Discover Nice | A Visitor's Introduction to Nice

Nice's Special Features and Attractions

Promenade des Anglais: The Promenade des Anglais is perhaps Nice’s most famous landmark. Stretching along the Mediterranean coast, this iconic boulevard offers breathtaking sea views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll, cycling, or rollerblading. Lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, and beach clubs, the promenade epitomises the glamour of the French Riviera.

Vieux Nice (Old Town): Vieux Nice is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with vibrant markets, charming boutiques, and traditional restaurants. The Cours Saleya market is a highlight, offering fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties. The Old Town’s colourful buildings and lively atmosphere provide a glimpse into the city’s past and its vibrant present.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Castle Hill offers some of the best views in Nice. Once the site of a medieval fortress, it is now a beautiful park with stunning panoramas of the city, the harbour, and the Baie des Anges. The hill is accessible by a lift or a scenic climb, and the park features lush greenery, waterfalls, and historical ruins.

Musée Matisse: The Musée Matisse, located in the Cimiez neighborhood, is dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, who spent much of his later life in Nice. The museum houses an extensive collection of his paintings, sculptures, and personal artifacts, providing insight into the artist’s life and creative process. The surrounding gardens and Roman ruins add to the museum’s appeal.

Promenade du Paillon: This beautiful urban park stretches from the Promenade des Anglais to the National Theatre. The Promenade du Paillon is a lush green space featuring fountains, playgrounds, and public art installations, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a family outing. Its modern design and central location have made it a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Nice's Dining and Nightlife

Nice’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of French and Mediterranean influences. La Petite Maison is a renowned restaurant offering delicious Niçoise cuisine in an elegant setting. For seafood lovers, Le Café de Turin in Place Garibaldi is famous for its fresh oysters and seafood platters.

For a more casual dining experience, Fenocchio in Vieux Nice is a must-visit for its wide variety of homemade ice creams and sorbets. Cours Saleya is also lined with cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes such as Socca (a chickpea pancake) and Pissaladière (a caramelized onion tart).

Nice’s nightlife offers a range of options, from sophisticated cocktail bars to lively nightclubs. Le Bar du Negresco in the famous Hotel Negresco provides a glamorous setting for an evening drink, while Wayne’s Bar is known for its live music and vibrant atmosphere.

Shopping in Nice

Nice is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury boutiques to local markets. Avenue Jean Médecin is the main shopping street, home to department stores like Galeries Lafayette and a variety of international brands. Rue Paradis and Avenue de Verdun feature high-end designer stores such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton.

For unique finds, explore the antique shops and art galleries in Vieux Nice. The Cours Saleya market is perfect for picking up local produce, flowers, and artisan goods, while the Marché aux Puces (flea market) in the port area offers vintage treasures and collectables.

Practical Tips

Transport: Nice is well-connected by public transport, including trams, buses, and trains. The city’s tram system is efficient for getting around the centre, and Nice Côte d'Azur Airport offers flights to many international destinations. The train station provides easy access to other Riviera destinations like Cannes and Monaco.
Accommodation: Nice offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. The Hotel Negresco is an iconic five-star hotel known for its opulent decor and prime location on the Promenade des Anglais. For a boutique experience, consider Hotel La Pérouse, which offers stunning views and personalised service.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nice is during the spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are smaller. Summer is also a popular time, especially for beachgoers, but it can be quite busy.