The capital of the French Riviera offers a remarkable blend of Mediterranean glamour, historic depth, and vibrant local culture. Unlike the sleepy villages that dot the surrounding coastline, Nice pulses with an energy that draws everyone from sun-seeking families to art aficionados and food lovers.
With its famous pebbled beaches, world-class museums, and a labyrinthine Old Town painted in shades of ochre and terracotta, the city provides a sensory experience that is uniquely Niçois. The blend of French and Italian influences is palpable, creating a distinct identity that feels both sophisticated and warmly welcoming.
Understanding how to navigate this sprawling coastal metropolis is key to unlocking its true charm. While the Promenade des Anglais often steals the spotlight, the city’s soul lies in its hidden squares, bustling markets, and panoramic viewpoints that require a bit of exploration.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay on the Côte d’Azur, this guide will help you curate the perfect itinerary. We have compiled a list of essential experiences that balance the iconic landmarks with the authentic local haunts.
From savoring the local street food to hiking up to waterfalls, these activities are designed to show you the diverse layers of this beautiful city. Here is our curated selection of the best attractions and experiences Nice has to offer.
Colline du Château
| Address | 06300 Nice |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Best way to explore and admire the Nice town from above is by little hiking, visiting collines du Château, the palace with pretty waterfalls that has been acknowledged by UNESCO as the winter resort town of the French Riviera Peninsula (côte d’azur).
Don’t worry for the senior citizens, or if you don’t want to hiking by stairs you can use public ancesseur, but usually it’s very packed with people long queues, you need to be patient.
When you reach the top, you will find so many sections, kids friendly playground, many 360 degree view points, historical sculptures, memoir of the victims of terrorist acts, etc.
Lovely walk to the falls. Unfortunately, we ended up doing the hike in the middle of the day when the temperature was over 35°C, and the kids had a tough time with the heat.
I would recommend doing it in the evening instead. The temperatures are more comfortable, and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful sunset view from the top. Highly recommended! 😊🌅🌿
Super great view a must! If you visit Nice this attraction spot is you can see outlook view point of the port and beach side. Highly recommend!!! To visit. Should spend half day over here and there are walkway down the beach too.
Beautiful, you will get a lot of steps in. I think there are tours available on golf cart trains if you don’t want to climb. There are no clear directions so we had to depend on asking others. It’s worth visiting for sure.
The views at Colline du Château were absolutely breathtaking. Almost every corner was Instagram-worthy, making it such a beautiful place to explore and take photos.
We ended up staying for quite a while because of the stunning panoramic views overlooking the Promenade des Anglais, the city, and Port Lympia on the other side. Despite the number of tourists around, the atmosphere still felt serene and peaceful.
The combination of nature, fresh air, and relaxing scenery made the whole experience incredibly calming and enjoyable.
Parc Phœnix
| Address | 405 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 92 29 77 00 |
Parc Phœnix is a really enjoyable experience and great value for money, with entry costing around €6. There is plenty to see, including crocodiles, wallabies, otters, flamingos, insects, snakes, porcupines, peacocks, chickens, goats and more. The animals all appeared well cared for which was nice to see.
One of the highlights is the indoor area with large glass ceilings, which creates a really unique environment. There are also lots of outdoor spaces with plenty of seating, surrounded by beautiful palm trees, gardens and water features.
There is a small restaurant or snack hut on site, and toilets are available throughout the park. The staff are very friendly and helpful. In addition to the animals, there are also lots of interesting plants and flowers to explore.
The location is very convenient, being close to transport links, the airport and nearby hotels, making it an easy and worthwhile visit.
Overall, a great place to spend a few hours, especially for the price 🌴🦩
A very pleasant place to visit, and extremely easy to reach by public transport. The park is well maintained and nicely landscaped, and the animals generally seemed to be kept in reasonably good conditions. I also didn’t notice much stereotypical or repetitive behavior, which was reassuring from an animal welfare perspective.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see the Asian small-clawed otters. It was a very hot day, so they may have been staying indoors or somewhere cooler.
I arrived at around 3 p.m., and one thing to be aware of is that the large glass-domed greenhouse can become extremely hot and stuffy in the afternoon. There didn’t seem to be much ventilation, so it was quite uncomfortable in the heat.
As an international visitor, I also think the signage could be improved. It would be helpful to have more direction signs at intersections inside the park. At the moment, many signs only show the French names of the animals. Adding English names, or even simple animal illustrations/icons, would make navigation much easier and more intuitive for foreign visitors.
Overall, a convenient and enjoyable park with good landscaping and a positive impression of animal care, but the visitor experience could be improved with better multilingual signage and ventilation in the greenhouse.
