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An Essential Guide to Nice, Europe’s Original Resort Town 

By Kelsy Chauvin

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Nice’s standing as the ultimate getaway became official last summer, when it earned UNESCO World Heritage status as the “ winter resort town of the Riviera .” Citing the “exceptional universal value of the architectural, landscape, and urban heritage of Nice,” the designation memorializes the city’s international flair and air of opulence.

For seasoned travelers, the city’s alluring serenity and scenery has been an open secret since the 18th century. Back then, English aristocrats were drawn to the mild winter weather along this French-Mediterranean stretch, building lavish mansions with exotic gardens to suit their annual sojourns. By 1860, those early snowbirds even constructed the seaside walkway known as La Promenade des Anglais—the English Promenade—now an iconic global attraction.

But the real secret of Nice is its accessibility to modern travelers. From Vieux Nice (the old town) up to Cimiez Hill (Queen Victoria’s old neighborhood), visitors can make their way in luxury or on budget, and enjoy the same mesmerizing beauty of the French Riviera .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chateau le Cagnard

What to do in Nice—and where to stay

Enthusiasm for Nice begins with a panoramic descent into Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, which juts out into the crystal-blue Ligurian Sea. From there, a 15-minute taxi or swift tram ride puts you directly into central Nice. On and just off the commercial strip that is Avenue Jean Medecin, you’ll find a range of lodging options, including Hotel Boscolo Nice , which welcomes guests into its artful lobby illuminated by a giant skylight. Rooms are spacious and chic, as are its subterranean spa and two Italian-inspired restaurants. Reserve time for the hotel’s breezy rooftop lounge, where you can dip into the plunge pool by day, and sip cocktails during mellow DJ’ed evenings.

Hotel Boscolo is along Boulevard Victor Hugo, from which much of Nice’s main attractions are a pleasant walk or Vélo Bleu bikeshare ride away. Head down Avenue Medecin toward the Fontaine du Soleil and the giant statue of Apollo, then into Vieux Nice to soak up the city’s history. The 1885 neoclassical Nice Opera House marks the west end of the famous Cours Saleya daily market , with fresh flowers and seasonal produce. Visit the Theresa Socca stand to try the simply divine local snack that is socca, a savory crepe made from chickpea flour.

With so many historic sights in the old town, it’s an interesting turn to visit the decidedly modern Charles Nègre Photography Museum , located beside the market in Place Pierre Gautier. Expect to find a range of temporary photo exhibits housed in neighboring buildings. Better still, €15 buys admission here and at 10 more museums across town, including the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Matisse Museum, and Archaeology Museum of Nice/Cimiez, located on an ancient Roman archaeological site. The museum pass doesn’t include Nice’s splendid Marc Chagall Museum, though it’s well worth a visit.

Pass through the arches to walk along the Quai des États-Unis—the United States Wharf, so named to honor America’s World War I alliance with France. This café-lined boulevard parallels the famous Promenade, where you can hit the beach, or gaze upon it from waterside-terrace restaurants like Plage Beau Rivage . Stroll eastward towards the giant #ILoveNICE selfie spot, and on to the compact Port Lympia to check out the colorful wooden fishing boats docked beside million-dollar mega yachts.

Sardines on the beach 

Tanning under the stripped umbrellas

Local Nissarde cuisine

Fans of the Niçoise salad will enjoy diving deeper into unique local Cuisine Nissarde , a notably different style of gastronomy that reflects the region’s Ligurian (Northern Italian) influence. Based on seasonal ingredients that bring fresh salads and fruits in summer, and root vegetables and stews in winter, Nissarde cooking often involves eggs, olives, mushrooms, and deep-sea fish like tuna and sardines.

The Nice Cote d’Azur tourism board lists about two dozen restaurants as traditional “Cuisine Nissarde” establishments, eight of them in or near Vieux Nice. Family-run Chez Acchiardo is one of the oldest, open since 1927 in its stone-walled corner location on Rue Droite. Here’s you’ll be able to sample some of the city’s best traditional dishes, such as daube , beef stew made with red wine and Mediterranean herbs; and trouchia , a tasty frittata layered with baby Swiss chard.

On every Nissarde menu you’ll find merda de can, green gnocchi topped with pistou—pesto made without pine nuts, the Ligurian way. Lou Balico serves one of the best versions, in shareable portions, along with a superb Niçoise salad, made traditionally with anchovies, pickled vegetables, and artichokes, served over greens with fresh tuna, tomato, olives, and boiled egg. On any Nissarde menu you’ll also find pissaladière , a filling, focaccia-like flatbread topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.

Parfumerie Galimard

Along the Cote d’Azur

The 120-mile-long French Riviera stretches from shore to Alps, so it’s well worth a regional tour to explore small towns like Vence, a historic Roman-turned-medieval village about 45 minutes’ drive northwest from Nice. In the town square, dine al fresco at CheZ’elles, serving delicious Armenian food that’s pleasantly mistaken for classic Greek cuisine. Don’t miss a visit to Vence’s Rosary Chapel, commonly called the Matisse Chapel since Henri Matisse personally designed and decorated the bright, modest space during his later years. 

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Take a quick jaunt from Vence to Cagnes-sur-Mer to lodge at Chateau le Cagnard , once a hilltop castle that’s now a luxury hotel with 29 unique guestrooms, many with picture-perfect balconies. Nearby, the serenity of the Renoir House and Museum reveals why many artists were drawn to this lovely, temperate corner of France.

Drive or take a train eastward from Nice to Eze to visit the spectacular Exotic Garden of Eze , a botanical garden perched high on a hill within a medieval fortress, planted with foliage from around the world. Stroll through the fortress’ winding pathways to find unique shops and cafés, and stop into ultra-grand Hotel Chateau de La Chèvre d’Or for an Aperol spritz overlooking the sea. For a delightfully different souvenir, join a fragrance-making class at Eze’s Galimard Maison de Parfums , where you can customize your own scent to bring home, while the studio keeps your recipe on file for future orders.

You can dine or lodge overnight at panoramic (and decidedly modern) Les Terasses d’Eze , or head back to Nice, perhaps via the maritime town of Villefranche-sur-Mer. This former fishing village is prime territory for fresh-caught, French-inspired seafood dishes at open-air spots like Le Cosmo .

That restaurant is located on a plaza that faces the 16th-century Chapel St. Pierre, a modest structure with an eye-catching Romanesque façade. Its interior is even more fascinating, every inch decorated with the original mid-century work of Jean Cocteau, who lived occasionally in the Welcome Hotel in Villefranche. There, Cocteau found both solace and inspiration in the everyday milieu of the Cote d’Azur. It seems the atmospheric nature of the French Riviera was as beguiling to him as it was for centuries of vacationers before him, and for today’s travelers eager to find their own time in the Nice sun.

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France Travel Blog

Nice Travel Guide

Nice offers a perfect blend of a thrilling seaside resort and the richness of a cosmopolitan European city. And if you are looking to experience the distinct blissfulness of the French Riviera, a vacation to its biggest city, Nice is primed for it all.

Boasting of a mild Mediterranean climate, a colorful culture, a vivacious Old Town district, and a flawless shoreline strip of terrific hotels. This Southeastern French city has been a popular travel destination since the 18th century. And though soft, Nice’s intense light, captivating architectural structures, and fanciful market centers have long been appealing to artists from all over the world. Artists like Matisse and Chagall have witnessed Nice’s artistic glory. As an art and history buff, the city will spoil you for choices as no other French city have more museums.

Nice is a big air transportation hub in Europe. Many low-cost airlines offer flights to the Côte d’Azur (the French part of Riviera) airport from London, Paris, and other places. Fast rail service also operates from Paris to Nice. The city’s public transportation is a tram system, transit service, and ferry service. From budget hotels to deluxe-class seaside resorts, there is a vast range of hotel accommodation available in and around Nice. 

Despite its strong historical profile that dates back to the 4th century BC, modernism is apparently not lost on it at all. There have been efforts to modernize the city’s infrastructure.

Here is a Detailed Travel Guide in this Blog for your Stay in Nice:

Best time to visit nice.

Nice, like most cities in the Mediterranean, experiences warm weather almost year-round with average temperature reaching 80s°F (around 26°C )  in the summer and as low as 40s°F (around 5°C )  in the winter. As such, spring is an excellent time to visit Nice and the Côte d’Azur. The best time to visit will be in late spring and early summer to enjoy Nice. 

Getting Around

You will find many shuttle buses and local bus services to Nice and other Riviera cities, and expensive cabs, to convey you to into the city when you arrive. Traveling by rail, be informed that Nice has three stations, but you will probably arrive in the main terminal at Nice Ville. It is expected that you will be only a few blocks north of the coastline.

In addition, are there many connections from Nice Railway station to other cities in France and to neighboring Italy too. The city’s bus system is called the  Lignes d’Azur , which works, in the city and also to and from the airport and other close towns. The system controls about 130 bus routes in the 49 municipalities that consist of the entire Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur area. 

You can buy a single ticket for a journey, which allows changes within 74 minutes for 1.50 euros. There are many other great value tickets for various lengths of stay. Nothing beats seeing the beautiful landscape of Nice while strolling the city on foot or in a car. As such, you can rent a car to cruise. However, it is good to check with your hotel if they have parking plans for guests and the costs too. 

Parking in Nice can be a challenging task. In the case that you are in Nice from another part of the country by far, consider leaving the car at one of the 5’Parc relais’ or stopover car parks outside the center. It is free to use. 

>> How To Get From Paris To Nice

Tourist Attractions

Cours saleya flower market ( marché aux fleurs cours saleya ).

Take a trip to the Cours Selaya for some fantastic culinary experience. This center is one of the major areas for dining, with restaurants, cafes, and bars all spread throughout the market. The open-air market center that used to be a park for the city’s richest people is shaded by trees and surrounded by 18th-century buildings. Many of these structures now house pubs and restaurants serving Niçois cuisine. At the end of Cours Selaya on Mondays, you will see antiques and collectibles been sold. For seafood lovers, here would particularly be an exciting spot to take on for the brilliant cuisines they would find. 

Place Massena

This is the cultural hub of Nice, and it is the city’s largest square and the primary gathering place for events and seasonal festivals. 17th-century architecture is ubiquitous in Place Massena, and it connects with Lyon’s commercial district. Also, you will find an art installation whose pieces are made up of sculptures on top of tall pillars scattered around the plaza. There is also a grand fountain that bears an Apollo statue- the square’s centerpiece. 

Promenade des Anglais

This is a seaside boardwalk that spans along the Baie des Anges was established by the British tourists who first popularized Nice as a vacation destination in the early 18th century. Lined with beach cabanas, cafes, and premium hotels, and palm trees, this area is one of the most well-known seaside promenades you will find on the Mediterranean. Though pricey, the seaside private restaurants/beach is a wonder you must not miss. You can also rent a chaise lounge a few feet from the shore, and let waiters serve you lunch and drinks. Your Riviera experience would not be whole until you completely take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais.

>> Hotels Near Promenade des Anglais in Nice >> Is Nice Worth Visiting?

Vieux Nice (Nice’s Old Town)

Also known as Old Nice, Vieux Nice is next to the Cours Selaya Flower market. It has narrow streets to can walk while you discover gratifying shopping, dining, and some of Nice’s hippest bars. It spans from the foot of Castle Hill to the Place Massena, which is the city’s main square. Vieux Nice is very much marked with wide promenades, while the medieval quarter reminds of the time when the city was allied with Italian states. It is still one of the best places to taste Nice’s Niçois-style pizzas and pastries. As attractive as this destination is, be careful not to go alone, especially late in the day. Vieux Nice has dark alleys that can be covered for thieves and questionable characters.

Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain

Established in 1990, the museum of modern and contemporary art was built by architects Yves Bayard and Henri Vidal. It has four towers faced in Carrara marble from quarries in Carrara, an Italian town. The museum’s vast collection consists of a sample of the 60s and 70s fine arts that include minimalists, American abstracts, pop art, and new realism. More imposing works on display are by Nice native, Yves Klein, of the Nouveaux Réalistes movement. The museum shows his work in a room and on the roof terrace; a point that gives captivating views of the beautiful city. 

Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas

Built during the reign of Russia’s Tsar Nicholas, the Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas is said to be one of the most stunning Orthodox churches outside of Russia. The style is inspired by the Moscow’s own and has an incredibly decorated interior that comes in murals, carved woodwork, and ornamental icons. It is a virtual jewel box that has historical and religious objects. These were brought to France from Russia during a previous period of crisis. 

Tourists are allowed to see the structure and worship but are expected to abide by some rules. For example, men are not permitted in bare-chested or in shorts. And for women, miniskirts and shorts are not allowed, and shoulders are expected to be covered. A head covering is also preferred. So be prepared before you set out to visit the cathedral.

Parc de la Colline du Château (Castle Hill Park)

High above the Nice coastline, where the Castle Hill Park rests today was the first place to be inhabited by the Greeks about two thousand years ago. It used to be seen as unconquerable until King Louis XIV destroyed it in 1706. The city designed into a modern park today, and a charmingly simple site. It is a place you should visit for its shady trees, a pleasant oasis of greenery, and rushing waterfalls. 

