Nice knocked my socks off with its perfect mix of Mediterranean glamour and authentic French charm. After multiple flights to this Côte d’Azur paradise across different seasons, I’ve developed strong opinions about which airlines actually deliver versus which ones leave you arriving cranky and jet lagged.
While wandering through the best places in Nice, like the vibrant streets of Vieux Nice and the stunning Promenade des Anglais with its endless sea views, I realized how crucial picking the right airline is. I analyzed over 100 flight routes to Nice from the US and Europe, looking at onboard amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and overall performance. From luxury options with proper Champagne to budget airlines that somehow maintain their dignity, these carriers will start your French Riviera adventure right in 2025.
#1 tip to find cheap flights to Nice
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Now, let’s dive into the 10 best airlines to fly to Nice in 2025.
1. 🇫🇷 Air France
- 🏠 Hub: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First)
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue – SkyTeam alliance with KLM
- ☕ Perks: French service excellence, Paris connections, premium dining
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Morning arrivals to CDG sync well with afternoon CDG-NCE departures, and you can often secure a free or low-cost seat upgrade on the domestic leg during online check-in.
Flying Air France to Nice begins with a gentle immersion into French culture before you even leave the tarmac. You’re not just flying to the Riviera, you’re being eased into it with warm greetings in French, espresso instead of lukewarm coffee, and a cabin atmosphere that feels more like a Parisian lounge than a typical aircraft.
Economy gives you proper legroom (about 31-32 inches, which is actually comfortable) with meal service that proves French airlines take food seriously even on short flights. We’re talking real coffee, actual pastries, and service that feels genuinely French rather than corporate-friendly. Premium Economy transforms the 2-hour flight with extra space and enhanced service, while Business delivers the kind of refined experience that matches where you’re headed. La Première on international routes creates luxury that rivals five-star hotels.
Flying Blue makes collecting miles actually worthwhile, especially with their monthly promotions that can slash award requirements. Air France’s “France Airpass” lets you add domestic flights for around $85 each when booking international tickets, which is incredibly cheap for exploring multiple French cities during your Riviera escape. Sales regularly drop US cities to Nice via Paris for $450-750 roundtrip, reasonable pricing that includes the French experience rather than just basic transportation.
Charles de Gaulle can be chaotic at first glance, but Air France has streamlined its domestic operations to make connecting easy. With up to 20 flights per day to Nice in summer, you’ll rarely be stuck waiting long, and the overall experience beats connecting through less reliable budget carriers or regional hubs.
- Read next: Unique Things to Do in Nice
2. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines
- 🏠 Hub: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL), New York-JFK (JFK), Minneapolis (MSP)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class, Delta One
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – partners with Virgin Atlantic and Air France-KLM
- ☕ Perks: Direct Atlanta-Nice seasonal service, Sky Club lounges, reliable operations
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Delta’s ATL-Nice route includes complimentary Sky Club access for Delta One passengers.
When Delta launched their direct Atlanta-Nice route, they basically solved one of travel’s most annoying problems: getting to the French Riviera without spending half your vacation in European airports. This seasonal nonstop service cuts through all the connection nonsense and delivers you straight to Mediterranean paradise, which sounds simple until you realize how many headaches it eliminates for American travelers dreaming of French beaches and rosé.
Settling into any cabin feels like a relief when you know you’re skipping the usual European layover chaos. Main Cabin gives you proper legroom with meal service that won’t ruin your appetite for French cuisine, plus entertainment that makes 8 hours over the Atlantic actually pass quickly. Comfort+ provides the extra space that transforms long-haul flying from endurance testing into merely uncomfortable, while Delta One creates an experience that rivals the luxury you’ll find in Nice’s best hotels.
Flying through Atlanta means reliable operations and plenty of same-day connections from across the US. Delta’s hub efficiency makes the experience smoother than scrambling through unfamiliar European terminals. You’ll also arrive in Nice mid-morning, just in time to check in, change, and head straight for the beach.
SkyMiles members benefit from a high-earning transatlantic route and easy partner redemptions with Air France and KLM. Fares usually range from $900 to $1,500 roundtrip, especially in summer. If you book Delta One early, you can turn your journey into part of the vacation, arriving in the Côte d’Azur rested and ready.
INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I got an email alert on a $397 roundtrip fare from Boston to Nice with Delta. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.