Beautiful gardens, and interesting smaller animals to see, can't believe it was only €5.50 entry! I loved the Tamarins, my husband liked the crocodiles, and we both liked the otters and chickens! We visited earlier today - a Tuesday in late May, by tram (very easily accesible from Nice), and it was quiet. Unfortunately the Museum of Asian Arts is closed on Tues. N.B. it is right next to the airport, so expect some noise and jet fuel smells (but you can't help the neighbours!).
Amazing! What great value, our kids were free and we were only €5.50 each to get in. If this was in the UK it would be about £25-30 each, if not more..! We had such a lovely morning wandering around and enjoying all the park has to offer, we could probably have spent longer if we didn't have plans in the afternoon. Worth a visit for sure.
Beautiful greenhouses and gardens with picnic tables if you want to pack a picnic( or small kiosk for crepes, Ice-cream) , a few animals and a playground for children. Restrooms near the entrance (also wheelchair accessible). Parking streetside could be problematic 2 hr max. Parking lot may be a better option. Located directly in front of Nice airport.
Cascade du Château
| Address | All. Professeur Benoît, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
We visited Colline du Château a couple of weeks ago, and it is an absolute must-do when in Nice! It offers spectacular, 360-degree views overlooking the city and the beautiful water.
There are different routes to go up and come down, making the whole exploration feel like a mini-adventure.
We took the lift going up (expect a bit of a waiting line) and took the stairs coming down, which was much quicker.
There are one or two cafes/refreshment spots on top to grab a quick drink or snack.
Very safe and clean environment. There are well-maintained, paid public toilets on-site.
Don't miss the waterfall—it's a beautiful hidden gem! The path isn't perfectly straightforward but easy enough to find. There is also a great dedicated play area for infants and kids, making it highly recommended for families.
A beautiful spot in the city and a must visit for any first time visitors. It’s a bit of a maze climbing the hill and I didn’t find the signposts too helpful, but when you do reach the fountain it’s a great relaxing area, with wonderful views over the city and coast. The fact it remains free to go to the area is great, and the cafes once there are a nice place to recover. It was one of the highlights of my time in the city.
Although the waterfall itself is man-made, the greenery surrounding it, the views from here and the serenity is something to be protected and cherished.
Visited Nice a couple of weeks ago and went up the hill—Colline du Château. We took the elevator going back and the stairs to come down—spectacular views from up top overlooking the city and the water.
I liked the views of Nice aswell as the lovely calming waterfall gently touching you.It was a great opportunity to take panoramic pics and vids.
old nice
| Address | old nice, Nice |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
French Riviera Sightseeing
| Address | 6 Av. des Pins, 06200 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 06 75 99 70 30 |
As a solo traveller, this was the perfect way to explore the French Riviera. I had a fantastic day and would highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see the region's highlights in a single day.
We visited Èze Village and the perfume factory, Monaco and the Monte Carlo Casino (including a drive along the Grand Prix circuit), Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence—all in one day. It was a busy schedule, but it allowed me to experience so many beautiful places and discover where I'd like to return and spend more time.
A special thank you to Samantha, who was an amazing guide—friendly, knowledgeable, and organised. Everything ran seamless from start to finish, and the group was so friendly, and welcoming, which made the day even more enjoyable.
Merci beaucoup to Samantha and everyone on the tour for such a wonderful experience!
Samantha, our guide was absolutely remarkable. She picked me up from my hotel and it was a wonderful experience from start to finish. She was excellent in providing education and history of the landmarks we visited. A wonderful experience not to be forgotten. I highly recommend you book a day trip!!!!! Samantha thank you for your pearls of wisdom !!!!!
David was a delight, he made our whole trip so fun and really set the day off on the perfect vibe! His advice and recommendations were wonderful, and felt much more like spending a day with a friend!
All the stops were for the perfect amount of time, and as a nervous passenger the driving was incredibly smooth and comfortable!
Thanks for such a fun day!
The tour was as described, but you are definitely on your own at each stop. It was a whirlwind of seeing so many places all in one day. Our driver Clinton was professional, safe and punctual. Clinton briefly described the places as he drove and then we had approximately 40 minutes to explore the towns, find toilets, etc.That doesn’t leave much time for anything extra. Lunch was “pick up a sandwich as you walk” around the old town of Monaco. If you wait to see the changing of the guards, you won’t see anything else. We walked around instead, went into the cathedral and sat down at a cafe as we ate our take away, and enjoyed it. I would recommend researching the towns and downloading maps beforehand as we walked in pretty clueless but still enjoyed exploring. Bring your own water, and .50 coins for public bathrooms. The driver explained how to get to these places by tour or train, times of festivals for future trips. Quick overview trip. Too many places in one day IMO.
The excursion was very well organized and included visits to Eze, Monaco, and several beautiful viewpoints along the way. The perfume factory tour was a lovely bonus that added to the overall experience. Armen was a friendly, punctual, and knowledgeable guide who made the trip even more enjoyable. Highly recommended!