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the magnificent park views at the Castle Hill. And while having a great time at the park, you can always visit some great restaurants around where you can grab some bite. Other places worth checking out are boutiques and the ruins of two old churches. The Castle Hill Park is lit up with special lighting effects every night. Tourists and other visitors can arrive at the park by foot from the Old Town of Nice or take an Art-Deco lift or escalator from Place Garibaldi. 

>> Is Nice Safe?

How to Maximize your Stay in Nice

While it is about preference, an organized tour is a way to make the most of your stay in the city as you immerse yourself in its culture; without worrying about finding your way around. Indulging in tour agencies has many other benefits too. You get to save time because some of these tourist outfits include convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel. Here are some tips for enjoying Nice at affordable prices:

Navigate the popular sites

As earlier mentioned, tours are great ways to see scintillating places in Nice. Tours would stop at top cultural attractions like Promenade des Anglais, the Musee d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the Place Garibaldi. Tours also allow experiencing areas of the city that are usually difficult for tourists to add to their itinerary. 

Cycle around the city

You will hardly miss the great scenery on Nice’s streets when you go biking to take on the town. A three-hour trip around would be great as you see locals go hustling and bustling and of course, see the magnificence of the city. Even if you go solo, other tourist cyclists you will meet on the road will also be having an exciting time. 

Medieval hilltop towns and the glitzes of Cannes and Monaco are only a short trip from Nice, and a day trip tour is a perfect way to see them all. In the mountainous town of Eze, you can check out the excellent local perfumery and relish the breathtaking view of French Riviera. In enticing Monte Carlo, you can navigate the old town and see the palace as well as other top sites.

>> Day Trips From Nice >>

Where To Stay In Nice

Hotels are plenty in Nice for the comfort and luxury of visitors and locals alike. Nothing beats the feeling of having a proper rest after a long day of adventure. Indeed, a good Nice hotel will have comfort, tranquility, and the gratifyingly luscious cuisine to go with the calm. 

Hotel Windsor is a short walk to the beach. Walled with distinct murals, its rooms are gorgeously decorated by brilliant artists. Try to request a room with a balcony. The hotel Negresco is another excellent hotel, and it is probably the city’s most famous one. Magisterial around the Promenade des Anglais and the curving beach of La Baie des Anges, the ambiance of this impressive hotel is what every tourist should experience. And the great thing is, you won’t have to spend a fortune to book a room there. 

Its well-known cocktail bar allures the young people with DJ sets, live jazz and Latino bands performance at night. Even the bar staff make lovely cocktails, like the royal Negresco, with champagne, kirsch and raspberry juice. With a swelling number of hotels in Nice, you have lots to choose from.

>> Best Hostels in Nice , Hotels Near Promenade des Anglais in Nice

Is there anything you would add to this Nice Travel Guide? Leave your comments below.

>>Read: Things To Do In Nice

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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Everything you need to know about Nice before you hit the French Riviera

May 15, 2022 • 9 min read

Before you hit the promenade, here are some of the things you need to know about Nice © Elena Elisseeva / Shutterstock

The queen of the French Riviera, Nice drips elegance and panache from every belle époque palace, baroque chapel and Mediterranean-blue chair on the prom. The capital of France's celebrity-stalked Côte d’Azur might be modest in size, but the choice of things to see and do in this iconic coastal town stretches well beyond bracing strolls along Promenade des Anglais and lizard-lounging on bum-numbing pebbles on the seashore.

Plan on lingering more than a couple of days to properly get under the sun-blazed skin of this ancient Greek-founded settlement and wildly popular modern seaside hub. Advance planning is the key to getting the most out of your visit to Nice – book too late (or not at all) and you might miss out on live jazz beneath the stars at the open-air Théâtre de Verdure, or a table for the best of modern Niçois gastronomy at Flaveur .

Here’s what you need to know to ensure smooth sailing on a trip to Nice.

Planning your trip to Nice

Plan ahead to bag tickets for the best events.

Flagship events such as the Nice Jazz Festival in July, and February’s Carnaval de Nice (for those keen to watch the parades from the comfort of a seat in a stand), require planning months in advance. Ditto for world-famous dates such as the Monaco Grand Prix or the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) in Menton, which you’ll most likely attend on a day trip from Nice (where accommodation is less hotly contested).

Arrange a night at the opera

The show season at Nice’s hallowed Opéra Nice Cote d’Azur runs from September to June, and tickets for operas, classical concerts and ballets at this grandiose 19th-century opera house sell like hotcakes. Buy tickets a few weeks ahead and pack something a little more formal to wear to fit in.

Book tables in advance for the city’s foodie hotspots

Nice has plenty of old-town bistros, neighborhood eateries, caves à manger (wine bars) and sea-gazing restaurants that require no table reservations. But you should book tables at least a couple of weeks in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on the perfect plate of petits farcis (stuffed vegetables) or socca (chickpea pancakes) or the creative contemporary gastronomy of such Michelin-starred chefs as Tourteaux brothers at Flaveur , Michaël Gracieux at L’Aromate , or South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen at Jan .

Consider buying a Pass Musées

If you’re planning on visiting several of Nice's museums, buy a Pass Musées 3 Jours online or at the tourist office. Costing €15 (US$16) and valid for three days, the pass covers admission to all municipal museums and galleries. A single entry to just one museum costs €5 (US$5.30) or €10 (US$10.60) depending on the museum, so you only need to visit a couple to justify the cost of the pass.

When plotting your museum itinerary, investigate which temporary exhibitions and events are on – keep tabs on what’s happening via the Musées de la Ville de Nice Facebook page.

…or a French Riviera Pass

If your Nice itinerary includes day trips to neighboring hot spots such as Monaco , Èze, Marineland in Antibes or the belle époque Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, it's well worth investing in a French Riviera Pass . The pass costs from €28 (US$29.60) for one day to €56 (US$59.20) for three days, and it includes fun stuff such as a half-hour Segway tour, bicycle and e-scooter rental, champagne at the city casino, a stand-up paddle boarding session, wine-tasting and more, as well as admission to dozens of museums and monuments in Nice and along the Riviera.

Pack an old-fashioned corkscrew

Wine bottles in Provence and France come with corks – screw tops are rare. Pop a corkscrew in your hold luggage in anticipation of dreamy, wine-fueled picnics on the beach and dreamy rosé aperitifs at sundown.

Cut your carbon footprint using e-bikes, public transport and boats to explore

Don’t even contemplate arriving in Nice by car; downtown traffic and parking are equally tiresome. Get around on foot, and for longer distances, by public transport and the shared, free-floating electric bikes provided by e-Vélobleu .

Nothing compares to seeing the Côte d'Azur's fabled coastline from the water. Trans Côte d’Azur boats sail east from Nice along the picturesque shoreline to Monaco, passing Villefranche-su-Mer, Cap Ferrat and Èze, and to glitzy St-Tropez via Antibes and star-studded Cannes .

Etiquette in Nice

Keep bikinis and bare chests for the beach.

Don’t walk around the city in skimpy beachwear or bare-chested. Away from the shore, dress as you would in any non-coastal city. In summer, loose-fitting shirts and flowing skirts or baggy shorts are the way to go. Don’t forget a sunhat, sun protection and shades. Once actually on the beach, toplessness is perfectly acceptable and locals aren’t shy!

Sex on the beach? Non non non!

Noticeboards clearly explaining what you cannot do sur la plage are displayed at the entrance to beaches along Promenade des Anglais. Barbecues, campfires, wild camping, loud music and sex on the beach are all prohibited and punishable by stiff fines. Dogs are also barred, except on canine-friendly Plage de la Lanterne.

Leave the pebbles where they belong (and the blue chairs too)

It might be tempting to pop a couple of Nice’s signature round galets (pebbles) into your beach bag to paint and craft into a souvenir paperweight back home, but don’t! Each year, some 15,000 cubic meters of gloriously smooth pebbles from the nearby River Paillon are poured onto the beaches along Promenade des Anglais to slow down natural (and human-assisted) erosion. Play your part in preserving Nice’s legendary pebble beach – or risk a €38 (US$40) fine.

Also, note that Nice’s iconic blue chairs – a permanent fixture on the waterfront since the 1950s – belong on Promenade des Anglais. Do not move them onto the beach or, heaven forbid, attempt to take them home with you.

Dress up, not down, when dining out

This is France's glam coast, so bring some posher outfits and dress up for nicer mid-range restaurants, clubs and bars – no jeans and sneakers (though black or 'smarter' jeans are usually acceptable).

Dress modestly when visiting churches

Leave the ultra-short shorts and mini-skirts at home when visiting Cathédrale Ste-Réparate , Chapelle de la Miséricorde and other old-town churches and chapels. Bring a scarf – make that two – to cover bare shoulders and over-exposed thighs.

Bring your own bag or basket to the market

Browsing market stalls piled high with seasonal fruit and vegetables, shiny olives, rainbows of fresh blooms and exotic spices at Vieux Nice’s open-air market on Cours Saleya or the equally jam-packed Marché de la Libération is a Niçois rite of passage. Remember to bring your own basket or shopping bag to carry your purchases.

Shop for sustainably-produced ‘Made in Nice’ souvenirs

Vieux Nice boasts ample souvenir shops selling mass-produced tack aimed squarely at tourists. Hunt down artist-supporting ateliers and independent boutiques instead for environmentally-conscious homewares, culinary products and hand-crafted goods produced by local artisans, craftsmen, farmers, producers and fashion designers. On-trend concept and vinyl store Evrlast on rue du Lycée in Vieux Nice is a good starting point.

Maison Auer has sold Nice’s famous fruits confits (crystallized fruits) to the sweet-toothed since 1820. If wine is your nectar, discover small-batch wines from the Alpes-Maritimes and Var regions at trusted 1940s wine shop Cave de la Tour in Vieux Nice. Or buy direct from a local chateau. Wine curios will be instantly smitten by Château de Bellet , one of France’s teeniest appellations, hidden high in the hills 9km (5.6 miles) northwest of Nice. Call ahead to arrange a vineyard tour, cellar visit and dégustation (tasting) before you buy.

Drink pastis and rosé like a Niçois

Pastis is France's most iconic aperitif – drinking it at any time of day is acceptable. When ordering, asking for ‘un pastis’ would be like asking for ‘a beer’ – instead, check the drinks menu and order by brand. Ricard and Pastis 51 are the most common, but there are plenty of artisanal brands spiced with local botanicals. Pastis de Nice blends 26 plants and spices from Nice’s mountainous hinterland.

Alternatively, opt for a glass of chilled rosé crafted in a Provence winery. Bistros and restaurants typically serve Côtes de Provence or Côteaux d’Aix as their highly affordable house wines. To try the grown-up stuff, indulge in a tasting session at Rosé , a wine bar single-mindedly focused on the rosé wines for which southern France is rightly famous.

Avoid restaurants touting 'menus touristiques'

Nice has its fair share of restaurants targeting a less-discerning tourist crowd. Avoid restaurants touting a ‘menu touristique’ – follow locals instead to authentic eateries, with menus only in French and kitchens fueled by seasonal produce sourced from regional farmers and artisan producers.

Never order a cappuccino to end a meal

Cappuccino is an Italian import – in France, un café (a short, sharp espresso) is the only self-respecting choice.

Health & Safety in Nice

Ditch bottled water for tap water.

Tap water is safe to drink in Nice, and ordering une carafe d’eau (a jug of tap water) rather than bottled water in restaurants saves euros and reduces plastic consumption.

Bring your own water bottle to fill up while roving around town. There are free drinking fountains spouting eau potable (drinking water) in both terminals at Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport and in various spots around town. You can also find taps in the public shower-blocks on the beachfront along Promenade des Anglais.

Beware of pickpockets and petty thieves

As in any other city, keep your wits about you. Beware of pickpockets in tourist-crowded areas such as Vieux Nice’s Cours Saleya markets, and on trams and buses into town from the airport. Don’t leave personal belongings unattended on the beach – your valuables are safer left back at your hotel.

Watch for stinger jellyfish

If you notice a lack of people jumping into the shallows or swimming further out to sea, it's usually for a good reason. Mauve stinger jellyfish (Pelagia noctiluca) plague the Med at certain times of year, particularly in August. Ask around before entering the sea, and take the lead of locals – if they’re steering clear of the water, do the same.

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Nice   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Guillaume CHANSON | Getty Images

22 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

At the eastern edge of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur coastline, the famous palm-lined shoreline is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Nice. France's fifth-largest city boasts many must-see museums, baroque-style churches and

• All Things To Do

Place Masséna Place Masséna free

You'll likely pass by Place Masséna, the city's main square, several times while in Nice thanks to its central location. With the seafront to the south, the shopping street Avenue Jean Médecin  jutting off to the north, and the lovely Albert I gardens and the recently planted Promenade du Paillon surrounding it, you can walk to it from virtually anywhere in the small city.

Recent travelers highlighted Place Masséna as an idyllic location to snap your photos, with hypnotic tilework, a grand fountain and seven tall statues that light up in the evening to serve as memorable backdrops. Reviewers also recommended stopping by early in the morning before the square becomes very busy or after dark to appreciate the architecture in the evening glow. The square is free to visit 24/7.

