Exploring the picturesque streets and gorgeous landscapes of Nice France: A travel guide for wanderlust seekers.

This stunning crown jewel of Nice is also the capital of the French Riviera — where the Mediterranean meets the foothills of the French Alps. Nice is a perfect hub for exploring the neighboring wonders of the region. A mere 8 miles away lies the glitz and glamour of Monaco, while Italy is just 19 miles to the east. And then, of course, lavender fields, wine and so much more to explore.
We spent a glorious 2-week stay in Nice France in mid-fall. With a darling little rented Fiat in Italy, we drove from Bergamo, across to Verona, then down through Milan, Modena (where I met the amazing chef Massimo Boturra!), then on to the Italian Riviera, enjoying Portofino along the way and rounding up the coast through Genoa to end up in Nice. If you love driving, this is a spectacular way to take in this breathtaking part of the world. Some of the Corniche Roads can be a bit daunting – very James Bond-y with cliffs just feet from the road’s edge, and in fact the area where the Princess Grace of Monaco died (more on that stretch of road later).
This comprehensive Nice France travel guide is your compass to navigating this picturesque city, providing insights on must-see attractions, transportation options, and delightful dining experiences.

What is Nice France known for?

• Mediterranean Beauty: Nice is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, complete with pebble beaches (wear water shoes!) and clear azure-blue waters (also known as the Côte D’Azur). The city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it a popular destination for beachgoers.
• Cuisine: Nice is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes the famous Niçoise salad, socca (a chickpea pancake), and fresh Mediterranean seafood. Visitors can savor the flavors of Provencal and Mediterranean cooking in the city’s many restaurants.
• Cannes Film Festival: The Cannes Film Festival, one of the world’s most prestigious film events, is located just a short distance from Nice.
• Celebrity Lifestyle: Its allure as a playground for the rich and famous began with the arrival of the first railway in Nice in 1864. This led to the construction of luxury hotels, casinos, and attractions that drew visitors from across Europe. From renowned artists like Monet and Picasso to royalty such as Queen Victoria and Tsar Alexander II, the French Riviera became a hub for the elite. After World War I, Americans like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Henry James discovered the region, while Coco Chanel popularized tanning in Paris on its beaches.
  
• Promenade des Anglais: The “Prom” for short is an iconic waterfront promenade that stretches along the Bay of Angels. It’s famous for its beautiful views, palm trees, and the distinct blue chairs where people relax and enjoy the scenery. A continuous bike path spans the entire length, occasionally intersecting with runners, roller skaters, and fellow sports enthusiasts. So BE careful!
• Cultural Heritage: Nice boasts a rich cultural heritage with its historic Old Town (Vieux Nice) featuring narrow streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant markets. The city has numerous museums, including the Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum.
• Carnival of Nice: The Carnival of Nice is one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world. It features extravagant parades, colorful floats, and elaborate costumes, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
• Art and Culture: The city has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with various festivals, concerts, and events taking place throughout the year. It has also been an inspiration for many artists, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall.
• International Tourism: Nice has long been a popular destination for international tourists, drawing people with its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and Mediterranean charm. For all of these reasons, Nice, France is also more expensive than many other European cities.

Beyond Nice ~ Short Days Trips and Coastal Gems

This may seem a bit contradictory, but you really need to visit all of the close-by neighboring cities and then explore Nice. Trust me, you’ll understand the region so much more and appreciate the French Riviera as a whole. These key coastal cities near Nice France include Antibes, Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Cannes, and Monaco, among others. To get acquainted with the French Riviera, I highly recommend doing a full-day tour with an experienced local nice Nice guide. It was great having a professional, English and French-speaking driver to navigate the roads, give us insights, and not worry about parking. After this, we felt well-equipped to venture out on our own and revisit the areas we really loved. We covered six cities north and south of Nice as well as Monaco. (see map above) Tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off and some time to spend in the more interesting cities like Monaco and Antibes.
👉🏼 Start Your Stay with a Full-Day Tour

Would You Prefer to visit each city on Nice’s coast on your own? Here’s a short guide on what to expect:
Most of these coastal cities are easy to get to by car, train, or bus and in a pinch, by taxi. A couple you can just walk to.

