Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Nice, France? (A Complete Guide)

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Cruise Ships Dock in Nice, France

The French Riviera is a popular destination for cruise ships, and Nice is one of the most popular ports of call. With its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and vibrant city life, Nice has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we will take a closer look at where cruise ships dock in Nice, France. We will also provide information on the different types of cruises that depart from Nice, as well as the things to see and do in the city.

So if you’re planning a cruise to the French Riviera, be sure to add Nice to your itinerary!

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Nice France?

| Cruise Ship Terminal | Location | Capacity |
|—|—|—|
| Terminal 1 | Quai Rauba Capeu | 1,000 passengers |
| Terminal 2 | Quai des tats-Unis | 1,500 passengers |
| Terminal 3 | Quai Lunel | 1,500 passengers |

Ports of Call for Cruise Ships in Nice

The French Riviera is a popular destination for cruise ships, and there are several ports of call in the region. The following are the main ports of call for cruise ships in Nice:

  • Port of Nice
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer
  • Monaco
  • Antibes

Port of Nice

The Port of Nice is the largest port in the French Riviera and one of the busiest cruise ship ports in Europe. It is located on the eastern side of the city, just a short walk from the city center. The port has a capacity of over 2 million passengers per year and can accommodate ships of up to 360 meters in length.

The Port of Nice offers a variety of facilities and amenities for cruise passengers, including a passenger terminal, shopping and dining options, and transportation links to the city center. The passenger terminal is located at the western end of the port and has a capacity of up to 6,000 passengers. The terminal features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a currency exchange, a duty-free shop, and a tourist information center.

The Port of Nice is also well connected to the city center by public transportation. There are a number of bus and tram stops located near the port, and the city center is just a short walk away.

Villefranche-sur-Mer

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a small town located on the French Riviera, just a few miles east of Nice. The town is known for its beautiful harbor, which is lined with colorful buildings and yachts. The harbor is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, and many ships dock here for a day or two.

The town of Villefranche-sur-Mer has a population of around 30,000 people and is a popular tourist destination. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, its charming old town, and its lively nightlife.

The harbor in Villefranche-sur-Mer is a popular spot for cruise ships to dock. The harbor is large and can accommodate ships of all sizes. The town is also a short walk from the harbor, making it easy for passengers to explore the city.

Monaco

Monaco is a small principality located on the French Riviera. The country is known for its beautiful coastline, its luxury hotels, and its casinos. Monaco is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, and many ships dock here for a day or two.

The port of Monaco is located in the heart of the city. The port is small but can accommodate ships of all sizes. The port is also close to the city center, making it easy for passengers to explore the city.

Monaco is a popular destination for cruise ships because it offers a unique experience. The country is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and casinos in the world. The city is also known for its beautiful coastline and its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Antibes

Antibes is a city located on the French Riviera, just a few miles west of Nice. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, its charming old town, and its lively nightlife. Antibes is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, and many ships dock here for a day or two.

The port of Antibes is located on the eastern side of the city. The port is large and can accommodate ships of all sizes. The port is also close to the city center, making it easy for passengers to explore the city.

Antibes is a popular destination for cruise ships because it offers a variety of attractions. The city has beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and a lively nightlife. The city is also close to Nice, which is a major tourist destination.

Facilities and Amenities at Cruise Ship Ports in Nice

The ports of call for cruise ships in Nice offer a variety of facilities and amenities for passengers. These include:

  • Docking facilities. The ports of Nice are equipped with docking facilities for ships of all sizes. The facilities include berths, gangways, and cranes.
  • Passenger terminals. The ports of Nice have passenger terminals that provide passengers with a variety of amenities, including check-in facilities, baggage claim, shopping, dining, and restrooms.
  • Shopping and dining. The ports of Nice offer a variety of shopping and dining options for passengers. There are a variety of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and other items. There are also a variety of restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
  • Transportation. The ports of Nice are well connected to the city center by public transportation. There are a number of bus and tram stops located near the ports, and the city center is just a short walk away.

The ports of Nice offer a variety of facilities

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Nice, France?

There are two cruise ship terminals in Nice, France:

  • Quai des tats-Unis (Quay of the United States) is located in the heart of Nice, just a short walk from the Promenade des Anglais and the beach. This terminal is used by most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises.
  • Port Lympia (Port Lympia) is located about 2 miles (3 km) from the city center. This terminal is smaller than Quai des tats-Unis and is used by smaller cruise lines, such as MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises.

Both terminals offer a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and bars. Quai des tats-Unis also has a casino and a spa.

Things to Do in Nice and the Surrounding Area

Nice is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Here are a few of the top things to do in Nice and the surrounding area:

  • Explore the Old Town. The Old Town is the heart of Nice and is home to a variety of historical buildings, including the Cathdrale Sainte-Rparate and the Palais Lascaris. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
  • Visit the Promenade des Anglais. The Promenade des Anglais is a famous waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a great place to go for a walk, people-watch, or have a picnic.
  • Take a swim at the beach. Nice has a number of beautiful beaches, including the Plage de la Croisette and the Plage du Port. The water is warm and the sand is soft, making it the perfect place to relax and cool off.
  • Visit the Muse Matisse. The Muse Matisse is a museum dedicated to the work of Henri Matisse, one of the most famous French artists. The museum houses a large collection of Matisse’s paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
  • Take a day trip to Monaco. Monaco is a small principality located just a short drive from Nice. It’s home to the world-famous Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Casino. It’s also a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors.