Fontaine du Soleil
| Address | 3 Pl. Massena, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Visiting Fontaine du Soleil was honestly one of the highlights of walking through Nice, France 🇫🇷☀️✨ The fountain is absolutely stunning in person and the entire area around it has such an amazing atmosphere. Seeing the massive statue of Apollo standing in the centre surrounded by beautiful fountains and sculptures makes the whole square feel elegant and full of life.
The location itself is perfect right in the heart of Nice, surrounded by beautiful architecture, cafés, shops, and the lively energy of the city. It’s one of those places where you naturally stop and take everything in because every direction looks beautiful. During the day, the fountain shines under the sun and at night it becomes even more breathtaking when everything lights up. 🌅📸
One thing I loved most was how lively yet relaxing the atmosphere felt. There were people sitting nearby enjoying the scenery, taking photos, and just soaking in the energy of Nice. The sound of the water combined with the warm weather and palm trees nearby honestly made it feel like the perfect French Riviera experience. 🌴🌊
The details throughout the fountain and statues are incredible too. The artwork and design give the entire square such a grand and elegant feel while still feeling welcoming and peaceful. It’s also an amazing spot for photos because the scenery around the fountain is beautiful from every angle.
Fontaine du Soleil completely exceeded my expectations. Beautiful, vibrant, elegant, and unforgettable all at once. It perfectly captures the atmosphere and charm of Nice and is absolutely a must see if you’re visiting the city. Definitely one of my favourite spots in the South of France 🙌🇫🇷☀️
Visiting Fontaine du Soleil was one of my favourite parts of exploring Nice. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by how beautiful the fountain is in person. The huge statue of Apollo standing in the middle, surrounded by elegant fountains and sculptures, really makes the whole square feel special.
The location is perfect, right in the centre of the city and surrounded by lovely architecture, cafés, shops, and plenty of people enjoying the atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but stop for a few minutes to take everything in. During the day it looks stunning in the sunshine, and in the evening it’s even more beautiful when the lights come on.
What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere. It felt lively without being overwhelming, and there were people relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying the surroundings. Listening to the water while standing among the palm trees in the warm weather really gave me that classic French Riviera feeling.
The detail in the fountain and statues is incredible, and no matter where you stand, it’s a great place to take photos. Every angle offers a different view, making it one of the most photogenic spots I visited in Nice.
For me, Fontaine du Soleil completely lived up to the hype. It’s beautiful, elegant, full of character, and a place I’d happily visit again. If you’re spending time in Nice, I definitely think it’s worth stopping by. It ended up being one of my favourite places in the South of France.
It was a nice stroll along the beach.
Beautiful architecture
There was a street market with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as a section for plants.
If you need a public bathroom, be prepared to have a 50cent euro or free if you purchase in a local eatery
Very beautiful square with a gorgeous fountain at the center, the red buildings surrounding it create such an amazing atmosfere. A must visit when in Nice.
Fontaine du Soleil - Fountain of the Sun. It is the statue of Apollo with five bronze statues of Earth, Mars, Venus, Mercury, and Saturn.
In Place Massena of Nice of France, this large and beautiful fountain is placed. An impressive marble Statue of Apollo, with 5 bronze sculptures in the basin. Apollo is here 7 meters (23 feet) tall and weighs in at 7 tons. The square is very big and beautiful.
Place Masséna
| Address | Plassa Carlou Aubert, 06000 Nice |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
One of the nicest experience of walking through the city of Nice. The statue of the Prince , the water fountain and surrounded by beautiful architecture, cafés, shops, and the lively energy of the city. It’s one of those places where you naturally stop and take everything in because every direction looks beautiful. During the day, the fountain shines under the sun and during the sunset hour, or at night it becomes even more breathtaking when everything lights up. There are also city lights with unique features.
It’s also an amazing spot for photos because the scenery around the fountain is beautiful from every angle.
Whether you walk alone or with your loved ones will be memorable for a long timez take a long walk alongside promenade des Anglais until the old town of Nice.
Place Masséna is the vibrant heart of Nice. The combination of the stunning Fontaine du Soleil, the striking red architecture, and the black-and-white checkered pavement creates a unique atmosphere. It’s perfect for people-watching, taking photos, or just soaking in the energy of the French Riviera. A true landmark that you simply cannot miss!
When you arrive here you have to stand still, turn 360 degrees slowly, and take in the views and the atmosphere. A beautiful square, and on the day I visited there was a classic car rally. Wonderful.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
A wonderful place to visit, with a great atmosphere and plenty of tourists enjoying the area. It is clean, well-maintained, and offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops. There is always something to see and do, making it an enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages.
The only downside was the presence of a few people asking for money, but this did not significantly affect the overall experience.
Overall, a very pleasant place that I would happily visit again and recommend to others.