• Eze: Eze is all about the view. It’s situated at the top of the hill with additional climbing. It’s 7 miles from Nice. Eze has a gorgeous tropical and desert garden “Le Jardin Exotique” worth exploring as well. If you drive, take the Corniche Moyenne. Parking is across or down the street as there are no cars allowed within the actual precinct. There is a spectacular 5-star hotel La La Chèvre d’Or where you can have a coffee and croissant for around $20 USD.  Spend a couple of hours there in the morning before the crowds arrive.
  > Plan on 1-2 hours here and more if you stay for breakfast.
• Antibes: This was one of our favorite, quaint seaside cities and we returned a couple of times for the Picasso Museum, walks along the sea, fabulous open-air market, yacht viewing, and lovely Moules Frites (mussels with French Fries) at local restaurants. Excellent shopping as well. Adjacent to the market, there is an 11th-century church and the Picasso Museum. In 1946, renowned artist Pablo Picasso resided for six months in a 17th-century castle originally owned by the Grimaldi family, who had ties to the Monaco princely family. This historic site has been transformed into a museum, showcasing 245 works by Picasso. There are finer works in bigger museums, but the home is spectacular. Additionally, the Chapel of St. Bernardine of Siena (Chapelle Saint Bernardin, 14 Rue du Dr Rostan) stands as a beautifully restored 16th-century structure, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich architectural heritage. A short distance away, an intriguing chocolate cave awaits exploration. There is even an Absinthe bar and museum near the market as well.
  > Plan on 3-4 hours here.

• Villefranche-sur-Mer: you could spend a whole day here arriving by train from Nice France having lunch, exploring, and then walking back along the coast passing the tragic area where Princess Grace of Monaco was killed in a car accident. Exploring the ancient hillside town reveals a tapestry of history, culture, exquisite cuisine, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The Villefranche Old Town, with its picturesque winding alleys adorned with vibrant houses and blooming flowers, exudes a fairytale charm, transporting visitors to a captivating realm of enchantment within the glamorous French Riviera. Established in the 14th century, Villefranche, once a thriving maritime port within the County of Nice France boasts a rich history. Lovely restaurants along the water’s edge and tucked away in side streets.

There is a lovely path and road from Villefranche back into Nice. Extremely Picturesque, about 4 miles of easy to some elevation walking.  I use AllTrails wherever we hike, you can use this map as your guide. Click here

• Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a must-visit destination near Villefranche. It boasts two beautiful beaches, La Petite Afrique and the Baie des Fourmis. We did the AMAZING 1-and-a-half-hour sunset tour here and it was very romantic! Beaulieu-Marine provides various rental options for full or half-day trips, with or without a license. Experience the joy of sailing on electro-solar boats, designed for easy handling and accessible to everyone. Explore activities and water centers along the seaside port. The town, with its traditional charm, offers both calm and vibrancy. Enjoy clear waters, boat rentals, the Les Nuits Guitares festival, and the famous Villa Kerylos.
  > Spend a half or full day depending on your activities
• Cannes: We enjoyed walking around the marina and having lunch near the Coco Chanel boutique which is rumored to be the name of her Chanel No. 5, as the address is No. 5. Cannes is nestled along the Gulf of Napoule on the Côte d’Azur, Cannes, once a humble fishing village, has transformed into a glamorous destination. It draws a million tourists annually. Known globally for the Cannes Film Festival and the Palme d’Or, Cannes offers more than red-carpet events. Explore its charming streets, vibrant bistros, and hidden boutiques. Engage with the locals and immerse yourself in the town’s rich heritage. Easy to drive there from Nice, or take the train.
  > Plan on 3-4 hours here, longer if you visit their market and have a meal as well

