London
United Kingdom
1,250 km
12-14 hours driving
Nice
France
Distance
1,250 km
Drive Time
12-14 hours
Est. Fuel
£100-£130
Est. Tolls
£80-£100
Route Overview
London to Nice is a serious drive — over 1,200 km through France. Most travellers take the Eurotunnel to Calais then the autoroute south via Lyon. It's a journey that usually needs an overnight stop.
Best crossing option
Eurotunnel or fly + hire
Cost Comparison
| Method | Crossing Cost | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnel | £130-£200 | £310-£430 |
| Ferry | £80-£140 | £260-£370 |
| 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
Consider flying — return flights plus a week's car hire can be cheaper than fuel + tolls + tunnel + overnight hotel.
If driving, break the journey around Lyon or the Rhône Valley. It's roughly the halfway point.
French autoroute tolls from Calais to Nice total around £80-£100 — a significant hidden cost.
The A6/A7 corridor through Burgundy and the Rhône Valley is scenic but busy in summer.
Fill up at supermarket fuel stations (Leclerc, Carrefour) — motorway services charge 15-20% more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from London to Nice?
Flying is often the cheapest option for London to Nice. Budget airlines offer return flights from around £60-£150 per person, and car hire on the Riviera starts at £25/day. Driving via the Eurotunnel costs £300+ one way once you factor in fuel, tolls, crossing, and an overnight hotel.
How long does it take to drive from London to Nice?
The drive takes 12-14 hours of actual driving time, plus the Channel crossing. Most people break the journey with an overnight stop near Lyon, making it a comfortable two-day trip.
Is it worth driving to Nice or should I fly?
For most travellers, flying is better value and far quicker. However, driving makes sense if you need a car for exploring Provence, are travelling with a lot of luggage, or want the flexibility to stop along the way. The drive through Burgundy and the Rhône Valley is beautiful.
Get an exact cost for London to Nice
Compare tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire prices for your specific dates and vehicle.
Compare London → Nice