Nice, founded by the Greeks and later shaped by Roman and Italian influences, officially became part of France in 1860. In the 19th century, it became a favored winter resort for European aristocracy, who were drawn to its mild climate, stunning landscapes, and Mediterranean coastline. This period established Nice as a fashionable retreat for the wealthy, leaving a lasting legacy on the city’s cultural and architectural character.
I was initially unsure about visiting Nice because of past experiences in France, but my time in this city completely changed my mind. The combination of the sea and the sunshine really made it special. If I were to return to Nice, these are the activities I would do:
- Place Masséna
- Promenade des Anglais
- Day Trip to Monaco
- Castle Hill
- Marc Chagall National Museum
- Matisse Museum
- Enjoy the Beaches
1
Place Masséna
Place Masséna is a historic square located in the heart of Nice and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. As the largest square in Nice, it’s surrounded by elegant buildings, shops, and restaurants, making it a bustling hub for both locals and tourists. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy the sunshine, particularly in the summer. You can easily spend 2–3 hours here, shopping, dining, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Summer is ideal for enjoying the outdoor spaces, but Place Masséna is lively year-round.
Location: Central Nice, near the Promenade des Anglais and the Old Town.
2
Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is a 7.5 km long seafront walkway that runs alongside the Mediterranean Sea, offering stunning views and access to several beaches, including the public Plage Magnan. The promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk, cycling, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
Location: Runs parallel to the coastline, starting near the airport and extending to the Old Town.
3
Day Trip to Monaco
Monaco, while a destination on its own, is a must-visit if you’re staying in Nice. The principality is known for its luxury casinos, yachts, and the famous Monte Carlo. A day trip from Nice is easy and affordable; you can take a train for just 3.6 euros (5$ CAD), with the journey taking about 30 minutes.
To learn more about Monaco, check out Monaco Travel Guide and 7 Of the Best Things to Do in Monaco.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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4
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Castle Hill is a historic site and park offering panoramic views of Nice, the Mediterranean, and the surrounding area. The hill was once home to a fortress, but today it’s a peaceful park with waterfalls, gardens, and ruins. It’s a perfect spot for a walk or a picnic.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may vary depending on the season).
Location: East of the Old Town, accessible by stairs or a public elevator.
5
Marc Chagall National Museum
The Marc Chagall National Museum is dedicated to the works of the famous artist Marc Chagall, particularly his religious-themed pieces. The museum’s collection includes Chagall’s large-scale paintings, stained glass, and mosaics, offering a deep insight into his artistic vision.
Time Needed: Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours here.
Entrance Fee: Around 10 euros (15$ CAD) for adults. Free for visitors under 18.
Opening Hours: Open daily except Tuesdays, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Location: Avenue Dr Ménard, Nice.
6
Matisse Museum
The Matisse Museum, located in the Cimiez neighborhood, showcases a vast collection of works by Henri Matisse, spanning his entire career. The museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century villa and is surrounded by olive gardens, making it a serene spot to enjoy art and nature.
Time Needed: Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours.
Entrance Fee: Approximately 10 euros (15$ CAD). Free for visitors under 18.
Opening Hours: Open daily except Tuesdays, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Location: Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice.
7
Enjoy the Beaches
Nice is home to a variety of beautiful beaches, making it easy to find the perfect spot to relax by the sea. Most of these beaches are public, which means there’s no entrance fee. Bringing a towel is essential to claim your spot on the beach and lay down comfortably on the pebbles. However, if you prefer a bit more comfort, many of the beaches offer lounge chairs and amenities through private beach clubs. Keep in mind that renting a lounge chair usually comes with a fee, and these private areas often include access to showers, restrooms, and on-site restaurants.
Note: The beaches in Nice are pebbled, not sandy, which can be uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. To protect your feet, it’s highly recommended to bring sandals or water shoes. This will make navigating the pebbles much easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some of the most popular and highly rated beaches in Nice according to Google Maps:
- Plage de Carras
- Plage des Ponchettes
- Plage Publique de Castel
- Plage du Forum
With a mix of public and private options, these beaches offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax, take a swim, or simply enjoy the stunning Mediterranean views.
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