Train des Merveilles
Scenic train journey taking you from the coast in Nice into the mountains further north
Merveilles means “marvels” and it’s hard to know whether they named the area for the stunning scenery, the beautiful old medieval villages or the archaeological findings going back 5000 years. The railway carriages are painted with designs inspired by the prehistoric rock carvings that have been discovered in the region.
The train line actually runs all the way to Cuneo in Italy, but most sightseers only go as far as the medieval village of Tende or to Breil-Sur-Roya in the Vallée des Merveilles. To go all the way to Cuneo takes about 3 hours, with Tende being just 2 hours from the beginning of the line in Nice. Some of the services do not go all the way to the end of the line, so be careful when planning your journey or you may find yourself stuck somewhere in the middle!
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What to see
Sights in Nice
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Train des Merveilles
Merveilles means “marvels” and it’s hard to know whether they named the area for the stunning scenery, the beautiful old medieval villages or the archaeological findings going back 5000 years. The railway carriages are painted with designs inspired by the prehistoric rock carvings that have been discovered in the region.
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Saint-Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral
The most important orthodox cathedral outside Russia, this is a beautifully ornate building. It was built to serve the large Russian community that had settled in Nice.
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Marc Chagall National Museum
Housing the largest collection of the Russian painter, Marc Chagall, the Chagall museum is one of Nice's top attractions.
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Ferrero Gallery
Founded as a photographic studio in 1958, and opened as a gallery in 1972, Jean Ferrero exhibited works from the School of Nice and the New Realism genre.
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Le Palais de la Mediterranee
Opened to unprecedented acclaim in 1929, Le Palais de la Méditerranée instantly became a showcase of luxury and inter-war celebration.
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Sainte-Jeanne d'Arc Church
This modern church dedicated to Joan of Arc was built in the 1920s in an Art Deco style with a large white central dome surrounded by three smaller domes.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Nice
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Restaurant des Rois, Beaulieu Sur Mer
The jewel in the crown of La Réserve de Beaulieu hotel is this gastronomic restaurant which has one Michelin star.
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Le Chantecler Restaurant
In a Regency-style dining room decorated with magnificent 18th century woodwork, Jean-Denis Rieubland proposes two menus, "Découverte" and "Chantecler".
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Le Bistro Gourmand Restaurant, Vieux Nice
Just steps from the old town and the Promenade des Anglais, Le Bistro Gourmand welcomes you in a warm atmosphere with a bright décor and design.
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Jan Restaurant
Modern French food with a touch of South African heritage. From childhood Jan used to spend most of his time in the garden and kitchen and has replaced this with the markets of France. With his new restaurant in the old Port of Nice he is not only out to set the trends but to combine local with a stylish and attentive atmosphere.
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La Reserve Restaurant
La Réserve has been refurbished throughout in an eye-catching style of the 1930s. Its superb location boasts stunning panoramic views and you can enjoy lunch on the terrace overlooking the water, or dinner at nightfall with exquisite views over the Baie des Anges.
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La Cave Nature Restaurant
In a simple and relaxed atmosphere, La Cave Nature is a place of tasting organic wines and specialities of the house such as sandwiches, Mediterranean products freshly prepared, and tastings of cheeses and Italian delicatessen.
What to do
Things To Do in Nice
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Sunset Boat Trip
Enjoy a wonderful, peaceful and fume-free journey along the French Riviera on a solar powered motor boat with a professional skipper.
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Motorbike hire
Based in Nice, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Nice and offers a wide range of road bikes.
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Solar Powered Boat Trip
Enjoy a wonderful, peaceful and fume-free journey along the French Riviera on a solar powered motor boat with a professional skipper.
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The Alps self-guided motorbike tour
A bike trip for advanced riders, where you can enjoy some of the most scenic roads of the French Alps.
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Provence self-guided motorbike tour
A trip for intermediate riders, where you can enjoy some of the most scenic roads in Provence.
How to get passes
An unlimited day ticket (Pass ZOU) costs 15€ per person and is valid for all journeys on the Train des Merveilles line. They are available at the main train station in nice or at any stations along the route.
