Between sea and mountains, Nice has a typically Mediterranean atmosphere, like a constant air of dolce vita, reminiscent of its long Italian history. Its unique light and landscapes have inspired many artists, providing the ideal backdrop for colorful canvases such as those by Matisse or Chagall. From the art of painting to the art of living, there's only one step: in Nice, you'll enjoy strolling through the markets in search of typical Provençal products, before sampling the succulent local specialties, all overlooking the sea. As the capital of the French Riviera, Nice never ceases to surprise visitors, who flock to the city for Carnival or to enjoy the beaches in summer. From Place Masséna to the Promenade des Anglais, here are Nice's 13 must-sees.
1. Old Nice, a witness to the past
To visit Vieux Nice is to plunge into the city's medieval history, in its picturesque heart. A maze of winding streets and tiny squares, Vieux Nice is home to typical restaurants and stores selling local produce. You'll smell spices and flowers straight from the Cours Saleya market. Vieux-Nice is also the perfect place to reminisce about the city's history: Napoleon Bonaparte lived at number 6 on the street that now bears his name!
If you'd like to learn all about the city's history, from its Greek origins to Italian sovereignty, we recommend you book book this guided walking tour in the medieval old town.
2. Nice Carnival, a flagship event
For 150 years, this beautiful city in the Alpes-Maritimes region has been staging one of the world's biggest carnivals: for two weeks and three weekends, the city's festivities are in full swing. Around Place Masséna and Jardin Albert 1er, floats are paraded in succession during the famous multicolored corsi . Day and night, there are flower battles, giant parades and a wide variety of entertainment. The Nice Carnival is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year!
3. The Promenade des Anglais, the elegance of Nice
Like a red carpet running along the coastline, the Promenade des Anglais is inseparable from the city of Nice. It's the ideal place to enjoy the privileged sunshine of this beautiful star city on the Côte d'Azur.
Built in the 19th century, it owes its name to the many British tourists who were among the only people to enjoy the seaside in winter. Palaces, residences, casinos: it's a succession of luxurious or legendary establishments, like the famous Negresco. In mourning since July 14, 2016, the Promenade des Anglais pays tribute to its victims with its new-found liveliness.
Would you like to discover the Promenade des Anglais in an original, eco-friendly way? This guided Segway tour will let you explore the city's architecture, culture, history and unique landscapes.
4. Discover Nice's specialties
Nice is the city of gourmets: the city has taken full advantage of the treasures of its territory, right down to the plate. We're all familiar with the Niçoise salad, but the emblem of local cuisine is undoubtedly the socca. This oven-baked chickpea flour patty is delicious as an aperitif! We also invite you to try pan bagnat, a tuna or anchovy sandwich, and pissaladière, a kind of tomato-less pizza made with anchovies, onions and olives. The hardest part will be choosing!
This guided walking tour of the old town will give you a taste of Nice's gastronomy, with local specialties such as olive oils, regional wines, cheeses, breads, pastries, candied fruits and delicatessen products.
5. The colorful Matisse Museum
Surrounded by olive trees on the hill of Cimiez, the Villa des Arènes has been home to the Matisse Museum since 1963. This17th-century Genoese mansion has made its space available to the bold paintings of the artist, who lived in Nice from 1917 to 1954. From the dark works of his early years to his colorful canvases - when he moved closer to Fauvism - and almost all of his sculptures, the museum's rooms reveal the whole of Matisse's career. Open all year round, except Tuesdays, this is one of Nice's must-visits, whatever the season!
6. St. Nicholas Cathedral, a historic monument
Built in 1903, St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral, also known as the "Russian Church", owes its name to Emperor Nicholas II, who, along with his mother, financed the work. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1987, it is inspired by the style of St. Basil's Basilica in Moscow. It was built with materials straight from Italy, notably terracotta from Florence. A bit of Russia in the Mediterranean: surprising and unmissable!
