Pros and Cons of Using the Lignes d’Azur App and Cards in Nice, France
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The Lignes d’Azur Digital Metro Card: A Pleasant Surprise
One of the standout features of the Lignes d’Azur app is that the digital metro card doesn’t require data to work. This is a game-changer for us! Normally, when traveling, we try to limit our data usage to keep ourselves more immersed in the moment rather than constantly scrolling through social media or updating ourselves on the latest news. The fact that we could access and use the app offline meant one less thing to worry about and more time for exploring. Data wise, we did get a plan via Airalo, which was significantly cheaper than getting a plan through our US carrier and worked well for us on previous trips and followers whom have tried it! Use code "THETRE9369" for discounts!
However, there are still perks to having the physical card. For example, we were able to easily scan a physical card into the app and top up tickets directly while connected to Wi-Fi. It's a handy feature that allows you to manage both digital and physical cards in one place. I was even able to scan my card through my jacket or purse rather than taking it out for scanning. Do scan ever time you board as there are frequent ticket checkers! Every time we encounter an official ticket checker, someone always got caught for not tapping/ purchasing a ticket. Apparently, it's a hefty fine up to 100 Euros that you had to pay on the spot.
The 14-Day Pass: Worth Every Euro!
One thing we didn’t realize until after our first day was how cost-effective the 14-day pass would be. At 36 euros, it was an amazing deal considering we use public transportation at least twice a day—sometimes more when we’re out exploring the surrounding areas.
Doing the math, we figured out that the pass only needs to cover 22 trips to make it worthwhile, and we're definitely on track to exceed that. (We ended up doing roughly 56 trips in 2 weeks! The metro even took us all the way to Eze!) It’s a relief not to worry about constantly buying individual tickets. Plus, it keeps us flexible and spontaneous. We're able to hop on a tram or bus whenever the mood strikes!
Unfortunately, we didn’t spot this option when we first arrived. Feeling rushed at the ticket kiosk, we ended up purchasing quick-buy tickets instead of exploring all the available pass options. Lesson learned: next time, we’ll take our time and check out the full list of options before committing. (And at least we didn’t fall into the trap of paying 10 euros for the airport fare! See our earlier post for details on that mini-adventure.)
A Quirk in the App: Limited Pass Options
While we were playing around with the app, we noticed something odd—my travel buddy only had the option to purchase a 7-day pass for 20 euros through the app, whereas I could get a 14-day pass on my physical card. This inconsistency between the app and the physical card options was a bit confusing, and we’re not entirely sure why the app doesn’t offer the 14-day pass. That said, the 7-day pass was still a solid deal, but if you’re planning to stay longer, it’s worth heading to a physical kiosk to check out the full range of options. If you plan on staying longer than a month, the best deal is the month option, which you'd need to get a different personalized card. Many of our classmates got that card and it works very well for them.
Pro Tip: Take Your Time at the Ticket Kiosks
A tip from us to you: don’t rush when you’re at the ticket kiosks! We get it, the pressure to catch the next train can make you feel like you need to hurry, but there are usually more ticket options available than what’s displayed on the quick-buy screen. Take a deep breath, touch the “next” button, and scroll through the choices to find what’s best for your stay. You might just find a better deal than expected.
A Handy YouTube Resource
If you're planning on using public transport in Nice, we found this great video that explains how the system works and gives you a few extra tips. Check it out here: Lignes d’Azur Tips.
All in all, we’re pretty happy with the system, despite a few quirks, and we’re ready for more adventures around the Côte d’Azur! Stay tuned!
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