Things To Do in Nice: Explore the Jewel of the Riviera (2024)

Welcome to Nice, the quintessential French Riviera city that embodies a blend of vibrant street life, stunning seaside beauty, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. Known for its mild Mediterranean climate and diverse landscapes, Nice has long been a favorite retreat for artists, aristocrats, and adventurers alike.

The city’s allure lies not just in its sunny weather and azure waters, but also in its ability to offer a myriad of experiences – from its renowned culinary delights to its bustling markets and serene pebble beaches.

Strolling Along the Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is more than just a pathway by the sea; it is the lifeblood of Nice, a place where the city’s heart beats strongest. It stretches majestically along the coast, a testament to the timeless allure that the French Riviera holds.

This historic promenade, with its iconic blue chairs and striped umbrellas, is where the locals mingle with visitors against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

The Heartbeat of Nice’s Coastline

It’s here, on this celebrated promenade, that you can join in the age-old tradition of the “flânerie”—the stroll that is as much about socializing as it is about enjoying the panoramic views. Take in the sights of rollerbladers weaving skillfully through the crowd, street performers captivating audiences, and families basking in the gentle Riviera sun.

The Promenade des Anglais traces its origins to the English aristocracy, who would spend their winters in Nice. Their love for leisurely walks along the sea led to the creation of this walkway in the 19th century, and it has since become a symbol of the city.

A Canvas of Activities

As you stroll, you’ll find there’s no shortage of activities to partake in:

• Relaxing Seaside Cafés: Stop by one of the many cafes and treat yourself to a “café au lait” while people-watching.
• Beachside Dining: Opt for a meal with a view at one of the many restaurants lining the promenade.
• Cycling and Rollerblading: Rent a bike or skates and join the locals in a more active exploration of the coastline.
• Sunset Admirers: As the day wanes, find a spot along the promenade to witness the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange.

Delving into Art and Culture

Nice is a city that celebrates the arts with as much fervor as it does its azure coastline. It’s a cultural haven where the legacy of artists past continues to infuse the city with a sense of beauty and depth.

Museums and Galleries: A Testament to Nice’s Artistic Heritage

The art scene in Nice is both dynamic and deeply rooted in history, as reflected in the plethora of museums and galleries scattered throughout the city.

The Matisse Museum

Nestled in the heart of the Cimiez neighborhood, this museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Matisse’s works. The artist himself lived in Nice for a significant part of his life, and the museum is a homage to his vibrant use of color and his journey as an artist.

Marc Chagall National Museum

Dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, primarily his religious and spiritual pieces, this museum offers a deep dive into the artist’s intricate biblical themes and his striking, dream-like visuals.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC)

Celebrating post-war European and American art, MAMAC captivates with its avant-garde collections and is a centerpiece of contemporary culture in Nice.

The Influence of Artists on Nice’s Cultural Landscape

Art in Nice is not confined within the walls of museums. It spills out into the streets, squares, and even the markets. Walking through the city, you can feel the influence of the artists who have walked these streets before. Their vision seems to permeate the very atmosphere of Nice, inspiring new generations of creatives.

The city’s architectural canvas showcases a range of styles from the Baroque influence in the Old Town to the Belle Époque and Art Deco buildings that line the boulevards. This architectural diversity is a physical narrative of the city’s rich cultural journey through the ages.

The legacy of artists in Nice has also paved the way for a thriving contemporary art scene, with numerous smaller galleries and workshops dotting the city. They provide a platform for both established and emerging artists, reflecting the city’s ongoing dialogue with art.

Nice’s commitment to culture extends to performing arts as well, with venues such as the Opéra de Nice and a variety of theaters presenting a range of music, dance, and drama, ensuring that the city’s cultural calendar is as lively and varied as the artworks that adorn its walls.

Experiencing the Old Town (Vieux Nice)

The Old Town of Nice, known affectionately as “Vieux Nice,” is a picturesque and vibrant quarter that seems to hold the city’s soul within its labyrinth of narrow streets. Here, history is etched into the colorful facades of ancient buildings and the cobblestone paths that have been trodden for centuries.

