Nice, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ready to explore Nice, a beautiful city on the Côte d'Azur in the South of France? This spot should definitely be at the top of your list for a summer trip in Europe. From early June through August, the French Riviera becomes a hot spot for Parisians and other French travelers looking to cool off by the Mediterranean Sea. But Nice has more to offer than just its beautiful beaches and sea views.

Nice is like a mix of France, Italy, and Northern Africa, which are all close by. You can see this mix in the city's language, buildings, and even the old Niçard dialect on some street signs. While many think of Nice as a place to relax on the beach, there's lots to do for those seeking adventure. Visit famous spots like the Promenade des Anglais, the charming Old Town, and the Musée Matisse.

Key Takeaways

• Nice, located on the Côte d'Azur in the South of France, is a captivating destination for a European summer getaway.
• The city blends the best of French culture with influences from Italy and Northern Africa, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere.
• While Nice is renowned for its beaches and seaside charm, there are numerous attractions and activities to explore for the active traveler.
• Iconic landmarks like the Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, and Musée Matisse offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
• Discover the hidden gems and enchanting experiences that make Nice one of the top destinations on the French Riviera.

Let's uncover the best of Nice, France together. We'll explore its top spots and cultural sites, sure to amaze and inspire you to visit again.

Experience the Iconic Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a famous seafront in Nice. It goes on for seven kilometers by the Mediterranean Sea. This place has palm trees and amazing views of the water. People love to swim, sunbathe, or watch the sunset here.

Iconic Seaside Boulevard

In the 19th century, English nobles liked this place. Now, it's full of life. Walking, cycling, or sunbathing on the pebbly beaches is perfect here. It's a top spot for your visit to Nice.

Strolling and People-Watching

The Promenade des Anglais is loved by all. Locals and tourists come for a walk. It's great for watching people enjoy the beautiful views. You'll see sun lovers, joggers, and families here.

Breathtaking Ocean Views

Enjoy the Mediterranean views at sunset. The seafront promenade is full of great vibes. Palm trees and open sea make it a favorite in Nice.

Explore the Enchanting Vieux Nice (Old Town)

In Vieux Nice, time feels different, like it’s come to a gentle stop. The area is full of small, colorful streets that take you back in time. As you walk, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the smells of fresh flowers and local foods.

Winding Alleys and Colorful Facades

Take a step and find something new in every corner. It might be a cozy café, or a little shop with special olive oil. The area’s rich history and vibrant houses, lit by the sun, make it perfect for those who love to explore. Its timeless beauty is an open invitation to everyone.

Bustling Markets and Cafés

Roam around the bustling scene of Vieux Nice and see how the locals live. Dotted with markets and cafes, the town’s heart beats with tradition. The colorful streets and buildings add to its unique charm.

Authentic Niçoise Cuisine

Don’t miss out on the local food. In Vieux Nice, you can enjoy dishes inspired by the Mediterranean. Think fresh seafood, olive oil, and citrus. These flavors will make you want to come back for more.

Climb Castle Hill for Panoramic City Views

Above the stunning blue waters of the Mediterranean, Castle Hill in Nice is a top site on the French Riviera. It provides panoramic vistas of the gorgeous coastline. It's also a walk through the past.

The Castle Hill Park gives visitors amazing views. You can see the Baie des Anges, cityscape of Nice, and the famous Promenade des Anglais.

The old Château de Nice is mostly gone. But now, there's a beautiful park with a fake waterfall. It's peaceful and has areas for kids to play in. Whether you climb or take the elevator up, Castle Hill tells the story of Nice's start.

Nice, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The beautiful city of Nice is on the Côte d'Azur in the South of France. It's a perfect spot for a summer trip in Europe. From June to August, a lot of Parisians and others visit the French Riviera. They come to enjoy the cool air from the Mediterranean Sea because there's no air conditioning. Nice brings together the charm of France, Italy, and Northern Africa. You can see this mix in the local language, the buildings, and even the old Niçard dialect on some street signs.