Planning Your Cruise to Nice

When planning your cruise to Nice, there are a few things you need to consider:

  • When to go: The best time to visit Nice is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and the water is warm enough for swimming. However, it can be very crowded during this time of year. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, from April to May or October to November.
  • Choosing a cruise ship: There are a variety of cruise ships that offer cruises to Nice. When choosing a cruise ship, consider the size of the ship, the amenities offered, and the itinerary. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, consider choosing a larger ship with more amenities. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider choosing a smaller ship with fewer amenities.
  • Booking your cruise: You can book your cruise directly with a cruise line or through a travel agent. When booking your cruise, consider the length of the cruise, the departure port, and the price.

Nice is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a more active city break, Nice has something for everyone. With its stunning beaches, charming Old Town, and lively nightlife, Nice is the perfect destination for a cruise vacation.

Where do cruise ships dock in Nice, France?

There are two main cruise ship terminals in Nice, France:

  • Quai des tats-Unis (Quay of the United States) is the main cruise ship terminal in Nice, located on the eastern edge of the city center. It is served by several public transportation options, including buses, trams, and the Nice Cte d’Azur Airport shuttle.
  • Port Lympia (Port of Lympia) is a smaller cruise ship terminal located on the western edge of the city center. It is served by a limited number of public transportation options, including buses and the Nice Cte d’Azur Airport shuttle.

Which cruise ship terminal is better?

The best cruise ship terminal for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Quai des tats-Unis is larger and has more amenities, while Port Lympia is smaller and more intimate.

Quai des tats-Unis is located closer to the city center, making it easier to access shops, restaurants, and other attractions. It is also served by more public transportation options, making it easier to get to and from the terminal. However, Quai des tats-Unis can be crowded during peak season, and it may be difficult to find a parking spot.

Port Lympia is located further from the city center, but it is also less crowded. It is also a more scenic location, with views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Nice coastline. Port Lympia is not served by as many public transportation options as Quai des tats-Unis, but there is a free shuttle bus that runs between the terminal and the city center.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which cruise ship terminal is right for you is to consider your individual needs and preferences.

What are the amenities at the cruise ship terminals?

Both cruise ship terminals in Nice, France offer a variety of amenities, including:

  • Ticket offices
  • Baggage check-in
  • Security screening
  • Duty-free shops
  • Restaurants
  • Bars
  • Wi-Fi

Quai des tats-Unis also has a children’s play area, a post office, and a currency exchange. Port Lympia has a small museum dedicated to the history of Nice’s maritime heritage.

How can I get to the cruise ship terminals?

There are several ways to get to the cruise ship terminals in Nice, France:

  • By public transportation: Quai des tats-Unis is served by several public transportation options, including buses, trams, and the Nice Cte d’Azur Airport shuttle. Port Lympia is served by a limited number of public transportation options, including buses and the Nice Cte d’Azur Airport shuttle.
  • By taxi: Taxis are available from all major hotels and train stations in Nice. The fare from the city center to Quai des tats-Unis is approximately 20, and the fare from the city center to Port Lympia is approximately 15.
  • By car: There is a paid parking lot at Quai des tats-Unis. Port Lympia does not have a parking lot, but there is a free shuttle bus that runs between the terminal and the city center.

What are the hours of operation for the cruise ship terminals?

The cruise ship terminals in Nice, France are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, some of the amenities, such as restaurants and shops, may have shorter hours of operation.

What are the security procedures at the cruise ship terminals?

All passengers and their luggage must be screened before boarding a cruise ship. Security procedures may include:

  • Passing through a metal detector
  • Having your luggage X-rayed
  • Answering questions from a security officer

Passengers who are found to be carrying prohibited items, such as weapons or drugs, may be denied boarding.

What are the prohibited items at the cruise ship terminals?

The following items are prohibited at the cruise ship terminals in Nice, France:

  • Weapons
  • Drugs
  • Explosives
  • Flammable materials
  • Sharp objects
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Glass containers
  • Pets

Passengers who are found to be carrying prohibited items may be denied boarding.

there are three main cruise ship ports in Nice, France:

  • Nice Port is the largest and most central port, located just a short walk from the city center. It offers a wide variety of facilities and services, including shops, restaurants, and a casino.
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer is a smaller port located about 10 kilometers from Nice. It is known for its beautiful scenery and charming old town.
  • Saint-Laurent-du-Var is the newest port, located about 15 kilometers from Nice. It is a popular destination for cruise ships that offer a variety of shore excursions.

No matter which port you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Nice, France. With its beautiful scenery, charming old towns, and delicious food, it’s no wonder that Nice is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.