Nice, France, is a dazzling coastal city gracing the sun-drenched French Riviera, known for its radiant seaside promenades, lively markets, and timeless elegance. With the sparkling Mediterranean as its backdrop, Nice offers visitors a rare combination of old-world glamour and effortless relaxation, whether you're lounging on a pebbly beach or wandering vibrant city streets. Its pastel buildings and turquoise sea serve as a painter’s palette that has inspired generations of artists, making the city feel both creative and effortlessly chic.
The famed Promenade des Anglais is the city’s star attraction, a palm-lined boulevard tracing the coastline, perfect for a morning stroll, cycling, or people-watching from a café terrace. In the labyrinthine lanes of Vieille Ville (the Old Town), you’ll find a feast for the senses—bustling flower and food markets at Cours Saleya, Provençal shops, and Baroque architecture. Art lovers flock to the Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall, while panoramic views await from Castle Hill, which rewards the climb with sweeping vistas of the coastline and terracotta rooftops.
Beyond the famous sights, Nice has a casual, welcoming atmosphere that blends southern French ease with cosmopolitan energy. Streets hum with the sounds of street musicians, laughter from outdoor patios, and the lively bustle of local markets. Dining is a highlight—sample traditional Niçoise cuisine such as socca, pissaladière, and fresh seafood, or linger over chilled rosé in a shaded courtyard. The city is also a gateway for day trips to glamorous Monaco, hilltop villages like Èze, and the rest of the Côte d’Azur.
Transportation is convenient, with efficient trams, buses, and trains connecting all of Nice and regional destinations. Lodging runs the gamut from opulent seaside hotels to quirky boutique guesthouses and self-catering apartments in the Old Town. Summer brings an energetic vibe and numerous festivals, but early spring and late autumn offer mild weather with fewer crowds, making it easy to appreciate the city’s beauty in a more relaxed setting.
The famed Promenade des Anglais is the city’s star attraction, a palm-lined boulevard tracing the coastline, perfect for a morning stroll, cycling, or people-watching from a café terrace. In the labyrinthine lanes of Vieille Ville (the Old Town), you’ll find a feast for the senses—bustling flower and food markets at Cours Saleya, Provençal shops, and Baroque architecture. Art lovers flock to the Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall, while panoramic views await from Castle Hill, which rewards the climb with sweeping vistas of the coastline and terracotta rooftops.
Beyond the famous sights, Nice has a casual, welcoming atmosphere that blends southern French ease with cosmopolitan energy. Streets hum with the sounds of street musicians, laughter from outdoor patios, and the lively bustle of local markets. Dining is a highlight—sample traditional Niçoise cuisine such as socca, pissaladière, and fresh seafood, or linger over chilled rosé in a shaded courtyard. The city is also a gateway for day trips to glamorous Monaco, hilltop villages like Èze, and the rest of the Côte d’Azur.
Transportation is convenient, with efficient trams, buses, and trains connecting all of Nice and regional destinations. Lodging runs the gamut from opulent seaside hotels to quirky boutique guesthouses and self-catering apartments in the Old Town. Summer brings an energetic vibe and numerous festivals, but early spring and late autumn offer mild weather with fewer crowds, making it easy to appreciate the city’s beauty in a more relaxed setting.
Expected Weekly Budget
$900–$1400 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais
- Explore the markets and alleyways of the Old Town (Vieille Ville)
- Visit the Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall
- Hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views
- Relax on the pebble beaches
- Shop and snack at Cours Saleya Market
- Take a day trip to Monaco or Villefranche-sur-Mer
- Enjoy Niçoise cuisine at a traditional bistro
Notable Sites
- Promenade des Anglais
- Vieille Ville (Old Town)
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
- Cours Saleya Market
- Musée Matisse
- Musée Marc Chagall
- Place Masséna
- Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
General Advice
Nice is a vibrant and welcoming city that rewards both relaxed wandering and planned exploration. The city is compact enough to enjoy on foot, but public transportation is affordable and efficient for longer trips. English is commonly understood in tourist areas, but learning a few phrases in French goes a long way with locals. Try to balance time at famous sites with lingering over fresh local food and simply watching the world go by. The Mediterranean climate makes outdoor dining and activities enjoyable for much of the year.
