A man stands in front of large letters displaying the words I Love Nice.

Is Nice Safe to Visit in 2024?

By Richard Hoskisson, 17 May 2024

I have been visiting Nice for over 20 years and have been living full time in the region for the last few years. The aim of this comprehensive guide is to show you that I think that Nice is a safe city to visit in France. I have never felt unsafe or threatened here. However, as in most modern 21st century cities, educating yourself on what preventative safety measures to take prior to visiting and during your stay is always advisable.

France is one of the largest nations in Europe in terms of land mass and population. It has a rich and vibrant population. Nice is the 5th largest city in France and has a population of approximately 340,000 people. With relatively low crime rates Nice is a ‘must visit‘ on any traveller’s French wish list.

I have collated information below into separate areas for ease of accessibility. Please read on to find out all about safety in Nice. You will have a definite answer to all your safety related questions.


A red house with green shutters and yellow paint detail. Above is a blue sky and in the foreground a metal sculpture of an animal holding three colours balloons.


How does Safety in Nice Compare to Other Places in France?

Nice is the 5th largest city in France. Naturally in urban areas, crime statistics always tend to be higher than those in rural areas.

However, generally crime statistics in Nice are lower than other cities in France such as Marseille, Paris, Grenoble and Nantes.

That being said, with approximately 33,000 crimes reported per year, it is worthwhile educating yourself in advance of a visit to Nice on the preventative measures that you can take. Easily avoid becoming a crime statistic in this beautiful city and make your stay in Nice safe.

Is Nice safe for different types of travellers?

Tourists & Families

Tourists report feeling safe when visiting Nice. Nevertheless when visiting any densley populated areas it is prudent to take preventative steps to guard against petty crime such as pick-pocketing (see details below on common crimes in Nice).

Additionally, being aware of which neighbourhoods should be avoided when sight-seeing is advisable (also included in my guide below).

Female Travellers

It is a sad fact that female travellers often have to take extra levels of precaution when travelling. However, levels of violent crime in Nice are low and France is ranked in 14th position in the Bounce Women Safety Index.

It is advisable to maintain high degrees of awareness and vigilance to guard against petty crime such as pick-pocketing and purse snatching. Moreover, staying in more populated areas when walking alone and avoiding dimly lit streets when out and about at night is highly recommended.

Solo Travellers

Nice is considered to be a safe city for solo travellers to visit. Although, as outlined above, being vigilant and aware of your personal belongings is advised. As a solo traveller, when visiting the beach it is important to take minimal personal belongings with you if you intend to swim. These cannot be stolen whilst you are in the water.

Avoid quiet, dimly lit places when walking about at night.

LGBTQ+ Travellers

France ranks at number 11 globally of safe countries for LGBTQ+ travellers by Forbes. Nice has a large LGBTQ+ community and travellers can enjoy the inclusivity, freedom and safety of the thriving gay scene without fear of prejudice.

The blue Mediterranean sea in the distance and blue and white circular parasols lined up along the beach.

Navigating Nice

Is Nice Safe To Walk Around?

Nice is extremely pedestrian friendly. During recent years, significant investment has made to make Nice accessible and easily navigable on foot. Be cautious of motorcycles and scooters whilst crossing roads. Additionally, be aware of cyclists using the cycle path adjacent to the pedestrian area of the Promenade des Anglais; they can often be travelling at high speed.

Is Public Transportation Safe In Nice?

Nice is proud of its reliable, efficient and modern public transport system. Lignes dAzur are responsible for the running of buses and trams throughout the Nice Metropolitan area.

Other towns such as Cannes, Antibes, Monaco and Menton are well-served and easily accessible by buses and trains from Nice.

Tourists and locals are safe on the network. Although usual vigilance against pick-pocketing should be adopted particularly during busy, crowded periods. It is advisable to avoid using the train late at night, particularly solo or female travellers.

Is it Safe to Ride the Tram in Nice?

