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The 12 best things to do in Nice: from perfect promenades to divine dining

Apr 29, 2022 • 7 min read

You can't visit Nice without indulging in a leisurely stroll along the stunning Promenade des Anglais © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

Famous for its sunny climes, gorgeous beaches and colorful architecture, the newly Unesco-listed French city of Nice is also packed with art, culture and world-class things to see and do.

From strolling along its legendary Promenade des Anglais and exploring every corner of its picturesque old town to delving into its rich art history or sampling top Niçoise cuisine, here are the best experiences in Nice.

Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais

The vast, palm tree-lined Promenade des Anglais is the most iconic stretch of seafront in Nice. It stretches from the airport in the west to the castle headland in the east – 7km (4.3mi) of uninterrupted views of the Baie des Anges – and gets its name from the English expat patrons who funded it in 1822. “La Prom”, as it is known to locals, has a dedicated lane for cyclists and skaters. If you fancy joining them, you can rent skates, scooters and bikes from Roller Station .

Spot the promenade's iconic landmarks along the way, including the pink-domed Hôtel Negresco (built in 1913), the art-deco Palais de la Méditerranée (1929) and Niçoise sculptor Sabine Géraudie’s iron sculpture La Chaise de SAB (2014), which pays homage to the famous blue chairs dotted along the seafront.

Explore the narrow streets of Vieux Nice

“Nissart” culture is rooted in a long history, much like its gastronomy, halfway between France and Italy. Immerse yourself in it with a leisurely wander through Nice’s old town . It is in this district you can really see the traces of the city’s Italian past.

Lose yourself in the winding, narrow streets and alleyways and don’t forget to look up to appreciate the colorful facades which are so typical of the area. Admire the architectural gems, including Cathédrale Ste-Réparate and 17th-century Palais Lascaris , before making your way to the lively markets and café terraces of the Cours Saleya .

Climb up the Colline du Château for glorious views

For magnificent views over the rooftops of Nice and the azure blue waters of the Baie des Anges, climb the steps (or get the free lift) leading up to the Colline du Château .

This leafy, wooded park on the eastern edge of the old town used to be the site of a medieval castle and military fortifications that were destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706. Archaeological digs have since revealed Celtic and Roman remains. Today, the Tour Bellanda remains, alongside a lovely garden with play areas, an impressive artificial waterfall and sweeping vistas best enjoyed at sunset.

Browse the stalls at Cours Saleya market

Dating back to 1861, the rightly popular Cours Saleya marke t is made up of a beautiful flower market and a much-loved fruit and vegetable market . On Mondays, a flea market takes the place of the food and floral displays. There’s also a night market featuring local crafts that runs from May to September.

Surrounded by colorful buildings and a buzzing business district, the food market overflows with seasonal Mediterranean produce from small local producers. Collect picnic supplies like organic tomatoes, zucchini flowers, spices, olives or lemons that come from the neighboring town of Menton. Saturdays and Sundays are the best days to buy cheese from Alpine producers. There are also plenty of street snacks and pastries you can munch on as you browse the stalls.

Taste Niçoise street food specialties

Tuck into socca (chickpea-flour pancakes), pissaladière (caramelized onion and anchovy tart), tourte de blettes (chard, raisin and pine nut pie) and other delicious Niçoise street snacks at local institution Chez Pipo near Port Lympia, or from the Chez Thérésa cart at the Cours Saleya market in Vieux Nice.

Another emblematic local treat is pan bagnat , a round-shaped sandwich filled with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies, black olives and raw vegetables, and soaked in olive oil. Essentially, a salade niçoise in a bun! Try some of the best in town at Lou Balico in front of the MAMAC museum, Kiosque Chez Tintin next to the Libération market or La Gratta by Port Lympia.

Get a modern art fix at the MAMAC

The Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain ( MAMAC ) exhibits a large collection of works from the influential avant-garde École de Nice. Immerse yourself in the powerful blue works of Yves Klein and the worlds of Niki de Saint Phalle, Ben Vautier and Martial Raysse.

This multilevel museum also houses pop art classics from Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as contemporary art exhibitions, all within an impressive modernist building. Head to the rooftop exhibition space for panoramic views of the city.

Delve into the city’s history at Musée Masséna

Originally built between 1898 and 1901 as a second home for Prince Victor d’Essling, the grandson of one of Napoléon's favorite generals, Maréchal André Massena, this sumptuous belle-époque villa now houses a engrossing museum dedicated to the history of Nice and the Riviera.

Musée Masséna is one of the many architectural gems lining the city’s famous Promenade des Anglais and is well worth a visit to delve into Nice’s origins, the history and impact of tourism on the Riviera and the enduring importance of the Carnaval de Nice, which has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1876.

See some of Matisse's greatest artworks

One of France’s most famous artists, Henri Matisse (1869-1954) lived in Nice for nearly 40 years. See one of the world’s largest collections of his work, including paintings, drawings, sculptures and paper cut-outs, at the Musée Matisse in Cimiez.

The museum is housed in a striking red-ochre Genoese villa surrounded by olive trees, a stone’s throw from the Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez , where Matisse is buried.

People-watch on the Promenade du Paillon

After hitting the stores along Avenue Jean-Médecin and taking in the scenic surrounds of Place Masséna, with its hypnotic tilework, stunning baroque-style fountain and 19th-century red-ochre buildings, enjoy a well-earned break with a spot of people-watching on the Promenade du Paillon .

This 1.2km-long (three-quarters of a mile), beautifully landscaped park spans from Place Masséna to the Théâtre National de Nice, with green spaces, wooden benches, water features and children’s play areas aplenty. 

Go bar-hopping in Vieux Nice

If you have to choose one place in Nice for an evening out, make it the Vieux Nice, with its bountiful selection of bars, pubs and restaurants . Start off at Le Bateleur or Café des Amis on the Cours Saleya for a beer or a glass of wine in good company. Watch the sunset – cocktail in hand – from La Movida’s first-floor balcony overlooking the Mediterranean. If an old-school pint is more your thing, head to Les Distilleries Idéale s, a long-running locals’ favorite.

Round off your evening with dinner at Bar des Oiseaux , Olive et Artichaut , Peixes or Le Comptoir du Marché , featuring the best local produce cooked to perfection.

Discover the leafy Cimiez quarter

Perched on a hill, the leafy district of Cimiez is home to elegant villas, two important art museums devoted to the works of Matisse and Chagall , Roman remains and the Musée Archéologique de Nice .

Originally a Roman bastion, Cimiez has transformed over time into an elegant residential area. In the 1890s, Queen Victoria regularly wintered at Le Régina , a monumental palace later converted into apartments, where Matisse lived in the 1940s. Today, visitors can admire the stunning facade while strolling through the neighborhood.

Go hiking in the Parc du Mont Boron

With 11km (6.8mi) of hiking trails, picnic areas and spectacular views, the Parc du Mont Boron offers an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of Nice. The hilltop forest is spread across 57 hectares (141 acres) of Aleppo pines, olive trees and holm oaks.

History buffs can visit the 16th-century military Fort du Mont Alban at the top of the hill, which affords sweeping panoramic views of Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Cap-Ferrat peninsula and the Esterel mountains.

You may also like: The 12 best beaches in France 14 places to go to enjoy the best of France The 6 best day trips from Marseille by public transport

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Truth of Traveling

January 27, 2019 By Nicki

5 Day Itinerary for Nice, France

The South of France is absolutely beautiful and definitely worth a 6 hour train ride from Paris. The limestone cliffs, beautiful turquoise water and hidden beaches are a must see. Here is our 5 day itinerary for Nice, France in order to really see the most of the area.

There are a lot of different towns in the French Riviera or Cote d’Azur. Some popular locations are Nice , Cannes , Antibes and Saint Tropez . They are all along the coast with Saint Tropez and Antibes being a little more west and Cannes and Nice a little more east going closer to Italy. We chose Nice because we felt it would better suit our travel style than the more upscale Cannes. Nice is also closer to Monaco which we knew we wanted to take a day trip to.

Walk around and explore Old Town Nice

We took the train from Paris to Nice and found it very easy to do. You can read our Public Transportation in Paris post for more information about which train we took and how we booked it.

We took an early morning train and were able to get into Nice in the afternoon. That left us with enough time to walk around and explore a little before sunset. We stayed in the Vieille Ville section of Nice which is known as the Old Town and really enjoyed it! The old architecture is beautiful and definitely worth walking around for a while.

We stayed in an amazing Airbnb and found there was everything we could ever want in walking distance. We even found a place to get an espresso and croissant every morning a few steps from our apartment and by the end the owner knew our order!

You can walk around the small alleys within downtown Nice or walk towards the water. There is a pathway along the beach that you can walk up and down without going too far to try to catch the sunset.

Day Trip to Eze Village

We took the local bus to Eze Village which is a medieval village on top of a hill. It has amazing views of the ocean as well as nearby Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

Eze Village is about 12 km from Nice about three-quarters of the distance from Nice to Monaco. From Nice you can take the local bus to Eze Village and get dropped off right at the steps going up. The bus ride will take about 30 minutes and is by far the most scenic bus ride we have taken! Get a seat by the window and make sure to turn around to look at the view behind you as you drive up the hill.