We had the opportunity to visit during Carnival de Nice and it was a wonderful experience. We felt safe and everything was beautiful. The crowd was well behaved and the experience was excellent
Marc Chagall National Museum
| Address | Av. Dr Ménard, 06000 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:30 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 53 87 20 |
The collection is great, but not huge - 1.5h should be fine if you stay to watch the documentary. A must if you are interested in dance. However, the museum clearly has a few issues to address.
First of all, it should be written on the website that large bags are not allowed, especially if you spend some time getting there - I couldn’t find anything. I understand there are no big lockers inside, but this is a major downside for a national museum that is mainly visited by international tourists. Besides, security checks are overwhelming, especially cause majority of staff don’t speak English and get easily annoyed and irritated, which is problematic in a touristic city like Nice. I understand there are protocols and rules, which I accept, but there are many other ways to arrange the checks in a more effective way so that you don’t have to open your bags twice, for example. Moreover, the lady at the last check was extremely rude. She started to argue with me when I was sharing some thoughts with my partner about the checks - very inappropriate and unprofessional. I am an artist and I've been in museums all over the world, and my experience here has been the weirdest I've ever had. Visitors should be welcomed and supported, not the opposite. The only staff member who was polite and helpful was the one taking care of the bags - she was lovely.
The treasure you have there must be shared with as many people as possible, so make visitors experience as good and accessible as it can be!
The neighborhood is nice and the villa itself is pleasant. I don’t dispute Chagall’s importance and contribution to art, but his style is definitely not for everyone.
The museum is quite small, basically consisting of one main area with the permanent collection, plus a few side rooms that were closed for restoration. The rest was exhibitions (from what I understood) explaining more about Chagall’s work.
I liked that you can use your phone to listen to the audio guide, although the explanations for each painting are quite detailed. If you’re an art lover this place is for you.
We visited this museum in April, which is considered winter season in Nice. It's not yet crowded with tourists. But there was already a line outside. We waited about half an hour. It was a weekday in the morning. An adult ticket costs 10 euros per person. There's a bag search at the ticket office and at the museum entrance. We had to leave our backpacks behind. They also took our water. It's very convenient that you can listen to an audio guide in many languages using the app's screenshot. It helps you understand the meaning of the paintings and the artist's intent. I thought the museum was too small, but that's just my opinion. I asked the security guard if I could buy a ticket online. He told me it wasn't possible. It's easy to get there on foot or by bus. The grounds are beautiful and picturesque. Across the street, there's a beautiful park where you can relax with your family or alone.
Must go place in Nice. I was so impressed to the collection. good explanations for his art work, specially biblical themed arts !!! And very thanks to the kind staffs. One of the staff members knew that I wanted to take a photo in front of a particular painting but couldn’t because it was too crowded. When it became less busy, they even came to find me. I was truly grateful. They explained the stories behind all the paintings so well, and the way the rooms, the building, and everything else were arranged helped me understand Chagall’s works much better. I love love it 💕 you must visit this place if you are art lover and love Chagall’s art..
A member of our group was keen to see Chagall’s work so we walked from the Old Town to the Museum. Totally chaotic and unnecessarily long queue to buy our tickets, then to have bags checked and water bottles removed. This took 45 mins!!
The museum is small so our visit was short in reality. The works are well curated, one room is closed.
Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
| Address | Av. Nicolas II, 06000 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 5:30 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 5:30 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 5:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 5:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 – 5:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 09 81 09 53 45 |
Also called the Cathedral russe, it is a Russian cathedral hiding near the train station. It's signature onion-shaped domes were great for photos! The inside of the church is not very big, comes with a small shop and a kind lady introducing the products.
I highly recommend buying a ticket to the basement exhibition. When I visited, it was on the objects used by the Tsar during WWI. The ceiling of the cellar is magnificent! The lady was very nice too! She showed me the English materials, so I can enjoy the exhibition better!
The opening hours on Google Map could be wrong. I visited in early July, Google Map said it's only open in weekends, but when I visited it, it is open! A surprise for me to complete my Riviera trip!!
Thank you so much for the lovely experience!
Very unexpected to see in Nice Russian Orthodox Cathedral. It is said that its the biggest Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe, and serve Russian community of Nice and Monaco. Interior is magnificent and if you'll have a chance to listen to the bells play, you'll be amazed. Its all made by bell player on the top of the tower.
Gorgeous cathedral and yes very very orthodox indeed.
I was wearing a backless long dress. The lady there gave me a scarf to cover the back to be respectful and I genuinely thank her for not kicking me out instead.
An unexpectedly splendid Russian Orthodox Cathedral that looks straight out of Moscow in the middle of Nice. Good, informative tour offered. By the time they are finished telling you about this relative of the Tsar, and that relative of the Tsar, it's a bit difficult to sort out. But the icons and the ornate design are a sight to behold.