A Walk Through History

Venturing into Vieux Nice is like stepping back in time. The area is a contrast of light and shade, where the sunlight filters through hanging laundry to dance on the well-worn stones.

The Italian influence is palpable in the ochre-painted buildings and the shutters that echo with tales of yesteryear. It’s a place where every corner reveals a new secret, every alley whispers of the past, and every square is a living piece of art.

The Daily Flower and Food Markets at Cours Saleya

One cannot talk about Vieux Nice without mentioning the Cours Saleya, the heartbeat of the Old Town. By morning, the marketplace is a cavalcade of colors and scents. Here, farmers and florists proudly present their produce and blooms in a spectrum of hues and aromas that can captivate any passerby.

The Flower Market: It’s a floral spectacle Monday through Saturday, where the fragrance of fresh flowers vies for attention with the aromas of local spices and freshly baked bread.

The Food Market: Alongside, the food market tempts with its local specialties, from Niçoise olives to Socca, a chickpea flour pancake that is a must-try for any food enthusiast.

On Mondays, the Cours Saleya transforms into an antique market, where treasure-seekers can browse through a plethora of vintage goods and collectibles, offering a tangible connection to the region’s rich history.

Local Crafts and Culinary Specialties to Try

The Old Town is also the epicenter of Niçois cuisine and craftsmanship. Artisan shops sell everything from handmade soaps scented with Provencal herbs to delicate pastries that melt in your mouth. Local artisans take pride in their work, offering goods crafted with a level of care that harks back to a time when every object had a story.

Culinary Delights: For a taste of traditional Nice, indulge in a “Pissaladière,” a tart made with onions and anchovies, or “Ratatouille,” a stewed vegetable dish that has warmed the hearts of locals for generations.

Handcrafted Wares: Wander into a boutique to admire the hand-painted ceramics or fine textiles that showcase the region’s artistic flair.

Discovering Nice’s Panoramic Views

As the warm Mediterranean breeze weaves through the streets of Nice, it carries an invitation to explore the heights that offer some of the most stunning panoramas of the Côte d’Azur. Perched viewpoints around the city present breathtaking vistas that blend urban charm with the grandeur of nature.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

One cannot speak of panoramic views in Nice without first ascending the storied steps to Castle Hill, known locally as “Colline du Château.” Although no castle remains at the summit, the park that now stands in its place is a verdant oasis, offering an unmatched vantage point.

As you climb the winding staircases or take the lift up, anticipation builds until the cityscape of Nice unfolds beneath you. From this elevated park, a 360-degree panorama allows you to gaze upon the curved bay of the Baie des Anges, the terra cotta rooftops of the old town, and the distant, rugged mountains that frame the city.

The Waterfall: Near the top, a surprise awaits in the form of a man-made waterfall, adding to the hill’s allure, where the mist cools the air and rainbows are often in sight.

The Ruins: Explore the remnants of the once-imposing citadel and feel the whispers of history that accompany the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze.

The Bellanda Tower Viewpoint

Another magnificent viewpoint is the Bellanda Tower, standing sentinel at the foot of Castle Hill. It offers its unique perspective on the Promenade des Anglais and the endless blue of the sea. It is a favorite spot for photographers, romantics, and dreamers alike.

Standing here, with the city behind and the vastness of the sea in front, one experiences the feeling of being suspended between sky and water. It is a moment of tranquility, where the hustle of city life seems distant, and the beauty of the Riviera is yours to embrace.

The views from Castle Hill and Bellanda Tower provide not just a feast for the eyes but also a context for Nice’s geographical tapestry. The blending of urban energy and serene nature, the harmony between the past and present, all become vividly clear from these spectacular vantage points.

