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Cultural Travel Guides• Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Best Things to Do in Nice, France: A Local’s Honest Guide
16/04/2026The Best of Nice: What to See, Do, and Experience
This article is about the best things to do in Nice, France, so you know what to visit. From what to see in Nice to the city’s top attractions and a couple of day trip ideas, this Nice things-to-do list has it all!
Nice has a reputation problem. Most visitors arrive expecting a glamorous resort city, sunbeds and rosé wine, and find something far more interesting: a genuinely Italian-influenced city with its own language, a food culture that belongs to no other French city, and an aristocratic history written in the grand facades of the Promenade des Anglais.
I visit Nice regularly – in every season, for different reasons – and it still surprises me. This guide is for the discerning traveler who wants to understand and enjoy what makes Nice distinct, not just tick off its landmarks. You will find the obvious classics here, but also my honest opinions on what is overrated, what is genuinely unmissable, and what most visitors miss entirely.
Planning your time in Nice? This article covers what to do by neighborhood and why. For a day-by-day plan, see my 2 days in Nice itinerary.
Last update: April 2026
Table of Contents:
- Quick Answers about Nice
- What Makes Nice Different from the Rest of the French Riviera
- The Old Town – Nice’s Historic Heart
- The Seafront and the Water – Where Chic Meets Playful
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – Nice’s Best Free View
- Museums and Culture – Nice Beyond the Beach
- Local Food Culture – What to Eat and Drink
- Things to Do in Nice for Longer Stays
Quick Answers about Nice
Is Nice worth visiting?: Absolutely! One of the most beautiful cities in France, easy to reach by train or by plane from abroad, with plenty to do, almost daily blue skies, and excellent local food and wine.
Best time to visit: May-June or September-October
How many days in Nice: Nice is perfect for a weekend getaway, but I recommend staying longer to explore beyond the main sights or to visit other parts of the French Riviera on day trips.
Nice vs. Cannes, which one? I prefer Nice because it’s bigger, with more things to do, and beautiful places nearby. Choose Cannes for a quieter, more relaxed holiday.
What Makes Nice Different from the Rest of the French Riviera
Often considered the unofficial capital of the French Riviera, Nice has an identity of its own that clearly distinguishes it from the rest of the region.
Blessed by nature, life in Nice unfolds with feet in the water and a soul in the mountains. Its flora is predominantly Mediterranean, with a subtle touch of exoticism – plants brought from abroad that the English, somewhat stubbornly, insisted on acclimating here. The vine, introduced by the Greeks, still thrives today, producing excellent wines in the hills of Bellet just above the city.
In Nice, colorful Baroque architecture stands side by side with the elegance of the Belle Époque. Old Nice is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with scents and atmosphere that invite exploration, while the Promenade des Anglais, cooled by a fresh sea breeze, remains the city’s most elegant place to stroll and be seen.
Nice is also a truly international city, home to one of France’s main international airports, excellent museums, and a wide range of facilities catering to visitors from around the world. It makes an ideal starting point for a French Riviera road trip and an equally convenient base for exploring beautiful places near Nice by train.
At the same time, the city has preserved a strong local identity, with its own language – the Nissart – distinct food culture, and deeply rooted traditions, making Nice not just a gateway to the French Riviera, but a destination with a character entirely its own.
Are you planning your Nice trip last minute?
Below are some of the best Nice tours, hotels, and more!
- Book your flight tickets to Nice Airport (NCE); Book your train tickets to Nice.
- Book your transfer from Nice Airport to the city with Welcome Pickups.
Looking to travel around Nice independently? Click here for the best rental car rates in Nice.
Top Experiences and Tours in Nice:
Top Places to Stay in Nice:
- Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges (it has the best views of Nice!)
- Hotel Négresco (the most iconic, at the Promenade des Anglais)
- Hotel de France (a cute mid-range close to the beach)
- Best hotels in Nice with a pool (for the hottest months in Nice!)
Don’t leave for Nice without travel insurance!
SafetyWing Essential plan works well for long and short trips (from 5 days up). Can also cover electronics theft through their add-on.
