The Best Things to Do in Nice

Nice, the jewel of the Côte d’Azur, offers far more than just stunning Mediterranean views and pebbled beaches. As the gateway to the French Riviera, this vibrant city blends Italian-influenced architecture, Provençal cuisine, and a distinctly French joie de vivre that captivates visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to discover more of its charms, our guide reveals the authentic experiences that make Nice truly special.

From strolling along the iconic Promenade des Anglais to exploring hidden corners of the colorful Old Town, we’ve curated this guide with insights from local experts to help you experience Nice beyond the typical tourist path. Discover why the French consider this sun-drenched city one of their most treasured destinations, and how to enjoy it with the sophisticated appreciation it deserves.

No visit to Nice is complete without experiencing the legendary Promenade des Anglais. This 7-kilometer palm-lined boulevard follows the gentle curve of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels), serving as the beating heart of the city since the 19th century. Built by English aristocrats who wintered in Nice (hence its name), “Le Prom” as locals call it, has become the quintessential symbol of the French Riviera.

The most popular stretch runs between Castle Hill and the luxurious Hotel Negresco. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere – sit on one of the iconic blue chairs to watch the world go by, observe locals rollerblading and jogging, or simply admire the endless blue horizon where sea meets sky. The promenade is particularly magical during the golden hour, when the setting sun bathes everything in a warm glow.

For a truly local experience, join the Niçois for an evening passeggiata (leisurely walk) along the promenade. This Italian-influenced tradition reflects Nice’s historical connections to Italy and offers a perfect opportunity to see local life in action.

The heart and soul of Nice lies in its enchanting Old Town (Vieux Nice), where narrow winding streets reveal the city’s Italian heritage. This labyrinth of ochre-colored buildings, baroque churches, and lively squares feels more like an Italian village than a French city – a reminder that Nice only became part of France in 1860.

Wander through the pedestrianized streets to discover artisanal shops selling Provençal products, from lavender soaps to olive oils. The Old Town is also home to some of Nice’s most important historical buildings, including the baroque Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate on Place Rossetti and the ornate Chapelle de la Miséricorde on Place Pierre-Gautier.

As you explore, notice the street signs in both French and Niçard (the local dialect) – a testament to the region’s unique cultural identity that blends French and Italian influences. This authentic neighborhood is where locals still live and work, making it the perfect place to experience the true spirit of Nice.

The heart of daily life in Nice beats at the Cours Saleya Market, a colorful open-air marketplace that has been the commercial center of the Old Town for centuries. This bustling strip, framed by pastel-colored buildings and outdoor cafés, transforms throughout the day to serve different purposes.

In the morning, the market comes alive with the Marché aux Fleurs (flower market) Tuesday through Sunday, alongside daily fruit and vegetable vendors selling local produce. The air fills with the scent of fresh flowers, herbs, and ripe fruits, while vendors call out their offerings in a melodic mix of French and the local Niçois dialect.

This is where locals shop for ingredients, making it the perfect place to assemble a picnic of regional specialties. Look for socca (chickpea pancake), pissaladière (onion tart), and pan bagnat (a sandwich filled with Niçoise salad ingredients) – all authentic street foods that represent the city’s culinary heritage.

On Mondays, the space transforms into an antique market where collectors hunt for treasures among vintage items, artwork, and curiosities. In the evenings, the market stalls give way to restaurant terraces, creating a lively dining atmosphere under the stars.

For the most breathtaking panorama of Nice, make your way to Castle Hill (Colline du Château), the natural elevation that separates the Old Town from the port. Despite its name, you won’t find a castle here today – the medieval fortress that once crowned the hill was demolished by Louis XIV in 1706. What remains is a beautiful park offering unrivaled views of the city, the Bay of Angels, and the Alps in the distance.

The climb to the top involves several hundred steps, but your effort will be rewarded with spectacular vistas. If you prefer to save your energy, you can take the free elevator (ascenseur) located near the eastern end of the Promenade des Anglais. Once at the top, explore the shaded pathways, archaeological remains, and the artificial waterfall created in the 19th century.