Old Town (Vieille Ville) Old Town (Vieille Ville) free

The pedestrianized Vieille Ville, or Old Town, is a colorful nook of a neighborhood enjoyed by both travelers and locals alike for its narrow shop-lined streets and atmosphere. There are the usual tourist traps, but you can also find some authentic French restaurants and shops, not to mention the Cours Saleya  flower, fruit and vegetable market. 

Past visitors claim that the neighborhood is best experienced in the morning, so you can scour the market. Take the afternoon to traipse through and shop, although recent travelers warn that the narrow laneways can become very crowded in summer. Recent reviews also comment on how close the beaches  are to the neighborhood, so you can take a refreshing dip. In the evening, grab a small bite from a charming restaurant or have a drink on the terrace of one of the countless bars.

Promenade des Anglais (English Walk) Promenade des Anglais (English Walk) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for a replica Statue of Liberty  along the Promenade des Anglais. It measures only 1.3 meters (about 4.25 feet) in stature and is located on the Quai des États-Unis (American Quay), opposite the Nice Opéra. – Chrissie McClatchie

The Promenade des Anglais (English Walk) runs parallel to the pebbly shore of Nice's beachfront, stretching for more than 4 miles along Baie des Anges. Locals simply refer to this world-famous stretch of road as the Promenade or La Prom. Recent travelers said that the wide boardwalk is not only a beautiful place for a stroll, but it's also a great place to get your directional bearings early on in your trip since the city's main attractions  spoke off from here. Plus, with a dedicated lane for cyclists and plenty of stations for Vélo Bleu – the city's bike and e-bike sharing system along the route – it can be a great way to exercise while sightseeing. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the ornate Hotel Negresco , the Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée , and La Chaise Bleue de SAB, a large iron sculpture of a blue chair created by Niçoise artist Sabine Géraudie that has become the unofficial symbol of the city. 

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Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau) Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't be surprised to hear a loud boom at noon during your visit to Nice. The city's midday cannon tradition dates from the 1860s. Today's cannon is actually a firework let off every day from Castle Hill. – Chrissie McClatchie

Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau) is more of an impressive hill than a castle. Even though most of the original Chateau de Nice structure has crumbled away, travelers still recommend climbing the hundreds of steps to reach the stellar view from its peak. 

Nice Beaches Nice Beaches free

One of the main draws of vacationing in Nice is the beach, which is punctuated by the French Riviera sun, the rolling Mediterranean waves and the legendary blue chairs. However, there are some things to note. First, about 14 private (and costly) beaches break up the public beaches, so be prepared to shell out some euros if you are hoping to lounge on a stretch of sand equipped with chairs and umbrellas. Private beaches don't allow you to bring in your own food and drink, so you'll have to purchase refreshments from the adjoining (and expensive) restaurants. They even charge for lounge chairs (starting at 20 euros, $21) and towels (from 10 euros, about $10.50).

The public beaches are free, but they often don't have any restroom facilities and never any public lounge chairs, so many travelers advise bringing a beach mat to cushion the pebbly ground. And speaking of the pebbles, many travelers recommend wearing water shoes, even in the water, since the ground is so uncompromising.

Cours Saleya Market (Marché du Cours Saleya) Cours Saleya Market (Marché du Cours Saleya) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Cours Saleya market is one of the best places in Nice to sample socca , the chickpea-flour pancake that is the city's street food staple. Pick up a piping hot portion from the Chez Teresa stand. – Chrissie McClatchie

This fruit, veggie and flower market makes for a colorful and aromatic experience. Located in Old Town (Vieille Ville) off the Promenade des Anglais  as it turns into the Quai des États-Unis, the Cours Saleya is open nearly every morning, but an antique market takes the place of the produce on Mondays.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain) Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain)

Note: The MAMAC is expected to close in late 2023 or early 2024 for renovation. Check the museum's website for more information before you visit.

The popular Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art) is a fabulous place to beat the heat, especially if you're traveling in the summertime. The museum features a wide array of work by Nice-based modern artists, most notably Yves Klein. Keep in mind that recent travelers raved more about the building's architecture and panoramic views than the art, and they especially recommend travelers visit the rooftop for a sweeping vista of the city. Though there's construction work to extend the Promenade du Paillon surrounding the museum, the museum is still open.

Villefranche-sur-Mer Villefranche-sur-Mer

U.S. News Insider Tip: You can walk from Nice port to Villefranche-sur-Mer along the 3.4-mile Sentier du Littoral coastal trail. Wear comfortable shoes as the path can be quite uneven at times. There are also plenty of hidden bays to cool off, so pack your swimsuit. – Chrissie McClatchie

East of Nice and separated from the city by Mont Boron  and its woodland park area, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming fishing village that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Nice during summer. Thankfully, it is just a short bus or train ride away (it's about 5 miles from Nice center). The main town is a cluster of pretty pastel-colored buildings that rise back from the waterfront. Along with being one of the French Riviera's most spectacular bays, the rade (bay) of Villefranche-sur-Mer is also one of the deepest in the area and means Villefranche-sur-Mer welcomes many cruise ships .

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Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat free

Go to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat if you want to see how the other half lives: this leafy peninsula that juts out into the bay between Villefranche-sur-Mer  and Beaulieu-sur-Mer to the east of Nice takes the title of having the most expensive real estate in France. Most of these sprawling villas are concealed from view by high gates. Fortunately, the grandest is open to the public to visit. The all-pink Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild dates from the early 20th century and was built as the winter palace of Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild. Today, as a national museum, the period pieces that decorate its interior offer an insight into the Baroness' life and passions. In addition to the house, visitors enjoy walking through the well-manicured gardens with a musical fountain and scattered sculptures. Some suggest you need at least two hours to visit in full. Admission is 16 euros (about $17) for adults; youths ages 7 to 25 pay 11 euros (about $11.50).

To get to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, take the No. 15 bus from Nice center. The bus stops outside the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and continues onto Port de Saint Jean, the main harbor on the peninsula. From the villa, you could set off on the tour of Cap Ferrat, a 3-mile hike around the headland. Visitors who have recently enjoyed the walk recommend comfortable shoes and comment that there is a fountain to fill up your water bottle about halfway along the trail. If you would prefer a more relaxed day in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Plage Paloma is a beach off the coastal path. You will need to bring your own towel for the (free) public portion of the beach. The private beach club of the same name charges 50 euros (about $53) for a sunbed for the day.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence Saint-Paul-de-Vence

About 12.5 miles west of Nice in the hills towards Grasse, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of the French Riviera's most perfectly preserved medieval hilltop villages. With its inspired setting, surrounded by gentle green hills looking out towards the distant sea, the village has attracted artists, none more famous than Marc Chagall, who is buried in its cemetery. Today it is one of the French Riviera's most popular tourist destinations and in summer, the narrow streets are particularly busy when busloads of visitors spill out onto the pretty cobbled streets.

Encircled by thick ramparts, the village houses inside the walls are today a delightful assortment of art galleries, restaurants and cafés and souvenir shops. There are also some interesting museums, including the Folon Chapel (also known as the La Chapelle des Penitents Blancs –The Chapel of White Penitents), a church covered in the whimsical art of Jean-Michel Folon. Recent travelers appreciate how a visit to the chapel is a chance to cool down and escape the crowds when visiting Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Less than a mile from the village itself, Fondation Maeght is one of the region's most famous art galleries with works from artists such as Marc Chagall and Pierre Bonnard in its permanent collection. Travelers have commented that they feel the entrance fee of 16 euros (about $17) is expensive for the quantity of art on display, however.

Chagall Museum (Musée Marc Chagall) Chagall Museum (Musée Marc Chagall)

Many travelers recommend making the Chagall Museum (think: stained glass and colorful, surreal artwork) a part of your itinerary. While there is a permanent collection on display, you could also be treated to a temporary exhibition during your visit.

Recent travelers comment that the museum is best visited in the morning when there are fewer people. Reviewers also remark that the collection is smaller than other Chagall exhibitions. Those who are familiar with and appreciate the painter's work will probably enjoy this museum; those who aren't big fans might want to visit other Nice museums first. If you do decide to go to make the trek, check out more than just the artwork. The gallery itself is a piece of modern architecture, with touches like beautiful stained-glass windows. Travelers also recommend saving enough time to enjoy the surrounding gardens.

Musée Matisse Musée Matisse

Visitors primarily appreciate the aesthetics of Musée Matisse, an airy 17th-century villa surrounded by olive trees, although many comment that the collection of art is fairly small. You'll find drawings, prints, sculptures and other personal artifacts that once belonged to the artist, who settled in Nice in 1917. Keep in mind: Some of the informational placards at the museum are only in French, so you may want to read up on the artist beforehand. Another gripe with reviewers: There isn't much nearby in the way of shopping or restaurants, so don't come hungry. There is a gift shop on-site, however.

Located in Cimiez in northern Nice, the museum is best accessed via bus No 5. Tickets cost 10 euros (around $10.60) and also include entrance to the archaeological museum next door. The Musée Matisse is open Wednesday to Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May to October and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the rest of the year. For more information, visit the museum's official website .

Avenue Jean Médecin Avenue Jean Médecin free

For some retail therapy, travelers ought to stroll Avenue Jean Médecin, which begins its upward ascent at Place Masséna . There are international chains (including Levi's, Tommy Hilfiger and Mango), but you'll also find the Galeries Lafayette department store and the Nice Etoile shopping mall, as well as a number of French boutiques and cafes. If you've shopped the entire street and still want more, you'll find that the streets surrounding Avenue Jean Médecin are lined with retailers too. 

Access to the area is free 24/7, though stores operate on their own hours and most open at 10 a.m. Recent visitors comment that the area is a good place if you are looking for a late lunch, as the restaurants that line the street stay open all afternoon. The area is also lively at night. Be sure to keep an eye out for the tram, which runs down the center of the street.

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Parc du Mont Boron Parc du Mont Boron free

For a free retreat from the city and a breath of fresh air, travelers recommend taking a hike in Parc du Mont Boron (located in east Nice). With nearly 7 miles of hiking trails, you can work up quite a sweat and perhaps burn off some calories from the previous evening's dinner. Climb to the top for the prettiest panoramas and spectacular views of sunset. And if you're a history buff, you might enjoy seeing the nearby military Fort de Mont-Alban. You'll see both tourists and locals enjoying the park daily.

Despite its paved trails, Parc du Mont Boron has no food, shops or toilets. Recent visitors suggest packing plenty of food and water before you leave for the park and also note that there are no toilets or facilities at the top. Jump on bus No. 33 from Port Lympia to reach Mont Boron, or simply grab an Uber. There is also free parking at the park.

Le Negresco (Hotel Negresco) Le Negresco (Hotel Negresco)

More than a hotel, Le Negresco (Hotel Negresco) is a Nice landmark, with a prime waterfront position along the Promenade des Anglais . The five-star hotel is a superb example of the Belle Epoque architecture the city now enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status for. The building's distinct pink onion domes can be seen from many vantage points across the city. Inside, the hotel is similarly distinctive: every room is unique and furnished with art and other decorations from the 17th century to today.

You don't need to be a guest of the hotel, however, to take advantage of some of its amenities. For a memorable meal, make a reservation at Le Chantecler, Le Negresco's Michelin-starred restaurant, or have a drink in the hotel's wood-paneled bar, where a tapestry dating from the 17th century hangs on the wall. Similarly, nonguests are welcome at the newly opened private beach club across the road, Le Negresco Beach Club. You will have to be prepared to pay 45 euros (approximately $48) for a lounge chair for the day and for any food and drink you may consume while you are there.

Palais Lascaris Palais Lascaris

The baroque Palais Lascaris is another of Nice's inexpensive attractions and might make for an interesting peruse on a rainy day. Built in the 17th century, the palace was home to one of the first noble families of Nice and is considered one of the finest examples of a noble townhouse in the city. The property was bought by the city of Nice in 1942, and it was later opened to the public as a museum in 1970. Experts recommend stopping by the étage noble (noble floor) for its 18th-century ornamentations, as well as the musical instruments collection. 

The Palais Lascaris is located in Old Town (Vieille Ville), just north of the waterfront. Its convenient location means it can be accessed on foot from most hotels. Some travelers note that while it's interesting, you can enjoy Palais Lascaris (from top to bottom) in less than an hour. The Palais Lascaris is open Wednesday to Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entrance costs 5 euros (around $5.30).

Garden of the Cimiez Monastery (Jardin du Monastère de Cimiez) Garden of the Cimiez Monastery (Jardin du Monastère de Cimiez) free

The layout of Garden of the Cimiez Monastery (Jardin du Monastere de Cimiez) has not changed since its original construction in 1546, when it was used by the monks as their orchard and vegetable garden. This tranquil space is the oldest garden in the city. Among the various flora and fauna, the garden boasts beautiful climbing roses and a stellar view of the city and bay.

Recent visitors recommended using a stop at the Garden of the Cimiez Monastery as a chance to recharge, calling the tranquil park a great opportunity to take a break from Nice's bustling beaches  and squares.

Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez (Cimiez Monastery) Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez (Cimiez Monastery) free

Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez (Cimiez Monastery) dates from the eighth century. It became a Franciscan monastery in the Middle Ages. Over the years, the site has been expanded: the facade and entrance porch were added in the 19th century. Visitors today can admire paintings by Niçois artist Louis Bréa inside the monastery's ornate Notre Dame de l'Assomption church. They can also visit the art exhibitions and concerts held across the year in its cloister. There is also a museum inside the monastery dedicated to the history of the Franciscan community in Nice.

The monastery complex, which includes the Garden of the Cimiez Monastery (Jardin du Monastere de Cimiez) and a cemetery where Henri Matisse and French painter Raoul Dufy are buried, is now classified as a historic monument.

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Cathedrale Sainte-Réparate (Nice Cathedral) Cathedrale Sainte-Réparate (Nice Cathedral)

As you stroll the narrow pedestrianized streets of Old Town (Vieux Nice), you will quickly realize that Nice's grand Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is a point of reference in the neighborhood. Saint Réparate is the patron saint of Nice and this building dedicated to her has stood alongside Place Rossetti since its construction in the late 17th century. Modeled on St Peter's Basilica  in Rome , it was consecrated as a cathedral in 1699. Today, the cathedral sits among the restaurant terraces and ice-cream shops of this lively Old Town square. Nice's Cathedral is also appreciated as an impressive example of Baroque architecture and the artwork-covered interior has been designed with ten small chapels. Fun fact: Saint Réparate is also the patron saint of Florence, Italy .

Recent travelers recommend visiting Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate if you find yourself in the vicinity. Because it is not as big as other cathedrals in Europe, they don't suggest going out of your way to see it. They also comment that while there can be a lot of people outside the cathedral, it is very calm once you step inside. Nice's cathedral is still an important place of worship for the local population and mass is held at 9 a.m. Tuesday to Friday, 6 p.m . Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday. Regular visiting hours are 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Friday; 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral (Cathedrale Orthodoxe Russe St. Nicolas) St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral (Cathedrale Orthodoxe Russe St. Nicolas) free

Originally conceived in the mid-1800s to honor Tsarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich (who died in Nice), the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral wasn't completed until the early 20th century. Tsar Nicholas II, the head of the tragic Romanov family, commissioned the ornate building not only to honor the late tsarevich but also to accommodate the religious needs of the city's growing Russian population. The church's onion domes, bright colors and detailed ornamentation are hard to miss from its location on the aptly named Avenue Nicholas II. Keep in mind that women may be asked to cover their heads while inside. You will want to bring a scarf with you just in case.

The church is open daily though specific hours can vary. You'll want to contact the church before you visit to see when it accepts visitors. Remember this is a working church, so anticipate services on Sunday mornings. To access the crypt museum 5 euros (around $5.30) is charged. Recent visitors suggest booking a guided tour of the church, which costs 10 euros (around $10.60) per person and can be reserved  online . Walking is the best way to access this residential area of Nice, although a handful of bus routes, including Nos. 8 and 57, also have stops nearby, as does tram line 2 (stop Alsace-Lorraine)

Nice Cycle Tours Nice Cycle Tours

With more than 50 miles of bike paths, Nice is made for enjoying on two wheels. While the city's public bike and e-bike sharing scheme, Vélo Bleu, makes getting from point A to point B by bike a breeze, a bike tour allows you to experience the city from another perspective. Along with offering bike rentals, Nice Cycle Tours is a local business that offers guided e-bike tours led by local experts. For those who have just arrived in Nice, the 3.5-hour Nice City Cycle E-Bike tour covers all the highlights: Old Town (Vieux Nice), the Cours Saleya market , the Promenade des Anglais , the port and even up to Mont Boron, the ascent a breeze on an e-bike. The tour costs 50 euros (about $53) and it is recommended that you book in advance. Included in the price of the activity are helmets, bottles of water and other refreshments.

Nice Cycle Tours also offers a four-hour e-bike tour for the same price that visits Nice port as well as Mont Boron, the Fort de Mont Alban and the pretty fishing village of Villefranche-sur-Mer . Travelers who booked these tours comment that the e-bikes make easy work of the hills on the route. They are also happy to have been able to cover so much of the city in such a short period of time. Note that these excursions are for people aged 15 and over.

French Riviera Wine Tours French Riviera Wine Tours

Provence and the Côte d'Azur have a rich history of winemaking: in fact, it was here that wine grapes were first introduced to France by the ancient Greeks. Travelers can learn more about this viticultural heritage on a half- or full-day tour with French Riviera Wine Tours, a company based in Nice. Tours include a half-day wine tour to Bellet, the name of the wine appellation of Nice itself. The nine vineyards of Bellet are found in the western hills of the city and cultivate two grape varieties not grown anywhere else in the world: Braquet and La Folle Noire. On the tour, you'll visit two of these vineyards to sample red, white and rosé wines.

The company also offers a full-day tour from Nice into the Côtes de Provence winemaking area in the Var, the neighboring administrative department to the Alpes-Maritimes. In a group with a maximum of eight people, you will visit three different vineyards and sip Provence's famous rosé wine.

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Explore Nice

Plan your trip to nice: best of nice tourism.

Essential Nice

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Delightful day trips

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• Le Méridien Nice
• Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mediterranee
• Le Negresco
• Hotel La Pérouse
• Boscolo Nice Hotel&Spa
• La Cucina Nice
• La Route Du Miam
• Le Plongeoir
• Le Millésime
• L'Alchimie Restaurant
• Castle Hill of Nice
• Promenade des Anglais
• Marc Chagall National Museum
• Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya
• Mediterranean Coastal Sightseeing Cruise from Nice
• Monaco, Monte Carlo, Eze, la Turbie Full-Day from Nice Small-Group Tour
• Train Experience Through The Alps : The Baroque Royal Route & Salt Road Full Day
• Gorges du Verdon Shared Tour from Nice
• Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour

• Tourism in Nice
• Get Inspired
• Towns and Villages
• Alpes-Maritimes Tourism

Nice , capital of the French Riviera, located in the Alpes-Maritimes department, has a rich historical and cultural heritage. The picturesque alleys, the shingle beaches, the singing accent, the gastronomy and so on, make the city of the Riviera, a place where it is good to live. The old town of Nice was once the entire urban area. It has many architectural treasures hidden here and there. Among them, you can appreciate the art collections displayed in the city’s museums and galleries such as the Musée Matisse, the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art) also known as MAMAC, the Palais Lascaris, the Natural History Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts. The theaters , but also the Opera de Nice offer you a program of great diversity which participates in the cultural development of Nice.

Nice, a dynamic city and tourist destination of choice, reveals itself during market days. Markets color the city and are an integral part of its traditions. The one on the Cours Saleya is undoubtedly the most lively in the Old Town (Vieux Nice). Strolling through the city’s narrow streets, you can smell the heady perfume emanating from the stalls of local producers. A visit to the city inevitably includes a meal in a restaurant to taste the specialties of Nice : the salade niçoise, the pan bagnat, the farcis… Throughout the year, the city comes alive and various events are organized. The most famous are undoubtedly the Nice Carnival and the Nice Jazz Festival.

Nature enthusiasts can make the most of their holidays walking along the hiking trails that link the hills to the city center. They are ideal for discovering the city from another angle and admiring the beauty of the landscapes. The most athletic can also go to the coast to enjoy water sports such as diving, jet skiing, tubing or even a boat trip.

La Promenade des Anglais

The famous Promenade des Anglais runs the length of the Baie des Anges. Originally, it was just a trail that was renovated by Reverend Lewis Way in 1820. Later, the promenade was separated by a median strip and bordered by palm trees. Inaugurated in 1931 by one of Queen Victoria’s sons, the Promenade des Anglais is without a doubt the most famous monument in the city, renowned throughout the world . On the promenade, you walk along the sea on one side and along the facades of hotels and houses on the other.

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Castle Hill

The vast park of the Castle Hill in Nice extends over nearly 19 hectares. It offers a breathtaking view over the rooftops of the old town, the port and the beach. Particularly well laid out, it consists of shady promenades, children’s games and a waterfall built on an old keep of the Castle. The latter was completely destroyed in 1706. Excavations are currently in progress to find vestiges of the past, which have, for instance, led to the discovery of a 5th century paleo-Christian church.

Former Regina Hotel

Located on Cimiez Hill, the former Excelsior Regina Palace has been converted into a residential building. Typical of the architecture of the Belle Époque , the building is really imposing. It has 5 floors and is 104 meters long. Right opposite, there is a garden which can be reached by crossing a footbridge. It was built in 1892 for the English aristocracy and Queen Victoria.

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Notre-Dame de Nice

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Nice proudly stands in the center of Nice. It is the largest church in the city. It was built between 1864 and 1868 by the French architect Louis Lenormand, in the neo-gothic style . The project drew its inspiration from the abbey Saint-Serge of Angers and Notre-Dame de Paris in response to the desire for francization and modernization of the city . The building is dedicated to Notre-Dame de l’Assomption in reference to the former cathedral on the Castle Hill.

Tête carrée

“Tête carrée” (The Square Head) is a work of the sculptor Sacha Sosno. It is intended to be representative of the contemporary architecture of the city . 30 meters high and 14 meters wide, it houses the administrative offices of the Louis Nucéra public library. Among the 7 floors, 3 are located in the neck and 4 in the cube.

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Place Masséna

Dating back to the 1840s, the Place Masséna quickly became a symbol of the city. Surrounded by red buildings with arcades , it is also home to works of art. The Spanish artist Jaume Plensa imagined 7 sculptures entitled « Conversation à Nice » (Conversation in Nice) and which represent the 7 continents. The parade of the Nice Carnival, an event that cannot be ignored, crosses the square.

Practical information

• Tourist Office of Nice : https://www.explorenicecotedazur.com/en/
• Road service : A8 Highway (from Aix-en-Provence or the Italian border)
• Air access : Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
• Railroad access : TGV station
• Sea access : Port Lympia

nearby TOWns:

• Cagnes-sur-Mer

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nice

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When you first catch a glimpse of the seaside splendor and palm-fringed cityscape, you'll understand why painters such as Matisse and Chagall found inspiration in Nice. It's hard to compare with this setting: an expansive stretch of sunny Mediterranean coastline sheltered by rolling hills.

The historic center of town, with its cluster of brightly-painted red tile-roofed stucco buildings, Belle Epoque palaces, and Art Deco monuments, nestles along the Baie des Anges. The bay's cerulean blue waters skirt an expanse of pebbly shoreline. During summertime, the seafront is converted into small beaches with rows of parasols and lounge chairs.

Prized for its bustling waterfront promenade, beaches, and charming historic center, Nice epitomizes the French Riviera . You might be fooled into thinking it's just a resort town. Think again. Nice is a real working city, albeit a beautiful bay-front metropolis where the residents really know how to live.

Nice is one of the best places to visit in France to experience la belle vie (the good life). From wandering the quaint pedestrian streets of the Old Town to strolling the famous Promenade des Anglais, the delights of spending time in this cultured seaside city are endless. Plan your sightseeing itineraries with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Nice.

1. Vieille Ville (Old Town)

2. promenade des anglais, 3. place massena & fontaine du soleil, 4. parc de la colline du château (castle hill park), 5. musée matisse, 6. monastère notre-dame-de-cimiez, 7. musée d'art moderne et d'art contemporain, 8. promenade du paillon, 9. musée national marc chagall, 10. outdoor markets at the cours saleya, 11. musée masséna, 12. carnival de nice, 13. cathédrale orthodoxe russe saint-nicolas, 14. musée des beaux-arts, 15. place garibaldi & le petit marais, 16. coastal sightseeing cruises, 17. jardin des arènes de cimiez, 18. parc phoenix, where to stay in nice for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to nice, nice, france - climate chart.

You will not be able to resist the old-world charm of the Vieille Ville. Packed within the maze of narrow medieval streets and alleyways are apartment buildings strewn with drying laundry, locally owned cafés, tiny restaurants, épicerie s (grocers), boulangeries , pâtisseries, artisan ice cream shops, and a cathedral that still celebrates Mass regularly. This little tangle of urban life is popularly known as "Babazouk."

The Vieille Ville begins at the western end of the Colline du Château (Castle Hill) and is bounded by two busy streets: the Boulevard Jean Jaures and the Quai des États-Unis.

A good place to start a walking tour is at the Cours Saleya (the southern end of the Vieille Ville), which hosts an outdoor farmers' market every day except Mondays. The market is well known for its selection of colorful fresh flowers.

Next walk to the cathedral, the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate , a marvel of 17th-century Baroque architecture that stands on a compact square. Be sure to go inside. The sanctuary is larger and more opulent than you would expect. Take time to admire the gilded Corinthian columns and the sculpted cherubs surrounding grand masterpieces of painting.

Just a few steps away is the Eglise Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur , prized for its delicate frescoes and impressive sculpture collection.

