Nice Carnival 2027

The Nice Carnival 2027 runs from 9 to 28 February 2027 in Nice, on the French Riviera. Over almost three weeks, parades of giant floats and the famous flower parades fill Place Masséna and the Promenade des Anglais. The organiser calls it the premier carnival in France, and it is a favourite winter-sun trip for families and groups.

About the Nice Carnival

The Nice Carnival has a long history and is known for two types of parade. The carnival parades feature huge papier-mâché figures and floats, many made by local carnival artists, while the flower parades see decorated floats with performers throwing flowers to spectators along the seafront.

The organiser describes the carnival as the most important winter event on the Côte d'Azur. February in Nice is mild compared with northern Europe, which makes the carnival attractive for travellers from the Gulf and Asia, and especially for North African and Europe-based diaspora families, who can reach Nice easily.

The carnival period also coincides with the Menton Lemon Festival nearby in many years, and day trips to Monaco, Èze and Cannes are easy.

The Nice Carnival 2027 dates and venue

The Nice Carnival 2027 runs from 9 to 28 February 2027. Parades take place on set days and evenings within this period on Place Masséna and along the Promenade des Anglais; the official programme lists each parade.

Seated and standing tickets for the parade areas are sold through the official Nice Carnival website, which also has information for groups and visitors with disabilities.

How to get to Nice for the Nice Carnival

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is close to the city centre and connected by tram line 2 and taxis. It is one of France's busiest airports, with flights from many cities in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

Nice-Ville railway station is in the city centre, with trains along the coast to Monaco, Menton, Antibes and Cannes. The parade areas are a short walk from the station and from the tram lines.

Where to stay

The city centre, the area around Place Masséna and the Promenade des Anglais are the most convenient for a trip to Nice for the carnival. The old town (Vieux Nice) and the Port area add charm and are within walking distance.

Carnival weekends are busy, so book hotels near the Promenade early. Cagnes-sur-Mer, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Antibes are alternatives connected by train.

Families staying for a week or longer often prefer apartments, which are widely available in central Nice. Groups arriving by coach should check drop-off points, as roads around Place Masséna and the seafront are closed or restricted on parade days.

Planning a group trip to the Nice Carnival

A group tour to the Nice Carnival can combine one carnival parade and one flower parade with a day in Monaco, a visit to Èze and a free afternoon in the old town. Agencies should buy grandstand tickets in advance and agree meeting points, as crowds are dense on parade days.

Remind travellers that evenings can be cool in February and to keep valuables safe. Check entry requirements for France with the official authorities.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Nice Carnival 2027?

The Nice Carnival runs from 9 to 28 February 2027, according to the official website.

What is the flower parade?

The flower parade (Bataille de fleurs) features decorated floats with performers throwing flowers to spectators along the Promenade des Anglais.

Do I need tickets for the parades?

The parade areas are ticketed, with seated and standing options sold on the official website. Check it for prices and conditions.

Which airport serves Nice?

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is close to the city centre and connected by tram and taxi.

Is the Nice Carnival suitable for children?

Yes. It is a family event, though crowds are large. Seated grandstand tickets can be more comfortable for families with young children.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Nice Carnival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.