Discover the heart of Nice and its cathedral on this guided walking tour through its narrow streets and colorful markets. You'll also pass by the Promenade des Anglais, the Château de Nice, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.
7. Castle Hill, an exceptional panorama of Nice
Castle Hill rises to a height of 93 m. For seven centuries, this great limestone rock was topped by Nice's castle, which was destroyed in the early 18th century. Its ruins can still be seen today. Château hill is the city's green lung, with its wooded park offering a pleasant walking area spread over 2 hectares of vegetation. It's here that you can enjoy one of the finest views of the Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges.
We recommend this guided tour, which takes you to the top of the castle hill and immerses you in Nice's captivating history and specialties.
8. Place Masséna, Nice's nerve center
This is one of Nice's most famous squares, the pulsating heart of the city where there's never a shortage of activity. Its 18th-century style and black-and-white paving give it an unrivalled charm. Since 2007, the Place Masséna has been framed by statues of seated scribes, which light up at night. This creation, entitled "Conversation à Nice", was designed by artist Jaume Plensa. It offers an original and unexpected face to this mythical square.
9. The Cimiez monastery, a haven of peace
Built in the 9th century by the friars of Saint-Pons Abbey, the Cimiez monastery is listed as a Monument Historique. Inside, you can admire its frescoes and carved wooden altarpiece. Its garden is also well worth a visit. One of the oldest on the Côte d' Azur, its layout has remained unchanged since 1546! This splendid setting, dotted with orange, mandarin and sour orange trees, also offers a beautiful view over the eastern part of the city.
10. The Musée de Masséna, a witness to history
Housed in a splendid 19th-century villa inspired by the Italian architecture of the First Empire, the Musée Masséna was once the winter residence of Victor Massena,5th Prince of Essling. In 1921, he decided to open this residence to the public, housing interesting collections on the history of Nice from the Napoleonic Empire to 1939. This beautiful building, set in a wooded park, can be seen from the Promenade des Anglais.
Interested in a guided tour of Nice? Book a professional driver here, who will show you Nice's history and heritage, important dates to know and the city's major monuments, including the famous Masséna and Garibaldi squares, brimming with fascinating stories.
11. Stroll through the Cours Saleya market
On vacation, we love colorful, vast markets full of wonderful surprises. That's what you'll find in Vieux Nice, at the Cours Saleya market. Primeurs and flower sellers meet there every morning, from Tuesday to Sunday. An explosion of colors and scents attracts locals and vacationers alike. Here, you can indulge in the warm atmosphere of Nice's most emblematic market.
12. Enjoy Nice's beautiful beaches
You can't really enjoy Nice without lounging on the 7 km of beach along the Promenade des Anglais! The privileged location of this vast expanse of pebbles makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in France. In all, no fewer than 20 public and 15 private beaches share the area.
The Plage du Voilier, near the Musée Massena, is often a favorite with families, thanks to its playground. The Centenaire and Carras beaches have adapted facilities for people with reduced mobility.
13. Visit Phoenix Botanical and Zoological Park
Immerse yourself in an oasis of greenery, creating emotions and sensations. In addition to the pleasurable aspects of a visit, the park is a committed player in educating and raising public awareness. Phoenix Park 's most cherished wish is to maintain the biodiversity of its flora and fauna. From olfactory discoveries to visual contemplations, you'll find this little paradise charming with every step. In this park, which has been awarded the "Remarkable Garden" label, you'll discover over 2,500 plant species and 70 animal species. A veritable firework display of colorful wonders awaits you in the park's high pyramidal greenhouse. It's pure wonder, and a real "coup de coeur"!
What's free to visit in Nice?
Most of Nice's beautiful sights are free. The Promenade des Anglais is a perfect example! Of course, you can always stop for a drink, a bite to eat or a souvenir. But generally speaking, this wonderful discovery costs nothing, and neither does a visit to Old Nice. Then take in the view from the Colline du Château and the Place Masséna, two other free must-sees.
