What to Do in Nice, France: A Complete Guide to the French Riviera Gem

Wondering what to do in Nice, France? This beautiful Mediterranean city on the French Riviera offers a charming mix of history, seaside relaxation, and vibrant culture. Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, Nice always has more to offer.

Its colorful markets, stunning beaches, and picturesque Old Town make it one of the best places to explore in the South of France. From hilltop views to sunset strolls along the sea, this guide takes you through the best experiences for your unforgettable South of France adventure.

1. Explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Start your trip in the heart of the city. The Old Town is a maze of narrow streets filled with local shops, pastel-colored buildings, and the scent of fresh bread from boulangeries. Every turn offers something new to discover.

Stop by the Cours Saleya Market, open most days, where you’ll find flowers, spices, soaps, and Provençal produce. This bustling square is also surrounded by charming cafes and restaurants—perfect for soaking in your first impression of Nice.

2. Climb Colline du Château for Panoramic Views

Next, head to Colline du Château (Castle Hill), one of the city’s top viewpoints. Although the castle itself is no longer standing, this park offers lush greenery and sweeping vistas over the rooftops of Nice, the harbor, and the sparkling Mediterranean.

Whether you take the stairs or the elevator from the Promenade, the view from the top is a must-see. It’s also a peaceful place to get over jet lag, offering shade, quiet, and an easy stroll with stunning sights.

3. Relax at a Beach Club on the Promenade des Anglais

No visit to Nice is complete without spending time along the Promenade des Anglais. This iconic seafront stretch offers public beaches and exclusive beach clubs, where you can rent a lounger, sip a cocktail, and enjoy the sun in style.

Some of the most popular beach clubs include Castel Plage and Opéra Plage. With the clear, turquoise sea and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s easy to see why the French Riviera is beloved worldwide.

4. Stroll Along the Promenade at Sunset

There’s no better way to end a day in Nice than a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais at sunset. Locals and travelers alike gather here to walk, bike, rollerblade, or just watch the sky turn pink over the water.

The vibe is relaxed yet lively. Grab some gelato or a glass of rosé and enjoy the moment—this simple experience is often the highlight of a trip.

5. Visit Museums and Cultural Landmarks

Nice is home to several fascinating museums. Art lovers should head to:

• Musée Matisse, showcasing the work of the modern master
• Musée Marc Chagall, filled with vibrant biblical themes
• Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC), located near Place Garibaldi

These museums are great places to dive into local culture and take a break from the sun.

6. Take a Day Trip from Nice

Use Nice as a base to explore nearby gems of the French Riviera. Within a short train or bus ride, you can get to:

• Villefranche-sur-Mer: A stunning seaside town just 10 minutes away
• Èze: A hilltop village with breathtaking views
• Monaco: Luxury, casinos, and the famous Grand Prix
• Cannes: Known for film festivals and luxury shopping

These quick getaways add extra sparkle to your South of France experience.

7. Discover the Port and Local Eateries

The Port of Nice is often overlooked but well worth a visit. Lined with colorful buildings and bobbing boats, it offers a quieter, authentic feel.

Here you can find local restaurants serving seafood, Niçoise specialties like socca (chickpea pancake), and Provençal wine. It’s a great place to get away from tourist crowds and enjoy authentic flavors.

8. Experience Nice’s Nightlife and Live Music

When the sun goes down, Nice, France transforms into a lively city of music and nightlife. Enjoy live jazz at Shapko Bar, rooftop cocktails with sea views, or dance the night away at clubs near the Old Town.

There’s something for everyone—whether you’re into sophisticated lounges or energetic beach parties.

9. Visit Local Churches and Squares

Some peaceful places in Nice include:

• Place Masséna, the city’s central square known for its black-and-white checkerboard tiles and fountain
• Nice Cathedral, located in the Old Town with striking baroque interiors
• Russian Orthodox Cathedral, one of the largest of its kind outside Russia

Ces monuments ajoutent de la profondeur à la tapisserie historique de Nice, en France.

10. Conseils de voyage pour votre visite

• Meilleur moment pour visiter Nice: Le printemps et le début de l'automne offrent un temps agréable sans l'affluence estivale.
• Se déplacer: La ville est très agréable à pied, avec des tramways et des bus fiables pour les distances plus longues.
• Langue: Le français est parlé, mais l'anglais est largement compris dans les zones touristiques.
• Sécurité: Nice est généralement sûre, mais surveillez vos affaires dans les endroits fréquentés.

Que vous planifiiez une escapade romantique, une retraite en solitaire ou des vacances en famille, Nice, France, est toujours à la hauteur.

Réflexions finales : Votre aventure idéale dans le sud de la France

Nice, en France, est le genre de destination qui capture votre cœur et reste avec vous longtemps après votre départ. Elle offre un mélange parfait de plage, d'histoire, de nourriture et de charme. Que vous souhaitiez vous détendre, explorer ou simplement goûter à la belle vie, Nice est à la hauteur.

Du tumulte de la vieille ville aux vues paisibles depuis le sommet de la Colline du Château, chaque voyageur trouvera son coin préféré. À mesure que votre première impression de Nice se transforme en souvenirs impérissables, vous comprendrez pourquoi cette ville est plus qu'une simple étape : c'est un voyage à part entière.