Welcome to Nice, a city along France's southeast coast, famous for its blue waters, fancy resorts, and a favorite spot for celebrities. This place is packed with amazing things to do, from chilling on beautiful beaches, to exploring art museums.
In this article, you will know about the best spots in Nice - the coolest restaurants, the comfiest hotels, and the must-see places that will make your trip epic. Whether you're into food or cool sights, we've got the insider tips to make your holiday memorable.
Places to Go:
The Promenade des Anglais
A must-visit spot in Nice, known worldwide, is the perfect place to relax, exercise, or simply enjoy a break with stunning views of the sea. This area extends for seven kilometers along the coast and its beaches. Whether you are into rollerblading, biking, walking, or running, Promenade des Anglais is the perfect place to hang out, soak in the sea as far as the eye can see, and catch sunrises. Plus, there are plenty of interesting art pieces, shaded areas, and those famous blue chairs that are a symbol of Nice. It's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors who want to enjoy the outdoors and soak in the city's atmosphere.
The Port of Nice
This area goes from the famous Promenade des Anglais and really feels like part of the city. It mixes some old-school charm with a fun vibe. You are right in the middle of everything, and it’s easy to get around with public transport and the tramway. The harbor is always busy with boats coming and going, which makes it even more exciting! You can take a walk along the quay and enjoy incredible views of the city's heritage. There is also shopping to do and tons of restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat!
You can also go on sea excursions and rent boats from here. If you are looking to explore the natural and architectural beauty of the Côte d'Azur, the Port of Nice is your gateway. If you love being on the water, you can even rent a boat right from the Port of Nice, with or without a skipper.
Castle Hill Park
A big green park on top of a hill. A long time ago, there was a castle there, but it was destroyed in 1706. Later, the city decided to turn the hill into a park. They added exotic plants, romantic paths, and even a big waterfall with a fake cave. Now, only a few ruins of the castle are left, but the park offers great views over the Bay of Angels. It's a fun place for everyone, with a big playground for kids, snack bars, and spots to look at the beautiful views of the Promenade des Anglais and the sea. People like to meet there for picnics, sports, or just a relaxing walk. There are telescopes to check out the views up close, and a big artificial waterfall that everyone loves. To get there, you can take an elevator from the old town. If you are feeling brave, you can climb up lots of steps, taking breaks to enjoy the views as you go up.
Mont Boron Park
A huge 57-hectare forested park on a hill that sits between Nice and Villefranche. It's a favorite spot for both serious athletes and casual walkers thanks to its unique plants and amazing views of the French Riviera.
This park is a great place to enjoy nature, with paths that wind through a real Mediterranean forest. It's believed that prehistoric hunters used this spot around 400,000 years ago. Today, people come here to hike,, have picnics with their families, and check out the unique plants and amazing views. There are 11 kilometers of walking trails surrounded by Aleppo pines, holm oaks, wild olive trees, and other local plants. Some of these plants are rare and protected.
Mont Boron hill is also known for its beautiful villas, including one owned by Elton John. The hill itself offers a new perspective on Nice's Old Port and the entire area, including Villefranche-sur-Mer and the Cap-Ferrat peninsula. The park and the historic, well-preserved Fort du Mont Alban at its top are must-see attractions, providing great views and a peaceful forest walk.
What Makes Nice's Parks a Must-Visit in the French Riviera?
Old Town Nice
It's a great area with lots of markets, narrow streets, and cafes where everyone likes to gather. It feels like a big maze of softly colored buildings, old churches, and small paths filled with shops, restaurants, and places to grab a coffee. You can easily spend a whole day exploring these charming streets, taking a break from the busy city, or sitting at a cafe to watch local life. Many people still live here, hanging laundry between balconies and chatting from their windows.
The Old Town is squeezed between Castle Hill and the city center, not far from the beach and a walkway by the sea called Quai des États-Unis. At Place Rossetti, you have to try ice cream from Fenocchio, the most famous ice cream spot in town and see the Sainte Réparate Cathedral, known for its beautiful baroque facade and built in 1699. Inside, you can see the relics of Sainte Réparate.
The Palais Lascaris is this grand old building that is now a museum you can visit, except it's closed on Tuesdays.
The best way to see Old Town is on foot because the streets are really narrow and mostly for walking only. Cars have a tough time getting around. Although public buses and trams can drop you close by, they can't take you right inside. Old Town might be quick to cross, but you should really spend at least half a day there to catch all its awesome vibes.
Cours Saleya
Right in the middle of Old Nice and is super popular for its flower market and the sunny spots at the restaurants around it. It's been a cool place to hang out since the 1800s, even hosting Nice's Carnival parades once upon a time. Now, it's always busy, known for selling flowers, fruits, veggies, local crafts, and tasty treats. It's so colorful and fun that it's considered one of the top markets in France.
On Mondays, you can find antiques instead. In the summer, there's a night market with art and crafts that's perfect for vacation fun. Besides shopping, you can enjoy eating or chilling on the big, sunny terraces. For the best view of everything, go up the Ponchettes stairs for a look at all the action from above.