We would HIGHLY recommend going to Eze Village. It is small but the views from the top are like nothing else!

• Eze Village is the hilltop village and Eze refers to Eze beach. Make sure if you are taking the bus to clarify which one they are going to. If you are dropped off at Eze Beach you will have to hike up the mountain to get to Eze Village.

Check out our full Day Trip to Eze & Mala Beach post for exactly what to see!

Mala Beach and the Coastal Path

About 3 and a half km from Eze Beach is Mala Beach (or Plage Mala) which is a beautiful, small beach tucked away in Cap d’Ail. It is very picturesque and you can easily spend a couple hours enjoying this secluded beach. When we visited we were not the only ones there but easily had enough space to put down towels and relax.

On the far side of Mala Beach (just past the restrooms) is a pathway that leads to the Mala Beach Coastal Path. This coastal path stretches from Plage Mala to Plage Marquet which is just before the Monaco border. The path follows the curve of the coastline throughout Cap d’Ail. It takes about 45 minutes one way or an hour and a half roundtrip.

The Mala Beach Coastal Path is absolutely worth it! Every little curve gives you an unobstructed view of inlets, small beaches and amazing cliffs jutting into the blue waters.

• The pathway is relatively well paved but was significantly easier to do in sneakers. Also don’t forget to bring sunscreen as there is very little shade along the pathway!

Day Trip to Monaco

Nice is about 20 km from Monaco which makes it a very easy day trip. We took the public bus to and from (even though it’s a different country) and we didn’t even need our passports. However, we did go and visit the tourism office upon arriving to have our passports stamped there. Although not necessary we thought it was a cool addition to our other stamps.

You’ve probably heard of Monte Carlo before which is why it is a popular destination within Monaco. There you see the famous Monte Carlo Casino, the Grand Prix raceway as well as rows and rows of extremely extravagant yachts.

Check out our $5 Day Trip to Monaco post to see how we went to Monaco for the day for a total of just $5!

The bus from Nice to Monaco took us about 25 minutes. It dropped us right off outside the Tourism Office which is a few steps from the casino.

Get a drink..with a view!

There are a couple different rooftop bars and terraces in Nice to get a drink and see the view. Obviously not the cheapest activity on this guide but if you’re up for it it’s a nice change of perspective especially on a nice, warm night! We tried the Moon Bar at the Aston La Scala Hotel which was a 5-10 minute walk from our Airbnb in Old Town Nice. We wore khakis and a casual dress and simply walked right in and up to the elevators with no issues. On the roof we were one of maybe four total groups up there which made for a really relaxing feel.

Hike Castle Hill

Castle Hill, or Colline de Chateau, used to be a Chateau that sat on the hilltop but was long ago demolished. However, the hilltop area remains and, curtesy of the Germans, even has an elevator if you can’t hike up! On top you’ll still find a large waterfall and ruins to walk around. You’ll also find the area has been made into a large park with plenty of space to hangout. If you walk inward a little you will find old cemeteries with ruins of the chateau and cathedral that long ago stood on the hill.

The real reason for hiking Castle Hill, in our opinion, is for the view. As the highest point in the city, you get a view of all of Old Town Nice, the beach extending all the way to the Nice Airport. If you were to drive to the airport would be about 10 km away. The hike up has a decent amount of stairs but it is definitely doable if you are in average shape and the view makes it worth it.

Villefranche-sur-Mer & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Villefranche-sur-Mer is the area on the other side of Nice and Mont Boron. It is nicely nestled in with the extending Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is the peninsula that extends out into the ocean in between Nice and Eze. You’ll see it on the bus ride as you drive up to Eze Village, you’ll see it at the top of Eze Village, and you’ll see it in the distance as you hike along the Mala Beach Coastal Path. It really deserves its own day! Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has its own coastal path which we made sure to do and highly recommend.

Read More: Day Trip to Villefranche & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

You can (just like all the other places on this list) take the public bus from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer and it will bring you to the small village. There are some streets of shops and restaurants and some very pretty restaurants along the ocean. Although small, it was nice to walk through for a little while before moving on. You can also take the bus a little further closer to the peninsula to shorten the walk! The bus is super manageable to navigate and its easy to request a stop and get off whenever you want.

Notice how we talked about 2 coastal pathways? Check out our Mala Beach Coastal Path vs. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Coastal Path post to read our comparisons of the two and which we think is worth doing!

Walk through the Cours Saleya Market

The Cours Saleya Market is an open air market in the Cours Saleya in Old Town Nice. It is there everyday with the items changing slightly throughout the day. In the morning you’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables being sold until early afternoon. As well you’ll see flower stands all day and a special antique area on Mondays. Regardless of the items it was really interesting to walk through and see all the stands. There were plenty of food stands available too. There we got the opportunity to try the local food called Socca which is like a chickpea pancake. We also found quite a few artists selling paintings and drawings of the nearby landscapes.

Go to the beach one last time!

We have previously mentioned a lot of other places that include gorgeous beaches. Eze Beach, Mala Beach, small beaches along Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat are all gorgeous, tucked away and uncrowded beaches. But there are beaches right in Nice that are worth a shot before leaving! We found it was much more crowded than the other beaches we went to a little outside of Nice but a couple blocks from our apartment (and free) made it worth it.

• There are plenty of beach clubs in Nice as the free part of the beach is very rocky. If you prefer a chair or other services (and plan to be there for longer) there are quite a few options to choose from. We chose to just lay on the rocks as we only had a short amount of time before packing up!

Interested in more posts about France?  Read here !

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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.

French Riviera Famous Cities Scoot Coupe Tour from Nice

from $ 81.49

Provence Organic Wine Tasting Half Day Tour from Nice

(90 reviews)

from $ 65.19

Mediterranean Coastal Sightseeing Cruise from Nice

(566 reviews)

from $ 28.98

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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The Unknown Enthusiast

29 Incredible Things to Do in Nice (By a France Expert)

Looking for the best things to do in Nice in 2024? I’ve got the most detailed, comprehensive recommendations for you!

Welcome to Nice, the jewel of the French Riviera where the relaxed Mediterranean vibe effortlessly blends with impressive architecture, palm-lined streets, and expansive sea views.

This beautiful, bucket list city in France has one of the best old towns I’ve ever visited, full of hidden squares, colorful hues, tiny streets, and cafes and restaurants everywhere. The beaches stretch on forever in Nice – kilometer after kilometer of wide open beaches for lounging or sea bathing.

Plus, Nice makes for the perfect home base for exploring the French Riviera – as the trains quickly and easily take you up and down the coast.

I’ve explored Nice on three separate occasions, spending more than two weeks soaking in its unique atmosphere. And while I’ve crisscrossed the French Riviera and explored many regions of France, Nice holds a special place as one of my favorite spots in the whole country.

The city’s laidback ambiance offers a refreshing departure from the bustle of many big cities – the vibes are intoxicating! In this post, I’m sharing the best things to do in Nice, based on my personal experience in the city.

I hope you love it too!

Travel Resources to Quickly Plan Your Trip

Top Excursions and Activities in Nice:

• Provencal Specialties Food Tour (sample 20+ local foods, olive oil, and wine)
• Tour de France Wine Tasting Experience (sample 5+ wines with a guide)
• Towns of the French Riviera Day Trip (very small group, visit 5+ cities)
• Private 1 Hour Mediterranean Boat Cruise (can expand to more than 1 hour)

Top Hotel Options in Nice

• Hotel Albert Premier (centrally located, budget option)
• Palais Saleya Boutique Hotel (lovely and right in Old Town)
• Westminster Hotel and Spa Nice (beautiful hotel, right on Mediterranean)

29 Amazing Things to Do in Nice, France

I’m here to help you find the best things to see and do in Nice, including unique experiences, top points of interest, best museums, gardens, churches, and more! This post is really a deep dive into the city, showcasing the varied experiences that await you in Nice.

Top Experiences to Have in Nice

1. provencal food tour of nice.

Food tours have long been one of my favorite types of experiences to have in a city, and this food tour featuring Provencal specialties was no exception. I did this tour on my most recent trip to Nice, and even though I’ve visited Provence multiple times, I was still exposed to many new foods.

We walked around the market and sampled different produce, olives, and prepared goods. We visited a historic candy shop and tried various candied fruits and nuts – traditional for Christmas time.

We stopped by a cheese stand and enjoyed the most delicious charcuterie board, complete with fresh tomatoes and grapes from the market.

We ate unique Nicoise cuisine like tarte de blettes (a pastry made with swiss chard), socca (a chickpea crepe), and petit farcis nicoise (stuffed vegetables). We sampled Provencal olive oil and balsamic vinegar, sipped local white wine and rosé, and tried many other little foods and treats beyond what I can mention here.

And all this was done with the most delightful guide and in a small group setting, learning about Nice’s history and culture as you eat your way through the city.

It’s seriously a must-do when in Nice.

Check availability and rates for this Nice Foodie Tour here

Are you planning a trip to France but want some help with the planning process ? I offer itinerary planning for travel all throughout France ! Don’t need a full itinerary but would like some feedback on your plans and questions answered? I also do 1-hour consult calls! Use the contact form below to hear from me in 48-72 hours about how we can create the ultimate France itinerary to suit your travel style and preferences .