• Monaco: According to the BBC, Monaco is the second-smallest independent state in the world. It exudes opulence at every turn. Luxury yachts line its port, the world’s priciest cars cruise its streets, and shop displays lack price tags. Beyond its lavish exterior, Monaco hosts an array of attractions and international events worth exploring. The town is charming, we suggest just walking around, having a bite in town, visiting the Prince’s Palace, playing a round at the casino, and visiting the Oceanographic Museum (about $20 USD) where visitors can interact with live sharks, explore a replica bathyscaphe, and enjoy a breathtaking Monaco and Monte-Carlo panorama from the building’s rooftop. Of course, there is the Famous Grand Prix and other high-ticket seasonal attractions. Easy to get to by car, bus or train. Parking structures even have their own roundabout!
  > Unless you’re a gambler, spend 2-3 hours here including the aquarium
• Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Like many of these coastal towns, it was once a tranquil fishing village, this coastal retreat transformed into a sought-after holiday destination in the early 20th century, attracting affluent families like those behind Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Renowned artists, including Jean Cocteau, left their artistic imprints at Villa Santo Sospir. Explore the area through a scenic 5-mile coastal path offering captivating views. Secluded beaches and hidden creeks invite relaxation, while water sports enthusiasts find ample opportunities. Key attractions include the picturesque port, the ancient Sainte-Hospice chapel featuring a striking bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild’s themed gardens, and cultural treasures like Musée des Coquillages and le musée Goetz-Boumeester. Villa Santo Sospir, adorned by Cocteau, adds a touch of artistic enchantment to this coastal haven.
  > The 5-mile drive will take under an hour, stop and enjoy the scenery along the way and the port

10 Top Things to Do While in Nice France

Nice is very walkable, not hilly, with paths and sidewalks in most areas. There are even water stations that offer SPARKLING WATER!!! However, if walking isn’t your preference, there are alternatives. Bikes are always a great option and you can even rent Pedego’s eBikes for an hour to a week! Plus Nice’s transportation is easy and cheap with trams, buses, taxis and Uber services. Buses and trams share the same ticket system. You can opt for a single ticket, a day pass, or a 10-ride multi-ticket for your convenience.

1. Explore the Old Town in Nice France

Every European town has an old town (also known as Vieux Nice) and this one does not disappoint!  There are charming shops, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and markets throughout the old town area.  It’s a relatively small town and easily walkable.
If you’ve done the Cours Saleya Market, then you’re already in the Old Town already. Or if you walked up Castle Hill and came down on the Prom side, you’re in Old Town. Allow 3-4 hours to stroll leisurely. Here are a few other places to see:

• Cathedral of St. Reparata (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate): Admire the colorful dome visible from Castle Hill. Inside, the 17th-century cathedral houses a reliquary with the remains of Saint Reparata, richly adorned with intricate decorations.
• Place Rossetti: A charming square graced by Nice Cathedral, offering a serene spot to relax.
• False Gate (la Porte Fausse): An exquisite passage leading to the newer part of the city, adorned with marble and a ceiling reminiscent of real gold.
• Lascaris Palace: A museum housed in a former aristocratic villa, showcasing a collection of ancient instruments.
• Other Churches and Squares: As you wander around, stop into the churches and city squares, each with its unique charm.

2. Climb Up To Castle Hill ~ La Colline du Château

Some of the BEST views of the city include Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels), the Nice Port, and even the Alps in the distance! There isn’t a castle anymore though — After enjoying every sumptuous meal we came across, the climb burned off those calories. You can do this leisurely on the backside from the Nice port, or from Nice’s Old Town side. I recommend going up one way and down the other. There is an elevator but we didn’t try it. There is also a lovely waterfall and cemetery along the way.