Enjoying the Azure Beaches

The allure of Nice is not fully savored until you have walked along its pebbly shores and dipped your toes into the waters of the Mediterranean. The city’s beaches are a tapestry of blue tones, from the pale, clear skies to the deep, mesmerizing azure of the sea.

The Unique Charm of Nice’s Beaches

Unlike the sandy beaches that typify many coastal retreats, the beaches in Nice are renowned for their smooth pebbles, known locally as “galets.” These stones, rounded and softened by the ebb and flow of the sea, provide a unique beach-going experience that is distinctly Niçois.

The beaches stretch along the coastline, paralleled by the legendary Promenade des Anglais, where the sounds of the city fade into the rhythmic crashing of waves.

Public and Private Beaches: A Place for Everyone

Nice’s shoreline is dotted with both public and private beaches, each offering its slice of coastal bliss.

Public Beaches: For a free and unfettered encounter with the Riviera’s waters, head to one of the many public beaches. Plage Publique de Beau Rivage or Plage du Centenaire are popular choices where you can mingle with locals, lay out a towel, and bask in the sun.

Private Beaches: For those seeking a more serviced experience, the private beaches offer sun loungers, umbrellas, and often, a full bar and restaurant service. Plage Beau Rivage and Blue Beach are among the private options where comfort meets the seaside luxury.

The Pleasures of Seafront Dining

One of the quintessential experiences in Nice is dining by the sea. Whether you choose a casual beachfront cafe or an upscale restaurant with a private pier, the combination of fresh seafood, Niçoise salads, and chilled rosé wine with the view of the Mediterranean is nothing short of sublime.

Watersports and Relaxation

For the adventurous souls, the beaches of Nice offer more than just relaxation. Engage in water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or even jet skiing. The sea here is not just for gazing upon; it is a playground for those who seek to stir their adrenaline amidst the tranquility.

Sustainable Beach Practices

Nice takes pride in its environmental efforts to maintain the pristine quality of its shoreline. Clean-up initiatives and eco-friendly policies ensure that the pebble beaches remain unspoiled for future generations to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to respect these practices and contribute to the preservation of this natural beauty.

Savoring Niçoise Cuisine

The culinary landscape of Nice is a reflection of its geographical tapestry—a blend of French sophistication with Italian zest, all seasoned with the freshest Mediterranean flavors. Niçoise cuisine is not just food; it’s a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage, served on a plate for both locals and visitors to relish.

Niçoise Dish	Description	Best Places to Try
Salade Niçoise	A fresh salad with tuna, eggs, olives, and anchovies	Chez Palmyre, La Petite Maison
Ratatouille	A stewed vegetable dish featuring aubergine, zucchini, and peppers	Lou Pilha Leva, Le Safari
Socca	A savory pancake made from chickpea flour	Chez Pipo, Chez Theresa
Pissaladière	A tart with onions, anchovies, and olives on a bread dough base	René Socca, Au Rendez Vous des Amis
Pan Bagnat	A sandwich variant of the salade Niçoise in a round bread roll	Boulangerie Jeannot, La Fougasserie
Farcis Niçois	Vegetables stuffed with a mixture of ground meat and herbs	Comptoir du Marché, Le Petit Lascaris

The Foundations of Niçoise Cooking

The cornerstone of Niçoise cooking is its reliance on fresh, local produce. Olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and a variety of fresh herbs form the base of many dishes, imparting a flavor profile that is at once robust and refreshing. It is a cuisine born out of the sea and the rugged terrain, bringing the best of both to the table.

Iconic Dishes to Try

No culinary exploration of Nice would be complete without sampling some of its iconic dishes. Each is a celebration of local produce and traditional cooking methods, offering a delicious insight into the Niçoise way of life.

Salade Niçoise

Perhaps the most famous ambassador of Nice’s gastronomy, this salad is a colorful array of tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and tuna, dressed with a simple vinaigrette.

Ratatouille

A staple of the region, this slow-cooked vegetable stew is both comforting and flavorful, showcasing the depth of flavors that can be coaxed from simple ingredients.