2. Enjoy a Wine Tasting

Of course, maybe you’re more interested in French wine than Provencal cuisine, or you just to spend an afternoon sipping some of the best wines in the world (there are over 27,000 wineries scattered all around France , producing over 200 wine varieties!)

If that’s the case, then this French wine tasting is for you! In the back of a wine shop right in Old Town, an expert sommelier guides you through the process of smelling, tasting, and savoring 5 different selections of wine (including red, white, and rosé).

In addition, your sommelier will explain the region the wines come from, notable features, and the production process to grow the grapes and create the wine.

This experience lasts 2 hours, so it’s easy to add to your Nice itinerary.

Check rates and availability for this wine tasting here

3. Private Mediterranean Cruise along the Coast

There’s nothing like being out on the azure blue, glistening water of the Mediterranean, and the coastline of the Riviera is gorgeous – filled with rocky coves and inlets to explore, and beautiful villas to admire as you dangle your feet in the sea.

You have a couple of options for private boat tours from Nice:

One Hour Private Tour : This option is a  one-hour, private cruise  in a solar-powered boat. You’ll sail along the coast of France, passing by several quaint villages and expansive villas. Half Day Private Boat Tour : Alternatively, there’s an option for a  half-day boat excursion, for just your own party.  From Nice you’ll sail towards Cannes or Monaco, with time to jump off the back of the boat and swim or snorkel in the Mediterranean waters.

4. French Mediterranean Cooking Class

While going to local restaurants are fun and delicious, we’ve really, really loved doing cooking classes while we travel. They offer such a unique insight into the regional culture, and you learn some new skills, plus you get to chat with a local, which is so interesting!

This cooking class  in the countryside of Nice is perfect for enjoying a provincial afternoon. Surrounded by olive trees, you’ll pick produce and herbs from the garden as you create a delicious French Mediterranean meal.

Your host, Marie, will guide you through the process of preparing the French dishes, and then you’ll all share the meal together out on her terrace, overlooking the countryside.

Check availability for  this French provincial cooking class

5. Take a Walking Tour of Nice

While I love wandering a city by myself, doing a walking tour with a knowledgeable local is undoubtedly a great way to really learn about the city, its history, and all those interesting hidden gems and tidbits that only a local can tell you about.

This  guided walking tour of Old Nice  is a fantastic option – the tour guide is energetic, engaging, knowledgeable, and really brings the Old City to life with stories and anecdotes (They don’t have over 800 5-star reviews for nothing!)This city tour in Nice will definitely be 2 hours well spent.

Check rates and availability for  this walking tour here

Top Attractions in Nice

6. stroll the promenade des anglais.

The Promenade des Anglais is one of the most iconic spots in Nice – this extensive promenade stretches for miles along the coastline and is lined by palm trees and beautiful buildings.

The promenade is very wide, with plenty of space to stroll, sit, relax, and indulge in the greatest of all pastimes: people-watching. There’s also a dedicated bike path that is used by many bikers.

You can access all the beaches directly from stairs leading down from the promenade – making the area a central hub for seaside enjoyment.

For a more fast-paced experience, hop on a city bike, easily accessible through the Velo Bleu app. Download the app in advance, input your personal details, and then all you need to do is scan the QR code at one of the many bike stations around the city.

Stephanie’s Pro Tip: Go for a leisurely walk or run during the daytime to soak in the sun and stunning sea views, and then come back at night to enjoy the magical hues of a sunset stroll. We usually come to the Promenade multiple times during our visits to Nice!

As you stroll, watch for the iconic Hotel Le Negresco, located right off the Promenade. This historic hotel is almost like a palace, designed with opulent luxury in mind.

Make sure you walk right to the eastern edge of the Promenade, right under Castle Hill. Here, you’ll get an incredible view back over the Promenade, the sea, and the city, and you can snap a picture with the I Love Nice sign.

Walking the promenade is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Nice – there’s just such a great vibe and the views can’t be beat.

7. Castle Hill

Castle Hill is a tall hill that looms over Old Town, on the far eastern edge of the Promenade des Anglais. While the castle itself is long gone, the hill still offers several interesting things to do.

To start, there are incredible, sweeping views over the Promenade des Anglais on one side and the Port on the other. There’s a waterfall in the middle of the hill, as well as archeological ruins, a children’s playground, walking trails, and a large Christian and Jewish cemetery at the back of the hill.

There are several access points to Castle Hill, but I’d recommend going up the stairs that are right by the Hotel Suisse, just off the Promenade. Explore the hill as much as you want, and then descend on the opposite side of the hill to the port (more on that next).

This map illustrates these two paths:

8. Port Lympia

The Port of Nice, also known as Port Lympia is one of the most important harbors on the French Mediterranean. I love a leisurely stroll through the port – it’s a charming combination of speedboats, fishing boats, sailboats, and larger yachts against the painted background of the colorful buildings surrounding the port.

When you finish exploring the port, swing back west via the Promenade and see an impressive war memorial carved into the hill cliff. The Monuments aux Morts (or the Monument of the Dead) is dedicated to the fallen of World War I.

9. Place Massena

Place Massena is a central square between the Jardin Albert I and Old Town. It boasts gorgeous neoclassical architecture and the prominent Fontaine du Soleil, which features a statue of Apollo.

Red and ochre buildings surround the expansive square, and the ground is adorned with a distinctive black and white checkerboard pattern. It’s a unique and absolutely stunning square!

10. Relax in the Jardin Albert I and the Promenade du Paillon

Nice has a long street of gardens that runs north from the Promenade des Anglais and separates Old Town from the Carré d’Or neighborhood of New Town.

This area has a little bit of everything and is an absolutely delightful greenspace in Nice.

The Jardin Albert I sits between the sea and Place Massena and has walking paths, manicured lawns, flowers and plants, and several large sculptures.

Just north of Place Massena is the Promenade du Paillon. This part of the park is long and skinny, and has a lot of fun features. Don’t miss the Fontaine Miroir d’Eau – a shallow reflecting “pool” with a grid of fountains that are turned on and off throughout the day. Essentially an elevated splashpad, this area is open for visitors to walk and splash through.

We also love the imaginative playground with play structures shaped like sea creatures, and the various sculptures throughout the garden. There is also a wide variety of plants, from flowers to palm trees, both local and exotic, and lots of benches to sit down and relax, or enjoy a picnic lunch.

11. Hit the Beach

Spending time at the beach is a top activity in Nice no matter when you visit, and Nice has some of the best beaches on the French Riviera.

Of course, the water feels great in the hot summer months, but even in cooler weather, there are always still people enjoying the sunset or evening waves, sharing drinks, or having a picnic.

There are miles and miles of beaches to choose from along the coastline, with private beach clubs interspersed with public beach areas. Anyone can rent a sun lounger + umbrella or eat at one of the beachside restaurants at the beach clubs along the shore.

Stephanie’s Pro Tip: Except for one tiny section, the beaches in Nice are rocky – which means that if you want to lay out, a good thick towel is very helpful, and you DEFINITELY need some sturdy sandals or water shoes, even for wading. Those rocks do not feel good on your bare feet, trust me!

12. Explore Old Town

Old Town is the soul of Nice – one of the most historic parts of the city, a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that invite exploration. I love Nice’s old town so, so much. I’ve explored so many old towns in France and Europe in general, and Nice’s is just top-notch – so cute and charming, and actually pretty large.

As you wander, you’ll stumble onto numerous beautiful squares and historic churches. The buildings, painted in golden, orange, pink, and red hues create picture-perfect moments around every corner.

Old Town is also home to many top-rated restaurants and cute boutiques or specialty shops, with small wicker tables spilling out onto the streets, and enticing smells layering in every alley.

Place Rossetti is my personal favorite of the many charming squares in Old Town – I love the fountain, the little cafes, the regal cathedral (more on this below), and the plethora of delicious gelato stands.

Stephanie’s Pro Tip: Fenocchio has dozens of flavors and is a popular gelato shop at Place Rossetti, (and I do like their gelato), but you can’t miss the creme brulée gelato at Azzurro, just a few steps from the cathedral.

13. The Marché Aux Fleurs Flower and Produce Market

This charming flower market was first established to sell flowers to perfume makers in the region, but today has blossomed into a sprawling, bustling market selling all kinds of delectable food products.

The Marché aux Fleurs is located on the Cours Saleya, near the sea in the Old Town, and in addition to flowers, offers fruit, vegetables, and lots of local food specialties.

Think rows of olives, candied flowers, cheese and dried meats, local honey and jam, nougats and candies, and even some hot Provencal dishes prepared for immediate consumption.

The market is popular with locals and tourists alike and is a great place to pick up some local specialties to bring home with you.

The market is open every morning except for Mondays. On Mondays, the Cours Saleya hosts an antique market, filled with all sorts of fascinating antiques, old dishes and china, jewelry, art, and cute little French trinkets. The last time I was in Nice, I was absolutely enamored with all the old tea sets!

Discover More of the French Riviera

Besides being an engaging city on its own, there are a ton of incredible options for day trips from Nice to unbelievably adorable coastal towns and hill villages nearby. The tiny country of Monaco is also just a short train ride away, and there are also many vineyards where you can go on a wine tour.

You definitely need to take advantage of everything the French Riviera has to offer and go on a day trip or two (or seven!) from Nice.