Security & Safety
While Nice is generally considered a safe city, pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as public transport, markets, and along the Promenade des Anglais. Always keep your bags zipped and close to you, and don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or at café tables. At night, stick to well-lit public streets, especially in less-frequented neighborhoods. In the summer months, be cautious in the water—most beaches are pebbled, and the shoreline can drop off quickly. Emergency services are reliable and responsive, with police presence common in popular tourist zones.
Travel Tips
- Purchase a city transport pass if you plan to use trams and buses frequently.
- Book hotels early, especially during summer and festival season.
- Beaches are pebbly—bring water shoes for comfort.
- Markets close early, so visit in the morning for the freshest produce.
- Try traditional Niçoise dishes like socca and salade niçoise.
- Museums often close on Mondays—check hours in advance.
- Tap water is safe to drink, and many fountains are refillable.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up at cafés is common.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in September 2023
Nice is effortlessly beautiful! Spent every morning walking the Promenade des Anglais, then got lost in those colorful Old Town streets. The food was phenomenal, especially the fresh seafood. I'd go back just for the market alone.
Traveled here in June 2024
We came as a couple and loved the relaxed vibe mixed with lively city energy. The views from Castle Hill were incredible, although the climb was a bit tough in the heat. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes for all the walking!
Stayed in April 2024
Loved exploring Nice’s markets and sampling local treats. The pebbly beaches took some getting used to! Museums were inspiring, especially the Chagall collection. Would have liked a bit less traffic downtown.
Visited in March 2024
An art lover’s dream—the Matisse Museum is unmissable. We took a tram everywhere which made getting around super easy. Friendly people, great food, and amazing weather even in spring. Highly recommend!
Traveled here in July 2023
Our kids had a blast playing on the beach and riding the carousel in Place Masséna. Very family-friendly city, though it was quite busy in peak summer. Plenty of gelato options kept everyone happy.
Visited in December 2023
Came for the Christmas markets and loved the festive lights everywhere! Not a beach trip this time, but the Old Town was magical in winter. Some attractions were a bit quieter which I appreciated.
Traveled here in May 2024
Solo traveler here—felt safe walking around both day and night. Ate socca almost every day and chatted with locals at the market. Renting a bike along the seafront was a highlight.
Visited in October 2023
The city has energy but is somehow laid-back at the same time. Enjoyed sipping coffee in a café and people-watching for hours. I took a quick trip to Monaco—super easy by train!
Traveled here in August 2023
Fantastic spot for a romantic getaway. The night markets and live music in Old Town were so much fun. Only downside: crowds on the Promenade in summer. Worth it for the sunsets.
Stayed in February 2024
Business trip turned mini-vacation—loved the vibrant street art and the flexibility of public transport. Some places close early in winter, but still found plenty to see. Definitely coming back with my wife.
Visited in May 2024
Had a wonderful time exploring museums and local shops. Markets are best early in the day—lots of fresh everything. Wish I'd packed better shoes for those cobblestone streets!
Traveled here in July 2023
The city is beautiful but the main tourist areas are super crowded in high season. Beach was OK but a little uncomfortable compared to sandy places. Food and evening walks made up for it.
Visited in March 2024
So much history everywhere you look. The square at Place Masséna is stunning. Weather was perfect for sitting outside at cafés. Would recommend spring to avoid big crowds.
Stayed in October 2023
Spent hours at the Cours Saleya market and found the local produce incredible. The vibe is relaxed but never boring—loved how friendly everyone was. Easy access to trains for day trips too.
Traveled here in November 2023
Quiet charm in the fall, especially along the waterfront. Some restaurants were closed but it felt like having the city to ourselves. Would visit again in shoulder season.
Visited in June 2024
Booked a guided food tour and learned so much about Niçoise cuisine. Enjoyed wine with locals at a tiny bar in the Old Town. Only regret—couldn't squeeze in more art galleries.
Traveled here in August 2023
Hot but totally worth it for the sea swimming! Families will appreciate easy tram rides and ample parks. At times, crowds made the markets hectic, but we always found quieter spots.
Stayed in May 2024
Arrived for the Fête des Mai—local music and food everywhere! The gardens at Castle Hill are top-notch for photos. Loved seeing local traditions up close.
Visited in April 2024
Our teens enjoyed the museums and exploring the narrow alleyways. We took a spur-of-the-moment train ride to Villefranche, just minutes away. Nice was perfect for our active family.
Traveled here in January 2024
Visited during the quieter winter months—still plenty to see, and the weather was mild. Public transport was a breeze and I felt safe throughout my stay. Highly recommend the art museums.
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