Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB 2026: dates, races and tips

Updated by Équipe niceTrotter2 min read

Nice's biggest running event returns at the end of September: five trail races, city starts and a free village for everyone.

From Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 September 2026, Nice becomes the stage for a UTMB World Series event: the Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB. At the end of summer, after the tourist crowds, it's the perfect weekend to see the city from a different angle: thousands of trail runners across the town and hills.

The races

The event features five races with very different levels, all starting or finishing in Nice:

  • Nice 20K : the most accessible distance.
  • Nice 50K and Nice 50K Levens : the challenging mid-distance, climbing to Levens and the hinterland.
  • Nice 100K : the ultra reference across the metropolis's hills.
  • Nice 100M : the flagship distance of the weekend for seasoned runners.

Exact start times and entry conditions change by race: check the official website for current details.

Watching without running

No need to climb into the hills. Starts and finishes are in town, walkable and reachable by tram. The best spectating spots are the start/finish areas and event zones, where runners pass with great crowd support.

The Ultra-Trail Village, the event's animation area, gathers partners and exhibitors near the finishes: ideal with kids or for a few hours of atmosphere, free of charge.

Practical tips for your stay

  • Accommodation: districts near the village (centre, port) fill up fast on race weekend. Book early or look at the hills, 15 min away by tram.
  • Getting around: as always in Nice, walk + tram wins. Race zones close periodically: do not bet on the car.
  • Reaching starts: shuttle buses exist for 100M and 100K; spectators should plan a tram stop plus a short walk.
  • Late-September weather: sunny days likely, but evenings get chilly in Nice — bring a light layer for late finishes.

FAQ

Is the race free to watch?

The animation and town finish areas are freely accessible. Runner zones are reserved for participants.

Can I still register?

Depending on the race and the date, entrances may be open or closed: go through the event's official website.

How long should I stay?

A weekend is enough: an evening at the village, a lunch downtown, and Saturday at a finish area if you love the atmosphere.