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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Salade Niçoise

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

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

Cap de Nice

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

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

The Matisse Museum

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

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

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

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

PlanetWare.com

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nice

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

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

Historic Center of Nice

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

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

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

1. Vieille Ville (Old Town)

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

Vieille Ville (Old Town)

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

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

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

Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate

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

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

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

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

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

Promenade des Anglais

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

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

View of Nice and the Promenade des Anglais

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

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

Statue de la Liberté on the Quai des Etats Unis

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

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

Place Massena near Avenue Felix Jaures

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

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

Apollo Fountain

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

Outdoor cafés at Place Massena

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

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

View from Parc de la Colline du Château

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

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

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

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

Author Lisa Alexander at Point de Vue Terrace

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

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

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

Waterfall at Parc de la Colline du Château (Castle Hill Park)

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

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

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

Musée Matisse

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

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

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

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

Address: 164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice

Monastère Notre-Dame-de-Cimiez

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Place du Monastère, Nice

Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain

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

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

Rooftop of the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain

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

Address: Place Yves Klein, Nice

Jardin Albert 1er

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

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

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

Miroir d'Eau on the Promenade du Paillon

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

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

Musée National Marc Chagall

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

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

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

Address: Avenue Docteur Ménard, Nice

Flower Market (Marché aux Fleurs)

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

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

Marchés aux Fruits et aux Légumes

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

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

Villa Masséna

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

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

Villa Masséna Interior

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

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

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

Carnival de Nice

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

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

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

Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas (St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral)

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

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

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

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

Address: Avenue Nicolas II and Boulevard Tzarévitch, Nice

Musée des Beaux-Arts

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

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

Address: 33 Avenue des Baumettes, Nice

Place Garibaldi

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

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

Place Garibaldi

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

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

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

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

View of Villefranche-sur-Mer from a coastal cruise

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

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

Jardin des Arenes de Cimiez

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

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

Address: 184 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice

Scarlet Macaws at the Parc Phoenix

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

Address: 405 Promenade des Anglais, Nice

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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

Nice Map - Tourist Attractions

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The Unknown Enthusiast

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!

A woman in a flower dress stands in front of a fountain with water spouting out and horses on the side. There are bright red buildings behind them.

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!

must visit places in nice france

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)
  • Don’t forget travel insurance! I always purchase insurance from Insure My Trip – get a free quote here

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.

A plate of assorted cheeses with boxes of tomatoes and grapes/dates to the side. At the foot of the cheese board there is a little circular box of toothpicks.

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.

A plate of assorted cheeses with boxes of tomatoes and grapes/dates to the side. At the foot of the cheese board there is a little circular box of toothpicks.

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.

A large metal circular baking pan with a thin crispy pancake-like treat on it. A woman is cutting up the socca for customers on a metal oven.

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

4 glasses of white wine with wine swirling around with lights in the background.

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

A beautiful rock half moon open cave with teal-blue water and a small white sailboat floating in the water.

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

Zucchini, lemons, asparagus, basil, and eggplant are some of foods that you'll cook with when doing a cooking class in Nice.

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

A cute little alley with yellow, blue, and orange buildings and plants all around.

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 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.

A beach seen from the coast of Nice with palm trees looking out towards a sidewalks and deep blue water.

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.

A white wood restaurant and gazebo on the beach. The sky is pink, yellow, and blue with reflections on the water.

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.

Hotel Le Negresco  sits on the corner of a boardwalk with sculpted white and coral wood. It is one of the best things to do in Nice.

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.

A red, white, and blue #I love Nice sign on the boardwalk next to the beach.

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.

The view of the Nice coastline.with hundreds of colorful buildings, and row of palm trees on the coastline. This coastline is by far one of the best activities to do in Nice.

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.

A rock waterfall with the white water streaming down with a pool of rocks.

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).

The view of coral buildings inside a rectangular port with hundreds of ships and one giant yacht

This map illustrates these two paths:

must visit places in nice france

8. Port Lympia

A row of rainbow buildings on the coastline next to a sheer rock cliff with green shrubs and a port with around 50 boats.

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.

A row of buildings with lots of windows next to lots of row boats. There are lots of gray clouds in the sky covering the water.

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

A statue of a king with blue horses and water streaming into a pool next to black and white checkered ground and red buildings.

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!

A red square with black and white checkered floor with railroad tracks and red-yellow buildings all around the 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.

A shallow pool with multiple tin fountains with the water reflecting the orange yellow sunset.

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.

A brown rusty sculpture with green grass and a very skinny sidewalk. There are colorful buildings next to mountains.

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

A private beach with 15 pinstripe umbrellas and beach chair stations. There is also a small boardwalk leading to the teal blue water. These beaches are one of the best things to do in Nice.

Spending time at the beach is a top activity in Nice no matter when you visit.

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.

A white sand beach next to the teal beach with a cobblestone wall leading up to the buildings.

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

The old town part of Nice with classic colorful building styles leading up the mountain.

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.

A tiny alley with burnt yellow buildings and tiny boulangeries.

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.

A yellow and orange building with a large french flag.

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

Tons of bouquets of different colored flowers with lots of different wrappings covering the flowers.

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.

Lots of greens separated in different wood boxes.

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!

China teacups and teapots. There are intricate designs of flowers and gardens.

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

A large glamorous castle-like building with palm trees and glowing lights.

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

A complete stone building with staircases leading up to a oven room

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

Several large rocks with a woman in a blue pinstripe dress looking out at the port with hundreds of boats sailing in the water and lots of buildings on the coastline.

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

Repeating rows of grapes next to a stone building for pressing the grapes.

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 

A red building in a deserted courtyard

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.

must visit places in nice france

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

19. Chagall Museum

People walk around an art museum with lots of intricate pieces.

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.

A red background piece of art with 10 angels on a bench.

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

20. Villa Massena Museum

A small white shingled museum with an awning surrounded by palm trees.

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.

A Victorian dining room with light green chairs and a glass chandelier.

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.

A rock woman statue on a pedestal in a museum.

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

A roman archaeological site with stone ruins.

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

A stone ruin with a overhang and arched windows looking out at the trees.

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.

A couple door stone overhang with lots of trees surrounding it and dirt paths leading in and out.

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 .

A gravel and cement path leading through a park with lots of oak trees with light green leaves.

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

A church with an arched ceiling. There are lots of etchings on the pillars with wooden pews.

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.

A stone steeple with restaurants all around with colorful buildings everywhere.

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

A church chapel with paintings surrounding the arched ceiling. There are pillars all around.

Eglise Saint Jacques le Majeur is a bit of a hidden gem church 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

A very tall and skinny church with triangle arches and one large steeple.There is gold surrounding the entire way.

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

A Russian influenced church with multiple steeples ( circular and rectangular)

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).

must visit places in nice france

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

A square triangle ceiling with paintings covering the top and the pews leading up to the podium and microphone.

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.

A stone marble garden with trees surrounding the entire background.

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!

A Nice overlook with the city and buildings against the mountains up against the sea reflecting the blue puffy clouds.

28 . Sample Nicoise Cuisine

A salad with hard-boiled eggs, vegetables, assorted greens, and pork in a wood bowl on top of a white napkin and blue tablecloth.

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

A crisp pancake like dish with chickpea flour and caramelized sugar.

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

A very summer colored buildings with light green plants along an alleyway.

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.

A stone pathway halfway submerged under the crystal blue water.

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!

What to Do In Nice – The Wrap Up

Is Nice worth visiting? My answer is a resounding HECK YES. After traveling extensively through France, it remains one of my absolute favorite places to visit.

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.

Pin for Later!

must visit places in nice france

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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Visit Nice: The 17 Best things to do and see

Things to do in nice: the 17 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re planning to visit Nice during your next trip to France?

Between sea and mountains, Nice , the city where I was born and where I spent more than 20 years of my life is full of tourist attractions and great activities to do.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have created a guide of the best things to do and see in Nice and around.

At the end of the article, you will also find itineraries to visit Nice in 1, 2, 3 days or even a week as well as my list of the best places to stay in Nice depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Nice? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Promenade des Anglais

2. discover the old town of nice, 3. enjoy an italian ice cream, 4. have a go at nice local food, 5. nice castle hill, 6. going to the beach in nice, 7. cimiez neighbourhood, 8. nice russian orthodox cathedral,  9. nice carnival, 10. rest in the shades at park vigier, 11. do the nice coastal walk, 12. boat trip from nice, 13. nice walking tour: from the promenade des anglais to coco beach, 14. take a stroll at the mont boron, 15. go to the phoenix park, 16. visit nice museums, things to do in nice when it rains, things to do around nice, what to do in nice for a day, what to do in nice for 2 days, what to do in nice for 3 days, a week in nice, where to stay in nice, renting a boat in nice, nice tourist map, you’re traveling in france these articles will help you, visit nice: the 17 must-see attractions.

It’s impossible to talk about Nice without mentioning the famous Promenade des Anglais (English Promenade). Formerly a favourite resort for English people during winter months, it’s today the most famous tourist attraction of the city.

This world-famous 7km promenade runs from the Castle Hill (La colline du Château in French) to Nice airport.

If you are coming to Nice for the first time, I strongly recommend you to at least walk on the part that goes from the old town of Nice to the Negresco hotel , passing through the Jardin Albert 1er and the Palais de la Méditerranée.

If you want to do the whole Promenade des Anglais , it’s best to rent a bike or rollerblades!

And even better than biking or rollerblading, you can also enjoy a Segway tour on the Promenade des Anglais!

This 2 hours guided tour will allow you to discover the famous Promenade as well as wander through the streets of the old town and go to the top of the Castle Hill.

To book your guided visit of Nice by Segway , you just have to click on the button below:

Promenade des Anglais

Another must see in Nice is its old town with its shady alleyways, colourful facades and typically Mediterranean shutters.

Impossible to talk about Nice Old Town (le Vieux Nice) without mentioning the Cours Saleya , where is held almost every morning (except on Monday) the famous market and flower market .

On Monday morning, the Cours Saleya becomes a big open-air flea market! It’s also the ideal place to have a drink or eat something at one of the many terraces.

When you visit the Old Town of Nice , I also recommend you to see:

The Courthouse Square (Place du Palais de Justice) The Rossetti Square (Place Rossetti), where the magnificent Saint Reparata Cathedral is located. There is also the city’s best ice cream shop, I will tell you more about it below The Saint Francis Square (Place Saint François) and its small fish market.

It’s also possible to go to the Castle Hill through the Old Town. I will tell you more about it a bit further.

Nice old town

While you are in the Old Town of Nice , you should take advantage of it to enjoy a traditional Italian ice cream.

I recommend “Azzurro” , which is located on Rossetti Square, not far from another ice cream shop that is well known by tourists but less good, Fenocchio.

The quality of the products used is much better at Azzurro, and their cones are home made , it has absolutely nothing to do in terms of taste!

Needless to say that eating ice cream is one of my favorite activities when I come back to Nice 😋.

Italian ice cream Nice Azzuro

Visiting Nice also means discovering the local food specialities , the “cuisine Niçoise”, during your stay, which is the pride of the niçois (inhabitants of Nice)

  • Socca: It’s one of the most famous culinary specialities of Nice and one of the most representative of the city.  Made from chickpea flour, you will find very good ones in the old town of Nice. Ideally, a good socca should’nt be dry, but slightly creamy inside.
  • Panisse: Another speciality made from chickpea flour, most often fried. A delight!
  • Pissaladière: A “pie with onions and anchovies”, that’s how we could sum up the pissaladière! Try it during your stay in Nice! (Available also in an anchovy-free version)
  • Salade niçoise: The great classic of Nice: Tuna, tomatoes, salad and other raw vegetables, anchovies, hard-boiled eggs, olives niçoises and of course olive oil vinaigrette (from Nice too, otherwise it’s sinful).
  • Pan Bagnat: This is a sandwich version of the niçoise salad: tuna and/or anchovies, raw vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, niçoise olives and olive oil, all in a round bread.
  • Farcis niçois (Stuffed vegetables) , daube niçoise (Beef stew) etc. : In Nice, we like everything that is “Niçois”, so we have a Niçoise version of many dishes. It’s the same as the classics, but better. (Surely thanks to the “niçoise” olive oil ……. well, except for the stew, probably, or some people have been hiding things from me!)

You’re going to Nice?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Nice on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Nice.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Nice, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Nice!

Socca

The Castle Hill park (le parc de la Colline du Château) is located on the hill overlooking Nice Old Town. It owes its name to the military fortress that overlooked the bay of Nice from the 11th to the 18th century.

You should go to this park for the stunning viewpoints it offers over the city, the Bay of Angels (Baie des Anges), the harbour and the mountains.

Here are the 5 best viewpoints of Nice Castle Hill:

  • At the top , with a view of the airport and mountains
  • Close to the children’s playground area , view of the harbour and the hill of Mont Boron,
  • Bellanda Tower : View over the Bay of Angels
  • Belvedere near the exit of the elevator
  • Cascade du Château , an artificial waterfall, but still very pretty!

You can walk up and down the castle on foot or use the elevator. I recommend you to take the stairs for at least one of the way as this allows you to pass by the Bellanda Tower lookout I mentioned earlier.

If you go down on the other side of the castle, you should take a walk through the castle cemetery , which also offers a beautiful view of the city. It’s even better if you can do it at the end of the day to enjoy the sunset!

You understood it, the Castle Hill is really one of the best places to visit in Nice (and my favourite in the town center for its amazing view!).

Ohh, and one more thing: It’s also possible to go to the Castle by taking the Nice mini-train tour! The departure point is on the Promenade des Anglais , in front of the centenary monument of the Jardin Albert 1er.

Due to the Castle hill opening hours, it’s not possible to watch the sunset from there all year round.

Opening hours:

From 01/10 to 31/03: 8h30-18h From 01/04 to 31/09: 8h30-20h

So you will be able to watch the sunset from the Castle hill only the following months

– September, November, December, January and up to around 15th of February.

Castle Hill and Bellanda tower

If Nice beach looks good in photo, with its big pebbles, it’s not necessarily the most comfortable beach in the world!

As far as swimming is concerned, it’s the same thing. In Nice, the water gets very deep very quickly, so it’s not really an ideal spot for snorkeling or playing in the water for example.

For this reason, I recommend you go to Villefranche sur Mer or Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. I will tell you more about theses cities later in this article.

And if you like to get a tan for hours on the beach, you can go to one of  Nice private beaches, like Castel beach (Castel Plage), located at the foot of the Castle Hill. Other beaches allow you to do nautical activities like parasailing, stand up paddle or tubing!

And speaking of nautical activities, here are the best water sports to enjoy during your trip to Nice.

Simply click on the links below to book them at the best price:

  • Parasailing in the Bay of Angels, near Nice Old Town
  • First dive , with 2 dives of 20 minutes or opt for a freediving class!
  • 3-hour Snorkeling tour to go fish-watching
  • Stand up Paddle
  • Kayaking down the Var river
  • Canyoning – Here are the best canyons to explore around Nice Cramassouri Canyon – Riolan Canyon – Canyon of the Riou de la Bollène – Gorges du Loup Canyon – Imberguet Canyon .

Beach Nice

Cimiez neighbourhood is at first a residential place, so you will not find many shops or restaurants. Nevertheless, you have some nice points of interest to visit:

  • Cimiez Arena Park (parc des arènes de Cimiez)
  • The Cimiez arenas (les arènes de Cimiez), located at the entrance to the park
  • Cimiez monastery gardens (jardins du monastère de Cimiez), from which you will have a panoramic view of Nice and the Bay of Angels.
  • Cimiez archaeological museum and it’s Roman ruins.
  • The Henri Matisse museum , which is located in the arenas park.
  • Marc Chagall National Museum

To go to Cimiez, you can take the bus number 5, 33 or 70.

Cimiez arenas Nice

Nice Russian Orthodox Cathedral , listed historical monument, is the most important Orthodox worship religious building outside Russia. It thus clearly deserves its place in this list of the best places to visit in Nice!

Even if quite far from what you were expecting to do in Nice, it’s worth a look, even just to appreciate the contrast between the architecture and the Mediterranean vegetation, or even the palm trees just around the corner!

It’s also possible to visit the inside of the cathedral.

You can get there on foot or with bus number 8.

Nice Russian cathedral

Nice Carnival , largest carnival in France and one of the world’s most famous, takes place every year in February for 2 weeks.

Every year, the festivities attract several hundred thousand of spectators, coming to enjoy the monumental floats and t he famous flower parade (also called flower “battle”) on the Promenade des Anglais.

Nice Carnival

Totally unknown by other tourists, the park Vigier , close to La Réserve and the “Coco Beach” restaurant is the ideal place to take a nap or read a book in the shade of palm trees, during the hottest hours of the day.

The right part of the park is always very quiet, as the children are mostly playing in the left part of the park.

This walk, that most tourists don’t know about is in 2 parts and allows you to walk from Nice to Villefranche sur Mer , while following the sea for 90% of the time.

  • The first part starts from Coco Beach and takes you up to the Cap de Nice by a series of stairs, to bypass the cliffs of the Materlinck Palace (Palais Materlink).
  • The second part of the coastal path begins with a descent down the stairs in the big turn after the Materlinck Palace . It allows you to reach the port of Villefranche Darse.

The walk isn’t very long, if you want to do it all the way from Nice, count about 1h30-2h depending on where you start from. It’s also possible to make only one of the 2 parts. If you only want to do the second (30-45 minutes), you can take bus number 100 from Nice harbor to the “English hospital” stop. The beginning of the coastal walk is about 200m further on, in the big turn.

To get back to Nice , take bus 15 or 100 in Villefranche sur Mer.

A section allowing passage through the cliffs was being studied, which would allow to walk from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer entirely by the seaside, but it seems that the project is unfortunately at a standstill.

If you prefer, you can also discover the coast between Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer with a boat trip.

Starting from Nice, you will first sail to Villefranche and then continue to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, where you can admire superb villas from the sea.

The cruise to the bay of Villefranche needs to be booked by clicking on the button below:

And if you prefer to enjoy a small group boat tour (on a Zodiac) at sunset , you should rather book this excursion (click here).

The coast walk from Nice to Villefranche

In addition to the cruise to Villefranche bay I told you about, there are a few other great boat trips to do from Nice . (Simply click on the links to book them):

  • An evening sea trip on a solar boat
  • Boat trip from Nice to St Tropez , with free time in St Tropez to visit the town
  • Boat tour to the Lerins Islands , with a visit to Sainte-Marguerite island (walking tour of the island, swimming, picnic)
  • A round trip transfer Nice-Monaco by boat
  • A 4-hour fishing trip.

For more details about these boat trips, you can read my detailed article: The 8 best boat trip from Nice

In addition to these boat tours, you have 2 other options that will allow you to discover Nice surroundings by boat, away from the other tourists.

To enjoy a VIP experience , you can:

1) Book a private boat trip from Nice

In my opinion, this is the best way to make the most of your day at sea in Nice!

You will rent a boat with an experienced skipper that will take care of showing you the most beautiful places of the French Riviera .

Motorboat, sailboat, catamaran or even yacht: choose the boat you want to spend a dream day!

As you can imagine, this type of VIP day at sea is extremely popular, so you should rent your boat with skipper as soon as possible. It would be a shame to miss this day because all boats are already rented!

You can find all boats with skipper in Nice by clicking on the button below:

2) Rent a boat to discover Nice’s surroundings

If you have a boat license, your second option for a great day at sea is simply to rent a boat!

To do so, it’s very simple: you just have to click on the button below:

louer un bateau

For those who wish to discover the city on foot, here is an itinerary that will allow you to pass by the must-see places in Nice.

Start your Nice walking tour in Nice Old Town and the Cours Saleya , then continue on the Promenade des Anglais to the Negresco Hotel and Villa Massena (which houses the excellent Massena Museum ). Go back for about 300m and take the Congrès street (rue du Congrès). Then, take the first street on the right, and you will arrive in the pedestrian zone , a good place to shop, have a drink, or eat in one of the many restaurants.

At the end of the street, you will reach Place Massena , with the Sun fountain (fontaine du soleil) located at its south, in the centre of which is a 7m high statue of Apollo. On your right is the Jardin Albert 1er with its monumental arch of 115.5 degrees.

Continue along the Promenade du Paillon , where the Nice water mirror is located. This park leads you directly to Garibaldi Square.

As it will certainly be lunch time, if you would like to taste a Niçoise speciality like socca , I recommend you to briefly go back to the old town of Nice located 2 steps away to fill your stomach! And why not finish with a good ice cream from Azzurro , on Rossetti Square?

After the meal, go back to Garibaldi Square and head toward the port of Nice by Cassini street .

Go around the harbor by the Quai des Deux Emmanuels and take Boulevard Franck Pilatte , which will lead you to La Réserve (it’s on this beach that Brice de Nice lives, in case you know the movie!), Parc Vigier and Coco Beach , in that order.

From Coco Beach , you can continue along the coastal path , and even reach Villefranche sur Mer . In this case, you will need to take the bus number 100 to go back to Nice.

Finally, at the end of the day, you can go to the Nice Castle Hill , walking up the stairs or using the elevator, in order to enjoy the sunset!

Other itineraries are available on the city of Nice website (in french).

Jardin Albert 1er nice

Mount Boron is a Mediterranean forest located on the east of Nice.

