24 Best Things To Do In Nice, France

Nice is located in the bright and beautiful French Riviera and has always been a favorite vacation spot in France. It used to be the regional capital but is now known as a top destination in the South of France.

This port town is also a favorite among artists. Its turquoise waters have inspired the likes of Matisse to Chagall, who both have museums in the city..

More than its location and surrounding beauty, there’s a lot going on in Nice that makes for a perfect South of France holiday.

Headed to Nice soon? Here are thirteen of the best things to do in Nice, France.

24 Best Things To Do In Nice, France

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• Paris To Nice Transport Options
• How To Get To Nice from Paris

1. Explore Vieux Nice – the Old Town

Start your Nice holiday and get a feel of the city by exploring Vieux Nice – its old town area. Located between the Quai des Etats Unis and Place Massena, a stroll here is the best thing to do in Nice to soak in the atmosphere.

Wander through the narrow lanes and check out the architecture, the colorful neighborhoods, and the shops. This area is a fun place to shop for Provencal products such as lavender soap, olive oil, and touristy trinkets.

When you feel like relaxing a bit, stop for some ice cream at the Place Rossetti. This is the central part of Vieux Nice where you can sit by the fountain while enjoying the views of the nearby Cathedral Sainte Reparate.

2. Check out the Baroque Architecture of Nice

While you’re in the Old Town area, be sure to take in the sights and especially the architecture. The style is predominantly Baroque, which is excessive yet wonderfully ornate.

This architectural style dates from the end of the 16th century to the end of the 18th century. Marveling at the city’s impressive architecture is one of the more satisfying activities to do in Nice.

Some of the buildings you should see are the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, which is considered as one of the top Baroque churches in the world and the pretty pastel-colored  Eglise de Gésu at 12 Rue Droite.

3. Palais Lascaris

Constructed in 1648 for the aristocratic Lascaris-Ventimiglia family, the Palais Lascaris is both a museum and historic monument.

The interiors are quite luxurious — with an elaborate staircase, frescos, and luxe salons. There’s also a variety of musical instruments on display that’s a definite must-see. Walk through the hallways and admire its stylish decor.

A visit here is one of the best things to do in Nice to get a glimpse of the opulent life a few centuries ago.

Opening Hours:

Every day except Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission Fee:

Individual ticket: 10€

Guided Tour:

Individuals – 6€
Groups – 82€ (15-20 participants)

Contact Information:

Address:15, rue Droite 06300 Nice, France

Phone: 04 93 62 72 40

Email:palais.lascaris@ville-nice.fr

4. Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau)

Castle Hill is about 92 meters above sea level and is the highest point in the city. This is where you can see the ruins of Chateau de Nice. The chateau used to he a military citadel, that was eventually destroyed in the early 1799s by Louis XIV.

Apart from the ruins, Castle Hill also offers breathtaking views over the bay. This is easily one of the most popular places to visit in Nice abs it’s easy to see why.

The gardens here are also worth spending more time on especially during summer.

5. Place Massena

Another unmissable place to see in Nice is the Place Massena, located in the city center.

This is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll, where you can wander through the lush Massena gardens and marvel at beautiful fountains.

Stay here until the evening and watch as these fountains light up after dark. Place Massena is also another great place to shop in Nice, as there’s a good mix of designer stores and traditional French boutiques.

6. Promenade des Anglais

Being a coastal city, one of the best things to do in Nice is a walk along the waterfront.

The 7-kilometer Promenade des Anglais is lined with palm trees and is located by the ocean side. Enjoy views of the sparkling Mediterranean, observe the activities in one of the beaches, or enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants.

The Promenade introduces you to another aspect of life in this beautiful French city. It’s a lovely place to visit any time of the day but it’s best to go early as it’s less crowded or late afternoon to catch the sunset.

7. Musee Marc Chagall

The artist Marc Chagall is of French and Russian heritage and regarded as one of the most popular Jewish artists of the twentieth century! He is best known for his stunning work with stained glass, as well as his huge paintings and modernist style.

Marc Chagall is also famous for his stunning biblical paintings. Be sure to visit this museum when in Nice, as it’s quite an experience viewing his work. Look closely and check out the amazing detail in his works. Musee Marc Chagall is among those places to visit in Nice that one shouldn’t miss.

Opening Hours:

From November to April
from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

From May to October
from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm

Admission Fee:

Including access to the permanent collection, temporary exhibition and audioguide (French, English, Italian, German, Russian, Japanese, Chinese and Spanish)

Full rate: €8
Reduced rate: €6
Groups rate (minimum 10 persons): €6.50

+ €2 increased price during the exhibitions

Free for visitors under 26 (EU citizens or visitors with EU visas and long residence in EU), the disabled (MDPH or Cotorep card) teachers (valid education pass) beneficiaries of a number of welfare benefits and for all on the first Sunday of each month – audioguide: + €2

Contact Information:

Address: Musée national Marc Chagall 36, avenue Docteur Ménard – 06000 Nice
Phone:+ 33 (0) 4 93 53 87 20

8. Musée Matisse

Located in the trendy Cimiez district is the Musée Matisse, one of the coolest places to see in Nice.

