Car Hire at Nice

Nice in 2026 has a strong calendar of international events, combining world-famous festivals, sport and cultural celebrations along the French Riviera.

The biggest highlight is the iconic Carnaval de Nice 2026 (11 February – 1 March), one of the largest carnivals in the world, featuring spectacular parades, flower battles and illuminated night shows across the city. In March, the city also hosts the finish of Paris–Nice 2026, a major professional cycling race that attracts international attention as riders complete one of the sport’s key early-season competitions.

Throughout the year, visitors can also enjoy Riviera-wide events easily accessible from Nice, including the Monaco Grand Prix 2026 in May, one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world, and the famous Festival de Cannes 2026 just along the coast, showcasing global cinema and celebrity premieres.

At Carjet, we believe in total transparency. Your holiday is our top priority, which is why we’ve put together this guide to help you save money and keep your trip completely hassle-free. Here are a few things you need to know about hiring a car in Nice:

• Book Early : Nice is a popular destination, so demand for car hire remains high throughout the year. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure a better rate and ensure your preferred vehicle is ready when you arrive.
• Smart Timing : If you can be flexible with your pick-up and drop-off times, you’ll often find better prices. Even adjusting your schedule by an hour can make a noticeable difference.
• Compare Major Providers : Use Carjet’s search tool to compare leading international brands in one place. We do the hard work, so you can quickly find the best deal.

Discovering the French Riviera by car is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the Côte d’Azur, giving you the freedom to explore its glamorous cities, coastal roads and hilltop villages at your own pace. Starting from Nice, you can drive along the stunning coastal route to elegant seaside towns such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Antibes, each offering beautiful marinas, beaches and relaxed Mediterranean charm.

Heading further west, you can visit the luxury destination of Cannes or continue inland to discover picturesque villages like Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, known for their art galleries and panoramic views. The winding roads through the hills offer some of the best scenery in the region, combining sea views with Provençal landscapes. With a hire car, the French Riviera becomes a flexible and scenic road trip destination, allowing you to blend beaches, culture and iconic coastal towns all in a single journey.