Close your eyes and imagine for a moment the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean. The sound of waves in your ears, a gentle breeze caressing your skin, the scent of olive trees and fresh lavender… This is precisely what Nice is like. Embracing elegance and warmth in the heart of the French Riviera, this city perfectly blends history, culture, nature, and luxury. We can call it the warm Italian side of France.
If you are planning a Nice vacation and have questions like “What to see, where to go, what to eat, where to stay in Nice?”, we have prepared a Nice travel guide for you.
Let’s say “Bon voyage!” in advance.
Where is Nice?
Located in southern France, Nice is the administrative capital of Alpes-Maritimes, which includes the Côte d’Azur between Marseille and Genoa. One of the most beautiful spots on the French Riviera, Nice, is about 30 km from the Italian border. The blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the majesty of the Alps meet here. Whether you walk on the beach or watch the city from the hilltop, Nice will captivate you from every angle.
How to get to Nice?
You can reach Nice from anywhere in Europe by train. For example, the Paris-Nice high-speed train line offers a journey that takes 5 hours and 30 minutes. It can be utilized to witness beautiful landscapes.
How to get from Nice Airport to the city center?
Nice Airport is located about 7 km from the city center. Tram line number 2 takes you directly to the city center. The journey takes about 25 minutes and is one of the most economical options.
You can reach the city center in 15 minutes by taxi. You can also take the number 12 bus from Terminal 1 to the city center, which stops at Promenade des Anglais, Place Masséna (Albert 1er), Old Town (Opéra or Cathédrale), Place Garibaldi, and Palais des Expositions. For up-to-date information, you can check the Nice Airport page.
When to go to Nice?
Nice is a four-season destination. Of course, the ideal times are April-June and September-October. In summer, the city is full of tourists, not to mention the heat! In winter, consider visiting in February (February 5-March 2, 2025) for the famous Nice Carnival. Also important information: If you wear a costume (you need a costume, not just a hat or mask), you can enter the illuminated carnival parades for free in the pedestrian-only zones, subject to availability. A little enthusiasm and a little courage, but the fun is guaranteed.
Where to stay in Nice?
If you want to be close to the city center, you can choose hotels or other accommodation options around Place Masséna. It is both close to everything and a lively area. Vieux Nice, the old town, is within walking distance of Promenade des Anglais, Avenue Jean Medecin, and other main streets, squares, and landmarks. The only problem here is that it can be noisy.
The hotels along the Promenade des Anglais may be suitable if you want to be close to the seaside. You can also stay in Le Carré d’Or, popular for its luxury hotels, streets, and entertainment. However, we should say that these places are pretty expensive.
You can choose the Musiciens neighborhood north of Le Carré d’Or to be among the locals. This neighborhood is named after famous composers. You will find local shops, neighborhood restaurants, and various green areas here. It is far from the tourist stops, but close to the Nice Train Station and some beaches.
Now, some facts: Nice is generally a luxury destination. You might expect to find more affordable options further away from the city center, but unfortunately, this is not possible. Hotel prices outside the city center can also surprise you with their luxury options.
If you’re on a budget, you may prefer to stay in affordable bed and breakfasts or Airbnb apartments in the city center. Finding a cheap place to eat in Nice can be as tricky as finding a calorie-free dessert in a French patisserie, but it’s not impossible!
Places to visit in Nice
Nice is a city to explore. There is a different story in every corner and a different beauty in every view. The places we recommend you to see in Nice are as follows:
Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is Nice’s most iconic landmark and the city’s lifeblood. Running parallel to the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, this 7-kilometer-long Promenade is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Early in the morning, you can see people out for a jog, young people rollerblading, or families riding bicycles. Palm trees, a long stretch of beach… The beauty of the sunrises and sunsets here is like a dream. This is also where part of the Nice Carnival takes place.
As you walk along the Promenade, if you lift your eyes, you will see the Hotel Regina, an old hotel on the hill. This was once the residence of Queen Victoria of England. Even today, the giant royal crown on top of the hotel continues to reflect past splendor.