Here are a few excellent day trip options:

14. Day Trip to Monaco

If you’re interested in all glitz and glam, consider this small group tour to Monaco . You’ll get transportation, plus an in-depth guided tour of some of the most interesting spots in the city, with a lot of behind the scenes information and local tidbits.

Check rates and availability for this day trip here

15. Whirlwind Tour of the French Riviera

This full day, action-packed, quick hit best of the Riviera tour introduces you to 6 different bucket list cities and villages on the French Riviera.

Enjoy visiting spots in France like Antibes , Cannes , Saint-Paul-de-Vence , Eze , La Turbie and Monaco . You’ll have about an hour in most of these spots (with a longer stop to see more sites in Monaco), plus a few stops between the cities for a photo-op at great views.

Of course, hitting 7 cities in one day means that each stop is more of an overview than a long, lingering exploration of each city, but it’s perfect for anyone who wants to see and experience the variety that southern France has to offer.

I’ve visited all of these spots, and they are all different, yet all so charming in their own way.

Check prices and availability for this day trip here

16. Riviera Villages + Monaco

Another fantastic option is a combination of small villages and glitzy Monaco. In this day trip, you’ll first visit the village of Eze , a charming hilltop village that overlooks the sea (and is one of my top favorite villages). Then you’ll head to La Turbie, a hidden gem hilltop village known for the insane view over Monaco. Finally, you’ll head down into Monaco , visiting the Prince’s Palace, several sites around Old Town, and ending with a visit to the Monte Carlo Casino .

17. Wine Tour to French Countryside Vineyards

During this idyllic wine tour , you’ll explore 3 different vineyards in the vicinity of Nice. Enjoy a behind the scenes look at the intricate process of wine-making, as you tour the vineyards and the wine cellars. Following the tour, you’ll be treated to a wine-tasting session guided by a seasoned sommelier.

You’ll get a long stop for lunch in a nearby quaint village in the middle of the day before continuing on your wine tour. The rural landscapes and vineyards are truly captivating, with spectacular views.

Check availability for this wine tour here

Museums to Visit

Good to Know : If you plan to visit a couple of the museums in Nice, it’s worth purchasing the Nice Museum Pass. this pass costs 15 euro, is valid for four days, and gets you into *most* of the museums and galleries in Nice.

18. Musée Matisse 

Henri Matisse was a painter and sculptor who was an influential part of the modern art movement. Matisse spent many of his later years working in Nice, and ended up dying in the city.

The Matisse Museum in Nice houses one of the world’s largest collections of Matisse’s works of art. Matisse experimented with many different styles and mediums, and there is a large variety of paintings, sketches, sculptures, and stained glass on display.

I also liked the look into Matisse’s life and the personal touches included in the museum – including a large display map showing Matisse’s travels throughout his life, and Matisse’s actual art cabinet, filled with tubes of paint and various tools.

• Hours : 10am-5pm or 6pm (depending on the season), closed Tuesdays
• Price : 12 euro

19. Chagall Museum

Marc Chagall was a Jewish man from Belarus, who ended up spending most of his adult life in France. He generally painted in the modern style, and was a master at using vivid, evocative colors in his works. He lived for a long period at the end of his life in the town of Vence, not far from nice, and is buried in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

The Chagall Museum in Nice is dedicated to the Biblical series done by the painter. Almost all of the paintings depict Biblical scenes, and are large scale and really beautiful. There are also other mediums displayed – such as stained glass, a painted harpsichord, and a mural on an exterior wall.

I personally really enjoyed this museum and the works of art displayed here – they felt very peaceful and soothing.

• Cost : 8 euro (and this museum is not included in the Nice Museum Pass)

20. Villa Massena Museum

The Villa Massena is my favorite type of museum – where the building itself is grand and beautiful, and an exhibit in its own right.

André Masséna was born in Nice and became a high-ranking military officer during the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. In fact, he was one of Napoleon’s most trusted commanders throughout his reign.

Villa Massena was purchased by his grandson, and dedicated to the city in remembrance of the famous French commander. The park around the manor is free and open to the public.

The main level is full of opulent and luxurious historical grand rooms. You can walk through the dining room, library, entry hall, as well as a few sitting rooms. Marble columns, chandeliers, large paintings, mosaic floors, carved friezes, decorative accents, and sculptures adorn the rooms

Upstairs is more like a true museum, with several rooms about the nobility of Nice, as well as exhibits about Napoleon and Josephine, including their clothing, death masks, paintings, and some personal items.

There are also some exhibits and a lot of pictures of what Nice used to look like and how it used to function in the 1700-1800’s, which I found fascinating.

The informational signs are only in French, so unless you can read French, this is a good place for Google Translate. 

21. Archeological Museum of Nice Cimiez

The Archeological Museum has inside exhibits with objects, statues, and columns recovered from the Roman occupation of Cimiez.

Outside, you can walk through the Roman thermal baths that filled this area.

To be frank, this museum was only so-so for me. I personally wasn’t overly interested in the items displayed inside, and for the most part, the thermal baths outside are in a pretty advanced state of ruin. The picture above is definitely the coolest part of the archeological site.

However, if you’re someone who thinks about the Roman Empire on a regular basis, you probably would be more interested in this museum. And if you’re already up in Cimiez and already have the Nice Museum Pass, then it might be worth some time to pop in and take a look. I want to mention it so you know it’s an option, but I wouldn’t call this a must-do in Nice.

22 . Discover Roman Ruins in the Cimiez Neighborhood

Cimiez is a beautiful, upscale, and ancient historical neighborhood in the north part of Nice. During Roman times, this area was called Cemenelum and had a number of classic Roman structures.

Today, you can visit the Arènes de Cimiez ,  the ruins of an old Roman amphitheater, and walk through the adjacent gardens, a wild park filled with olive trees and old French men playing petanque .

Churches to Visit

Like most of Europe, Nice has no shortage of gorgeous, interesting churches to visit. Even if you’re not religious, I think it’s still worth stopping into some of these churches and cathedrals to admire the beautiful architecture and soaring spaces.

23. Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate

Cathedrale Sainte Reparate is located in Nice’s Old Town, in Place Rossetti. The exterior is lovely, with a detached bell tower that gets perfectly framed between the streets leading into the square.

Inside, however, will definitely take your breath away. Intricate gold leafing, marble columns and flooring, elaborate friezes, and a tall domed ceiling make this a truly stunning cathedral.

24. Eglise Saint Jacques Le Majeur

Eglise Saint Jacques le Majeur is definitely a hidden gem in Nice . Tucked away on a small side street in Old Town, this church is smaller than the Cathedral Sainte Reparate, but if anything, it’s even more ornate.

Much of the ceiling is painted blue, and intricate sculptures adorn the arches and columns – it’s absolutely lovely.

25. Notre Dame de l’Assomption Church

Notre Dame de l’Assomption of Nice resembles the famous Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, just at a much smaller scale. While smaller, it is still an impressive and intricate basilica.

It has many of the hallmarks of Gothic architecture, with two towers on the front, beautiful, grandiose stained glass windows, and soaring, pointed arches inside.

• Hours : 9am-12pm, 4-7pm daily

26. Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Also known as the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice, this cathedral is an unexpected glimpse of Russia in the heart of Nice. It was built for the sizeable Russian community that had settled in Nice by the beginning of the 20th century (the church was completed in 1912).

The outside has the striking onion domes associated with the Russian Orthodox churches, and the inside is ornately decorated with colors, gold leafing, and paintings on the walls and ceilings.

27. Monastery of Cimiez

The Monastery of Cimiez is located just adjacent to the Arenes de Cimiez and the gardens of the Arenes de Cimiez and is a lovely, quiet church in the northern neighborhood of Nice.

The monastery ceilings are covered in colorful paintings of religious scenes and there’s a tiny museum in the cloisters just next to the church entrance.

Definitely don’t miss the beautiful Monastery gardens, which are lovely and peaceful. In the very back of the gardens, you can get a fantastic view out over Nice!

28 . Sample Nicoise Cuisine

Nicoise cuisine reflects the city’s coastal culture, as well as the historical influence of trading routes, which introduced many foreign ingredients that are now a staple in Nice’s food culture.

A few dishes you absolutely must try in Nice include:

• Salade Nicoise, a refreshing green salad featuring tuna, olives, and anchovies
• Socca, a thin savory chickpea pancake, often eaten as street food
• Pissaladiere, a pizza-like dish with anchovy paste, onions, and olives
• Pan Bagnat, a sandwich brimming with tuna, vegetables, and a hint of garlic

Beyond these iconic dishes, Nice’s culinary scene heavily involves fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and locally sourced produce, creating a wide variety of delicious foods to try .

Get aaaalll the details about the foods you need to try and the best restaurants in the city in my guide to what to eat in Nice .

Or, book your spot on my favorite food tour to sample a huge selection of high-quality regional specialties.

29. Swing by Villefranche & Cap Ferrat

Just outside of Nice is the village of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the peninsula of Cap Ferrat. Villefranche is truly one of the most delightful villages on the Riviera, full of pastel-colored buildings and a quaint waterside walkway. It also has one of the few sandy beaches in the region.

Just next to Villefranche is Cap Ferrat, a peninsula full of gorgeous villas, rocky coves, a teeny tiny village, and a long, coastal walkway.

