I feel so lucky to call the beautiful city of Nice home. Located in the South of France, Nice is not only the hub for exploring the French Riviera but also a haven of its own. Just picture sunny skies, the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, and the magnificent views of the French Alps, all that and more await you in Nice. Looking for the best things to do in Nice? I got you!
In this guide, I have put together a list of the top 15 must-do activities in Nice.
Guest post by Camila Neves
Best Things to do in Nice
1- Walk along the Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is a world-famous promenade in the city of Nice, France.
Lining the Mediterranean Sea, the promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to take a walk, enjoy the views, and relax.
The name “Promenade des Anglais” comes from the fact that it was originally built by Englishmen in the early 19th century. These days, it’s one of the most famous landmarks in Nice.
2- Get lost in the streets of Vieux Nice
Vieux Nice (literally meaning “Old Nice”) is the old town of the city. It’s full of narrow streets, quaint restaurants, and small boutiques. You can spend hours getting lost in this part of the city, discovering something new around every corner.
Be sure to stop by Place Rossetti for some wonderful gelato at Fenocchio.
3- Things to do in Nice – Climb Castle Hill for views of Nice and beyond
Some of the most iconic sights in Nice are from the top of Castle Hill. It’s a hill located on one side of the city that offers amazing views out over the Mediterranean Sea, Promenade des Anglais and the Port.
4- Have lunch at La Reserve for one of the best views of the sea in Nice
La Reserve is a wonderful 800s art deco-style restaurant that offers an upscale dining experience.
But what really makes this restaurant one of a kind is not only the food but its location on top of a cliff by the ocean.
5- Sip cocktails at one of Nice’s beach clubs
Nice has several amazing beach clubs that are perfect for enjoying some cold drinks and good company. From simple beach bars to more upscale spots with rooftop terraces, there’s something for everyone.
Be sure to check out Blue Beach, Plage Beau Rivage Nice and Ruhl Plage.
6- Explore Marche aux Fleurs in Cours Saleya
Nice has plenty of amazing markets to explore. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, handmade goods, or unique souvenirs, you’ll find it all.
My favorite market is Marche Aux Fleurs in Cours Saleya. I highly recommend stopping there for lunch after a long walk along the promenade.
7- Admire the architecture at Place Massena
Place Massena is the main square in Nice. Its most impressive feature is Le Fountain du Soleil and the statue of Apolo.
Nice’s Galeries Lafayette is also located here, as well as several restaurants and other shops.
8- See art at Musée Matisse
The Musée Matisse is a museum dedicated to the work of Henri Matisse, one of the most famous French artists.
Located in an old villa overlooking Nice and the Mediterranean Sea, this museum houses several paintings by Matisse as well as other works from different periods of his career.
It’s definitely worth checking out for any art lover!
9- Things to do from Nice – Go on a day trip to Monaco, Cannes, or Menton
If you have some extra time in Nice, be sure to explore the surrounding area. The nearby cities of Monaco, Cannes, and Menton offer plenty of interesting attractions like casinos, beaches, and beautiful views over the Mediterranean Sea.
The best part is that all these destinations are easily reachable from Nice by train. Take a day trip out to one or all of these cities for an unforgettable experience!
10- Try pissaladiere or socca at one of the local restaurants
Pissaladiere and socca are two traditional dishes from Nice. Pissaladiere is a type of flatbread topped with onions, anchovies, and olives, while socca is a chickpea-based pancake.
Both are delicious and definitely worth trying when you’re in town. You can find them at most local restaurants in Nice, but Chez Rene Socca is my favorite.
11- Must do in Nice – Go on a walking tour!
I used to think walking tours were a little silly, but – boy, was I wrong! When done properly, they can be incredibly educational and entertaining.
I recently took one in Nice and it was honestly a fantastic experience. I got to learn a lot about the history and architecture of the city, and I can say that now I see the city differently thanks to the tour.
Read 15 Best tours to take in Nice, France for other great options.
12- Enjoy the wonderful Coco Beach
Although most people end up always going to the beach at Promenade des Anglais, Coco Beach is a local’s secret that you must discover. This beach is located on the other side of Nice and offers a much more relaxed vibe than its more famous counterpart.
It’s also much less crowded, so it’s perfect for spending a day lounging in the sun.
13- Things to do in Nice – Admire the Vieux Port
The Vieux Port of Nice is a beautiful and romantic spot in the city. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll, admire the boats in the harbor, and just enjoy being by the water.
There are also several cafes and restaurants right by the port, so it’s an ideal spot for grabbing some lunch or dinner with friends.
14- Have breakfast at the famous Negresco
The Negresco is a luxurious hotel located on the beachfront in Nice. Breakfast at their restaurant, La Rotonde, is legendary. It’s an incredible buffet with delicious food and unbeatable views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Although it’s definitely not on the cheap side, breakfast at the hotel is more affordable than lunch or dinner, and it’s the perfect way of experiencing the opulence of the Negresco without breaking the bank.
15- Must do in Nice: Have a glass of rosé wine by the ocean
Rosé is a specialty in the South of France, and it’s an essential part of the Nice experience.
Find a spot on the beach or near one of the nice promenades, grab some rosé from a local shop or bar, and just sit back and enjoy! It’s sure to be one of your best memories from your visit to Nice.
Conclusion: The 15 Best Things to do in Nice, France
That’s a wrap! With this list, you now have the inside scoop on all of the best things to do in Nice. Whether it’s art, food, or just lounging by the beach, there are plenty of amazing experiences to be had in this incredible city.
While you’re in the area, make your way west to Orange or Nimes to discover some beautifully preserved Roman theaters.
Disclosure
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