Nice France Travel Guide: 20 BEST Things To Do In Nice

This Nice travel guide shares the best things to do in Nice.

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Recommended Tours in Nice:

The Best of the French Riviera Small group Guided Tour from Nice: https://www.viator.com/tours/Nice/Small-group-full-day-excursion-to-Best-of-the-Riviera/d478-88256P6?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Nice

Train Experience Through The Alps (Full Day): https://www.viator.com/tours/Nice/TRAIN-EXPERIENCE-THROUGH-THE-ALPS-DISCOVERING-THE-BAROQUE-ROYAL-ROUTE-SALT-TRADE-ROAD-FULL-DAY/d478-14737P11?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Nice

Provence Wine Tour – Small Group Tour from Nice: https://www.viator.com/tours/Nice/Provence-Wine-Tour-Shared-Tour-from-Nice/d478-142755P7?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Nice

Provence Countryside Small Group Day Trip with Grasse Perfumery Visit from Nice: https://www.viator.com/tours/Nice/Provence-Countryside-Small-Group-Day-Trip/d478-2356NCE05?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Nice
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Welcome to Nice, France, a vibrant city on the French Riviera known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, charming Old Town, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, history, or culinary delights, Nice offers something for everyone. Here are the top things to do in Nice.

Start with a walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, a seaside boulevard lined with palm trees and breathtaking views of the azure waters. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, biking, or simply soaking up the Riviera atmosphere.

Explore Vieux Nice (Old Town), a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful buildings, local shops, and bustling markets. Visit the Cours Saleya Market, known for its fresh flowers, produce, and local specialties.

Climb up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views of Nice, the Bay of Angels, and the port. While the castle itself no longer stands, the lush park, waterfall, and viewpoints make it a must-visit spot.

Visit the Matisse Museum, dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice. The museum offers a comprehensive look at his artistic journey and is located in a beautiful 17th-century villa.

Admire the architecture of Place Masséna, the city’s main square, with its distinctive checkerboard design and surrounding colorful facades. Nearby, you can find the tranquil Jardin Albert 1er, one of the oldest gardens in Nice.

Relax at Nice’s beaches, whether you prefer private beach clubs or public stretches of pebbled shoreline. The Mediterranean waters are perfect for swimming or just unwinding under the sun.

Discover the Marc Chagall National Museum, which houses the largest collection of the artist’s works inspired by biblical themes. The museum is a treasure trove for art lovers.

Visit the Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate) in the heart of Old Town. Its Baroque architecture and intricate details make it a serene and beautiful place to explore.

For a taste of local cuisine, try socca, a traditional chickpea pancake, or visit one of the many restaurants serving fresh seafood and Provençal dishes.

Nice is a city that perfectly balances the elegance of the French Riviera with its own unique charm. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, relaxing by the sea, or enjoying its vibrant culture, Nice offers an unforgettable experience.

Keep watching to see the top things to do in Nice, top attractions in Nice, places to visit in Nice and France travel guides.

