Yes, Uber is available in many areas of the French Riviera—including Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Villefranche-sur-Mer—but with key exceptions like Monaco and Èze. For travellers seeking a convenient and digital-first way to move between coastal towns, Uber can be a helpful option, although it’s not always the best one.
If you’re planning a trip to the Côte d’Azur, understanding where Uber works—and where it doesn’t—can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we break down the availability of Uber, the local alternatives, and the best private transport option for a seamless experience.
Where Uber Works in the French Riviera
Uber is generally available in the main coastal cities and towns, including:
- Nice: One of the most Uber-friendly cities in the region.
- Cannes: Widely covered, especially during events like the Cannes Film Festival.
- Antibes: Uber operates here regularly.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer: Some coverage, though fewer cars at night.
These areas are well connected by Uber, especially during daytime hours and around train stations, hotels, and major landmarks.
According to the official Uber France site, Uber maintains active coverage throughout the French Riviera, especially in popular cities and during the summer tourist season.
Where Uber Doesn’t Operate (Or Is Very Limited)
There are notable exceptions:
- Monaco: Uber drivers can drop off passengers in Monaco, but local regulations prohibit pickups within the principality. This means you can use Uber to arrive, but not to depart. More details here: Does Uber work in Monaco?
- Èze: Coverage is inconsistent, especially in the medieval hilltop area. You might find it difficult to get a ride in or out, particularly at night.
In these areas, we recommend pre-booking a professional chauffeur service or using local transport apps like Taxi Monaco.
Pros and Cons of Using Uber in the French Riviera
Pros
- Often cheaper than traditional taxis, especially for mid-distance trips
- Easy app-based bookings and transparent pricing
- Available in English and other languages
Cons
- Surge pricing during festivals, cruise arrivals, or late nights
- Long wait times in smaller villages or after midnight
- No access to exclusive areas like Monaco for pickups
According to the French Ministry of Transport, the ride-hailing market in France is regulated, and not all regions offer equal access. Always check app availability before relying on it for key transfers.
For additional planning, refer to the official PACA transport site for train and bus routes.
What Are the Best Alternatives?
While Uber works in much of the Riviera, it’s far from your only option:
- Trains: The TER Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur line runs frequently and is highly affordable for moving between major towns.
- Buses: Inexpensive, but slower and sometimes less reliable during strikes or summer.
- Other apps: Bolt and FreeNow operate in certain cities and may offer competitive rates or better availability during peak hours.
- Private chauffeur services: For those who value comfort, punctuality, and multilingual drivers, a service like Luxotica’s private chauffeurs offers door-to-door travel without the uncertainty of app availability.
When a Chauffeur Service is Better than Uber
If you’re travelling with luggage, heading to the airport, or planning an itinerary with multiple stops, Uber isn’t always the most reliable or cost-effective.
A professional chauffeur service offers:
- Fixed pricing with no surprise surges
- Punctual pickups and drop-offs
- Knowledge of the region’s roads, events, and best routes
- Bilingual or multilingual service for international travellers
Whether you’re travelling from Nice to Monaco or planning a full car tour in Cannes or Èze, you can book directly through our website and customise your ride.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Uber in the French Riviera?
Yes—Uber is available in most key locations across the French Riviera, including Nice, Cannes, and Antibes. But for areas like Monaco or Èze, or for more luxurious, reliable service, consider booking with a professional chauffeur instead.
With events, traffic, and pricing fluctuating throughout the year, having a local, dedicated driver may just turn a stressful journey into a relaxed travel experience.
For a premium alternative to Uber that covers all areas—including Monaco—explore Luxotica’s chauffeur services.