What to do in Nice during your stay on the French Riviera? This Mediterranean city offers a wide range of activities combining sea and culture.
You can visit Old Nice and stroll through the Cours Saleya market, walk along the Promenade des Anglais facing the beaches, discover the Marc Chagall and Matisse museums, or climb the Castle Hill for the panoramic view. The local cuisine and Nice's atmosphere complete the experience. Nice is easy to visit on foot and enjoys sunshine all year round.
In this article, you will discover the best activities to plan your stay in Nice. We provide you with practical information on places to visit, neighborhoods to explore, and experiences not to be missed in the historic center and surrounding areas.
The city of Nice perfectly combines seaside relaxation and cultural richness. Each neighborhood has its own character. You can go from one atmosphere to another in just a few minutes.
Whether you're an art lover, a fan of local cuisine, or enjoy walks by the azure sea, Nice has something to satisfy every traveler. History can be read through the architecture and narrow streets of Old Nice. The museums house major works of art. Gardens and green spaces dot the city.
Top 3 original activities to do in Nice
Nice offers many experiences that are sure to charm you. Here are three original activities you won't want to miss to fully enjoy this magnificent city.
1/ Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais
It's impossible to visit Nice without taking a detour to its famous Promenade des Anglais. This legendary spot stretches for several kilometers along the Mediterranean Sea and is perfect for walking, cycling, or even scootering. The sea breeze and incredible view of the Baie des Anges make it a privileged place to relax while admiring the exceptional landscape unfolding before you.
2/ Discover the Cours Saleya market
If you're looking for an authentic experience, head to the Cours Saleya, one of the liveliest and most colorful markets in Old Nice. Here you'll find fresh local produce: goat's cheese, Provençal herbs, olive oil, seasonal fruit... Not to mention the famous flowers of Nice, which fill the air with their enchanting fragrance. A real treat for the eyes and the taste buds!
3/ Visit the Château de Nice
For an experience combining history and nature, climb up to the Château de Nice. Although the fortress has disappeared, the site offers breathtaking views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding mountains. Its gardens and the remains of the castle, located at the top of the hill, are perfect for a peaceful stroll, far from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Things to do in Nice
Where to walk to enjoy the atmosphere?
In Old Nice
Strolling through the narrow streets of Old Nice is an unforgettable experience. The colorful facades of the houses, the scents of thyme and lavender, and the sounds of the city waking up create a unique atmosphere. Don't miss Place Rossetti, where the warm atmosphere invites you to take a well-deserved break with a coffee or homemade ice cream.
At the Parc de la Colline du Château
For a spectacular view of Nice, head up to the Parc de la Colline du Château. Although the castle was dismantled in the 18th century, this park offers a calm and relaxing setting with a panoramic view of the city, the Baie des Anges, and the surrounding mountains. It's a true haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
What sports activities are there to do?
Enjoy the beaches and water sports
Nice and its sunny beaches are perfect for water sports. Whether you're a fan of paddleboarding, jet skiing, or scuba diving, the calm turquoise waters of Nice Bay allow you to explore the seabed or simply relax in the sun. The pebble and sandy beaches are ideal for recharging your batteries after a sporting activity.
Hiking on Mont Boron
If you love nature, don't miss a hike on Mont Boron, just a few minutes from the city center. This trail, which winds through Mediterranean vegetation, offers exceptional views of Nice Bay and the port. It's a great way to combine exercise with spectacular scenery.
What to visit to discover the heritage and culture?
The Marc Chagall Museum
Nice has been a source of inspiration for many artists, including the famous Marc Chagall. The Marc Chagall Museum is a must-see for discovering the artist's unique world, particularly through his major works that combine religion, nature, and culture. This museum is ideal for art lovers, offering an immersion in the painter's work and a moment of tranquility.
Sainte-Réparate Cathedral
In the heart of Old Nice, Sainte-Réparate Cathedral is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. Inside, you will be dazzled by its colorful frescoes and delicate sculptures that tell the religious history of the city. A perfect visit for history and architecture lovers.
What local experiences are there to enjoy?
The best way to discover Nice is to soak up the local atmosphere. Take advantage of your stay to try socca, a chickpea-based pancake, or pissaladière, a type of traditional pizza topped with onions and anchovies. For those with a sweet tooth, a detour to the local pastry shops is a must: the cannelé niçois and tarte au citron are classics.
Don't miss a visit to the beaches of Nice, where you can relax or try water sports such as jet skiing or paddle boarding.
What events are there in Nice?
Nice hosts nearly 2,000 cultural, festive, and sporting events each year. You'll find events for all tastes in the city's calendar. The Carnival remains the flagship event with its parades of floats, flower battles, and shows from mid-February to early March. The Nice Jazz Festival takes place at the end of July in the Albert Ier garden. Concert and cultural enthusiasts can enjoy a rich program of events throughout the year. You can also take part in free activities such as outdoor screenings in the summer or neighborhood events. The city regularly hosts themed festivals and sporting events. Check the official website to plan your visit according to the season of your stay.
How to get to Nice?
By car: Nice is accessible via the A8 motorway, which connects the city to Monaco (30 minutes) and Cannes (45 minutes).
By train: The Nice-Ville train station is well served, particularly by high-speed trains from Paris (5 hours) and other major cities.
By plane: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is only 7 km from the city center and offers direct connections to many European capitals.
Villages and nature in the surrounding area
Villefranche-sur-Mer: Just 10 minutes from Nice, this charming coastal village is the perfect place for a quiet day out, with its small beaches and picturesque narrow streets.
Eze: Perched on a hilltop, this village offers breathtaking views and is home to exotic gardens and the famous Fragonard perfume factory.
Mercantour National Park: If you enjoy hiking, this nature park, about 1.5 hours from Nice, offers spectacular mountain scenery and high-altitude lakes.