It’s also the place where you can find the very photogenic Fort Mount Alban . It offers many walks with beautiful views of the Bay of Angels and the Bay of Villefranche .

You should really go to the Mount Alban Fort , at the top, the view is amazing! For me the best place in Nice. Going there is a great activity with a rewarding view!

To get to Mont Boron, take the city bus number 30 from Nice.

View on Nice harbor from the Mont Boron

The Phoenix Park (Parc Phoenix), also called “Nice Floral Park” is a botanical and zoological garden located near Nice Airport, in the Arenas district.

On 7 hectares, you will find a very high biodiversity, both fauna and flora, with aviaries, marsupials, porcupines, otters and a pond.

One of the major attractions of the site is the large greenhouse , which has several tropical climates with tropical plants and various bird specimens including pink flamingos.

In the park, you will also find a children playground area. Phoenix park is a great place to spend an afternoon with your family in Nice!

The entrance fee for the Phoenix Park is 5 euros per person. Discounts are available for families and students.

To get there, you will need to take the Tramway line 2 and stop at “Parc Phoenix” station.

Bird Phoenix park

I have already talked about a few of Nice museums , especially in the paragraph about the district of Cimiez, but there are many others worth seeing. Here are my 5 favorites!

  • Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Nice , called MAMAC, near the Garibaldi Square.
  • Asian Arts Museum , located right next to Phoenix Park
  • The Museum of Art and History of the Massena Palace, a superb “Belle époque” style mansion on the Promenade des Anglais.
  • The Palais Lascaris , in Nice old town, has a very beautiful collection of musical instruments, and some of them are really unusual!
  • Jules Chéret Fine Arts Museum , located in the magnificent setting of Villa Thompson, on Baumettes hill.

And as a bonus, if you like photography, I recommend the Charles Nègre photography museum , which is small, but offers high quality exhibitions. Moreover, it’s located in the Nice old town, so you don’t need to need to go far away to find it!

Good to know: In Nice, it’s not possible to pay museum’s admission fees one by one, you have to buy the “Nice Museums Pass” , which gives you access to all the municipal museums:

  • 24h pass: 10 euros
  • 7 days pass: 20 euros

You can find more information about the museums included in the Nice Museums Pass on the official Nice museum website .

Massena museum Nice

Us, Niçois (inhabitants of Nice), don’t dare to talk too much about it, but sometimes… it’s raining in Nice . Yes, for real! Well, that’s not what you’ll see on postcards.

If, in a pure moment of bad luck, this happens during your vacation on the French Riviera, I have prepared a list of activities to do in Nice if the weather isn’t good:

  • Visiting one of the many museums in Nice: When it rains, it’s certainly the first thing that will come to your mind. I’ve made you a list of the best ones a little higher up in the article. Don’t forget to take the Nice Museums Pass.
  • Bowling: There is a quite large bowling alley in Nice, which also has a few arcade video games: the Nice Acropolis bowling alley, here is the address: 5 Esplanade Kennedy, 06000 Nice
  • Ice skating: head for the Jean Bouin ice rink, close to the Acropolis and bowling for a short gliding session! There is also a swimming pool in the same building. All equipment can be rented, gloves included.
  • Play an escape game: it’s a fun experience to do with family or friends. There are several in Nice, including “I Lock U” and “Fox in a Box”, which are in the city centre. A great activity to do in case of bad weather.
  • Going to Monaco and visiting the Oceanographic Museum : it’s simply one of the best museums in the region.
  • Play laser tag: The only laser tag game of Nice is located in the plain of Var (Plaine du Var), at the Lingostière shopping center
  • Cinema: There are 3 cinemas in Nice city center : The Pathé Masséna, the Pathé Paris and the Varieties. The first two are located on Avenue Jean Médecin, and the third on a perpendicular street, the Avenue Victor Hugo.
  • Experience video games in virtual reality: It’s raining? Well, this is a great opportunity to try out virtual reality. A VR playground,”Game Over”, opened in Nice. Here is the address: 14 boulevard de Riquier – 06300 Nice
  • Go to the fair: If you are in Nice in December, you will have the opportunity to go for a walk in Luna Park, a temporary amusement park. As most of it is located indoor, in the exhibition center (Palais des Expositions), it’s a great activity to do when it’s raining in Nice

Monaco oceanographic museum

If you’re going to Nice, I strongly recommend that you go for a trip around Nice , as the area around the city is full of beautiful places to discover. Here are someone of my favourite places to see around Nice:

  • Villefranche-sur-Mer: A very pretty little Mediterranean town. Don’t miss: The Villefranche Old Town, the darse (it’s port) and most important, the citadel St. Elmo (Citadelle Saint-Elme), also simply called “Villefranche citadel”.
  • Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: The peninsula of billionaires, with incredible luxury villas like the villa Ephrussi de Rothschild . To do: the coastal walk tour of the Cap Ferrat, which starts from the beach “Passable”. You can also swim in one of the pretty little coves along the way!
  • Eze village: This small village perched above the sea is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Also worth a visit: the exotic garden of Eze.
  • Menton: A small town on the Italian border, known for its lemon festival and sunshine. The old town of Menton is quite pretty.
  • Antibes: Known first and foremost for its Square fortress (Fort Carré), a 16th century military fort by the sea, the old town of Antibes is also worth a visit, with excellent restaurants. Another thing to do in Antibes: the Cap d’Antibes tour and its magnificent residences.
  • Cannes: The city where the famous film festival takes place every year. Don’t miss: The walk on the famous “Croisette”! and the visit of Lerins islands
  • The Principality of Monaco: Monaco , famous for it’s luxury lifestyle! To see: The palace , located on Le Rocher, the Casino de Monte-Carlo , the Oceanographic Museum and if you like beautiful cars, Prince Rainier III old car collection. You can read my guide about Monaco here: The 25 best things to do in Monaco
  • Beautiful villages to visit around Nice: Peille , Saint Agnès (highest perched village on the coast), Coaraze and its sundials, and the ruins of Châteauneuf-Villevieille .
  • Enjoy a boat trip to admire Nice and the bay of Villefranche from the sea. You need to book it here!
  • The wineries around Nice, where you can taste excellent wines of the PACA region. You will find the list of all the wineries offering visits near Nice by clicking here!

If you want to discover the best of the French Riviera in one day such as Eze, Monaco, Antibes and Cannes , you can opt for an organized day trip.

It needs to be booked my clicking here:

There are of course many other things to do around Nice, this being a non-exhaustive list, which should nonetheless keep you busy for a good week.

Bay of Villefranche

If you only have one day to visit Nice , I recommend that you take a walk around the area, with the itinerary I describe at #12 of this top. Nice is not very big, so a walking tour is clearly the best way to discover the city!

And if you don’t want to walk all day, you can in the afternoon:

  • Go to the beach
  • Visit some museums in the city centre , such as the MAMAC, the Palais Lascaris or the photo museum, very close to each other.
  • If you choose to visit museums, don’t miss the Masséna Museum in the morning, as you will pass by!

No matter which itinerary you choose, go to the Castle Hill at the end of the day, you won’t regret it, it’s a must see in Nice.

In 2 days in Nice , you will have the time to visit the surroundings! In addition to the first day described above, here is one of my favorite itinerary, very little known to tourists:

  • Start in the morning with the coastal path ( #11 ), which goes from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer . It’s a really beautiful stroll by the water!
  • Visit the Villefranche old town , its port, its pretty beach, the magnificent St-Elmo citadel and its free mini-museums.
  • As it will certainly be lunchtime, you can eat in one of the seaside restaurants or in the old town.
  • Then, I recommend that you climb up the hill of Mont Boron , a very beautiful pine forest with many amazing viewpoints on Nice on one side, and on the bay of Villefranche on the other.
  • From Villefranche-sur-Mer , start by going to  l’escalier de verre ( Google map link – Glass stairs, it’s just a name, it’s not made of glass!), about 15 minutes walk.
  • Then go to the Fort of Mont Alban , for the great view over the bay of Villefranche, then turn back to the southern part of Mont Boron, which overlooks Nice.
  • To return to Nice , you can walk down (30 to 45 minutes) or take bus 30 from the Plateau du Mont Boron.

To easily plan your 2 days in Nice, you should read my dedicated article: The best 2-day itinerary in Nice.

To be done in addition to the 2 previous days. Spending 3 days in Nice is having time to make another unforgettable excursion in the surroundings: a superb itinerary that will take you from Eze village to Monaco , passing by Menton . Make sure you have good shoes, as the paths are quite rocky.

  • First, take the bus 82 from Nice to Eze village.
  • Visit this magnificent perched village and the exotic garden of Eze
  • To go back down to sea level, take the Nietzsche Trail , which offers a magnificent view of the sea and surrounding cities. It will take you to Eze Beach.
  • Then take the bus number 100 of the “lignes d’Azur” to Menton.
  • Visit the old town , and grab something to eat!
  • Then, walk around Cap Martin along the seaside trail.
  • Continue with the Promenade Le Corbusier , which will take you from Roquebrune to Monaco
  • Visit Monaco , and to finish, take bus number 100 from Monaco bus station to go back to Nice.

Another busy day around Nice!

You have a week in Nice ? You’re really lucky! You will be able to visit a lot of things around Nice , and discover the majority of the places presented in this guide. In addition to the previous days, here is an itinerary:

Day 4: to avoid the impression of running everywhere, make this day a little more tranquil: In the morning, head to the Hill of Cimiez with its park and museums ( #7 ). For the afternoon, you can go to the beach in Nice , stroll again in Nice Old Town, have a drink on the Cours Saleya or shop on Avenue Jean Medecin .

Day 5 : let’s go to Antibes with the bus 200 or by train from Nice, to see the Fort Carré, the old town and the Cap d’ Antibes . To mix once again with swimming for a successful day!

Day 6: a day trip to Cannes (bus 200 or train), coupled with a boat expedition on the Lérins islands.

Day 7: take the 15 bus from Nice to Saint-jean-Cap-Ferrat , do a tour of the Cap (in part or in full) and, most important, relax in one of the small coves, the beach of Passable or the one of Les Fosses.

This itinerary of one week on the French Riviera is the best way to get a good overview of the region!

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Paloma Beach

  • Hôtel Ozz by Happyculture : Located about 15 minutes from the beach on foot. Nice place, very friendly staff, great location and comfortable beds. Only 20€ per night in dormitory. Double room at 55€. This is the best hostel for a budget stay in Nice!
  • Hôtel Brice Garden : Located in the hear of Nice, 5 minutes walk from the beach and Promenade des Anglais. Very well furnished and clean room from 80€ per night. Excellent value for money. Friendly and welcoming staff. The best value hotel if you want to stay in the city center! Needs to be booked as soon as possible, lots of demand.
  • Hôtel le Saint Paul : Located 50 meters from the Nice harbor, in a quiet area, with an amazing sea view. Large bright room from 95€ per night, buffet breakfast for 12€. Plus: free private parking. My favorite in Nice!
  • Hôtel Le Royal Promenade des Anglais : Located right on the Promenade des Anglais in a historic building. Prestigious room decorated in a classic style, very bright, from 135€ per night, breakfast at 15€.
  • Hôtel Negresco: Located on the Promenade des Anglais, this exceptional hotel is simply the best in Nice. The rooms are magnificent, the view is stunning, the staff is amazing and the restaurant is one of the best in town. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Nice!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Nice, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Nice? 😊

I have made for you a tourist map of Nice , listing all the must see attractions and activities as well as the 2 itineraries I talked about. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow on it.

You’re going to travel to Nice? What do you plan to visit?

France travel Guides

  • Buy the Lonely Planet France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the Rick Steves France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all our articles about France: All Voyage Tips articles about France are listed here. French Riviera

  • French Riviera: Top 25 best places to visit and activities
  • Itinerary: 1 Week in French Riviera – the definitive guide for your 7-8 days trip
  • Antibes: Top 20 best places to visit
  • Cannes: The 20 best things to do and activities
  • Monaco: 25 Best places to visit
  • Nice: 15 things you must do and see

Other French Cities

  • Annecy: 12 things to do and see
  • Honfleur: Top 15 things to discover
  • La Rochelle: Top 15 things to do and must-see attractions
  • Lyon: 21 Best things to do
  • Marseille: Top 33 best things to do and see
  • Nantes: The 15 best things to do
  • Reims: Top 15 things to do and see
  • Rennes: The 15 things you must do!
  • Strasbourg: The 25 must-see attractions

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

must visit places in nice france

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 72 comments.

DortB

I am planning to go to France in June and I think I will spend a few days in Nice.

It’s funny how I can really tell you love your hometown when reading this article.

By the way, do you think it’s worth spending a few days in Cannes too?

Vincent

Ahahahah yes, I love my hometown, Nice is a very beautiful city for sure. For Cannes, honestly it’s not worth it, there is nothing to do except a bit of (expensive) shopping there. There are much more beautiful places to see around Nice. If you would like to visit a “luxury” city, I would rather recommend Monaco, it’s a lot more interesting! When you will be around Nice, I strongly recommand you to visit Villefranche sur Mer, Saint jean Cap Ferrat, Eze village, Menton and Antibes. They are really the Top 5 places you shouldn’t miss on the French Riviera!

Simone

My boyfriend and I are going to Nice in May (19-22). We have 4 whole days, but two of them is on public holidays. What would you recommend to do these days? So far we’ve planned the coast walk to Villefrance-sur-mer/Mont Boron and we also want to visit Monaco, but we haven’t decided which days we do what. So what should we plan for the two days 20/21st, where most shops are closed?

Best regards Simone

Hello Simone,

For your trip to Nice, i suggest you the following visit planning: (random days order)

1) the Villefranche/Mont Boron day. Can be done during the public holidays, the shops in Villefranche sur mer aren’t super interesting. 2) the problem is this second day where the shops are closed. You can go to Saint Jean Cap Ferrat for a walk along the see, grab some sandwiches (in Nice before going, there is not much there) and eat the in a cove. Another option is to go to Italy, as the 21st of april is a working day there. There are direct trains to Ventimiglia, it takes less than 1h. you can also go to San Remo, a bit bigger city. you will need to change train, takes around 1h30 total. Just be careful, in Italy, shops are usually closed from 12h30 to 16h (nap time!) 3) if you like hiking, you should go to Eze village by bus, and then from up there you can go down all the way to monaco. It is a superb small hike (going down and flat, easy), and a great way to make the most out of your day. Try to leave Nice not too late (around 9am is fine) 4) 1 day in Nice to visit the city by foot, do some shopping etc…

Let me know if you need more info for your stay in Nice!

Mitali Arora

Hey.. My fiancé and I are planning our honeymoon in Nice end of November and starting December for 4 days.. and would like to understand if it would be a good time to visit the town and would it be possible to do day trips at that time of the year. We do not mind the cold weather.. 🙂 Btw, your article is very interesting and full of insights.. 🙂

I am glad my article about Nice is helping you to plan your trip!

You can visit Nice and the towns around at any time of the year, the weather in this area is one of the best in France.

End of November/December is still really enjoyable, especially if you get a few sunny days (it’s not too cold like january/february). You can do everything I mentionned in this article without problem! (Just no swimming, unless you are warriors :p)

Enjoy your honeymoon!

Bee

Nice article. Im planning to visit Nice next month.

Just a question, walking around old town, is it stroller friendly? My baby is 3months old 🙂

Yes, Nice old town is 100% stroller friendly. There are no mandatory stairs, you can go everywhere by just walking in the alleys. In addition, the ground is flat, (no cobblestones), so it is very easy to navigate with a stroller or a wheelchair.

Enjoy your stay in Nice!

Gohar

Thanks for the very nice article.

Me and my boyfriend are planning a one week visit to Nice and surrounding areas in December (21st-28th). I want to ask you about the Christmas traditions and also for the days of 24,25 and 26th is everything closed? What do you suggest to do during those days?

In Nice, there is a (quite small) Christmas market that takes place every year on the Place Massena. The illuminations in the street at nights are also quite nice!

The only official holiday is on the 25th of December, the other days, everything should be open, so no problem for this.

On the 25th, you should probably opt for a walk, for example you can take the bus #14 and go to the Mont Boron and Mont Alban fort ( #13 of this guide). You will love the view from there! You can spend around 2 hours up there, and then if you feel like it, go back to Nice on foot. It just goes down so it’s pretty easy.

Carolyn Norris

Hi thinking of visiting Nice and the surrounding area at the very end of March next year. Not expecting beach weather but would it be pleasant enough for walking around?

Hello Carolyn,

At the end of March, you have good chances to have a nice weather in Nice. Not super hot (probably around 15-17°C during the day), but good enough for walking around and enjoying the French Riviera.

If you have any other questions about your stay in Nice, don’t hesitate 🙂

Mina

Hi! We are planning to be in Nice in April 16 and after that we going to Monaco for a cruise on April 20 . Will you please give us your recommendations how to spend this time ? rent a car or not?

Renting a car isn’t mandatory in Nice as public transportation is pretty good in the French Riviera. You can easily go to every place I have mentioned in this guide by bus or train.

For your stay in Nice, you should do the activities I mentioned: in the “Visit Nice in 1, 2 or 3 days” part of the article. If you don’t want to walk too much, you can also take the bus. From Nice:

– Bus #82 to go to Eze Village – Bus #100 to go to Villefranche Sur Mer – Bus #14 to go to the Mont Boron – Bus #200 to go to Antibes (or train if you prefer, it’s faster)

In addition to the visit of Nice, these are really the 4 best places to see around.

jane

Hello, I am going to Nice end of May 2019 for 4 days. it will be 4 adults. I red all your recomendations, its very well informative. I prefer to have a private guid with a mini van for 2 days to see some places. Do you know anyone or how and where to find this option.

Hello Jane,

The best way to find a private guide to visit Nice and the French Riviera is to ask your hotel. They usually know drivers and/or guides and can recommend you someone.

Have a great trip!

Irina

Hello Vincent,

Hope you’re well!

I’m surprising my boyfriend and taking him to Nice for the weekend this Friday for his birthday (my birthday is also next week, so two birds with one stone!) and just wanted to say what a lovely article with great inspiring ideas and full of information. Love the map as well! Wish I could download it as a PDF on my phone though. I can’t wait to explore the beautiful places! Fingers crossed it doesn’t rain!

Many thanks again!

Hello Irina,

I am great thanks, and you?

I am really glad my Nice city guide is helping you to plan your trip in and around the city.

If you have any specific question, don’t hesitate, I will gladly help you.

Have a great day!

Jay

I’m going for 3 days is it best to visit both Cannes and Monaco or just one of them and can you get around without knowing any french.

There isn’t much to do in Cannes except walking on “La Croisette” next to the sea. And you can do the same in Nice on “La promenade des Anglais”.

So it will be better to visit Nice and maybe do a day trip east of Nice, to Monaco and Menton (the old town of Menton is very nice).

Don’t worry if you don’t speak French: the hotels staff always speak English and can help you to organize your day trips, telling you which bus to take and where to take it.

As it’s quite touristic city, you shouldn’t have too much trouble to find an English speaking person in the street neither!

If you have more questions about your trip to Nice and the French Riviera, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Mike

this list of things to do in Nice is wonderful and well written from the heart. I’m excited that a few of us are going to be there late May. Your article is Magnifique.

I am glad you like my article about Nice and find it useful!

If you have any specific question, don’t hesitate to ask me. Enjoy your stay in Nice!

Richard

Hi Vincent,

Great Page! I will use your weekly guide.

I have a question on buses and trains. I may get a bus or train to visit Cannes and Monaco. How do the tickets work?

Thanks for your help.

Hi Richard,

For the bus tickets, you can buy them directly in the bus. No matter where you go, it’s 1.50 euros one way.

When going to Monaco with the bus, the scenery is really nice, so try to sit on the right side of the bus if you can 🙂

About train tickets, you can get them at the automatic machines at the train station. Else, you can also book them online in advance on Oui Sncf , the official french railways website.

Enjoy your trip in Nice and around the french Riviera!

Akash

Thanks Vincent Must say that its pretty good article. Liked the way everything is described. I am sure you love your city. Same as we, so we plan to visit the French Riviera for 4 full days at end of June.

We are family of 4 with 2 adults and 2 young kids (One is 6 yrs and another 10 months baby). Wanted to check some suggestions for family friendly places to see and things to do. and also if will there be problems with stroller ? We are staying at Nice and plan to visit Nice and the nearby places these 4 days. Can you plz suggest a good itinerary?

Many thanks in advance.

I am glad you found this article about Nice useful!

You can really go everywhere in town with your family, even in the old town, there is no stairs, so it’s quite stroller friendly 🙂

For the itinerary with your family, you can do the following (adapted for young kids compared to the one in the article, no walking on non-stroller friendly paths)

– Day 1: Follow the “visit Nice on Foot” itinerary suggested in the article ( here ). You can go up to Garibaldi square, or if you are motivated, also go on the harbor up to Coco beach.

If you decide to go up to Coco beach, you can do it at the kid’s pace, and maybe take bus 38 to come back to city center, if the kids are tired. Visiting Nice on foot is the only way to visit the heart of the city, as it’s quite small!

You can go to the Castle Hill around 3 or 4pm, there is an elevator that will take you up there. It’s located in “Rue des ponchettes”.

