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Nice, France

Destination Guide

Nice

France

Best things to do in Nice

22 curated attractions in Nice, France. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

May - September

Average temp

15°C/59°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Very safe

About Nice

Nice is the fifth largest city in France and the unofficial capital of the French Riviera, a place that became a playground for the European elite in the 19th century. This history left a mark on its wide boulevards and Belle Époque architecture, while the Mediterranean Sea lends a distinct blue to the shoreline. The Old Town, or Vieux Nice, stands in contrast with its narrow, winding streets packed with colorful buildings and local markets, particularly the busy Cours Saleya Market where you can find everything from sunflowers to socca. The city's numerous museums, including those dedicated to Matisse and Chagall, are a testament to its rich artistic heritage. Visitors come for the Promenade des Anglais, where they can stroll along the waterfront and marvel at the views, which are a bargain compared to the gelato prices you'll encounter.

Who it's for

Great for those who enjoy art, history, and a good dose of sunshine. Perfect for couples on a romantic getaway or families looking for a beach vacation. Those seeking a more authentic experience should be wary of the tourist prices and the crowds, especially around the main attractions.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • Most of the Old Town is walkable, so you can explore at your own pace
  • Tram services regularly run from the airport to the city center in about 30 minutes
  • Public buses are reliable, but you might want to brush up on the local routes
  • The Promenade des Anglais is popular for jogging, walking, or cycling
Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Old towns & historic quarters
Marc Chagall National Museum

Marc Chagall National Museum

Art museums & galleries
Fort du Mont Alban

Fort du Mont Alban

Forts & citadels
Matisse Museum

Matisse Museum

Art museums & galleries
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice

Art museums & galleries
Musée Masséna

Musée Masséna

History museums
Place Masséna

Place Masséna

Squares & plazas
Place Rosetti

Place Rosetti

Urban Attractions
Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Churches & cathedrals
Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC)

Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC)

Art museums & galleries
Palais Lascaris

Palais Lascaris

Historic houses & mansions
Parc Phoenix

Parc Phoenix

City parks
Cours Saleya Market

Cours Saleya Market

Food markets & food halls
Promenade des Anglais

Promenade des Anglais

Coastal walks & sea cliffs
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Historic houses & mansions
Parc de la Colline du Château

Parc de la Colline du Château

City parks
Grotte du Lazaret

Grotte du Lazaret

Historical Attractions
Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate)

Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate)

Churches & cathedrals
Nice Opera House

Nice Opera House

Theatres & opera houses
Avenue Jean Médecin

Avenue Jean Médecin

Streets & neighbourhoods
Église Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours

Église Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours

Religious Sites
Puces de Nice

Puces de Nice

Shopping and Markets

Where to eat in Nice

The places worth planning a meal around.

Le Plongeoir

Le Plongeoir

Mediterranean

★ 4.3 · 4,984 reviews

Castel Plage

Castel Plage

Mediterranean

★ 4.4 · 4,828 reviews

Rue Plage

Rue Plage

French

★ 4.0 · 2,476 reviews

Au Cœur des Terroirs

Au Cœur des Terroirs

French Provençal · $$

★ 5.0 · 233 reviews

Marcelles

Marcelles

French Mediterranean · $$

★ 4.9 · 56 reviews

Fenocchio

Fenocchio

Gelato · $3–$6 per scoop

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