The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, located on Cap Saint Jean Ferrat, is open to visitors, and offers a beautiful, pink villa with beautiful interior decor and architecture, and 9 different themed gardens.

Finally, walking the sentier du littoral (coastal walkway) that lines the perimeter of the peninsula is an excellent way to spend an afternoon – it’s about 6 miles/10km to do the whole walkway, and the views are gorgeous!

I would consider all of these places hidden gems near Nice.

Map of Nice Attractions

Where Should You Stay When Visiting Nice?

Choosing where to stay in Nice can influence what type of trip you have in the city, depending on whether you want to be oceanside, right in Old Town, farther away off the tourist track, or if you want to stay at a hotel with a pool in Nice .

Both of these guides (linked in the paragraph above) highlight the best areas and hotels in Nice for all types of travelers.

How Long Should You Spend in Nice?

I think that two full days is a perfect amount of time to hit up all the fun things to do in Nice, although you can see many of the top sites with just one day in Nice. I would plan for another 1-3 more days for day trips to nearby cities and villages! Check out my suggested 3-day in Nice itinerary !

Nice is great any time of year, but each season has its different pros and cons. Read more about the best time to visit the French Riviera .

What to Do In Nice – The Wrap Up

Is Nice worth visiting? My answer is a resounding HECK YES. After traveling extensively through France, Nice and the French Riviera remains one of my favorite places in the country.

Whether you visit for the beaches, the architecture, the food, the laid-back vibe, or the access to other points in Provence, you will not be disappointed with all that Nice has to offer.

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Stephanie is the author of The Unknown Enthusiast. She's visited 21 countries and 37 of the 50 US states (but her first love will always be France). When she's not traveling, she enjoys reading, taking naps, playing games, eating popcorn, and spending time with her husband (Matthew) and 4 daughters. Stephanie lives in Alabama, USA.

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Best Things to Do in Nice, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit Nice, French Riviera

Nice is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in France and I am sure you will love it. It is located on the French Riviera in Southern France, bathed by the Mediterranean Sea.

There’s no bad time to visit Nice, and you will enjoy the city all year round. Summer in Nice is beach time, ice cream, and apéritifs in rooftop bars, while winter in Nice comes with mild temperatures, the famous Carnival of Nice, and quirky festivals in the neighboring towns.

Nice is one of the  2024 Summer Olympics cities , so it’s the perfect excuse to discover or re-discover the city. If you are wondering what to do in Nice, go on reading. This article lists the best things to do in Nice, France, and our best tips for your sightseeing in Nice.

Are you planning your Nice trip last minute?

Below are some of the best Nice tours, hotels, and more!

• Book your flight tickets to Nice Airport (NCE) ; Book your train tickets to Nice .
• Book your transfer from Nice Airport to the city with Welcome Pickups .

Looking to travel around Nice independently? Click here for the best rental car rates in Nice .

Top Experiences and Tours in Nice:

• Old Treasures of Nice Walking Tour
• E-bike City Highlights Tour
• Nice Food Tour

Top Places to Stay in Nice:

• Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges (it has the best view of Nice)
• Hotel Négresco  (the most iconic, at the Promenade des Anglais) 
• Hotel de France (a cute mid-range close to the beach) 
• Best hotels in Nice with a pool (for the hottest months in Nice!)

Don’t leave for Nice without travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

What to Do in Nice, France

There are many things to do in Nice to keep you busy for a while. Nice is also a great base for exploring more of the French Riviera on day trips. Because of its international airport, Nice is also a good starting point for a fun French Riviera road trip .

From glamourous beaches to traditional markets, this Nice things-to-do list has something for every traveler. Stay two days in Nice to visit the main sites and enjoy the beach, and more days if you plan to visit other places nearby on day trips.

1. Enjoy the Views from La Colline du Château

La Colline du Château (Castle Hill) is a rocky hill located on the Eastern side of Promenade des Anglais, overlooking Old Nice and the Port. This hill is one of the best things to see in Nice, and it offers incredible views of Nice, the  Baie des Anges , and the Alps in the distance.

In the 11th century, a citadel occupied this hill, but King Louis XIV’s soldiers entirely dismantled it in the 18th century. Today, it is a beautiful park great for a stroll and one of the best places to visit in Nice for its impressive views.

The access to La Colline du Chateau is through the stairs. There’s also a free elevator located at the end of the Promenade des Anglais. Don’t miss the archaeological remains and its surprising waterfall!

2. Visit the Old Port

The Old Port , located in Old Nice, is another of the best places to see in Nice and a wonderful place for a stroll. Nice’s Old Port is a colorful and busy place, with about ten quays and various markets selling local products.

Built in the 18th century, this port is one of the French Riviera’s main infrastructural hubs. It accommodates both the ships operated by ferry companies and private yachts for tourists.

3. Get Lost in Nice’s Old Town

Exploring the Old Town is one of the top things to do in Nice, France. Vieux Nice is the city’s historic district, an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas.

In Vieux Nice, you will also find cultural venues, beautiful Baroque churches, and many shopping opportunities and restaurants.

The list of beautiful places to visit in Nice’s Old Town includes the Cathedral Sainte Reparate on Place Rossetti, the notable museums of Lascaris Palace and Galleries des Pochettes , and the Opera of Nice.

On Place Rossetti, you will also find Fenocchio – one of the best ice creams in Nice. However, its popularity (and long lines) is pushing locals to other great alternatives, like Azzurro in Rue Sainte Reparate.

4. Visit Cours Saleya’s Markets

Located in the historic district, Cours Saleya is the largest pedestrian area in Vieux Nice and one of the few places that still keeps its local and traditional charm. The place is great for a stroll, and it is well known for its colorful flower stalls (my favorite part), but there are also stalls selling antiques and local food.

This market opens from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 am to 12.30 approx, and is a must-see in Nice, France. Here, you can also get the best socca in town (a local staple similar to Italian farinata) at Chez Theresa, a colorful (and always busy) stand. The socca is made in their bakery at 28 Rue Droite in Old Nice, and a boy brings it to the stand in Cours Saleya on a black bike.

5. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais

A stroll along the Promenade des Anglais is one of the best things to do in Nice. This seaside promenade is Nice’s main landmark, famous beyond the French borders.

The name of this promenade honors the English aristocracy, who, in the 19th century, acquired a taste for vacationing in Nice in winter to escape England’s coldest months and had the idea of building this 7-kilometer avenue by the sea.

Along the Promenade des Anglais, you will find Nice’s beaches with their legendary blue lounge chairs, the Museum of Asian Arts , the Palais de la Méditerranée, and the equally iconic Hotel Négresco .

The Promenade des Anglais is also used to host popular city events like the Prom Classic or the Carnival of Nice .

6. Lazy Day at the Beach

If you are wondering what to do in Nice, France, for a relaxing day, consider one of the beaches in Nice . The city’s seafront is bordered by pebbled beaches, public and private, and they are a great place for a lazy day sunbathing and a couple of dips.

To avoid contact with the stones, the beaches are fitted with lounge chairs, and it is highly recommended to use special shoes to walk on the beach or take a bath.

The public beaches offer limited facilities, while the private beaches have luxurious amenities (changing cabins, towels) and bars and restaurants with seaside service. Some of these private beaches, like Blue Beach and Beau Rivage , are amongst the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera .

7. Take a Boat Tour from Nice

Explore Nice and the French Riviera from another perspective, from the water!

Do you need to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing? Then, book this sunset boat tour that departs from Nice and explores Villefranche-sur-Mer and the preserved nature of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat under a beautiful orange light. During the boat tour, you will be able to snorkel and taste delicious Nice specialties in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere – Click here to book this sunset boat tour from Nice

If you prefer to sail during the day, this guided boat tour explores the French Riviera’s coastline from Nice to Monaco. Admire Villefranche-sur-Mer, Monaco, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Eze, and Cap d’Ail from the water, with some stops for swimming or snorkeling – Click here to book this morning boat tour from Nice

8. Or Rent a Boat in Nice

Why follow other tourists if you can craft your own boat tour with your family or friends? Rent a boat in Nice , with or without a skipper, and plan a day out admiring the city from the water or visiting places like Cap Ferrat and Cap d’Ail. With its azure waters, colorful towns, and natural wonders, the French Riviera is the ideal destination for sailing.

The boating season in the French Riviera runs from April to October. Given that Nice is a very popular holiday destination, there are plenty of boats available to rent. Keep in mind, however, that during the high season in the summer, there are many tourists in the city, so I recommend booking well in advance to find the perfect boat for you. And if you don’t have a boat permit, don’t hesitate to ask for the services of a professional skipper – Click here to rent a boat in Nice

9. Visit the Museums of Cimiez Hill

If you are looking for a cultural day in Nice, what to do? I suggest visiting Cimiez Hill , a calm neighborhood on the hills of Nice with a serene atmosphere far from the Old Town’s hustle and bustle.

Located 2km north of Vieux Nice, Cimiez is a beautiful place for a stroll. It also has some Nice tourist attractions, like the Cimiez Monastery , Nice’s Archaeological Site and Archaeological Museum , the Chagall Museum , and the Matisse Museum . The historical monuments of Valrose Castle and Regina Palace are also located in Cimiez.

