Top 10 Things to Do in Nice France

Nice, France is a coastal city located in the southeastern corner of the country, on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks, there’s plenty to see and do in the city. From exploring the local cuisine and culture to enjoying the beautiful beaches, here are the top 10 things to do in Nice, France.

1. Visit the Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a famous seaside walkway that stretches along the Mediterranean coast of Nice. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll, enjoy the views, and people watch. You’ll find locals and tourists alike enjoying the sunshine and the fresh Mediterranean air. The promenade is lined with palm trees, and the beach offers plenty of activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball.

If you’re looking for a bit of culture, you can find it here too. Along the promenade you’ll find street performers, art galleries, and musicians. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy a bite to eat. The Promenade des Anglais is the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of Nice.

2. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Nice is a great place to explore the city’s culture and history. This area of the city is home to a number of historic churches, museums, and buildings. Wander the narrow streets and take in the sights of the Baroque architecture, or visit the Cours Saleya to shop for local produce and souvenirs. The Old Town is also home to many of the city’s best restaurants and cafes, so you won’t have to go far to sample some of the local cuisine.

If you’re looking for a bit of nightlife, the Old Town is home to a few nightclubs and bars. There are also plenty of shops and boutiques to explore, so you can find the perfect souvenir to take home. The Old Town of Nice is the perfect place to explore the city’s culture and history.

3. Visit the Château Hill

The Château Hill is a great place to get a panoramic view of the city. It’s home to the famous Castle Hill, which was built in the 17th century as a defense against piracy. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction with stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Take the time to explore the castle grounds, and enjoy the peaceful gardens and the breathtaking views of Nice.

The Château Hill is also home to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, which houses a collection of 20th century art. There are also a few restaurants and cafes to enjoy a bite to eat, and plenty of souvenir shops to find the perfect memento of your time in Nice.

4. Explore the Markets

The markets of Nice are a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture. There are plenty of markets to explore, offering fresh produce, souvenirs, and handmade goods. The Cours Saleya is the best known market, with hundreds of vendors offering everything from local produce to handmade jewelry. There’s also the Vieux Nice market, which is the oldest market in the city and offers a selection of traditional crafts and antiques.

The markets are a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine. You’ll find locals and tourists alike enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the markets. You can sample the local cuisine, find unique souvenirs, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.

5. Visit the Museums

Nice is home to a number of museums and galleries, each offering something unique. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art houses a collection of 20th century art, while the Musée Matisse offers a look into the life and works of the famous French artist. The Musée Masséna is a museum of local history, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts is home to a collection of European art.

If you’re looking for a more hands-on experience, the Natural History Museum offers interactive exhibits and activities for the whole family. No matter what type of museum you’re looking for, you’ll find something to enjoy in Nice.

6. See the Sights

No trip to Nice is complete without exploring the city’s top sights. The Colline du Château is the best known, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The Place Masséna is the city’s main square, filled with cafes and shops. The Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe is an impressive Russian Orthodox church, while the Palais Lascaris is a well-preserved 17th century palace.

The Promenade du Paillon is a beautiful park in the heart of the city, and the Parc des Collines is a tranquil park filled with gardens and walking paths. Take the time to explore the city’s sights and take in the beauty of Nice.

7. Enjoy the Beaches

Nice is home to some of the best beaches in France. The Promenade des Anglais is the most popular beach, with plenty of activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The Plage de la Garonne is a great spot for a relaxing day at the beach, while the Plage de Villefranche is a more secluded beach with stunning views of the Mediterranean.

If you’re looking for a bit of nightlife, the Plage de la Negresse is the place to be. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy a bite to eat, and the beach is filled with locals and tourists alike. No matter which beach you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.

8. Go Shopping

Nice is a great place to go shopping, with plenty of boutiques, department stores, and markets to explore. The Cours Saleya is the best known market, with hundreds of vendors offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. The Vieux Nice is the oldest market in the city and offers a selection of traditional crafts and antiques. The Place Masséna is the city’s main square, filled with cafes and shops.

For a more upscale shopping experience, head to the Promenade des Anglais. This area is home to designer boutiques, high-end restaurants, and luxury hotels. No matter what type of shopping you’re looking for, you’ll find something to enjoy in Nice.

9. Indulge in the Cuisine

Nice is the perfect place to indulge in the local cuisine. From the fresh seafood to the regional specialties, there’s something to please every palate. Start your day with a café au lait and a croissant, and don’t forget to try the local specialty, socca, a thin pancake made from chickpea flour. For lunch, sample the local specialties such as salade niçoise or ratatouille.

For dinner, try the local seafood such as bouillabaisse or the famous fish stew, bourride. Be sure to save room for dessert, as Nice is home to some of the best bakeries in France. No matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for, you’ll find something to enjoy in Nice.

10. Take a Day Trip

Nice is the perfect starting point for a day trip to the surrounding area. Take a trip to the nearby town of Vence, home to some of the best Roman ruins in the area. Or, take a boat trip to the nearby Îles de Lérins, a group of islands off the coast of Nice. For a more adventurous trip, take a drive to Monaco, just an hour away from Nice.

No matter where you decide to go, you’re sure to have a great time. With so much to explore and experience in the area, a day trip from Nice is the perfect way to make the most of your time in the city.

Conclusion

Nice, France is a stunning city with plenty to offer. From exploring the local culture and cuisine to taking in the breathtaking views, there’s something for everyone in Nice. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks, make sure to take the time to explore the city and its surroundings. You’re sure to find something to enjoy in Nice.