Nice

The jewel of the French Riviera, Nice combines elegant Promenade des Anglais seafront with a charming Old Town and world-class museums. It's the region's cultural and coastal hub, offering Mediterranean beaches, Belle Époque architecture, and easy access to surrounding attractions.

Things to do

• Promenade des Anglais — Stroll along this iconic 7-km seafront boulevard lined with Belle Époque hotels, gardens, and Mediterranean views.
• Vieux Nice (Old Town) — Wander the narrow pastel-colored streets, visit the flower market at Cours Saleya, and explore local shops and cafés.
• Musée Matisse — See one of France's finest art collections showcasing Henri Matisse's paintings, sculptures, and works in a 17th-century villa.
• Castle Hill (Colline du Château) — Climb to this hilltop park for panoramic views of the Bay of Angels, the Old Town, and the surrounding coastline.
• Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain — Explore modern and contemporary art in this striking building with rooftop gardens overlooking the Baie des Anges.
• Shingle Beaches — Take a swim or sunbathe on Nice's pebbly Mediterranean beaches, with easy access from the Promenade des Anglais.

Food to try

• Salade Niçoise — A fresh salad with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies, olives, and tomatoes dressed simply with olive oil, originating from Nice.
• Socca — A crispy chickpea flour pancake served warm from street vendors, a beloved local street food and Niçois specialty.
• Pissaladière — A traditional Niçois flatbread topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives, similar to Italian focaccia.
• Farcis Niçois — Vegetables like tomatoes and peppers stuffed with herbs, breadcrumbs, and sometimes meat, a hearty local comfort dish.
• Cours Saleya Market Produce — Sample fresh local fruits, vegetables, and flowers at this vibrant daily market in the heart of the Old Town.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Siesta Hours — Many shops and restaurants close between 12 and 15 hours for lunch, so plan activities accordingly and embrace the Mediterranean rhythm.
• Greet Shopkeepers — Say 'Bonjour' when entering shops and 'Au revoir' when leaving; politeness is expected in French culture and appreciated locally.
• Visit Markets in the Morning — Head to Cours Saleya or local markets early (before noon) for the best selection of fresh produce and flowers.
• Use Local Transport — The city has an efficient bus and tram network; buying a multi-day pass is more economical than taxis for exploring Nice and nearby villages.