The recent addition of new lines to the tram system, make the tram one of the most convenient ways to travel through the city.

Both airport terminals are now connected to the city on the tram network (line 2). Direct connections to the city centre are via the stops at Jean Médecin or to the Port via the final stop at Port Lympia.

The tram is a safe and inexpensive way to connect between different parts of the city. Travellers feel safe using the tram.

Is Uber Safe In Nice?

Uber is a company that is heavily regulated globally and aims to provide the same level of service whether it be in Nice or Los Angeles.

It is a cheaper alternative to taxis as the price is estimated on the app at the time of booking. Therefore there is no risk of being ripped off by a driver who may take advantage of tourists.

According to Uber’s website all drivers undergo provisional screening as well as annual checks including but not limited to, driving violations, impaired driving, and a criminal record.

Is Nice A Safe Place To Drive?

If you only plan to stay in Nice or visit the coastal region the public transport network is perfectly adequate. However some travellers prefer to have their own vehicle.

Nice is relatively easy to navigate. However, road lanes tend to be narrow and many drivers demonstrate poor lane discipline, often drifting into the neighbouring lane. Defensive driving is necessary to avoid lane drifters. Be aware of the numerous scooters and motorbikes that weave in and out of the traffic. They often ride in your blind spot.

Outside of the city driving is less hectic and more pleasurable.

I recommend driving in Nice, only if you are confident driving on the right hand side of the road in busy areas.

A yellow car travels along a palm tree lined promenade.

Where is the Safest Place to Stay in Nice?

Nice has many different neighbourhoods catering to each budget of traveller. Whilst most areas popular with tourists are safe and relatively crime free, it is worth noting below which areas to visit and which to avoid.

What are the Good and Bad Neighbourhoods of Nice?

The most popular neighbourhoods for travellers looking for an authentic Niçois experience are Vieux Nice – sometimes referred to as Vieille Ville (Old Nice/Old Town) and the adjacent neighbourhood of Carre d’Or (Golden Square in English). Both neighbourhoods offer a wide variety of accommodations. These neighbourhoods are considered to be safe for tourists.

Quartier des Musiciens is also a safe, less expensive option, yet well located for the main tourist attractions. Nice Centre, which takes in the main high street of Jean Médecin, is a secure area to be based, if a little less vibrant than the other neighbourhoods.

On the other side of the headland from the old town you will find Nice Port. Accommodation is cheaper here but also gives you the authentic feeling of being in Nice.

If you want a sea view the Promenade des Anglais will be where you will have to find accommodation. Please be aware that the promenade is 7 kilometres long and a residence closer to the airport is less accessible to the old town and city centre.

In summary, neighbourhoods to consider are;

  • Vieux Nice
  • Carre d’Or
  • Quartier des Musiciens
  • Nice Centre
  • Nice Port
  • Promenade des Anglais (pay attention to location)

Also worth considering;

  • Cimiez
  • Mont Boron
  • Quartier des Fleurs
  • Gambetta

Which Areas of Nice Should be Avoided as a Tourist?

It is not advisable as a tourist to stay in the following areas for reasons of safety, accessibility or generally being less desirable ;

  • Ariane
  • Las Planas
  • Les Moulins
  • Les Liserons
  • Nice Nord
  • La Trinité

Is Airbnb Safe To Use In Nice?

Airbnb has developed so much in the last few years. Many measures have been put in place to protect the safety and security of prospective tenants and owners. I personally always make sure to complete my own due diligence when renting through Airbnb to make sure that the listed property is not a scam. It is also advisable to check safety features made in the listing such as the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in the property.

It is worth noting that Airbnb prohibits the use of interior security cameras in its properties so that the privacy of tenants is protected.

💡 Insider Tip: verify that the property is located within one of the recommended neighbourhoods above. Only communicate with the owner through the Airbnb app. If a prospective owner encourages you to communicate outside of the app, avoid the property.

