Welcome to Nice, France!
This beautiful city is renowned for its stunning coastline, picturesque old town, and delicious food. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best things to do in Nice. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history, soaking up the sun on the beach, or indulging in some of the best French cuisine, you’ll find something to suit your taste on this list.
To help you plan your trip, here’s a list of what to do in Nice, France!
1) Castle Hill
Castle Hill is a historic site in Nice, France with sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. The hill is home to the Nice Castle, a 12th-century fortress that was once used to protect the city from invaders.
Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular spot for tourists to visit. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, which include a chapel, a keep, and several towers. From the top of the castle walls, there are stunning views of Nice and the surrounding area. Castle Hill is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, making it a great place to spend a day exploring.
2) Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate
The Cathedral of Saint Reparata, located in Nice, France, is a Roman Catholic cathedral believed to be built on the site of a 4th-century church. The first records of the church date back to 11th century, and it was consecrated between 1650-1685.
The exterior of the cathedral is Baroque in style, with a single bell tower and two large domes. The interior is decorated with marble columns and walls, stained glass windows, and a grandiose organ. The Cathedral of Saint Reparata is one of the most important historical landmarks in Nice, and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture or history.
3) Beaches in Nice
Beaches in Nice, France are some of the most beautiful and popular in the world. With beautiful views and clear waters, they attract millions of visitors each year.
The two most popular beaches are the Promenade des Anglais and the Plage de la Baie des Anges. The Promenade des Anglais is a wide promenade that runs along the seafront of Nice for almost 7 km. It is a great place to walk, jog, skate or just enjoy the view.
The Plage de la Baie des Anges is a more relaxing place to spend a day, with its sheltered bay and calm waters. There are also many other beaches to explore in Nice, each with its own unique atmosphere. So whether you’re looking for a place to sunbathe or swim, there’s sure to be a beach in Nice that’s perfect for you.
4) Vieille Ville
Vieille Ville is the old town of Nice, France. It is a beautiful and historic area located on the Mediterranean Sea. The old town is full of narrow streets, cafes, and shops.
It is a popular tourist destination for its beauty and atmosphere. The old town is also home to many historical landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Nice and the Palais Lascaris. Visitors to Vieille Ville can enjoy a variety of activities, such as shopping, sightseeing, and dining.
With its beautiful setting and historic significance, Vieille Ville is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Nice, France.
5) Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain
The Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, or MAMAC, is one of the most important museums of modern and contemporary art in France. Housed in a purpose-built facility in the center of Nice, the museum boasts an impressive collection of works by some of the most significant artists of the last century.
Among the highlights are paintings by Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, and Henri Matisse, as well as sculpture, installations, and video art. The museum also has a lively program of temporary exhibitions, which often focus on specific themes or periods in art history. With its excellent collection and commitment to public education, the MAMAC is an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring the development of modern and contemporary art.
6) St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral
The St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral is a beautiful sight in Nice. The cathedral was built in 1901 by the last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II.
It is one of the few Russian Orthodox cathedrals in the world that is not located in Russia. The exterior of the cathedral is ornate, with three domes and six onion-shaped towers. The interior is just as elaborate, with a magnificent iconostasis and numerous icons.
The cathedral is open to visitors daily, and Mass is held regularly. Services are conducted in both Russian and French. Whether you are a practicing Orthodox Christian or simply enjoy worshiping in beautiful buildings, the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral is well worth a visit.
7) Parc de la Colline du Château
Parc de la Colline du Château is a public park located in Nice, France. The park covers an area of approximately 25 acres and is home to a variety of plant life, as well as a playground and picnic area.
The park also offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, relax on the lawns, or take a seat in one of the many cafes or restaurants that line the park. Parc de la Colline du Château is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it is easy to see why. With its beautiful setting and array of amenities, the park is truly a oasis in the heart of the city.
8) Musée Matisse
The Musée Matisse in Nice, France is a must-see for any admirer of the great artist. The museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works by Matisse, as well as a selection of his personal effects.
Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens that Matisse designed himself. The museum provides a fascinating insight into the mind of one of the twentieth century’s most important artists. With its stunning setting and wonderful collection, the Musée Matisse is an unforgettable experience.
9) Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is a famous public walkway in Nice, France. It stretches along the Mediterranean Sea for over seven kilometers, making it one of the longest seafront promenades in Europe.
The walkway is lined with palm trees and has a wide sidewalk that is perfect for strolling, biking, or Rollerblading. In the evening, the Promenade des Anglais comes alive with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the cool sea breeze and stunning views of the city lights. The Promenade des Anglais is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nice and is definitely not to be missed.
10) Monastere de Cimiez
The Monastere de Cimiez is a beautiful monastery located in Nice, France. The monastery was founded in the 4th century, and it is one of the oldest monasteries in the country.
The monastery is home to a community of monks who live and work there. The monastery also has a museum that is open to the public. The museum contains a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts from the monastery’s history. The Monastere de Cimiez is a popular tourist destination, and it is well worth a visit if you are ever in Nice.
11) Cours Saleya Flower Market
The Cours Saleya Flower Market in Nice, France is a must-see for any visitor to the area. The market is open every day except Mondays, and it is full of fresh flowers, plants, and trees.
The market dates back to the 19th century, and it is a great place to find unique gifts or simply to enjoy the sights and smells of the flowers. In addition to the flowers, the market also sells fruit, vegetables, honey, and other local products. Visitors can also find a number of cafes and restaurants in the area, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Whether you’re looking for a bouquet of fresh roses or a basket of ripe strawberries, the Cours Saleya Flower market is sure to have what you need.
12) Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park in Nice is a large, beautiful park that is perfect for a day of relaxation. The park has a variety of different activities to keep visitors entertained, including a playground, a petting zoo, and a pond where you can feed the ducks.
There are also plenty of benches and shady areas to relax in, making it the perfect place to escape the heat of the summer sun. In addition to its many amenities, Phoenix Park is also home to a number of historical landmarks, such as the Roman baths that date back to the first century.
As such, it provides an insightful glimpse into the history of Nice. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day out or a chance to learn about the city’s past, Phoenix Park is sure to disappoint.
13) Avenue Jean Medecin
Avenue Jean Medecin is one of the busiest and most well-known streets in Nice, France. Lined with shops and cafes, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The street gets its name from Jean Medecin, who was the mayor of Nice from 1928 to 1943 and 1947 to 1965. During his time in office, Medecin oversaw the redevelopment of the city, which included the construction of Avenue Jean Medecin. Today, the street is a busy thoroughfare, with tram lines running down its length.
It is also home to some of Nice’s most famous landmarks, such as the Hotel Negresco and the Palais de Justice. Whether you’re strolling along its pavement or riding the tram, Avenue Jean Medecin is a must-see when visiting Nice.
14) Musée Marc Chagall
Nice’s Musée Marc Chagall is dedicated to the works of the 20th-century artist of the same name. The museum is located in a beautiful building overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and it features a wide range of Chagall’s paintings, sculptures, and other works.
The museum also has an excellent shop and cafe, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. Visitors can admire Chagall’s most famous paintings, such as “The Wedding Feast at Cana” and “The Eiffel Tower in Red,” as well as his less well-known works. The Musée Marc Chagall is a must-see for any fan of 20th-century art.
15) Wine Tasting Around Nice
If you’re a fan of wine, there’s no better place to go for a wine tasting than France. The country is home to some of the best wines in the world, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample them.
One of the most popular wine-tasting regions is Nice, located in the south of France. The region is known for its Provencal rosés, which are light and refreshing wines perfect for summer sipping. Nice is also home to a number of top-rated wineries, so it’s easy to find a place to sample some of the best wines in the world. If you’re planning a trip to France, be sure to add a wine tasting in Nice to your itinerary.
16) Cap-Ferrat
Cap-Ferrat is a small peninsula located in the southeastern corner of France. It is situated between Nice and Monaco, and it is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation.
Cap-Ferrat is home to several luxurious villas, including Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which was built in 1912 and houses an impressive art collection. The peninsula also has a number of scenic hiking trails, and it is a popular spot for scuba diving and sailing.
Cap-Ferrat is truly a little piece of paradise, and it is no wonder that it has been a favorite destination of the rich and famous for over a century.
17) Rent a Bike or Take a Bike Tour
Renting a bike in Nice, France is a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time. There are numerous bike rental shops throughout the city, and most of them offer day rates that are very reasonable.
The best way to find a shop that suits your needs is to ask around or check online reviews. Once you have found a shop, simply show your ID and pay the rental fee. In most cases, you will be required to leave a deposit, which will be refunded when you return the bike.
If you’d rather have a guided tour, there are plenty of options available. Either way, biking is a great way to experience the beauty of Nice while getting some exercise in the process.
18) Basilique Notre-Dame de Nice
Basilique Notre-Dame de Nice is a Catholic church located in Nice, France. The basilica was built in 1829, and it is one of the largest churches in the city.
The church is notable for its neo-Byzantine architecture, and it has a large dome that is visible from many parts of the city. Inside the church, there are several paintings and frescoes that date back to the 19th century.
The basilica also has a large organ that is used for musical performances. Notre- Dame de Nice is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it is visited by thousands of people every year.
19) The Musée Masséna
The Musée Masséna is dedicated to the history of the city of Nice and the surrounding area. The museum opened in 1921 and contains over 10,000 artifacts. The museum is named after André Masséna, who was a French general who fought in the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars.
He is considered to be one of the greatest generals of his time. The museum contains a number of artifacts relating to Masséna, including his uniform and sword. In addition to the artifacts, the museum also contains a number of paintings and sculptures. The Musée Masséna is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Nice or the Napoleonic Wars.
20) Mont Boron
Mont Boron is a picturesque neighborhood perched atop a hill in the French Riviera. It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Nice below.
Mont Boron is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Château de Mont Alban, an 11th-century fortress, and the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Pentecôte, a beautiful Romanesque chapel.
In addition to its history and natural beauty, Mont Boron is also known for its lively atmosphere. The streets are lined with buzzing cafes and boutiques, and there is always something going on at one of the many parks or squares. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun or explore Nice’s rich culture, Mont Boron is the perfect place to start.
Recap of What to do in Nice, France
- Castle Hill
- Beaches in Nice
- Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate
- Vieille Ville
- Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain
- St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral
- Parc de la Colline du Château
- Musée Matisse
- Promenade des Anglais
- Monastere de Cimiez
- Cours Saleya Flower Market
- Phoenix Park
- Avenue Jean Medecin
- Musée Marc Chagall
- Cap-Ferrat
- Wine Tasting/Tour
- Rent a bike/bike tour
- Basilique Notre-Dame
- Musée Masséna
- Mont Boron
Where to Next?
For another beautiful European city with great beaches and weather, be sure to check out Lisbon!
For another city with tons of history and great museums, be sure to check out Copenhagen!
Madrid is another great city with plenty to do and see!