The Old Town – Nice’s Historic Heart
Get Lost in Nice’s Old Town
Exploring the Old Town is one of the top things to do in Nice, France. Vieux Nice is the city’s historic district, an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas.
Getting lost in the Old Town is one of my favorite things to do in Nice. It features cultural venues, beautiful Baroque churches, elegant private mansions, and many shopping opportunities and restaurants.
The list of beautiful things to see in Nice’s Old Town includes the Cathedral Sainte-Réparate on Place Rossetti, the notable museums of Lascaris Palace and Galleries des Pochettes, and the Opera of Nice.
On Place Rossetti, you will also find Fenocchio, one of the best ice creams in Nice. However, its popularity (and long lines) are pushing locals to other great alternatives, like Azzurro, just around the corner.
Visit Cours Saleya’s Markets
Located in the historic district, Cours Saleya is the largest pedestrian area in Vieux Nice and one of the few places that still keeps its local and traditional charm. The place is great for a stroll and is well known for its colorful flower stalls (my favorite part), but there are also stalls selling local food and antiques.
This market opens from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. approximately, and is a must-see in Nice. Here, you can get seasonal fruits and vegetables, local sweets, wine, olive oil, and more. There are also a couple of stalls for touris with some hand-made souvenirs like lavender or Marseille soap.
In Cours Saleya you can also get the best socca in town (a local staple similar to Italian farinata) at Chez Theresa, a colorful (and always busy) stand. The socca is made in their bakery at 28 Rue Droite in Old Nice, and a boy brings it to the stand in Cours Saleya on a black bike.
Take the double staircase in the building just opposite and head up to the terrace for some of the best views and photos of the market.
Explore the Old Port (Port Lympia)
The Old Port, or Port Lympia, is another of the best places to see in Nice and a wonderful place for an afternoon stroll. It is colorful and busy, with about ten quays and various markets selling local products.
Built in the 18th century, Port Lympia is one of the French Riviera’s main infrastructural hubs. It accommodates both ferry companies’ ships and private yachts for tourists. During the high season, this is where tourist ferries to Saint Tropez.
The old crane located on the west quay of the Port de Commerce is the Grue Applevage n°14 and is listed as a historical monument. It was built in 1937, damaged after the Second World War, and completely restored in 1956.
The Seafront and the Water – Where Chic Meets Playful
Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais
A stroll along the Promenade des Anglais is one of the best things to do in Nice. This seaside Promenade is Nice’s main landmark, famous beyond the French borders.
The name of this promenade honors the English aristocracy, who, in the 19th century, acquired a taste for vacationing in Nice in winter to escape England’s coldest months and had the idea of building this 7-kilometer avenue by the sea.
Along the Promenade des Anglais, you will find Nice’s beaches with their legendary blue lounge chairs, the Museum of Asian Arts, the Palais de la Méditerranée, and the equally iconic Hotel Négresco.
In summer, one of my favorite places along the Promenade des Anglais for a break in the shade is the gardens of Villa Masséna (65 Rue de France). Access is free for everyone, and the benches under the large trees are especially welcome during Nice’s hottest days.
The Promenade des Anglais also hosts popular city events like the Prom Classic and the Carnival of Nice.
Beach and Apéritifs
If you are wondering what to do in Nice, France, for a relaxing day, consider visiting one of the beaches in Nice. The seafront is lined with pebbled beaches, both public and private, and they are a great place for a lazy day of sunbathing and a few dips in the sea.
The public beaches offer limited facilities, while the private beaches provide more luxurious amenities (changing cabins, towels, sun loungers), as well as bars and restaurants with seaside service. Some of these private beaches, like Blue Beach and Beau Rivage, are among the best beaches on the French Riviera.
A word of warning: I’ve seen jellyfish close to shore on the beaches of Nice as early as May, so be careful when swimming.
An apéritif in one of Nice’s private beach clubs is one of the best things to do in the city. I like Cocoon Beach’s tropical vibe, with a lounge-style setup, good cocktails, and a calm atmosphere that works well for a quieter early evening drink
Another great (and very Instagrammable) spot for an apéritif is Le Plongeoir (60 Bd Franck Pilatte, closed in winter). It’s a bit far from the city center, but the setting and views are spectacular, and it’s located next to one of the most beloved beaches among locals.