While Nice is great for beach lovers, there's also a lot to do for those who prefer an active holiday. You can check out attractions like Castle Hill, the Promenade des Anglais, or the Cours Saleya Flower Market. And don't forget to explore the charming Old Town.

Indulge at the Cours Saleya Flower Market

The Cours Saleya Flower Market is close to the Promenade des Anglais. It's the lively heart of Nice's food and culture. The market is set in Nice's Old Town, surrounded by colorful buildings. It appeals to visitors and locals alike.

This market is a feast for the senses. It's filled with bright flowers, fresh produce, and tasty Niçoise cuisine.

Vibrant Flower Stalls

The Cours Saleya Market is famous for its flowers but also has a food and flea section. It's a fun spot to watch people in Nice's old district.

Local Delicacies

The stalls here sell lots of local produce and crafts. You can find everything from fresh herbs and fruits to local jams and special dishes.

Evening Entertainment

At night, it's a place for open-air eating and events. There are many eateries and bars. They serve dishes with Mediterranean tastes like garlic, seafood, and lemon.

Relax on the Pebbly Beaches

Enjoy the pebbly shores on the French Riviera with beautiful palm trees around. Bring your water shoes for the Nice beaches. They're rocky and hard to walk on without them.

At Castel Plage, the rocks are big and slippery, but to the west, you find sandy parts. These beaches are easier on the feet.

Public and Private Beach Options

In Nice, you have public and private beaches to choose from. Private beaches offer sun loungers and more. Public beaches are great if you're on a budget.

Water Sports and Activities

Love the water and the sun? The French Riviera has a lot to offer. You can swim, sunbathe, or try sports like jet skiing and surfing.

Visit the Musée Matisse

In Nice, France, the Musée Matisse lets you dive into art deeply. It's located in a 17th-century villa with a lovely garden. This spot celebrates Henri Matisse, a famous artist who found his home in Nice for many years.

Masterpieces by Henri Matisse

Here, you can see lots of Matisse's breathtaking art, like paintings, sculptures, and drawings. You'll watch how his unique style changed over time. Take a journey through his art and see how the French Riviera influenced his works in the museum galleries.

Olive Grove Setting

For all art lovers and those looking to get inspired, this museum is a gem. The old villa and its garden of olive trees offer a peaceful setting. It's the perfect place to enjoy Matisse's vivid and beautiful creations.

Explore the Lush Parc Phoenix

Parc Phoenix is a beautiful place on the edge of Nice. It's a big garden and zoo with many plants and animals. The green trees, calm ponds, and well-tended gardens here will help you relax away from the busy city. It's a top recommendation for a visit in Nice.

Botanical Gardens

The garden at Parc Phoenix is very special. You can walk through different gardens and see plants from all over the world. Some of them are special to the region around Nice.

Impressive Glasshouse

There's also a big glass building at Parc Phoenix. Inside, you'll find rare plants and even butterflies. It's a chance to be in the middle of a vibrant, green world and see nature's beauty close up.

Zoo and Wildlife

Parc Phoenix also has a zoo with interesting animals. You can see meerkats playing and big birds flying. It's a fun and educational place for everyone.

Visiting Parc Phoenix is great for those who love nature or want a break from the city. It's a stunning place that shows off the French Riviera's beauty. This garden and zoo are among the best spots to see in Nice.

Indulge in Luxury at a Prestigious Hotel

Nice, France is home to many luxurious hotels. These places show the city's elegance and style perfectly. Whether it's the classic charm of Hotel Le Negresco, with its grand palm trees, or the modern look of Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, your stay will be elegant and rich along the French Riviera.

Iconic Hotels with Ocean Views

Hôtel La Pérouse is our top luxury pick in Nice. It's placed right next to Castle Hill, giving it stunning panoramic ocean views. This hotel, built in the 1930s, recently got a full renovation. Guests can enjoy a peaceful break with superb services.

Opulent Accommodations

At Hôtel La Pérouse, the blend of old-world charm with the best modern amenities is seamless. The rooms are spacious and the spa and dining are first-class. It's perfect for a romantically beautiful getaway or just to indulge along the French Riviera. You'll have an amazing time here.