NICE

Capital of the French Riviera

What to do and see in Nice? The capital of the French Riviera is full of activities, places and shops to visit. To occupy your weekend, for a long or short stay, here are our recommendations so you don't miss anything. You will know everything about the places to visit, the events, the museums, the markets, the activities, the transport and the shopkeepers of the region.

What are the must-see places in Nice?

The English Promenade

The most famous and mythical place in Nice is of course the Promenade des Anglais.
Stroll along the 7km of coastline and admire the clear view of the Mediterranean Sea.
This place always animated has a vast sidewalk to facilitate your stroll. Ideal to enjoy the beautiful weather of the French Riviera. Sunbathe, have a picnic, listen to the sound of the waves or swim in the pebble beaches. Choose from a wide selection of private and public beaches. When swimming, beware of jellyfish.

The castle hill

From a height of 90 m, admire Nice from one of the most beautiful spots in the city, the hill of the castle. The view is panoramic over the promenade, the old town and the centre. While on the other side you have a view of the port, its pointus and its cruise ships.

Go to the Castle Hill :

• On foot, a 500-step staircase for sportsmen
• Lift at the foot of the old Nice
• With the electric "Petit train de Nice", the station is located at the Quai des Etats-Unis fac au théâtre de Verdure
• By car, take the Eberlé or Montfort road on the port side. 

To be seen in this park:

• Archaeological remains
• Cascade de la Colline
• Bellanda Tower

The hill of the castle is the ideal place for a picnic, with a large park of 19 hectares. A children's playground and a snack bar are available. 

On the hill of the castle events are organized throughout the year such as the castle festival, the nocturnesthe the canon shot at noon .... 

Old Nice, its Sainte Réparate cathedral and its Cours Saleya

You will be transported by the charm of the old town with its many colourful alleys and small shops and restaurants. It is the ideal place to take a break and enjoy the surroundings. It is also an opportunity to taste the socca or to enjoy an ice cream on the famous Rossetti square.

You will also find the Sainte Réparate cathedral, in baroque style, which is one of the major monuments of the city of Nice. During your walk, you will find the Cours Saleya, a pedestrian street very lively day and night. Well known for its flower and produce market, you will be attracted by all the local products and the resplendent colours. In the evening, it is very pleasant to come and have a drink or taste the local specialities such as pissaladière, socca or salade niçoise.

The Tour Saint-François offers another of the best views of the city of Nice. Climb to the top of the tower from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 5pm. Tickets can be purchased on site. Visit every 30 minutes in groups of 10. 

Port Lympia, boat rental and excursions

Built in 1748, it is one of the 5 ports on the Côte d'Azur. Take a walk around the harbour and admire its architecture and the various buildings and boats that surround it. Pass by the impressive sculpture of the war memorial. Then have a drink in the many terraces of the bars and restaurants while contemplating the evolution of the sun on the port.

 

 

Discover the Mediterranean coastline by renting a boat with or without a skipper with Rent my boat. You will find everything you need on the Quai Lunel (west side of the port). You can also take a guided coastal walk with the Cie Trans côte d'azur. For those who wish to explore the sea bed, the Poseidon diving club offers more than 10 dives in the bay of Villefranche. 

On the other side of the Port of Nice, the Port Lympia Gallery, a former prison of the city of Nice, offers exhibitions. Discover the article of the virtual exhibition of the artist Pierre Soulage at the Lympia Gallery. 

Several events take place in the port. The most famous of these is the Port Festival, normally held in June. During this evening enjoy music, entertainment, food and drink.... There is even a dedicated village for your children. To close the harbour festival, a firework display is scheduled at the end of the evening. Discover the article of the Port festival

Russian Cathedral

Built in 1914, St Nicholas Cathedral is one of the largest churches built outside the Russian Orthodox world. It was built by order of Tsar Alexander II of Russia in memory of his son Nicholas who died of meningitis next to the Cathedral. A real trip to Russia under the sun of the Côte d'Azur. 85 meters high, its singular architecture of the orthodox churches, offers you a magnificent spectacle. Classified as a historical monument, this place is a must-see.

 

 

Timetable & prices of the Russian Church  

Open to the public every day
except on Sunday mornings and religious holidays.

Guided tour price: 10 €.
Children - 14 years old : free
Duration of the visit : 35 minutes.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption

The basilica is located in the centre of the city in the middle of Avenue Jean Médecin. This Catholic church dates from 1879 and is built in the neo-gothic style. To admire, 2 towers of 31 meters, stained glass windows of very high quality made by 3 master glassmakers. This monument is a must-see in the city, open every day. 

The promenade of the paillon  

More commonly known as the "coulée verte", the "Promenade du Paillon" is an urban park running from the Tête Carrée de Sosno to the sea. There are various play facilities for children: swing, slide, trampoline, pirate ship, skate Park.... 

An ideal place to relax surrounded by greenery while the children play.  

