Nice's little train and open-top bus: comparative guide
The electric little train (€12) and the open-top bus (€24): two ways to discover Nice without getting tired. Routes, 2026 prices and tips.
For families, people with reduced mobility or simply those who want to see Nice without counting its kilometres, two solutions exist: the electric little train for the alleys and the hill, and the open-top bus for the horizon. Here is the honest comparison, 2026 prices included.
The Nice little train
The tourist little train (100% electric, commentary in 8 languages) offers two routes departing from Jardin Albert 1er, in front of the Centenaire Monument:
- the Château route: 50 minutes, with a 10-minute stop on the hill for the 360° view over the Baie des Anges;
- the City centre route: 45 minutes, with commentary adapted to children in French.
2026 prices: €12 per adult, €6 for ages 4-12, €30 family ticket (2 adults + 2 children), free for under-4s. Train labelled Famille Plus and Pet Friendly, accessible to people with reduced mobility.
The "Nice Le Grand Tour" open-top bus
The open-top bus tours Nice and pushes on to Villefranche-sur-Mer: 11 stops, free hop-on hop-off, a full loop in 1h20 without getting off. Audio guide in 10-11 languages, free wifi, PMR platform. Main departure at 91 Quai des États-Unis and at the Théâtre de Verdure.
2026 prices: €24 per adult (€8 child), €28 for the 2-day pass, unlimited use for 24h. The bus climbs to Castle Hill on the way, a good way to see the city before choosing what to visit in detail.
Which one to choose?
- With children: the little train, Château route — the hill stop is the moment they'll remember;
- First visit, solo: the open-top bus to see big, then get off at the stops that appeal;
- People with reduced mobility: the bus is the most comfortable (platform, wifi);
- Budget: the little train is half the price, and the family ticket (€30) unbeatable for 4.
The good deal: the French Riviera Pass
Both are included in the French Riviera Pass (one little train route of your choice, and the open-top bus unlimited): if you plan museums + sightseeing, the pass quickly pays off.
FAQ
How much does the Nice little train cost?
€12 per adult, €6 child 4-12, €30 family ticket (2+2), free under 4. Two routes: Château (50 min) and City centre (45 min).
Where does the Nice little train leave from?
In front of Jardin Albert 1er, next to the Centenaire Monument, on the Promenade des Anglais.
How much does the panoramic bus cost in Nice?
€24 per adult, €8 child, €28 for the 2-day pass. 11 stops including Villefranche-sur-Mer, free hop-on hop-off.
Does the little train go up to Castle Hill?
Yes, the Château route makes a 10-minute stop on the hill for the 360° panorama.
Does the French Riviera Pass include the little train?
Yes, one little train route of your choice and unlimited open-top bus are included in the pass.
Are these tours accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the little train is accessible and the open-top bus has a PMR platform.
