Introducing Nice
Nice is located on the Mediterranean coast in southeastern France. The northern part of the city is the Nice-Alpes Front, which belongs to the southeastern edge of the Alps; the south side is the Mediterranean Sea. The coastline is tortuous and complex, roughly running from northeast to southwest, and the town is distributed in a strip along the coastline.
The Nice metropolitan area ranks fifth in France in terms of population, making it the second largest tourist city in France after Paris. It is also one of the most attractive seaside resorts in Europe and even the world. Every year, more than 4 million tourists visit the city of Nice, which is nearly 10 times the population of the city itself.
Nice boasts a quintessential Mediterranean climate, boasting year-round warmth. The azure Mediterranean and the majestic Alps are the city's enduring landmarks. With its sacred ancient Roman history and culture, the romantic fragrance of Provence's lavender fields, and the exotic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, Nice is an undisputed holiday paradise for the French.
Climate and best time to travel
Nice is one of the warmest cities in mainland France, with a year-round pleasant climate, warm in winter and cool in summer, a typical Mediterranean climate. February is the Nice Carnival, and July and August are the lavender season.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Eze Town
This beautiful medieval town exudes a rich sense of history and classic French Mediterranean charm in every brick and tile. The town's buildings are built into the steep rock face, resembling the nests of eagles, earning it the nickname "Eagle's Nest Village." The town boasts a 360-degree panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea. Its exclusive location on a hill rising from the Mediterranean Sea creates a breathtaking contrast between the sea and mountain views.
Nice's Old Town
, the area between the Boulevard des Anglais and the Museum of Modern Art, was originally formed after the founding of the city. Its center is centered around the church and square. The Old Town is home to numerous Baroque churches and houses, imbued with the atmosphere and charm of Italian life. It boasts numerous unique shops, restaurants, and bars, and an evening market selling a variety of handicrafts. Every morning, the Old Town hosts various markets, including a secondhand market and a seafood market, offering opportunities for handicrafts, local snacks, and typical Nice dishes.
angel bay
The most beautiful section of the French Riviera, named after its shape resembling angel wings.
Recommended play time: 1-3 days
Most Popular FAQs for Nice
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Nice is a historic city on the French Riviera, founded by the Greeks in the 4th century BC. It became part of France in 1860. Known for its Mediterranean climate, architecture, and vibrant arts scene, it has long been a cultural and tourist hub in southern France.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in southeastern France on the Mediterranean coast.
- Nice Côte d’Azur Airport provides domestic and international flights; taxis and buses connect the airport to the city.
- Regional trains connect Nice to other French cities and nearby Monaco and Italy.
- Within the city, buses, trams, and walking are convenient ways to explore.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions, markets, and museums are open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; some restaurants open later.
- Best time to visit is from April to June or September to October to avoid peak summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Public attractions and museums have varied ticket prices, typically 5–15 EUR.
- Tickets can often be purchased online via official museum or city websites, or onsite at entrances.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended for popular museums, guided tours, and high-season visits, usually 1–2 weeks prior.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
2–4 days allow you to explore the main attractions, markets, museums, and nearby beaches comfortably.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Old Town (Vieux Nice)
- Promenade des Anglais
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
- Cours Saleya Market
- Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall
- Beaches along the coastline
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided city tours are available in multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, and German.
- Audio guides for museums are often available in English and French.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Castle Hill for panoramic city and sea views.
- Promenade des Anglais for sunrise/sunset photography.
- Colorful streets of Old Town for architectural shots.
- Cours Saleya Market for lively street scenes.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start at Old Town, explore markets and local shops, walk along the Promenade des Anglais, climb Castle Hill, and visit one or two museums before relaxing at a beach or seaside cafe.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Evening strolls along the Promenade des Anglais and Old Town are popular.
- Some museums offer special evening openings or events seasonally.
- Restaurants and bars in Old Town provide a lively nightlife experience.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak season is July–August, with crowded beaches and streets.
- Least crowded times are weekdays in spring or autumn.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public restrooms are available at beaches and major attractions.
- Restaurants, cafes, and shops are widely available.
- Water fountains and shaded rest areas exist along the Promenade and parks.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Most streets and beaches are accessible; some steep streets in Old Town may be challenging for wheelchairs.
- Public transport and ramps are available for disabled visitors.
- Family-friendly facilities are widely present.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and museums.
- Cash in euros is useful for markets and small vendors.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Restaurants in Old Town offering Niçoise cuisine.
- Seaside cafes along Promenade des Anglais.
- International cuisine restaurants throughout the city.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants are available in Old Town and city center.
- Halal food options are available in select restaurants, mostly in central Nice.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luxury hotels along Promenade des Anglais.
- Mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses in Old Town.
- Budget hostels and apartments throughout central Nice.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Monaco (1–2 hours by train)
- Cannes (30–40 minutes by train)
- Èze village and hilltop gardens
- Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops in Old Town and near Promenade des Anglais.
- Typical souvenirs include lavender products, local wines, postcards, Provencal textiles, and art prints.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Regional trains to Cannes, Monaco, and surrounding Riviera towns.
- Buses connecting to nearby villages and beaches.
- Car rentals for scenic coastal drives along the French Riviera.
