Once you catch a glimpse of the turquoise waters and stroll through the narrow, colorful streets of the Old Town, you’ll understand why many artists settled around Nice and the Côte d’Azur. The tranquil Riviera city in the south of France offers a perfect seaside escape rich in culture, cuisine, art, and entertainment. Regardless of your reasons for visiting, here are some affordable suggestions if you find yourself lucky enough to spend a few days in Nice.
To Stay:
I stayed at the Villa Saint Exupery Beach hostel which was right in the center of the city. Close to the main piazza, shopping street, 3 minutes from the water and a short 5 minute walk to the old town, you can’t get more central than this. Beds start at around $30 a night and the hostel has a small gym and a bar with a sitting area if you fancy a happy hour drink or need a place to work. I often need both at the same time.
Wander through the Old Town
I always find myself pulled to the oldest part of the city. The old town in Nice, called Vielle Ville, is a delightful maze of colorful buildings in pastel hues. Get lost on the cobblestone streets, have a drink in one of the internal piazzas, and enjoy an afternoon wandering in and out of the abundant shops within. The Nice cathedral is also nestled inside this area.
Visit the Cours Saleya Market
Open every morning from Tuesday to Sunday, this outdoor market is a French culinary delight. It’s a treat to walk along the stalls and take in all of the brilliant fruits and vegetables, as well as flowers and artisan goods. You can also grab a pastry or sample the Nice specialty, socca, an oven-baked pancake-like street food made of chickpea flour. Also if you’re looking for a good gift or souvenir, pick up some of the handmade soap which is very inexpensive and locally produced.
Check out the Matisse Museum
I’m an art junkie and I really enjoyed my visit to this lovely museum with one of the biggest collections of the Fauve artist’s work. Henri Matisse first came to Nice in 1917 and stayed until his death in 1954. He was smitten with the sea, the colors, the light. The museum’s collection exhibits a series of his paintings and some personal letters from his lifetime. Also, if you wander around back, heading slightly to the right if you’re facing away from the museum, you’ll come to a church with a gorgeous flower garden overlooking the city down below. Talk about serendipity.
Go on a Riviera Bar Crawl
I forced myself to go on this bar crawl even though I was traveling alone and hate going out by myself. And damn did I have a blast. I booked it through my hostel but you can also do so here and it only costs $15 for a kickass nightlife experience. You’ll get to go to four bars where you get a free shot at the entry and end the night in a club near the water. I met the most hilarious German guys and forgot all my nervousness after the first five minutes. Highly recommend for young people looking for a taste of Nice’s nightlife.
Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais
This glorious pedestrian walkway spans 4.35 miles and runs adjacent to the coastline offering a view of the interminable coast on one side and lush 19th century mansions on the other. Listen to music or grab a buddy and stroll down the promenade while you admire the blue waters and the local personalities along the French Riviera.
Climb up to Castle Hill
When you look out at the water near the old town, you’ll probably notice this lovely little lookout perch near the NICE sign. The terrace separates the city into two parts: the eastern side with the old port and the western part with the old town. Climb up here an hour or so before sunset for a gorgeous view of the city down below and the mountains in the distance. Maybe bring up a drink and watch the sun as it sets over the Côte d’Azur.
Lounge on the beach
I’m sure I don’t have to tell you twice. If you’re lucky enough to pass through during the warm season, grab a towel or beach chair and spend the afternoon reading, relaxing and working on your tan. Nice has a pebble beach so plan accordingly. If you were hoping for a sandy escape, hop on a 15 minute train ride to Antibes or 25 minute ride to Cannes. Which brings me to my next point…
Take a day trip to a nearby city
If you have several days in Nice and want to see more of the French Riviera, there are plenty of pretty cities that are just a short train ride away.
Cannes – home of the Cannes Film Festival, this city is just 25 minutes away on the train. Cannes has a quaint city center and sandy beaches should you fancy a more comfortable beach experience.
Antibes – another hot spot for travelers who aren’t impressed with Nice’s pebbly beaches, a quick 15 minute train ride will offer you sand and sunshine. You’ll also find a small Picasso museum seeing as the artist lived in the city for a short time.
Monte Carlo – for three euros and 15 – 20 minutes, you can set foot in another country. The second smallest country in the world after the Vatican, Monte Carlo is famous for its ritzy hotels, renowned casino, and the illustrious history of the royal family. Walk around the pristine city center, admire the breathtaking panorama, try your luck at the casino, and see the church where Princess Grace and Prince Rainier are buried.
Cagnes Sur La Mer – a ten minute train ride from Nice, this little town has a lovely town center, a modern shopping mall, and for a time was the haunt of Impressionist artist, Renoir. I wanted to come here to visit the small Renoir museum but I never got the chance.