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So you want to know what are the 
best things to do in Nice, France? Great, you’re in the right place. In this video we’re gonna discuss 
the top things to do in Nice. Number 20: Vieux Nice
Vieux Nice, the Old Town, is a lively area with narrow streets and colorful buildings.
As you stroll through, you’ll find local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The Cours Saleya market is a perfect place for fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.
You will also see historic sites like the Nice Cathedral and the Palais Lascaris, known 
for their beautiful baroque architecture. The area is also close to the 
beach, where you can enjoy a swim. In the evening, you can enhance your experience 
by being part of the area’s vibrant nightlife. Number 19: Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Castle Hill is a green hill offering breathtaking views of Nice and the Bay of Angels.
At the summit, wander around the large park with a playground, picnic 
spots, and an artificial waterfall. You can visit the Belanda Tower, the last 
remaining part of the 12th-century Château de Nice, and enjoy panoramic views from 
the observation deck above the waterfall. You can also wander along mosaic-covered 
paths inspired by Greek designs. The site also features a Jewish cemetery 
(Cimetière Israélite), reflecting Nice’s rich history.
Don’t miss the cannon shot at noon, and enjoy watching the sunrise over the harbor 
or the sunset over the Promenade des Anglais. Number 18: Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is a walkway stretching along Nice’s Mediterranean coastline.
This popular spot offers plenty of space to stroll, relax, or enjoy people-watching.
You can also rent a bike to explore this area or take a run while soaking 
in the beautiful sea views. The promenade is lined with cafes 
and palm trees, perfect for a break. As you walk, you’ll pass the iconic Hotel Le 
Negresco, a grand building worth admiring. There is also direct access to the beaches which 
makes it easy to enjoy the seaside, whether you’re looking to swim or simply relax by the water.
Number 17: Place Masséna Named after one of Napoleon’s famous generals, 
Place Masséna is a perfect area to be at if you enjoy impressive architecture.
This central square offers a striking blend of red and ochre buildings, highlighted by 
a distinctive black-and-white checkerboard floor. At its heart, you’ll find the Fontaine 
du Soleil, featuring a statue of Apollo. It’s an ideal place to take photos, especially 
with the evening lights illuminating the statues. If you visit at the right time, you can join the 
public events and festivals held here year-round, adding to its lively atmosphere.
Number 16: Marc Chagall National Museum The Marc Chagall National Museum 
is a great stop for art lovers. It showcases the work of Marc Chagall, 
a renowned 20th-century artist known for his colorful and surreal style.
The museum is home to a collection of his paintings, sculptures, and stained glass, with 
the highlight being his biblical series—17 large works depicting stories from the Old Testament.
As you explore, you can admire Chagall’s vibrant use of color and dreamlike imagery.
The museum also features beautiful modern architecture and stained-glass 
windows, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Take time to relax in the serene garden 
surrounding the museum and enjoy the art in a tranquil setting.
Number 15: Nice Carnival The Nice Carnival is one of the biggest and most 
famous festivals in France, held every February. You can enjoy colorful parades with amazing 
floats and lively street performances. A highlight is the Bataille de Fleurs, where 
flowers are thrown from floats into the crowd. The festival features many activities, 
including dance troupes and acrobatic shows. You can visit the Carnival Village on 
the Promenade du Paillon for workshops, food stalls, and more.
Number 14: Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate)
The Nice Cathedral is one of the main religious sites in Nice, located 
in the heart of the Old Town. Built in the 17th century, the cathedral 
shows off impressive Baroque architecture. Inside, you’ll see beautiful stained 
glass windows and religious artwork that add to its peaceful atmosphere.
The cathedral also has marble columns, a high domed ceiling, and intricate gold 
details that make it visually striking. You can check out the ten chapels 
within, each offering unique artwork. The cathedral’s bell tower stands tall and can 
be spotted from different points in the city. Number 13: Port Lympia
Port Lympia is a great harbor filled with yachts, fishing boats, 
and colorful buildings along the coast. You can enjoy a peaceful walk by the water, 
taking in the sights of boats coming and going. The area is lively, with cafes and shops where you 
can stop for a bite to eat or do some shopping. As you explore, don’t miss the Monument aux Morts, 
a war memorial carved into the cliff, honoring those who lost their lives in both world wars.
The port is also the departure point for ferries to Corsica, making it a busy 
and exciting place year-round. Number 12: Nice Beaches
One of the things you don’t want to miss in the city is spending time on its beautiful beaches.
With miles of coastline along the French Riviera, you’ll find both private and public 
beaches, all offering a unique experience. Private beaches like Blue Beach or Castel Beach 
offer sun loungers, showers, and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Public beaches like Plage des Ponchettes are great for volleyball and 
have easy access to restaurants. You can enjoy the rolling Mediterranean 
waves, swim in the teal blue water, or simply relax on the sand.
Number 11: Marché aux Fleurs The Marché aux Fleurs, located on 
Cours Saleya, has been a staple of the local community since 1861.
Originally established to sell flowers to perfume makers, it has grown into a 
bustling market offering more than just blooms. Today, you can find colorful 
stalls filled with flowers, fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties.
You can also find local products like olives, cheese, dried meats, honey, and jam, 
or enjoy hot Provencal dishes and sweet treats like nougat and candies.
On Mondays, the space transforms into an antique market, showcasing unique items like 
vintage jewelry, china, art, and French trinkets. By the way, check the links in the 
description for the ultimate guide on saving money while traveling, plus 
recommended tour operators in Nice. Number 10: Saint Nicholas Cathedral 
(Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice) Also known as the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, 