In the middle of the "coulée verte", discover this space equipped with 128 water jets on 3.000m² The Water Mirror. A paradise for children in summer, if they wish to cool off, and for older children a place not to be missed for a photo. During the year, sound and light shows are organised.

 

 

Heading towards the sea, the Promenade du Paillon ends at the Jardin Albert 1er.
In the center of the latter is located the Théâtre de Verdure, monument of the centenary symbol of the attachment of the County of Nice to France. Built in 1945 facing the sea, the theater is used as a venue for concerts, theater, shows, such as the Nice Jazz Festival.

The Butterfly Walk is to be done in any season. The city of Nice is full of original ideas every year to create the event on this promenade.

Find the main events in Nice like the Nice Jazz Festival, the Ironman or Carnval of Nice

Places for shows and concerts in Nice 

The green theatre

3,000 standing places, a must-see jazz venue that has seen the greatest! Built in 1946 in the heart of the Albert 1er garden and facing the sea, the green theatre is a venue for various shows. Open air, it has welcomed the biggest names in showbiz such as Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour... Today, various concerts and plays take place in the theatre.

 

 

Nikaia Palace and Charles Ehrmann Stadium

A temple of music in Nice, it welcomes various artists throughout the year. You can attend concerts, one-man shows, shows.... With a capacity of up to 9,000 spectators for the Palais Nikaia, you will experience great emotions. 

The biggest names have already performed there: Rolling Stone, Madonna, Pink Floyd, Bob Dylan, Céline Dion, AC/DC, Prince, David Guetta , Martin Solveig, Coldplay , David Bowie, Michael Jackson,U2... 

To find out about the programming.

Lino Ventura Theatre 

In the north-east of Nice, the Lino Ventura theatre hosts shows, with a total of 25 concerts per year. Several artists have performed there, including Keziah Jones, Maceo Parker, Olivia Ruiz, Les Ogres de Barback and many others. Local artists perform in the Lino Ventura theatre. An intimate venue where you will have the pleasure of being close to your artists. Nice Music Live organizes many concerts there. Put a link for the program

Nice Opera House 

As beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside, the Nice Opera House is the place to be for shows, like a return to the good old days. It is the ideal place to attend exceptional shows such as ballets, orchestras and concerts. A nice program is proposed to you each year, go on their website to choose your next show. 

Allianz Riviera Stadium 

This very large stadium with over 45,000 seats hosts the biggest football events in Nice. The resident club is OGC Nice. It is also the venue for concerts, major shows and opera.  

Must-see museums in Nice ?

Chagall Museum

Located at the bottom of the hill of Cimiez, the national museum Marc Chagall is one of the major museums of the Côte d'Azur capital. It opened its doors in 1973 and was designed by Marc

Chagall himself. It houses his permanent collection, the largest public collection of works by the artist, on the theme of the Old Testament. 

Matisse Museum

The matisse museum is located on the second floor of the Villa des Arènes and opened its doors in 1963. The museum, labeled "Musée de France", retraces Matisse's artistic career, from "Nature morte aux livres" (1890) to "Fleurs et fruits" (1953).

Sports Museum

It is the only one sports museum in France. It allows you to rediscover the values and achievements of different sports. Located at the foot of the Allianz Riviera stadium, it has an exhibition dedicated to the local football club OGC Nice in the Aiglons café. Exclusive works in the field are to be discovered.

Museum of Fine Arts

Located on the Avenue des Baumettes, the Museum of Fine Arts was inaugurated in 1928. It presents an important collection of works covering the entire history of art from the 16th to the 20th century. This museum has been enriched over the years by important donations.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

With its emblematic and original architecture, the MAMAC is one of the most visited museums on the Côte d'Azur. Inaugurated in 1990, it is located next to the Place Garibaldi, in the heart of the city. The museum has a collection of more than hundreds of works by different artists.

Pop Art, New Realism, Minimal Art... Famous artists such as Niki de saint phalle and Klint exhibit their works here. All these movements are presented through paintings, sculptures and even installations. 

Asian Art Museum

Opened in 1998, the Asian Art Museum is located on the artificial lake of Phoenix Park. This superb building of white marble and glass was designed by the Japanese architect Kenzo Tange. It tells the story of the different Asian civilisations, notably India, China and Japan, through classical and contemporary works. A tea ceremony is also to be tested.

Our recommendations in terms of activities

Observatory of the French Riviera

L’Observatory of the French Riviera is an establishment for research, observation and dissemination of knowledge in science of the Earth and the Universe. This site is open to the public and can be visited by reservation only. You can choose between two sites: the historical Mont-Gros and the observation of the Calern plateau. One to discover the historical heritage and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bay of Angels. The other to discover the scientific activities of the observatory on a protected wild plateau.  

Train des pignes

Get on board the train des pignes and discover the landscape of the Nice hinterland.

At each stop, look out of your window at the historical and cultural monuments. Choose to board the train or the 1920 locomotive. A beautiful journey through the monuments and the green landscape awaits you. 

