Nice, France, a beautiful seaside city, is the perfect destination to start your adventure along the stunning French Riviera. It offers easy access to some of the most iconic spots on the Côte d'Azur, such as Cannes, Monaco, Eze, Saint-Tropez, and Antibes, all just a short train ride away. Whether you're in the mood for exploring nearby towns or enjoying a relaxing beach day, Nice has it all.
You can even use a rental car for day trips to picturesque locations like the medieval hilltop village of Saint Paul de Vence. The tram system in Nice is very useful, and the main attractions are walkable, making it an easy place to explore. With so many wonderful, travel-friendly options, Nice is the perfect starting point for discovering the beauty of the south of France and all it has to offer.
How to Reach Nice
Nice is easily accessible through its international airport, which offers flights from the United States and connections from Paris and other European cities. Once you land, you can quickly reach downtown using the simple-to-use and convenient tram network. For those traveling by train, there’s excellent train service between Nice and Marseille, with a high-speed train connecting to Lyon as well.
If you're driving, all the major car rental agencies are available at the airport and other downtown locations. During my recent trip, I rented a car after traveling by train from Paris, and drove to Nice with a quick lunch stop in the charming town of Cassis. If you're new to renting and driving a car in France, you can check out my Driving in France blog post for helpful tips.
Things to See in Nice
Walk along the English Promenade
A walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice is a must for anyone visiting the city. This iconic promenade stretches nearly 5 miles long along the Mediterranean beach, offering stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Originally built in the 1800s for English tourists who came for the perfect weather, it features a palm tree-lined path that’s perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
The wide, pedestrian-only walkway and bike lane make it accessible for everyone. If you want to ride, Lime has replaced Vélo Blue as the new rental bike provider, and renting a bike is now super easy. Simply download the app, add your credit card, and scan the QR code to get started. For the best views, climb the steps to La Colline du Château, where you can enjoy an even more spectacular view of the Mediterranean beach and the city.
Castle Hill Views
For some of the most stunning views of Nice, head to La Colline du Château, a park located at the end of the Promenade des Anglais. From here, you can capture breathtaking aerial photos of the Mediterranean coastline. To reach the top, you can either take the elevator or, like we did, climb the stairs. The hike up is worth it, as there is a landing halfway that offers a beautiful view.
At the top, you'll find a large plaza area with a panorama view of the city and the coastline, which is truly classic. If you continue to explore, you'll discover a waterfall and, on the rear side of the park, a peaceful view of Port Lymbia without the usual crowds. It’s the perfect place to take your time, enjoy the hike, and be treated to some more to see along the way.
Discovering the Old Town
Exploring Old Town Nice is like stepping into a world of colorful architecture and picturesque piazzas. Don’t miss visiting Maison Auer Chocolaterie for some delicious sweet treats, a favorite of Queen Victoria herself. The Cours Saleya market, located in the heart of the Old Town, is a must-see, especially if you're there from Tuesday through Sunday when the flower market comes alive with vibrant colors. It also offers a variety of crafts, vegetables, fruit, baked goods, and jam.
In the afternoon, the market gives way to outdoor dining spaces at nearby restaurants. While walking around, you’ll spot the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, a large yellow baroque architecture church from the 1700s, open Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Don't miss the stunning fresco on the ceiling, and the staircase across from the church offers an elevated view of the market and beyond. For art lovers, Musée Matisse showcases the artist’s artwork and personal artifacts, while the Chagall Museum offers a smaller collection of his work.
Both are a short ride from downtown via the number 5 bus, which takes about 20 minutes. For those who enjoy art, visiting Saint Paul de Vence to see Chagall’s grave and the local art galleries is a real treat. Other notable attractions include Lascaris Palace, Galleries des Pochettes, and the Cathedral Sainte Reparate.
Enjoying the Nice Beaches
When in Nice, the Mediterranean coastline is a must-see. The city has both public and private beaches, each offering a unique experience. Private beaches are easy to spot with their umbrellas, lounge chairs, and added amenities like lockers and a restaurant, but you’ll need to pay an admission price and for things like lounge chairs.
On the other hand, public beaches are free, though they are made of pebbles and rocks instead of soft sandy shores. For comfort, it’s a good idea to bring plastic water shoes. Whether you’re lounging at Neptune Beach, Castle Beach, or Blue Beach, or relaxing at Volilier Beach, Beau Rivage Public Beach, or Carras Beach, there's always a spot to enjoy the seaside and take in the beautiful Mediterranean water.
You can easily visit these popular beaches for some coastal relaxation or fun in the sun. Each beach also provides cold water showers to help you cool off, making the beach experience even better.
The Best Time to Visit Nice
Nice enjoys fantastic weather throughout the year-round, making it a top vacation destination for all seasons. If you're looking to escape the cold weather, December offers mild temperatures in the mid-50s, perfect for a winter getaway. The spring and fall months are ideal for those who prefer great weather and fewer people, as crowds peak in June, July, and August.
I visited at the end of April, and although it wasn't warm enough to swim, the weather was fantastic and the crowds were very tolerable. Whether you want to explore the Mediterranean waters during the summer or enjoy a relaxing trip in the winter, Nice is a place I see us returning to for many more trips in the future.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to Nice?
Nice is easily accessible by air, with an international airport offering flights from major cities like Paris and the United States. Once there, the tram network is a convenient way to get around the city, or you can opt for a rental car if you prefer more flexibility.
Is it easy to explore Nice by public transport?
Yes! The tram system in Nice is very user-friendly and helps you get around the main attractions easily. You can also rent a bike or walk to explore the city and nearby spots.
Are the beaches in Nice free to visit?
Nice has both public and private beaches. Public beaches are free, though they are made of pebbles and rocks instead of sand, so it's a good idea to bring plastic water shoes. Private beaches require an admission price and additional fees for amenities like lounge chairs and umbrellas.
What is the best time to visit Nice?
Nice is a year-round destination. For mild weather and fewer crowds, the spring and fall months are perfect. December offers a cold escape with temperatures in the mid-50s. The peak crowds are from June to August.
What are some must-see attractions in Nice?
Some of the top attractions include the Promenade des Anglais, La Colline du Château for stunning views, the Cours Saleya market in the Old Town, Musée Matisse, Chagall Museum, and nearby places like Saint Paul de Vence.
Conclusion
Nice, with its fantastic weather, stunning beaches, and central location on the French Riviera, is undoubtedly the perfect base for exploring this beautiful region. Whether you're interested in visiting iconic towns like Cannes and Monaco, relaxing on the Mediterranean coast, or diving into its rich art and culture, Nice has something for everyone. Its easy accessibility via air and train, combined with a convenient tram system, makes it an ideal spot for a memorable French getaway. Whether visiting for a weekend break or a longer vacation, Nice will not disappoint.