3. 🇺🇸 United Airlines
- 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Washington Dulles (IAD)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, Polaris Business
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – Star Alliance member with no expiring miles
- ☕ Perks: Strong European network, ConnectionSaver technology, reliable app
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Pair United’s Nice-bound European connections with Lufthansa’s “Rail&Fly” pass to access French Riviera towns by train after landing, ideal for side trips to Cannes or Antibes.
United might not offer nonstop service to Nice, but they’ve mastered the art of the strategic connection. Whether you’re routing through Frankfurt, Zurich, or Brussels, their Star Alliance partners give you multiple options to reach the Côte d’Azur without overpaying for convenience. These routes often undercut nonstop flights by $200-400 and still offer solid schedule flexibility.
Economy feels like United finally figured out international flying, with decent legroom and entertainment systems that don’t crash mid-movie. Meals have improved dramatically from the dark days of airline cost-cutting, though don’t expect culinary miracles. Economy Plus delivers valuable extra space that matters on transatlantic segments, while Polaris Business offers lie-flat beds and enhanced dining that makes the longer journey surprisingly comfortable.
European hubs like Frankfurt or Munich connect seamlessly with United’s partners, especially Lufthansa and SWISS, which means your transfer to Nice can be as smooth as a direct route with a bonus stop. United’s ConnectionSaver tech automatically holds flights for tight connections when it can, which helps you avoid missed layovers during peak summer travel.
MileagePlus stays competitive with award rates, and your miles never expire. United’s roundtrip fares to Nice from US cities usually fall between $600 and $1,100, depending on the connection city and time of year. Booking with their travel cards can unlock perks like free bags or Economy Plus seating, adding comfort to a journey that trades nonstop speed for smart savings.
- Read next: United Airlines First Class Review
- You may also like: Enchanting Places in Nice, France
4. 🇬🇧 British Airways
- 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Club World)
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) – oneworld alliance member
- ☕ Perks: London connections, premium service standards, extensive European network
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose flights from Gatwick to avoid Heathrow’s crowds, and add a low-cost London hotel stay through BA’s vacation deals to split up long-haul travel with a cultural city break.
Picture this: you’re sipping proper tea at 30,000 feet while flying over the English Channel toward the French Riviera. British Airways treats their London-Nice service like the civilized European shuttle it should be, connecting Britain’s capital with France’s playground through multiple daily flights that feel more like premium bus service than typical airline chaos. Their approach brings British understatement to Riviera glamour in ways that somehow work perfectly.
Economy keeps things functional and friendly with 31-32 inches of legroom, complimentary snacks, and in-flight service that reflects British polish without feeling rigid. Premium Economy adds breathing space and upgraded dining, while Club World turns the quick hop into something special, with lounge access, lie-flat seats, and a welcome glass of fizz before you even take off.
London works brilliantly as Nice’s gateway, with both Heathrow and Gatwick offering frequent departures that provide serious schedule flexibility. BA’s operations at both airports flow smoothly, while London itself makes an excellent stopover destination with world-class museums, theaters, and dining accessible via efficient transport connections. The multiple daily frequencies mean missing one flight doesn’t ruin your Riviera plans.
Executive Club’s Avios redemptions shine here, with London-Nice pricing as low as 9,000 points each way during off-peak periods. Cash fares often range from $150 to $350 roundtrip during sales.
- Read next: British Airways First Class Guide
- Read more: Top 10 Airlines for the Best Flights to France
5. 🇨🇦 Air Canada
- 🏠 Hub: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan – Star Alliance member with flexible redemptions
- ☕ Perks: Canadian hospitality, European connections, efficient operations
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Air Canada’s “Europe Stopover” to explore Montreal for up to 24 hours at no extra cost before heading to Nice. It’s a great way to enjoy two French-influenced cities on one ticket.
Flying Air Canada from Montreal to Nice feels less like an international leap and more like a natural bridge between two Francophone cultures. The route blends Canadian efficiency with a French flair that’s hard to replicate, and it quietly stands out as one of the most charming transatlantic options for travelers heading to the Riviera.
Once onboard, comfort comes without the fuss. Economy offers around 32 inches of legroom and complimentary meals that lean into both Canadian and French flavors. Premium Economy delivers extra breathing room and attentive service for the full 7-hour journey, while Business Class offers lie-flat seats, priority boarding, and meals that reflect regional culinary care.