Socca

This humble chickpea pancake is a street food marvel, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and utterly addictive. It’s a must-try snack, especially when hot and freshly made from the many street vendors or small eateries in the Old Town.

Pissaladière

Resembling a pizza, this savory tart is topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean on a thin, crispy crust.

The Role of Seafood

With its proximity to the sea, it’s no surprise that seafood features prominently in the cuisine of Nice. Fresh fish, often grilled or baked with a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, is a simple yet satisfying dish that honors the catch of the day.

Niçoise Olive Oil: Liquid Gold

In the realm of Niçoise cuisine, olive oil holds a place of honor. It is the golden thread that weaves through the dishes, providing richness and depth. In Nice, tasting locally produced olive oil, with its fruity notes and peppery finish, is an indulgence for the palate.

Wine and Pastries: The Sweet Conclusion

To accompany a meal, a glass of local rosé or red wine from the nearby Provence vineyards is the perfect choice. For a sweet finish, the patisseries of Nice offer an array of treats, from the tart Tropezienne to the choux pastry delight known as “choux à la crème.”

Venturing into the Surrounding Countryside

Beyond the bustling streets and the tranquil shores of Nice lies a hinterland of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and picturesque villages that beckon for exploration. The surrounding countryside of the Côte d’Azur offers a peaceful respite from the city and an authentic glimpse into the Provençal way of life.

The Hilltop Villages of Provence

A short journey from Nice will transport you to an altogether different world where the pace of life slows to the rhythm of nature. Perched villages like Èze and Saint-Paul de Vence are justly celebrated for their medieval charm and stunning panoramas.

Èze

With its cobblestone streets and spectacular views of the Mediterranean, Èze is a favorite for those looking to capture the essence of medieval Provence. The village’s exotic garden, situated at its summit, offers a panoramic viewpoint that can leave you breathless.

Saint-Paul de Vence

Renowned for its art galleries and historical ambiance, this fortified village has long been a haven for artists and is the perfect place to soak up Provence’s artistic heritage.

Olive Groves and Vineyards

The countryside around Nice is dotted with olive groves and vineyards, the sources of some of the region’s liquid treasures. Visiting a local vineyard to sample the crisp whites, rosés, and full-bodied reds that the region is known for is both an educational and a palate-pleasing experience.

Similarly, an excursion to an olive oil mill can provide insights into the making of this staple of Niçoise cuisine, as well as tastings that reveal the oil’s complex flavor profiles.

Outdoor Activities Amidst Nature

For the active traveler, the countryside around Nice offers a myriad of opportunities:

Hiking and Biking: The Alps-Maritimes region is crisscrossed with trails that cater to both casual walkers and serious hikers, offering stunning views and the chance to encounter local wildlife.

River Adventures: The gorges and rivers provide a playground for water sports enthusiasts, with activities such as canyoning, rafting, and fishing.

Cultural Festivals and Markets

The rural towns and villages around Nice are lively centers of culture and tradition, especially on market days when locals and visitors alike come to sample regional produce and crafts. Additionally, numerous festivals celebrating everything from music to local history and produce take place throughout the year, providing a festive window into local customs and conviviality.

The Lavender Fields of Provence

While a bit farther afield, the lavender fields of Provence are a sight to behold when in full bloom and are accessible on a day trip from Nice. The sight of endless rows of purple, coupled with the soothing scent, is an iconic image of the French countryside.

Taking the Scenic Route

Sometimes, it’s not just about the destination but the journey itself. The drives through the countryside offer a visual feast – from the “Route de Mimosas” with its golden blooms to the dramatic “Grande Corniche” with its sweeping vistas – these scenic routes are as much a part of the Provençal experience as the destinations they lead to.

Engaging in Festivals and Events

Nice, with its vibrant culture and rich history, plays host to an array of festivals and events throughout the year, each offering a different flavor of the city’s eclectic spirit. These occasions are not merely events; they are pulsating expressions of art, history, music, and gastronomy that offer a unique opportunity to engage with the local community and traditions.