3. Promenade D’Anglais

For the people of Nice, the Promenade des Anglais, affectionately known as “La Prom,” stands at the heart of their city. Taking a leisurely stroll along this iconic promenade is a quintessential experience in Nice, providing a unique glimpse into local life. Enjoy the convenience of numerous benches and the city’s trademark blue chairs, perfect for a rest. Need refreshment? Head down to any beach, where you’ll find taps below the showers, offering drinkable water, and facilities are available on the Beau Rivage, Forum, and Fabron beaches, accessible directly from the Promenade. Don’t miss all of the sculptures along the path!

Tip ~ If you plan on swimming, be sure to wear water shoes. The rocks are painful!

4. Cours Saleya Market

We went to the fresh open market every day! Gosh, I wish we had this at home in San Diego. It’s a great place to get gifts, especially spices which are easy to pack. Buy the Herbs de Provence. They come in plastic test tubes. A visit to the Cours Saleya markets in Nice, France, is a must for anyone exploring the French Riviera, especially food enthusiasts keen on Niçoise cuisine. Set against the backdrop of charming pastel buildings and with a view of the Castle Hill waterfall, the wide pedestrian-only Marché Cours Saleya in Old Town Nice stands out as one of France’s most picturesque markets.
Nestled in the heart of Vieux Nice (Old Nice), Cours Saleya hosts a variety of markets, including the vibrant Flower Market, the fresh Fruit and Vegetable Market, the intriguing Nice Antique Market, and the enchanting Artisanal Night Market, all within a captivating historical setting. Also, it’s lined with fabulous cafés so you can start with breakfast and then do the market or vice versa.

5. Visit the Old Port

The Old Port, situated in the heart of Old Nice, stands as one of Nice’s most delightful attractions and a perfect spot for a leisurely walk. Bursting with vibrant hues and bustling activities, Nice’s Old Port boasts approximately ten quays and hosts diverse markets showcasing local goods. This is where you can start your climb of castle Hill.
Constructed in the 18th century, this port serves as a vital hub in the French Riviera. Nice’s port is not only a hub of maritime activities but also a picturesque setting where visitors can savor the authentic Mediterranean atmosphere, and oggle over the mega yachts.

6. Learn Niçoise Cooking!

There are several classes that offer authentic Niçoise cooking.  Ours also included an introduction to the Cours Saleya Market where we selected the fresh ingredients for the class. Recipes are based on what’s available and so focused on the quality of the ingredients. In fact, there are some crazy rules about what is and isn’t authentic. Like Niçoise salad can only have raw veggies… didn’t know that. You’ll learn a lot!

7. Chagall Museum (and others)

Nice’s museums offer a diverse range of experiences, immersing visitors in the worlds of influential modern artists. From French avant-garde contemporary artworks to American pop art classics, these museums are not only art havens but also architectural gems, located within stately mansions, homes, and palaces.

• Musée National Marc Chagall: A treasure trove of biblical masterpieces.
• Musée Matisse: Home to a collection from one of France’s most famous artists, offering insights into his genius.
• MAMAC: A hub of modern and contemporary art, showcasing cutting-edge creativity.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts Jules-Chéret: A haven for fine art enthusiasts, displaying exquisite works.
• Galerie Lympia: A contemporary gem, providing a fresh perspective on the art scene.

Additionally, art enthusiasts can explore Picasso’s influence in Antibes, adding another layer to the vibrant artistic landscape of the region.

8. Enjoy Nice’s Beaches and Dine Alfresco

When we were last there in the fall, the water was still relatively warm (by California standards). However, I never get over those pebbles (galets)!!! Without swimming shoes, the experience feels like the Little Mermaid’s pins. (all of the local shops sell them if you don’t to pack your own) There are wonderful restaurants, cabanas, showers and more if you decide on a beach day.  Walk “La Prom” and pick a spot near facilities that isn’t overly crowded.