Castle Hill is also home to a children’s playground and several perfect picnic spots. Visit around noon to witness a curious Nice tradition – every day at exactly 12pm, a cannon (actually now a firework) is fired from the hill. This tradition dates back to 1861 when a Scottish resident wanted to remind his wife to return home for lunch!

Nice’s coastline stretches for nearly 7 kilometers along the Mediterranean, offering numerous beaches with crystal-clear azure waters. Unlike many sandy beaches elsewhere in France, Nice’s shores are famously covered with smooth, rounded pebbles called galets. While this might seem less comfortable initially, these stones have become an iconic part of the Nice experience and offer certain advantages – no sand in your belongings and remarkably clear water.

The beaches are divided between public areas (free access) and private beach clubs. The public beaches can get crowded during summer months but offer an authentic experience where you’ll see locals and visitors alike enjoying the Mediterranean sun. Popular public beaches include Plage Publique de Beau Rivage and Plage des Ponchettes near the Old Town.

For a more comfortable experience, consider spending a day at one of the private beach clubs where you can rent a lounge chair with an umbrella, access changing facilities, and enjoy food and drink service directly to your spot. Notable beach clubs include Ruhl Plage (one of the oldest, operating since 1920), Blue Beach, and Castel Plage.

Nice has long been a haven for artists drawn by its exceptional light and Mediterranean atmosphere. This artistic heritage has resulted in an impressive collection of museums that showcase works by some of the most influential artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, many of whom lived and worked in the city.

Place Masséna is Nice’s main square and serves as the vibrant heart of the city where the old and new towns meet. With its striking red Italian-inspired buildings, black and white checkered pavement, and central fountain, this pedestrianized plaza creates an unforgettable visual impression that perfectly captures Nice’s unique cultural blend.

The square is dominated by the Fontaine du Soleil (Fountain of the Sun), featuring a 7-meter marble statue of Apollo. This fountain has its own colorful history – when unveiled in 1956, the statue’s anatomical details caused such scandal that the sculptor was forced to modify his work!

At night, the square takes on a magical quality when illuminated by the seven resin statues by Jaume Plensa that represent the seven continents. These figures change colors throughout the evening, creating a contemplative light show above the bustling activity below.

Place Masséna hosts many of Nice’s major events and celebrations, including the annual Carnival parade in February, summer concerts, and Christmas markets in winter. With its central location connecting the Promenade des Anglais, Avenue Jean Médecin (the main shopping street), and the Promenade du Paillon (a green corridor through the city), it’s a natural gathering place and orientation point for both visitors and locals.

The hillside district of Cimiez offers a fascinating glimpse into Nice’s layered history, from ancient Roman times through the Belle Époque to the present day. This elegant residential neighborhood, located about 2 kilometers north of the city center, was once the site of the Roman city of Cemenelum and later became the preferred winter residence for European aristocracy.

Begin your exploration at the Roman Amphitheater and Archaeological Museum, where you can walk among ruins dating back to the 1st century and view artifacts from daily life in ancient Cemenelum. The annual Nice Jazz Festival takes place among these ruins each July, creating a magical juxtaposition of ancient history and contemporary culture.

Next, visit the Franciscan Monastery and Museum, dating back to 1546. The monastery is surrounded by magnificent gardens featuring centuries-old olive trees and a renowned rose garden. The small museum inside houses religious art, including 15th-century masterpieces by the local artist Ludovic Bréa. The monastery’s cemetery is the final resting place of Henri Matisse and Raoul Dufy.

No visit to Cimiez would be complete without seeing the imposing Regina Building, a Belle Époque masterpiece built in 1897 as a luxury hotel for Queen Victoria and other aristocratic visitors. This magnificent structure, now converted into private apartments, was once home to Henri Matisse, who lived and worked here from 1938 until his death in 1954.