From the cathedral, go for a stroll around the neighborhood. If you head toward the Rue Sainte-Réparate or the Ruelle de la Halle aux Herbes , you will come across a few enticing restaurants. Continue north to the Ruelle de la Boucherie , an alleyway that runs into the Rue de la Boucherie , where you will see gourmet food shops and other boutiques frequented by locals.

If you stumble upon the Rue de la Poissonnerie (a narrow street between the Cours Saleya and the cathedral), you will find two noteworthy places to stop. Look for the Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Annonciation (Chapelle Sainte-Rita), an ornately decorated 17th-century church, and for a tiny macaron shop & tea salon (located at number 6) called Angea .

Continuing farther north is the Palais Lascaris (15 Rue Droite), a sumptuous Baroque palace listed as a Monument Historique . The palace houses the Musée du Palais Lascaris , a collection of 17th- and 18th-century furniture, paintings, sculptures, Flemish tapestries, and musical instruments. The second floor of the palace reveals mythological-themed ceiling frescoes of the Italian school.

The first vacation-goers to discover Nice were British aristocrats, who arrived here in the 1820s. The Brits traded in grey drizzly English winters for la vie en rose under the sunny French Riviera skies. This gorgeous seaside promenade takes its name from those original visitors.

The Promenade des Anglais follows the curve of the Baie des Anges and its shoreline. This broad waterfront esplanade is reserved for walking, roller skating, rollerblading, and skateboarding . Everyone seems to come out to enjoy the sunshine and outdoor activity at the same time! A bike lane parallels the pedestrian promenade and next to that is a grassy median lined with palm trees.

You'll find plenty of locals here, walking their dogs, chatting with friends, or just taking in the unique slice of urban/seaside life in Nice. Everyone loves this promenade, from teenagers and college students who hang out on the beach, to older residents who come here to relax by the sea.

Why not join in the scene? Find one of the iconic blue-painted metal chairs (nailed in place so that they are more like a bench) or the slightly shaded benches beneath a few pergolas. If you prefer to be right on the beach, take one of the staircases down to the seafront.

Just behind the Promenade des Anglais, on the Quai des Etats Unis, is the Statue de la Liberté . This statue is a scaled-down version of the Statue of Liberty in New York.

Architectural highlights of the Promenade des Anglais include the Art Deco Palais de la Méditerranée (at number 13), now a five-star Hyatt Regency Hotel with a gourmet restaurant overlooking the sea, and the legendary Le Negresco (at number 37), which is listed as a Monument Historique . Le Negresco is a lavish five-star luxury hotel with a world-class art collection and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

The Place Massena is the centerpiece of Nice both physically and figuratively. It borders the Vieille Ville (Old Town) and is a short walk from the Promenade des Anglais. You must visit, ideally as soon as you arrive in Nice, to soak up the spirit of the city.

The square makes quite an impression with its enormous fountain. You can really feel the Italian influence here. The Fontaine du Soleil (Fountain of the Sun God) has an obvious Roman-inspired theme, and the Place Massena is full of life just like a piazza in Italy. Foca , a small shop that sells focaccia (an Italian specialty) sandwiches is found in the row of curved buildings across from the fountain.

Take a moment to admire the fountain. Notice the enormous size of the Apollo statue, at 7 meters in height. This is no ordinary Neoclassical statue. The artist really had a sense of humor! Look at Apollo's head, he's sporting a miniature chariot as a crown. And since he's so close to the beach, he's holding a towel but otherwise presents himself au naturel.

Of course, tourists head here to take selfies and travel pics, but locals also meet at the fountain and then walk to nearby eateries or cafés. At the northern end of the square on either side of the tram stop, there are two outdoor cafés. The tables spill out onto the square so that you may enjoy your coffee and conversation in the afternoon sunshine.

The section of Place Massena next to the tram stop (at Avenue Félix Jaure) is a hub of social and commercial life in Nice. You'll find it's almost always busy, day and night. This intersection leads to Avenue Jean Médecin , a modern street lined with shops like Sephora, Zara, and Mango. You could head in the opposite direction (south) towards the Avenue de Verdun to browse designer boutiques such as Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Hermès.

On a sunny afternoon, you will love the pleasant breezes and shade of this wooded hillside park. Even on a cloudy day, the Parc de la Colline du Château boasts some of the best views in Nice. The expanse of red-tile rooftops, church towers, and the sparkling Mediterranean coastline stretches out for miles before your eyes.

Note: Despite its name, Colline du Château does not have a castle. Unfortunately, the medieval château was destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706.

You can reach the Colline du Château by foot from the Old Town: Either head to the Quai des États-Unis and then take the Mont Lesage staircase or get there from the other side of town, by walking from Rue Catherine Segurane to the Mont Eberlé footpath . The first option will take you right to the Tour Bellanda observation deck. The second option is a better choice if you're coming from the direction of Place Garibaldi.

Either way, it's a delightful walk/hike through shady oak woodlands to reach the top of the Colline du Château park. The Tour Bellanda observation deck affords breathtaking views of the coastline.

For the most spectacular panoramic vistas, head to the Point de Vue terrace (where you'll find a Touring Club de France compass). Here you can see the Vieille Ville, the Promenade des Anglais, and the Baie des Anges. You'll want to spend some time soaking up the amazing scenery. If you're lucky, someone might be playing accordion music while you're there.

Below the terrace is a small café with tables on an outdoor patio that overlooks the Nice harbor and hillsides.

Author's Tips : The short uphill hike to the top of the Colline du Château park is somewhat strenuous. It's best not to attempt this on a hot summer day. In the summer, you might go early in the morning or take the elevator from the Rue des Ponchettes.

One of the highlights of the park is the cascade (waterfall) as well as the viewing platform above it. There's also a children's playground, scenic train rides (for a fee) for tourists, and an archaeological site.

The park is open every day from 8:30am until 6:00pm year-round (until 8:00pm in spring and summertime).

Address: Rue des Ponchettes, Rue de Foresta, Montée Montfort, Nice

Sitting on the hill of Cimiez, the Musée Matisse is a must-see attraction for anyone who appreciates modern art. This delightful museum occupies a 17th-century Italianate villa surrounded by gorgeous Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. The permanent collection represents an extensive and diverse assortment of Matisse's works.

There are 31 paintings, over 400 drawings, and 57 sculptures (almost all the sculptures Matisse ever created), along with interesting sketches for the decorations of the Chapel in Vence. The entire ensemble of works provides an overview of the artist's creative method and genius.

You will have a chance to admire some of the artist's masterpieces such as the Portrait de Madame Matisse from his Fauve period and Tahiti I and La Verdure from the 1930s. Matisse's signature "cut-outs" style of art is well represented, including the Nu Bleu and the enormous Fleurs et Fruits.

The museum is open every day year-round except Tuesdays. Guided tours are available in English and French.

Address: 164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice

Near the Matisse Museum, the Monastère Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez is nestled in the hilltop Cimiez neighborhood, directly above the ancient ruins of Cemenelum . Below the monastery are vestiges of the Roman baths and amphitheater.

Originally a Benedictine foundation, the monastery was taken over by the Franciscans in the 16th century and extended in the 17th century. Its present appearance is characterized by the restoration carried out according to neo-Gothic models in 1850.

Today the Cimiez Monastery is listed as a Monument Historique and houses a museum about the history of local Franciscan monks since the 13th century. The museum also contains a collection of frescoes and religious art.

The monastery's 15th-century church is adorned with three masterpieces of painting by Louis Bréa, the renowned Italian painter.

You will enjoy wandering the monastery's luxuriant grounds, landscaped with Mediterranean trees and a rose garden. Vantage points from the garden offer sweeping views of the town all the way to the sea.

Address: Place du Monastère, Nice

The Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain was opened in 1990. Housed in a sleek building created by architects Yves Bayard and Henri Vidal, the building has four towers faced in Carrara marble from quarries in Carrara, Italy.

The museum's collection represents a cross-section of fine arts from the 1950s through the 1970s, including Pop Art and American abstract art. Particularly noteworthy are works on display by Yves Klein, of the Nouveaux Réalistes (New Realism) movement, who was born in Nice in 1928.

Be sure to check out the rooftop, which offers 360-degree panoramas of the Nice cityscape. You can walk around the circular rooftop walking path, to check out the vistas from four different vantage points. Each viewing platform features an interesting perspective on the city, such as an outlook onto the Old Town and the sea or a view of the hilltop Cimiez neighborhood.

Address: Place Yves Klein, Nice

The Promenade du Paillon provides a breath of fresh air and calming green space, right in the heart of Nice next to the Place Massena. The garden is sandwiched between the Avenue de Verdun and the Boulevard Jean Jaures.

It's more of a locals' hang-out spot than a tourist destination. Still, you should stop by on your way back from visiting the nearby Fontaine du Soleil or on the way to the Promenade des Anglais. You will get a taste of what life is like for Nice residents, who come here to chat with friends, go for a stroll, or bring their kids to the playground.

The centerpiece of the Promenade du Paillon is the Miroir d'Eau water fountain. This modern installation features dozens of water jets that spray a cool mist. The fountains spout water in a synchronized fashion, and sometimes music accompanies the show. In the evenings, the Miroir d'Eau is illuminated.

The southern end of the Promenade du Paillon incorporates the Jardin Albert 1er (although signs indicating the name of this garden are hard to find). You'll know you're there when you see the shady trees, manicured shrubs, central fountain, and old-fashioned carousel. The Promenade des Anglais is just steps away from the Jardin Albert 1er.

The Jardin Albert 1er has a pleasant open-air theater, the Théâtre de Verdure surrounded by pine and palm trees. In the spring and summer, this outdoor venue offers music concerts, including rock festivals and performances by popular rock bands.

Admirers of Marc Chagall will be delighted by this museum, which houses a remarkable assortment of Chagall's biblical-themed works. The collection contains 12 large paintings depicting Old Testament illustrations, as well as a wide selection of paintings created by Chagall throughout his lifetime.

Pleasant green space surrounds the museum. The natural landscaping of olive trees, cypresses, oaks, and Mediterranean flora gives the impression of a Garden of Eden. Agapanthus flowers were planted in the garden because they bloom in early July, around the time of Chagall's birthday.

The Musée National Marc Chagall also has a lovely garden café and a gift shop.

Address: Avenue Docteur Ménard, Nice

Nice is famous for its Flower Market (Marché aux Fleurs) in the Old Town. Local vendors sell a wide selection of colorful flowers from stalls with striped awnings. This vibrant scene looks like an image from a painting.

The flower market is part of a traditional open-air Provençal market held at the Cours Saleya. Besides flowers, the Marchés aux Fruits et aux Légumes (Fruit and Vegetable Markets) sells farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and other food products.

You will be wowed by the variety and array of products. Just the choice of vegetables is astounding, from the perfect eggplant to ten kinds of tomatoes and three types of artichokes. Plus, you might see products rarely found outside of France such as white asparagus, endive, fresh beets, and tiny wild strawberries.

The Marché aux Fleurs (Flower Market) and Marchés aux Fruits et aux Légumes are held every day, from 6:00am until 1:00pm, except Mondays.

The Villa Masséna exemplifies a Belle Epoque mansion of the late 19th century. Set within a lush Mediterranean garden, this opulent building is registered as a Monument Historique and the first floor is a gem of interior design.

The Villa Masséna houses the Musée Masséna art collection. Exhibits display military-themed paintings that depict the victorious battles of Napoleon I, as well as 19th-century landscape paintings featuring the coastal scenery of Nice.

Other highlights include the antiques, graphic arts, hand-painted porcelain vases, a portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the tiara of Empress Josephine (the first wife of Napoleon).

The museum is open every day year-round except Tuesdays. Hours are 10:00am until 5:00pm (until 6:00pm in summertime).

Address: 65 Rue de France or 35 Promenade des Anglais, Nice

The Carnival de Nice has its origins in the Catholic tradition of merrymaking prior to Lent. Every year for two weeks in February, the city of Nice hosts a wild and crazy festival that draws huge crowds numbering in the hundreds of thousands.

Spectators marvel over the fabulous parades of eye-catching floats and dazzling entertainment, such as Brazilian dancers and regional folk groups from the County of Nice. Other parades showcase giant puppets called " grosses têtes " and decorations made of fresh flowers.

The Nice Carnival is one of the most well-attended and popular events on the French Riviera.

The Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas is considered one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches outside Russia. This exquisite cathedral was built in 1912 and is classified as a Monument Historique .

Designed in the Muscovite style, the cathedral's richly decorated interior has the appearance of a jewel box with its ornamental icons, murals, and gilded iconostasis. The cathedral's crypt houses a museum .

The cathedral is still used as a place of worship. Religious services take place on Sunday mornings. Visitors are admitted but must respect certain rules: For men, wearing a shirt is required. For women, mini skirts and shorts are not allowed, shoulders should be covered, and a head covering is preferred.

You may visit the cathedral Monday through Saturday (9:00am until 1:00pm and 2:00pm until 6:00pm) and on Sundays (2:00pm until 6:00pm). Guided tours of the cathedral are available (in English, French, or Japanese) daily.

