Nice is the crown jewel of the French Riviera, blending Italian-influenced architecture, a sun-drenched Mediterranean climate, and a vibrant, historic Old Town. It is best visited in late spring or early autumn to enjoy the iconic azure waters and bustling markets without the peak summer crowds.
Top Things to Do in Nice
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Getting Around Nice
From the Airport
Tram. The Ligne 2 tram connects Nice Côte d'Azur Airport directly to the city center (Port Lympia) in about 25-30 minutes for a standard fare. Rideshare. Uber is widely available and operates at designated pickup zones outside the terminals, usually costing between 25 and 40 euros depending on traffic.
Once You're There
Tram. Nice has an excellent modern tram system (Lignes 1, 2, and 3) that covers the main tourist areas and shopping districts efficiently. Walking. The city center, particularly the Old Town and the Promenade, is extremely walkable and best explored on foot to discover hidden alleyways.
Where to Stay in Nice
Hotel picks for Nice are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Nice
Jan★ 4.8 (1,216)12 Rue Lascaris, 06300 Nice, FranceA Michelin-starred gem that masterfully blends South African influences with fresh, local Provençal ingredients.
Le Comptoir du Marché★ 4.6 (1,352)8 Rue du Marché, 06000 Nice, FranceLocated in the heart of the Old Town, this cozy spot is famous for its chalkboard menu featuring market-fresh seasonal dishes.
Olive & Artichaut★ 4.6 (1,108)6 Rue Sainte-Reparate, 06300 Nice, FranceThis charming restaurant focuses on high-quality, farm-to-table ingredients sourced directly from the nearby markets.
Fenocchio★ 4.5 (7,009)2 Pl. Rossetti, 06300 Nice, FranceAn institution in the Old Town, this gelateria is world-renowned for its eccentric and massive selection of unique ice cream flavors.
Chez Pipo★ 4.5 (6,417)13 Rue Bavastro, 06300 Nice, FranceThis is the ultimate local spot to try Socca, a traditional chickpea pancake that defines the culinary heritage of Nice.
Bistrot d'Antoine★ 4.5 (1,536)27 Rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice, FranceKnown for its lively atmosphere and hearty, traditional French comfort food, it is a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Peixes★ 4.4 (2,861)4 Rue Jacques Médecin, 06300 Nice, FranceA modern, trendy spot specializing in incredibly fresh ceviche and creative seafood tapas influenced by Mediterranean flavors.
Le Plongeoir★ 4.3 (4,963)60 Bd Franck Pilatte, 06300 Nice, FrancePerched on a rock above the sea, this restaurant offers an iconic dining experience with unparalleled views of the Mediterranean.
La Merenda★ 4.3 (991)4 Rue Raoul Bosio, 06300 Nice, FranceThis legendary, tiny bistro serves authentic Niçoise cuisine like petits farcis without taking reservations, so arrive early.
Café de Turin★ 4.1 (5,459)5 Pl. Garibaldi, 06300 Nice, FranceA historic establishment on Place Garibaldi that is widely considered the best place in the city for fresh seafood platters.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Nice
Old Town & Panoramic Views
Morning. Start your journey by wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Vieux Nice, where pastel-colored buildings and shuttered windows create a quintessential Mediterranean atmosphere. Make your way to the Cours Saleya market, where you can browse stalls overflowing with fresh flowers, local olives, and spices. Stop briefly to admire the baroque architecture of the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate before ducking into a bakery for a local treat. After soaking in the market vibes, begin your ascent toward the Colline du Château. The climb is rewarded with the most famous panoramic view of the city, overlooking the turquoise bay and the terracotta rooftops of the old city.
Afternoon. After descending from the hill, walk toward the Port Lympia area to see the mix of traditional wooden fishing boats and modern yachts. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a nearby bistro before heading toward Place Garibaldi, one of the oldest and grandest squares in Nice. Spend some time admiring the trompe-l'œil facades that decorate the surrounding buildings. If you have energy left, stroll along the Quai des États-Unis, which connects the old town to the famous beachfront. It is the perfect spot to feel the sea breeze and watch the locals go about their day.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, head to the Promenade des Anglais to witness the sky turn shades of pink and orange over the Mediterranean. Walk along the iconic blue chairs that line the walkway, a symbol of the city's relaxed pace. Find a cozy spot in the Old Town for dinner, choosing a place that serves traditional Niçoise dishes like Salade Niçoise. End your evening with a scoop of artisanal gelato from the famous Fenocchio. The atmosphere in the narrow alleys at night is magical, with the scent of flowers and sea salt lingering in the air.
Artistic Nice & Elegant Boulevards
Morning. Begin your day by taking the bus or a quick taxi to the Cimiez neighborhood to visit the Musée Matisse, housed in a beautiful 17th-century villa surrounded by olive groves. Spend your morning admiring the extensive collection of works by Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for many years. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Musée Marc Chagall, which is famous for its stunning series of paintings depicting the Biblical Message. These two museums offer a deep dive into the artistic soul of the French Riviera. The quiet, leafy gardens surrounding these museums provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city center.
Afternoon. Head back toward the city center to explore the sophisticated Avenue Jean Médecin, the main shopping artery of Nice. Stop at the massive Basilique Notre-Dame de l'Assomption to marvel at its gothic spires and intricate stained glass. From there, walk to the grand Place Masséna, the city's main square known for its striking red buildings and the modern 'Conversation à Nice' art installation. Take a break in the nearby Jardin Albert 1er, a lush park that serves as the green lung of the city. It is a wonderful place to sit under the palm trees and people-watch for an hour.
Evening. For your final evening in the city center, treat yourself to a seafood-focused dinner near the port area, which comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Walk along the waterfront to enjoy the reflections of the city lights on the water. If you are in the mood for something upscale, check out the cocktail bars tucked away in the side streets near Place Garibaldi. The blend of Italian charm and French elegance is most palpable here at night. Reflect on your trip while sipping a local glass of rosé, the signature drink of the region.
Coastal Splendor & Villas
Morning. Dedicate your third day to the stunning coastline just outside the city center by taking a local train toward Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Your primary destination is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a magnificent pink palace filled with art and surrounded by nine themed gardens. Spend several hours wandering through the Spanish, Japanese, and Florentine gardens, each offering unique views of the Mediterranean. The villa itself is an architectural marvel that transports you back to the Belle Époque era. It is arguably the most beautiful estate on the entire French Riviera, making it an essential stop for any first-time visitor.
Afternoon. After exploring the villa, take the scenic coastal path that winds around the peninsula, offering crystal-clear views of the rocky coves below. Walk toward the village of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat for a relaxed lunch at a seaside cafe. If the weather is warm, find a spot at Paloma Beach to dip your toes into the turquoise water. The pace here is much slower than in the heart of Nice, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the coastline. Head back to Nice in the late afternoon to prepare for your final evening.
Evening. Return to Nice and spend your final evening back on the Promenade des Anglais, perhaps walking toward the iconic Negresco Hotel to admire its legendary facade. Grab a final dinner at a spot you haven't tried yet, focusing on local specialties like Socca if you haven't already. As the stars come out, take one last walk through the quiet corners of the Old Town. The combination of historical architecture and the gentle sound of the sea makes for a perfect farewell to the French Riviera. It is a memory you will surely treasure long after you leave.