Before moving to  Cimiez, Matisse lived in an apartment in the Cours Saleya. His Cimiez residence was in the swanky Regina building, now known for its luxurious vacation rentals.

The Musée Matisse is located inside a 17th-century Genoese villa and houses a collection of Matisse’s work ranging from the 1890s (such as  “Nature Morte Aux Livres”) to the early 1950s. This is a lovely museum to visit and you don’t have to be an art buff to appreciate the collections.

Matisse is known for his use of color so expect a literal feast for the senses.

Opening Hours:

Museum open daily except on Tuesdays

From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from November 1st to April 30th

From 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from May 2nd to October 31st

Admission Fee:

Individual Ticket – 10€
Access to all municipal museums and galleries for 24 hours

7 days individual Ticket – 20€
Access to all municipal museums and galleries for 7 days

Group Ticket – 8€ per person
(from 10 people)
Access to all municipal museums and galleries for 24 hours

Free tickets: proof required
Children under age 18 and students, unemployed persons, disabled civilians
and war veterans with one accompanying person each, Museum curators,
Journalists, Teachers (Pass Education card), Tour Guides

Contact Information:

Address:164, avenue des Arènes de Cimiez 06000 Nice.

Phone:(+33) (0) 4 93 81 08 08

Email:musee.matisse@ville-nice.fr

9. Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas

It’s probably strange to find a Russian church in the French Riviera but there’s one and it’s among the best things to see in Nice.

It was constructed during the reign of Czar Nicholas II and has been a top Nice attraction with its brilliant domes and spires since 1912.

This church is quite unmissable,  perhaps a little out of place but it works well with the mostly Baroque structures in Nice. This eye-catching structure is located on Avenue Nicolas-II.

Opening Hours:

Daily from 9:00 am- 6:00pm

Admission Fee:

Free

Contact Information:

Address: Cathédrale St. Nicolas Avenue Nicolas II 06000 Nice – France

Phone:+33 9 81 09 53 45

Email:cathedrale.nice@gmail.com

10. Cimiez

If you’re already visiting the Matisse Museum, you might as well look around the neighborhood where it is located.

Cimiez always makes it to those lists of the best places to visit in Nice. This fashionable neighborhood is home to a variety of interesting attractions.

There are the remains of a Roman settlement surrounding the Matisse Museum, or the 16th-century Franciscan Monastery and Museum.

The latter is among the popular places in Cimiez because of its gardens and masterpieces by the famous Niçoise artist Ludovic Bréa.

Across the Matisse Museum, you’ll find the imposing Regina building. This was where Matisse used to live and is now a posh apartment building,

11. Visit one of the beaches in Nice

You cannot be in Nice and the French Riviera without spending some time on the beach. The shores here are pebbly and rocky instead of sandy. Enjoy a relaxing walk or a picnic with a view of the sparkling blue waters.

You may choose to hang out at a public beach or splurge a bit on a private resort. The best public and private beaches in Nice are actually located right next to each other.

A most recommended private beach is the Plage Beau Rivage across from the Beau Rivage Hotel. Meanwhile, one of the most popular public beaches in Nice is the free La Plage Publique de Beau Rivage, which is just beside Plage Beau Rivage.

12. Parc du Mont Boron

Take a break from exploring the busy streets of Nice and enjoy a nature hike at Parc du Mont Boron.  Located in the eastern part of the city, Parc du Mont Boron has over seven miles of hiking trails.

There are trails for every fitness level so you get to decide which one to take. The trails range from easy walks that last for an hour to long, strenuous hikes that take an entire day to finish.

This is the ideal thing to do in Nice if you want to enjoy the views and the huge crowds, and here, they’re quite spectacular. The scenery along the way and the sights from the summit are truly worth it.

13. Cours Saleya Market

The sprawling Cours Saleya is a daily fruit and vegetable market that runs through the Old Town. This is the most popular market and easily among the best Nice attractions.

If you’re into classic films, the market was also featured in Hitchcock‘s “To Catch a Thief”. Spend a few hours here, or even an entire day as the market activity never stops.

Check out fruits and vegetables in the morning, the flowers in the afternoon, and enjoy snacks in between. Be sure to try some Corsican cheeses and charcuterie, or the infamous socca (a chickpea flour crepe).