This was truly one of my favourite places when we visited Europe in 2025. We stayed for hours. If you really want to appreciate it plan for two hours and really look at the art. The intricacy of the art was breathtaking. Every piece in the sanctuary and in the basement was a treasure. It was only when we went to Italy that we found out how time consuming the gold leaf process was in art, and it made me appreciate the works in this church even more. And the bunnies are really tame, one let me pet it- although one looked like a Dracula bunny from a story I used to read my kids, so I stayed clear of it just in case.
#ILoveNICE
| Address | 9 Quai Rauba Capeu, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
One of my favorite places in Nice! The famous #ILoveNice sign is not just a popular photo spot — the whole atmosphere around it is really special. The view of the sea is beautiful, the air feels fresh, and there is something very relaxing about walking along the promenade and simply enjoying the moment. I loved watching people walking, cycling, and sitting by the water while the city felt full of life but still peaceful at the same time. It’s one of those places where you naturally want to stop, take photos, and just appreciate the scenery. If you are visiting Nice, I would definitely recommend coming here, especially on a sunny day. It leaves a very warm and memorable impression.
Downtown old town was definitely a heavy party crowd. Not as much of the historic left as would have hoped, nor was there as much effort to preserve or display it as there is in a lot of other places. They dod do a great job of cleaning up and housing down the streets every morning. Fun note, there are at least a couple pizza vendong machines available 24/7 (as long as they weren't sold out, and it seemed like the partiers put a pretty hit on them at night). Bonus, the pizza from the one I tried was pretty legit, maybe they have something up on the Italians? Lol.
Driving in downtown was city crowded, but the streets, even with GPS, were still confusing to navigate. I have a few years experience driving in Italy, and many other European countries, but this one's close, intricate turns and levels were something.
Enjoy Nice!
Nice, France was honestly one of the most beautiful and relaxing places I’ve ever visited 🇫🇷🌊☀️ The entire city has such an amazing atmosphere with the perfect mix of luxury, history, beaches, and incredible scenery everywhere you look. Walking along the Promenade des Anglais with the bright blue Mediterranean water beside you honestly feels surreal. The colour of the water alone looks unreal in person.
One thing I loved most about Nice was how lively yet peaceful it felt at the same time. You can spend the day relaxing by the beach, exploring the charming streets, shopping, or sitting at a café enjoying the atmosphere and amazing food. Every part of the city feels elegant and full of life. 🌴✨
The views throughout Nice are absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re walking through Old Town with its colourful buildings and narrow streets or looking out over the coastline from higher viewpoints, every angle looks like a postcard. The sunsets over the Mediterranean were especially unforgettable and made the whole city feel magical at night. 🌅📸
The food and restaurants were amazing too. Sitting outside at cafés and restaurants while enjoying the warm weather and beautiful surroundings made every meal feel like an experience. The entire city has such a relaxed and welcoming vibe that makes you never want to leave.
What really makes Nice special is the atmosphere. There’s just something about the combination of the ocean, architecture, palm trees, luxury cars, yachts, and relaxed French Riviera lifestyle that makes the city feel unforgettable. It’s elegant without feeling overwhelming and beautiful without even trying.
Nice completely exceeded every expectation I had. Peaceful, vibrant, breathtaking, and unforgettable all at once. Definitely one of my favourite places I’ve ever visited and somewhere I’d absolutely love to come back to again someday 🙌🇫🇷🌊✨
Very cool N I C E SIGN !!!
IT IS UP ON THE HILL WITH A GREAT VIEW OF THE WHOLE BEACH OF NICE ALL THE WAY PAST THE AIRPORT. YOU CAN SEE THE MOUNTAINS BEHIND WITH THE SNOW ON IT. THERE WILL BE A LINE FOR PEOPLE TAKING A PICTURE. WE TOOK OUR TIME, DID A VIDEO OR 2? AND I EVEN GOT A PICTURE WITH A BUDDHIST MONK WHICH I THOUGHT WAS REALLY COOL. IT GETS VERY QUIET AT DARK.SO IF YOU LIKE NIGHTTIME, TIME SHOTS, THIS WOULD BE A GOOD TIME DURING THE DAY.IT IS VERY BUSY
I felt amazed be here.
The jewel of the French Riviera, is a captivating city that effortlessly blends seaside charm with sophisticated urban life. I adore it for its perpetually sunny climate and the breathtaking Mediterranean backdrop of the Baie des Anges. The iconic Promenade des Anglais, lined with palm trees and the striking blue of the sea, is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The vibrant Old Town, or Vieux Nice, is a feast for the senses, with its narrow, twisting streets, bustling markets like Cours Saleya, and charming, sun-drenched squares. Here, the Italian influence on the architecture and cuisine is apparent, a nod to the city’s history. You can enjoy authentic Niçoise dishes, fresh gelato, and explore a wealth of boutiques and restaurants.