A grand building sits at the top of a great square.

Crimes and Scams in Nice

Pickpockets & Scooters

As in most European cities, pick-pockets are actively operating, particularly in the more touristic areas and on public transport, when visitors are likely to be distracted.

Be extra vigilant of scooters when walking close to the road or at pedestrian crossings. Thieves are known to grab purses, mobile phones and watches from the hands of unsuspecting tourists.

Car Door Grab – Vol à la Portere

This crime is unfortunately often directed at tourists in rental cars, which are often easily identifiable by the licence plate (many rental cars in France display the départment number 60 Picardie on the right hand side of the number plate).

Thieves forcibly open the car door and grab valuables from the occupants whilst sitting at traffic lights or crossings/junctions.

Whilst this crime is much less frequent than it was a number of years ago, I advise ensuring that car doors are locked and windows closed. Refrain from keeping valuable items such as purses, phones and wallets on visible display in the vehicle.

Beach Scams

A trip to Nice is not complete without a stop and perhaps a swim at the beach. Be aware that pick pockets/thieves also operate on the beaches. If planning a swim ensure that you do not bring valuables with you to the beach. These can often be swiped whilst you’re in the water. Even whilst sunbathing or snoozing under the Mediterranean sun, using your bag as a pillow can prevent a thief from being able to grab your possessions.

Mugging

As mentioned above crime statistics in Nice are lower than many other cities in France and the incidences of violent crime are low. Therefore there is a low chance of falling victim to a violent assault or mugging. However, avoiding dimly lit neighbourhoods and streets when alone at night is strongly advised.

If using public transport alone at night, being close to other groups of travellers in the carriages prevents you from being isolated and vulnerable.

It is worth noting that although there is a lot of graffiti in various parts of Nice – this is not indicative of a gang culture. On the contrary it is a celebration of the rich street art culture of France.

Terrorism

Sadly Nice has seen some well-documented terrorist attacks in recent years. In 2016, a radicalised resident of Nice, drove a 19 ton truck through the crowds of people gathered to watch the fireworks from the Promenade des Anglais on Bastille Day (July 14th). 434 people were injured in the attack and tragically 87 people were killed.

Since the attack, huge investment has taken place to secure the pedestrianised zones of Nice, including the Promenade des Anglais.

In 2020, Nice witnessed another terrorist attack. 3 people were killed in a stabbing attack at the church of Notre-Dame de Nice, in the neighbourhood of Jean-Médecin.

In both cases above, Police were swift to take action and disable the perpetrators.

At the time of writing and following the March 22, 2024 terrorist attack in Moscow, Russia, the French government elevated its Vigipirate national security alert system to the highest level.

As a result, residents and visitors throughout France may see heightened security in public areas, including airports; public transport, places of worship, tourist sites and large commercial centres. At first sight it can be quite frightening to see armed military personnel on the streets and beaches. Remember that they are there for our safety and protection.

French authorities actively monitor terrorist threats from organized groups and radicalized individuals.  Attacks may happen with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, major sporting and cultural events, and other public areas that attract large numbers of civilians.

It is advisable when visiting congested and popular tourist areas to be particularly attentive to your surroundings and to formulate an escape plan in case of an emergency. If travelling in a group or family, have an agreed meeting location in the event of becoming separated.

Common Scams To Look Out For In Nice

Petitions – be cautious when approached to sign a petition or respond to questions in a survey. Sometimes these people will not be genuine and could swipe your wallet/purse whilst distracting you.

Taxis – when taking a taxi from the airport, the fixed fee includes 4 pieces of luggage. Do not allow a taxi driver to tell you otherwise. Prices to the following destinations are fixed at time of writing; Nice €32, Cannes €85, Monaco €95 and Antibes/Juan les Pins €72. Additional baggage should be charged at €2 per piece.