– Day 2: Go to Menton with the bus #100 or train (faster). Visit the old town, then take bus #100 to Monaco. Visit Monaco Take Bus #100 or train to get back to Nice. If you still have the time, you can stop by Villefranche sur Mer, but the old town is quite steep and it’s stairs only.

You should take the bus for at least 1 way, as the #100 ride offers a quite nice view over the French riviera coast.

– Day 3: I would do something more relaxing, as “day 2” was a big one. For example, go back in the old town, enjoy an ice cream, take bus #14 to Mont Boron and walk around in the pine forest, up to the “Fort du Mont Alban”. It’s a great viewpoint!

– Day 4: Take the bus #200 or the train (a lot faster – recommended) to Cannes. Visit the “Croisette” and maybe take the boat to Lerins islands! If you don’t take the boat, you can then take the train to Antibes to visit the old town or enjoy a good lunch in one of the numerous restaurants located there. You can also skip Cannes and head directly to Antibes from Nice, as you prefer!

Enjoy your stay in Nice and its surroundings 🙂

Jane

Love the site, so much useful information!

We’re a couple travelling to the Provence area in September 2019 and we really want to visit Nice and the Riviera whilst we’re here. We’re hiring a car for around Provence and I wondered if you had any tips for safe parking in Nice please? We’re happy to park at a smaller town and travel in by train or bus but we’re not sure of the options.

Do you have any advice please?

Thanks Jane

I am glad my blog helps you to plan your trip in Nice and the French Riviera!

For safe parking, you have a few underground parkings in Nice city center, they are however a bit expensive (25 euros per day or 90 euros for 5 days). You can find the rates and parking location on this website . It’s unfortunately all in French, but the cheapest and most central are Corvesy and Palais Massena, the 2 firsts of the list.

If you are looking for a relatively cheap option to leave your car for a few days (about 10-12 euros per day), your best bet is to go to the “low cost” parking of the airport. From there, you can take the tram to reach Nice city center easily.

You can click here (website in English) to have a look and book it. It needs to be booked in advance.

Enjoy your trip!

Thanks so much for your helpful suggestions!

Kind regards Jane

Chelsea Smith

Hi, thank you very much for your suggestions. I would just like to point out that Castle Hill closes before the sunset (about an hour or more before) so it is not possible to view the sunset from the top. Just thought I would let you know so you can edit your post 🙂

Audrey Bishop

Yes thank you for this comment! My girlfriend and I were traveling in Nice for 5 days. This was going to be the highlight of our trip and we spent all day awaiting the sunset and the perfect moment to hike up. However, upon arrival, we were told it was closed at 8:00 as it does every night, and the sunset does not occur before 9:00 at least!! What a disappointment!!

Yes, that’s right, the Castle Hill closes too early in summer to be able to enjoy the sunset.

As it’s not possible to watch the sunset from there all year round, I have edited the post to include the opening hours and the months when it can be done. It will be clearer now 🙂

Umberto

I just wanted to thank you for this fantastic article. I used it consistently through my 4 days holiday in Nice. It was super useful, informative and spot on. Thanks again! 🙂

Hi Umberto,

Thank you for taking the time to post this kind comment. I am glad my article about Nice helped you during your stay in Nice! And I am also very happy you had a good time.

Maybe see you soon on the blog for another destination 🙂

Linda Adams

What a lovely article about a beautiful city.

My husband Tony and I fell in love with Nice on our first visit in 2007 and have been very lucky to visit 2-3 times a year since.

We will soon be back in Nice for our 5th of 6 trips this year. I have to say though, I don’t get Monaco, it is far too crowded for us.

We have visited all the places you have mentioned and some you have not. We love to get on a bus and visit the hilltop villages such as Vence, Ste. Jeannet and Biot.

Thank you for a lovely article.

Bonne chance, A bientot Nice

Hello Linda,

Thank you for your kind comment!

I am really glad you enjoy traveling to Nice and the French Riviera, it’s a very nice place for sure, and there is a lot to discover around the city.

The small villages you talk about are very beautiful, and there are many in the region. The bus network is pretty good there, so that’s one more reason to go explore Nice surroundings.

Enjoy your stay and I wish you to discover many hidden places!

Jason benfield

Hi my wife and I are going to nice the end of the month, how easy is it to get on the tram from cote d Azur to rue de belgique

Hello Jason,

I am not 100% sure, but I think you are talking about going from Nice Cote d’Azur airport to rue de Belgique?

In that case, as the “rue de Belgique” is located just a few meters away from the SNCF train station, you have 2 solutions:

1 – Take the tram line 2 at the airport, get out at “Jean Médecin” station and go to rue de Belgique on foot (about 10 minutes walk) 2 – Take the tram line 2 at the airport, get out at “Jean Médecin” station and take tram line 2 to “Gare Thiers” (1 stop, will make you save maybe 5 minutes waking). You tram ticket is valid for 74 minutes, so you can take both trams with just 1 ticket.

Veronika Nikolova

Hello, first congrats on this amazing blog . I know that writing something like this is not easy every time 🙂 I am going in Nice this month and following your blog and some other things on the internet i made this plan: 26.12.19 Old Town of Nice -cours Saleya -courthouse Square -rossetti square – Saint Reparata Cathedral+ ice ceam at Azzuro  -the saint Francis square Castle Hill (the castle Hill Park) with views from: -at the top – childrens playground area -Bellanda Tower -Belvedere near the exit -Cascare du Chateau – waterfall On the way back – castle cementery Working time 8:30-18 h 27.12.19 Cimiez neigboirhood: -cimiez arena park+cimiez arenas -cimiez monastery gardens -cimiez archaeological museum -Matisse museum 28.12.19 -Modern art musum -Palais Lascaris -Photogpraphy museum -Massena museum -Musee des Beaux – Promnande des Anglais – with rent a bike  + Jardin Albert 1 + promenande du Paillon + Place Massena 29.12.19 Eze Monaco + Monte carlo

30.12.19 Observatory Mont Boron Notre Dame de Nice Ortodox church

D you think it is possible to do this? Or i should change something? Thank you, and again very nice blog 🙂

Hello Veronika,

Yes, your itinerary seems perfect, you can do it!

However I prefer to warn you that it will be quite busy, especially for the 28/12 and also 30/12 if you don’t have a car.

I would just change a small thing: while you will be in the old town on the 26/12, you might want to visit Palais Lascaris on that day, it order to make 28/12 a bit less busy.

In your itinerary, maybe you wanted to put all the museums in a 24h timeframe in order to benefit from the 10 euros 24h Museum Pass? If it’s the case, i am afraid it will unfortunately be a bit too short to do all you mentionned, and you will have to take the 7 days all Nice museum Pass anyway (20 euros).

Enjoy your trip to Nice, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

Yes i was thinking the same about the pass (that it will be better with the weekly one) and it is okey it is not a big difference ! Thank you very much again 🙂 Have a nice Chrtismas Holidays 🙂 Greetings from Bulgaria 🙂

You’re welcome!

Thanks and enjoy your Christmas holidays too 🙂

Aleks

Thanks for taking the time to write this! Very helpful article. I am going to Nice for a week 29th March – 5th April.

I wanted to ask if you think Saint Tropez is worth a day-trip , since it will be off-season so was thinking that it is better to use the time for places like Menton etc.

Also, is there a weekly bus pass or I would have to buy tickets each time in the bus?

Hope you have a great holidays 🙂

Hello Aleks,

Thanks! I’m glad my blog is helping you to plan your trip to Nice.

Yes, I think it’s better to visit Menton, Eze, Monaco etc… Saint-Tropez is a bit too far for a day trip and there is not so much things to do.

For the bus, you can buy a weekly pass for about 15 euros. You will get unlimited bus and tramways rides for 7 days. You can buy it at any tram station.

Have a great stay in Nice!

Michelle P.

My husband and I are visiting in late April. It’s our first trip to Europe and unfortunately we are only going to have a half day in Nice when we arrive and one more half day in Nice right before we leave to go back to the states.

What is the best way for us to maximize our time here?

Thanks in advance for your time!

Hello Michelle,

If you only have 2 times half a day to visit Nice, I would suggest you to do the following:

– First half day: Visit the old town (and try some local specialties!), Massena Square and take a stroll on the Promenade des Anglais. As the castle Hill closes at 8 pm in April, you can also go there for 1 hour or so before closing time, as the view is really great! – For your second half day, it will depend on what you enjoy doing: – Option 1: If you have a car (or check the #14 bus schedule carefully, as there aren’t many), and want to walk a bit in the nature and enjoy great views over Nice and Villefranche sur Mer, you should go to the Mont Boron, up to the “Mount Alban Fort” – Option 2: You can spend more time in the city, doing a bit of shopping and stroll around the port, up to “Coco beach”.

Enjoy your trip to Nice!

Andreas jochim

My family are booked to go to nice 19/7/20 for 1 week, staying air band b in old town. We are wondering whether to come or not given COVID-19. Is much open? Do you have to wear mask everywhere? Is public transport running as normal? thank you Andreas

Hello Andreas,

All the museums and tourist sites have reopened in Nice. Most of the bars, restaurants and shops have also reopened.

You will need to wear a mask in public transport, shops and museums.

Public transports will be using their normal summer schedule from the first of July.

That’s the plan for now, however, no one knows how it will evolve in a few weeks time.

Heena Rangwani

What a great post. I’m going to use it to enjoy my visit to Nice. Thank you for your effort!

Diana

Hello! Thanks for such an informative article! I am coming on 02.06.21 and have not really understood whether it is possible to go to Monaco now and, if so, under what conditions. Do travel restrictions in France also apply to tourists? Is there anything important I could definitely know when traveling to Nice?

Hello Diana,

Thanks! I am glad my article is helping you to plan your visit to Nice!

If you want to go to Monaco during your stay, here are the COVID related things you should know (at the moment): – For all travel to Monaco from France, it’s mandatory to present a negative PCR test less than 72 hours old. – Non-residents are not allowed to enter restaurants in Monaco.

In Nice and in Monaco: – A 9pm to 6am curfew is in place – Wearing a mask is mandatory in public spaces, both indoors and outdoors, on public transport and in shops.

Raj

Hope you are doing very well.

I am planning for 4.5 days trip to Nice during the second week of July. I have planned out like below. Could you please suggest if this is possible to cover.

Also, Could you please provide your guidance regarding the recent travel restrictions to Nice, Cannes, Monaco etc.

Do you think taking a trip to Monaco is possible if I am completely vaccinated.?

– Nice Castle Hill – The Promenade des Anglais – Discover the Old Town of Nice – Nice Russian Orthodox Cathedral

– Start in the morning with the coastal path , which goes from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer. Take bus number 100 from Nice harbor to the “English hospital” stop. Do the coastal walk To get back to Nice, take bus 15 or 100 in Villefranche sur Mer.

– Visit the Villefranche old town – Visit the hill of Mont Boron, – From Villefranche-sur-Mer, start by going to l’escalier de verre – Then go to the Fort of Mont Alban, for the great view over the bay of Villefranche, – To return to Nice, take bus 30 from the Plateau du Mont Boron

– First, take the bus 82 from Nice to Eze village. – Visit this magnificent perched village and the exotic garden of Eze – To go back down to sea level, take the Nietzsche Trail, which offers a magnificent view of the sea and surrounding cities. It will take you to Eze Beach. – Then take the bus number 100 of the “lignes d’Azur” to Menton. – Visit the old town – Then, walk around Cap Martin along the seaside trail. – Continue with the Promenade Le Corbusier, which will take you from Roquebrune to Monaco. We can also take bus #100 to Monaco – Visit Monaco, take bus number 100 from Monaco bus station to go back to Nice.

Day 4: – a day trip to Cannes (bus 200 or train), coupled with a boat expedition on the Lérins islands.Visit the “Croisette” and maybe take the boat to Lerins islands! – take the train to Antibes to visit the old town – take the 15 bus from Nice to Saint-jean-Cap-Ferrat,

Awaiting your response.

Warm regards, Raj

Hope you’re doing well too!

For your 4-5 days trip to Nice, it’s possible to do day 1, 2 and 3.

For Day 3, keep in mind that it’s a long day: you will need to take the bus to Eze around 8h30-9h in the morning. The full day as detailed in this guide is about 20km walking in total. As you mentioned, if you want to walk less (8-10km in the day I would say), you can take the bus #100 from Menton to Monaco instead of walking around Cap Martin and taking the Promenade Le Corbusier.

For Day 4, it’s not really possible to do all this in a day, because Cannes and Antibes are located West of Nice while Saint-jean-Cap-Ferrat is on located East of the city.

In my opinion, you should go to Cannes, visit the city and do the boat trip to the Lérins island. If you are not too tired, you can stop by Antibes in the evening and maybe have diner there before returning to Nice (by train probably).

For Saint-jean-Cap-Ferrat, you should plan another day!

About the Covid restrictions, to go to France (Nice has the same as the rest of France at the moment), it will depend on the country you come from. For Monaco, even if you are vaccinated, I think you will need a PCR test unfortunately, so that’s not very convenient.

In That case, you might want to do Eze and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat on day 3!

Enjoy your trip to Nice and the surroundings,

Thank you for your quick response and all your valuable suggestion. Just to mention, I am a french resident living in Paris and my starting point is Paris itself. Also, I am vaccinated in France and have also completed 15 days after the second shot of the vaccine.

So, for Monaco, Do I still need a RT PCR before travelling. Please suggest.

Warm Regards, Raj

If you’re a French resident, that’s perfect then, no problem to come to Nice (at least for the moment!)

For Monaco, I have checked again and 2 websites are saying contradictory things:

The French government website stipulates that you need a PCR test and doesn’t mention vaccination: French Government website Monaco government website says that you don’t need a PCR test if you are fully vaccinated: Monaco Government website

I believe the French gov website isn’t up to date!

Enjoy your trip 🙂

Thank you so much for providing all the details. It was indeed very helpful. 🙂

Regards, Raj

Mariam

Hello Vincent, Thank you for your article, it is super helpful. I will be going to nice and I know that it is not very famous for sandy beaches, but if I am going to chose a beach for laying down and swimming a bit in nice or its outskirts, what would be your recommendations ( not in Cannes please, because this will be another trip following Nice’s). Thank youuuuu, Mariam

Hello Mariam,

I am glad my article about Nice is helping you to plan your stay!

If you want to go to the beach, the closest to Nice that is relatively nice is “Marinières beach”, located in Villefranche sur Mer.

You can take bus #100 to get there and stop at Villefranch sur Mer main bus stop. You will then need to cross Villefranche old town on foot, it’s pretty nice even if quite steep when going back up.

Another option is to take the train, that stops just above the beach.

Enjoy your beach day!

Tze Ling Wong

Hi Vincent, I’m so glad to find your website and it’s full of info. I’m planning to travel to Nice in early October this year and I have the following questions. I will be grateful if you could give me a bit of advice.

1). Is it safe for a woman to go around in Nice especially in the evening? 2). Where will be the best area to stay for convenience , like buses , walking distance for major places? 3). Is it recommended to take a French Riviera one day trip?

Many thanks and bonne journée .

Thanks, I am really glad my website is helping you to plan your stay in Nice!

1) Yes, it’s safe, especially in the touristy areas. Just like in all big cities, be careful for pickpockets and don’t leave your stuff unattended (Yes, even on the beach if you have something valuable). Also, if possible, avoid the district around the train station at night. 2) Around Place Massena is the best for sure. If you give me your budget per night and the dates of your stay, I can try to find you an hotel that will suit your needs. 3) If it’s your first time on the French Riviera and have a tight schedule, that trip ( click here to see it and book it ) is a great option to see a maximum of places!

Have a great day too and let me know if you need more help!

Morning Vincent,

Thanks for the reply and info. I am planning to be in Nice between 11/10-15/10/2021. So, I have at least full three days in Nice. Do you think I will have enough time to do the full day boat trip? I would really like to though. My budget is up to 60euros per night. I will be taking a train from Beziers to Nice. So, would like to know is it just one train station in Nice?

Look forward to hearing from you.

Regards Jennifer Wong

Hello Jennifer,

1) I am not sure about which boat trip you are talking about, because the French Riviera day trip I mentioned is not by boat. You can plan 2 days in Nice and 1 day for the French Riviera excursion yep!

2) I have found a few hotels that might fit your budget. They are located near the city center, so you can visit on foot or to get around by tram/bus. You can click on the links for details and prices, and see if it’s what you want: – Hotel Ozz by Happyculture – It’s a hostel with dorm beds but it’s cheap and it’s the best hostel in Nice – EasyHotel Nice Palais des Congrès – Old Town – Trocadero – Hotel 66 Nice – Hotel Esprit d’Azur

3) From Béziers, the train stops at Nice-Ville Gare Thiers which is the main train station.

Enjoy your stay!

Maria Oliveira

I’m visiting Cote D’Azur the next 4 days. I’ll stay 3 night in Nice and 1 night in Marselhe. I’m going with my husband and 2 couples more. Could you recomend me some nice restaurants in Nice, to have dinner? Our budget is around 40/45 eur p/person.

Hello Maria,

Please excuse me for my late reply, your comment was in the spam folder and I just saw it today.

I know it’s too late but I hope you had a great stay in Nice and found good restaurants.

Kathryn

Salut Vincent, Thank you for this really interesting and clear article! We’re looking to visit Nice for a week in late November for my birthday and wondered if you could recommend any romantic restaurants in the area? Thank you! Kathryn

Hi Kathryn,

You’re welcome, I am glad my article is helping you to plan your stay in Nice! For romantic restaurants, I would suggest:

– Having a drink at “Le Plongeoir” and then dining at “La Réserve”, the restaurant just next to Le Plongeoir. – La Chèvre d’Or, in Eze – 2 Michelin stars, one of the best gastronomic restaurant of the French Riviera – Le Mayssa Beach, in Villefranche sur Mer – Le Boudoir (Nice) if you like truffles – Jan (Nice) – 1 Michelin star restaurant located on the port of Nice

Enjoy your stay and have a nice birthday!

Thanks again Vincent, we will definitely be looking at these!

Vasha

Hi there, love how much thought that has been put into this article! I am coming for the first time to France on 19th april, Was wondering if you have any recommendations are on where to get the best local dishes? I see that only Azzurro was mentioned for the ice cream but do you have recommendations for the best places to try socca, etc ? Thank you ♡

Thank you! To taste the best specialities of Nice, I recommend you: – For the Socca: “Chez Theresa” in the old town – Address: 28 rue droite. – For the pissaladière: “Lou Pelandroun” – Address: 4 Boulevard Joseph Garnier. The best pissaladière ever, with the real “Nissart” dough. I hope it will be open when you go to Nice because for the moment they are closed for renovation. – For the dishes (panisses, daube niçoise…): “L’Acchiardo” in the old town. Address: 38 rue droite. You really need to book in advance for this one.

Thank u so much!! I have a couple more questions if you have the time!

I plan to do the eze, menton, monaco day trip. And for monaco i definitely want to take our time there. (Oceanographic museum, monte carlo casino, palace, f1, etc) So do you have any idea to roughly how much time to spend in Eze and how much time to spend in Menton ? We will take buses in between to save time. Also is there anything in particular in both towns that is A MUST SEE before we go to Monaco? Just so I can make sure we dont miss it!

I also would like to ask if you have any knowledge on if we will need anything extra to enter Monaco. We are fully vaccinated with booster shots too. It’s okay if you dont know, I just wanted to ask just in case for some reason you knew 😅😂

Also is it worth visiting the notre dame cathedral? 🙂

Haha sorry for all the questions!

Hello Vasha,

You can spend about 1 hour in Eze village: walking through the tiny historical centre and visiting the exotic garden. If you want to visit the Fragornard perfume factory, allow another half hour.

In Menton, you can walk around the old town to see the Basilica of Saint-Michel, the Halles market and the Herbin jam factory. It’s quite small too so an hour is enough, maybe 2 hours if you plan to eat there.

To enter Monaco, no need for anything special if you’re vaccinated. And for the cathedral: the entrance is free and it the visit just takes 5 minutes so you can go and see it quickly.

Enjoy your stay on the French Riviera!

Thank you so much Vincent! Take care ♡!

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Explore the Riviera

27 best things to do in nice, france.

nice 1 (1)

Looking for the best things to do in Nice? Well, you are definitely at the right place. (:

I have been living in Nice for over a year and during my time here, I have had the pleasure to explore the city and its surroundings quite well.

In this guide, you will find a comprehensive list of activities in the beautiful city of Nice.

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera. You can also get a custom itinerary made by me here or check out this travel guide with all of my favorite addresses in Nice.

builing in nice france (1)

35 Best things to do in Nice, France

1- walk along promenade des anglais.

The iconic Promenade des Anglais should be the first stop on any visit to Nice. Go for a walk, take in the beautiful sea views, and then stop for a glass of wine at one of my favorite beach clubs in Nice.

✈️ Need help planning your trip to the French Riviera?

Make the most out of your trip with a personalized itinerary made just for you or book a travel consultation where I will answer any questions you might have.

2- Visit Monaco

monaco 3

The Principality of Monaco, located only a short train journey from Nice on the French Riviera, is definitely worth visiting on a day trip from Nice.

Despite its status as the world’s second-smallest country, Monaco has a lot to offer, from amazing restaurants to interesting cultural activities.

3- Enjoy some delicious Niçoise food

Niçoise cuisine is one of the most famous regional cuisines in France, and it’s a must-try when visiting Nice. From socca, ratatouille, pissaladiere, and other specialties, you can find some of the best dishes here.

