Getting Around Nice with Public Transportation: A Seamless Experience!

As The Trekking Pawns, we’re all about making the most of our travels—and that includes figuring out the easiest and most affordable way to get around! During our time in Nice, France, we discovered a few public transportation options that made exploring the C么te d’Azur a breeze. With the city’s modern contactless cards from Lignes d’Azur, getting around has never been easier. Here’s a quick rundown of what we learned and how we plan to use these options during our French adventures.



1. "Ma Carte": The Ultimate Go-To for Regular Travelers

We love the convenience of the "Ma Carte"! This personalized contactless card can be reloaded with ease and comes with your name and photo, so it feels like your very own travel buddy. For just €2, you get a reusable card that allows you to purchase and top up occasional tickets or season passes. Plus, if you ever lose it (we’ve all been there), you can get it replaced along with all the tickets you’ve purchased. Super convenient, right?

Where to get it: You can grab your card at sales offices, mobile agencies, or online. Where to top it up: Choose from vending machines, the mobile app, or any Lignes d’Azur points of sale.

2. "La Carte": Perfect for Occasional Explorers

If you’re more of an occasional traveler, the "La Carte" is for you. It’s just €2, and the best part is, it’s refundable! You can use it to top up with all sorts of ticket options, like Solo trips, Multi Voyages, or day passes. This card is also great if you’re not ready to commit to a season pass but still want to avoid carrying cash or paper tickets.

Where to get it: Sales agencies, mobile agencies, and ticket machines. Where to top it up: Same as "Ma Carte"—you have loads of options, including vending machines and mobile apps.

3. "Solo Secours": Emergency Backup

Let’s face it, sometimes we forget things—like downloading the Lignes d’Azur app or grabbing a card before hopping on a bus. That’s where the "Solo Secours" comes in handy. It’s an emergency card that you can get on board the buses and can be reloaded like the others. The cost is €4 (€2 for the card and €2 for a Solo Secours voucher). It's perfect if you're in a pinch and need a quick travel solution.



4. Sud Azur Explore Pass: Unlimited Travel for C么te d’Azur and Monaco

For us, the Sud Azur Explore Pass is an absolute game-changer! This pass allows unlimited access to buses, trains, and trams across the C么te d’Azur region, including Monaco. It’s an unbeatable deal if you’re planning to explore surrounding areas like Cannes, Antibes, or even Mercantour National Park. You can choose a 3, 7, or 14-day pass, and it’s much cheaper than buying individual tickets or renting a car.

Where to get it: Available in various towns (Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and more) and even Monaco. You can also find these passes in vending machines at tram stations across Nice. We’re definitely considering bundling our travels over a few days with this pass! Go to the following page, scroll to bottom to find locations to purchase: SudAzur Explore Pass |TER SNCF.

Why We Love the Contactless Card System:

  • Convenience: No more fumbling for change or paper tickets! It’s all on one simple card.
  • Cost-effective: Passes like the Sud Azur Explore Pass save money compared to individual tickets.
  • Easy top-ups: Whether at machines, agencies, or on your phone, topping up is quick and simple.

What We’re Packing for Our Public Transport Adventures:

Since we’ll be on and off buses, trains, and trams while exploring, we’re packing light for day trips. Here’s what’s in our bags:

  • Small backpack
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Lightweight jacket (for those cool sea breezes)
  • Portable phone charger (because we’re always taking pics!)
  • Sunscreen (the C么te d’Azur is sunny, even in winter)

Exploring Nice and the surrounding C么te d’Azur area has never been more convenient with these public transportation options. Whether you're sticking around town or venturing out to Monaco and beyond, these contactless cards and passes are a fantastic way to get around effortlessly. We’ll be hopping on trams, buses, and trains while taking in the beauty of this stunning region—happy travels!

Comments

  1. What did you end up doing?

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    Replies
    1. We got the pass with 2 weeks of unlimited travels! If we use it just 2 times a day, it would be worth it!

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