olive oil, then slow cooked. A deliciously comforting dish.
• Tourte de blettes: Although often a sweet and savoury dish, this pie can also be served in a sweet version. It’s made with chard (a variety of Swiss chard), pine nuts, raisins and orange zest, all wrapped in a sweet pastry. It’s a traditional dessert of the Nice region.
• Sweet Fougasse: Fougasse is a traditional Provencal bread, often combined with savoury versions. However, there are also sweet versions of fougasse, filled with sugar, dried fruit, citrus zest or even chocolate. A delicious treat for lovers of sweet bread.
• Fruits confits de Nice: Although not a specifically Nice creation, the city is renowned for its delicious, candied fruits. Oranges, lemons and other fruits are candied in sugar to create deliciously sweet and tangy confections, perfect as a dessert or snack to fuel you up those mountain climbs!

Wine to try when in Nice

The Bellet hillsides near Nice produce outstanding red, rosé and white wines, making Nice the only major city in France to boast an appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC since 1941). Attractive tours for individuals and groups offer the opportunity to discover traditional production methods.

Places to visit (when not on the bike)

The vibrant city and surrounding landscapes of Nice Côte d’Azur are packed with must-see places to visit, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, history, culture and gastronomy.

Here are just a few of the places you shouldn’t miss on your cycling holiday to Nice…

• The Promenade des Anglais: This famous seafront promenade stretches for several kilometers along Nice’s Baie des Anges. Perfect for strolling, cycling, admiring the view of the Mediterranean Sea or simply relaxing on the beach. Head here to watch the pros on the thrilling final stretch of the Tour de France 2024, or soak it up at your own pace at a quieter time!
• Vieux Nice: Lose yourself in the narrow, picturesque streets of Vieux Nice, where you’ll find a lively atmosphere, colourful buildings, flower markets, artisanal stores and a multitude of cafés and restaurants.
• La Colline du Château: This hill overlooking Nice offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, bay and surrounding mountains. You can reach it on foot, by elevator or by taking the stairs, and once at the top, you can stroll through the gardens and explore the ruins of the medieval castle.
• Nice Flower Market (Cours Saleya): This colourful market is held every day except Monday. It offers a wide variety of flowers, as well as fruit, vegetables and local produce. A great place to discover the flavours and colours of the region.
• Musée Matisse: Dedicated to the famous French artist Henri Matisse, this museum houses an exceptional collection of his works, as well as personal objects and documents relating to his life and work.
• Musée Marc Chagall: Another not-to-be-missed art museum in Nice, featuring a remarkable collection of works by Russian painter Marc Chagall, including his famous biblical paintings.
• Place Masséna: Nice’s main square, famous for its magnificent Belle Époque buildings, illuminated fountains and modern sculptures. It’s a lively place where cultural events and festivals often take place.

Looking for some memorable places outside of the city? Here are some suggestions to get started…

• Eze: The charming village of Eze sits atop a steep cliff and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Explore its cobbled streets, visit the Exotic Garden with its incredible array of tropical plants and discover local crafts in the village boutiques.
• Vence: Set in the hills of Nice’s hinterland, the village of Vence is a medieval gem with timeless charm and a peaceful ambience. Surrounded by ancient ramparts, its narrow cobbled streets are an invitation to stroll, revealing architectural treasures such as the Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativité, an 11th-century Romanesque masterpiece. Shady squares and fountains are found here, while local craft stores and art galleries offer a contemporary feel. Don’t forget to visit the Chapelle du Rosaire: designed and decorated by Matisse, this chapel is lit up by stunning stained glass windows, and is considered by the painter himself to be his masterpiece.
• Villefranche sur Mer: This coastal village is found between Nice and Monaco and is bursting with Mediterranean charm and maritime ambience. Its narrow-cobbled streets are home to quaint, colourful houses with wooden shutters.

 

Thank you Léa for sharing these insights. We can’t wait to see Nice Côte d’Azur host the grand finale of the Tour de France 2024 and hope this guide has you feeling inspired to get involved, whether as a spectator or by taking on your own bike trip in Nice!

If you book a trip to Nice, do let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you get on!

If you’re looking for further inspiration, check out 15 must read tips for cycling Nice or this dedicated guide to cycling the Col du Turini.