Beautiful Things To Do in Nice, The Capital Of The French Riviera

There is something unequivocally beautiful about the French Riviera. Perhaps it’s the gorgeous, glittering blue-green waters, colourful towns or the 300 days of sunshine. For me, it is the surprising serenity amidst summer crowds that made me fall in love with the region. Nice’s allure, in particular, is a paradise of midnight beach picnics, 6 am swims and lively markets that highlight many other amazing things to do in the city.

As the precious and popular jewel of the Côte d’Azur, Nice is the heart and soul of travelling across the coast. It’s the perfect base for exploring towns and villages stretching from Menton to Cannes but contains its own Mediterranean charm, which is worth exploring. Who doesn’t want to be biting into a crêpe while hiking up to stunning viewpoints overlooking old ports or wandering around century-old constructions under bright skies?   

Therefore, unsurprisingly, the magnetism of southern France is not new. For decades, travellers, artists and philosophers have been captivated by wonderful landscapes and warm atmospheres, including Henri Matisse and Friedrich Nietzsche. The latter even has a hiking trail named after him in Èze! So, if you’re dreaming of being part of such great history, it’s time to plan your picture-perfect French adventure.

Bon voyage!

Travel and Accommodation In Nice 

The best place to base yourself while exploring the Côte d’Azur is Nice. Despite the obvious reason that it is home to the busiest airport in the region, Nice is also one of the more affordable cities by containing a larger selection of accommodation options. 

When choosing where to stay within Nice itself, I would suggest anywhere within the Old Town so you are within walking distance of all major attractions, the beach, and the main train station (Nice-Ville). The latter is vital for getting to and from surrounding cities and towns with ease.

Staying in the Old Town also allows you to fully appreciate the lively and youthful nature of the city. As I mentioned, the midnight picnics are a piece of Nice I will treasure forever.  

Accommodation options worth looking into include: 

• Best Western Plus Hôtel Massena Nice
• Le Meridien Nice
• ApartHotel Riviera – AA Nice Vieille Ville – Lumineux Duplex et calme AC Vue dégagée – DUPLEX MENICA VIEW

Nine Beautiful Things To Do In Nice

Vieille Ville a.k.a. The Old Town

Not only is this the best place to stay in Nice, but a walk through Old Nice (Vieux Nice) is an unparalleled way of taking in the city’s vibrant energy. Located below Castle Hill and along the beach, the picturesque Old Town dazzles visitors with its narrow cobblestone streets, buzzing markets, delightful outdoor cafes, and colourful architecture. Time here offers the epitome of the ‘European summer experience’.

Within the Old Town, must-visit sites include the richly adorned Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate and the Place Masséna with its large fountain and statues.

Promenade des Anglais

Arguably the most noticeable feature of Nice, the idyllic Promenade des Anglais is a 5-mile stretch along the magical Mediterranean lined with palm trees, bars, and luxury hotels. It offers a lovely mix of wandering bliss and lively local interactions, so there is no wrong time to be around. However, I have a soft spot for the 6 am swims and midnight strolls. 

One of the last luxury villas of the 19th century, Villa Masséna, is also located here and holds various artefacts, including Napoleon’s death mask made by Dr. Arnolt.

Parc de la Colline du Château

Rising 92 meters above sea level, the lush Parc de la Colline du Château is the point of highest altitude in the city. It is home to the ruins of Chateau de Nice due to once being an active military citadel before its destruction by Louis XIV’s soldiers in 1706. Today, the popular attraction in Nice is where people find themselves when wishing to escape the crowds, needing the cool sprays of the waterfall and dreaming of the impressive panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, old port and old town.

If you are visiting Nice in the summer, I highly recommend exploring the park as early in the morning as possible before it gets too hot. I would also advise walking up from the beach entrance and walking out from the city exit so you can fully appreciate the grandness of the space.

Old Port

Built in the 18th century, Nice’s Old Port is one of the French Riviera’s main infrastructural hubs. With ten quays, it accommodates both the ships operated by ferry companies and private yachts for tourists. If you do not get onboard, strolling around the area is still another of the best things to see in Nice in all its colourful and bustling water-front glory.

Marché Aux Fleurs (Flower Market) and Les Puces de Nice (Antique Market)

The pedestrianized area of Cours Saleya hosts one of the best things to do in Nice – shopping at markets. The Marché Aux Fleurs (Flower Market) and Les Puces de Nice (Antique Market) take place on certain days throughout the week from 9 am to 1 pm and rightfully draws crowds to the endless beauty on display. From blooming sunflowers to beautiful broaches, there is so much to fall in love with, even if you don’t intend to buy anything.  

Marché Aux Fleurs: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm
Les Puces de Nice: Monday from 9 am to 1 pm

Musée Matisse

Set within the whimsical 17th-century Villa des Arènes, the Matisse Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Henri Matisse’s works. This iconic artist lived in Nice till his death in November 1954, and the deep influences of the city are evident in his paintings, especially his bold use of colours which he is best known for. 

Sample Some Socca 

As a traveller, discovering local cuisine is always a pleasant highlight of any trip. Although I didn’t think there was much I could try as a vegetarian, besides the incredible deserts, Nice surprised me with socca. The traditional snack made from chickpea flour and olive oil, is a staple in the region and offers a satisfying taste of Nice’s rich culinary heritage. Socca is best paired with rosé and is enjoyed at any time of the day. 

Take A Wine Tour

Speaking of rosé, few visit the South of France without tasting wine – the local delicacy – and while you can enjoy a glass at a restaurant, why not make your way to the source and have a great day out in the famous French vineyards? The Côtes de Provence alone represents 60% of Provençal production and is accessible from many cities in the region including Nice, Toulon, Marseille, and even Saint Tropez. It is 20,000 hectares of enchanting rosé but also produces a small share of full-bodied red wines and aromatic and fruity whites.

This full-day Côtes de Provence wine tour from Nice visits three award-winning wineries in the region where you can taste a variety of fine wines:

Beer District

While France is far better known for its diecious wine, those who don’t particularly enjoy viticulture but still want an alcohol fix should make their way to the Beer District. With 16 microbrews on tap and loads of bottled beers from all over the world, the craft beer scene is taking a life on its own in Nice. However, if you are short on time, this is something you can skip. I’d recommend having your beer adventures in Germany instead.

Fantastic Day Trips From Nice

The best part about exploring the Côte d’Azur is that you are not tied down to one city during your trip. Through short distances and great transport links, you can easily explore 3 to 4 other towns and cities in a weekend – or even a whole new country if you’re up for a gamble! Can you tell where I’m going with this?

Here are easy day trips from Nice that you can’t miss:

1. Antibes
2. Cannes
3. Eze Village (read more)
4. Menton
5. Monaco (read more)
6. Villefranche-sur-Mer

Average Cost For Four Days In Nice Per Person

Transport (flights from London + local travel): £150

Accommodation: £200 (£400 per double)

Attractions: £10 (excluding the wine tour) 

Food and amenities: £150

Practical Information About Nice

Location: France, Europe

National Language: French

Currency: Euro

Neighbouring Countries: Monaco, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Andorra