You feel the magic of the French Riviera the instant you arrive in Nice. The light is different, a mix of brilliant Mediterranean sun and the soft glow reflecting off the famous pebble beaches. The air smells like sea salt and fresh lavender, and the sound of waves crashing on the shore creates a soundtrack for your entire stay. It’s the perfect blend of laid-back coastal charm and sophisticated French elegance, a place where you can find a quiet cafe to enjoy your coffee in the morning and explore a medieval hilltop village by the afternoon.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer, more immersive stay, a trip to the French Riviera’s unofficial capital is an absolute must. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve created a personal guide to the best things to do in Nice, featuring our favorite spots and insider tips for an unforgettable trip.
Your Ultimate Guide to Nice: 10 Unforgettable Things to Do
1. Wander Through the Colorful Streets of Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Your first port of call in Nice has to be the Old Town, or Vieux Nice. This isn’t just a place to see; it’s a place to get wonderfully lost in. The narrow, winding streets are a vibrant maze of pastel-colored buildings, tiny shops, and hidden squares. We spent hours here, just following our instincts and discovering something new at every turn, a charming bookshop, a beautiful old church, or the aroma of fresh baking wafting from a boulangerie. The whole area is a photographer’s dream!
While you’re here, make sure you visit the Cours Saleya. By day, it’s a bustling flower market and a food market filled with fresh produce and local delights. The colors and smells are intoxicating. By night, the market transforms into a lively open-air dining area. Don’t miss trying a slice of socca, a delicious chickpea pancake, from one of the local vendors. It’s the perfect snack to eat on the go.
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2. Stroll or Cycle the Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is an iconic symbol of Nice, a wide, seven-kilometer stretch that runs along the Baie des Anges. Walking along this famous seafront is an essential part of the Nice experience. You’ll see locals jogging, cyclists whizzing by, and people simply sitting on the famous blue chairs, gazing out at the turquoise water. The energy here is wonderful, a mix of leisurely holidaymakers and locals going about their daily lives.
We loved walking the entire length of the promenade, feeling the sea breeze on our faces. It’s a great way to cover a lot of ground and get a different perspective of the city. As you walk, you’ll pass grand hotels like the legendary Le Negresco, a stunning landmark that’s a piece of art in itself.
3. Climb to the Top of Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
For the best panoramic views of Nice, head up to Castle Hill. Don’t worry, you don’t have to climb all the stairs; there’s an elevator on the eastern end of the Promenade des Anglais, right by the bell tower. The park at the top is a beautiful, peaceful place with a waterfall, shaded walkways, and benches that offer breathtaking views.
From the top, you get a postcard-perfect view of the entire Bay of Angels, the rooftops of the Old Town, and the harbor on the other side. This is the spot to go for a romantic sunset or a quiet morning coffee. The views are truly unforgettable!
4. Take a Day Trip to Monte Carlo, Monaco
One of the great joys of visiting Nice is its proximity to other stunning destinations on the French Riviera. A short and scenic train ride of about 20 minutes can take you to the glamorous city-state of Monte Carlo, Monaco. The city’s famous harbor is filled with superyachts, and the streets are home to luxury shops, beautiful hotels, and high-end restaurants.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, an architectural masterpiece. Even if you don’t play, you can still admire the stunning Belle Époque building. The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is also worth a visit, especially to see the changing of the guard ceremony. It’s a great way to spend a day away from the hustle of Nice and experience a whole different world of luxury and elegance.
5. Relax on the Beautiful Beaches of the Bay of Angels
The beaches of Nice are famous for their smooth, grey pebbles. While this might be a surprise if you’re used to sand, like we are, it’s part of the city’s unique charm. The water is a stunning shade of turquoise, and the sound of the waves rolling over the stones is incredibly soothing. The main beach along the Promenade des Anglais is public, and you’ll find plenty of space to lay out a towel.