For an authentic experience, head to one of the city’s many traditional restaurants like Chez Pipo, La Merenda, and Le Bistrot.

You can also visit the local markets to sample some of the freshest ingredients used in Niçoise cooking or go on a food walking tour (which we highly recommend!).

4- Visit Gordes du Verdon and the lavender fields

gorges du verdon (2)

Exploring the Provence region, one cannot overlook the enchanting experience of visiting the Gorges du Verdon and the surrounding lavender fields.

Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers activities ranging from kayaking and hiking to simply soaking in the serene beauty of nature.

A short distance from the gorges, the lavender fields of Provence are also a sight to behold. Blooming from June to August, these vibrant fields paint the countryside in shades of purple.

5- Enjoy a day out on a boat

Enjoying a day out on a boat is another activity you should really prioritize on a trip to the French Riviera. You can read about my favorite boat tours from Nice here , or book one of my favorites:

  • Private Boat Tour on a Luxury Day Cruiser
  • Private Boat Tour on the Côte d’Azur (Nice – Monaco or Nice – Cannes)
  • Boat tour from Nice to Villefranche

⛱️ Looking for the best places to eat, stay, and explore in Nice?

White Tablet and Template Mockup Instagram Post 9 1

In my Nice Travel Guide , you will find all the best addresses, unique day trips, restaurants, hotels, and hidden gems in Nice. Planning your trip to the South of France has never been easier ❤️

6- Explore the region’s wineries

ice wine from provence

Nice is surrounded by some of France’s best wineries. Take a day trip to explore one of the vineyards and learn about the local wine-making process.

You can read about my favorite wine tours from Nice here.

7- Contemplate art and enjoy the garden at Musée Chagall

Although the Musée Chagal is undoubtedly incredible (it contains an impressive collection of works of art by famous artist Marc Chagall), it’s not just the permanent collection that makes this museum worth a visit.

The grounds themselves are quite beautiful, with a tranquil garden space and a wonderful cafe (which is one of our absolute favorites in Nice !).

8- Visit Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice

For one of the best views over Nice and its surroundings, head up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château).

This hilltop landmark offers breathtaking views of the city port, Vieux Nice, and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s also a great place to exercise or have a scenic picnic.

9- Explore the Cote d’Azur on a day trip

staircase in menton 1 (1)

The French Riviera (also known as the Cote d’Azur) is one of the most beautiful regions in France. and thankfully the city of Nice is heaven when it comes to day trips.

There are plenty of places to explore nearby, including the charming cities of Cannes , Éze , Monaco , Antibes and Saint-Tropez .

10- Train Experience Through The Alps and Baroque Route

Looking for an epic day trip?

Then go on a unique train journey through the breathtaking Alps and Baroque Route.

During this experience, you will stop in the most picturesque villages, and discover very surprising hidden treasures, being astonished as well by the landscapes, medieval villages & baroque treasures of the Baroque Route.

11- Visit Place Massena, the city’s main square

apollo statue in place massena, nice

Place Massena is the main square of Nice, located in the center of town. It’s a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike, with Fountain du Soleil at its center.

Surrounding the square are some of the most famous landmarks in Nice, including the Palais de la Prefecture, the Opera de Nice, and the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate.

The square is also full of restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops for visitors to explore.

12- See Cathedrale Orthodoxe Russe St Nicolas

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas is an impressive example of religious architecture in Nice.

This stunning church, located in the neighborhood of Cimiez, was built in 1903.

13- Have lunch at one of the beach clubs

hotel amour a la plage 1

One of my favorite things to do in Nice on a sunny day is to have lunch at one of the many amazing beach clubs in the city.

Negresco Plage, Bocca Mar, and Le Galet are usually my go-to.

14- Spend a day at Sainte Marguerite Island

boat from cannes to ile st marguerite

Take a tranquil journey across the Gulf of Cannes and visit Sainte Marguerite Island. The island is home to a stunning national park, as well as some fascinating historical attractions.

Some of the most popular activities on this beautiful island are exploring the remains of the 17th-century Fort Royal, enjoying the beach, visiting Musée du Masque de Fer et du Fort Royal, or going scuba-diving and seeing the underwater sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor.

15- Make your own perfume at Molinard

Molinard is one of Nice’s oldest and most famous perfume makers.

The Molinard store offers visitors the chance to create their own unique fragrance with the help of a professional perfumer.

During the experience, guests learn about the history of perfumes and how they are made. In the end, they can take home a bottle of their personalized scent!

16- Buy fresh produce from Marché aux Fleurs in Cours Saleya

marche aux fleurs cours saleya nice

Cours Saleya is a large open-air market in Nice’s Old Town. Every morning, vendors set up stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and other local goods.

Wander through the market to take in the vibrant sights and smells of fresh fruits and vegetables.

17- Explore Musée Matisse

Pay a visit to the Musée Matisse, located in Nice’s Cimiez district.

Inside the museum, you’ll find an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures by Matisse as well as other artworks from his contemporaries.

18- See the Nice Cathedral

Nice Cathedral, located in the heart of Nice’s Old Town, is an impressive example of Gothic architecture.

The building was constructed in the 13th century and features a large rose window and an intricately carved facade.

19- Have a drink at the Negresco

hotel negresco 3

The Negresco is an iconic hotel located on the seafront promenade in Nice. The building has been a landmark since 1913 and is known for its grand Renaissance-style architecture.

Head to Negresco’s bar for a unique experience – you can enjoy creative cocktails surrounded by luxurious decor without breaking the bank.

20- Get lost in Vieux Nice

old town nice france

Vieux Nice, or Old Nice, is a quaint neighborhood located in the heart of the city. It’s filled with colorful pastel buildings, winding alleyways, and small boutiques to explore.

For a taste of local history, take some time to wander through Vieux Nice and you’re sure to stumble upon a hidden gem or two.

21- Shop at Galeries Lafayette

galleries lafayette nice france

Galeries Lafayette is a sophisticated shopping center located within Place Massena. It has several options of stores offering high-end fashion, beauty, and home items.

It is a great place to explore on a lazy afternoon or even a rainy day.

22- Take the ferry to St Tropez

boats in st tropez

Take a day trip to the glamorous seaside resort of St Tropez.

Hop on a ferry from Nice ‘s port and cruise around the coast, admiring views of the French Riviera as you go.

Once you arrive in St Tropez, explore its charming harbor, visit pristine beaches, or shop for unique souvenirs at one of its many boutiques.

23- Explore Lascaris Palace

The Palais Lascaris is one of Nice’s most impressive historical landmarks and surprisingly, a bit of a hidden gem.

It was built in 1648 by an Italian noble family who had settled in France at the time. Today, it is open to the public and houses an impressive museum, filled with antiques, musical instruments, and paintings from the 17th century.

24- Visit Musée Massena

musee massena

Musée Masséna Museum is a vast and unique history museum that celebrates the life of the city by showcasing a wealth of artifacts and historical treasures in interactive displays and extensive galleries.

25- Hike Sentier du Litoral to Villefranche-sur-Mer

For some of the best coastal views in Nice, take a hike along Sentier du Litoral. The trail runs from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer and offers spectacular panoramas of the French Riviera.

The hike is easy and well worth it – you’ll end up in Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming little town with plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore.

26- Watch a spectacle at the Opera de Nice

If you’re looking for an evening of culture, head to the Opera de Nice. This historic building opened in 1888 and has been entertaining audiences ever since with its world-renowned performances.

From ballets to operas, the Opera de Nice offers something for everyone – make sure to check out their lineup before visiting.

27- Visit Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

villa ephrussi de rothschild from far (1)

This absolutely stunning villa is very easy to reach from Nice and is so worth the visit.

Read: How to get to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild from Nice

Conclusion: Best things to do in Nice

We hope this guide has answered your questions about the best activities in Nice, France.

If you have any additional questions or tips for other travelers about what to do in Nice, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Happy exploring!

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

👗 Find all my favorite addresses in Nice on this travel guide.

📕 Get a personalized French Riviera itinerary here or check out my other travel planning services

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

  • 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024
  • 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]
  • 24 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice in 2024
  • 15 Best Tours in Nice, France
  • 10 Reasons Why Nice is Worth Visiting

must visit places in nice france

Camila Neves

Nice to meet you! My name is Cami and I am a full-time traveler and foodie. I live in Nice in the South of France and this blog is where I share my impressions and travel secrets.

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Nice, France

The 13 best things to do in Nice

From peaceful flower markets to medieval castles, here's our guide to the French Riviera's shining jewel

Isabelle Aron

In many ways, Nice takes the crown as the ultimate summer destination. Certainly it’s the shining glory of the French Riviera. It has it all, from stunning sandy beaches to quaint little villages and some fantastic markets to stroll through. That’s probably why it’s made a bit of a name for itself as a prime spot for celebs, high-flyers and other seekers of luxurious living. 

But the best things to do in Nice aren’t just star-studded extravagance. You’ll find something for every budget here, from art exhibitions for as little as €10 to medieval castles you can hike to for no money at all. Plus there’s infinite free ways to spend your days, like wondering through flower markets and sipping on cheap local wines. Whatever you’re here for, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best things to do in Nice on all budgets. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏖️ The best beaches in Nice 🍴 The best restaurants in Nice 🛍️ The best shops in Nice 🏨 The best hotels in Nice 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Nice

Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides , written by local experts.

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Best things to do in Nice

Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain

1.  Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain

What is it?  Nice’s modern art museum, home to a vast collection of pop art, realist art and more, from the 1950s to the present day. You’ll find pop art legends Andy Worhol and Roy Lichtenstein here, to name a few, as well as realist artist Yves Klein, who lived in Nice. 

Why go?  Not only are the exhibitions always great here, but the building itself is a marvel. You’ll find outdoor sculptures, three floors of artwork, and a rooftop exhibition space where you can catch fantastic views over the city. Oh, and a general ticket is just  €10. 

Promenade des Anglais

2.  Promenade des Anglais

What is it?  This 7km paved promenade was paid for by wealthy English expats who liked to wander along the seafront in the 1800s (hence the name). Hundreds of years later and the view is just as beautiful.

Why go?  Mooch along this stretch to soak up the sights of the gorgeously blue Mediterranean sea, stopping at one of the many bars and restaurants by the beach along the way. ‘The Prom’, as it is known to locals, is where the Nice Carnival takes place every February.

Musée Matisse

3.  Musée Matisse

What is it?  Matisse lived in Nice for nearly 40 years, and this museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of his work.

Why go?  Trace the career of one of France’s most famous artists, with paintings, drawings, sculptures and his famous paper cut-outs all on show at  Musée Matisse . Matisse died in Nice in 1954, and you can also visit his grave in the Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez cemetery, near the museum.

Hotel Negresco

4.  Hotel Negresco

What is it?  This historic hotel on the Promenade des Anglais is more than 100 years old. With its pastel-pink, domed roof, it’s an iconic building you can’t miss.

Why go?  A room here will set you back at least a couple of hundred quid per night, but there’s no need to stay at the hotel to experience it. The bar shakes up awesome cocktails with everything from Old Fashioneds and Negronis to their own signature creations, including the ‘Royal Negresco’ with Kirsch, raspberry syrup and Champagne.

5.  Voyageur Nissart

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 제니제니,🌸,💊 (@banijeny)

What is it?  A welcoming, family-run restaurant serving provençal classics in a less touristy part of town.

Why go?  Stuffed courgette flowers, sautéed lamb and, of course, Niçoise salad are just some of the dishes available here. And with loads of set menu options from reasonable prices, it won't break the bank either. The restaurant is near Nice station, so it's a good spot to try if you're coming or going via the station or heading out on a day trip.

Beer District

6.  Beer District

What is it?  The south of France might be better known for its wine, but hopheads can rejoice as craft beer has made it to Nice, thanks to the arrival of this bar.

Why go?  With 16 microbrews on tap and loads of bottled beers from all over the world, beer lovers are spoiled for choice here. Not sure what to go for? Staff are happy to advise, and they’ll offer samples too. Cheers to that.

Le Shapko

7.  Le Shapko

What is it?  You can hear live jazz, funk and soul every night of the week at this buzzy bar in the centre of the old town.

Why go?  The space is set over two floors, so you can grab a spot on the balcony overlooking the stage or get close to the band downstairs. Get there early for happy hour from 7pm until 9pm and (if you’ve got the stamina) dance into the early hours as the band’s set develops into a lively jam session.

Cave de la Tour

8.  Cave de la Tour

What is it?  Founded in 1947, this is one of the city’s oldest wine bars. With local wines and varieties from across France, this is the place to be if you want to sample the region’s finest booze.

Why go?  Some of the wines are available by the glass, but once you find your favourite, you might be tempted to stay for a bottle. Luckily, they also serve tasty food to soak up all that booze. Nab a seat under the shady terrace and settle for the long haul.

Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya

9.  Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya

What is it?  An incredible flower market in the Old Town dating back to 1897. These days, there is also fruit, vegetables and street food, but it’s the impressive floral display you’ll see all over your Instagram feed.

Why go?  Even if you don’t buy any flowers, you can happily mooch around this lovely market admiring all kinds of flora. There are also plenty of things to buy that can travel home without wilting – dried herbs and spices, unusual teas and dinky jars of tapenade – as well as bread and pastries to munch on as you wander.

Chez Pipo

10.  Chez Pipo

What is it?  The local cuisine is more than just Nicoise salads, y'know. This cute spot near the port specialises in socca, a Provençal, pizza-style snack made from chickpea flour and cooked in a huge stone oven.

Why go?  Chez Pipo has been serving up socca since it opened in 1923, so it is one of the most popular places to sample this local delicacy. It can get busy, but if you have to wait, you can grab a drink and watch them preparing the socca – it is quite the operation.

Badaboom

11.  Badaboom

What is it?  Overdone it on the cheese and baguette? Switch things up at this veggie and vegan spot near the port, where creative dishes are served from an open kitchen.

Why go?  Start with a healthy smoothie or matcha latte before feasting on colourful acai bowls topped with berries, vibrant salads and raw cakes at this independent café. Whether you’re veggie, vegan, or just craving some fruit and veg, you’ll find something delicious here.

Parc de la Colline du Château

12.  Parc de la Colline du Château

What is it?  Colline du Château translates to ‘castle hill’, and while the medieval castle was destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706, the hill still stands. And at 93 metres above sea level, it offers glorious, panoramic views over the city.

Why go?  Tackle the climb to the summit of this hilltop park, and you’ll be rewarded with sweet views along the way. You’ll pass an impressive waterfall and, once you reach the top, there’s a lovely park where you can rest your legs. Settle on the grass for a picnic or grab a bite from the café. If you don’t fancy the climb, there’s even a lift you can take.

Antibes

13.  Antibes

What is it?  If you fancy a change of scene, take a day trip to the lovely resort town of Antibe. Set on the French Riviera between Cannes and Nice, it takes less than 15 minutes by train to get there from Nice.

Why go?  There’s plenty to explore – relax on the beach, admire the port’s amazing yachts or enjoy panoramic views from Fort Carré, an impressive 16th-century port. Don’t miss the Picasso Museum, housed in an old castle where Picasso once lived.

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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 .

must visit places in nice france

What to Do in Nice, France

Hotel Negresco - Nice

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

Castle Hill - Nice

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

Harbor Nice

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

Place Rosetti and Cathedral - Nice

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

Flower Market - Nice

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

Nice - French Riviera

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

must visit places in nice france

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

must visit places in nice france

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

must visit places in nice france

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

Cimiez Monastery - Nice

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 .

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10. Take a Food Tour

must visit places in nice france

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

must visit places in nice france

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

must visit places in nice france

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

must visit places in nice france

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

must visit places in nice france

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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Journey To France

24 Best Things To Do In Nice, France

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: January 19, 2020  - Last updated: December 20, 2023

Nice is located in the bright and beautiful French Riviera and has always been a favorite vacation spot in France. It used to be the regional capital but is now known as a top destination in the South of France.

This port town is also a favorite among artists. Its turquoise waters have inspired the likes of Matisse to Chagall, who both have museums in the city. .

More than its location and surrounding beauty, there’s a lot going on in Nice that makes for a perfect South of France holiday.

Headed to Nice soon? Here are thirteen of the best things to do in Nice, France.

Things you'll find in this article

1. Explore Vieux Nice – the Old Town

2. check out the baroque architecture of nice, opening hours:, admission fee:, contact information:, 4. castle hill (colline du chateau), 5. place massena, 6. promenade des anglais, 11. visit one of the beaches in nice, 12. parc du mont boron, 13. cours saleya market, 14. visit la promenade du paillon, 15. roam at avenue jean medecin, 16. see the animals of the parc phoenix, 17. museum of modern and contemporary art (mamac), 18. pay respect at notre dame basilica of nice, 19. make your way to opera de nice, 20. explore albert 1st garden, 21. honor at the war memorial, 22. witness historical sculptures at the museum of fine arts, 23. go to gairaut waterfall, 24. shop ’till you drop at the liberation market, hostel lyonnais, hotel le negresco, think about getting a musees pass, save your bikinis for the beach, provide your market basket, nice’s tap water is safe to drink., beware of pickpockets in nice, travel tips and resources.

24 Best Things To Do In Nice, France

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Vieux Nice

Start your Nice holiday and get a feel of the city by exploring Vieux Nice – its old town area. Located between the Quai des Etats Unis and Place Massena, a stroll here is the best thing to do in Nice to soak in the atmosphere.

Wander through the narrow lanes and check out the architecture, the colorful neighborhoods, and the shops. This area is a fun place to shop for Provencal products such as lavender soap, olive oil, and touristy trinkets.

When you feel like relaxing a bit, stop for some ice cream at the Place Rossetti. This is the central part of Vieux Nice where you can sit by the fountain while enjoying the views of the nearby Cathedral Sainte Reparate.

Chapelle de la Miséricorde

While you’re in the Old Town area, be sure to take in the sights and especially the architecture. The style is predominantly Baroque, which is excessive yet wonderfully ornate.

This architectural style dates from the end of the 16th century to the end of the 18th century. Marveling at the city’s impressive architecture is one of the more satisfying activities to do in Nice.

Some of the buildings you should see are the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, which is considered as one of the top Baroque churches in the world and the pretty pastel-colored  Eglise de Gésu at 12 Rue Droite.

3. Palais Lascaris

Palais Lascaris

Constructed in 1648 for the aristocratic Lascaris-Ventimiglia family, the Palais Lascaris is both a museum and historic monument.

The interiors are quite luxurious — with an elaborate staircase, frescos, and luxe salons. There’s also a variety of musical instruments on display that’s a definite must-see. Walk through the hallways and admire its stylish decor.

A visit here is one of the best things to do in Nice to get a glimpse of the opulent life a few centuries ago.

Every day except Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Individual ticket: 10€

Guided Tour:

Individuals – 6€ Groups – 82€ (15-20 participants)

Address:15, rue Droite 06300 Nice, France

Phone: 04 93 62 72 40

Email:[email protected]

Castle Hill nice

Castle Hill is about 92 meters above sea level and is the highest point in the city. This is where you can see the ruins of Chateau de Nice. The chateau used to he a military citadel, that was eventually destroyed in the early 1799s by Louis XIV.

Apart from the ruins, Castle Hill also offers breathtaking views over the bay. This is easily one of the most popular places to visit in Nice abs it’s easy to see why.

The gardens here are also worth spending more time on especially during summer.

Place Massena

Another unmissable place to see in Nice is the Place Massena, located in the city center.

This is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll, where you can wander through the lush Massena gardens and marvel at beautiful fountains.

Stay here until the evening and watch as these fountains light up after dark. Place Massena is also another great place to shop in Nice, as there’s a good mix of designer stores and traditional French boutiques.

Promenade des Anglais Nice

Being a coastal city, one of the best things to do in Nice is a walk along the waterfront.

The 7-kilometer Promenade des Anglais is lined with palm trees and is located by the ocean side. Enjoy views of the sparkling Mediterranean, observe the activities in one of the beaches , or enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants.

The Promenade introduces you to another aspect of life in this beautiful French city. It’s a lovely place to visit any time of the day but it’s best to go early as it’s less crowded or late afternoon to catch the sunset.

7. Musee Marc Chagall

Musée Marc Chagall

The artist Marc Chagall is of French and Russian heritage and regarded as one of the most popular Jewish artists of the twentieth century! He is best known for his stunning work with stained glass, as well as his huge paintings and modernist style.

Marc Chagall is also famous for his stunning biblical paintings. Be sure to visit this museum when in Nice, as it’s quite an experience viewing his work. Look closely and check out the amazing detail in his works. Musee Marc Chagall is among those places to visit in Nice that one shouldn’t miss.

From November to April from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

From May to October from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm

Including access to the permanent collection, temporary exhibition and audioguide (French, English, Italian, German, Russian, Japanese, Chinese and Spanish)

Full rate: €8 Reduced rate: €6 Groups rate (minimum 10 persons): €6.50

+ €2 increased price during the exhibitions

Free for visitors under 26 (EU citizens or visitors with EU visas and long residence in EU), the disabled (MDPH or Cotorep card) teachers (valid education pass) beneficiaries of a number of welfare benefits and for all on the first Sunday of each month – audioguide: + €2

Address: Musée national Marc Chagall 36, avenue Docteur Ménard – 06000 Nice Phone:+ 33 (0) 4 93 53 87 20

8. Musée Matisse

Musée Matisse

Located in the trendy Cimiez district is the Musée Matisse, one of the coolest places to see in Nice.