Address: Avenue Nicolas II and Boulevard Tzarévitch, Nice

In the university district of Les Baumettes, the Musée des Beaux-Arts offers an extensive collection of works spanning the 16th to 20th centuries. The collection includes French paintings, as well as Italian and Flemish works.

Highlights are the 17th- and 18th-century French paintings, and 19th-century paintings and sculptures. Artists represented include Jules Chéret, Fragonard, Jan Brueghel de Velours, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, Pierre Bonnard, and Raoul Dufy.

Address: 33 Avenue des Baumettes, Nice

A short walk away from the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain, the Place Garibaldi is one of the largest squares in Nice. Designed in the late 18th century and bordered by stately Baroque buildings, the square now has a modern urban feel as it is at the junction of four high-traffic thoroughfares and is crossed by a tramline.

Gracing the square is a statue of a famous Nice resident, the Italian freedom fighter Garibaldi. Place Garibaldi also has an old-fashioned carousel, an outdoor café, a pâtisserie boutique, and a few restaurants with al fresco dining patios. Take a coffee or meal break, to soak up the afternoon sunshine and people-watch at one of the outdoor terraces.

One of the trendiest neighborhoods in Nice, Le Petit Marais is found between Place Garibaldi and the port. This charming quarter is known for its restaurants and nightlife.

At the heart of the restaurant scene in Le Petit Marais, you will find the charming pedestrian-only Place du Pin . This hub of social activity attracts a young crowd. Many of the restaurants have outdoor terraces for al fresco dining during the warmer months. During wintertime, the restaurants cover their terraces for a cozy atmosphere.

Nearby, the Rue Bonaparte is packed with casual eateries, cafés, pastry shops, specialty grocers, and gourmet food purveyors.

If you want to check out another place where locals hang out, head to the Port de Nice (Vieux Port). This historic port serves as a fishing harbor and also features a selection of trendy waterfront restaurants and cafés.

A sightseeing cruise is one of the best ways to appreciate the gorgeous Mediterranean landscape of Nice. The area around Nice abounds with stunning scenery, from the cerulean waters of the Baie des Anges to the picturesque coastline of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

An excellent choice for first-time visitors, the one-hour Coastal Cruise from Nice departs from the Port of Nice and travels around the Baie des Anges and down the coastline. Along the way, tourists can admire the distinctive landscape of mountains, hilltop villages, and seaside villas. Commentary about the sights and the region's history adds to the experience.

Set in a grove of hundred-year-old olive trees, this lovely garden across from the Cimiez Monastery is a wonderful place of relaxation. On sunny days, locals enjoy going for leisurely strolls in the garden. Tourists will appreciate this space for its refreshing greenery, as well as the amazing sea views from the terraces.

Not just for nature lovers, the Jardin des Arènes de Cimiez also appeals to history buffs. Besides shady trees and welcome green space, the park boasts archaeological remains (an amphitheater and baths) from the ancient Roman city of Cemenelum. The garden is open to the public free of charge.

Address: 184 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice

Families with young kids will want to visit the Parc Phoenix, at the very end of the Promenade des Anglais near the airport. This seven-hectare park includes a botanical garden plus a playground and a zoo. The zoo is home to otters, porcupines, turtles, wallabies, parrots, and flamingoes, among other animals.

Address: 405 Promenade des Anglais, Nice

The best place to stay in Nice is close to the waterfront and the Promenade des Anglais, where you can enjoy the beach and soak up the seaside ambiance. The Old Town, or Vieille Ville, is just a short distance to the east at the base of the Colline du Château (Castle Hill). Below are some highly-rated hotels in great locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Right on the Promenade des Anglais and in the center of all the action is the Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée . This five-star hotel features a spectacular pool area overlooking the sea and a chic restaurant that serves Mediterranean cuisine.
• Clinging to the cliffs below Colline du Château and just steps away from the Vieille Ville, the four-star Hôtel La Pérouse offers elegant guest rooms and memorable gourmet dining. The hotel's garden-patio restaurant is set in a grove of lemon trees. Guests are also enchanted by the views of the city and bay from the rooftop sundeck.
• A converted Belle Epoque mansion, the four-star Hôtel Petit Palais provides spacious guest rooms and delightful terrace gardens. The hotel is within walking distance of the Musée Matisse and the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A short walk from the Promenade des Anglais, La Villa Nice Victor Hugo offers bright, cheerful contemporary-style rooms in an elegant building of the Belle Epoque era.
• A few blocks away from the Nice train station, the three-star ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare features whimsical decor and a sunny outdoor patio where breakfast is served.
• The Hôtel Florence Nice is tucked away on a pleasant pedestrian-only street, close to the Vieille Ville and just a five-minute walk to the Promenade des Anglais. This three-star hotel has a variety of rooms; some feature terraces with city views.

Budget Hotels:

• Built on terraces of a lush hillside overlooking the sea, Le Panoramic is a two-star boutique hotel with stylish accommodations and fabulous views for the price. Most rooms have a private balcony or terrace. The hotel is a bit out of the way from most tourist attractions.
• Conveniently located in the center of Nice, the Hôtel Star is just a 10-minute walk from the Vieille Ville. This two-star hotel has basic but comfortable rooms.

An organized tour is a great way to make sure you see all the highlights of this Côte d'Azur capital, without having to navigate your way around. You will also have a chance to see more sights in a short time, since most tour companies create day-trip itineraries that include the area's top places to visit. Below are some recommended tour options:

• See the Top Sights : The Nice City Tour covers the top cultural attractions of Nice: the Promenade des Anglais, the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain, the Russian Orthodox Church, Castle Hill, the Cimiez quarter, and Place Garibaldi. The tour also includes a drive along the Middle Corniche road with its sweeping coastal views.
• Bike around the City : Enjoy the idyllic scenery of tree-lined boulevards, sun-soaked beaches, and the fishing harbor on the Nice City Cycle Tour . The three-hour cycling itinerary also takes you past the Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill. This is a small-group tour with a maximum of 14 people. Bikes and helmets are included.
• Visit Monaco and Eze : The Monaco and Eze Small-Group Day Trip includes visits to two favorite French Riviera destinations. The medieval hilltop town of Eze delights, with its narrow cobblestone streets and breathtaking sea views. In glamorous Monaco, a fascinating Old Town, the magnificent Prince's Palace, and luxuriant gardens await visitors.
• Tour Stunning Seaside Towns : Another guided tour that includes Monaco and Eze, the French Riviera Small Group Day Trip also stops in Cannes, Monte-Carlo, and the beautiful beach town of Juan-les-Pins. This itinerary allows you to visit several of the most famous places on the French Riviera.

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Highlights of the French Riviera : Overlooking the serene, azure waters of the Baie des Anges, Nice is located near other gorgeous and glamorous French Riviera destinations like Monaco (20 kilometers away) and Cannes (33 kilometers away). Many smaller seaside towns and charming villages are also within easy reach from Nice on the Côte d'Azur coastline.

The Charm of Provence : For those who want to explore the pastoral region of Provence , it's worth driving outside Nice to the picturesque countryside, where the hilltops are dotted with enchanting medieval perched villages. Noteworthy Provençal towns close to Nice include Saint-Paul de Vence and Grasse. About a two-hour drive from Nice are the quintessential Provençal town of Aix-en-Provence and the bustling seaport of Marseilles .

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Nice travel guide | best things to do in nice, france.

What to see, do, eat and where to stay while visiting Nice, France on a budget.

It’s easy to see why people flock to Nice. First, the weather is amazing (hello 300 days of sunshine) and we love how the city is a great blend of France and Italy (i.e. lots of great food). Its large beach and cute old town are perfect for people-watching. Nice also has a lot of solid shopping and museums to check out. Additionally, Nice is the perfect home-base for exploring the smaller cities and towns of the French Riveria or if you’re just stopping by as part of a larger tour of France.

In this Nice Travel Guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Nice and help you find what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get around while traveling on a budget.

How Much To Budget For Nice

The words “budget” and “French Riveria” usually don’t go together but Nice can still be a budget destination with a bit of planning.

We recommend budgeting around €35-€60/day if you’re on a backpacker’s budget. You can easily spend more, and you might be able to spend less, but this is a good range for planning purposes. Our Nice, France Travel Price Guide has a more in-depth breakdown of travel costs if you want to learn more.

How Long To Visit Nice

The highlights of Nice can be seen in about two days but you can easily add a few more days to explore the multiple day-trips from Nice that dot the coast of the French Riveria — like Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cap Ferrat, and Eze. There are also a number of inland cities that can be easily reached via Nice. A lot of travelers include Nice as part of a bigger trip through Southern France/Provence.

We spent six nights in Nice but traveled at a fairly leisurely pace and explored a few of the surrounding towns. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can explore Nice itself in about two days and then add an extra day or two for the surrounding areas.

The Good and Not-So-Good of Nice

We always like to cover the good and the bad of every city to help give you a quick idea of what you’ll experience when visiting Nice.

• Weather: Nice gets 300+ days of sunshine.
• Food: Nice is near Italy so there is a lot of good Italian food as well as good French food. And, of course, there are some tasty local specialties.
• Nature and Views: One of the main draws to Nice (and the rest of the French Riveria) are the beautiful natural views. There’s a reason so many artists lived and worked in Nice and the French Riviera throughout the years (Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Paul Cezanne, Henri Matisse, etc.)
• Beaches: Nice has a long stretch of beach that draws both tourists and locals.
• Hiking: The French Riviera offers plenty of leisurely hiking opportunities — most of which don’t require anything other than a sturdy pair of shoes.
• Gateway To The Riviera: Nice makes an excellent home base to explore the rest of the French Riviera — most of which are easily connected by buses or trains.

The Not-So-Good

• Summer Crowds: Like most towns in Europe, Nice does get a bit busy during the summer so you might have to fight the crowds. Make sure to make dinner reservations.
• Rocky Beach: The beach is great but you’ll want shoes/sandals if you plan on walking along the beach. Additionally, the water gets deep quickly so you can’t venture too far from the beach. That said, there are plenty of sandy beaches in the nearby towns.
• Summer Heat: Nice can get pretty toasty in the middle of summer — which is great for the beach but it not ideal for doing hikes and long walks.
• Lack Of A/C: The summers can be hot but not all hotels and rental apartments have air conditioning. Furthermore, the Old Town can be a little noisy at night so keeping your windows open can make it hard to sleep.
• Tourist Prices: Nice’s main industry is tourism so you have to seek out the good deals if you’re traveling on a budget (but that’s what this guide is for).

Get Orientated

Here is some practical information to help you plan your trip to Nice.

Getting Into Nice

The Nice-Ville Train Station is located in the northern part of the city. The Nice Tram is about a five-minute walk from the train station — which will take you to the old town and fairly close to the beach. It’s about a 20-minute walk to get to the old town. There will also be taxis or you can call an Uber.

The Nice Airport ( Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur ) is only a few miles from Nice.

• A taxi ride should be a fixed rate of €32 (including luggage) if you’re going into the city center (be careful of drivers who don’t charge the fixed fare).
• The #98 and #99 express airport buses  connect the airport to the city center for €6/ticket ( Aéro Ticket ). There are a number of city buses that connect the city with the airport for €1.50/ticket but it’s slower and not super convenient with luggage.
• Uber is also popular in Nice. Expect to spend around €20-€25.
• There is currently a tram being constructed from the airport to the city center but delays have pushed back the opening date to sometime in 2019.

Getting Around Nice

The bus and the tram are the main ways to get around Nice via public transportation. Single tickets are €1.50 per ride and you can buy them directly from the diver or automated machines. You can also buy a €5 unlimited day ticket from the machines.

Of course, Nice is a fairly compact city so we pretty much walked everywhere without much trouble. For example, from the Old Town to the beach is about a five-minute walk and the Old Town to the train station was a 20-minute walk.

Taxis and Uber  are also plentiful — although taxis are very expensive. For example, our 10-minute Uber ride from the Old Town to the Chagall Museum was around €10 but a taxi would have been about double.

You won’t want to use a car to get around Nice.

Nice also has a cheap  bike sharing program called  Velo Bleu — simply take a bike from one of the many stations throughout the city. That said, lots of visitors find it difficult to use (especially if you don’t speak French) because of the service’s quirks, finicky stations, and broken bikes.

Where To Stay in Nice (Neighborhoods)

Nice is roughly divided into four main areas — the Old Town (Vieux Nice), City Center, the Beach Front (which spans the Old Town and the City Center), and the Port. Ok, there are a few more neighborhoods but we’ve only listed the ones most popular with visitors. You’ll find a variety of accommodation options in each neighborhood at all price ranges.

Old Town ( Vieux Nice )

Nice’s 16th century Old Town (Vieux Nice) is the cute, largely pedestrian-only part of town that’s packed full of restaurants, bars, cafes, markets, etc. The area is safe and lively so expect a bit of noise as people enjoy these narrow winding streets. You’ll find a handful of small hotels and a plenty of rental apartments in this area. [ See On Google Maps ]

City Center/New Town

The area roughly east of the Old Town is considered the City Center. Here you’ll find plenty of modern shopping, wider streets and sidewalks, “newer” buildings (well, when compared to the 16th century Old Town), and plenty of restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. There are a lot of budget-friendly options in the neighborhood but the area around the train station does feel a bit seedier but prices there are more affordable. [ See On Google Maps ]

Beach Front

Naturally, the areas close to the beach (i.e. along the  Promenade des Anglais ) tend to mostly be luxury hotels. Most budget travelers probably won’t be staying here but there are still a handful of fairly affordable rental apartments in the area. Luckily Nice is fairly compact so you’re never very far away from the beach. [ See On Google Maps ]

To the west of Old Town is Nice’s port neighborhood. The port is lively and has plenty of hip bars, restaurants, and nightlife. This area doesn’t attract a ton of tourists so it’s a nice spot if you want to get a more local feel of Nice — plus the accommodation and food is cheaper. That said, getting to the beach is a little more difficult since there is a large hill separating the port and the rest of Nice. [ See On Google Maps ]

Best Hostels In Nice

Nice only has about 15 hostels but many of them are well-rated and affordable. Nice does get busy in the summer so you might want to book in advance to get the best price. We recommend checking out Hostelworld to see the most current review and rates.

• Hostel Meyerbeer Beach
• Villa Saint Exupery Beach
• Antares Hostel
• Hostel Baccarat
• Hostel OZZ By Happyculture

Looking for a budget hotel? We suggest checking out  Booking.com  to see hotel prices for your dates since they’re always changing.

Best Things To Do In Nice

Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do in Nice, France.

Promenade des Anglais

The star of the show in Nice is its long Promenade that winds along its white pebble beach. Enjoy a stroll along this four-mile promenade and get your fill of people watching. The eastern side of the promenade offers some great city views and views of the harbor. Head back at night and listen to the street musicians as you stroll along.

Or rent a bike for a few hours! The promenade has dedicated bike lanes and it’s a pretty easy ride. We got our bikes (€4/hr or €10/day) from a place on promenade called Roller Station . It took us about an hour to bike from end to end and back.

You can’t visit Nice without spending some time on its white pebble beaches . Word of caution, the pebbles are painful to walk on so bring sandals or beach shoes. Also, bring a beach towel because are a little painful to sit on and the salty film will rub off on your pants. Also, the water becomes deep very quickly so it’s not ideal for swimming.

All the beaches are open to the public but there are a few private sections with lounge chairs and umbrellas that can be rented for about €20/day (€15 for a half day) — you can also just rent a towel for around €5. These are usually run by hotels but anyone can rent a spot — but you might want to snag one early in the summer. Waiters will also walk around to serve you food/drink.

TIP: Visit the nearby Farmers Market to pick up some goodies for a cheap beach picnic.

Explore Old Town ( Vieux Nice )

Nice’s Old Town dates back to the 16th Century so it’s fun to spend the day wandering its narrow streets. We wouldn’t say there are many “must see” sighs within the Old Town so just explore, get lost, and enjoy the ambiance. Stop at one of the many sidewalk cafes for a drink or stroll around with some gelato. [ See On Google Maps ]

Castle Hill

Castle Hill is perched along the eastern edge of the Old Town and towers above Nice so it’s a great place for some amazing views and photo-ops of the city and the port. At the top, you’ll also find a nice park, a waterfall, and the castle cemetery. There is a free elevator to the top or you can walk up its steps [ See On Google Maps ].

Tip: Visit during the sunset.

Farmer’s and Flower Market

There is a Farmers and Farmer’s market (Cours Saleya Market) every day in Nice’s Old Town — except Monday when its a flea market. It’s full of meat, cheese, fresh produce, and sweets. You can also buy prepared food. Be sure to try the local traditional snack called  Socca (basically a large chickpea pancake) that are served fresh all day — the best Socca stall at the market is Theresa Socca (you can’t miss her). [ See On Google Maps ]

Ave Jean Medecin

Avenue Jean Medecin is a long boulevard that stretches from the old town to the train station. The avenue is lined with tons of shopping (mostly big name brands) and some restaurants. Note: There is an excellent gelato place on the avenue called  Cesar Milano — it’s 100% worth the walk.

Promenade de Paillon

The Promenade de Paillon is a long walkway/greenway that essentially separates the Old Town and New Town. It’s a nice stroll and you find lots of children enjoying the water fountain park during warm weather.

Nice has a few great museums but the best is the Chagall Museum that features the largest public collection of Chagall works. It’s a fairly small museum and we found the audio guide to be very helpful and informative — highly recommended. Tickets are €8 for adults and the audioguide is €2.

The other two popular museums in Nice are the Matisse Museum (the largest collection of Henri Matisse) and the  Museum of Modern Art and Contemporary Art (which also has great city views from the roof).

Nice also has a number of smaller museums. Check out the  French Riviera Pass as it covers multiple museums and other sighs/attractions in Nice and the surrounding towns. It’s available 1, 2 or 3 days for €26/€38/€56. There is also a Nice Museum Pass that gives 7-day access to municipal museums for €20. Check out the Nice Tourism Office for more information on all of Nice’s museums.

Fort Mount Alban

This 16th-century fort is perched in the hills above Nice, Villefranche, & Cap Ferrat. Make your way to the top for gorgeous panoramic views of the towns and the coast. It’s a fairly leisurely hour-long walk from Nice (there are some steep steps/slopes but it’s mostly paved) or you can take the #14 bus. Not many people make the journey so it’s a good way to escape the tourist crowds.

Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Nice has an impressive Russian Orthodox Cathedral that was completed in 1912. It’s a bit outside the city center but it’s worth a visit if you have the time.

Coastal Walk To Villefranche

Hiking lovers can make the two-hour trek from Nice to Villefranche — which is almost most entirely along the coast. It’s a nice walk if you’re in Nice for more than a few days.

Other Things To Do In Nice

Check out the upscale  Cimiez Neighborhood  in the northern part of Nice as it’s home to Roman ruins, beautiful monastery gardens, thermal baths, and a nice park. It’s also home to a few museums — notably the Musée Matisse and Marc Chagall National  Museum.

Take a cruise around Nice to get a beautifully unique perspective of theCôte d’Azur. Trans Côte d’Azur cruise company offers an hour-long cruise along the coastline for €18. They also offer longer cruises to Monaco, Cannes, ST-Tropez, and a few other locations.

For amazing views of Nice , we suggest Castle Hill, the rooftop of the Modern Art Museum, and the Nice Observatory (two-hour walk or an hour bus ride).

Looking for something a bit bizarre? Check out Cunégonde et Malabar — home of conceptual artist Ben Vautier. He decorated the outside of this home in signs, gnomes, toilets, and other found objects. That said, it’s not the easiest place to get to [ See On Google Maps ]. Here are his directions to his place.

Tours and Activities

There are a number of tours and other activities available in Nice and in the area. Check out Viator  to book a wide range of activities. Here are a few highlights:

• Nice City Bike Tour
• French Riviera Electric Bike Tour from Nice
• Half-Day E-Bike Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting from Nice
• Small-Group Nice Food Tour: Provencal Specialties
• Nice Segway Tour
• Provence Countryside Small Group Day Trip

French Riveria Pass & Nice Museum Pass

Looking to fill your days while visiting the French Riviera? Take a look at the newly introduced  French Riviera Pass as it includes admission to multiple museums and activities in Nice and the neighboring towns. The pass comes in three versions 24h(€26), 48h(€38), and 72h(€56). So take a look to see if this pass could save you money on the sites you were probably going to see anyways.

A few of the highlights are:

• Oceanographic Museum in Monaco
• Picasso Museum
• Museum of Modern Art (MAMAC)
• Marc Chagall Museum
• Renoir Museum
• Rothschild Villa and Gardens
• Double-Decker Bus Tour
• Segway Tour
• Bike Rental
• 1-Hour Ocean Cruise

There is also a Nice Museum Pass that gives 7-day access to municipal museums for €20. Check out the Nice Tourism Office for more information on all of Nice’s museums.

Where & What To Eat In Nice

Since Nice is so close to Italy you’ll find that a lot of the food is a mix of French and Italian (there’s plenty of international food as well). Tourism is the main industry in Nice so food prices tend to be a bit on the high side. Luckily, there are still a handful of places serving up quality meals for a fair price but you’ll want to do your research — furthermore, the budget-friendly places fill up quickly so reservations are highly recommended.

Traditional   Cuisine

Want to try traditional Nicoise cuisine ? Look for restaurants that have earned the certification Cuisine Nissarde . These restaurants will have an official sticker posted on their window to let you know they use traditional local recipes made with fresh ingredients. Here’s the official list of the fewer than 30  Cuisine Nissarde Certifies  Restaurants in Nice.

Local Dishes

• Socca: Socca is essentially a thin, slightly crispy chickpea pancake. This traditional street food is a popular on-the-go snack and is often consumed with a cold beer on a sidewalk cafe. You can find Socca at the Nice Farmers Market (the best is  Chez Thérésa ) or at a few restaurants around town (we recommend  Chez Pipo ).
• La Daube Niçoise:  This hearty tradition beef stew is made from red wine, bacon, tomatoes, carrots, mushroom, onions, garlic, and celery and is traditionally served over gnocchi.
• Ravioli Niçois: You can often find the Daube Niçoise in ravioli form as well.
• Salade Niçoise: This traditional Nice salad has lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, tomatoes, olives, anchovies, and olive oil.
• Le Pan Bagnat: This is basically a Salade Niçoise on a sandwich. This is a nice takeaway food.
• Ratatouille: This classic French vegetable dish was invented in Nice.
• Pissaladière: Caramelized onion tart that is often topped with anchovy.
• Petits Farcis: Vegetables (usually eggplant, tomatoes or zucchini) stuffed with meat and vegetables.
• Panisse: Fries made of chickpea flour.
• Tourte de Blettes:  This dessert dish is a bit unusual but it was actually very tasty. It’s made of Swiss chard (a leafy green kind of like spinach), apples, raisins, pine nuts, and brown sugar in a pie crust. Then it’s all topped with powdered sugar. We know, it sounds weird but it was pretty good.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants & Street Food

There are a number of takeaway restaurants where you can order a sandwich, panini, pizza, or other simple street foods. Additionally, you can also find a handful of affordable sit-down restaurants throughout the city — we always recommend making a reservation if possible. And of course, there are a number of grocery stores (like Monoprix ) throughout the city.

Places to Checkout:

Illia Pasta : It’s a small barebones restaurant but the owner/chef serves up fresh, affordable, and tasty pasta. There isn’t much ambiance inside so snag one of the outdoor tables for some lovely al fresco dining. You can also get your pasta to go. Great Old Town location.

Chez Palmyre : An excellent place to get a traditional, home-style French cooking. We recommend their €18 three-course menu. Reservations encouraged.

Creperie Le Trimaran : A nice little crepes place. You can get a savory and dessert crepe for under €10.

L’Atelier de Julien : Friendly pizza joint but it’s a bit outside Old Town.

Made in Sud Pizzeria : Neopolitian pizza place near the Port.

Chez Pipo : The most popular place to get socca.

A Buteghinn : A small restaurant in the middle of Old Town serving up traditional “ certification Cuisine Nissarde” dishes. The restaurant is run/owned by three sweet French women. Mostly outdoor seating. They also have preprepared takeaway food if you’re on the go. Reservations recommended. Cash only.

Lou Pilha Leva : Outdoor picnic style seating at this takeaway restaurant in the heart of Old Town. Stop by for a quick traditional snack and cold beer. The chicken and fries for €8.50 is a solid deal.

Chez Rene Socca : A chaotic and no-frills place in Old Town that serves up local street food at affordable prices. There are tables outside available but you’re required to buy a drink. There is always a line but service is quick.

Badaboom Bistro And BeJuice Bar : Hip hole-in-the-wall restaurant serving organic vegan food and juices. Nice owners. It’s a bit expensive but the quality is solid.

Tartine et Galinette : Another fairly barebones spot serving up cheap but tasty pizza, sandwiches, and other simple meals.

Le Falafel : An authentic family-run middle eastern restaurant serving up fresh falafel and shawarma dishes. Quick and friendly service.

Oliviera : Ok, Oliviera is slightly too expensive to be considered “budget” but the food gets rave reviews and the jovial owner is super welcoming and passionate about olive oil. Everything is homemade by the owner and his wife. Located in the Old Town. Open for lunch only. Reservations strongly suggested.

Farmers Market : The Farmers Market is a great place to get all kinds of fresh produce and prepared food — from cheese and bread to bruschetta and fruit. Open every day, from 6 am to 5.30 pm except Mondays, Sunday afternoons and public holidays.

L’Autre Part : This hip and welcoming wine bar run by a nice couple is a great place to escape the tourist crowds. They serve organic wines as well as excellent charcuterie and cheese. Located in the Port neighborhood.

Ice Cream and Gelato

There are quite a few gelato/ice cream places around Nice but our friend from Nice (she’s Italian so she knows her gelato) gave us a few of her favorite spots.

Cesar Milano: Our friend’s favorite gelato place in Nice was easily Cesar Milano in the New Town. We literally tried about 10 different flavors — each was excellent. The owner/chef is usually on-site and he’s happy to suggest flavor pairings. He makes both classic and a few more creative flavors so don’t be shy about asking to sample a flavor you might normally shy away from.