Cimiez also hosts popular city events like the Gourd Festival or the Nice Jazz Festival .

10. Take a Food Tour

A food tour is a great way to learn about food in Nice and taste some specialties. During my last trip to Nice, I took this top-rated Nice food tour that explores the market of Cours Saleya and some gourmet shops (olive oil, truffles, candied fruits,…), with tastings along the way.

Lara, our guide, was great. She told us a lot of things about Nice’s food and culture in general and adapted her explanations to our interests. The tour ended with a picnic on Castle Hill, where we tasted some musts of Nice, like pissaladière, pan bagnat, socca, cheese, and cold cuts washed down with local wines – Click here to book this food tour in Nice

Adrenaline-Packed Things to Do in Nice, France

This list of fun and adrenaline-packed activities in Nice is ideal for those who want to see Nice from another point of view.

11. Explore the Underwater World in Nice

Discover the superb seabed of the French Riviera from Nice! Explore appreciated diving sites of the Mediterranean Sea, such as the Grande Baie or the Coral Cave .

If this is your first time, join this diving school in the port of Nice for an unforgettable first dive. You will leave by boat from the port of Nice for a half-day group session and take turns diving. Being in the company of other trainee divers, you will have time before or after your first dive to snorkel or simply enjoy the sun on board the boat.

The second part of the dive is dedicated to the underwater walk and the exploration of the surrounding sea bed – Click here to book your first dive from Nice

If you want to get your SSI Open Water Diver certification to become an autonomous diver and be able to dive down to 20 meters deep, then book this Scuba Diving SSI Course , which includes theoretical lessons and 8 dives in a protected environment.

12. Fly Over the Baie des Anges

Discover the Angels Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful views, from the air!

Embark on a parasailing flight to take height and admire the beautiful city and its famous Bay as you have never seen it before. You will fly in front of the Old Nice and will be able to admire from above the bays of Villefranche and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a magic moment to live alone, in a duo, or in a trio!

The tour of the Bay of the Angels takes off from the Beau Rivage beach and is about 2 km long. It takes around 10 minutes, enough to fill up with sensations! – Click here to book a parasailing flight

Things to Do in Nice for Long Stays

If you decide to stay in Nice for more than two days, consider taking a day trip or a guided tour to explore other beautiful places in the French Riviera .

13. Take a Day Trip from Nice

Nice is an excellent base for exploring other beautiful places on the French Riviera on day trips. The list of beautiful day trips from Nice includes Villefranche-sur-Mer – a picturesque Old Town and beach with pebbles on the small side –, Éze-Village , Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat , Menton , or Monaco .

Discover the Côte d’Azur on this guided driving tour of the French Riviera . Visit the village of Èze, and explore Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Antibes.

Further on the west, Cannes and Antibes are two beautiful cities on the French Riviera worth exploring, and they are easy to reach by regional train.

If you prefer to explore inland, this Provence Countryside guided tour visits lovely towns like Grasse , Gourdon, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence and has excellent reviews.

14. Take a Wine Tour

The Côtes de Provence Appellation is very extensive. You will, of course, discover in this appellation producers of rosé wine (90% of the wine production) but also of fruity and quite full-bodied red wines and aromatic and fruity whites.

If you have a car, I recommend exploring the vineyards of Bellet AOC , planted on the steep slopes of the hills around Nice. Bellet has excellent red wines (assemblies from Braquet, Folle Noire, Cinsault, and Grenache Noir grape varieties) and white wines (assemblies from Vermentino, Chardonnay, Clairette, Blanqueiron, and Bourboulenc grape varieties). The Bellet AOC wine production is not big (around 50 Ha only) so it is rare to find these wines out of Nice. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste and buy these great wines!

In Bellet, Château de Bellet and Domaine de la Source offer different visits with tastings in French and English. Book in advance!  

If you don’t have a car, this full-day Côtes de Provence wine tour from Nice visits three award-winning wineries in the Provence Wine Region, where you can taste a variety of fine wines.

And there you have it: what to see in Nice, things to do, and top tips for a wonderful stay in the capital of the French Riviera. So, what are you waiting for?! Book your trip to Nice today!

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Nice (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Nice (France)

Nice’s unofficial anthem is Nissa La Bella, and you can’t help but agree with this sentiment when you visit the French Riviera’s largest city. Nice’s beauty comes from the 19th-century mansions on its promenades and boulevards, from the city’s Italianate old quarter and the rugged natural terrain that provides countless wondrous vantage points.

Artists have always cherished this scenery, rendered even more beautiful by the unique light. So Nice is now also one of the best places to go in Europe for art galleries, with museums dedicated to Chagall and Matisse. Add great cuisine, a perfect climate and more than a dash of Riviera glamour, you’ve got a very special place.

Lets explore the best things to do in Nice :

1. Promenade des Anglais

There are seaside walks, and then there’s the Promenade des Anglais, which is more than just a grand walkway next to the Mediterranean: It’s been an integral part of Nice city life (something the recent attack won’t change) since this embankment was built in the 1820s.

Parades for the ebullient Nice Carnival come by in February, while the rest of the year joggers, couples skateboarders and families pass all day long.

The promenade bends for seven kilometres, and on the eastern side is skirted by regal 19th-century palaces.

You can take a seat on the benches and find shade beneath pergolas and palm trees.

2. Vieille Ville

The oldest part of the city is a change from Nice’s broad boulevards and expansive squares like Place Masséna.

It’s a mesh of alleys with local shops and restaurants, darkened by tall ochre-painted apartment buildings and dominated by the Colline du Château to the east.

Glaciers, crêperies and cafes all flow onto the squares, which are often lively until the early hours.

There’s a strong Italian feel  about the architecture and setting, which is no coincidence as Nice wasn’t French until the Treaty of Turin in 1860.

Recommended tour : Nice: Old Town Treasures Walking Tour

3. Parc de la Colline du Château

In the park at the top of this steep hill on the east side of the city you’ll be presented with some of the French Riviera’s great panoramas.

You can look back over Nice and the azure sea in the Baie des Anges, and it’s a sight you’ll want to pause over for as long as possible.

You can pick out all the landmarks, like Hotel Negresco and the port to the east.

If you’re feeling fit you might reach the top on foot from the Vieille Ville, but there’s also a free elevator, which is recommended in the summer.

4. Musée Marc Chagall

Chagall was so involved in the design of this museum that he decided where each of his works would be placed, configured the layout of the gardens and designed the stained-glass windows in the concert hall.

So in many ways the museum is a coherent work of art by itself.

But the reason it was created was to house Chagall’s series of 17 paintings with biblical themes, divided in to the New and Old Testament.

Among these is the famous Resistance, Resurrection, Liberation triptych, painted before, during and after the Second World War.

5. Nice Cathedral

Located in the Vieille Ville, the exterior of this landmark is rather unprepossessing, apart from its patterned dome.

A casual visitor to the square in front might not even realise that this is the city’s cathedral.

Inside it’s a different story, and the building takes on new domensions once you step through its doors.

It was built in the 17th century with a lavish baroque design, composed of ten highly ornate chapels with sculptures, paintings and gilding.

Once again, it’s the kind of building you’d expect to find in Italy or Spain.

6. Cours Saleya Market

Also in Nice’s old quarter is this lovely flower and fresh produce market, which sets up every day except Monday when it’s replaced by a flea market.

If you’re holidaying in an apartment in Nice then this market is a godsend, selling fresh produce, regional delicacies like socca made on site and flowers sourced from the Provence and Alpes-Maritimes countryside.

Many sellers will tempt you with free samples, which is an effective way of getting your business! The flower stalls stay open the longest, remaining until 17:30, long after the food sellers have packed up.

Beat the tourist rush and get there as early as possible.

7. Musée Masséna

This 19th-century villa on the Promenade des Anglais  was donated to the city by the Duke of Rivoli in 1919 on the condition that it should be opened to the public as a museum of local history.

You have to go to see what it’s like inside one of these Belle Époque mansions, and it has gardens that were designed by Édouard André, also responsible for those at the Monte Carlo Casino.

There’s an intriguing miscellany of curiosities inside, like Napoleon’s death mask and a tiara belonging to his wife, Empress Joséphine, as well as a collection of 19th-century French art on the second floor.

This one city has contributed a lot to French cuisine, and there are a handful of local dishes you can’t leave Nice without trying.

Salade Niçoise is an obvious one to start with: It’s hard-boiled egg, green beans, anchovies, tomatoes and calletier olives, and goes superbly with Bandol’s rosé wines or whites from Bellet.

A more casual street-food is Socca, a kind of cross between flatbread and pancake, made with chickpea flower and sold by vendors in the old quarter.

Ratatouille also comes from this part of the world, and this famous vegetable stew is made with courgettes, aubergine, peppers and tomato.

There’s also fougasse bread, onion tart and Daube Niçoise, a braised beef stew, with bacon, tomatoes and red wine.

Available tour : Nice Food Tour

9. Parc Phoenix

There’s a three Euro fee to get in to this park, but it’s money well-spent considering how much there is crammed into these seven hectares on the western end of the Promenade des Anglais.

Kids go free and, it’s one of the few attractions in Nice that they’re guaranteed to enjoy.