Take a Boat Tour from Nice
Explore Nice and the French Riviera from another perspective – from the water! Nice offers a wide range of boat tours, from simple sightseeing cruises to full-day experiences with lunch and swim stops included.
If you prefer to sail during the day, this guided boat tour explores the coastline from Nice to Monaco. Admire Villefranche-sur-Mer, Monaco, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Èze, and Cap d’Ail from the water, with stops for swimming or snorkeling.
Need to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing? Book this sunset boat tour that departs from Nice to discover Villefranche-sur-Mer and the preserved nature of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat under a beautiful golden light. Along the way, enjoy snorkeling and sample delicious Niçoise specialties in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Skip the crowds and create your own experience by renting a boat in Nice, with or without a skipper. It’s a great way to explore spots like Cap Ferrat or Cap d’Ail at your own pace – just be sure to book well in advance, especially from June to September.
During the high season (May to October), ferries connect Nice to Saint-Tropez for day trips. The journey takes about 2.5 hours each way and gives you around 4 hours to explore Saint-Tropez. The Provençal market at Place des Lices takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays – these are the best days to go, but also the busiest, so book early.
Water Sports and Adrenaline-Packed Activities in Nice
To reach new heights and admire Nice and its famous bay from above, try a parasailing flight. You’ll fly over Old Nice and enjoy stunning views of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – a magical experience, whether solo or shared.
The Bay of Angels tour departs from Beau Rivage Beach and covers about 2 km. It lasts around 10 minutes, just enough to get a real thrill – Click here to book a parasailing flight.
From Nice, you can also explore the Mediterranean’s beautiful dive sites, such as the Grande Baie and the Coral Cave. If it’s your first time, join this diving school at the Port of Nice for a half-day group experience. You’ll go out by boat, take turns diving, and have time to snorkel or relax on board between sessions – Click here to book your first dive from Nice.
If you want to become a certified diver, the SSI Open Water Diver course allows you to dive independently down to 20 meters. It includes theory lessons and eight dives in a protected environment – Click here to book the SSI course.
Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – Nice’s Best Free View
Enjoy the Views from La Colline du Château
If you are wondering where to go in Nice for the best views, then head to La Colline du Château. La Colline du Château is a rocky hill located on the Eastern side of Promenade des Anglais, overlooking Old Nice and the Port Lympia, and it offers incredible views of Nice, the Baie des Anges, and the Alps in the distance.
In the 11th century, a citadel occupied this hill, but King Louis XIV’s soldiers entirely dismantled it in the 18th century. Today, it is a beautiful park, great for a stroll or a picnic on the grass.
Access to La Colline du Chateau is through the stairs. There’s also a free elevator located at the end of the Promenade des Anglais. Don’t miss the archaeological remains of the Château de Nice and the surprising waterfall!
Visit the Cemetery of La Colline du Château
The cemetery of La Colline du Château is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in France. Opened by the Italians in 1783, it has kept the style, with a very theatrical staging and beautiful funerary monuments and mausoleums. Today, it houses the graves of former notables or personalities of Nice.
In addition to the pleasant walk to admire the funerary architecture, you can enjoy a nice view of the city thanks to the cemetery’s terraced layout.
Address: Allée François Aragon; Opening times: every day, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Don’t Miss the Noon Cannon on Castle Hill
If you’re exploring Colline du Château around midday, don’t be surprised to hear a loud bang echo across the city. Every day at noon, a small cannon is fired – a long-standing local tradition that dates back to the 19th century.
According to local lore, it was set up by an Englishman who wanted to remind his wife to come home for lunch (she was always late..). Another version, told by some locals, credits a Scottish general. Whether true or not, the ritual stuck, and today it remains one of Nice’s most charming quirks.
It’s a simple but memorable moment – and a fun way to experience a slice of local life while enjoying the views from the top.
Museums and Culture – Nice Beyond the Beach
Visit the Cimiez Hill
Where to go in Nice to get cultured? I suggest visiting Cimiez Hill, a peaceful neighborhood in the hills of Nice with a serene atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town.