In the evening, bistros and cafes move their tables to this area so you can also enjoy dinner and drinks.

14. Visit La promenade du Paillon

Nice’s Promenade du Paillon was designed and put up as a botanical garden. It was named after the river of the same name, Paillon.

It was once a furious torrent, but now it flows below through Nice in the form of a canal. The Promenade du Paillon was built on the old riverbed after it was emptied.

The Promenade du Paillon is a great spot for kids, with swings, climbing structures, and seesaws located throughout.

Large wooden sea animals urge you to play and have a good time. A trip to the Promenade du Paillon is thus ideal for every member of the family and evidence that a living space for all has been developed here.

15. Roam at Avenue Jean Medecin

Avenue Jean Médecin is situated in the middle of Nice, France. It’s ideal for shopaholics because the entire stretch is lined with stores and businesses. This is the most renowned street in the province, and it is crowded all day.

This street runs through the train station and leads to the Promenade des Anglais through the old town.

So, in addition to going for a walk, you may treat yourself to a variety of things. Apart from a couple of trams which operate every now and again, there is no major traffic on this street. You may also satisfy your appetite because this location has a choice of restaurants.

16. See the Animals of the Parc Phoenix

If you’re searching for activities to do with kids in South France, the Park Phoenix is an excellent choice. The zoo is located on the outer edges of Nice in a huge wood near the Nice airport. There is a massive lake with fountains, in addition to a massive greenhouse featuring tropical plants.

To be honest, even though I’m still within city limits, I feel like I’m in the middle of nowhere. There are several species to see, including lizards, parrots, and swans. The park is well set out, with several attractive shaded walks, fountains, and picnic areas.

17. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC)

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has a bold architecture that is built to house the works and achievements of several outstanding artists.

The museum, which consists of a four-footed arch covering the Peillon subterranean channel on one end and the old Route Nationale 7 on the other side, is placed in the center of the city, helping to reconcile two important features of Nice’s urban structure.

The museum, which has over 1,250 works of art by over 200 artists, provides an in-depth account of modern and contemporary art spanning 1950 to the present day.

Children and teenagers can also appreciate the work of art. MAMAC facilitates school group trips, among other things.

Every Sunday morning, instructors, artists, and scholars on the reservation welcome guests for a guided tour. It is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day except Monday.

18. Pay Respect at Notre Dame Basilica of Nice

The cathedrals of Paris and Angers influenced Nice’s grandest church. This neo-gothic structure is in the city’s center, on the extremely popular Avenue Jean Médecin.

The Notre Dame de Nice was created by the renowned architect Louis Lenormand, who was also in charge of building the Monaco Cathedral. This church is distinguished by two nearly rebellious square towers.

Because of its exceptional acoustics, Notre Dame de Nice has been utilized not just for religious services but also for musical performances.

All year long, orchestral, choral, and organ performances, along with the Heures Musicales de Notre Dame arranged by the basilica, provide spectacular aural experiences inside the colossal cathedral.

19. Make your way to Opera de Nice

The Opéra de Nice was erected in 1885 on the site of an earlier theatre that existed for nearly a century. The Opera Nice is a historic landmark within a short walk from the iconic Place Masséna.

It has now become a meeting spot for the residents of Nice, who are still awestruck by its architectural grandeur. Its amphitheater can seat over 900 people for stunning musical presentations of modern works or reconstructions of traditional acts.

20. Explore Albert 1st Garden

The Albert Garden represents one of Nice’s oldest parks. Greenery, fountains, sculptures, works of art, as well as plant varieties, delight the residents of Nice and visitors who come here to sunbathe.

A massive monument of a winged Victory situated above its southern entrance commemorated the County of Nice’s admission to France. Many more monuments have been placed within the park throughout the years.

Nowadays, the Albert Garden, located in the center of the park, accommodates a variety of cultural activities. Throughout the year, the Book Festival and several events are held there.

21. Honor at the War Memorial

Nice’s war memorial is massive and impressive. It was planned to be built on the slope of the Old City hill, in close proximity to the sea and the harbor, so that no one could miss it.

It’s a large 32-meter-high structure with columns and a temple-like design to honor the memories of Nice residents who perished during the war. A ceremony commemorating their memories is now conducted on the 11th of November and the 8th of May.

22. Witness Historical Sculptures at the Museum of Fine Arts

The Nice Museum of Fine Arts is situated in a mansion built for a Ukrainian princess. It mostly exhibits Impressionism paintings, as well as sculptures and ceramics.

The exhibits at the museum are displayed on two levels. In the old winter garden, on the ground level, directly beyond the cash registers.

The Promenade des Anglais connects the city center to the Nice Museum of Fine Arts. The signs directing visitors to the museum emphasize the importance of descending from the Promenade.