Oui, Jelato : Our friend also recommended Oui, Jelato in the Old Town. They have mostly classic flavor offerings. We both enjoyed our gelato.

Fenocchio Glacier : Fenocchio is easily the most popular ice cream shop in Nice — there is always a crowd of people jostling for a spot to get their scoops. They have a ton of flavors. We both got ice cream here and enjoyed it. Located in the Old Town.

Nice Day Trips

Nice is surrounded by a number of small cities and towns which make great day trips. Even better, each is easily connected to Nice via bus or train — both of which are very inexpensive. You can also take a ferry from Nice to a few of the towns (it’s a bit more expensive but the views are priceless).

French Riveria Seaside Towns

Below is a list of the most popular cities to visit from Nice — each is located along the coast of the French Riveria.

To the east of Nice , there’s Villefranche-sur-Mer , St. Jean  Cap Ferrat , Eze-le-Village , Monaco , and Menton . To the west of Nice , there’s Antibes and Cannes . There are a few other small towns but these are the most popular destinations.

Villefranche-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a laid-back port town that’s less than a 10-minute train or a 20-minute bus ride (#81 or #100 / €1.50) from Nice. A separate village, Cap Ferrat, is a short bus ride away and are often seen on the same day.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a small seaside postcard-perfect French fishing village with a picturesque port. The cute old town is very small so it takes less than an hour to wander through all its tiny streets (maybe a little more if you get a drink down by the harbor). Perched above the city is an old citadel with thick, imposing walls that you’re free to explore. But the harbor is Villefranche-sur-Mer’s main attraction. Its super deep waters make it a favorite parking spot for mega-yachts. There are a number of restaurants along the port so it’s a great place to have a quiet drink or bite to eat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a 45min-60min hike up to F ort   du   Mont – Alban — an old fortification that has great views of Nice, Villefranche and the rest of the Cote d’Azur. You can also take a bus/uber if you’re feeling lazy.

From Villefranche-sur-Mer, you can take a 15-minute bus ride (Bus #81 / €1.50) to the peninsula of  Cap Ferrat . There isn’t too much to see in the town of St. Jean Cap Ferrat. That said, there are a few fun seasides walks around the peninsula — a walk around the entire peninsula will take a little under 3 hours or a smaller walk (which we took) will take about an hour at a leisurely pace.

The main reason for most people visit is to see the impressive Rothschild Mansion and Gardens . Some people go straight from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Rothschild Mansion (~10minute via bus from Villefranche) and skip the town. The grounds of the Rothschild Mansion are very beautiful and it’s easy to spend a few hours soaking in the views.

Eze-le-Village

Eze is actually separated into two parts — Eze-le-Village and Eze-Bord-de-Mer. We only visited Eze-le-Village (which is perched high in the hills over the ocean) because we were told Eze-Bord-de-Mer (which is located along the coast) doesn’t offer much to see.

From Nice, take bus #82 or #112 and enjoy the views on this 30-minute ride (sit on the righthand side of the bus) to Eze-le-Village. Be sure to check the bus schedule. There is supposed to be one or two buses every hour but for us, it was only once every two hours — which was kind of annoying (maybe since we went off-season).

In Eze-le-Village head up to the Old Town of the village — specifically the Eze Gardens. The views from gardens are well worth the €6 entrance fees. There is a super expensive restaurant/bar (Chateau Eza) with world-class Cote d’Azur views or there are a few cheaper options as well.

There isn’t much more to see in Eze-le-Village (other than two touristy perfume shops) so after getting a quick bite we hopped on the quick bus ride to Monaco.

Monaco is the playground to the ultra, ultra-wealthy so spend a little time looking at the megayachts and fancy cars. From Nice, it’s a quick and cheap 20-minute train ride to Monaco. You can also take the bus but the train is easier, faster, and only a bit more expensive.

Monaco is basically split up into three parts — the Palace Square, the Old Town/Port, and the Monte Carlos Casino. The country is tiny so all the neighborhoods are within walking distance (but there is also a city bus).

• Palace Square:   The palace/Palace Square overlooks the Port and Old Town. The neighborhood also has a nice cliffside garden. The famous Monaco Oceanographic Museum is also in the area.
• Old Town/Port: This is the place to do a little shopping or get something to eat/drink at one of the many sidewalk cafes. Take a look at the yachts.
• Monte Carlos Casino: Blow all your cash for your entire vacation at the Monte Carlos Casino… or win a ton of money and never stop traveling. After 7 pm you probably won’t get into the casino unless your we’ll dressed — i.e. blazer and dress pants for guys. From 2-7pm normal-dressed people can walk around the atrium free-of-charge but it’s a pretty quick visit.

To the east of Monaco is the lovely French seaside town of Menton (which is near the border of Italy). Not many tourists venture to Menton so the town feels much less commercialized than many of the other towns. Spend an hour exploring the pastel buildings of the hilly, medieval Old Town. Have a drink at a quiet sidewalk cafe. The  Jardin botanique exotique du Val Rahmeh is a lovely exotic garden that’s worth a wander. Menton also has a nice sandy beach.

Menton, thanks to its close proximity to Italy, offers quite a few restaurants serving up quality Italian food.

Monton a quick bus or train ride from Monaco and it also has frequent trains to Nice.

Antibes and Cannes

Antibes and Cannes are both located to the west of Nice. It’s a quick 20-minute train to Antibes and a 30-minute train ride to Cannes. There is also a bus but it takes quite a bit longer so the train is recommended.

Antibes has a number of beaches — everything from soft sand to painful pebbles. The beaches can get pretty crowded during the summer. Most of the beaches are public there are a few private beaches if you’re looking for a little more luxe experience.

After you soak in the sun, head to Antibes’ charming Old Town and stroll around the city’s 16th-century ramparts that offer amazing views of the sea. Many people check out the Picasso Museum (€6). Don’t forget to check out Port Vauban — the largest port in the Mediterranian and home to many of the biggest yachts in the world.

If you’re rich and famous then feel free to visit Cannes — otherwise, we suggest skipping it. It’s expensive and there isn’t a huge amount to experience if you don’t have deep pockets.

How To Visit These Seaside Towns

All these cities are located very close to each other and are well-connected via public transportation and tickets are cheap — although it can be a bit tricky since there are multiple bus lines. You can easily visit 1-3 towns in a day.

Via Car/Bus (Corniche Roads)

There are three beautiful scenic “Corniche” cliff-roads that run along the coast from Nice to Monaco/Menton. Bus routes connect the cities (listed below) but they’re less frequent than the train and they take a little longer — but you get beautiful coastal views (if you’re on the righthand side of the bus). That said, the Nice to Monaco bus (which is essentially the longest route) will take about an hour.

Note: All bus tickets cost €1.50 and can be purchased on the bus.  Check the bus schedules since they can change. The Nice Tourism Office should have up-to-date schedules. For example, when were visited, the #82 & #112 bus from Nice to Eze toMonacoo was only running once every two hours.

• The Lower Corniche (Inférieure Corniche) runs along the coast but doesn’t offer great views and is often congested with traffic. It’s served by #81 and #100 bus.
• The Middle Corniche (Moyenne Corniche) has beautiful views of the cliffs/ocean and it’s connected via the #82 and #112 bus.
• The Higher   Corniche (Grande Corniche) is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Europe — which is best explored via car since public transportation isn’t really available.

The train is the easiest/fastest way to get from town to town but you miss out on most of the French Riviera views. For example, the train from Nice to Monaco takes 20 minutes and costs around €4. Also, not all the towns are accessible by train (so you may have to transfer from train to bus for some locations).

More Nice Travel Tips

Trésors Publics is a fun concept store in the Old Town that only sells products made in France. They put a little label on each product to show where in France its made. It’s not exactly budget-friendly but it’s still a fun place to pick up some unique gifts. [ See On Google Maps ]

Head to  La Maison Auer to feed your sweet tooth. This confectionery and chocolate shop has been serving up goodies since 1820. We highly recommend the caramels. And chocolate. And everything else. Located in the Old Town. [ See On Google Maps ]

Take a Free Walking Tour of Nice . The company Beach Riviera Bar Crawl and Tours offers 11:00 am tours every Tuesday till Saturday morning from March 1st to September 30th. Don’t forget that the tour guides work on tips. See their Tripadvisor Reviews .

Meet the locals . Nice is full of friendly locals who are proud of their town and there are a few local volunteers who are happy to show visitors around for two or three hours. Simply request at least a week before arrival and they’ll do their best to pair you up with someone depending on availability. Visit  http://en.nice-greeters.com for more information.

Visit the Nice Tourist Office  for city maps, bus times, and brochures on things to do & see in Nice — plus they have free wifi. The Nice Tourism Website also has a lot of information what’s going on in Nice.

The  Negresco Hotel is Nice’s most high-end hotel and it has a beautiful cocktail bar with authentic walnut woodwork dating back to 1913. The drinks are expensive (€20 for cocktails, ouch) but it’s still a fun way to pretend like you’re living the jet-setter lifestyle for an hour.

The Best Time To Visit  Nice is probably March/Mid-May or September/October as the weather is still nice but the crowds are smaller. The summers can get pretty hot but that’s perfect if you’re spending most of your time at the beach.

For a less-touristy beach experience , we recommend checking out La Réserve or Coco Beach. They’re both a bit outside of town (20-minute walk or a short bus ride). Again, these are rocky beaches so bring proper footwear.

A big breakfast isn’t really a thing in Nice so do like the locals do and head to a boulangerie for croissants, pain aux chocolate, and coffee .

More European Travel Resources

• We’re big fans of Travel Guidebooks and we highly suggest both Rick Steves’ Provance and French Riveria Guidebook & Lonely Planet Provence & the Cote d’Azur . We found that both books had a lot of great information and self-guided walking tours.
• Traveling Europe by train ? Check out our guides to Train Travel In France and Train Travel in Italy .
• Need some packing tips? See our list of the Best Travel Backpacks check out our Europe Packing List .
• Don’t forget to pick up some Travel Insurance .
• Check out our popular  Europe City Price Guides to help estimate your travel costs.

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Explore Nice Côte d’Azur

Explore nice côte d’azur in a thousand and one ways.

Follow different itineraries to discover historical monuments, exceptional museums, and other must-see sites. Visit spectacular places on foot, by bike, or on skis. Immerse yourself in the local culture and learn a unique skill through a variety of workshops and activities. Whether you are looking for thrills in the middle of nature or a cocoon of relaxation and well-being in the heart of the city, treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday in Nice Côte d’Azur.

Our suggested itineraries

Places to visit

Getting around Nice Côte d’Azur

Natural areas

Around Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolitan Area

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• Accommodation

Book your accommodation on-line

Make the most of our booking platform to check availability and compare rates of the different types of accommodation in Nice Côte d’Azur! To help you prepare your stay, we offer a...

Let’s discover all our hotels and select your favorite for your holidays in Nice Côte d’Azur Whether you prefer a boutique hotel, a family hotel, a business hotel, or a palace, the...

Boat trips, parasailing, gourmet tours, hikes in the hinterland or introduction to canyoning…..

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Book your visit or activity

Cruise along the coast and admire Nice Côte d’Azur from the sea Take to the sea and enjoy a unique experience onboard a boat. For a coastal area trip to discover marine...

Nature and sensations

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Nice Côte d’Azur is the ideal destination for outdoor activities! Whether you are a novice or an experienced sportsman, set off on an adventure!A...

Guided tours

Guided walking tours, electric bike tours, Segway tours, bike taxi, minibus or tourist train tours….

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Guided visits with a qualified guide-lecturer

Nice Côte d’Azur has a thousand and one surprises in store… Its monuments, its churches, its gardens, its walking paths, but also its museums, its artists, its traditions, its local crafts, and...

Discovery tours

Book an original excursion and discover the hidden treasures of Nice Côte d’Azur Guided tours and discovery walks are accessible to all. On foot, by bike, perched on the roof of a...

FRENCH RIVIERA PASS

Visit more and spend less!

With the French Riviera Pass, make the most of free access to over 50 sites and attractions for 24, 48 or 72 hours with or without the transport option.

BUY YOUR FRENCH RIVIERA PASS

Make your life easier and save money during your holidays in Nice Côte d’Azur! For a 100% discovery holiday, don’t hesitate to get the French Riviera Pass. This is a unique card...

The French Riviera Pass – 48hrs

We have tested for you the French Riviera Pass, over 48 hours of visits in Nice and its metropolitan area. Indeed, the end of the year celebrations are an opportunity to take...

Our special offers

Choose your “all-inclusive” offer according to the theme, the number of persons and the duration of your stay.

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Our holiday “good deals”

Whatever the season, there is always a good reason to come on holiday to Nice Côte d’Azur. Discover the special offers proposed by our accommodation partners, and book directly on our website.

Special offers Nice-Cannes Marathon

Save the date – 5th November 2023 for a 5* experience 42.195 km, surrounded by palm trees and the blue waves of the Mediterranean sea, the Alpes-Maritimes Nice-Cannes Marathon is back! Prepare...