Located about 2 km north of Old Nice, Cimiez is a beautiful area for a stroll. Here, you’ll also find the archaeological site and museum at Musée et Site Archéologique de Cimiez, as well as two of the city’s most important museums: the Musée Marc Chagall and the Musée Matisse.
The district takes its name from the Monastère de Cimiez. You can visit the church, which is open to the public free of charge, although the monastery itself is usually closed. The surrounding gardens are especially worth a visit, offering beautiful views over the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
If you’re staying near the main train station, Cimiez is a pleasant uphill walk. Along the way, you’ll pass landmarks such as the Villa Valrose and the former Hôtel Régina, which once hosted Queen Victoria during her stays in Nice. If you want to visit Cimiez from the Old Town, Tram 1 + Bus 5 (or 33) is the easiest way.
Cimiez also hosts popular city events like the Gourd Festival (end of March) and the Nice Jazz Festival in August.
The Chagall Museum – Nice’s Best-Kept Cultural Secret
If you only visit one museum in Nice, make it the Marc Chagall National Museum in the Cimiez neighborhood. Dedicated to the artist’s biblical works, it offers an immersive, almost meditative experience that feels both intimate and powerful.
Compared to the Musée Matisse, the Chagall Museum is often less crowded and more cohesive – making it a better first stop for many visitors. Even if you’re not an art expert, Chagall’s colors and storytelling are instantly captivating.
Another interesting aspect of this museum is that Marc Chagall was still alive when it was built, and he was directly involved in its design – from the conception of the space to the selection of the artworks and their exact placement and lighting. His influence is also visible in the beautiful Mediterranean garden in front of the museum: he personally chose local trees and plants based on their colors and blooming seasons.
There is also a guinguette (an outdoor café) on site, offering coffee and other refreshments in a shaded setting.
Address: Avenue Docteur Menard, closed on Tuesdays
MAMAC and the Modern Art Scene
For a glimpse into Nice’s contemporary edge, head to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC). Its bold collection spans pop art, new realism, and avant-garde works, offering a sharp contrast to the city’s classical museums. Even a quick visit gives you a feel for Nice’s creative energy beyond the Riviera clichés.
Address: Place Yves Klein. Currently closed for renovation works, expected reopening in 2028.
The Matisse Museum
Located in a peaceful villa in the hills of Nice, the Musée Matisse offers a deep dive into the life and work of one of the 20th century’s most influential artists. The collection spans Matisse’s entire career, from early paintings to his iconic cut-outs, giving you a clear sense of his artistic evolution.
This is a quieter, more contemplative museum than many others in the city – ideal if you want to take your time and better understand the artist behind the bold colors.
I have to say that this museum was closed for a while for extensive renovation works. Unfortunately, during my last two visits to Nice, it was still closed, so I can’t comment on the current experience. The (recently renovated) Matisse Museum will be my personal excuse to visit Nice again 😉
Address: 164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez. Closed on Tuesdays.
Worth It or Not? An Honest Word on the Russian Cathedral
The Russian Cathedral is often listed among the top things to do in Nice. While the exterior is undeniably interesting, the interior doesn’t quite justify the entry fee for most visitors. It’s also located some distance from the Old Town and the main attractions.
If you’re visiting Nice for two days or less, I’d recommend skipping it altogether.
Local Food Culture – What to Eat and Drink
Update: I have a full article about the best places to eat in Nice.
The Holy Trinity of Niçoise Street Food
Nice has a strong food culture, with staples, dishes, and sweets of all kinds born and perfected here. Among them are three iconic street foods (what I like to call Nice’s “Holy Trinity”) that you shouldn’t miss while in Nice.
Socca: This crêpe-like delicacy is made from chickpea flour, with a texture closer to a crispy cracker. It can be enjoyed plain or topped with savory additions such as herbs, spices, or vegetables. The best socca in Nice is served (hands down) by Chez Thérésa, a small food cart set up in Cours Saleya during market hours. Chez Thérésa is not just a good address; it’s a must-do in Nice!
Pan Bagnat: The salade niçoise in street food form, this sandwich is made with pain de campagne (country-style bread) filled with the classic ingredients of a salade niçoise. You can also find it at Chez Thérésa or any local bakery.
