Nice is the heart of the French Riviera. Between the Alps and the sea, the city combines a famous seafront, a lively old town with an Italian feel and some excellent art museums. It is also the best base for day trips along the Côte d’Azur, from Monaco to Antibes.
Why visit Nice
Nice offers sun almost all year, a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle and great connections. Its tradition as a winter resort for European travellers was recognised by UNESCO in 2021 (“Nice, Winter Resort Town of the Riviera”).
Top things to do in Nice
The Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais runs for kilometres along the Baie des Anges. Walk, cycle or just sit in one of the famous blue chairs and watch the sea.
Old Nice and the Cours Saleya
Vieux-Nice is a maze of narrow lanes with Baroque churches, small squares and colourful façades. The Cours Saleya hosts a flower and food market most mornings.
Castle Hill
Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – on foot or by lift – for the classic view over the bay, the old town and the port. There is a waterfall and a park at the top.
Place Masséna and the Promenade du Paillon
The checkerboard Place Masséna leads to the Promenade du Paillon, a long green park with fountains and water mirrors.
The Matisse and Chagall museums
In the hills of Cimiez, the Musée Matisse is set in a Genoese villa near Roman ruins. The Musée national Marc Chagall displays his large biblical paintings.
The port and the coast
The colourful Port Lympia is a good starting point for walks along the coast towards Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Best time to visit Nice
Spring and autumn are ideal: warm, sunny and less crowded. Summer is hot and busy. In February, the Nice Carnival brings parades and flower battles; winters are mild.
Getting to and around Nice
Nice Côte d’Azur airport is one of the busiest in France and only about 7 km from the centre, linked by tram. Regional trains run along the coast to Villefranche, Èze, Monaco, Menton, Antibes and Cannes. The city has a tram network and bike rental.
What to eat in Nice
Socca (a thin chickpea pancake), pissaladière (onion tart), salade niçoise, pan bagnat, stuffed vegetables (petits farcis) and wines from Bellet, the city’s own small appellation.
Nice travel tips
- Bring water shoes: the beaches are pebbly.
- Use the train for coastal day trips – it is faster than driving in summer.
- Visit the market early for the best atmosphere.
Nice FAQ
How many days do you need in Nice?
Two or three days for the city, plus one or two for day trips along the coast.
Are the beaches in Nice sandy?
No – they are pebble beaches, with clear water and many private beach clubs.
