French riviera, Nice
A Mediterranean Paradise for Sun and Culture Lovers
A gorgeous French Riviera destination, Nice is a perfect combination of sun, sea, and rich culture. Nice is a must-see for anyone who wants to explore France because of its amazing Mediterranean views, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture.
Must-Visit Places in French Riviera, Nice
Nice’s sun-soaked beaches, charming old town, and stunning coastal views await you on the French Riviera; It doesn’t matter if you’re a culture junkie or a beach hopper, this blog will show you all the places to go in Nice that will make your trip truly memorable. Check out these hidden gems and iconic landmarks to make your trip to the French Riviera unforgettable.
Castle Hill
(Colline du Château)
Climb up or take the lift to Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and the coastline. The park also has ruins, a waterfall, and lush greenery to explore.
Marc Chagall National Museum
Dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, focusing on his religious-themed paintings.
Vieux Nice
(Old Town)
Wander through the maze of narrow, winding streets of Nice’s historic quarter, filled with colorful buildings, local boutiques, and traditional markets like the Cours Saleya.
Promenade des Anglais
This iconic seaside promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and access to the city’s pebbly beaches.
Matisse Museum
Showcases works by Henri Matisse, providing insight into his connection with Nice.
Monastère de Cimiez
A peaceful monastery with beautiful gardens and panoramic views.
Local Festivals and Carnivals
Nice is famous for its vibrant cultural events that attract visitors from around the world.
- The Nice Carnival, held every February, is one of the most celebrated in France, featuring parades, floats, and fireworks.
- The Nice Jazz Festival in July is another highlight, offering live performances from top international artists in a unique open-air setting.
- The Festival of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in June is a traditional event celebrating the city’s maritime heritage with processions and blessings of the sea.
Throughout the year, the city also hosts numerous art exhibitions, food festivals, and local celebrations that provide an authentic glimpse into Niçoise culture.
Activities to Do in French Riviera, Nice
The city of Nice, France, is full of adventures, relaxation, and culture exploration. Nice is a destination with a ton of things to do, that will leave you enchanted and longing for more; from its sun-drenched beaches and vibrant markets to its rich history and world-class cuisine, it’s a destination you’ll never want to leave. Enrich your stay in Nice with these activities and make it really special.
Sail on the Mediterranea
Experience the beauty of the Mediterranean from a different perspective by taking a sailing trip. Rent a boat or join a guided tour to explore the stunning coastline, visit hidden coves, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Attend Local Festivals
Nice hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year that showcase the city’s vibrant culture. The Nice Carnival, held in February, is one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world, featuring colorful parades, music, and dancing. In July, the Nice Jazz Festival brings world-renowned musicians to the city for a week of unforgettable performances.
Take a Wine Tour
Explore the vineyards of the surrounding countryside and sample some of the region’s finest wines. Join a guided wine tour to learn about the local winemaking process and taste a variety of wines, from rosés to reds, paired with delicious local cheeses and charcuterie.
Discover the French Riviera by Train
For a scenic adventure, hop on the Train des Pignes, a historic narrow-gauge railway that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the French Riviera, from Nice to the alpine town of Digne-les-Bains. It’s a unique way to see the diverse scenery of the region, from the coast to the mountains.
Take a Day Trip to Eze or Monaco
Just a short drive from Nice, the perched village of Èze offers breathtaking views and charming streets filled with artisanal shops. Alternatively, visit the glitzy city-state of Monaco, where you can explore the famous Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the luxurious marina.
Day Trip From French Riviera, Nice
Experience the allure of the French Riviera on a journey filled with sun-soaked beaches charming coastal towns and breathtaking landscapes. Each destination offers its own unique flavour of luxury and relaxation. Indulge in delectable cuisine, explore ancient ruins or simply bask in the Mediterranean sun, French Riviera promises unforgettable moments of bliss and enchantment.
Experience the Local Cuisines of Nice, French Riviera
Try the popular street food Socca, crispy chickpea pancake. This savory food is often enjoyed hot and fresh from the market stalls.
Taste the famous Salade Nicoise, a healthy and refreshing dish contains cucumbers, tuna, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and local olives, mixed with vinaigrette dressing.
Another local specialty is Pissaladiere, a tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives, offering a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Seafood lovers should indulge in Bouillabaisse, a rich, aromatic fish stew that showcases the bounty of the Mediterranean.
Savor the sweetness of Tarte aux Blettes, a unique Swiss chard tart that blends sweet and savory ingredients like raisins, pine nuts, and sugar.
Taste the Pan bagnat, a tasty Provencal sandwich. It is a local round-shaped sandwich filled with ingredients you’d find in a Niçoise salad.
Try Ratatouille, a famous mix of cooked vegetables. It is an excellent vegetable stew that blends fresh Provencal vegetables, such as eggplants, onions, tomatoes, zucchini and green peppers, with garlic, olive oil, and local herbs.
If visiting Nice during Carnival season, enjoy Ganses, a deep-fried sweet pastries.
Itinerary Plan for your stay in French Riviera, Nice
To fully experience the blend of cultural riches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local life of Nice, plan to spend at least 4-5 days. This allows you to stroll along its iconic promenade, explore historic sites, or immerse yourself in local festivals without feeling rushed. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1 : Arrive in Nice and take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Explore Vieux Nice, visit the Nice Cathedral, and dine in a local restaurant.
Day 2 : Spend the morning at Castle Hill, followed by visits to the Matisse Museum and the Marc Chagall National Museum. Relax on the beach in the afternoon.
Day 3 : Explore the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, wander through the Cours Saleya Market, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Place Masséna. In the evening, experience the local nightlife.
Day 4 : Take a day trip to nearby Monaco or Cannes. Explore the luxury, history, and stunning coastal views.
Day 5 : Visit the Monastère de Cimiez and its gardens, followed by some last-minute shopping or beach time before departing.