Colline du Château (Castle Hill)
Rising between the Old Town and the harbor, this hill is also one of the most romantic spots in the city. It’s called “Castle Hill” because there was a castle here in the 1700s, but it now houses the ruins. It’s not usually easy to get to the spectacular views, but it’s easy to get here: you can climb 300 stairs (which can be a challenge!), take the Castle Hill elevator, or take the tourist train.
Cimiez
One of Nice’s cultural riches, Cimiez is a region steeped in art and history, including an ancient Roman city. The Musée Matisse, dedicated to the famous painter Henri Matisse, is a must-see stop for art lovers. In the museum, you can see Matisse’s most important works, sketches, and personal belongings. You can also discover the enchanting Cimiez Abbey Gardens, full of olive groves, vineyards, climbing roses, and exotic trees.
Avenue Jean Medecin
Shopping lovers, come here! Avenue Jean Médecin, one of the main streets of Nice, is home to both local boutiques and international brands. With its chic cafes and restaurants, this street reflects the modern and stylish face of Nice. Here, you can shop and enjoy a French coffee in a café while watching the street.
Cours Saleya Markets
One of the best spots to capture the spirit of Nice is Cours Saleya. The markets here are a reflection of the city’s local flavor. In the morning, you can enjoy the colors of flowers and fresh produce, and in the evening, you can enjoy regional delicacies at the restaurants in the area. You can find souvenirs ranging from handmade soaps to lavender sachets.
Musée Masséna
If you want to learn more about Nice’s history, head to the Musée Masséna. Its architecture, decoration, and garden are incredible. This museum, where you can discover the city’s Belle Époque period, also offers a distinct beauty with its charming gardens.
Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain
A favorite of modern art enthusiasts, MAMAC is one of the most important addresses of Nice’s contemporary art scene. Here, you can see the works of modern art giants such as Yves Klein and Niki de Saint Phalle and encounter exhibitions that will challenge your imagination. And the view is spectacular.
Castle Hill
If you want to simultaneously see the old harbor and the city center, Castle Hill offers a unique panoramic view. It’s not just a vantage point; it’s also an excellent option for those who want to have a picnic and enjoy a natural stopover. If you are looking for a park and garden when you visit Nice, you can see Castle Hill or Parc Forestier du Mont-Boron, where you can spend time alone with nature.
What to Eat and Drink in Nice?
Nice is a place that will never make you unhappy regarding food and drink. Especially if you love Mediterranean cuisine, you can consider this place a paradise. The region has olives and olive oil; you can mentally note that. Salade Niçoise is the unique flavor of this place. It is a salad with tomatoes, boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and tuna. Their socca, a crepe made of chickpea flour, is also a street delicacy from their kitchen. The pissaladière pizza made with onions, olives, and anchovies is a specialty of Nice. We recommend you try these three flavors while you are here.
Where to go swimming in Nice?
There are many private and luxury beaches in Nice. It is not difficult to find them, but we would like to talk about the public beaches. Beau Rivage Public Beach is a very popular place. Therefore, it can be very crowded. Lenval Beach, on the other hand, offers basic facilities such as toilets, showers, and windsurfing. Carras Beach is also the only beach in Nice where visitors can bring pets. If you are traveling with your pawed friend, consider this beach.
Nice Travel Tips
If you plan to visit several museums in Nice, you can buy a 4-day museum ticket. If you want to see multiple museums for the price of a single museum ticket, we recommend you to check the Billetterie | Musées de Nice website.
When shopping in the Old Town, please think twice before bargaining because the French are very strict about it.
You can hop on the train and reach the ski resorts quickly. If you dream of skiing in the Alps, you can plan a trip to Nice in winter and then head to the Alps.
Nice is beautiful not only in itself but also in its surroundings. While you are here, be sure to visit the Mediterranean coast of Southern France. We recommend visiting Éze, Monaco, Monte Carlo, and St Tropez.
There are plenty of flower and food markets here. If you want to mingle with the locals, feel like you are from the South of France, and eat something delicious, you should consider these markets.