23. Go to Gairaut Waterfall

To commemorate the construction of the Vésubie canal, the Gairaut waterfall was built in the 19th century near a wooden mountain lodge.

The waterfall, influenced by Austrian scenery, was created in 1883 during the popularity of central European spas such as Baden Baden in Germany. They built a rustic artificial rock wall including a huge waterfall, both of which had a useful goal: oxygenating the water before it was distributed throughout the city.

While the surrounding environment, with caverns and ponds, seems a little artificial, the panoramas back to Nice City are stunning. It is well worth seeing.

24. Shop ’till you Drop at the Liberation Market

If you like the relaxed atmosphere of local markets, you’ll appreciate the Liberation market. Market homeowners, seafood traders, and other food producers in Nice and its neighboring districts put up their stalls in the first minutes of the morning.

Breathe in the fragrances and relish the flavors; it’s an homage to Nice and its environs. An encouragement to savor life’s better things.

Don’t miss out on the Halles Gourmandes de la Gare du Sud. This old structure has been completely refurbished and now houses a food court with roughly thirty distinct street-food vendors and restaurants providing all varieties of cuisine in a pleasant, welcoming environment.

Where to Stay in Nice

Hostel Lyonnais

Location: 20 Rue de Russie, 06000 Nice, France

Hostel Lyonnais is conveniently located in the heart of Nice and offers free WiFi and a communal lounge. The property is adjacent to numerous well-known sites, including Plage Blue Beach (1.2 kilometers), Avenue Jean Medecin (290 meters), and the Russian Orthodox Cathedral (1.32 km).

Some apartments at the hotel include balconies with city views. Some rooms have a kitchenette including a fridge and a cooktop.

Price per Night:

• $19 – $55

Amenities:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Free WiFi
• Air conditioning
• Daily housekeeping

Mixed Dormitory Room For 1 (1 night): $19 Price + $1 taxes and charges

Notable Inclusions:

• 3 bunk beds
• Shared dormitory room
• Private bathroom
• Shower

Hotel Le Negresco

Location: 37 Promenade Des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France

In Nice, the Hotel Le Negresco views the seaside and the Promenade des Anglais. There is complimentary internet access and a hotel-owned fitness center.

Every accommodation and suite is distinctively designed with antique furnishings and has air conditioning. Rooms also have a flat-screen TV along with a private bathroom. Every morning, a delicious buffet breakfast is given in La Rotonde restaurant.

The British-style pub serves snacks and beverages, while the Michelin-starred Le Chantecler restaurant serves gourmet meals. Guests of Hotel Le Negresco can pay extra for admission to a private beach location.

Price per Night:

• $356 – $3,527

Amenities:

• 2 restaurants
• Beachfront
• Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
• Bar
• Private beach area
• Fabulous breakfast

Deluxe Suite with Sea View For 2 (1 night): $3,527 Price + $4 taxes and charges

Notable Inclusions:

• 1 extra-large double bed
• 80 m²
• Balcony
• Sea view
• Air conditioning
• Private bathroom
• Flat-screen

Nice Travel Tips

Think about getting a Musees Pass

If you intend to visit numerous museums in Nice, get a Pass Musées 3 Jours via the Internet or at the tourist information office.

The pass, which costs $16.19 and is good for three days, includes access to all city museums and galleries. Just one museum entrance charges $5.40 or $10.79, depending on the institution, so you only must attend a handful to make the pass worthwhile.

Save your bikinis for the beach

Avoid walking around the city in revealing beachwear or bare-chested. Dress like one would when visiting a non-coastal city away from the beach. Comfortable shirts as well as loose skirts or baggy shorts are ideal for summer.

Don’t forget your sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. While on the beach, toplessness is entirely fine, and locals aren’t hesitant about it.

Provide your market basket

Carrying your market basket, called “panier” in French, is a widespread tradition among visitors and locals alike in Nice, France.

By carrying your market basket when shopping in Nice, you not only help with environmental efforts but also immerse yourself more fully in local culture, ensuring the visit is more authentic and pleasurable.

Nice’s tap water is safe to drink.

At Nice, tap water is safe to drink, and purchasing a jug of tap water instead of bottled water at restaurants saves money and minimizes plastic usage.

Carry a water bottle for refilling on your way throughout town. There are public drinking fountains throughout the two terminals of Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport as well as throughout the city. There are also taps in accessible shower blocks located on the Promenade des Anglais.

Beware of pickpockets in Nice

Keep your wits around you as you would in any other metropolis. Pickpockets may be seen in touristy places such as Liberation Market, as well as on trams and buses entering town from the airport. Personal possessions should not be left unattended on the beach; they are safer inside your hotel.

Related Read: Best Hotels To Stay In Nice

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