The Port of Nice (Port Lympia) offers a different perspective on the city, away from the glamour of the Promenade des Anglais. This working harbor, with its mix of fishing boats, pleasure yachts, and ferries, provides a glimpse into the maritime life that has sustained Nice for centuries.

Stroll along the Quai des Deux Emmanuel and Quai Lunel to admire the boats and the colorful Italianate buildings that line the harbor. The port area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, becoming one of Nice’s trendiest neighborhoods with excellent restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

This is an excellent place to sample fresh seafood at traditional restaurants like La Réserve or enjoy a drink at one of the waterfront cafés while watching the boats come and go. The port is also the departure point for ferries to Corsica, Sardinia, and various coastal excursions.

From the port, you can easily access the nearby district known as “Le Petit Marais” around Place Garibaldi and Rue Bonaparte – Nice’s vibrant LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood with numerous bars, restaurants, and boutiques. This area offers a more contemporary and bohemian atmosphere compared to the Old Town.

Nice’s unique culinary tradition reflects its geographical position between Provence, Italy, and the Mediterranean Sea. The city’s cuisine, known as cuisine niçoise, features fresh vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and seafood, creating dishes that are both rustic and sophisticated.

Begin your culinary exploration with these essential Niçoise specialties:

For the most authentic experience, look for restaurants displaying the “Cuisine Nissarde” label, which certifies establishments committed to preparing traditional recipes using local ingredients. This initiative by the city helps preserve culinary heritage and guide visitors to genuine local cuisine.

Nice’s strategic location makes it the perfect base for exploring the stunning French Riviera. Within an hour’s journey, you can visit glamorous resort towns, medieval villages perched on hillsides, and some of the world’s most famous coastal landscapes.

One of Nice’s most unexpected architectural treasures is the Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral (Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas). Built in the early 20th century, it stands as the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe and a testament to the significant Russian presence in Nice during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Commissioned by Tsar Nicholas II in memory of his predecessor Alexander II (who died in Nice in 1865), the cathedral was completed in 1912. Its distinctive design features six onion domes, ornate decorations, and vibrant colors that create a striking contrast with the surrounding Mediterranean architecture.

The interior is equally impressive, with elaborate iconostasis, beautiful frescoes, and intricate woodwork. The cathedral continues to function as an active place of worship for the local Russian Orthodox community, so visitors should be respectful and dress appropriately (women may be asked to cover their heads and shoulders).

Located on Avenue Nicolas II in a residential area away from the main tourist center, the cathedral offers a peaceful retreat and a fascinating glimpse into Nice’s cosmopolitan history. The small museum in the crypt contains historical artifacts and information about the Russian aristocracy’s connection to the French Riviera.

The Promenade du Paillon (also called Coulée Verte or Green Corridor) is a 12-hectare urban park that runs through the heart of Nice, built over the now-covered Paillon River. Opened in 2013 after extensive urban renewal, this green oasis provides a refreshing contrast to the city’s stone and concrete.

The centerpiece of the promenade is the spectacular Miroir d’Eau (Mirror of Water), a vast shallow pool with 128 water jets that create changing patterns and mist effects. Children love to run through the jets on hot days, while adults appreciate the cooling effect and artistic water choreography.

Throughout the park, you’ll find carefully landscaped gardens featuring Mediterranean and exotic plants, including palm trees, olive trees, and pine groves. The designers incorporated over 1,600 trees and 6,000 shrubs, creating distinct themed areas that represent different ecosystems.

The promenade also features several playgrounds with imaginative structures shaped like sea creatures and marine elements, reflecting Nice’s connection to the Mediterranean. These include a whale skeleton, octopus, and sea urchin sculptures that double as climbing frames.

Located between Place Masséna and the National Theatre, the Promenade du Paillon serves as a green link between the old and new parts of the city. It’s the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing, enjoy a picnic lunch, or simply watch local life unfold in this beloved community space.

The Hotel Negresco stands as an iconic symbol of Nice’s Belle Époque grandeur and has been the crown jewel of the Promenade des Anglais since its opening in 1913. Even if you’re not staying at this five-star luxury hotel, it’s worth visiting to admire its distinctive architecture and remarkable art collection.