the Saint Nicholas Cathedral is a religious landmark, famous for its unique 
architectural design and rich history. Built in the early 20th century to 
serve the large Russian community, it features striking onion-shaped domes 
and intricate mosaics on the exterior. The vibrant colors and ornate 
detailing make it a standout landmark. Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive, 
with walls adorned with religious icons, stunning murals, and carved woodwork.
The cathedral is also a place of worship, so you can experience its spiritual significance 
while appreciating its exceptional design and artistic features.
Number 9: Local Cuisine Your visit to Nice is not complete 
without exploring its vibrant food scene. Start with a Provencal food tour, where you can 
sample classic Niçois dishes like socca, a crispy chickpea pancake, or pissaladière, a savory tart 
with anchovies, caramelized onions, and olives. You can try petits farcis niçois, stuffed 
vegetables filled with seasoned meat, or a fresh pan bagnat, the sandwich 
version of a salade niçoise. You can also stroll through markets to 
taste olives, candied fruits, and nuts, or enjoy local cheeses with seasonal 
produce like tomatoes and grapes. Number 8: Palais Lascaris 
(Musée du Palais Lascaris) Once the residence of the Lascaris-Vintimille 
family, the Palais Lascaris is now a museum. As you walk through the museum, you’ll discover 
baroque-style rooms with frescoed ceilings, golden staircases, and antique furniture.
You can admire a collection of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries that reveal 
the luxurious lifestyle of the past. The museum also lets you explore an 
impressive collection of over 500 ancient musical instruments, making 
it the second-largest in France. As you wander through, you’ll see 
instruments donated by Antoine Gautier, a well-known figure from Nice, giving you 
a rare chance to experience these unique pieces up close.
Number 7: Monaco Take a day trip to Monaco, located 13 miles (21 
km) from Nice, and enjoy its many attractions. Begin by visiting the Prince’s Palace, where 
you can explore the impressive courtyard and see 16th-century frescoes.
Next, watch the changing of the guard ceremony at 11:55 a.m. for a 
glimpse of Monaco’s military tradition. If you love cars, the Prince Rainier III 
Automobile Collection is worth exploring, featuring vintage cars and racing models.
You can also visit the Oceanographic Museum to discover marine life in its large aquarium.
For a peaceful break, walk through the Monaco Japanese Garden, a quiet spot with ponds, 
koi fish, and beautiful Mediterranean plants. Number 6: Wine Tour
You can enjoy a full wine tour experience with visits to local 
vineyards, including the Bellet wine region, famous for its unique grape varieties.
As you explore, you’ll learn the traditional wine-making process, from grape 
cultivation to wine pressing in stone buildings. You’ll have the chance to taste a variety 
of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés, while guided by knowledgeable sommeliers.
This tour also gives you time to stop in a nearby village for lunch, allowing you 
to soak in the stunning rural landscapes. Throughout the day, you’ll gain insight into 
Provence’s wine history, including the ancient Greek influence on the region’s vineyards.
Number 5: Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC)
The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is one of Nice’s most popular 
museums and an incredible place for art lovers. Built in the early 1990s, the museum is known 
for its unique architecture, featuring four concrete towers connected by glass corridors.
The museum houses works from artists like Yves Klein, Andy Warhol, and Francis Bacon, with 
exhibitions focused on European New Realism, American pop art, and minimalism.
You can enjoy temporary exhibitions on the first floor and permanent 
collections on the upper levels. Don’t miss the observation deck at the top, 
offering stunning 360-degree views of Nice. The museum also has a public library and 
a striking sculpture garden featuring Tête Carrée by Sacha Sosno.
Number 4: Monastère de Cimiez At the Monastère de Cimiez, you can explore 
a historic 9th-century monastery nestled on a hilltop, surrounded by beautiful 
gardens with olive trees and roses. The peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect 
for quiet reflection or a relaxing stroll through the well-kept gardens.
Inside, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption features stunning 15th-century 
artwork, including paintings by Louis Bréa. You can also visit the Franciscan 
Museum to learn about the history of the Franciscan friars in Nice.
The nearby cemetery is the final resting place of famous artists like Henri Matisse.
Number 3: Parasailing To enhance your visit to Nice, 
try parasailing over the Bay of Angels for awesome views of the coast.
You’ll be lifted high above the water, with the option to fly solo or with friends and family.
The ride lasts up to ten minutes, offering a unique perspective of Nice from the sky.
For a bit more excitement, combine parasailing with tubing – hold tight as you’re 
pulled across the water in front of the famous Promenade des Anglais.
Number 2: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Located just 6 miles (10 km) from 
Nice, Saint–Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a peaceful place with plenty to explore.
Start at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a stunning 20th-century villa filled 
with rare art and elegant furniture. Its gardens are perfect for a stroll, offering 
fountains, sculptures, and beautiful sea views. You can wander through the Old Town, 
where colorful houses and cozy cafes create a charming atmosphere.
For a relaxing day, head to one of the beaches, like Plage Cros Dei 
Pin for swimming or Plage des Fossettes. You can also enjoy scenic coastal trails, 
passing spots like a lighthouse and Villa Santo Sospir with Jean Cocteau’s artwork.
Don’t miss the quiet Saint-Hospice Chapel and its impressive Madonna statue.
Number 1: Snorkeling If you want to try snorkeling, head 
to the clear waters of Nice Reserve. This spot is perfect for spotting small fish 
early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. The water is so clear that you can 
enjoy a close-up view of marine life. For more adventure, explore the coastal path 
around Villefranche-sur-Mer Bay, where you’ll find small wild creeks and natural pools with 
vibrant turquoise water, ideal for snorkeling. You can also visit the beaches 
of Villefranche-sur-Mer Bay, such as Plage des Marinières and Plage de 
la Darse, known for their rich marine life, including starfish and colorful fish.
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