Pedicab Bike Taxis
Pedicabs, bike-taxis, tuk-tuks, modern day rickshaws… in France they’re called Cyclos, and these egg-shaped carriages are a very pleasant way to traverse Nice when your feet have had it!
These eco-friendly ‘taxis’ run on pedal-power …but don’t feel too bad as you glide along in the shade while your driver pumps away: these modern bikes are electric, so when the going gets tough, the battery gets going!
Nice has three main companies, La Cavaleta, Happy Moov, and Cyclo Nice, plus several small independents. They usually gather at Place Massena, but you can also find them at Nice Etoile Shopping Center, Place Magenta, Place Garibaldi, or on the Promenade near the Casino Ruhl. Otherwise just flag one down; they’re out and about until 7pm, and until 9pm in July and August.
The only caveat is to be very clear on the price before you get in. These velo-taxis got a bad reputation right out of the gates for quoting one price and then… surprise!… that was per person, so it is actually double! …Or not quoting a price, and at the end demanding an exorbitant fee. The City of Nice has cracked down, but abuses still happen by unscrupulous pedalers.
Prices
In general, the minimum fee starts at 10€ for a short trip, and then it’s roughly 10€/per additional kilometer, but many display a handy zone map to help you estimate the cost of your trip. Don’t hesitate to negotiate, especially if there are several of them mulling around.
If you are two, be sure to be clear before you start that the price quoted includes both of you; Cyclo Nice and Happy Moov tend to charge by the person, so if they are not clear, the ‘bargain’ rate turns out to be double.
Sample fares from Place Massena for 1-2 people:
- Old Nice, or Nice Etoile, or Casinos 10€
- Train station, or Place Garibaldi 15€
- Port area, Liberation market 20€
- 30-minute city tour for 2 people 30€
- 60-minute city tour for 2 people 50€
Just for comparison, the pedicabs charge more than a regular taxi, which charges 3€ to start, and then 2.08€/km… but taxis will usually balk at a short hop, often refusing to move for less than 15€, and taxis can sometimes be surly and have also been known to flagrantly overcharge tourists.
Tours
All offer a relaxed way to roll by the sights of Nice… prices vary (you can negotiate) and be aware that the content of the tour will not be extraordinary, mostly just a listing of places and the most basic commentary, but a general 30-minute city tour in English will cost approximately 15€ per person, or take an hour for 25€ per person (but again, negotiate, especially if you are two people).
- Back up to main Go/Transport page
Photo Credits: Cyclo pedicab photos by Best of Nice Blog.