Bienvenue à Nice – the sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur where glamour, Mediterranean charm, and artistic legacy meet. From its turquoise waters and vibrant Old Town to its thriving food scene and chic city vibe, Nice is a destination that captures hearts instantly.
Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, Nice offers the perfect escape for sun-seekers, culture lovers, and foodies alike. Its mild climate makes it a year-round destination, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. The city feels cosmopolitan yet relaxed—a place where you can wear flip-flops to lunch but still sip Champagne by the sea.
1. Promenade des Anglais
Stretching over 7 km along the Bay of Angels, this iconic seafront walkway is perfect for morning jogs, bike rides, or watching sunset with a gelato in hand.
2. Vieille Ville (Old Town)
Step into a maze of narrow cobbled streets, vibrant baroque churches, lively cafés, and the famous Cours Saleya market, bursting with local produce and flowers.
3. Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Climb (or take the elevator) to this peaceful hilltop park for panoramic views of the city and the sea. It’s the perfect photo spot—and great for a picnic.
4. Museums Galore
Art lovers will be spoiled. Don't miss the Musée Matisse, located in a 17th-century Genoese villa, and the Marc Chagall National Museum, showcasing one of the largest public collections of Chagall’s works.
5. Nice Port & Coastal Walks
Explore the colorful harbor area and enjoy stunning walks along the coastline to hidden beaches and dramatic cliffs, especially around the Sentier du Littoral.
Nice’s cuisine is a delicious blend of French and Mediterranean flavors. Must-try dishes include:
Socca: A savory chickpea pancake, crispy and warm from the street stalls.
Salade Niçoise: The city's signature dish, best enjoyed with a glass of chilled rosé.
Pissaladière: A pizza-like tart topped with onions, anchovies, and olives.
Explore charming bistros in Old Town, Michelin-starred restaurants near the port, or sip espresso like a local in Place Rossetti.
Unlike sandy shores, Nice’s beaches are made of smooth pebbles—called “galets”—which keep the waters incredibly clear. Choose between free public beaches or rent a lounger at glamorous private beach clubs like Blue Beach or Castel Plage.
Nice is a perfect base for Riviera adventures:
Monaco – Jet-set luxury and Grand Prix vibes (30 min by train)
Èze – A fairytale hilltop village with sea views and artisan shops
Cannes – Film festival glitz, boutique shopping, and palm-lined boulevards
Situated between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, Nice enjoys a strategic location that combines the best of both worlds. It's a major hub on the French Riviera, making it an ideal starting point to explore the Côte d'Azur. The climate is Mediterranean, with 300+ days of sunshine annually, making it a prime destination year-round. Summers are warm, while winters are mild, perfect for escaping colder climates.
The Promenade des Anglais is the heart of Nice, stretching along the coast from Nice’s Old Town to the airport. Here, locals and tourists alike enjoy long walks, cycling, or simply relaxing on the iconic blue chairs that line the promenade. The view of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels) is unparalleled, and it’s especially romantic during sunset.
Old Town is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with baroque churches, café terraces, and local markets. At the Cours Saleya market, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, flowers, and local handicrafts. The area’s pastel-colored buildings and fragrant air make it one of the most photogenic spots in Nice.
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the coastline, hike or take the elevator up to Castle Hill. The ruins of an old castle are perched at the top, surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a peaceful retreat with panoramic vistas of the French Riviera, including the Bay of Angels and the Old Port.
Nice is home to an impressive range of art and history museums. The Musée Matisse showcases a large collection of works by Henri Matisse, who spent a significant portion of his life in Nice. Meanwhile, the Marc Chagall National Museum presents the largest public collection of Chagall’s works in France, with vibrant, dreamlike paintings that reflect the artist’s Jewish heritage and love of the Mediterranean.
The Nice Port area offers a picturesque view of colorful buildings and yachts. It’s also a fantastic spot for seafood lovers, with an array of fish restaurants lining the waterfront. From here, you can catch a boat to nearby islands, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stroll along the quays.
Nice is a paradise for food lovers. The Mediterranean influence is evident in every dish, and the cuisine is focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try foods:
Socca: A traditional street food made from chickpea flour, served hot and crispy.
Salade Niçoise: A classic salad made with tuna, olives, anchovies, tomatoes, and hard-boiled eggs.
Pissaladière: A type of savory pastry similar to pizza, topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.
Ratatouille: A Provençal vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes—perfectly embodying the flavors of southern France.
Don’t miss out on the local markets like the Marché de la Libération, which is an essential part of the culinary experience.
Unlike many Mediterranean beaches, Nice's coastline is lined with pebbles, not sand. Though the pebbly shores may take some getting used to, the waters are incredibly clear and perfect for swimming. The public beaches are free, but you can opt for private beach clubs where you can rent a sunbed, enjoy food and drinks, and have access to changing facilities. Some of the most famous ones include Blue Beach and Le Sporting Plage.
Nice is home to a wide range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to charming local shops. The Avenue Jean Médecin is the main shopping street, lined with international brands and French stores. For a more unique shopping experience, head to the Old Town, where you can find handmade jewelry, local art, and artisan goods. Antique lovers will also enjoy the Antique Market held every weekend in the Old Port.
Nice is conveniently located for some incredible day trips to nearby cities and villages:
Monaco (30 minutes by train): A small but glamorous city-state known for its luxurious casinos, yachts, and the famous Monte Carlo Casino.
Cannes (40 minutes by train): Home to the iconic Cannes Film Festival, and known for its swanky hotels and the beautiful Croisette Promenade.
Èze Village (20 minutes by bus): A medieval village perched high on a hill, offering stunning views of the coast and an opportunity to visit the world-renowned Fragonard Perfume Factory.
Antibes (30 minutes by train): Known for its charming old town and the Picasso Museum, located in the stunning Château Grimaldi.