There are 20 themed zones, with 2,500 plant species growing around ponds, in a modern greenhouse (one of Europe’s largest) and in a variety of gardens.

There are also animal enclosures and terrariums, with turtles, otters and tropical spiders, while mandarin ducks, Chilean flamingos and iguanas roam freely in the greenhouse.

10. Beaches

Nice’s beaches are pebbly, and while they’re beautiful to wander past, they may not be to everyone’s taste for sunbathing.

There are private sections providing the comfort of sun loungers, and occasionally even laying sand.

Everywhere else you can still pass a relaxing afternoon in the sun, but the currents might be a bit strong for little ones and the beach shelves quite steeply too.

One beach guaranteed to delight the kids is on the other side of Mont Boron at Villefranche-sur-Mer, where the waters are shallower and screened from the open sea by the headlands at Cap de Nice and Cap-Ferrat.

11. Monastère de Cimiez

This monastery on a rise, north of the centre was established by the Benedictines in the 800s.

You get there along the Boulevard de Cimiez, one of Nice’s most impressive thoroughfares, with extraordinary 19th-century hotels and mansions.

The gothic monastery buildings are from the 14th and 15th centuries, with delicate frescoes from the 1500s.

But most visitors make the climb for one purpose: To see the exquisite gardens, with flower beds, topiaries, geometric lawns, pergolas and a terrace with an unbelievable view of the city.

These gardens are the oldest on the Côte d’Azur, plotted in 1546 and a potager for the monks.

12. More Art Museums

With the Riviera Pass you can get into the Chagall Museum and a host of other attractions on one ticket over a 48-hour or seven-day period.

Here’s a quick overview; The Matisse Museum has one of the world’s biggest collections of this revered impressionist’s works, but perhaps more exciting for fans is that it builds a picture of the artist’s influences and process (with heaps of sketches to see). On Promenade des Anglais there’s the Museum of Asian Art, right behind the Phoenix Park, with a pavilion where you can attend an authentic Japanese tea ceremony.

Then there’s the contemporary art museum, MAMAC, with pieces by Warhol, Lichtenstein and Yves Klein.

13. Cap-Ferrat

A byword for Riviera luxury and old money, Cap-Ferrat is 20 minutes east of Nice, on the panoramic Boulevard Napoléon III. Come to be dazzled by the sensational turn-of-the-century mansions.

One, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, is open to visitors and loaded with precious paintings, sculptures and furniture.

Like the renowned path at Cap d’Antibes, Cap-Ferrat is also bordered by a coastal trail with supreme photo opportunities of the Riviera’s mythic rugged coastline and the Massif de l’Esterel.

The path is also the easiest way to get to some to the cosy beaches on the east side.

14. OGC Nice

From August to May, if you want a break from the cerebral and epicurean attractions of Nice and the French Riviera you could always watch some live football at the new Allianz Riviera stadium, a few minutes west of the city.

OGC Nice enjoyed their best season for many years in 2016, and are managed by the Swiss coach Lucien Favre, respected for his attractive style of football.

Their capacious new 35,000 capacity home is worth the admission too, and was built for EURO 2016. The club is also now owned a wealthy overseas consortium, so might be set for big things in coming years.

15. Mont Boron

Between Nice’s port and Cap-Ferrat is a peak that rises steeply from the water, reaching a height of almost 200 metres.

It’s a rare piece of open terrain left to olive, carob and pine groves.

You can walk to the southwest side where Nice rolls out into the distance next to the Baie des Anges, and even the Colline du Château looks small.

On the other side is a comprehensive view of Cap-Ferrat, while you walk along the ridge back to the Fort du Mont Alban.

This bastion was constructed in the mid-16th century is open to visitors in the summer.

15 Best Things to Do in Nice (France):

• Promenade des Anglais
• Vieille Ville
• Parc de la Colline du Château
• Musée Marc Chagall
• Nice Cathedral
• Cours Saleya Market
• Musée Masséna
• Parc Phoenix
• Monastère de Cimiez
• More Art Museums

• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum
• Where to Stay in ...

Where to Stay in Nice?

We will be spending 5 nights in Nice next April and will be traveling by train. The plan is to explore Nice and the surrounding area using the train or bus, whichever is best for the particular destination. Should I look for a place near the train station? Is the train station sufficiently close to old Nice that I should be looking there? Having never been there I don’t know one neighborhood from another. I would love to hear suggestions about neighborhoods and why you like them. Thanks for any help you can give.

The train station is well-served by the tram, and buses to neighboring towns stop close to old Nice, so I would look either in old Nice or, better in my opinion (because I find old Nice a bit "cramped" to walk in, sometimes), just west of old Nice around rue de France or boulevard Victor Hugo.

The train station area is not that bad, but it is not great either and shops and restaurants are a bit tatty. I would not recommend to stay there.

We’ve only stayed in Nice once for 3 nights but we split the difference between the train station and the old town (10 minute walk from the station and <10 minutes to the old town) with lots of restaurants and beautiful buildings in the immediate neighborhood. I think that’s one of only a handful of times we booked a hotel from RS book but I don’t remember the name. It was clean and had some charm. It was great to be so close to the train and pedestrian area. We didn’t spend much time at the hotel as we had several museums we wanted to see, all reached by public transportation.

Thanks balso and Mona. I know that generally speaking the area around train stations is not the best. Thanks for confirming that. Mona, splitting the difference was what I was thinking. I’ve seen a few places midway, but different neighborhoods. I’m looking at apartments (would like a washer since the 5 nights following this stop won’t have one), but a hotel is not entirely out of the question.

We have stayed in Nice several times, the last trip there was for two weeks. We like to be on the western side near Hotel Negresco. You can easily get all over the city but are in a nice neighborhood when you return “ home.” We never want to stay in Old Town but go near there for dinner.

This is the hotel we stayed at on our Rick Steves tour. https://all.accor.com/hotel/1291/index.en.shtml?utm_campaign=seo+maps&utm_medium=seo+maps&utm_source=google+Maps It's about halfway between the train station and Old Town. It's very nice, but we chose to move to a room with a balcony a sea view after the tour was over. Not as fancy as the other, but very nice, good views and on the edge of old town and the promendae. https://www.hotel-albert-1er.com/en/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=mybusiness

I would not stay near the train station.

I stayed five nights at Hotel Regence on 21 Rue Massena, a pedestrian-only street close to the Promenade des Anglais. It was very handy for the places I wanted to walk, and the tram stop was just at the end of my street (about two blocks) to go back to the train station or over to the bus stop. Place Massena, the checkboard photos is very close to go in the evenings, and I ate in the Old Town several times.

I didn’t eat breakfast at the hotel - wanted to try some of the other options each day, but the room was fine and I slept well.

I missed this thread earlier.

Andrea, you have had good advice warning you off the station (Nice Ville). Probably reasonably safe but not in any sense gorgeous.

It has been a few years since I've stayed there (Monaco and Beaulieu-sur-Mer more recently) but I've been several times, usually mid-winter or early spring.

The tram links the station - maybe 4 or 5 minutes walk from the stop into the station - to Old Nice - 2 or 3 stops right at the old town - really well. Fast and frequent, and only takes a very few minutes.

The line along the coast from the airport to the old town is new since I last stayed in Nice and probably is just as good. One major reason we stopped going to Nice and moved down the coast was the difficulty of going out in the evening and getting back to the hotel because the buses ended for the evening at something like 8pm. The tram shouldn't have those early finishes.

It is so easy to get into Nice from Villefranche-sur-Mer (served by train but easier to get to Old Nice on foot or bus is better), Beaulieu-sur-Mer (train quicker than bus, but good bus) in just a few minutes, and those towns are walkable to Cap Ferrat which is a lovely walk - around the little point is good fun.

There is more choice in restaurants in Nice.

There are actually three train stations in Nice. Nice Ville in the centre, Nice Saint-Augustin which is the one at the airport in the west, and Nice Riquier in the east which is reasonably close to the Old Port and Old Nice. Both of those stations are commuter stations and only the all-stops trains stop at them.

I stayed near the train station and would do it again. I found a budget (air conditioned) hotel that charged me 50 euros a night for the last two weeks of May in 2017, including a good continental breakfast. There were multiple interesting restaurant options nearby. I was a solo female traveler and 66 at the time, and I never felt unsafe. But I totally agree that some blocks close to the station (including the one my hotel was on) are scruffy and not attractive. So I would recommend that folks not pinching pennies move a bit away from that area.

We spent a week at Hotel Grimaldi. Hotel Grimaldi It was 10 minutes or a bit more to the Old Town, and about the same to the main train station. I will say that I repeatedly took wrong turns getting to the station and never made the trip the same way twice. Those angle roads!

The hotel was very nice, clean, and staff were helpful and professional. We found some good restaurants nearby.

There's a hotel Garibaldi nearby, but pictures showed giant clowns painted above the beds. We went with Grimaldi.

I echo the recommendation to not stay near the train station. It will be more convenient to actually stay a bit further away, and the restaurant choices simply aren't as good close by (although the big new Libeskind designed comple may be open by then). The ability to take a stroll on the Promende before dinner or take an apero on the beach is really ideal, as well as not having to travel too far.