Add a visit to the garden of the Cimiez monastery, another of Nice's wonders, 100% free of charge. Finally, religious buildings such as Sainte-Réparate Cathedral also open their doors to visitors free of charge.
What to do in Nice at night?
Nice is a party town! In fact, it's the ideal destination for a successful EVJF. There are plenty of nightclubs to choose from, such as the High Club, but there's plenty more to do too. Great places like Wayne's open their doors to you for wild karaoke nights!
Or why not try Hotel Mystique? An escape game unlike any other, it's sure to be a great time with friends. You can also board a beautiful boat to discover the French Riviera at sunset.
Why not take advantage of your stay in Nice to book a sunset cruise? this sunset cruise in a cove on the Cap de Nice? You'll be able to contemplate the last glimmers of daylight while enjoying some of Nice's specialties. You can also swim under the rays of the golden hour, at sunset, for an unforgettable experience.
What to see in Nice in 1 day?
You only have one day to visit Nice? Then don't waste any time: focus on the city's most beautiful spots! Start with breakfast at the Dolce Momento on the Promenade des Anglais. This will give you time to admire this famous street, before taking you on a pleasant stroll. Then plunge into Old Nice, with a stop at the Palais Lascaris.
Your day continues at Colline du Château and its cemetery, before heading for Place Masséna. If you still have time, we invite you to discover the Promenade du Paillon and Place Garibaldi.
If you've only got one day to discover Nice, we recommend that you book this guided tour which will take you to all the essential places in Nice, such as the port, the old town, the seafront Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill.
What to do in Nice without a car?
Did you arrive in Nice by plane, in one of the world's most beautiful airports? It's a great idea to enjoy the city without the hassle of parking and driving. Good news: there's plenty of public transport in and around Nice! A weekly pass allows you to use the tramway and bus for around twenty euros. So, the answer to the question is simple: you can do EVERYTHING in Nice without a car:
- old Nice,
- the Promenade des Anglais,
- place Garibaldi and Place Masséna,
- the Cours Saleya market,
- cimiez hill,
- the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint-Nicolas,
- the port, to admire yachts and colorful fishing boats (the famous "pointus").
Depending on where you're staying, you'll be able to get to some of these sites on foot. For the rest, public transport will take you to Nice's various points of interest. Want to get out of town? Take the TER to Villefranche-sur-Mer or Menton (with bus option beforehand).
Where to stay in Nice?
Don't forget that life on the Côte d'Azur, including Nice, is quite expensive. To find low-cost accommodation, it's best to plan ahead, or take advantage of last-minute offers. From inexpensive accommodation to luxury hotels and comfortable, affordable intermediaries, you'll find everything you need for a decent stay in Nice.
L'Arôme Hôtel, best placed
This comfortable hotel benefits from its proximity to the beaches and the Promenade des Anglais, without the noise pollution. The owners welcome you to an Art Deco establishment whose modern interior has been renovated for optimum comfort. The family atmosphere is complemented by a full range of services: a great address at an affordable price you can book here to make the most of a weekend in Nice!
Le Negresco, Nice's most emblematic hotel
Le Negresco hotel offers a setting so exceptional it's like entering a museum! Everywhere, the luxurious décor catches the eye. You'll find yourself surrounded by luxury, softness and comfort, in a voluptuous setting where little touches enhance your stay. Baroque decorations mingle with neoclassical facades, creating an ensemble like no other. This is the ideal address for couples looking for top-of-the-range services. If you're tempted, go here to reserve your room!
Le Saint-Paul, the best value for money
Click here to to book your room in this atypical establishment offering one of Nice's finest views and excellent value for money. Just cross the street to get to the beach, and you'll appreciate the rooms with sea views, as well as the quietness of the area and the proximity of the old town, easily accessible on foot.
Nice is the ideal place to spend a weekend on the Côte d'Azur. Going away for a week? We recommend you explore the other emblematic towns along the coast. Antibes, Monaco, Menton, Grasse and even Saint-Tropez are pure wonder!