Fines: Don’t collect the galets as souvenirs, it can result in a fine of $40. There are no designated nude beaches; visitors are required to be decently dressed, although toplessness is allowed within beach areas only. Strolling along the Promenade des Anglais in a bathing suit can also lead to a $40 USD fine. Alcohol is prohibited between 8pm and 5am.

9. Russian Orthodox Cathedral

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral, known as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, is a significant landmark in Nice, France. Built in the early 20th century, it stands as one of the most important Orthodox structures outside Russia. This cathedral, a result of the Royal Family’s efforts to cater to the spiritual needs of the growing Russian community in Nice, showcases a blend of the Old Russian architectural style with modern elements. Notable features include a Greek cross plan with five domes representing Jesus and the four evangelists, creating a visually striking and spiritually meaningful space. Inside, visitors can admire a splendid iconostasis, a masterpiece crafted in Russia, adding to the cathedral’s allure and cultural significance. The Cathedral of Saint Nicholas serves as a testament to architectural brilliance and enduring cultural connections, inviting visitors to explore its unique blend of tradition and innovation.
> This is a relatively easy 20-minute walk from Old Town, Nice. It’s free to enter and is quite small so it won’t take long to tour. Do check the hours before you go.

10. Take a Boat Ride from Nice France

Being a coastal city, ferries provide an excellent option for sightseeing, getting from city-to-city or the islands of which there are several. Nice to Monaco is a lovely way to spend the day.
👉🏼 Check out the boat ride options — keep in mind, these change seasonally!
Further Afield ~ By Car, Train or Tour
There are several gorgeous cities to visit from Nice. If you have a car, pick one or two of these to make your visit to the French Riviera even more memorable. If I were to pick two, I’d say Grasse or Saint-Paul de Vence and the Gorge du Verdon.

Saint-Paul de Vence

The picturesque old town of Saint-Paul de Vence resembles a nestled haven when viewed from a distance. Perched atop a small elliptical hill and encircled by towering walls, this village stands as a captivating gem on the French Riviera.
Situated near Nice, between Cagnes-sur-Mer and Vence, Saint-Paul de Vence, often simply referred to as Saint Paul, boasts a rich medieval heritage. Since the 1920s, it has evolved into a thriving hub for artists. Renowned figures like Picasso, Dufy, Matisse, and Marc Chagall found inspiration within these walls, creating timeless masterpieces. Chagall, in particular, resided in Saint Paul for 19 years and now rests in the local cemetery, a testament to the village’s enduring artistic legacy.

Gorges du Verdon

We rented a car to drive to the Gorges du Verdon – as it’s not accessible by public transportation, though there are fabulous day tours that will take you there. It is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Europe, and it’s a breathtaking river canyon located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region about two and a half hours inland of Nice. Carved by the Verdon River, it is one of the most stunning natural attractions in France, renowned for its turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing, immersing themselves in the unparalleled beauty of this natural wonder. There are also some incredible little towns in and out of the Verdon Gorge with fresh, seasonal dishes. Plan a whole day here.

Grasse

Grasse, a charming town located just north of Cannes and within easy reach from Nice, is a highly sought-after day-trip destination in the French Riviera region. Often referred to as the perfume capital of the world and the birthplace of renowned fragrances, Grasse offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage their senses and immerse themselves in the art of perfumery. During our visit, arriving by rental car, we spent a delightful day exploring its medieval streets, experiencing the captivating aromas of its famous perfumeries, embracing the ambiance of small-town France, and even creating our own personalized perfume.
👉🏼 Enjoy a half-day tour in Grasse by booking here
👉🏼 Book a Full-Day Tour including Gorge du Verdon and the Lavender Fields

Do a Wine Tour

Did you know that the expansive Côtes de Provence appellation represents 60% of Provençal production, and is conveniently accessible from Draguignan, Toulon, Marseille, and even Saint Tropez? Within this region, you’ll encounter not only renowned rosé wine producers but also creators of robust reds and aromatic, fruity whites. Embark on a full-day Côtes de Provence wine tour from Nice, exploring three acclaimed wineries where you can indulge in a diverse range of exquisite wines. Alternatively, if you have a car, there are a couple of Côtes de Provence wineries perched on the hills surrounding Nice, offering guided tours and tastings of their exceptional wines.

