Birmingham
United Kingdom
1,400 km
14-16 hours driving
Nice
France
Distance
1,400 km
Drive Time
14-16 hours
Est. Fuel
£110-£140
Est. Tolls
£80-£100
Route Overview
Birmingham to Nice is over 1,400 km through France via the Rhône Valley. This journey requires at least one overnight stop and significant costs. Flying from Birmingham to Nice is almost always more economical and practical.
Best crossing option
Fly + hire strongly recommended
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £320-£440 |
| Ferry | £80-£140 | £270-£380 |
| Fly + Hire | £120-£280 | £195-£460 |
Estimated costs for 2 adults, standard car. Actual prices vary by season, booking time, and vehicle. Use our calculator for personalised results.
Tips for This Route
Birmingham Airport offers seasonal direct flights to Nice — check availability before committing to driving.
If driving, Lyon makes an ideal overnight stop at roughly the halfway point.
Total toll costs from Calais to Nice are around £80-£100 — a significant expense on top of fuel.
The A7 through the Rhône Valley and past Avignon is scenic but extremely busy during summer.
Once in Nice, parking is expensive (£20-£30/day) and the city is best explored on foot or by tram.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Nice?
Flying is nearly always the cheapest option. Birmingham Airport has seasonal direct flights to Nice from around £80-£160 per person return. Driving costs £270+ one way including fuel, tolls (£80-£100), Channel crossing, and an overnight hotel en route.
How long does it take to drive from Birmingham to Nice?
The drive takes 14-16 hours of actual driving time spread over two days, plus the Channel crossing. Most travellers overnight near Lyon. By contrast, a direct flight takes about 2 hours.
What is the best time of year to visit Nice?
May-June and September-October offer the best balance of warm weather, manageable crowds, and lower prices for both flights and Channel crossings. July and August are peak season with higher costs all round. The Nice Carnival in February is also a great time to visit.
Get an exact cost for Birmingham to Nice
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare Birmingham → Nice