Before moving to  Cimiez, Matisse lived in an apartment in the Cours Saleya. His Cimiez residence was in the swanky Regina building, now known for its luxurious vacation rentals.

The Musée Matisse is located inside a 17th-century Genoese villa and houses a collection of Matisse’s work ranging from the 1890s (such as  “Nature Morte Aux Livres”) to the early 1950s. This is a lovely museum to visit and you don’t have to be an art buff to appreciate the collections.

Matisse is known for his use of color so expect a literal feast for the senses.

Museum open daily except on Tuesdays

From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from November 1st to April 30th

From 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from May 2nd to October 31st

Individual Ticket – 10€ Access to all municipal museums and galleries for 24 hours

7 days individual Ticket – 20€ Access to all municipal museums and galleries for 7 days

Group Ticket – 8€ per person (from 10 people) Access to all municipal museums and galleries for 24 hours

Free tickets: proof required Children under age 18 and students, unemployed persons, disabled civilians and war veterans with one accompanying person each, Museum curators, Journalists, Teachers (Pass Education card), Tour Guides

Address:164, avenue des Arènes de Cimiez 06000 Nice.

Phone:(+33) (0) 4 93 81 08 08

Email:[email protected]

9. Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas

Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas Nice

It’s probably strange to find a Russian church in the French Riviera but there’s one and it’s among the best things to see in Nice.

It was constructed during the reign of Czar Nicholas II and has been a top Nice attraction with its brilliant domes and spires since 1912.

This church is quite unmissable,  perhaps a little out of place but it works well with the mostly Baroque structures in Nice. This eye-catching structure is located on Avenue Nicolas-II.

Daily from 9:00 am- 6:00pm

Address: Cathédrale St. Nicolas Avenue Nicolas II 06000 Nice – France

Phone:+33 9 81 09 53 45

Email:[email protected]

Cimiez

If you’re already visiting the Matisse Museum, you might as well look around the neighborhood where it is located.

Cimiez always makes it to those lists of the best places to visit in Nice. This fashionable neighborhood is home to a variety of interesting attractions.

There are the remains of a Roman settlement surrounding the Matisse Museum, or the 16th-century Franciscan Monastery and Museum.

The latter is among the popular places in Cimiez because of its gardens and masterpieces by the famous Niçoise artist Ludovic Bréa.

Across the Matisse Museum, you’ll find the imposing Regina building. This was where Matisse used to live and is now a posh apartment building,

BEACH IN NICE FRANCE

You cannot be in Nice and the French Riviera without spending some time on the beach. The shores here are pebbly and rocky instead of sandy. Enjoy a relaxing walk or a picnic with a view of the sparkling blue waters.

You may choose to hang out at a public beach or splurge a bit on a private resort. The best public and private beaches in Nice are actually located right next to each other.

A most recommended private beach is the Plage Beau Rivage across from the Beau Rivage Hotel. Meanwhile, one of the most popular public beaches in Nice is the free La Plage Publique de Beau Rivage, which is just beside Plage Beau Rivage.

Take a break from exploring the busy streets of Nice and enjoy a nature hike at Parc du Mont Boron.  Located in the eastern part of the city, Parc du Mont Boron has over seven miles of hiking trails.

There are trails for every fitness level so you get to decide which one to take. The trails range from easy walks that last for an hour to long, strenuous hikes that take an entire day to finish.

This is the ideal thing to do in Nice if you want to enjoy the views and the huge crowds, and here, they’re quite spectacular. The scenery along the way and the sights from the summit are truly worth it.

Cours Saleya Market

The sprawling Cours Saleya is a daily fruit and vegetable market that runs through the Old Town. This is the most popular market and easily among the best Nice attractions.

If you’re into classic films, the market was also featured in Hitchcock‘s “To Catch a Thief”. Spend a few hours here, or even an entire day as the market activity never stops.

Check out fruits and vegetables in the morning, the flowers in the afternoon, and enjoy snacks in between. Be sure to try some Corsican cheeses and charcuterie, or the infamous socca (a chickpea flour crepe).

In the evening, bistros and cafes move their tables to this area so you can also enjoy dinner and drinks .

La promenade du Paillon

Nice’s Promenade du Paillon was designed and put up as a botanical garden. It was named after the river of the same name, Paillon.

It was once a furious torrent, but now it flows below through Nice in the form of a canal. The Promenade du Paillon was built on the old riverbed after it was emptied.

The Promenade du Paillon is a great spot for kids, with swings, climbing structures, and seesaws located throughout.

Large wooden sea animals urge you to play and have a good time. A trip to the Promenade du Paillon is thus ideal for every member of the family and evidence that a living space for all has been developed here.

Avenue Jean Medecin

Avenue Jean Médecin is situated in the middle of Nice, France. It’s ideal for shopaholics because the entire stretch is lined with stores and businesses. This is the most renowned street in the province, and it is crowded all day.

This street runs through the train station and leads to the Promenade des Anglais through the old town.

So, in addition to going for a walk, you may treat yourself to a variety of things. Apart from a couple of trams which operate every now and again, there is no major traffic on this street. You may also satisfy your appetite because this location has a choice of restaurants.

must visit places in nice france

If you’re searching for activities to do with kids in South France, the Park Phoenix is an excellent choice. The zoo is located on the outer edges of Nice in a huge wood near the Nice airport. There is a massive lake with fountains, in addition to a massive greenhouse featuring tropical plants.

To be honest, even though I’m still within city limits, I feel like I’m in the middle of nowhere. There are several species to see, including lizards, parrots, and swans. The park is well set out, with several attractive shaded walks, fountains, and picnic areas.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has a bold architecture that is built to house the works and achievements of several outstanding artists.

The museum, which consists of a four-footed arch covering the Peillon subterranean channel on one end and the old Route Nationale 7 on the other side, is placed in the center of the city, helping to reconcile two important features of Nice’s urban structure.

The museum, which has over 1,250 works of art by over 200 artists, provides an in-depth account of modern and contemporary art spanning 1950 to the present day.

Children and teenagers can also appreciate the work of art. MAMAC facilitates school group trips, among other things.

Every Sunday morning, instructors, artists, and scholars on the reservation welcome guests for a guided tour. It is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day except Monday.

Notre Dame Basilica of Nice

The cathedrals of Paris and Angers influenced Nice’s grandest church. This neo-gothic structure is in the city’s center, on the extremely popular Avenue Jean Médecin.

The Notre Dame de Nice was created by the renowned architect Louis Lenormand, who was also in charge of building the Monaco Cathedral. This church is distinguished by two nearly rebellious square towers.

Because of its exceptional acoustics, Notre Dame de Nice has been utilized not just for religious services but also for musical performances.

All year long, orchestral, choral, and organ performances, along with the Heures Musicales de Notre Dame arranged by the basilica, provide spectacular aural experiences inside the colossal cathedral.

Opera de Nice

The Opéra de Nice was erected in 1885 on the site of an earlier theatre that existed for nearly a century. The Opera Nice is a historic landmark within a short walk from the iconic Place Masséna.

It has now become a meeting spot for the residents of Nice, who are still awestruck by its architectural grandeur. Its amphitheater can seat over 900 people for stunning musical presentations of modern works or reconstructions of traditional acts.

Albert 1st Garden

The Albert Garden represents one of Nice’s oldest parks. Greenery, fountains, sculptures, works of art, as well as plant varieties, delight the residents of Nice and visitors who come here to sunbathe.

A massive monument of a winged Victory situated above its southern entrance commemorated the County of Nice’s admission to France. Many more monuments have been placed within the park throughout the years.

Nowadays, the Albert Garden, located in the center of the park, accommodates a variety of cultural activities. Throughout the year, the Book Festival and several events are held there.

Nice’s war memorial is massive and impressive. It was planned to be built on the slope of the Old City hill, in close proximity to the sea and the harbor, so that no one could miss it.

It’s a large 32-meter-high structure with columns and a temple-like design to honor the memories of Nice residents who perished during the war. A ceremony commemorating their memories is now conducted on the 11th of November and the 8th of May.

palais beaux arts lille

The Nice Museum of Fine Arts is situated in a mansion built for a Ukrainian princess. It mostly exhibits Impressionism paintings, as well as sculptures and ceramics.

The exhibits at the museum are displayed on two levels. In the old winter garden, on the ground level, directly beyond the cash registers.

The Promenade des Anglais connects the city center to the Nice Museum of Fine Arts. The signs directing visitors to the museum emphasize the importance of descending from the Promenade.

To commemorate the construction of the Vésubie canal, the Gairaut waterfall was built in the 19th century near a wooden mountain lodge.

The waterfall, influenced by Austrian scenery, was created in 1883 during the popularity of central European spas such as Baden Baden in Germany. They built a rustic artificial rock wall including a huge waterfall, both of which had a useful goal: oxygenating the water before it was distributed throughout the city.

While the surrounding environment, with caverns and ponds, seems a little artificial, the panoramas back to Nice City are stunning. It is well worth seeing.

If you like the relaxed atmosphere of local markets, you’ll appreciate the Liberation market. Market homeowners, seafood traders, and other food producers in Nice and its neighboring districts put up their stalls in the first minutes of the morning.

Breathe in the fragrances and relish the flavors; it’s an homage to Nice and its environs. An encouragement to savor life’s better things.

Don’t miss out on the Halles Gourmandes de la Gare du Sud. This old structure has been completely refurbished and now houses a food court with roughly thirty distinct street-food vendors and restaurants providing all varieties of cuisine in a pleasant, welcoming environment.

Where to Stay in Nice

Location: 20 Rue de Russie, 06000 Nice, France

Hostel Lyonnais is conveniently located in the heart of Nice and offers free WiFi and a communal lounge. The property is adjacent to numerous well-known sites, including Plage Blue Beach (1.2 kilometers), Avenue Jean Medecin (290 meters), and the Russian Orthodox Cathedral (1.32 km).

Some apartments at the hotel include balconies with city views. Some rooms have a kitchenette including a fridge and a cooktop.

Price per Night:

  • $19 – $55
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Daily housekeeping

Mixed Dormitory Room For 1 (1 night): $19 Price + $1 taxes and charges

Notable Inclusions:

  • 3 bunk beds
  • Shared dormitory room
  • Private bathroom

Location: 37 Promenade Des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France

In Nice, the Hotel Le Negresco views the seaside and the Promenade des Anglais. There is complimentary internet access and a hotel-owned fitness center.

Every accommodation and suite is distinctively designed with antique furnishings and has air conditioning. Rooms also have a flat-screen TV along with a private bathroom. Every morning, a delicious buffet breakfast is given in La Rotonde restaurant.

The British-style pub serves snacks and beverages, while the Michelin-starred Le Chantecler restaurant serves gourmet meals. Guests of Hotel Le Negresco can pay extra for admission to a private beach location.

  • $356 – $3,527
  • 2 restaurants
  • Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
  • Private beach area
  • Fabulous breakfast

Deluxe Suite with Sea View For 2 (1 night): $3,527 Price + $4 taxes and charges

  • 1 extra-large double bed
  • Flat-screen

Nice Travel Tips

If you intend to visit numerous museums in Nice, get a Pass Musées 3 Jours via the Internet or at the tourist information office.

The pass, which costs $16.19 and is good for three days, includes access to all city museums and galleries. Just one museum entrance charges $5.40 or $10.79, depending on the institution, so you only must attend a handful to make the pass worthwhile.

Avoid walking around the city in revealing beachwear or bare-chested. Dress like one would when visiting a non-coastal city away from the beach. Comfortable shirts as well as loose skirts or baggy shorts are ideal for summer.

Don’t forget your sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. While on the beach, toplessness is entirely fine, and locals aren’t hesitant about it.

Carrying your market basket, called “panier” in French, is a widespread tradition among visitors and locals alike in Nice, France.

By carrying your market basket when shopping in Nice, you not only help with environmental efforts but also immerse yourself more fully in local culture, ensuring the visit is more authentic and pleasurable.

At Nice, tap water is safe to drink, and purchasing a jug of tap water instead of bottled water at restaurants saves money and minimizes plastic usage.

Carry a water bottle for refilling on your way throughout town. There are public drinking fountains throughout the two terminals of Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport as well as throughout the city. There are also taps in accessible shower blocks located on the Promenade des Anglais.

Keep your wits around you as you would in any other metropolis. Pickpockets may be seen in touristy places such as Liberation Market, as well as on trams and buses entering town from the airport. Personal possessions should not be left unattended on the beach; they are safer inside your hotel.

Related Read: Best Hotels To Stay In Nice

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Christine Rogador in the Louvre

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Home » Europe » France » Nice

11 BEST Places to Visit in Nice (2024)

Long associated with being the playground of the rich and famous, Nice is one of the Côte d’Azur’s gems. However, you don’t need to be a movie star to enjoy this pretty city on the Mediterranean Coast. The largest city of the French Riviera offers sweeping boulevards, opulent mansions, and a swathe of history and culture. Lose yourself in the streets of the Old Town, be spellbound by the city’s art galleries, and maybe even relax on the beach… if you can get comfortable on the pebbles! This classy and cool vacation destination is the perfect introduction to the South of France and it’s just waiting to be discovered!

We’ve had a look at the best places to visit in Nice, and in this post, we’ll be revealing our favourites. Our extensive list will hopefully be useful when it comes to planning your vacation to the French Riviera!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Nice:

These are the best places to visit in nice, faq on the best places to visit in nice.

Vieux Nice

Old Town, or “Vieux Nice”, is the heart of the city of Nice. A dense labyrinth of cobblestone streets, this is where you’ll find colourful buildings, charming shops, quaint cafes and historic landmarks.

  • Admire the ornate façade of the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, which dates back to the mid-17th-century
  • See incredible works of art at the Musee des Beaux-Arts
  • Climb to the top of Castle Hill and take in the stunning views of the city and the sea

must visit places in nice france

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#1 – Promenade des Anglais

Promenade des Anglais

  • One of the Mediterranean’s grandest walkways
  • Admire the regal 19th-century palaces
  • Stop as many times as you want under the shade of palm trees along the 7km walk

Why it’s awesome: The Promenade des Anglais dates back to the 1820s and it’s not hard to see why it’s on pretty much everyone’s Nice itinerary! A long curve along the Baie des Anges beaches, the Promenade is a hefty 7km long. It’s mostly flat though, so you don’t have to be an experienced walker or hiker to enjoy it. There are beautifully landscaped gardens and palm trees all the way along the Promenade. Although there are roads here, traffic never gets too heavy. Most of it is diverted underground so pedestrians can enjoy this Nice must see!

What to do there: There’s more to the Promenade Anglais than just walking and taking the occasional break in the shade. However, if you want to do that, that’s just fine! As the boulevard is quite wide, it’s also popular for joggers, skaters, and cyclists, which you might want to try out too. In terms of places to see, try the Palais de la Méditerranée theatre, Villa Masséna, and the Negresco. Yes, our choice for the best luxury hotel in Nice is also home to an art collection and it’s a National Historical Monument! There are a few of Nice’s hostels not far from here in case you want to make it your base.

must visit places in nice france

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#2 – Vieille Ville – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Nice

Vieille Ville

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the Old Town’s narrow and cobbled alleyways
  • Have a crepe and a coffee in one of the sun-drenched squares
  • Explore Nice’s most intriguing and exciting neighbourhood

Why it’s awesome: You would be forgiven for thinking you were in Italy as you find your way around Nice’s Vieille Ville. One of the most charming areas to stay in Nice , you’ll find museums, galleries, and some of the best places to eat in France hidden in the colourful and narrow houses. It’s a feast for the sense, as it’s also where you’ll find the bright and vibrant colours and smells of the Cours Saleya Market, which we’ll talk more about later. Make sure you’re looking up too, to take in the stunning Provençal-Baroque style architecture of the buildings!

What to do there: Well, as much as there is to explore in the Vieille Ville, sometimes you just want to sit and watch the world go by. Luckily, the squares that punctuate the narrow alleyways in the oldest part of Nice are full of creperies, cafes, and ice cream shops. You can easily spend some time here just people watching and taking a moment to relax! If you’re a little more hands-on, there are some hotspots in Nice’s old town. Head into the cathedrals and churches to appreciate the religious art, or pop into a museum!

#3 – Musée Matisse

Musée Matisse

  • See most of the sculptures that Matisse created
  • Beautiful Genoese villa surrounded by landscaped gardens
  • An absolute Nice must-do for art lovers

Why it’s awesome: Art lovers will not want to miss the Musée Matisse. Standing on Cimiez Hill, this stunning red Italianate villa showcases works of the colourful artist. There are 68 paintings, and more than 200 designs and drawings respectively. This museum also houses most of the sculptures Matisse ever made! It’s a great place not only to see his masterpieces but to learn about one of the 20 th century’s most influential artists!

What to do there: Get an idea of the genius of Matisse not only by seeing his work but visiting the temporary exhibitions. Films and conferences give a more in-depth understanding of the man and his life! If you’re visiting Nice for art, consider getting a Riviera Pass. It’ll grant you access to a number of other art museums in town too. These include the Museum of Asian Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Musée Marc Chagall.

#4 – St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral – One of the best religious places to see in Nice!

St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral

  • Considered as one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox Churches outside Russia
  • Built in the early 20 th  century by Tsar Nicholas
  • Check the dress code before you visit!

Why it’s awesome: Originally built in 1912 when the Russian Royal Family were living in exile, this cathedral is still used as a place of worship today. In fact, it’s one of the most important landmarks in Nice to the city’s Russian population! It’s said to be one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox Churches outside of Russia, and that’s not hard to believe once you’re in. The interior is decorated with icons, murals, and carvings, as well as a number of religious Russian artefacts!

What to do there: This cathedral is still an active place of worship. So, if you’re interested in a Russian church service, it could be a very cool idea to check one out here! If you want to learn more about the cathedral, its history, and the Russian Orthodox religion itself, then it might be a good idea to take a tour. These are offered in French, English, and even Japanese every day. Pretty surprising that there’s not one in Russian, right?! We can’t recommend enough visiting one of the most standout landmarks in Nice!

#5 – Cours Saleya Market

Cours Saleya Market

  • The city’s colourful and vibrant flower market
  • Transforms into a flea market on a Monday
  • One of the best places to eat in Nice

Why it’s awesome: We already touched on the Cours Saleya Market in our section about the Vieille Ville. However, it really does deserve a section all to itself! Set in a charming square in the heart of the Old Town, this market sells fresh flowers and food six days a week. On a Monday, you can always try and pick up a bargain here as it’s a flea market! Check out the regional Provençal cheese, fresh fish, and make sure you try some of the free samples!

What to do there: If you’re planning to stay in a vacation rental when you travel to Nice, you’re going to love this place. You’ll be able to pick up fresh produce from across the Provence region and make it into some tasty treats. Your own apartment will end up being one of the best places to eat in Nice! If you want to really enjoy the market, it’s a good idea to get up early and go. It can get very, very busy if you leave it late!

#6 – Mont Boron – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Nice

Mont Boron

  • Get incredible views of the centre of Nice and Cap-Ferrat
  • Head up in the summer and visit the 16th-century bastion
  • One of the best places in Nice to get off the beaten track

Why it’s awesome: If you’re looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, how about here? Mont Boron is to the east of Nice, rising around 200 metres above the city and the summit is covered with a densely wooded park. There are also a number of celebrity mansions in this area, including one belonging to Elton John! Seeing the city from here will give you a new perspective. You’ll get great views of Cap-Ferrat too. If one of the most beautiful points of interest in Nice is good enough for Elton John, it’s good enough for you too!

What to do there: We’d definitely recommend hiking up to the top of Mont Boron. The views are spectacular, and the fort is very well-preserved. However, it is only open in summer! If you decide to hike, don’t forget food and drink, as there won’t be anywhere to get it once you’re here. Explore Nice’s coolest lookout point by taking the Number 14 bus from Place Masséna. A hiking trail may sound ominous if you’re not used to walking, but it’s really easy. Even a beginner could do it!

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#7 – Parc Phoenix

Parc Phoenix

  • Explore more than 20 themed zones in the park
  • See more than 2,500 varieties of plant life
  • Enjoy the animal enclosures and greenhouses

Why it’s awesome: At the western end of the Promenade des Anglais, you’ll find this incredible park set over 7 acres. It may cost €3 to enter (although kids do go free) but it’s definitely worth the price! It’s one of the most enjoyable attractions in Nice, especially if you’re travelling with the family. Parc Phoenix is made up of 20 themed zones, and there are more than 2,500 plant species living here. If that’s not enough, there are a number of animals too!

What to do there: Explore one of the largest greenhouses in Europe and meet its residents. Hidden among the leaves and greenery, you’ll find Chilean flamingos, iguanas, and Mandarin ducks wandering around at their own leisure. There are some enclosures too – after all, it would set everyone into a panic if tropical spiders were roaming around freely! And you can also visit otters and turtles. One of the best Nice vacation ideas for a fun, family day out!

