Biking Through the South of France
Food, Coastlines, and the Art of Slowing Down
I didn’t expect to fall in love with the South of France like this. I’ve always been an Asia-travel girlie, but something about biking through Nice, eating my way through the markets, and watching the coastline glow at golden hour completely pulled me in. This region has that rare combination of beauty, ease, and charm that just makes you breathe a little deeper. And honestly? I’m still thinking about it.
I wish we had time to explore more coastal towns, but if you’re planning a trip to Nice, here’s everything that made this experience unforgettable.
The Riviera Just Hits Different
I understand why people take yearly vacations to Nice. Nice is one of those places that feels both lived-in and luxurious. There’s a casual elegance here that doesn’t try too hard. The water is impossibly blue, the old town feels like a movie set, and the entire city is designed for walking, riding, and wandering with no real agenda.
And that’s exactly how we approached it. Just bikes, sunshine, and vibes.
Why Biking in Nice Is the Move
We flew thousands of miles across the world, and my favorite thing we did in the Riviera was ride bikes. The extensive bike lanes were a COVID project, and every time I almost get hit by cars on LA city bikes, I think…. why can’t America have nice things?
I love a good scenic bike ride, but the French Riviera takes it to another level.
1. The paths are stunning.
You’re literally riding along the Mediterranean. Cliff edges, old stone walls, bright blue water, it’s unreal. Even if you’re not a “bike person,” the route sells itself.
2. It feels safe and accessible.
Nice has bike lanes everywhere, and the coastal routes are smooth and beginner-friendly. Renting a bike is easy at one of the many bike locations. But most importantly, I felt totally safe. Bike lanes are set up, where you are protected from cars by lush greenery or barricades. No competiting on the streets with vehicles.
3. You see more than you would by car or on foot.
We cruised through neighborhoods, beachside stretches, tiny side streets, little towns in between… and because you’re not speeding past, you actually take it all in. On average, we road bikes around Nice for about an hour a day. It’s the kind of slow travel that makes you feel connected to where you are instead of rushing from one spot to the next.
Rent a bike, pick a direction, and go.
Eating Your Way Through Nice
Let’s be honest: the South of France is a food trip disguised as a vacation.
The markets? Perfection.
Fresh produce, olives, pastries, street food, local desserts—everything looks like it was styled for a cookbook cover. You can taste how close everything is to the source. Open-Air Markets are THE thing to do in Nice, check the schedule and see what you can find.
The cafés and restaurants? Even better.
Seafood, pasta, rosé by the water… it’s simple but elevated. You can grab a quick snack from a vendor or sit down for a long, slow meal with a view.
Some of our favorite places:
Ruhl Plage Beach Club: proof that simple, fresh ingredients make the best dish
Clay: if you love truffle, get the Truffle Pasta
Pho 38: sometimes you just need Asian food
La Rotonde at Hotel Negresco: still thinking about that Escargo
Slow Travel Is Underrated
One thing this trip reminded me: not every vacation has to be rushed. Coming from booked-and-busy London, this was a welcome change of pace.
Sometimes the best memories come from:
riding bikes instead of booking tours
lingering over a pastry instead of checking off a list
letting yourself wander
choosing curiosity over structure
Nice gives you permission to slow down without ever being boring.
Final Thought
Maybe this trip wasn’t just about biking and beautiful views. Maybe it was a quiet reminder that life feels different when you slow down long enough to notice it.
That’s what the Riviera gave me. A version of myself that wasn’t rushing, performing, or optimizing… just moving, observing, and being.
And honestly? I can’t wait to go back.