Restaurants – make sure to always be aware of the cost of recommendations from a waiter, particularly wine. Prevent yourself from being surprised at the cost of a bottle of wine when receiving the bill by selecting the wine yourself. Additionally in a restaurant you can save some money on expensive bottled water by simply asking for ‘une carafe d’eau’ which is free tap water. (Don’t worry, the tap water in Nice is perfectly safe to drink).

The sun shines through a sculpture of large letters saying I Love Nice

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there Natural Disasters in Nice?

The most common phenomenon to affect Nice and the Côte d’Azur is flooding, particularly outside of the summer months. During these times the sea can become quite rough and unsafe for swimming.

In the summer months the surrounding countryside, particularly towards St Tropez in the Var can be seriously affected by wildfires.

What are the Dangers of Swimming in Nice?

The Mediterranean has a small tidal range and swimming is generally quite safe. However, at times the swell can become stronger making entry and exit from the sea dangerous. At these times swimming should be avoided.

It should be noted that Nice has a pebble beach. Water shoes are advised at all times in order to facilitate easier access to the water. Without them it can be very difficult and painful to enter and exit the sea. Check out my post for alternative sandy beaches in nearby Antibes.

Are there Lifeguards in Nice?

The city of Nice stations lifeguards on the beaches between mid June and mid September between 09:30 and 18:30. Take note of the flags being flown by the lifeguards;

🟦 Blue – water is clean

🟨 Yellow – water quality makes bathing inadvisable

🟩 Green – sea conditions are safe

🟧 Orange – swimming is dangerous due to either an agitated sea, currents, jelly fish or another condition

🟥 Red – swimming is FORBIDDEN

Jellyfish (Meduse in French) can be problematic during the summer months. A sting can really spoil your day (I was stung last summer). The city of Nice has invested in a jelly fish detection system and a quick glance at their website will tell you the current risk of an encounter. Check out the Meduseo website here.

Whilst there are sharks in the Mediterranean Sea, most are harmless and whilst great whites and blue sharks have been spotted, shark attacks are extremely rare.

Swimmers bathe in shallow azur blue waters under the blue sky.

5 Safety Tips for Travelling in Nice

Read these 5 Frequent Travel Recommendations for a safe visit to Nice in 2024.

⭐️ Leave valuables such as jewellery and passports at your accommodation, particularly when planning to visit the beach.

⭐️ Secure wallets and purses with a chain or bury them deep in a tight pocket or bag. This makes it harder for pickpockets to retrieve them.

⭐️ Avoid dark streets and neighbourhoods at night, particularly when walking alone. Avoiding the train at night is also advisable.

⭐️ Be vigilant when using your phone on busy streets where they can easily be snatched from your hand by a passing scooter/motorbike rider.

⭐️ Make copies of your travel documents, and note down your credit and debit card numbers and emergency numbers in case of theft.


‘The Wrap Up’ – Is Nice Safe and is a Visit to Nice Really Worth it?

In conclusion, Nice is a safe city to visit and for the majority of travellers a visit to this beautiful city will pass without incident. Families, female travellers, LGTBQ+ and solo travellers all safely visit Nice each year in their millions (approximately 5 million tourists visit each year).

It is worth noting the points below when making a decision about whether to visit Nice in 2024.

  • Nice Has a Low Crime Rate.
  • There Are Lots of Surveillance Cameras installed in the city.
  • There Are Low Rates of Drug-Related Crime 
  • Nice Has Low Rates of Violent Crime

The most common crime that tourists are likely to encounter is pick-pocketing. Taking preventative steps when sightseeing means that you can easily avoid falling victim to thieves.

Nice Emergency Contact Numbers

112 is the French general emergency number (like dialling 999 or 911). This is a general emergency number. If you need a specific service you can also call the numbers below.

15 – Medical Emergency

17 – Reporting Petty Theft

18 – Fire

If you see any suspicious activity the public is strongly encouraged to report it to law enforcement authorities by dialing 17 or 112.