You can pick a place in the Old Town or in the Carre d'Or (bordered by the sea, the Promenade du Paillon, Blvd Victor Hugo and Blvd Gambetta -- the sea to the train station is just over 1 km, so any place is actually quite walkable, though you could take the tram), or the few blocks around Place Massena. Some people also like the Port area as it is now trendy for the locals but you'll have to keep tramming over (and the closest rail station gets fewer trains). Apartments in the Old Town tend not to have elevators, so read the descriptions carefully. Check your proximity to the tram line for a quick connection to the main Gare (e.g, the far corner near La Perouse hotel is beautiful but the transit links are lacking). The Old Town has a better variety of restaurants and bars than close to the train station, but so do the Carre d'Or, the Port/Place du Pin, and the area northeast of Jean Medecin.

Besides the usual suspects, there are local specialists rental agencies with a higher level of services (like local concierge offices). Line 2 does run directly from the airport, and it could not be easier (though it is very popular).

Thanks everyone. We will be arriving and departing by train, so no need for the airport. I’m looking at hotels and apartments, but leaning towards an apartment. On booking.com the apartments don’t have registration numbers. That concerns me. I’m also looking on Airbnb and VRBO. There are a few on VRBO that I’ve bookmarked that are offered by a company called Nestor & Jeeves. Has anyone rented through them before that can tell me about their experience? The reviews all look good. Is there an advantage to renting through an agency? I’ve never done that before.

For our last trip, which was in 2018, we stayed 1 week at the Aston La Scala, which overlooks a park, and is a 5 minute walk to Old Town and the Sea. We were happy with the hotel, except the rooftop pool was very small, and we didn't use it. And, breakfast was pricey, so we walked to a nearby shop.

Your last post mentioned an apartment, which is a great idea. Once, we stayed 1 week in Villefranche, with a 2bdroom, terrace overlooking the sea. Loved it. I don't remember if it was part of a package though. But....I have looked at Nice Pebbles agency many times online. Haven't used them, but they offer nice looking rentals.

Have fun planning.

jadamowi, thanks for your advice. I appreciate the information about Nice Pebbles. I just looked at their website and their listings are very nice. I am looking for something fully refundable for up to no more than two weeks before arrival at the minimum considering no one knows what the future will bring. Although some of their apartments have decent cancellation policies, the 25% deposit is not refundable.

Andrea, You could make a cancelable hotel reservation but look at Nice Pebbles two weeks before arrival. I have heard good things about Nice Pebbles.

The main benefit with an agency is there is often a local team to provide customer service and generally professional cleaned. Nestor & Jeeves (aka Ashley Parker Real Estate) has a concierge office in the Carre d'Or, with things like luggage storage and local assistance. I've not used them but have interviewed them as rental managers. They tier their properties, as some are more basically furnished and others are in better location. Pebbles (Chez Bleu) has one as well, but over towards Wilson. Pebbles only accepts certain properties in the main areas, has consistent linens, and furnishing standards the owners must maintain.

We stayed at the Welcome Hotel in Villefranche-sur-Mer and loved it. The staff was wonderful and there were several restaurants nearby as well as a great breakfast. The area was a bevy of activity and we enjoyed sitting outside at the hotel bar right by the water. The train station that goes either to Nice or Monaco was a 10-15 minutes walk max. We used the train everyday to go to Nice, Monaco, Beaulieu, and eventually to Nice Ville to take train to Avignon, rent a car to explore the Provence area. We are thinking about going back next year and starting our trip there but going to Lyon, Annecy, Chamonix, instead.

Gooster, thanks for your explanation about the agencies. The apartment I am most interested in is only a block or two from their office. Apparently we would have to go to their office to pick up keys no matter where the apartment is located. If it wasn’t so close that might be a deal breaker for me.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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Nice in November - Nice Forum

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Our first full day we were going to spend in Nice and see the area (castle hill, the market, etc) and then head to Monaco for dinner, see the area and check out the casino (casino was a request from a family member).

Our second day, we have one individual who has requested visiting Ventimilaga, so we were going to take the 34 min train at 8 am. Check out the market, maybe the gardens, beach, landscape, have lunch. From there, I was thinking we could take the train to Eze - see the botanical gardens (this looks beautiful) and see the village. Lastly, I would like to stop in Villefranche-sur-mer on our way back to Nice. I'm hoping to utilize public transportation and it seems like we can get around pretty efficiently!

Last day, I was thinking we could do a bike tour in Nice - or looking for any suggestions on things I have missed above!

I don't know if I am packing too much in, so any insight from personal experience is much appreciated!

The only place you won't get to is Eze, which is not on the train line. Otherwise all very achievable.

Our second day, we have one individual who has requested visiting Ventimilaga, so we were going to take the 34 min train at 8 am. Check out the market, maybe the gardens, beach, landscape, have lunch.

I am a big fan of Ventimiglia, but I would go on Sunday to visit St.Michael's church in the Old Town .

And yes, the train will bring you to Eze-on-the-sea, not sure it is possible to climb to the botanical garden from there, if it is, you will be so tired, that you won't want to see any gardens.

I think a more interesting time can be had in Monte-Carlo by visiting its Oceanographic Museum during daytime

Ventimiglia and Monte-Carlo by train can be easily combined in the same daytime.

"Ventimiglia and Monte-Carlo by train can be easily combined in the same day."

- True, did that once.

And you can have the casino in the evening - mind the dress code.

You will be able to get to eze village by climbing up the path but it will be very tiring and then it's quite a steep climb up to the garden we came down sunday and it was very tiring coming down.We went direct to eze village on the 81 bus does it not run when your coming?

Good to know, thank you!! I had been worried about that when I saw the train map. I will look at the bus route and schedule.

The Oceanographic Museum is seriously out dated and can be chaotic on a wet day. Provided the sun is shining the Eze garden is well worth a visit, especially in the colder weather when there is no heat haze. I have often taken visitors on the circuit of Nice, Eze Village, Monaco, Villefranche, Nice. In November buses will not be crowded. Let me know if you are interested in this and I can give detailed instructions.

IMO there are many places more worth visiting than Ventimiiglia, eg Antibes, Vence, St Paul, . The last time I was there there were crisp bags blowing around on the seafront that looked as though they had been there for at least a year.

Some of Europe's best coastal walking is nearby. You could start with Beaulieu to St Jean Cap Ferrat and continue around the Cap as far as you wish. Look out for the giant tortoise, a sculpture by Jean Fabre, peeping over a garden wall about half way between Beulieu and St Jean.

Hi Robert, Thank you so much for the information! Would you mind providing the details on the circuit you mention from Nice, Eze Village, Monaco, Villefranche, Nice? That sounds wonderful!!

This is easy to do provided you prepare in advance.

1. Go to Nice Vauban bus station (NIce Gare Routiere) either by walking or take the tram to the Vauban stop which is few minutes walk from the bus station. Check this on Google maps. Bus 82 and 112 go to Eze Village. They are not very regular so check times on lignesdazur.com. Say 'Bonjour, Eze Village, sept personnes' to the driver or if you can't manage that say it in English and give him/her ( the women are usually better drivers) 1.5 euro for each passenger. Drivers usually don't like notes but for seven of you a 20 euro note will be OK. Try to sit on the left side of the bus as you get on as that side has the view. The driver usually calls out Eze Village when you arrive but, in any case, almost everyone will get off there. Make sure you know the time of the next bus 112 to Monaco. An hour or so is enough for most people in Eze. Climb up to the top of the village and pay to enter to garden, mainly for the wonderful view.

2. Bus 112 from the stop where you got off on arrival. Again 1.50 per person. Any beauty Monaco once had has been destroyed by grotesque over development so that multi millionaires can avoid paying tax, (so it is a place I avoid but admirers of displays of great wealth absolutely love it. General De Gaulle once threatened to cut off the water and send in the tanks, so French nationals are not permitted to live there). Get off at the terminus and wander as you wish.

3. Bus 100 or train to Beaulieu. The bus can be very crowded so I advise the train. Certainly don't attempt to use the bus after about 4.00pm as you will be packed in rather tighter than sardines in a can.There are ticket machines on the station platform but for seven people I would buy from the office.

4. Turn left out of Beaulieu station and left again at the street. At the bottom of the hill turn right and continue along behind the beach. Just before the Royal Riviera hotel turn left onto footpath Maurice Rouvier, a flat, surfaced walk beside the sea. The only house you pass on the left (now flats) was once owned by Charlie Chaplin and later David Niven. At Saint Jean go up to the road and turn back in the direction you have come. You will find the terminus stop for bus 81, again pay the driver 1.50, which, after passing through Beaulieu again, will in a few minutes take you to Villefranche. Get off at stop La Barmassa and go down through the old town to the seafront.

5. Depending where you are staying in Nice either climb back up to the main road and take bus 81 or 100 or walk to the nearer end of the beach and take the train.

6. NOTE CAREFULLY. All bus and train tickets must be validated, in the machine behind the driver on the bus or in one of the machines on the platform for the train. Failure to do so can result in a heavy fine.

7. Politeness is very important to the locals who react well to a greeting before you ask for anything but this dose not extent to boarding buses or trains when 80 year old ladies will push you forcefully to one side with their shopping trolleys. The convention is to pretend you do not notice that this is happening while steadfastly standing your ground.

Do get back to me if you have further queries.

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