For a bit more comfort and a more tranquil experience, consider paying for a sunbed at one of the private beaches. These spots offer comfortable chairs, umbrellas, and waiter service right to your seat, making it easy to spend a full day relaxing by the water.
Note: Nice isn’t exactly a budget-friendly destination, so if you’re watching your spending, be sure to check restaurant menus and sunbed prices before you commit.
6. Indulge in Niçoise Cuisine
Food is a major part of the Nice experience, and the local cuisine is a delicious mix of French and Italian influences. The most famous local dish is Salade Niçoise, a hearty salad with tuna, anchovies, olives, tomatoes, and boiled eggs. You can find it on almost every menu. Other must-try dishes include:
- Pissaladière: A delicious onion tart with anchovies and olives.
- Les Petits Farcis: Vegetables (zucchini, tomatoes) stuffed with a meat and breadcrumb filling.
- Socca: A very thin and crispy pancake made from chickpea flour, cooked in a wood-fired oven. This is a staple street food in Nice and a must-try for a quick, delicious snack
For an authentic dining experience, head to the Old Town or the area around the port. We loved just wandering until we found a menu that appealed to us, then settling in for a long, relaxed dinner with a glass of local rosé.
7. Discover the Port Lympia Quarter
Just beyond the eastern end of the Old Town lies Port Lympia, the city’s bustling harbor. This area has a different feel from the rest of Nice, with a mix of grand old buildings and luxurious yachts. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, a coffee, or a glass of wine at one of the cafes overlooking the water. We loved just sitting and watching the boats come and go, imagining where they were heading.
From the port, you can also catch a ferry to nearby destinations like Saint-Tropez or the beautiful island of Corsica if you’re feeling adventurous. The area is a bit quieter than the Old Town but just as charming.
8. Take a Day Trip to the Medieval Village of Èze
One of the most magical things about staying in Nice is its proximity to other incredible destinations on the French Riviera. A day trip to Èze is an absolute must and hands down one of the best things to do in Nice! This breathtaking medieval village is perched on a hilltop, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Mediterranean coastline you will ever see. You can get here easily by bus, and the journey itself is beautiful. Another great option is to opt for this tour, which offers a more personalized experience.
Wandering through the stone alleys and discovering the art galleries, small boutiques, and lush gardens at the very top is a truly unique experience. We absolutely loved exploring Èze; its charm is irresistible, and we can’t recommend it enough!
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9. Enjoy a Picnic in a Local Park
For a more relaxed, budget-friendly activity, pack a picnic and head to one of Nice’s beautiful parks. We recommend either the Jardin Albert 1er, a central green space just next to the Promenade, or the Promenade du Paillon, a long park with fountains and playgrounds that runs through the city center. You can grab some delicious bread, cheese, and local wine from a market and find a perfect spot to people-watch and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. It’s a great way to feel like a local and take a break from the hustle and bustle.
TIP: The nearest MONOP’ (convenience store) to the Promenade du Paillon is right on Place Masséna, just a five-minute stroll from the park at 15 Place Masséna.
10. Take a Cooking Class and Learn to Make Niçoise Specialties
Among the many memorable things to do in Nice, taking a cooking class for a truly immersive experience is one of our favorites. We found a small, intimate class in the Old Town where we learned to make a perfect ratatouille and a traditional Niçoise tart. It was a wonderful way to connect with the local culture, meet other travelers, and bring a little piece of the French Riviera home with us. The best part? Getting to eat all of our creations at the end of the class, accompanied by some local wine.
If you’re ready to get hands-on and learn how to cook like a local, you can book a cooking class here.
A Final Thought on Things to Do in Nice
Nice is more than just a beautiful place; it’s a city that invites you to live in the moment. From the simple joy of a stroll along the promenade to the thrill of discovering a hidden gem in the Old Town, every experience feels personal and special. Are you ready to fall in love with the magic of the French Riviera?
Ready to kick off your trip planning? Check out these handy travel resources:
