Nice Airport

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is a major gateway not only to the French Riviera but also to several ski resorts in the southern French Alps. Located about 7 km from central Nice, it is France’s third-busiest airport and offers extensive connections across Europe and beyond. Its coastal setting makes arrivals memorable, while its modern facilities and efficient transport links make onward travel straightforward for winter sports visitors.

Although better known for summer tourism, the airport is an important access point for ski areas such as Isola 2000, Auron, and Valberg, all reachable in roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by car. These resorts form part of the Alpes-Maritimes region and are popular for short ski breaks thanks to their proximity to the Mediterranean. Farther north, larger Alpine destinations in the Hautes-Alpes and even parts of Italy can be reached in 2–3 hours.

Car hire desks are available in both terminals, and private transfers and shared shuttles operate throughout the winter season. Some visitors even combine skiing and coastal stays in one trip, enjoying mountain snow and Riviera sunshine on the same holiday. With frequent flights and easy road access to nearby ski areas, Nice Airport offers a convenient and scenic entry point for skiing in the southern Alps.

Getting to and from Nice Airport

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport has an extensive network of international and domestic flights. The airport serves major cities across Europe, including London, Paris, Rome and Amsterdam, as well as seasonal long-haul routes to North America and the Middle East. Airlines range from full-service carriers to low-cost options, making it accessible for both business and leisure travellers. Located just a few kilometres from central Nice on the Mediterranean coast, the airport is one of the main gateways to the French Riviera. Clear signage, efficient terminals and good onward transport links make arrival by air smooth and convenient.

Nice Airport (NCE) Car Parking

Car parking at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is convenient, with a range of options for short and long stays across both terminals. The closest car parks are P1 near Terminal 1 and P5/P6 near Terminal 2, all within easy walking distance of departures and arrivals. These are ideal for short trips, business travel or quick drop-offs. The cost for short stays will be around €25–€35 for a full day, or €180-€250+ depending on the exact car park and season.

For longer stays, P8 and P9 offer more economical parking a little farther from the terminals, with free shuttle buses running regularly to both terminals. There are also express drop-off zones for quick passenger drop-offs, along with dedicated disabled parking spaces and electric-vehicle charging points in several car parks. More distant long-stay car parks like P8, P9 or eco/remote parking offer better value and usually include a shuttle to the terminals. Costs for long stay car parks are about €15–€25 per day, or roughly €80–€140 for one week if booked in advance online.

Ski Destinations from Nice Airport

The nearest ski resorts to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport are in the southern French Alps, making it possible to reach the mountains in under two hours. Isola 2000 and Auron are the closest major resorts, both about 90 minutes to 2 hours by car, offering varied pistes and reliable snow. Valberg is another nearby option, popular for families and beginners. Slightly farther north, resorts such as Pra-Loup and Vars/Risoul can be reached in around 2.5 to 3 hours. With regular winter transfers, car hire and good road access, Nice Airport provides a convenient gateway to skiing in the sunny southern Alps.

Car Rental Options at Nice Airport

Car hire at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is a popular option for travellers exploring the French Riviera or heading to nearby ski resorts in the southern Alps. Major international companies such as Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise and Budget operate from desks in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 arrivals areas, making collection quick and convenient after landing.

A wide range of vehicles is available, from compact city cars ideal for coastal driving to larger family cars, automatics, SUVs and vans. In winter, many providers offer optional extras such as snow chains or winter tyres for those travelling to mountain resorts like Isola 2000 or Auron.

Prices vary depending on season and vehicle type, but booking in advance online usually secures the best deals and ensures availability during busy summer and winter periods. Most companies require a driving licence, ID and credit card for deposit. Hiring a car at Nice Airport provides flexibility and is often the easiest way to explore the Riviera and surrounding mountains.

Airlines flying from Nice Airport

easyJet	Website
KLM	Website
Air France	Website
Jet2	Website
Emirates	Website
British Airways	Website
Ryanair	Website
Lufthansa	Website
Swiss International Air Lines	Website