Montreal works surprisingly well as Nice’s North American gateway, with Air Canada’s operations benefiting from their bilingual capabilities and European experience. The airport’s French-Canadian character creates a natural cultural bridge to the Riviera, while Air Canada’s extensive Canadian network means seamless connections from coast to coast. Their seasonal timing aligns perfectly with both Nice’s tourist season and Montreal’s beautiful summer weather.
Aeroplan makes this route even more appealing. Award flights from North America to Nice via Montreal often start at 35,000-45,000 points one way, while cash fares typically range from $440 to $730 roundtrip. Add in the option to spend a day in Montreal at no extra cost, and you’ve got a clever, comfortable way to turn one vacation into two.
6. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa
- 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance founding member
- ☕ Perks: German efficiency, excellent European connections, premium lounges
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Lufthansa’s Munich-Nice route operates on smaller regional jets with 2-2 seating – no middle seats! Frankfurt connections offer more flight times but Munich provides a more relaxed transfer experience
German engineering meets French Riviera elegance when you fly Lufthansa to Nice, and somehow this combination works better than you’d expect. The airline’s dual-hub approach gives you options: connect through Frankfurt’s massive efficiency machine or Munich’s more manageable Bavarian charm.
Lufthansa’s regional aircraft on the Munich-Nice route actually create a more intimate flying experience than typical European short-haul cattle cars. Economy features 2-2 seating that eliminates middle seat lottery anxiety, with legroom (around 31 inches) that works fine for the 90-minute flight. Business provides enhanced comfort and meal service that showcases German attention to quality, even on short European hops where other airlines serve stale pretzels and call it premium service.
The experience on the ground complements the journey in the air. Munich Airport is clean, compact, and user-friendly, with quiet zones, lounges, and even airport beer gardens that turn layovers into something enjoyable. Frankfurt, while busier, offers unmatched connectivity and efficient transitions for travelers connecting from the U.S. or other long-haul flights.
Miles & More provides access to valuable Star Alliance redemptions, but cash deals can be even better during Lufthansa’s regular promos. Expect roundtrip fares to Nice from major U.S. cities via Germany to land around $500-900.
- Read next: Best Airlines to Frankfurt
7. 🇳🇱 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- 🏠 Hub: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Comfort, Business
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue – SkyTeam alliance with Air France
- ☕ Perks: Amsterdam connections, Dutch efficiency, stroopwafel service
- 🧠 Pro Tip: KLM’s “Europe By KLM” sales frequently include Nice for $180-400 roundtrip from cities across Europe. Book early and check their monthly Flying Blue promos for discounted award seats.
Something about KLM’s approach to Nice feels refreshingly honest. They’re not trying to wow you with flashy amenities or convince you their connection through Amsterdam is somehow exotic. Instead, they focus on what actually matters: getting you to the French Riviera efficiently, comfortably, and without the drama that characterizes too many European airline experiences.
The Amsterdam-Nice route typically runs on Boeing 737s with clean, well-maintained cabins. Economy offers proper legroom along with complimentary drinks and the iconic stroopwafel that’s become a hallmark of KLM’s in-flight charm. Premium Comfort adds extra room and priority perks, while Business provides wide seats, upgraded meals, and attentive yet relaxed service.
Amsterdam Schiphol is one of Europe’s easiest airports to navigate. Well-marked terminals, fast security, and smooth connections make it ideal for travelers looking to avoid the chaos of larger European hubs. It also doubles as a great layover destination, with direct train access to Amsterdam city center for anyone wanting a quick museum visit or canal walk.
Flying Blue rewards are flexible and easy to use, especially with regular discounts on European award tickets. KLM’s Nice fares from major cities often sit in the $180-400 range during sales, making them a smart alternative to pricier full-service competitors. Add in strong SkyTeam perks and solid on-time performance, and KLM becomes an easy choice for Nice-bound travelers.
- Read next: Top Airlines to Amsterdam
8. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Airlines
- 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZUR), Geneva (GVA)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (shared with Lufthansa Group)
- ☕ Perks: Swiss precision, alpine hospitality, excellent chocolates onboard
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Swiss’s “Swiss Getaway” packages bundle flights and Nice hotels for serious savings. Look for deals out of Geneva, where the 50-minute hop to Nice is one of Europe’s shortest and most scenic international routes.
The irony of flying Swiss International Airlines to Nice is that you’re traveling from one expensive, beautiful destination to another, but somehow Swiss makes this feel like the most natural journey in Europe. The Geneva-Nice route might be the continent’s shortest international flight at just 50 minutes, but Swiss treats it with the same attention to detail they bring to intercontinental service.