St. Tropez

It’s about a 2.5-hour (62 miles-ish) drive southwest along the coast from Nice. Saint-Tropez gained international fame after 1950, notably due to Brigitte Bardot’s villa purchase. Today, it’s renowned for its chic beach clubs, including Nikki Beach (really fun) and Club 55, lining the scenic Bay of Pampelonne. The harbor, where multimillion-dollar yachts of the global elite dock, adds to the town’s allure and exclusivity. Take the ferry — From May to October, Trans Côte d’Azur ferries offer a daily voyage from Nice Port to Saint-Tropez, departing at 9 a.m. and returning at 7 p.m. The 2.5-hour journey might seem lengthy during windy or cloudy days, but in the bright summer sun, it transforms into a delightful and picturesque experience, providing a refreshing change of pace. You can also do a day tour which includes the ferry.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence (pronounced as X) embodies the charm of a lively French town, boasting a university established six centuries ago during a golden era. It captures the quintessential Provencal essence with its sunlit squares adorned with cafes, tree-lined broad avenues, and a rich historical center featuring boutiques and charming houses, all punctuated by numerous cafes, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It’s worth staying at least a night here and doing a walking tour to get the most from your visit. There are also bike tours, tasting and market tours, wine tours, and lavender field tours which are seasonal.
👉🏼 Book the best three-hour walking tour of Aix
👉🏼 Click here for the BEST wine and food tours, including the lavender fields (seasonal)
👉🏼 For the best stay, book your hotel in Aix en Provence here

Marseille

It’s less than an hour’s drive from Aix. Marseille is situated at the western tip of the Cote d’Azur and holds significant historical importance as a port city dating back to 500 BC. As France’s second-largest city, it offers a rich tapestry of heritage, diverse culture, and vibrant energy, making it a captivating destination. Its international character is shaped by its role as a critical trading port with Africa and a substantial US Navy presence, especially around the bustling harbor area. While not primarily focused on tourism, Marseille’s lively atmosphere, filled with the sights, sounds, and scents of a bustling port city, provides a unique and unforgettable experience. Spend a day there, enjoy lunch and a tour.
👉🏼 Enjoy a walking tour of Marseille
👉🏼 For the best stay, book your hotel in Marseille here

Where to Stay in Nice France

There are so many choices from super high-end to studio apartments in town.  Since we prefer to walk, even if we do have a car, I’d recommend staying within the city boundaries of Nice — this way, you’ll also get the most of your time and find places along the route.

👉🏼 Luxury High End: Hotel Le Negresco: Over 100 years old, is a renowned architectural marvel and luxurious landmark, offering opulent accommodations and unparalleled views of the Mediterranean Sea. Just across from the Prom. Even if you’re not staying there, do stop by to admire the stunning architecture.
👉🏼 Mid-Level Luxury: Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel: Situated in Nice, this 18th-century building is close to the iconic Promenade des Anglais and downtown Nice. Breakfasts are included and the rooms are stunning!
👉🏼 Reasonable and Close to Everything: Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice: We love ApartHotels, all the conveniences of a hotel, even breakfasts (optional) plus often laundry and kitchenette. Great for families as well.
👉🏼 Hostel Option: Hotel Monsigny: Private, AC rooms, close to the city center including breakfasts. This charming hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the Promenade des Anglais and the beach.