Carnival of Nice: A Feast for the Senses

One of the city’s most flamboyant annual celebrations is the Carnival of Nice. This event, held in February, transforms the city into a whirlwind of colors and sounds.

Parades: Majestic parades float down the Promenade des Anglais, with gigantic, whimsical figures crafted to amaze and entertain.

Flower Battles: Equally enchanting are the “batailles de fleurs,” where intricately decorated floats covered in fresh blooms parade along the seafront, and costumed revelers throw flowers to the crowd.

Jazz Festival: Grooving to Global Beats

The Nice Jazz Festival is another highlight, echoing the city’s long-standing affair with jazz music. This event attracts world-renowned musicians and emerging talents who perform across multiple stages.

Diverse Genres: Although jazz is the heart of the festival, performances often span a range of genres, providing something for every musical taste.

Historic Venues: The music spills out from historic squares and modern venues, turning the whole city into a stage.

Christmas Markets: A Winter Wonderland

As winter approaches, Nice decks itself in festive lights and decorations, with Christmas markets springing up, especially in Place Masséna.

Festive Stalls: Artisans and merchants offer everything from seasonal treats to handmade crafts, perfect for finding unique gifts.

Skating Rinks: For a touch of winter fun, lace up your skates and glide across the ice rinks that pop up during the holiday season.

Nice International Film Festival: A Cinematic Celebration

Film enthusiasts can indulge in the art of cinema during the Nice International Film Festival. This event is a showcase for independent filmmakers to present their work and engage with audiences in an intimate setting.

Screenings and Workshops: The festival includes screenings, workshops, and panel discussions that provide insights into the filmmaking process.

Les Plages Electroniques: Beats by the Beach

For lovers of electronic music, Les Plages Electroniques presents a lineup of DJs and live acts right on the beach, turning the pebbles of Nice into a dance floor under the stars.

Day-to-Night Events: This festival offers a blend of sun-soaked daytime sessions that transition into high-energy nighttime parties.

Local and Seasonal Celebrations

Apart from these flagship events, Nice is a city that celebrates its local culture and seasonal bounties with numerous smaller festivals and events.

Wine Harvest Festivals: The surrounding vineyards celebrate the grape harvest with festivals that offer tastings and vineyard tours.

Patron Saints’ Days: Various districts celebrate their patron saints with processions, music, and communal meals.

Shopping in Nice

The allure of shopping in Nice is found not just in the products for sale but in the very act of perusing, discovering, and interacting with the city’s array of shops and markets. From high-end boutiques to quaint antique stores, and vibrant markets to artisanal workshops, the shopping scene in Nice is a treasure trove for those who seek to bring a piece of the Riviera lifestyle back home.

Luxury Boutiques and Designer Brands

For those with a penchant for luxury and high fashion, Nice’s prestigious Avenue Jean Médecin and the surrounding streets are the place to be. Here, designer boutiques and luxury brand stores line up to present a dazzling array of clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Place Masséna and Carré d’Or: These are key areas where the blend of architectural elegance and shopping opulence comes to life, offering a sophisticated retail experience.

Artisanal and Specialty Shops

Delving into the heart of Nice’s shopping scene reveals artisanal shops that are repositories of craftsmanship and regional authenticity.

Cours Saleya Market: Not only a feast for the senses with its colorful flower and produce stalls but also a spot to find local delicacies and handcrafted goods.

Olive Oil Boutiques: Specialty shops dedicated to olive oil offer tastings and bottles that range from the peppery to the subtle, encapsulating the essence of Provençal terroir.

Daily Markets: A Local’s Routine

The daily markets of Nice are the city’s beating heart, where locals and visitors alike gather to shop for fresh produce, fish, meats, and cheeses.

Marché de la Libération: This bustling market is where fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and regional products can be found, giving a true taste of the Niçoise lifestyle.