#8 – Cap-Ferrat

Cap-Ferrat

  • A rugged coastal peninsula east of Nice
  • One of the best areas to spot stunning mansions
  • Cool off at the cosy and quiet beaches on the east of the peninsula

Why it’s awesome: Extending out into the Mediterranean Sea, this area is where you’ll find the real Old Money on the Riviera. Although it’s glamorous, it’s not as built up as you’d expect. Yes, there are some jaw-dropping mansions here, but it still has a rugged, unspoiled coastline, and lots of quaint and quiet beaches. This is one of the hotspots in Nice if you’re hoping to spot any celebrities on vacation!

What to do there: As we’ve already eluded to, celebrity spotting here is a pretty popular pastime! If you’re looking for something a little more concrete to do, what about heading to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild? Open year-round to visitors, it’s packed with precious and priceless works of art and antique furniture. Prefer to stay outdoors? Take the coastal trail which hugs the rock peninsula. It offers some really stunning photo opportunities, and it’s the easiest way to get to the beaches on the east of the peninsula. Don’t miss Cap-Ferrat off your Nice itinerary!

#9 – La Tete Carrée Library – A great place to see in Nice if you love architecture

La Tete Carrée Library

  • An unusual but impressive boxhead structure
  • 3 floors of books hidden inside here
  • Floors of the library are subtly illuminated at night

Why it’s awesome: One of the more unusual landmarks in Nice, La Tete Carrée Library is a giant head covered in a box! The sculpture was designed by artist Sacha Sosno for the city’s central library under the moniker of “Thinking inside the box”. It’s 25 metres tall, and although you may not easily see it during the day in bright sunlight, it’s covered in canvas which is lit up at night. It’s a truly wonderful sight!

What to do there: It won’t take you long to admire this unusual work of architecture from the outside. However, if you travel to Nice to study or work, this is a great place to spend a little time. You’ll not be disturbed, and you may even find some resources to help you in the library!

#10 – La Crypte Archéologique de Nice – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in Nice

La Crypte Archéologique de Nice

  • Discover the remnants of a medieval city, only discovered this century
  • Hidden away from the rest of the city
  • Check out the illustrations to see how the city used to look

Why it’s awesome: We imagine when a new tram line was being constructed in 2004, workers didn’t expect to find an underground medieval city. However, that’s exactly what they got when they discovered La Crypte Archéologique de Nice. You’d think that it would have skyrocketed in popularity and become one of the most visited hotspots in Nice, right? Well, that’s not the case. It’s actually very well hidden, with just a small sign, a trapdoor, and a staircase depicting what it is. The entrance is sealed when the place is closed, meaning that you might not even notice there’s anything there! It blends in perfectly with the square.

What to do there: If you can actually find La Crypte Archéologique de Nice, it’s well worth going in. See a map of the old city and artefacts that were still intact when it was discovered. There are plenty of drawings too! Tickets for the crypt must be purchased online in advance. Tours are only offered in French, but even if you don’t speak the language you can still check out one of the most unusual attractions in Nice!

Need help figuring out what to do and see? Use our  Nice itinerary  to gain some insider tips and knowledge!

#11 – Monastère de Cimiez

Monastère de Cimiez

  • Dates back to the 14 th  and 15 th  centuries
  • Come here to see incredible frescoes
  • The highlight are the gardens – the oldest on the Côte d’Azur

Why it’s awesome: There are many reasons to head up one of the most opulent streets in Nice. The Boulevard de Cimiez is lined with luxury hotels and 19th-century mansions, but it’s what’s at the end that is one of the most impressive attractions in Nice. The Monastère de Cimiez is north of the centre and dates back to 800AD, when Benedictines settled here. The buildings that you’ll witness today though, are from the 14 th and 15 th centuries. They’re still pretty special, and the frescoes inside will make your jaw hit the floor!

What to do there: As well as appreciating the architecture of these ancient buildings, you simply must check out the gardens at this monastery. They’re some of the oldest in the entire Côte d’Azur and offer incredible views across the city. It’s one of the best places in Nice for some top Instagram shots!

Get insured for your trip to Nice!

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They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in NIce

What places can you visit from Nice?

Monaco and Cannes are two popular destinations for day trips from Nice.

Is two days enough time to spend in Nice?

There is a lot of things to see and do in Nice. Personally, I would recommend three days to see all the sites. Two days isn’t really enough time to see the best attractions.

Is Nice, France safe?

Nice is a relatively safe city but you should always exercise caution, especially when alone at night.

What should I explore in Nice?

You should definitely check out the Vieille Ville for some Insta-worthy photos. If you’re a fan of art, you should check out the Matisse Museum and the Musée National Marc Chagall.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Nice. Hopefully, you’ll have found our list useful in not only helping you with the top attractions in Nice but the best places to stay too!

You can’t ask for much more out of a city break that what you’d get in Nice. It’s got bottomless history and culture, long beachfront walks, and it’s just a short train ride away from places like Monte Carlo and Villefranche-Sur-Mer. With this plethora of things to do, as well as great cuisine and nightlife, you’ll never get bored!

So, make sure you’ve got a copy of our best places to visit in Nice on you… it’ll save you plenty of time planning your holiday and let you concentrate on enjoying yourself. We hope you have a fantastic time!

must visit places in nice france

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

Mathilde Magnier

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16 Best Things to Do in Nice, France - Endless Travel Destinations

16 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

Looking for things to do in nice, france read this list of must-see sights and the best things to do in nice.

Nice is the fifth-largest city in France and is one of the most popular French cities for tourists. Of course, Nice cannot compete with the French capital Paris , but Nice has so much more to offer the adventurous travelers!

Nice is the center of the French Riviera and is surrounded by breathtaking green mountains and the calm blue sea. The beautiful area invites to adventurous road trips with many beautiful panoramic views along the way! Inside the city center, you’ll find lots of beautiful old buildings, art museums, lovely parks and much more!

Nice is definitely a wonderful destination that you should visit! And if you’re planning to visit Nice, I would like to recommend the 16 best things to do in Nice during your trip.

16 Best Things to Do in Nice, France - Endless Travel Destinations

Table of Contents

1. Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a landmark in Nice and stretches for 7 kilometers along the beautiful coast. The promenade is simply so iconic that you’ve not really been to Nice before strolling along the Promenade des Anglais!

The promenade itself is very beautiful and idyllic, but it’s often crowded with people, especially in the peak season. Across the road, you’ll find plenty of wonderful restaurants, bars, and hotels. Don’t forget to order some food at one of the restaurants! While eating you can enjoy the beautiful views of the lively promenade and the Mediterranean Sea with its calm blue waves.

Admission: Free to visit.

2. Musée d’art moderne et d’art contemporain

This museum of modern and contemporary art is one of the best things to do in Nice for art lovers. The museum consists of three floors with almost 1,300 works of art displayed in changing exhibitions. Several of the artworks at the museum are made by great and famous French artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. But there are also many other international artists behind the artworks.

Oh and by the way, make sure to visit the museum’s rooftop exhibit! It’s not necessarily the exhibit you should see up here, but rather the stunning views of Nice!

Admission: 10 € for adults. Free for children under 18, students and disabled civilians. / Official Site: https://www.mamac-nice.org/en/

3. Vieille Ville

The old town of Nice is absolutely beautiful and without a doubt, a must-see in Nice! The atmosphere in the old town is wonderful with a maze of narrow alleys and cobbled streets, ancient yellow houses, charming squares, and of course restaurants and small unique shops.

The many tourists, vendors, and street artists in the lively and old area contribute to an even better atmosphere! When visiting the old town, make sure to stop by the Cours Saleya , a square with a colorful flower and vegetable market.

Vielle Ville - Endless Travel Destinations

4. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas

Saint Nicholas Cathedral was built in 1912 by Tsar Alexander II in honor of his son who had sadly passed away. He wanted to build a church for the growing population of wealthy Russians in Nice because the old church was getting too small.

Today, Saint Nicholas Cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches outside of Russia and the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe. Be aware that the beautiful church is still used as a place of worship and there are certain rules visitors must respect. When visiting the church, it’s required that the knees and shoulders are covered. You must also remember to be quiet and not to take pictures inside.

5. Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya

In the old town of Nice, there’s a colorful flower and vegetable market with freshly produced goods. The market is worth a visit even if you don’t want to buy anything because Cours Saleya is an experience in itself. The beautiful colors, the scents, and the whole atmosphere are something very special!

The market is held every day of the week except Mondays, where it’s replaced by a large flea market with all sorts of antiques. If you want the ultimate experience, you need to get up early in the morning and visit the market before the tourists take over the place.

6. Colline du Chateau

One of the very best things to do in Nice is to visit the Colline du Chateau, also called the Parc du Château or Castle Hill. And I know it might sound like there’s a castle up there, but unfortunately, it isn’t there anymore. The medieval castle was destroyed by Louis XIV more than 300 years ago and only the ruins remain today. The ruins are worth checking out, but it’s the great panoramic views that are a must-see in Nice!

The Colline du Chateau rises 93 meters above sea level and is not only the highest point in Nice but also offers the most beautiful views in the city! The beautiful artificial waterfall and the lovely park at the top of the mountain are wonderful places to rest your legs for a while.

If you have the courage, you can reach the top of the Colline du Chateau on foot, but there’s also a free lift. Another fun option, even for the little ones, is to take the tourist train to the top of the mountain.

Colline du Chateau - Endless Travel Destinations

7. Musée Marc Chagall

This museum was built in honor of the Russian French artist Marc Chagall, one of the most popular Jewish artists of the 20th century. Admirers of Marc Chagall will be delighted that this place has the largest collection of his artworks in the world! Chagall had many artistic talents, but it’s especially his series of 17 biblical paintings that are impressive to visitors.

Marc Chagall paid a lot of attention to the details and the museum is actually designed and decorated in collaboration with Chagall himself. The placement of each painting is carefully thought out by him and nothing is left to chance.

Admission: 8 € with discounts available for children, young people and disabled civilians. / Official site: https://en.musees-nationaux-alpesmaritimes.fr/chagall/

8. Parc Phoenix

One of the most popular things to do in Nice is to visit Parc Phoenix. This park is divided into 20 themes with more than 2,500 plant species, flowers, and trees. The large greenhouse in the park is divided into seven zones and is actually one of the largest greenhouses in all of Europe!

When visiting Parc Phoenix, you’ll also meet several different animals that are either free or live in the park’s mini zoo. You can meet and greet flamingos, owls, otters, turtles, iguanas, and spiders. Oh and before you get extremely scared like I would, the spiders are thankfully inside the terrariums! Phew! It’s a safe place to visit then!

Admission: 5 € for adults. 3 € for children between 12 and 18 years. Free to visit for children under 12 years. / Official site: https://www.parc-phoenix.org/

9. Hotel Negresco

Hotel Negresco is perhaps the most iconic building along the Promenade des Anglais . This 5-star luxury hotel has been a popular hot spot for royalty, politicians, and celebrities since 1913! It’s not exactly cheap to stay overnight at the hotel, but there’s a slightly more affordable bar and restaurant for those who do not exactly carry gold in their pockets.

In 2003, the Hotel Negresco was listed as a National Historic Building and is a member of Leading Hotels of the World! Besides being a luxury hotel with many facilities, Hotel Negresco also has an impressive collection of art with quality paintings, statues, and much more from no less than five centuries!

Admission: Free to visit. / Official site: https://www.hotel-negresco-nice.com/en

16 Best Things to Do in Nice, France - Hotel Negresco - Endless Travel Destinations

10. Musée Matisse

The world-famous French artist Henri Matisse was born in northern France but lived in Nice for almost 40 years of his life. He loved Nice so much that he’s actually buried in the cemetery of the Monastère de Cimiez in Nice. Not far from the cemetery is the Musée Matisse located in a historic red villa surrounded by beautiful gardens with olive groves.

The museum is made in honor of Henri Matisse and is home to one of the world’s largest collections of his works. His great talent can be seen in thousands of paintings, photos, drawings, sculptures, and ceramics made by Henri Matisse himself. In addition, the Musée Matisse also has a large collection of changing exhibitions with more unknown works of art.

Admission: 10 €. Free for children under 18, students, unemployed and disabled civilians. / Official site: http://www.musee-matisse-nice.org/?_locale=en

11. Monastére de Cimiez

Now that we’re already talking about Monastére de Cimiez, it’s obviously one of the best things to do in Nice, too. It may sound a bit dramatic that a cemetery is a must-see in Nice, but it’s actually a very beautiful place! The cemetery is an experience in itself and there are several great artists buried on the site, such as the French artist Henri Matisse.

To be honest, this isn’t why you should visit Monastére de Cimiez. The reason you have to go up here is because of the beautiful gardens and the old monastery. Oh and I almost forgot the best part … Of course you’ll also have to go up here to visit the terrace from which there’s an extremely amazing view of Nice!

12. Place Massena

Place Massena is the main square and is almost unavoidable during your trip to Nice. The square is located in the heart of Nice and separates the new part of the city from the old part. It’s a very beautiful square with thousands of black and white square tiles, sparkling fountains, and statues. If you get hungry or just need to relax, Place Massena is surrounded by charming buildings with lots of restaurants.

When visiting Place Massena, don’t forget to see the Fountain of the Sun . This statue consists of a fountain with a seven-meter high statue of Apollo surrounded by smaller statues representing Earth, Mars, Mercury, Venus, and Saturn. Also, don’t miss the seven men on high pillars representing the seven continents of the world. Every night, the statues become even more beautiful as they light up in changing colors!

16 Best Things to Do in Nice, France - Place Massena - Endless Travel Destinations

13. Nice Cathedral

Nice Cathedral or Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is located in the old town of Vieille Ville. From the outside, the cathedral isn’t exactly as impressive as other cathedrals in Nice. But when you step inside, you’ll be amazed at the beauty of this Roman Catholic cathedral!

Many people call it the most ornate cathedral in Nice, and it’s certainly not without reason! Inside there are ten highly decorated baroque chapels with impressive altars, paintings, and sculptures. Nice Cathedral is still used for worship, so be sure to check the schedules before your visit.

Admission: Free to visit. / Official site: https://cathedrale-nice.fr/

14. Avenue Jean Médecin

If you want to go shopping in Nice, then you have to take a stroll on Avenue Jean Médecin! When we’re talking about shopping in Nice, this is the main street where you’ll find countless international shops, French boutiques, department stores, and restaurants. Avenue Jean Médecin is one of the best things to do in Nice, for all those who want to spend some money on shopping!

There’s certainly a deeper meaning to why the street is called Nice´s answer on Oxford Street in London. Go there and find out why! But uh, remember your credit card, it can be hard to resist all the clothes, shoes, bags – and yes yes everything else too! Being a shopaholic in a world with so many temptations is not quite easy… Haha!

15. Port Lympia

The colorful port of Nice is worth a visit because it’s a charming area with churches, monuments, and stories from both world wars! Take a walk along the harbor and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere. Breathe in the scent of the sea and enjoy the views of the area with its many fishing boats, tour boats, luxury yachts, and cruises. You can also grab a cup of coffee or enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants in Port Lympia.

Port Lympia - Endless Travel Destinations

16. I Love Nice Sign

If you’re looking for the perfect picture during your trip to Nice, you simply have to visit this sign! The I Love Nice Sign is a relatively new attraction in Nice and isn’t that well known, at least not yet. But in my opinion, it’s still one of the best things to do in Nice! Who would not want a picture in front of this signature sign when visiting Nice? I would without a doubt!

Now we got through the list of the best things to do in Nice, France. What are your favorite things to do in Nice? What are you looking forward to on your trip to Nice? Feel free to leave a comment!

Planning a trip to France? You might also want to check out this article:

14 best places to stay in france, 18 very best things to do in paris, like this article pin it for later.

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I have been to France twice with my boyfriend. The first was in 2016, and the last was in 2019, before the pandemic kicked off. We have been to the city of light, Paris and Relms and Marseillesm but we don’t have the chance to visit Nice. I heard so many amazing things about nice, and this is our main priority on our third trip.

Anna Everywhere

10 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

10 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

Although  I studied in Paris for a while  and visited both larger and smaller towns around France, I never had a chance to explore the French Riviera till much later. And when I did, it was amazing! The South of France doesn’t need much of an introduction. It’s one of the most popular, luxurious, and therefore expensive places in the world.

Even before I landed, the descent on the plane was already incredible! The runway is right next to the sea, making the view one of the most gorgeous I’ve ever seen.

The city of Nice was much cheaper than I expected, I actually thought it was more affordable than Paris. I should also mention that the locals in Nice are much nicer than Parisians and welcome you in a very pleasant way.

With its history and so many Italian influences on its culture, food, and art, often a visit to Nice feels like a visit to Italy. Whether you visit for a short weekend trip or have many days to spend exploring this side of the French Riviera, here are the top things to do in Nice.

Best Things to Do in Nice France

1. stroll along the promenade des anglais.

must visit places in nice france

A 7 km (4 miles) stretch of road along the beachfront in Nice, the Promenade des Anglais or La Prom in short was built in 1820. The building of the promenade was funded by Reverend Lewis Way and the parishioners of the Holy Trinity Anglican Church.

The main reason for building the promenade was for the use of the English who holidayed there. It was called Camin des Anglés or the English Way in the Nicois dialect .

La Promenade des Anglais has stood the test of time and is now a popular place for strolls or picnics, and there are even special lanes for riding bikes or skateboarding.

The views of the promenade are amazing from the luxurious Hotel Negresco which itself is a landmark built in 1912.

2. Enjoy the Beach

must visit places in nice france

You can’t stay in a town on the French Riviera and not spend a day enjoying some sun . The beaches in France are some of the best in the world, and Nice is no exception.

With amazing views of the Bay of Angels, the Plage de la Réserve is a rocky beach frequented by locals. The infamous Coco Beach isn’t really a beach. It’s a rocky area with stone steps and iron ladders leading down to the water that’s perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

Le Voilier Plage and Carras Beach are good public beaches. Opera Plage, Plage Riveau Beach, Castel Beach, Ruhl Beach, Le Galet, and Blue Beach are some privately owned beaches that you can use if you visit their restaurants.

If you’re renting a car in France , another beach a short drive from Nice that is a must-visit is the Plage des Marinières in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Visible from the train track that runs right behind it, this sandy beach is surronded by beautiful trees and a blue harbor.

3. Visit Place Massena

must visit places in nice france

The moment I stepped onto the Place Massena I was amazed at how lively it was. There were a lot of kids playing in the local fountain, others dancing, and all of this was ‘observed’ by statues of naked men sitting on pillars above the square.

A short walk from Old Town and the Promenade des Anglais, the square is named after Andre Massena, the Duke of Rivoli who was called l’Enfant chéri de la Victoire  (the Dear Child of Victory) because of his illustrious career in Napoleon’s army.

Designed by Joseph Vernier in 1843, the square is lined with palm trees, and is the spot where most public celebrations and events are held.

4. Take a Food Tour

must visit places in nice france

Despite being known for its beaches, yachts, and famous film festival, Nice is also a dream destination for foodies. While the  salade Niçoise  with egg, Dijon, anchovies, and tomato is Nice’s most well-known dish , the jewel in the Côte d’Azur’s crown has an abundance of less famous local specialties just waiting to be discovered by hungry visitors.

Unfortunately, there is only a certain amount of food you can eat per day so food tours are a nice convenient way to sample a lot of different dishes at amazing locations. There are many good options too, from food walks in Vieux Nice to private food tours .

must visit places in nice france

You’ll enjoy tasting the socca, a hot and crispy pancake with a soft filling. Or visit the meat market where you can also get a drink at the bar inside, and eat a homemade pissaladiere , which is a tart with onions.

Eating grilled peppers and stuffed farcis , tasting weird ice creams at the famous Fenocchio, enjoying goat cheese at the local market, there’s so much of culture to savor in Nice , and you can experience both local markets and the best of Old Nice with a food tour.

5. Nightlife

must visit places in nice france

Lazy beach days must be followed by vibrant party nights, and Nice is a party hotspot all year round. Trendy bars, jazzy cafes and chic nightclubs see locals and visitors rocking the night away.

Put the High Club, Le Shapko, Pub Pompei, Les Trois Diables, Bar du Negresco, and Pub Akathor on your radar.

6. Discover the crypt of Nice

Found during the construction of a tramline in 2004 , La Crypte Archaeologique Nice is not really a crypt. It’s more of a large area that’s home to ancient fortifications dating back to 1380.

The ruins are part of the Nice Chateau or Castle Hill that was destroyed in 1706 , and are located underneath the Place Garibaldi in an area covering 2000 sq km.

Take the tour and you’ll see moats, turrets, walls, outbuildings, and even a drawbridge. Because it has only one entrance, only 15 visitors are allowed at a time.

7. Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Musée d’art Moderne et d’art Contemporain  (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art), usually referred to as  MAMAC opened in Place Yves Klein in 1990. The museum showcases avant-garde art from well-known to lesser-known artists.

Yves Klein, Francois Dufrene, Andy Warhol, Claude Pages, and Niki de Saint Phalle are just some of the artists whose creations you’ll see here. You can visit Le MAMAC on your own or club it with other attractions on a full-day tour of Nice.

8. See the Russian Orthodox Church

must visit places in nice france

Tsar Nicholas II of Russia realized his mother Maria Feodorovna’s dream of building a Russian Orthodox church in France that had truly Russian design and embellishments. From 1903 to 1912, the exuberant Russian Cathedral was built, with beautiful domes, spires, and bells all funded by Tsar Nicholas II.