Pissaladière: Often described as the Provençal answer to pizza, its dough is flakier and more buttery. What truly sets it apart is the topping: typically a generous layer of slow-cooked onions, anchovies, and black olives. You’ll find it everywhere in Nice – and I still haven’t decided where it’s best, which is a great excuse to keep coming back to Nice 🙂
There are many other delicious local specialties – check out my full guide to food in Nice for more.
Take a Food Tour
A food tour is a great way to learn about food in Nice and taste some specialties. During my pre-last trip to Nice in February, I took this top-rated Nice food tour that explores the market of Cours Saleya and some gourmet shops (olive oil, truffles, candied fruits,…) in Old Nice, with tastings along the way.
Lara, our guide, was great. She is an historian and told us many things about Nice’s food and culture in general and adapted her explanations to our interests. The tour ended with a picnic on La Colline du Château, where we tasted some musts of Nice, like pissaladière, pan bagnat, socca, cheese, and cold cuts washed down with local wines – Click here to book this food tour in Nice
Bellet Wine – Nice’s Secret Appellation
The vine, introduced by the Greeks, still thrives today in Nice, producing excellent wines in the hills of Bellet, just above the city. Bellet AOC is a small, almost confidential appellation within the Provence wine region (around 50 hectares), producing distinctive reds and whites that are difficult to find outside Nice.
The vineyards are planted between 200 and 400 meters above sea level, on the steep slopes surrounding the city. Reds are typically blends of local grape varieties (Braquet and Folle Noire), along with Cinsault and Grenache Noir, while whites are made from Vermentino, Chardonnay, Clairette, Blanqueiron, and Bourboulenc.
If you have a car, I recommend visiting one or two domaines to learn more about this cherished appellation and pick up a few bottles. The Château de Bellet and the Domaine de la Source offer different visits with tastings in French and English. Be sure to book in advance – this is more of a hidden gem than a must-visit in Nice, and not somewhere you can just drop in unannounced.
If you’re short on time, a couple of wine shops in Nice carry a small selection of Bellet wines. The most central (and my favorite) is Caves Caproglio (16 Rue de la Préfecture) in the Old Town. Alternatively, Café des Amis on Cours Saleya is one of my go-to spots for an apéritif and some people-watching, and it usually has at least one Bellet wine on the list.
Things to Do in Nice for Longer Stays
If you decide to stay in Nice for more than two days, consider taking a day trip or a guided tour to explore other beautiful places in the French Riviera. Below are some favorites.
Take a Day Trip from Nice
Nice is an excellent base for exploring other beautiful places on the French Riviera on day trips. The list of beautiful day trips from Nice includes Villefranche-sur-Mer, Éze-Village, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Menton, and Monaco.
If you are visiting Nice by public transport, you will find more ideas in this article about the best places to visit near Nice without a car. I can tell you from experience that you can reach almost anywhere (even uphill) by public transport.
You can also discover the Côte d’Azur in one day with this guided driving tour of the French Riviera. Visit the village of Èze and explore Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Antibes.
Further west, Cannes and Antibes are two beautiful cities on the French Riviera worth exploring, and they are easy to reach by regional train.
If you prefer to explore inland, this Provence Countryside guided tour visits lovely towns like Grasse, Gourdon, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence and has excellent reviews.
Take a Provence Wine Tour
The Provence Wine Region is very extensive. You will, of course, discover in this area producers of rosé wine (90% of the wine production) but also of fruity and quite full-bodied red wines and aromatic and fruity whites.
I usually travel from Paris to Nice by train, and found this full-day Côtes de Provence wine tour from Nice to be the perfect option for me. It was a small group led by a local wine expert, and we visited three award-winning wineries in the Côtes de Provence appellation, where we tasted a variety of fine wines. Lunch wasn’t included, but the guide recommended a good bistro where we could eat à la carte. I still keep their mini tasting guide (pocket size), and it always comes in handy during my wine tastings in Paris.
And there you have it: the best things to do in Nice – from main attractions to hidden gems, and even what to skip. Nice is a destination in its own right, and this insider guide has everything you need to fall in love with it.