The hotel’s distinctive pink dome and white façade make it instantly recognizable along the seafront. Step inside the lobby to be dazzled by the magnificent glass dome designed by Gustave Eiffel and the impressive chandelier that was originally created for the Russian Tsar Nicholas II.

What makes the Negresco truly special is its extraordinary art collection, spanning five centuries of French history. The hotel functions as a museum of sorts, with each floor dedicated to a different period of French art and design. The collection includes works by Salvador Dalí, sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle, and priceless antique furniture.

Even if you’re not a guest, you can experience the Negresco’s elegance by visiting its legendary bar, Le Relais, for a cocktail or champagne. For a special treat, consider dining at Le Chantecler, the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, or enjoying afternoon tea in the sumptuous surroundings.

Nice is an exceptionally bicycle-friendly city, with over 125 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes making it easy and pleasant to explore on two wheels. Cycling allows you to cover more ground than walking while still enjoying the open air and freedom to stop whenever something catches your interest.

The city’s bike-sharing system, Vélo Bleu, makes it easy for visitors to rent bicycles for short trips around the city. With 175 stations throughout Nice and the surrounding area, you’re never far from a pickup or drop-off point. The system is affordable, with a 1-day pass costing just €1.50, plus usage fees (the first 30 minutes of each ride are free).

One of the most enjoyable cycling routes is along the Promenade des Anglais, which features a dedicated two-way bike lane separated from both pedestrian and car traffic. This flat, scenic path offers stunning sea views and cooling breezes as you pedal along the coastline.

For a more challenging ride with rewarding views, cycle up to Mont Boron or along the coastal road to Villefranche-sur-Mer. The Promenade du Paillon also offers a pleasant, car-free cycling experience through the heart of the city.

For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Mont Boron offers a refreshing escape from the urban environment while remaining within the city limits. This forested hill rising 190 meters above sea level provides some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Nice, the Bay of Angels, and the surrounding coastline.

The 57-hectare park features well-maintained hiking trails that wind through a Mediterranean forest of pine, carob, and olive trees. The main path is a 5-kilometer loop that takes about 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, with several viewpoints and resting areas along the way.

A highlight of Mont Boron is the 16th-century Fort du Mont Alban, a military fortress built during the reign of Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy. The fort itself is only open to visitors on certain days, but the exterior and surrounding area offer excellent photo opportunities and historical interest.

The park is also equipped with fitness stations, picnic areas, and a pétanque court where you might see locals engaged in this traditional French game. The shaded paths make this an ideal activity even on warmer days, offering a cool retreat with the reward of stunning vistas.

Few visitors realize that Nice has its own wine appellation, Bellet, one of the oldest and smallest in France. These hillside vineyards, located just 20 minutes from the city center, produce distinctive wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region, combining Mediterranean and Alpine influences.

The Bellet appellation covers just 50 hectares with only about a dozen producers, making these wines rare treasures that are seldom found outside the region. The vineyards cultivate several unique grape varieties, including Braquet and Folle Noire, which are grown almost nowhere else in the world.

Several wineries offer tours and tastings, providing an opportunity to learn about the region’s 2,000-year winemaking history dating back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Château de Bellet, Domaine de Toasc, and Clos Saint-Vincent are among the most renowned producers that welcome visitors by appointment.

Bellet produces red, white, and rosé wines, each with distinctive characteristics. The whites, often made from the local Rolle grape (also known as Vermentino), are aromatic with notes of citrus and white flowers. The reds, typically blends featuring Folle Noire, offer complexity with spicy and fruity notes. The rosés, often made from the Braquet grape, are elegant and refined – perfect companions to Niçoise cuisine.

If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss the Nice Carnival (Carnaval de Nice), one of the world’s major carnival events and the most important winter festival on the French Riviera. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this vibrant celebration transforms the city into a whirlwind of color, music, and festivity for over two weeks.