Vintage Finds and Antiques

For those with a love for history and vintage charm, the antique shops and flea markets of Nice are a paradise. The famous “Antiques District” near the port area is home to stores filled with curios, furniture, and art that tell stories of the past.

Marché aux Puces de Nice: The city’s main flea market is a wonderland for collectors and bargain hunters, offering everything from vintage clothing to rare collectibles.

Souvenirs and Niçoise Specialties

Bringing a piece of Nice into your home can be as simple as visiting one of the many shops specializing in local goods.

Niçoise Fabrics

Stores selling traditional Provençal fabrics offer colorful tablecloths, napkins, and clothing with distinctive patterns.

Perfumeries

The nearby town of Grasse is known for its perfumes, but Nice itself has boutiques where you can create your signature scent or purchase fragrant souvenirs.

The Shopping Experience

In Nice, shopping is not rushed. It is an experience to be savored, a stroll through streets that offer glimpses of the Mediterranean lifestyle. It is an activity where interaction with shopkeepers provides a deeper understanding of the products and the stories behind them.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Nice

Embracing the charm of Nice and making the most of your time in this sun-drenched corner of the French Riviera can be greatly enhanced by a few practical tips. From navigating the city with ease to knowing the local customs, a little insight can go a long way in enriching your stay in this Mediterranean gem.

Transportation: Getting Around the City

Public Transit: Nice has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, that can take you to most tourist attractions, beaches, and markets. Investing in a multi-day pass can be cost-effective if you plan to explore extensively.

Bicycle Sharing: The city offers a bike-sharing program, Vélo Bleu, which is a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around. Just make sure to check bike availability in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Walking: Many of Nice’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old Town. Comfortable shoes are a must for the cobbled streets.

Dining: Experiencing Niçoise Cuisine

Restaurant Hours: Traditional restaurants in Nice may have specific meal times, often closing after lunch and reopening for dinner around 7 PM. It’s wise to check the opening hours in advance.

Local Specialties: Don’t miss out on trying local dishes such as “salade niçoise,” “ratatouille,” and “socca.” Local eateries and street vendors are great places to sample these treats authentically.

Tipping: Service is usually included in your bill in France, but it is customary to leave a small change as a tip if the service is exceptional.

Language: Communicating with Locals

Basic French: While many people in Nice speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in French is appreciated and can enhance your interactions.

Gestures and Etiquette: Simple gestures like greeting with “bonjour” and saying “merci” can go a long way. The French often value discretion and politeness.

Money: Currency and Payments

Cash and Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to carry some cash for smaller shops or markets. ATMs are readily available.

Value-Added Tax (VAT): Keep in mind prices generally include tax, and if you’re a non-EU resident, you may be eligible for a VAT refund on larger purchases.

Safety: Staying Secure

Personal Belongings: As with any tourist destination, it’s important to watch over your personal belongings. The use of a money belt or a secure cross-body bag is recommended.

Emergency Numbers: Keep a note of emergency numbers, including the European emergency number 112, which can be dialed for any type of emergency service.

Seasonal Considerations: Best Times to Visit

Peak Season: July and August are peak tourist months; the city is bustling, and prices can be higher. For a quieter experience, consider the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October.

Weather Preparedness: Nice has a Mediterranean climate, so sunscreen and a hat are essential during the summer, while a light jacket may be needed for cooler evenings.

Respecting Local Culture: Fitting in with the Niçois

Beach Etiquette: When visiting the beaches, note that some are private and require a fee, while public beaches are free. Be mindful of local customs regarding beachwear and personal space.

Environmental Consideration: Nice places great importance on cleanliness and environmental awareness. Always dispose of waste in bins and avoid littering, especially on the beaches.

By keeping these practical tips in mind, your visit to Nice can be smooth, enjoyable, and full of the rich experiences this coastal city has to offer. A bit of preparation and cultural awareness can make all the difference in creating a memorable and authentic trip to one of France’s most beloved destinations.