With a detailed iconostasis around the choir area, wooden carvings and murals, ornate frescoes and an interior that’s shaped like a Greek cross, this church situated on Avenue Nicolas II is a must-visit. Still in use today, it’s considered one of the important Russian Orthodox buildings outside of Russia.

9. Find The Mini Replica of the Statue of Liberty

There are many replicas of the infamous Statue of Liberty all over the world. And while the original statue built by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in 1886 stands 154 feet tall, its replicas vary in size .

France too has her fair share of Lady Liberty. You’ll find replicas in Paris, Bordeaux, Colmar, Barentin, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, Lyon, Limoges, Roybon, and more.

In Nice too, there’s a small replica on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. You might not see it if you stroll by.

Set up in Feb 2014 on the Quai des Etats Unis against the backdrop of the Opera House, this statue commemorates World War I. It looks out at the Mediterranean sea, rests on a 6-feet high plinth, and is just 4.3 feet high. Blink and you’ll is it!

10. Take a Day Trip To Neighboring Towns

must visit places in nice france

A stay in the South of France isn’t complete without visiting at least a few of the charming towns and villages nearby. It’s easy to incorporate all these South of France towns into your itinerary by basing yourself in Nice and taking day trips to towns such as Eze, Villefranche, Monaco, or Cannes.

Home to the International Film Festival, Cannes is a town associated with media, creativity, and luxury . It’s also home to beautiful beaches, grand hotels and villas, and the Fort of St Marguerite where the Man in the Iron Mask was held. Visit Cannes to rub shoulders with the who’s who and the rich and famous.

Monaco is a small principality to the East of France that captured hearts when Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier. Home to panoramic landscapes, beautiful palaces, rich harbors, and extravagant casinos, it’s one place that must be added to the bucket list.

Halfway to Monaco, Eze is a small town in the mountains that’s home to the church of Notre Dame de l’Assomption that can be seen for miles around. It’s also home to beautiful gardens, and picturesque cafes and restaurants. It’s my personal favorite and must-visit if you’re going to Monaco as it’s on the way.

Part of the Cote D’Azur, Villefranche is often considered a suburb of Nice and is a nice getaway to spend a relaxing day by the water. Home to quaint churches like the 16th century Chapelle Saint-Pierre and the Église Saint-Michel from the 1750s, Villefranche Sur Mer is perfect for a day spent just ambling around town.

must visit places in nice france

Where to Stay in Nice

Luxurious hotels in nice, france.

Hotel Negresco – Built in 1912 by Henri Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais the rosy pink dome and facade lead you to interiors decorated with impressive antique and contemporary art. 

ABA Luxury B&B – Place Masséna – Large, beautiful, and scenic rooms at Place Massena with chandeliers hung from the ceilings and great sea views.

Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée – Lovely art-deco style hotel on the Promenade des Anglais featuring an onsite casino and amazing sea views.

Mid-Range Hotels in Nice, France

Hotel Suisse – Just minutes from La Cours with awesome views of the Promenade Des Anglais, this Italian-style hotel features its own private beach .

Hôtel Nice Azur Riviera – Right in the heart of Nice, within walking distance of all the major attractions.

Le Meridien Nice – A few steps from the Old Town on the Promenade des Anglais, you’ll love the views of the Baie des Anges from the hotel’s restaurant on the terrace.

So that’s my list of top things to do in Nice along with some excellent places to stay. Comment if you have questions!

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Pascal Sanchez

Sunday 17th of July 2016

I wish you the best,beautiful Anna Pascal from Nice(,France.)

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Best places to visit in france.

France is home to some of the most lively cities, bucolic villages and renowned wine regions on the globe. U.S. News considered factors like variety of attractions, lodging, weather and culinary scenes to create this ranking of the best places to visit in France. Whether you're seeking an action-packed sightseeing adventure or a relaxing wine retreat, you'll find a fun French vacation here. To influence next year's ranking, vote below for your favorite destinations in France.

Mont Saint-Michel

Montpellier, french alps, chamonix-mont-blanc, aix-en-provence, loire valley.

must visit places in nice france

As the world's best place to visit , it's no surprise that the electrifying City of Light tops this list. France's capital city is a year-round tourist destination with iconic attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower and incredible architecture (think: the dazzling Basilique du Sacré-Coeur). Not to mention, Paris offers unparalleled dining and shopping scenes and more museums than you could hope to visit in one trip. Keep in mind, Paris is often flooded with tourists and room rates can be pricey. If you're looking for a deal, travel in winter or early spring.

must visit places in nice france

The capital of the Alsace region offers the perfect mix of French and German culture thanks to its location on the France-Germany border. While here, travelers should see Strasbourg's Gothic-style cathedral and stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Petite France quarter with its half-timbered houses and postcard-worthy waterways. Plus, those with an interest in politics can tour several important European institutions during their visit, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. For an extra dose of charm, arrive in December to see one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets.

must visit places in nice france

Rising above the sea like a castle in a fairy tale, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of France's most-visited sights. Legend says the archangel Michael, the island's namesake, repeatedly appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches in dreams, telling him to build a church on top of the island in A.D. 708. Since its completion, it has become an important pilgrimage site for Christians and European intellectuals. Visitors can tour the picturesque abbey and admire its incredible medieval architecture or wander its surrounding streets, which are lined with tiny shops and quaint cafes.

must visit places in nice france

Dubbed La Ville Rose due to the prominence of distinctive clay bricks in its architecture, Toulouse is a feast for the eyes. Throughout this city, which is located in the South of France, you'll find marvels like the neoclassical Le Capitole on the main square, the stately Basilica of Saint-Sernin (an 11th-century UNESCO site) and the Hôtel d’Assézat, which houses a noteworthy art gallery. What's more, several canals with shady footpaths pass through the city, including the idyllic Canal du Midi. For some of the best views of Toulouse, take a cruise on the River Garonne, or just sunbathe on its banks.

must visit places in nice france

Sunny Montpellier glows with a combination of old world charm and a trendy university lifestyle. This city in the south of France evokes Parisian appeal with Haussmann architecture and stylish promenades. And like Paris, adornment is everywhere in Montpellier, from fashionable boutiques to street art to France's oldest botanical garden. Plus, since Montpellier is located 7 miles from the coast of the Mediterranean, a beach break is close at hand. Once the sun sets, take part in the city's youthful nightlife scene, which includes everything from music halls to dance clubs.

must visit places in nice france

It's easy to see why Colmar, located in the heart of Alsace's wine region, is considered one of France's most beautiful cities. Colorful houses that look as if they belong in a fairy tale line the Little Venice district, where you can take a boat tour through Colmar's canals or reach boutiques and eateries on foot. The setting is picturesque regardless of when you vacation here, but for even more charm, visit Colmar at night when lights illuminate the city during annual events like the Colmar International Festival, Alsace's wine fair and Colmar's Christmas market.

must visit places in nice france

To see some of France's most spectacular art and architecture, head to Avignon. This city in southeastern France is full of stunning structures, including the 14th-century Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, and the arched bridge, Pont d'Avignon. A number of can't-miss museums are spread throughout Avignon as well, such as the Musée Angladon, which houses works by highly regarded artists like Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh. Visit in July to attend the Festival d'Avignon, one of the world's largest performing arts festivals.

must visit places in nice france

If your ideal French vacation involves a little more nature and a little less city, head to the French Alps . Here, you'll find some of the best ski slopes in Europe, as well as beautiful scenery that rivals any work of art or architecture. In summer, the typically snow-covered mountains thaw just enough to create perfect conditions for hiking and biking. Enchanting villages sit at the base of the range, offering several places to unwind when you've had enough fun on the slopes or trails.

must visit places in nice france

Despite its war-filled past, this region in northern France is also a place of great beauty and culture. Étretat's white cliffs are a great place to take in the area's natural scenery. Then, visit the region's capital city, Rouen, to admire works of art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and stroll past the quaint half-timbered houses. Be sure to sample some of the city's culinary specialties to see why it is now a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Or, see some of the remnants of Normandy's heavy history at the D-Day Landing Beaches and The Bayeux Tapestry.

must visit places in nice france

Glamorous Nice occupies a picturesque spot along the French Riviera. Beach bums and culture hounds alike will enjoy the city's pebbly shores, engaging museums, boutique shops and Baroque-style palaces. Be sure to stroll along the coastline's Promenade des Anglais and pick up some fresh flowers and produce at the vibrant Cours Saleya market, located in old town. You'll likely spend a pretty penny on lodging and beach access, but experiencing Nice is worth it. To save some coin, travel between mid-March and April or from September to October, the area's shoulder seasons.

must visit places in nice france

Often called "France's Isle of Beauty," Corsica features diverse landscapes and a unique culture that make it seem like a miniature continent. The Mediterranean island's clear blue water and white sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling and kayaking, while its mountainous terrain and dense forests provide ample opportunities to hike trails like the highly regarded (albeit challenging) GR20. Those looking to take in some history can visit the Maison Bonaparte museum to see Napoleon's birthplace. What's more, Corsica offers a one-of-a-kind food scene that showcases various local delicacies, such as lonzu (dry-cured ham) and brocciu (cheese).

must visit places in nice france

While it may not be as well known as big-name cities like Paris, Lyon competes with the best of them. Despite being the third-largest city in France, Lyon is much calmer and less touristy than other similarly sized destinations. The streets are filled with public art, including the city's famous trompe l'oeil murals, and there are museums that focus on everything from movies to history. Plus, it's surrounded by hundreds of wineries and home to 4,000-plus restaurants, several of which boast Michelin stars, making it especially appealing to oenophiles and foodies.

must visit places in nice france

If you love to ski, chances are you'll enjoy shredding powder at Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe. In the bustling Chamonix (the main place to stay if you want to ski at Mont Blanc), you'll have easy access to the longest off-piste run in the world (Vallée Blanche) and rugged, challenging slopes. But this destination, which hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, offers more than just top-notch skiing. Chamonix is also a great place to go hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting. For some family-friendly fun, visit the town's adventure park to zip down its Alpine coaster and various slides.

must visit places in nice france

Quaint, charming Aix-en-Provence is a university city known for its tree-lined boulevards, cute cafes and lively markets. Life moves at a more leisurely pace here than in other French cities, meaning it's the perfect place for travelers to get lost in the scenic streets. Make sure to add Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur and Le Grand Marché – two of the city's top attractions – to your itinerary. You can also see where artist Paul Cézanne (an Aix-en-Provence native) painted some of his masterpieces at Atelier de Cezanne, or venture outside of the city to see the Provencal scenes that inspired him.

must visit places in nice france

Vincent Van Gogh fans may recognize the streetscapes of Arles: This small city in Provence inspired some of the artist's best-known works with its bright colors and rustic feel. Art aficionados can walk in Van Gogh's footsteps and explore his favorite haunts on a walking tour through this romantic city or visit the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh Arles. Beyond this noteworthy connection, Arles is renowned for its Roman ruins, including a two-tiered amphitheater, the Alyscamps necropolis and the Constantine Baths. And as the gateway to the Camargue region, Arles is a great base for visitors looking to explore this marshy, flamingo-filled area.

must visit places in nice france

Another popular wine region, Burgundy is home to rolling hills, superior cuisine and an array of vineyards. Those visiting Burgundy must spend time exploring the medieval villages, historical abbeys and museums that call this area home. Dijon, the region's history-rich capital, makes a great home base for touring the area. And, of course, you can't leave without trying the region's wine, which mainly uses the pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, and dining on some of its rich cuisine.

must visit places in nice france

Northwestern France's Brittany region stands out from the rest of the country in more ways than one. Locals are proud and protective of their Celtic heritage, including their unique language, traditions and festivals. As a result, visitors will find many well-preserved historical sites throughout the area, including prehistoric megaliths and medieval towns like Saint-Malo, a popular port town with a 12th-century citadel. Brittany also features breathtaking coastlines with fantastic beaches that are known for their phenomenal waves for surfing, dive spots and dolphin-spotting opportunities. 

must visit places in nice france

As the capital of France's Champagne region, Reims is a must-visit destination for both history buffs and those who love bubbly. The city offers many Champagne cellars where visitors can learn about how the popular wine is produced before tasting it. Additionally, Reims features breathtaking Gothic architecture at attractions like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame at Reims, where 25 French monarchs were crowned between 1223 and 1825, and the adjacent Palace of Tau, the former residence of France's archbishops. No visit would be complete without perusing the exhibits in one of Reims' museums, which cover a range of topics from war history to art and automobiles.

must visit places in nice france

The gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is perfectly situated for touring the region's wineries. But with Tours' historical elements and prime location along the Loire River, you may just want to stay in town. Place Plumereau, a medieval marketplace that remains one of the city's oldest squares, exudes irresistible charm with half-timbered houses, while churches like the Saint-Gatien Cathedral stun with their stately façades. Visitors will also have their pick of green spaces, from parks like Prébendes d’Oé Garden to riverside guinguettes (open-air cafes) at Tours sur Loire. What's more, several of the region's famed châteaux (including the Château de Villandry) sit just outside the city.

must visit places in nice france

For a romantic escape, visit the Loire Valley in central France. Situated along the Loire River, the area is peppered with châteaux, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, farms and wineries renowned for their sauvignon blanc. The region itself is even a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty and historical villages. Plan to spend some time in a few of the valley's laid-back cities and towns, such as Orléans and Saumur, and you can't miss the emblematic Château de Chambord.

must visit places in nice france

This wine-producing hub woos travelers with its riverbank location and surrounding countryside. With nearly 300,000 acres of vineyards, Bordeaux offers ample choices for those looking to sip some of the best (typically bold red) wines in the world. In the city center, marvel at the Gothic-style Basilique Saint Michel, walk across the Pont de Pierre (a beautiful stone bridge), snap a photo of the iconic Place de la Bourse and enjoy the Jardin Public's pathways and flora.

must visit places in nice france

Located on the French Riviera just 8 miles from Nice, the tiny hilltop village of Èze makes for an excellent daytrip. The best way to spend your time in this medieval town is meandering through its cobbled streets that look as though they've been pulled from a postcard. In doing so, you'll find picturesque views of the coast, as well as luxury hotels and shops from another era. Top sights include the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption and Jardin Exotique d'Èze, as well as the walking path of Nietzsche, who was inspired to write here. Before leaving town, stop by the Fragonard Parfumeur factory for a fragrant tour.

must visit places in nice france

Located 35 miles northeast of Montpellier, Nîmes delights history buffs with some of the world's best-preserved Roman treasures like its emblematic arena and La Maison Carrée, a temple dating back to 10 B.C. Museums throughout Nîmes also cover its past. But lest you get the wrong impression, Nîmes is anything but stuffy. The city embraces the joie de vivre of the South of France with countless festivals, from structured events like the concert lineups of the Festival de Nîmes to lively Ferias de Nîmes – multi-day celebrations that occur twice a year at Pentecost and in September, and center around bullfighting, dancing and music.

must visit places in nice france

France's oldest and second-largest city has become an exciting, up-and-coming tourist destination. Marseille has a number of sights to see, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Château d'If, the ominous prison made famous by Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo." When the weather is nice, the rocky cliffs and secluded beaches of the Calanques are excellent for swimming, boating and hiking. No trip to Marseille would be complete without a stop by the Mucem, a museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization. Plus, its rooftop terrace makes the perfect vantage point to admire the city.

must visit places in nice france

Famous for its annual film festival in May, Cannes is just as impressive (and much less congested) other times of the year. Cannes is another French Riviera hot spot that welcomes travelers looking for a little relaxation (think: sun-soaked beaches and meandering walks through the steep streets of Le Suquet, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods). Visitors can sightsee as they stroll along La Croisette, a 2-mile-long promenade, or sit down for an exquisite meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Feeling lucky? Stop by one of Cannes' casinos.

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13 of the best places to visit in France

Mary Novakovich

Nov 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Afro mother and her daughter bonding together outdoors at the lavender field

Have you been to France if you haven't got a shot in the lavender fields of Provence? © iStock / Getty Images

France  consistently tops the list as the world’s most visited destination – and it doesn’t take much imagination to see why.

Its winning formula of captivating cities, awe-inspiring landscapes – including the  Alps and the  Pyrenees – an enviable coastline and some of the world’s best food and wine is hard to resist. Affordable public transportation and a sprawling network of motorways mean you can cover a lot of ground if you want to visit more than one region. But it’s just as tempting to stick to one place and enjoy the country's seductive lifestyle.

Wondering where to go in France? Have a look at these top destinations for some inspiration.

A man performs a trick on a skateboard in a square in Paris

1. Paris has great urban vibes

Much as you’d like to tick the main sights of  Paris off your list – world-class art at the  Louvre and  Musée d’Orsay , the  Eiffel Tower ,  Sacré-Coeur – make time for some of its lesser-known attractions. Wander the atmospheric streets of the  Marais – popping into the free  Musée Carnavalet as well as  Musée Picasso – before checking out the vintage shops of the 10th arrondissement . Make your way over to buzzing Belleville and take in fabulous views of Paris from Parc de Belleville. For full-on greenery in the city, follow the footpaths around the elegant 19th-century  Parc des Buttes-Chaumont .

Local tip : For authentic local dining experiences, avoid restaurants that tout a menu touristique, or display a sample meal of plastic food on the pavement outside.

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in France

2. the loire valley's castles are best explored by bike.

At some point, you’ll want to be on two wheels as you explore the gently rolling landscapes of the  Loire Valley – especially as cycling is made so much easier thanks to the extensive Vélo Verte network of bike routes. Combine visiting vineyards with glimpses into lavish Renaissance life in the 42 sumptuous chateaux, particularly the fantastically elaborate  Chateau de Chenonceau and the more intimate and romantic  Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau on its own island on the Indre tributary.

Local tip:  Don't leave your bicycle locked up outside on the street overnight if you want to see it (or at least most of its parts) again. Some hotels offer enclosed bicycle parking. 

A cave frames the shoreline at Etretat, Normandy

3. Normandy’s coast is the place to learn about WWII history  

Normandy ’s long coastline is packed with historical landmarks, the D-Day beaches being the most striking. It’s impossible not to be moved by the many poignant memorials, including the  American cemetery at Omaha Beach and the  Juno Beach Centre at Courseulles-sur-Mer. Head further east, and you end up in a 19th-century time capsule in the alluring resorts of Cabourg, Deauville, Trouville and  Honfleur .

4. Strasbourg and Alsace’s wine routes are full of fairy-tale charm

Strasbourg is half-timbered heaven, with an outrageously picturesque old town set on its own island on the  River Ill . Wander round its imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame before relaxing on one of the cafe terraces in little Place du Marché Gayot just behind. The city is an excellent starting point for a tour of the  Alsace Wine Route, the oldest in France. Beer drinkers aren’t left out: Alsace is the only region in France that makes wine and beer.

People relaxing on a restaurant terrace in a village in France

5. The Luberon in Provence has many lovely hilltop villages

Terracotta rooftops and honey-colored stone cottages tumble down pine-clad hills, while vineyards crisscross the valleys with olive groves and lavender fields. That’s when you know you’re in Provence, specifically the wonderfully mellow  Luberon . Wander from village to hilltop village and lose yourself in the medieval lanes of some of the most gorgeous places in France. Put Bonnieux, Gordes, Ménerbes, Roussillon and Saignon on your list just for starters.

Local tip : Buy a baguette from the boulangerie (bakery) and fill it with Camembert, pâté or charcuterie (cold meats). Finish sweet with macarons, buttery kouign amann (Breton butter cake) or cherries in summer. 

6. Mont-St-Michel is a top destination for medieval history buffs

The 10th-century Benedictine abbey at  Mont-St-Michel casts its spell even before you arrive. The walk to this tidal island takes at least 20 minutes, during which you have this magnificent abbey, monastery and snail-like spiral of village houses in your sights. You certainly won’t tire of that view. Once you’ve explored the gothic interiors, take your pick from one of the panoramic restaurants circling the island.

A paraglider prepares to head out from the top a sand dune

7. Dune du Pilat is France's most scenic place to camp

Soaring more than 100m (328ft) above sea level, the otherworldly Dune du Pilat is Europe’s tallest sand dune. Sheltered by the Arguin sandbank, its waters are much gentler than further up the Atlantic coast on the western side of Cap Ferret. It’s ringed with campsites, giving you not only one of the loveliest views but also utterly mesmerizing sunsets. When you’re not running up the mountain of sand, you’ll be transfixed by the antics of the paragliders who rarely leave this place.

Local tip : There is a large car park about 400 meters (437 yards) from the dune, which charges a small fee for parking. However, you cannot park here overnight without being fined €50. 

8. Lyon is a top food destination

Even Parisians have to admit that  Lyon is gastronomic royalty in France. Bring a big appetite to do justice to eating in Lyon’s trademark bouchons , intimate little bistros that specialize in hearty meat-heavy lyonnaise cuisine. Start your bouchon tour in the UNESCO-listed Renaissance lanes of Vieux Lyon, where you can also spot the old secret passageways known as traboules .

A woman walks carefully along a wall in the village of Saint Emilion in France

9. Bordeaux is the best place to go for wine lovers

Mixing easy elegance with liveliness, France’s wine capital hums with the sounds of people enjoying themselves in  Bordeaux ’s cafe-filled 18th-century lanes of Saint-Pierre and Place du Parlement. Take the pleasant, pedestrianized path along the River Garonne to  La Cité du Vin , whose audacious design holds a thoroughly enjoyable museum celebrating wine from Bordeaux and beyond.