Cabins are exactly what you’d expect from a Swiss carrier—clean, efficient, and refreshingly comfortable. Economy offers around 32 inches of legroom and includes complimentary drinks and those famous Swiss chocolates that somehow make even short hops feel special. Premium Economy is a smart choice on longer journeys into Zurich or beyond, offering more space and priority perks. Business Class elevates the experience with wider seating, refined meals, and that understated Swiss elegance.
Geneva Airport offers a more relaxed entry point into Switzerland compared to its larger cousin in Zurich. Both hubs connect well to Nice, but Geneva is especially convenient for travelers coming from western Europe or looking for the fastest route to the Riviera. Swiss handles both airports with the same consistency that’s earned them a loyal following.
Miles & More opens doors across Europe and beyond, with Swiss redemptions often more competitive than expected. Roundtrip fares to Nice regularly fall between $200 and $450, which is fair value considering the short flight time and superior onboard service.
- Read next: Best Airlines to Zurich
9. 🇦🇹 Austrian Airlines
- 🏠 Hub: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Lufthansa Group member)
- ☕ Perks: Vienna connections, Austrian hospitality, central European gateway
- ☕ Pro Tip: Book during Austrian’s off-season sales for $150-300 roundtrip from Vienna to Nice. Their stopover program lets you explore Vienna’s opera houses and café culture without additional airfare.
Austrian Airlines offers a surprisingly elegant way to reach Nice by routing through Vienna, a city that feels more like a cultural prelude than a layover. Skipping the mega-hubs in favor of Austria’s efficient and stylish capital adds charm to the journey, and the airline’s attention to service helps the trip feel far less transactional than your average short-haul route.
Onboard the Airbus A320s, passengers in Economy enjoy proper legroom and well-presented meals that highlight Austrian flavors with a refined twist. The cabin crew is known for being courteous and composed, bringing a kind of calm, reliable energy to the flight that pairs perfectly with Vienna’s timeless charm. Business Class travelers get upgraded menus and wider seating, offering a smooth, unhurried transition into Riviera relaxation.
Vienna International Airport stands out for its simplicity and efficiency, offering connections that flow logically and without the headache of long-haul terminal chaos. Austrian’s base of operations here runs with trademark punctuality, and it’s easy to add a few days in Vienna before heading to Nice.
Miles & More membership in the Lufthansa Group provides extensive earning and redemption opportunities across Europe and beyond, while Austrian’s competitive pricing regularly offers European cities to Nice via Vienna for $180-400 roundtrip. The airline’s off-season sales can drop Vienna-Nice to under $200, an incredible value for experiencing both Austrian culture and Mediterranean beaches during the same trip.
- Read next: Budget Airlines to Vienna
10. 🇮🇹 ITA Airways (formerly Alitalia)
- 🏠 Hub: Rome Fiumicino (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP)
- 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business
- 🎯 Loyalty Program: Volare – SkyTeam alliance member
- ☕ Perks: Italian style, Rome/Milan connections, Mediterranean expertise
- 🧠 Pro Tip: ITA’s Rome-Nice route runs multiple times daily with excellent Italian meal service. The “Discover Italy” program offers Nice flights plus Italian city add-ons for under $400 total.
ITA Airways approaches Nice with the kind of Italian flair that makes every flight feel like you’re already starting your Mediterranean vacation early. As Alitalia’s successor, they’ve maintained the Italian passion for style and service while improving operational reliability, creating flights to Nice that capture the connection between Italy’s sophisticated travel culture and the French Riviera’s timeless elegance.
Step aboard their modern aircraft and you’ll immediately notice the Italian attention to aesthetics and comfort. Economy provides decent legroom (around 31-32 inches) with meal service that actually showcases Italian culinary traditions rather than serving generic European airline food. Meanwhile, Business delivers enhanced comfort with Italian design sensibilities and dining that reflects the Mediterranean connection between Italy and France.
Getting to Nice is seamless through ITA’s hubs in Rome or Milan, both offering strong European and international links. Rome works well for southern Italy and long-haul connections, while Milan is ideal for travelers exploring northern Italy or connecting through major European business routes. Both airports make it easy to add a stopover, whether for ancient ruins or designer boutiques.
Volare members can earn or redeem SkyTeam points, but ITA’s promos often outperform award rates. Fares between European cities and Nice via Italy frequently dip to $200-500 roundtrip.
- Read next: Best Airlines to Rome