The carnival centers around a different theme each year, with massive papier-mâché figures, elaborate floats, and costumed performers parading through the city. The main events take place in Place Masséna and along the Promenade des Anglais, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators from around the world.

Key carnival events include:

The carnival atmosphere extends throughout the city, with street performances, music, regional food stalls, and special events in restaurants and venues. While some parade viewing areas require tickets, there are also free standing areas where you can enjoy the spectacle without charge.

Art enthusiasts looking beyond the well-known museums should visit Villa Arson, a unique cultural complex that combines a national art school, contemporary art center, specialized library, and beautiful gardens in a striking modernist building.

Located on a hillside in the north of Nice, Villa Arson occupies a former 18th-century estate that was completely transformed in the 1970s into an avant-garde architectural complex. The building itself is a remarkable work of concrete brutalism softened by Mediterranean vegetation growing on its terraces and rooftops.

The National Contemporary Art Center within Villa Arson hosts temporary exhibitions featuring cutting-edge work by emerging and established artists. Unlike traditional museums, the focus here is on experimental, innovative, and sometimes challenging contemporary art practices.

The terraced gardens offer a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of Nice and feature permanent sculptural installations integrated into the landscape. These outdoor spaces are designed as a continuation of the exhibition areas, blurring the boundaries between architecture, art, and nature.

Villa Arson regularly hosts artist talks, performances, and workshops that are open to the public, providing insight into contemporary creative processes and fostering dialogue between artists and visitors.

Beyond the famous Cours Saleya, Nice offers a variety of markets that provide insight into local life and culture. These markets are perfect for finding authentic souvenirs, sampling regional products, or simply observing daily Niçois routines.

Shopping at these markets offers more than just goods – it’s an opportunity to engage with local culture, practice French, and discover products that reflect the region’s rich culinary and artistic traditions. Look for Provençal fabrics, olive wood products, locally made soaps, and food specialties like olive oils, tapenades, and candied fruits to bring home a taste of Nice.

Nice’s prime location on the Mediterranean offers numerous opportunities to enjoy the sea beyond simply lounging on the beach. From gentle paddling to high-speed thrills, there’s a water activity to suit every preference and skill level.

Equipment rental and guided experiences are available from several operators along the Promenade des Anglais and at the port. Many beach clubs also offer water sports equipment for rent. For diving and snorkeling, local dive centers provide guided excursions suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to certified divers.

When the sun sets, Nice transforms from a sun-soaked beach destination to a lively nightlife hub with options ranging from sophisticated wine bars to energetic dance clubs. The city’s diverse evening entertainment reflects its cosmopolitan character and caters to all tastes and moods.

Nice also has several cultural venues that offer evening entertainment, including the Nice Opera House, which presents a program of opera, ballet, and classical music in a stunning 19th-century building. For film enthusiasts, the Cinema Rialto specializes in independent and foreign films, often in their original language.

The casino scene is another nightlife option, with Casino Ruhl on the Promenade des Anglais offering gaming tables, slot machines, and entertainment shows in an elegant setting. Remember that proper attire is required, and you’ll need to present identification for entry.

Nice captivates visitors with its unique blend of French sophistication and Mediterranean warmth, offering experiences that appeal to every type of traveler. From the iconic blue chairs along the Promenade des Anglais to the hidden corners of the Old Town, from world-class museums to vibrant markets, the city reveals new charms with each visit.

What makes Nice truly special is how it balances its status as an international destination with an authentic local character that remains deeply rooted in its unique history and culture. Whether you’re savoring socca at a street-side stall, admiring the view from Castle Hill, or simply watching the world go by from a café terrace, you’ll find yourself embraced by the distinctive rhythm and spirit of this Mediterranean gem.

As you plan your visit to the French Riviera, allow yourself time to experience Nice beyond the highlights – to wander without purpose, to discover your own favorite spots, and to embrace the art of living that the French call joie de vivre. From dawn when the first market vendors set up their stalls to dusk when the city glows in the golden hour light, Nice offers moments of beauty and pleasure that will remain with you long after your journey ends.