Local tip : Dress up when dining out, even at mid-range restaurants, clubs and bars. Leave the jeans and sneakers in your suitcase (unless you're at the local village bar where a more casual style is fine).

10. Annecy has the best Alpine beauty

On the doorstep of the French Alps,  Annecy is another one of those sigh-inducing gorgeous cities that France does so well. Its medieval heart squeezes into gaps between the Thiou River and Canal, with tall pastel-colored townhouses towering over the quayside cafes. You can’t miss the  Vieille Ville ’s most distinctive landmark,  Palais de l’Île , a medieval castle and former prison that’s now a museum. Your wanderings will inevitably take you to the glorious shores of Lake Annecy, one of France’s most beautiful.

11. Biarritz and Basque Country is packed with boho chic

Royalty has been flocking to  Biarritz for more than two centuries since Napoleon III’s mother, Queen Hortense, fell in love with this fishing village on the Atlantic coast. Then the surfers joined in from the 1950s onward, bringing some laid-back cool to go with Biarritz’s superb beaches. Once you’ve had a swim in the  Grande Plage and  Plage de la Côte des Basques , check out the  Basque Country coastal towns of  Bayonne and  St-Jean-de-Luz before heading into the Pyrenees.

12. Nice is a vibrant taste of life on the Mediterranean

The sun-drenched capital of the Côte d’Azur is everything you want in a Mediterranean city, and then some. Explore the labyrinthine lanes of  Vieux Nice , with an obligatory trawl through the morning food market at  Cours Saleya  before taking in the views from the top of  Colline du Chateau . Chill out on one of  Nice ’s many beaches before getting a culture fix at the  Chagall and  Matisse museums. Hop on one of the most scenic train lines in Europe and pop into the attractive coastal villages of  Villefranche-sur-Mer and  Èze .

Planning tip: If you're heading to the Côte d’Azur in May, book time to get over to star-studded Cannes for Europe's biggest cinema extravaganza. Every evening from 9:30pm, the Cinéma de la Plage provides free open-air screenings on the beachfront.

A woman hikes up a path towards a mountain peak

13. Auvergne has a captivating natural landscape

The lush volcanic landscape of the  Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne is one of the most dramatic in France. Among its four volcanic massifs, the green-covered lava domes, cinder cones and craters of the Chaîne des Puys – more than 80 volcanoes – are a dream to explore on foot, on two wheels or from an exhilarating paraglide flight.

Local tip : If you're traveling with children, head to the surprisingly educative Vulcania theme park and learn about Auvergne's long-extinct volcanoes. 

This article was first published June 2012 and updated November 2023

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Yardbarker

24 must-visit destinations in the South of France

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

<p>After Paris, the South of France is the most popular region for visitors. There are so many amazing spots to visit, though. How does one choose an itinerary? Well, don’t worry. I’ve rounded up 24 of the best places to visit in the South of France!</p>

After Paris, the South of France is the most popular region for visitors. There are so many amazing spots to visit, though. How does one choose an itinerary? Well, don’t worry. I’ve rounded up 24 of the best places to visit in the South of France!

<p>Nice is the first destination that comes to most Americans' minds when considering a trip to the South of France. As the Côte d'Azur's largest city, it's likely where you'll arrive via either plane or train. Make sure to stroll the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean, climb the stairs up to the ruins of the old fortress (where you'll enjoy the best views in town), and wander narrow, cobblestone streets in Vieux Nice. </p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/20_egg_cellent_egg_myths_you_probably_still_believe_031324/s1__23538598'>20 egg-cellent egg myths you probably still believe</a></p>

Nice is the first destination that comes to most Americans' minds when considering a trip to the South of France. As the Côte d'Azur's largest city, it's likely where you'll arrive via either plane or train. Make sure to stroll the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean, climb the stairs up to the ruins of the old fortress (where you'll enjoy the best views in town), and wander narrow, cobblestone streets in Vieux Nice. 

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<p>Just across the border from Italy is this small but totally charming small town of Menton. Perched on a hill amongst the mountains, with the Mediterranean at foot, there really isn't a better base to discover the region. As a bonus, it's generally less crowded than Nice if you visit outside the two-week Lemon Festival in February (also worth checking out if you're okay with many more travelers in town).</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Just across the border from Italy is this small but totally charming small town of Menton. Perched on a hill amongst the mountains, with the Mediterranean at foot, there really isn't a better base to discover the region. As a bonus, it's generally less crowded than Nice if you visit outside the two-week Lemon Festival in February (also worth checking out if you're okay with many more travelers in town).

Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

<p>What used to be a lesser-known fishing village is now much more popular thanks to the hit series <em>Emily in Paris</em>. In the second episode of the second season, the character French people love to hate wakes up in this picturesque town on the French Riviera. Villefranche-sur-Mer is quieter than other locations in the area, but that’s what makes it the perfect vacation spot.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/protein_packed_foods_that_will_help_fuel_your_muscles_031324/s1__34248305'>Protein-packed foods that will help fuel your muscles</a></p>

Villefranche-sur-Mer

What used to be a lesser-known fishing village is now much more popular thanks to the hit series Emily in Paris . In the second episode of the second season, the character French people love to hate wakes up in this picturesque town on the French Riviera. Villefranche-sur-Mer is quieter than other locations in the area, but that’s what makes it the perfect vacation spot.

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<p>Eze is a fantastic medieval town in the mountains above the Mediterranean. It's located a 15-minute train ride from Nice and is a great day trip!</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Eze is a fantastic medieval town in the mountains above the Mediterranean. It's located a 15-minute train ride from Nice and is a great day trip!

<p>Besides Nice, Monaco is the other destination in southern France that Americans are most familiar with. Known for insane wealth, super yachts, a famous casino, and F1, this small city-state is actually its own country. Though surrounded by France on all sides, it makes for an easy day trip from Menton or Nice.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/13_foods_drinks_that_cause_bad_breath_and_13_that_combat_it_031324/s1__36110171'>13 foods & drinks that cause bad breath and 13 that combat it</a></p>

Besides Nice, Monaco is the other destination in southern France that Americans are most familiar with. Known for insane wealth, super yachts, a famous casino, and F1, this small city-state is actually its own country. Though surrounded by France on all sides, it makes for an easy day trip from Menton or Nice.

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<p>If you love small towns along the water, then you'll love Cassis. Like Menton, it's a great alternative base and jumping-off point to explore Calanques National Park. The first calanque (small cove) is just a 30-minute walk from town.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

If you love small towns along the water, then you'll love Cassis. Like Menton, it's a great alternative base and jumping-off point to explore Calanques National Park. The first calanque (small cove) is just a 30-minute walk from town.

<p>France's second-largest city is located right on the Mediterranean, a nice change of pace from Paris. You can eat well cheaply at Les Halles (the public market) in Old Port, visit two amazing cathedrals that tower above the city, and learn about the history at the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. And don't miss Le Panier, Marseille's hippest neighborhood!</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/22_meals_perfect_for_following_mediterranean_diet_031324/s1__38389200'>22 meals perfect for following Mediterranean diet</a></p>

France's second-largest city is located right on the Mediterranean, a nice change of pace from Paris. You can eat well cheaply at Les Halles (the public market) in Old Port, visit two amazing cathedrals that tower above the city, and learn about the history at the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. And don't miss Le Panier, Marseille's hippest neighborhood!

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<p>In the Drôme department of inland Provence lies storybook-worthy Grignan. The hilltop town is perched above lavender fields and houses an impressive castle that once served as the residence for the Ademar family in the 12th century.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

In the Drôme department of inland Provence lies storybook-worthy Grignan. The hilltop town is perched above lavender fields and houses an impressive castle that once served as the residence for the Ademar family in the 12th century.

<p>One of the most popular small towns in Provence, Les Baux is frequented for a reason. The old rocky ruins of the fortified town are well-preserved and make for a fantastic place to visit.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/how_old_are_these_20_iconic_snack_food_companies_031324/s1__23223418'>How old are these 20 iconic snack food companies?</a></p>

Les Baux-de-Provence

One of the most popular small towns in Provence, Les Baux is frequented for a reason. The old rocky ruins of the fortified town are well-preserved and make for a fantastic place to visit.

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<p>Italy isn't the only country with Roman ruins worth visiting! Arles, just south of Avignon, has a huge Roman arena and an adorable town that are well worth visiting.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Italy isn't the only country with Roman ruins worth visiting! Arles, just south of Avignon, has a huge Roman arena and an adorable town that are well worth visiting.

<p>Avignon is a beautiful town between Lyon and Marseille and a great base for exploring Provence. Most famous for being the one-time residence of the Pope, back in the 14th century when Rome was undergoing a lot of turmoil, the former Palais du Pope is a must-see.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/23_foods_that_make_us_nostalgic_for_the_90s_031324/s1__39034591'>23 foods that make us nostalgic for the ‘90s</a></p>

Avignon is a beautiful town between Lyon and Marseille and a great base for exploring Provence. Most famous for being the one-time residence of the Pope, back in the 14th century when Rome was undergoing a lot of turmoil, the former Palais du Pope is a must-see.

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<p>As far east into the mountains as you can go and still be in Provence, Nyons is known as “la ville du soleil” or the “sun city.” So, most days, you’ll be graced by its presence. It's also a great hiking destination for all levels.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

As far east into the mountains as you can go and still be in Provence, Nyons is known as “la ville du soleil” or the “sun city.” So, most days, you’ll be graced by its presence. It's also a great hiking destination for all levels.

<p>Another great southern hiking location, Sisteron is the perfect mix of the Alps and Provence. The Durance River runs right through town, and the peaks tower above. It's great for outdoor lovers.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/20_tasty_meals_that_you_can_make_with_cold_cuts_031324/s1__20412076'>20 tasty meals that you can make with cold cuts</a></p>

Another great southern hiking location, Sisteron is the perfect mix of the Alps and Provence. The Durance River runs right through town, and the peaks tower above. It's great for outdoor lovers.

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<p>Just north of Marseille is this picture-perfect southern France town. There isn't much in the way of sites, but if you're in the mood to walk around and shop leisurely at some of the best boutiques in France, Aix is your place.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Aix-en-Provence

Just north of Marseille is this picture-perfect southern France town. There isn't much in the way of sites, but if you're in the mood to walk around and shop leisurely at some of the best boutiques in France, Aix is your place.

<p>A smaller city near Avignon, Nimes is most famous for its Roman arena and amphitheater, both of which are very well preserved.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/the_13_most_scenic_us_mountain_towns_031324/s1__38605886'>The 13 most scenic US mountain towns</a></p>

A smaller city near Avignon, Nimes is most famous for its Roman arena and amphitheater, both of which are very well preserved.

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<p>Orange is a fantastic town a few minutes from Avignon. It has one of the most impressive arenas from Roman times. It also has a thriving art community, and you'll have a great time browsing boutiques all around town.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Orange is a fantastic town a few minutes from Avignon. It has one of the most impressive arenas from Roman times. It also has a thriving art community, and you'll have a great time browsing boutiques all around town.

<p>The Ardèche region is full of characteristic villages, great wineries, and breathtaking nature. And nowhere lives up to the last category, like the large gorge in the regional park. Visit in summer to swim and kayak in its clear waters, but be prepared to share it with plenty of other visitors!</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/add_these_20_unusual_us_destinations_to_your_travel_bucket_list_031324/s1__39105967'>Add these 20 unusual U.S. destinations to your travel bucket list</a></p>

Gorge de l'Ardèche

The Ardèche region is full of characteristic villages, great wineries, and breathtaking nature. And nowhere lives up to the last category, like the large gorge in the regional park. Visit in summer to swim and kayak in its clear waters, but be prepared to share it with plenty of other visitors!

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<p>This student city in the center of southern France doesn't receive the attention it absolutely deserves! The streets are perfect for wandering, the markets and restaurants have some of the most affordable food in the region, and the beach is just an easy bike or tram ride away.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Montpellier

This student city in the center of southern France doesn't receive the attention it absolutely deserves! The streets are perfect for wandering, the markets and restaurants have some of the most affordable food in the region, and the beach is just an easy bike or tram ride away.

<p>Often overlooked in favor of towns further east along the Mediterranean, Narbonne is perfect for those seeking a quieter destination. It's full of amazing art and archeology museums.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/20_diy_projects_that_will_make_your_life_much_easier_031324/s1__37736139'>20 DIY projects that will make your life much easier</a></p>

Often overlooked in favor of towns further east along the Mediterranean, Narbonne is perfect for those seeking a quieter destination. It's full of amazing art and archeology museums.

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<p>Southwestern France's largest city is also very young. This means there are plenty of cafes and bars to occupy would-be travelers. Additionally, Toulouse is known as "La Vie en Rose" or "The Pink City," thanks to specifically colored bricks that make up the city center.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Southwestern France's largest city is also very young. This means there are plenty of cafes and bars to occupy would-be travelers. Additionally, Toulouse is known as "La Vie en Rose" or "The Pink City," thanks to specifically colored bricks that make up the city center.

<p><span>Only 40 minutes by train from Toulouse, Carcassonne is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels. Perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, it offers some of the best views in Provence.</span></p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/25_of_the_wildest_chip_flavors_from_all_around_the_world_031324/s1__23433628'>25 of the wildest chip flavors from all around the world</a></p>

Carcassonne

Only 40 minutes by train from Toulouse, Carcassonne is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels. Perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, it offers some of the best views in Provence.

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<p>Like much of southwestern France, Perpignan is influenced by Spain. The Gothic and Romanesque architecture and food are reminiscent of the neighboring country.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Like much of southwestern France, Perpignan is influenced by Spain. The Gothic and Romanesque architecture and food are reminiscent of the neighboring country.

<p>If you want to hike on your southern France adventure, there's no better spot than Luberon Regional Nature Park! There are endless mountain trails and quaint towns, so you'll never be bored.</p><p>You may also like: <a href='https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/21_things_you_didnt_know_about_burger_king_031324/s1__38423578'>21 things you didn’t know about Burger King</a></p>

Luberon Regional Nature Park

If you want to hike on your southern France adventure, there's no better spot than Luberon Regional Nature Park! There are endless mountain trails and quaint towns, so you'll never be bored.

You may also like: 21 things you didn’t know about Burger King

<p>Just south of Arles, in the wetlands that spill out into the Mediterranean, is a biodiverse park that is a must-visit. Additionally, the Camargue Horse of the same name can be found running wild within the park.</p><p><a href='https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-cj9pqbr0vn9in2b6ddcd8sfgpfq6x6utp44fssrv6mc2gtybw0us'>Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.</a></p>

Camargue Regional Nature Park

Just south of Arles, in the wetlands that spill out into the Mediterranean, is a biodiverse park that is a must-visit. Additionally, the Camargue Horse of the same name can be found running wild within the park.

Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

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COMMENTS

  1. 22 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

    The Palais Lascaris is open Wednesday to Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entrance costs 5 euros (around $5.30). The baroque Palais Lascaris is another of Nice's inexpensive attractions and might ...

  2. 15 Best Things to Do in Nice (France)

    Recommended tour: Nice: Old Town Treasures Walking Tour. 3. Parc de la Colline du Château. Source: LongJon / Shutterstock. 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.

  3. The 12 best things to do in Nice

    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.

  4. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nice

    The park is open every day from 8:30am until 6:00pm year-round (until 8:00pm in spring and summertime). Address: Rue des Ponchettes, Rue de Foresta, Montée Montfort, Nice. 5. Musée Matisse. Musée Matisse. Sitting on the hill of Cimiez, the Musée Matisse is a must-see attraction for anyone who appreciates modern art.

  5. 29 Incredible Things to Do in Nice (By a France Expert)

    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)

  6. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Nice

    2023. 1. Castle Hill of Nice. 9,855. Lookouts. Soak up the breathtaking views from the top of the hill where the Castle of Nice once stood. Castle Hill, which towers over Nice's historic core, is the most popular park in town. Hike (or bike) uphill through a set of winding trails or ride the elevator to the top for free.

  7. 17 Best Things to Do in Nice

    Monaco: 25 Best places to visit; Nice: 15 things you must do and see; Other French Cities. Annecy: 12 things to do and see; Honfleur: Top 15 things to discover; La Rochelle: Top 15 things to do and must-see attractions; Lyon: 21 Best things to do; Marseille: Top 33 best things to do and see; Nantes: The 15 best things to do; Reims: Top 15 ...

  8. 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

    16 - Buy fresh produce from Marché aux Fleurs in Cours Saleya. Cours Saleya is a large open-air market in Nice's Old Town. Every morning, vendors set up stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and other local goods. Wander through the market to take in the vibrant sights and smells of fresh fruits and vegetables.

  9. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Nice (Updated 2024)

    1. Castle Hill of Nice. 9,855. Lookouts. Soak up the breathtaking views from the top of the hill where the Castle of Nice once stood. Castle Hill, which towers over Nice's historic core, is the most popular park in town. Hike (or bike) uphill through a set of winding trails or ride the elevator to the top for free.

  10. 13 Best Things To Do in Nice in 2023

    1. Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain. What is it? Nice's modern art museum, home to a vast collection of pop art, realist art and more, from the 1950s to the present day. You'll find ...

  11. Best Things to Do in Nice, France

    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.

  12. Must-see attractions Nice, Côte d'Azur

    Discover the best attractions in Nice including Vieux Nice, Promenade des Anglais, and Colline du Château. Lonely Planet. Destinations. Planning. Inspiration. Shop. Search. Saves. Open main menu. Europe. France. Must-see attractions in Nice. Sights; ... The scant remains of Nice's Roman amphitheatre can't compare to other ancient sites in ...

  13. 18 Bucket List Things to Do in Nice, France

    2. Hike Up Castle Hill. Hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views of the city - Photo: Carol Perehudoff. When it comes to outdoorsy things to do in Nice, try walking up the (seemingly endless) steps of Castle Hill, also called the Colline du Château or the Parc du Château.

  14. Best Things to Do in Nice, France: 12 Must-See Attractions

    The best things to do in Nice, France range from exploring historic sites to stunning beaches. Here's where to visit in Nice, France. TRAVEL RESOURCES; ... Best Things to Do in Nice, France: 12 Must-See Attractions. by Jen September 22, 2023. September 22, 2023. 64. This post may have affiliate links, where I receive a commission if you ...

  15. 24 Best Things To Do In Nice, France

    9. Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. It's probably strange to find a Russian church in the French Riviera but there's one and it's among the best things to see in Nice. It was constructed during the reign of Czar Nicholas II and has been a top Nice attraction with its brilliant domes and spires since 1912.

  16. 11 BEST Places to Visit in Nice (2024)

    Old Town. Old Town, or "Vieux Nice", is the heart of the city of Nice. A dense labyrinth of cobblestone streets, this is where you'll find colourful buildings, charming shops, quaint cafes and historic landmarks. Places to visit: Admire the ornate façade of the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, which dates back to the mid-17th-century.

  17. 16 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

    5. Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya. In the old town of Nice, there's a colorful flower and vegetable market with freshly produced goods. The market is worth a visit even if you don't want to buy anything because Cours Saleya is an experience in itself.

  18. 24 Best Things to Do in Nice, France (for First-Timers!)

    14. See a Football Match at Allianz Riviera Stadium. The Allianz Riviera Stadium, also called the Grand Stadium Allianz Riviera, is home to OGC Nice, one of the top football clubs in the French Ligue 1. The stadium is a place of life, hosting matches of OGC, tennis, motorsports, concerts, and major city events.

  19. 12 Most Beautiful Places in Nice (France) to Visit

    St. Nicholas Cathedral: A soaring testament to beauty and spirituality, one of the most beautiful places in Nice. 12. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Imagine stepping into a world where opulence meets natural beauty, and you'll find yourself at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

  20. 14 Bucket List Things To Do In Nice, France

    Must-visit sites places in the Nice city center include Place Masséna, the central and most important square of Nice with its large fountain decorated with statues. There's also the richly adorned Cathedral of St. Reparata (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate), and Musée du Palais Lascaris, home to over 500 musical instruments.

  21. 10 Best Things to Do in Nice, France

    Best Things to Do in Nice France. 1. Stroll Along the Promenade des Anglais. A 7 km (4 miles) stretch of road along the beachfront in Nice, the Promenade des Anglais or La Prom in short was built in 1820. The building of the promenade was funded by Reverend Lewis Way and the parishioners of the Holy Trinity Anglican Church.

  22. 25 Best Places to Visit in France

    Mont Saint-Michel. #3 in Best Places to Visit in France. Rising above the sea like a castle in a fairy tale, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy is one of France's most-visited sights. Legend says the ...

  23. 13 of the best places to visit in France

    7. Dune du Pilat is France's most scenic place to camp. Soaring more than 100m (328ft) above sea level, the otherworldly Dune du Pilat is Europe's tallest sand dune. Sheltered by the Arguin sandbank, its waters are much gentler than further up the Atlantic coast on the western side of Cap Ferret.

  24. 24 must-visit destinations in the South of France

    France's second-largest city is located right on the Mediterranean, a nice change of pace from Paris. You can eat well cheaply at Les Halles (the public market) in Old Port, visit two amazing ...