Another reason for my love of Nice is its rich artistic heritage, which has drawn artists like Matisse and Chagall. For panoramic views that steal your breath away, the climb up Castle Hill is well worth it, revealing sweeping vistas of the city and coastline. Nice is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that awakens the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption
| Address | 2 Rue d'Italie, 06000 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 88 73 63 |
Visiting Notre-Dame in France was honestly one of the most breathtaking and unforgettable experiences ever 🇫🇷✨ The moment you see the cathedral in person, it completely takes your breath away. The size, the architecture, and the incredible detail throughout the entire building are absolutely unreal. Pictures genuinely cannot capture how beautiful and massive it feels standing right in front of it.
What amazed me most was the incredible craftsmanship and detail everywhere you look. From the towering gothic architecture and stained glass windows to the statues, carvings, and intricate stonework, every part of Notre-Dame feels like a masterpiece. You can spend so much time just admiring the details because there’s something beautiful in every direction. 🏛️🌟
The atmosphere around the cathedral is amazing too. Standing nearby and taking in the history and beauty of such an iconic landmark felt surreal. Even after everything the cathedral has gone through over the years, it still stands as one of the most powerful and beautiful places in Paris.
Inside, the atmosphere feels peaceful, historic, and almost magical. The lighting through the stained glass windows creates such a beautiful feeling throughout the cathedral and makes the entire experience feel even more special. You can really feel the history and importance surrounding the building while walking through it. 📸✨
The area around Notre-Dame is beautiful as well with the Seine River, nearby cafés, bridges, and the classic Paris atmosphere all around you. It honestly feels like stepping into another time period while still being right in the heart of the city.
Notre-Dame completely exceeded every expectation I had. Historic, breathtaking, elegant, and unforgettable all at once. It’s absolutely a must see if you’re visiting Paris and definitely one of the most incredible landmarks I’ve ever experienced 🙌🇫🇷✨
This is a beautiful basilica. Although je ne comprends pas tout, of the sermon, It’s a lovely welcoming space and community.
Beautiful Neo-Gothic basilica. The Nice facade replicates all the key features of Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris. The first stone was laid in 1864 and completed in 1879. It's convenient located in city center.
A beautiful and impressive basilica in Nice. The architecture is stunning and the interior is quite peaceful. A lovely spot to visit!
We went for the Luminescence show that happens in December - a wonderful display of lights, colours, and live choir music set in this wonderful building! If you get the chance, it's absolutely worth a visit in December, but book tickets for the show in advance!
Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice
| Address | 3 Pl. Rossetti, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 06 14 62 57 87 |
Cathédrale Sainte‑Réparate is a beautiful and peaceful spot in the heart of Nice’s Old Town. The colorful Baroque façade stands out immediately, and the interior is even more impressive — elegant chapels, warm light, and detailed artwork that make it a lovely place to pause while exploring the narrow streets around it.
It’s not a large cathedral, but it has a lot of charm and character. A quick, worthwhile stop if you’re wandering through Vieux Nice.
Came to know that it is a Baroque cathedral, just in the heart of the Nice Ville. Very good looking worshipping place with some good architecture. Lots of restaurants were outside. But the inside was calm and quiet.
One of the first things to do after having icecreams at Fenocchio is to enter this Baroque cathedral in Place Rossetti.
Established in 1699 and elevated to the status of Basilica in 1949, it houses the relics of St. Reparate, a woman martyred in Palestine, whose remains were brought to Nice in 1060.
With 10 highly decorated chapels and an 11th one for baptism, this place of worship will easily take you 30-40 mins to admire if not more. Beware that churches here close at 6 PM, so try to enter atleast an hour earlier to beat the late afternoon crowds.
An absolute marvel of a Cathedral! The cathedral was built in a baroque style and is dedicated to Saint Reparata, patroness of Nice. Its exterior is just as grand as its interior. It is in the heart of Nice’s old town and for centuries has housed the Diocese of Nice.
Very beautiful Cathedral in the old town, Vieux-Nice, the interior is quite amazing, baroue style, very calm, almost no tourists so it's possible to enjoy the beauty in peace.
Marché Aux Fleurs - Cours Saleya - Nice
| Address | Cr Saleya, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Must visit marche in Nice, one of the oldest marche and full of hidden secrets and gems, traditional local foods like socca, pissadelliere, salad niçois etc, many local handicrafts / handmade shops for souvenirs. Pretty pastel and colourful alleys along the way.
A must-visit gem in Nice!
Marché aux Fleurs at Cours Saleya is absolutely breathtaking and captures the true spirit of the French Riviera. The vibrant colors of fresh flowers, local produce, and artisanal goods create such a lively and joyful atmosphere. Walking through the market feels like a celebration of life—filled with wonderful scents, friendly vendors, and beautiful surroundings just steps from the sea.
It’s the perfect place for a morning stroll, people-watching, and soaking in authentic Niçoise culture. Whether you’re buying flowers, tasting local specialties, or simply enjoying the ambiance, this market is unforgettable. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Nice!