Best Places to Eat in Nice France

With Nice’s proximity to Italy, and right on the ocean, you almost can’t go wrong dining in Nice. The Michelin Guide is also very helpful but can be a bit confusing as well. Explore the vibrant mosaic of pastel-striped stalls at Nice’s morning market in Cours Saleya, and you’ll gain a swift insight into Niçoise cuisine: indulge in socca, thin chickpea flour pancakes seasoned with pepper; savor pan bagnat, a salad niçoise embraced by an olive oil-infused sandwich roll; and relish pissaladière, a delectable onion tart (my fave!!) adorned with anchovies and black olives.
Here are some of the nicest Nice options we discovered, some by referral and others by accident:
La Storia right on Cours Saleya is a charming restaurant that offers a delectable fusion of Italian and French cuisines, creating a unique dining experience for patrons seeking diverse and flavorful dishes in the heart of the city.
Bistrot d’Antoine is a culinary gem known for its delightful blend of traditional French flavors and inventive twists, providing diners with a memorable and authentic bistro experience in the heart of the city.
Le Chantecler, a culinary gem in Nice, (famous Negresco Hotel) delights diners with its exquisite Michelin-starred cuisine and elegant ambiance, offering a memorable fine dining experience on the French Riviera.
Pure & V is a clever linguistic twist in French, capturing the essence of pure dreaming! Vanessa Massé, the owner and an accomplished sommelière with an impressive background, stands unmatched in her ability to discover exceptional natural wines.
La Merenda is a beloved culinary institution renowned for its authentic Niçoise cuisine. This unassuming eatery offers a delightful menu featuring traditional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients, providing visitors with a genuine taste of the vibrant flavors of Nice.

Getting to Nice:

We drove leisurely from the Italian Riviera and it was fabulous!! Not so much though once we arrived in Nice where parking is difficult, tight, and expensive. It was great having the car though to explore cities inaccessible by public transportation like the Gorge du Verdon.
Other than driving, there are two main options:
By Plane:
Arriving at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is convenient. Despite its small size, navigating the airport is straightforward. After landing, take the tram into town, a journey that typically takes around 30-40 minutes. A helpful tip is to use the Nice Ticket app for hassle-free ticket purchases, saving both time and paper. From the airport to your accommodations, it’s easy to prebook a taxi.

By Train:
Nice boasts its own train station, Gare de Nice-Ville, located on the northern side of the downtown area. It’s within walking distance of most accommodations and destinations in the city. Tickets can be booked through SNCF’s website or Omio, where available seats often show before the schedule. Too much luggage? Take a taxi!

Visiting Nice France: FAQs

A few things to know before you go:

• Paying: We used Apple Pay, credit cards, and Euros from the ATM for tips without any issues. You don’t need a lot of Euros, maybe €20 per day at most.
• Dining: Niçoise cuisine is world-renowned. In Nice, culinary delights are a fusion of distinctive flavors found exclusively in this region, blending traditional Provençal and Niçoise cuisines with a prominent Italian influence. The local gastronomy revolves around seafood and fresh ingredients. These are just a few we tried, of course, there’s lots more to discover!
  • Moules et frites, a beloved dish in Nice, features succulent mussels paired with crispy fries, offering a taste of the Mediterranean Sea served in the heart of the French Riviera.
  • Socca, a staple street food in Nice, captures the essence of local cuisine. This thin, crusty chickpea pancake with a tender interior is a culinary gem specific to the region. I’d never had it before traveling here, pick one up on your market walk.
  • Salade Niçoise, a personal favorite of mine, is a delightful culinary experience. This classic salad features a vibrant mix of mesclun, tomatoes, radishes, onions, black olives, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, and anchovies, all generously dressed with olive oil.
  • Les Petits Farcis, a cherished Niçoise specialty, involves stuffing vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, and zucchini with a delectable mixture of ground meat, garlic, and bread crumbs. We made this in the cooking class as well, of the same name.
  • Ratatouille, the flavorful vegetable stew, originated in Nice, France, showcasing a medley of fresh Mediterranean ingredients cooked to perfection.
• Tipping: As in most European cities, it is not a must. Round up your bill, or add 10%. So if it’s €37, then round up to €40.
• Layering: Take a lightweight day-pack and layer. There was often a chill in the mornings which wore off mid-day and then got cooler in the evenings after the sun set.
• Water: Drinking tap water in Nice is perfectly safe, and opting for a carafe of tap water instead of bottled water in restaurants not only saves money but also helps cut down on plastic waste. Consider bringing your own reusable water bottle to refill while exploring the city. You’ll see that there are some sparkling water options too!