The Fruit and Vegetable Market in Libération
Is a regular event that's super popular in Nice. It's open every Tuesday through Sunday from 6 AM to 12:30 PM. This market is a big deal for the locals because you can find a huge selection of quality products under the sunny sky.
There, you can buy fruits, vegetables, flowers, fish, and even some special items from local producers like honey and cheese. It's a great place to go if you are in the area.
HOTEL & ROOFTOP:
Le Meridien
A 4-star hotel located on the "Promenade des Anglais," It's just a 9-minute walk from Avenue Jean Médecin. It's perfect for travelers interested in culture. The hotel features a jacuzzi, an outdoor pool, and a heated pool. Guests can enjoy breakfast at the hotel's restaurant and try Chinese food at the Tô restaurant nearby.
1 Prom. des Anglais, 06046 Nice
Anantara Plaza hotel
The hotel is in an old building from 1848 that looks really grand from the outside. It was completely restored to look brand new, mixing old charm with new style. It is super close to spots like Place Massena and the famous beach walk.
12 Av. de Verdun, 06000 Nice
The Hôtel Amour
Close to the Promenade des Anglais, it is a peaceful spot in the Orangers area. The rooms, decorated in pink, blue, or cream colors, are perfect for resting and relaxing. Whether you are looking for a vacation spot, a weekend getaway, or a family trip, this hotel could be your go-to. You can chill with spa treatments, enjoy the view at the rooftop bar, work out in the fancy gym, or relax at the beach with a drink.
47 Prom. des Anglais, 06000 Nice
Hôtel La Pérouse
Hidden on the hilltop of Castle Hill, a unique spot is waiting for you. Behind its sunny facade, where colors dance with the light, the 4-star seaside charm hotel in Nice offers an amazing visual experience.
Being close to the city's best spots like the Promenade des Anglais, Old Nice, Castle Hill, and Place Masséna is a big plus. It means you can take a break from everything for a weekend or longer, soaking in the Provencal lifestyle and enjoying your own version of the Dolce Vita.
11 Quai Rauba Capeu, 06300 Nice
Palais de la Méditerranée
This iconic 5-star luxury hotel, sits on the legendary Promenade des Anglais, close to Nice airport. It's a historic hotel on the French Riviera. You can enjoy an unforgettable stay with views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city center.
13 Prom. des Anglais, 06000 Nice
Food:
Chez Marie-Thé
Offers homemade-style local dishes and Niçoise specialties to go. Enjoy treats like socca, pissaladière, stuffed vegetables (petits farcis), daube (beef stew), and cannellonis.
Le Plongeoir
It's located right in the bay of Nice, in a historic building. There’s a terrace with a stunning view of the old port. Relax and enjoy Mediterranean dishes while looking at the water. The chef serves classic Mediterranean food made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
L'Escalinada
Escape diners serve homemade Mediterranean dishes in classic Niçoise recipes that have been passed down for generations. It's a great spot for locals and tourists to try traditional Nissart cuisine. Open daily, except Wednesday, this cozy restaurant offers a warm welcome with a Provençal touch.
Kiosque Tintin
Must-try dishes include their twist on the classic "pan bagnat" and their sweet Swiss chard pie. Their sandwiches are also delicious and affordable.
Lu Fran Calin
Offering a blend of Niçoise and Italian cuisine, the restaurant features generous, flavor-packed dishes in the heart of old Nice. With the "Cuisine Nissarde" label, they focus on authentic recipes, quality ingredients, and excellent service. It's a fantastic place to experience local flavors!
Le Café de Turin
A seafood restaurant in Nice, has been offering top-quality seafood for over 100 years. In a classic brasserie atmosphere, you can enjoy a wide range of seafood dishes. You can also book private rooms in the restaurant. Located on one of the city's most beautiful squares, Place Garibaldi, right in the heart of the port district, this place is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Lou Pantail
Meaning "The Dream" in Nissart (the Nice dialect), is a reality at this warm, family-run spot. Here, you can enjoy Niçoise and Italian specialties, as well as wood-fired pizzas, both at the restaurant and at home.
Carmela
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at this restaurant with a stylish twist. The decor feels like a cozy 1950s Florentine "Palazzo," with a warm and welcoming team.
The menu features elegantly reimagined traditional dishes, perfect for sharing, like Vitello Tonnato, Artichauts alla Giudia with Aioli Confit, and Arancini with Piquillos cream.
There are also delicious meat and fish options, plus desserts, including a must-try milk flower ice cream with toppings !
Comme un Dimanche
Is a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch, open everyday except, on Monday and Tuesday. Everything on the menu, from the dishes to the pastries, is homemade using fresh ingredients.
Bercolino
A new sandwich shop located in the heart of Old Nice, is already making waves with its best-selling sandwich, the Beef Pastrami. This new place is quickly becoming a favorite among locals thanks to its unique take on classic sandwich offerings.
This guide to Nice offers stunning hotels, amazing sights, and great restaurants, ensuring an unforgettable experience that feels like a beautiful dream. To make the most of your trip to the south of France, make sure to book a private guided tour with us.
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