Always a wonderful idea to take a stroll through the market! The flowers are gorgeous and the stands have many different products, that would make for a perfect souvenir
oh my gosh, this place was a dream. I bought beautiful flowers and brought them back to my hotel and had them for the week in my hotel. The fruits and vegetables are gorgeous and we brought back some berries and ate them for the week as well.
A wonderful market to explore while in Nice. It’s not just flowers — you’ll also find spices, oysters, local soaps, and all kinds of regional products. A vibrant, colorful place and a great spot for a relaxed walk through the old town. 🌸🦪🧂
Cascade de Gairaut
| Address | Rac de la Croix, 06100 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
There isn't much to see, but the views are worth seeing. A beautiful place with a waterfall, we were there in December, the weather was good and we captured beautiful photos of memories
Great place to spend few hours with most beautiful scenery... we love it
Beautiful and impressive! A striking sight after walking there along the Canal de Gairaut (which to our disappointment was unfortunately dry) which is the nicest way to get here. Lovely place in the summer, it’s literally refreshing. Too bad the guardhouse is is falling into disrepair and that one can’t visit it. We took the bus back to Nice city center, the bus stop is just behind the guard house, very convenient.
Amazing Waterfall, be prepared as there are a potion steps to climb but worth every step. Also refreshing letting the fall spray you down especially on hot days.
One of the amazing place with a good hike from Nice, not so touristy as many people doesn’t know about this place. Also have the city view from the top. Very calming, peaceful and refreshing.
Parc national du Mercantour
| Address | 23 Rue d'Italie, 06000 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | 04 93 16 78 88 |
Really nice piece of nature. Wonderful landscapes and stable weather for hiking up to the saddles as late as early winter. Plenty of hiking trails, besides the most popular GRs, in almost every valley. Trail marking is visible and with suitable maps, there shouldn't be any problems with orientation, especially above the tee line. Most of the mountain cabins (refuges) can be used as overnight shelter during winter, as well.
Amazing hike to the Mount Pelat with wonderful views on the Allos Lake
Beuatiful views in a gorgeous area with varied hiking, mountainbiking and climbing opportunities, all within walking distance or a short car ride away. We go every year and still haven't seen everything or gotten bored of the area yet.
Lac de Trécolpas: Breathtaking Beauty with Easy Trails
Lac de Trécolpas in Mercantour National Park is a dream destination for hikers. The well-maintained trails around the lake are perfect for all levels, from beginners to experienced trekkers. The turquoise waters and surrounding peaks offer stunning panoramic views that will leave you speechless.
Safety is a priority at Lac de Trécolpas. The wide trails provide ample space for social distancing, and there are plenty of rest areas along the way for you to relax and take in the scenery.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Lac de Trécolpas is a great choice.
Absolutely stunning views, and crazy that it's only 2 hours from Nice! Slopes here are quite difficult, so take it easy. The black slopes in the U.S. are way tamer than the black ones here 😅
Villa Masséna, musée d'art et d'histoire
| Address | 65 Rue de France, 06000 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 91 19 10 |
While out for a stroll on the promenade during our vacation, we came across this magnificent museum. The first floor is sumptuous, and the following ones are just as beautiful. The artworks are beautifully presented. There is also a temporary exhibition on the top floor
A safe haven from the heat. But that's not all the Villa Masséna is about.
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Villa Masséna. The mansion itself is stunning, with beautifully preserved rooms that give a fascinating glimpse into the history and elegance of the French Riviera. The collection of artworks was excellent, and I particularly enjoyed strolling through the peaceful gardens, which are just as impressive as the museum itself.
One of the highlights for me was seeing Napoleon's death mask, which was both fascinating and surprisingly moving. It's a unique piece of history that makes the visit even more memorable.
Admission costs €10, but I'd highly recommend purchasing the 4-day museum pass for €15 if you plan to visit other museums in Nice, as it offers excellent value. I'm heading to the Musée Matisse next, and Villa Masséna has certainly set a high standard.
A wonderful experience that I'd happily recommend to anyone visiting Nice.
On holiday with friends so this museum was part of our museum pass, gardens are peaceful, I was sadly quite disappointed by the interior of the museum. Yes it is a beautiful palace in Nice and has some large piece of contemporary furniture of the time but almost ‘so what’?! All descriptions are in French and whilst I could use google translate, why? I just whizzed through and waited in the garden.
10 euros for the entry per person. It took 1h-ish to do a tour of this museum. Quite nice and interesting to see the history of Nice with paintings and posters and famous mask of Napoleon.
This is a really well maintained and high quality place in Nice, and worth a visit if you are interested in the history of the city and the building itself.
The garden is beautiful, and free to enjoy. The museum itself is not too expensive, and students can enter free.
Viewpoint
| Address | M7WH+9W, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Spectacular view of Nice from the castle hill. It's worth making the steep trip up the hill. On the hilltop is also a cafe and a playground.