Is Nice a tourist trap?

No, Nice is not a tourist trap. Of course, it’s one of the most visited French cities, and some areas are more touristy than others, but you’ll also find locals in the same spots. Cannes and Monaco are far more touristy.

How many days should I spend in Nice?

Spend a minimum of three days in Nice, and if you have time, plan a day at least three of the other regions mentioned in the blog including Saint Paul de Vence, Grasse, and the Gorge du Verdon. Even go further east to enjoy the Italian Riviera!

Is Nice or Paris better?

These two cities are almost exactly the opposite so it’s hard to compare. If you want a chill, relaxing seaside vacation with great food, culture, and the lure of the Mediterranean, then visit Nice. If you want the bustle and excitement of a big city, including spectacular museums, dining, and a variety of cultures — more like New York, visit Paris. Here’s a suggestion if you have time, do both! Take the train from one to the other and enjoy both vibrant cities! There’s a reason why there’s an Autoroute du Soleil (highway of the sun)!

Is Nice safe?

Absolutely! Nice is very safe. Tourists can explore Nice without concerns, as France boasts a high safety score of 1.895 according to the 2022 Global Peace Index. The city maintains a low overall risk and crime rate, and incidents of violent crime are rare. Always be smart while traveling, don’t display wads of cash, keep your belongings close to you, and use hotel safes for valuables. Stay on lighted streets and don’t drink too much!

Should I rent a car?

Honestly, having a car while in Nice was a headache. We only used it to visit far away cities that were inaccessible by public transportation.  As I write this now from Barcelona, where we have no car — you don’t need one in a small city with good transportation options. If you do visit Gorge du Verdon, either rent a car for a day or two, and use the metro, train, bus or tours for all other transportation. We use Omio or Trainline to book almost all transportation and Discover Cars or RentalCars for car rentals. Note – when you find cars through an aggregator, don’t always go with the best price. Look at Google’s reviews of the company too, BEFORE booking.  I will not ever use Budget or Dollar. I prefer Sixt in Europe. Avis is also great.

Best Time To Visit Nice France

Late May and early fall are best. Nice boasts a warm winter climate, making it appealing even during the colder months, it predominantly thrives as a summer destination. Between June and August, the city buzzes with activity, drawing crowds from all corners. However, the shoulder seasons, with their milder weather and fewer visitors, provide excellent value for a visit. We traveled in October-November and it was perfect. A few cooler rainy days but fewer crowds, and more tour options. There are some amazing events in January and February with its Carnaval transforming the city into a colorful spectacle for two weeks. Personally, I’ll always recommend shoulder seasons. Don’t go during the Cannes Film Festival unless you want crazy high prices and lots of crowds!

Conclusion: Nice France: A travel guide for wanderlust seekers 2023

In conclusion, Nice France, is a Mediterranean gem city we’d gladly move to! It has everything for travelers and wanderlust seekers. Nice offers an enchanting blend of cultural richness, culinary delights, and breathtaking vistas. With its nearly year-round perfect weather, sun-kissed beaches, and quaint Old Town to the artistic allure of nearby villages like Antibes (our fave), every corner of Nice invites travelers on an unforgettable journey.
We LOVED the culinary scene, featuring delicacies like Niçoise salad and fresh seafood, and its vibrant markets and museums. Whether strolling the iconic Promenade des Anglais or embarking on day trips to Monaco or Grasse, every moment in Nice resonates with timeless charm and boundless discovery. You will thoroughly enjoy the hospitality and endless attractions!

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