Nice, France

Nestled along the sparkling coastline of the French Riviera, Nice is one of the most iconic cities in the South of France. With its mix of sun-soaked beaches, pastel-coloured buildings, and a vibrant cultural scene, Nice draws travellers seeking both relaxation and charm. From exploring Old Nice to strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, the city offers a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle and historic elegance.

How to Get to Nice

Nice is easily accessible by air, with Nice Côte d’Azur Airport serving domestic and international flights. From the airport, taxis, buses, and trams provide convenient access to the city centre. Train travel along the Côte d’Azur is also popular, connecting Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Cannes, Antibes, Monaco, and other French Riviera towns, making it ideal for day trips along the coast.

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Beaches of Nice

Nice is renowned for its French Riviera beaches. Plage Mala and Plage Passable offer sun-drenched sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming or lounging. Ponchettes Public Beach in the heart of the city is ideal for families, while quieter corners along the coastline provide a more relaxing escape. The French Riviera beach scene blends luxury with casual charm, often accompanied by nearby cafes and beachfront restaurants.

Old Nice (Vieux Nice)

The Old Quarter is the soul of the city, with narrow streets such as Rue Obscure and Rue Volti winding past vibrant markets and historic architecture. Marché Aux Fleurs bursts with colour, scent, and local produce, while cafes like Chez Thérésa and The Service Course Nice offer authentic tastes of local life. Exploring Old Nice provides a glimpse into traditional French culture and daily life in the South of France.

City Attractions

Colline du Château offers panoramic views over the city and coastline. Port de Nice Lympia is a lively marina area where visitors can enjoy dining at Rouge, Restaurant – Bar à vin, Brasserie de Castillon, or Le Plongeoir. Museums, galleries, and historic churches enrich the city’s cultural landscape, while scenic promenades and gardens offer peaceful moments along the bustling Riviera.

Day Trips from Nice

The surrounding French Riviera towns are easily reachable for day trips. Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offer scenic beaches and luxurious villas, while Menton, Èze, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence showcase charming hilltop villages, gardens, and local cuisine. Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco provide glimpses of high-glamour Riviera life, including the Monte Carlo Casino and Château Grimaldi, making each trip unique and memorable.

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Things to Do in Nice

• Relax on Plage Mala, Plage Passable, or Ponchettes Public Beach
• Stroll through Old Nice, Rue Obscure, and Rue Volti
• Shop at Marché Aux Fleurs and enjoy local pastries at Chez Thérésa
• Take in panoramic views from Colline du Château
• Explore Port de Nice Lympia and dine at waterfront restaurants
• Visit nearby villages like Èze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Villefranche-sur-Mer
• Enjoy day trips to Menton, Cannes, Antibes, Monaco, or Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Where to Stay

Nice offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Luxury hotels along the Promenade des Anglais provide seafront views, while boutique hotels in Old Nice place visitors within walking distance of markets, restaurants, and city attractions. For longer stays, apartments or Airbnb options in the city centre offer flexibility and comfort.

Tips & Practical Advice

Carry comfortable walking shoes for exploring Old Nice and surrounding hilltop towns. Summer months are ideal for beach visits, but late spring or early autumn provides pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Public transport is efficient, but renting a car allows flexibility for Riviera day trips. Always check local opening hours for markets, museums, and restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q: What is the best time to visit Nice?
Late spring (May) or early autumn (September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Q: Which are the best beaches in Nice?
Plage Mala, Plage Passable, and Ponchettes Public Beach are popular choices.

Q: Is Old Nice worth visiting?
Absolutely, for its markets, historic streets, local cafes, and authentic French Riviera atmosphere.

Q: Can I do day trips from Nice?
Yes, towns like Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Èze, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco are easily reachable.

Q: What is a must-try food experience in Nice?
Socca, pastries at local cafes, and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

Q: How to get around in Nice?
Walking is ideal for the city centre; buses and trams cover longer distances, while car rentals are useful for exploring the Riviera.

Conclusion

Nice combines the glamour of the French Riviera with authentic Mediterranean charm. Its beaches, Old Nice, and cultural attractions provide something for every traveller. Use Nice as a base to explore surrounding Riviera towns and enjoy the relaxed pace of life along the Côte d’Azur. For more insider travel tips, The Peace Destinations website offers guides to hidden gems and authentic experiences along the South of France.