Incredible views of the Promenade from this viewpoint.
We travelled up by the electric train. It is $12 per person to ride and stops at this viewpoint for 10 mins.
We elected not to get back on train for the return journey and instead stayed to enjoy the view and the walk back down to the Promenade.
Wonderful viewpoint to see the entire city up to the airport. You get a great view of the entire Promenade des Anglais. It is especially beautiful in the evening when the lights are on. This is right on top of the waterfall.
This particular viewpoint offers an unparalleled vantage to take in the entirety of Promenade des Anglais and the sprawling cityscape beyond. The view it presents is nothing short of awe-inspiring, capturing the essence of the vibrant city below. If you're seeking an experience that encapsulates the grandeur of the promenade and the urban landscape, this viewpoint is an absolute must-visit. Standing there, you'll feel a sense of amazement as the panorama unfolds before your eyes, granting you a comprehensive understanding of the city's layout and beauty. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend making the journey to this viewpoint; the visual spectacle and the unique perspective it offers are truly worth it.
If the beach doesn’t tickle you fancy, get a workout and go up the long and winding steps for a view. Be inspired. There is also a cafe that sells wine and desserts or coffee.
Parc du Mont Boron
| Address | 4 Boulevard Maurice Maeterlinck, 06300 Nice |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
A beautiful park with wonderful views of the surrounding area and plenty of picnic tables and benches to eat at. There are also little offshoot trails that loop around the park that are nice to walk down. The bus stops near the picnic tables but far away from the fort / castle near the top so be prepared to walk if you take transit.
Hiked up from old town Nice. It was quite a hike, but we made it in about an hour or so. Hiked down the other side to Villfranche. Ended up taking the train back to Nice.
Well worth the short climb up to this park. You will be rewarded with views of the old town of Nice as well as the beachfront. The new town and the mountains beyond are present in the background. Lots of places to relax on the grass and several benches. There are about a dozen viewpoints including the panaroma right at the top. Take food and water with you if you need them.
Lovely park to visit for a picnic, a good walk (fairly hilly), or to visit the fort (only external viewing available).
You can drive right up to the top with free parking, or get the bus from Nice .
Great views from the top of both Nice and Villefranche. The walk back down into Nice is scenic and very steep. Just a word of warning. The walk through the trees that is mapped in one of my pictures is very rough, rocky, and requires good footwear.
Exquisite views and history available to experience anytime on this hilltop park. Besure to walk the Stairs and ally ways through old town to get a true appreciation of this mountain side village. Spectacular sweeping views of the coast and mountains allow you to see from the Surf to the Snow. Walk the Stone path and find the bay, the cove, top of the hill with waterfall below... enjoy the history.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
To truly enjoy Nice like a local, a little insider knowledge goes a long way. The city has a unique rhythm and specific logistical quirks that can catch first-time visitors off guard.
By planning your transport, timing, and dining habits strategically, you can avoid common tourist pitfalls and uncover a more relaxed, authentic side of the Riviera.
1). Embrace the Pebble Beaches
The beaches in Nice are made of smooth stones, not sand. While this makes for crystal-clear water, it can be uncomfortable for lounging. Invest in a cheap straw mat or rent a padded lounger from one of the private beach clubs to ensure a comfortable day by the sea.
2). Rent a Bicycle or E-Scooter
The city is quite spread out, and walking from the Port to the Airport is a long trek. The dedicated bike lanes along the Promenade des Anglais are excellent. Renting a bike or using the city’s e-bike share system is the fastest and most scenic way to get around the bay.
3). Dine Late and Book Ahead
Niçois restaurants typically open for dinner service around 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM. If you arrive earlier, you may find kitchens closed. For popular restaurants in the Old Town, especially during the summer months, it is wise to book a table a day or two in advance.
4). Utilize the Tramway
The tram system is efficient, air-conditioned, and connects the main train station, the city center, the Old Town, and the Port. It is often much faster than trying to navigate the one-way streets by car or waiting for a bus.
5). Carry Cash for Markets
While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, the vendors at the Cours Saleya flower and food markets often prefer cash for small purchases. Having a few Euros on hand will make buying fresh produce or souvenirs much easier.
6). Validate Your Bus Tickets
If you purchase a paper ticket for the bus, you must validate it in the machine onboard. Failure to do so can result in a hefty fine if ticket inspectors board the vehicle.
The magic of Nice lies not just in the destinations, but in the moments in between—the pause at a sun-drenched café, the scent of freshly baked socca, and the sound of waves rolling over smooth stones. It is a city that encourages you to slow down and embrace the art of living well.
Whether you spend your days hiking the coastal paths, getting lost in the Baroque architecture of the Old Town, or simply watching the sunset paint the Baie des Anges in shades of pink and gold, Nice leaves a lasting impression. It is a destination that balances the glamour of the Riviera with a genuine, down-to-earth warmth that invites you to return time and time again.