Phoenix Park

The Phoenix Park is 7 hectares to discover between fauna and flora. It's a fabulous journey to the land of nature. For several hours, go and meet the animals and plants in the farm, the largest greenhouse in Europe and the gardens. There is also a tree climbing course. Everything you need for a great day out.

Shopping and gourmet address in Nice ?

Avenue Jean médecin with its Place Masséna 

Large shopping street in the heart of Nice. It is the place where thousands of people from Nice pass through. You will find all the big names and independent shops. A total of 150 shops await you. A pedestrian street crossed by tram 1 and 2, it is ideal for your shopping day or gourmet break. At the end of the avenue is the Place Masséna. With its black and white tiles, its big wheel and the 7 statues of Jaume Plensa. 

Nicetoile shopping

Located in the heart of downtown Nice, more precisely in the middle of Avenue Jean Médecin, the Nicetoile includes 90 stores and restaurants. It is the ideal place for a day of shopping and to find the perfect souvenir or gift idea for your loved ones. Open every day except in exceptional cases. More info

Perfumery Molinard

Offer perfumes from one of the most renowned houses on the French Riviera. The Molinard perfumery has existed since 1849 and has a shop in the old town of Nice. Try the fragrance workshops for children and adults to develop your sense of smell. You can even create your own perfume. More info.

Alziari Mill

Discover the secrets of olive oil production and its origins with Alziari Mill. Located in the old town since 1932, a visit of the mill is proposed. Discover the know-how of the miller, the different vintages and have a tasting. Leave with their locally produced and PDO-labelled products. For more information.

Confiserie Florian

For those who love calissons, candied fruits and chocolate, the Florian confectionery is the place to be. Located in the port of Nice and since 1921, it offers a wide range of chocolate boxes and pastries. The craftsman is especially famous for transforming the products of the region into candied fruit, jam, crystallized flowers and confectionery. A guided tour of the workshops and a free tasting session are also available. More info.

The city's markets

Several markets are present in Nice, to find local products, flowers, vintage objects and furniture, handicrafts...

• The Cours Saleya flower market

Discover the most beautiful flowers of the region in this market classified among the exceptional markets of France. Open every day except Monday

• Second-hand market Cours Saleya

Search for the best items and make bargains. Every Monday from 7am-6pm.

• Fruit, vegetable and fish market Cours Saleya

Open every day except Monday

• Night-time craft market Cours Saleya

Ideal place to make some purchases during your summer evenings. Open from mid-May to mid-September, every day except Monday, from 6pm to 12.30pm.

• Old Nice Fish Market Place Toja

Find his fresh fish for a good home cooked meal. Open every day except Monday

• Place du Palais Market Old Nice

Original and period books are on display. Open every day except Monday

• Liberation fruit and vegetable market

Fresh products from the region are to be found. Open every day except Monday

• Flea Market, Robilante Square

Vintage items can be found there. Open every day except Monday

• Les Artisanales market Place de Garibaldi

The artisans of Nice exhibit their creations every Sunday of the month.

How to get around Nice?

Public transport: Ligne d'Azur

The city has a very good public transport network with various bus and tram lines. Ligne d'Azur All your travel needs can be met from as little as €1.50 per ticket and for a duration of 74 minutes.   

Car Hire

To get around the city, it is not necessary to have a car. However, if you want to venture into the hinterland of Nice or move around the Côte d'Azur, there are many rental companies offering various vehicles. You also have the possibility of going through platforms between individuals. Depending on your vehicle and the insurance you take out, expect to pay between 40 and 100€ for a day.

The little train

For 45 minutes, discover Nice. Starting from the Promenade des Anglais, at the foot of the Centenary monument, go through all the city's must-see places.

Two tours are available: "city centre" or "castle". The visit is commented by an audioguide in 8 languages. Full price from 10€ and 5€ for children.   

Nice Le Grand Tour

For 1h30, take a tour from Nice to Villefranche with Nice Le Grand Tour. This double-decker bus offers a guided tour in 9 languages. In total, there are 12 stops passing by the most famous places in the city. It is possible to get on and off at each stop. The ticket is bought on board the bus. 

Rent a bike or e-bike

Discover Nice in a sporty way with the blue bikes. Several bikes and stations are present throughout the city. To rent a bike or electric bike, download the application E-velobleu. The application can be downloaded on Android and Iphone. Free for 30 minutes then 1,50€ for each additional half hour. You have the possibility to make a subscription. I'm going to see the website.

Segway or electric scooter ride

Very trendy at the moment, visit Nice on board a segway or electric scooter for 1 to 2 hours, in group or alone. Mobilboard offers this service. Link to the website

Where to sleep in Nice?

You have more than 150 hotels and residences that welcome you all year round.
We propose you our small selection of places :
Hotel Nice Riviera
Hotel Mercure NIce Marché aux fleurs
Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice ...

If you want to compare more hotels, we invite you to go to the website of the metropolitan tourist office
Here is the link > nicetourisme.com/reservation-accommodation