23 Best things to do in Nice, France, in 3 days or more

Introduction

Hey everyone! In this article, we’ll share the best things to do in Nice based on our own experience. In May 2024, we spent a week traveling through the south of France, exploring the PACA region (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur), mainly around the Var and Alpes-Maritimes departments.

Nice was our entry point to the region. It’s where we landed and where we stayed for two nights, giving us the perfect base to visit Monaco, Eze, and, of course, to enjoy Nice itself.

Nice is the capital of the Alpes-Maritimes department on the French Riviera, set along the pebbly shores of the Baie des Anges. Interestingly, the city was founded by the Greeks and later became a retreat for 19th-century European elites and artists.

As the heart of the French Riviera, Nice is truly a stunning place to be. There are so many things to see and do that you could easily spend one to two full days exploring at a relaxed pace. We chose to dedicate a full day to Nice, which gave us plenty of time to visit all the best sights.

In this article, we’ll tell our own story of exploring Nice and share all the best things to do in the city. If you’re planning a trip to the south of France and the French Riviera, make sure Nice is on your itinerary. But enough for now—let’s dive into the best things to do in Nice.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nice.

Getting to Nice

Nice is one of the most accessible cities on the French Riviera, making it easy to include in any trip to the south of France.

The city is served by Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is just a few kilometers from the city center. It’s the main international airport for the region, with direct flights from many European cities and even some long-haul destinations. From the airport, you can easily reach downtown Nice by tram (Line 2), local buses, taxis, or car rental.

If you’re coming by train, Nice is well connected to other major French cities. The TGV runs regularly from Paris, taking around 5 hours, while regional TER trains link Nice to nearby towns like Cannes, Antibes, Monaco, and Ventimiglia in Italy.

Driving is also an option. The scenic coastal roads and the A8 motorway make it easy to reach Nice by car from anywhere along the Riviera. Just keep in mind that parking in the city center can be tricky and often expensive, so it’s worth checking your hotel’s parking options ahead of time.

Whether you’re flying, taking the train, or driving, getting to Nice is straightforward and sets you up perfectly to explore the French Riviera.

Moving Around Nice

Nice is an easy city to get around, whether you prefer to walk, use public transport, or even drive for day trips along the coast.

• On Foot: The city center, old town (Vieux Nice), and Promenade des Anglais are best explored on foot. Wandering through the narrow streets, markets, and seaside paths is part of what makes Nice so charming.
• Public Transport: Nice has a good network of buses and trams that can take you across the city and even out to nearby towns. The tram lines are modern and convenient, especially Tram Line 2, which runs from the airport to the city center. Tickets are affordable and can be bought at machines at stops.
• By Bike or Scooter: Nice also has bike-share and electric scooter options that are perfect for short trips along the seafront or through the flat parts of town.
• By Car: While you don’t really need a car to explore Nice itself, having one can be useful if you want to do day trips along the Riviera—to places like Monaco, Eze, Antibes, or Cannes. Just be aware that parking in central Nice can be limited and pricey, so plan ahead if you’re driving.
• Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus: A clever option to freely move around is the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus, which loops around many of the best things to do in Nice. It’s an easy way to cover more ground without worrying about navigating public transport or traffic.

Nice is well set up for visitors, making it easy to enjoy at your own pace without stress.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit Nice

Nice is a fantastic destination year-round, thanks to its Mediterranean climate, but each season has its own feel. Here’s what to expect:

• Spring (March to May): Mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 12–20 °C (54–68 °F). This is one of the best times to visit, with blooming flowers, comfortable weather for walking, and fewer crowds than summer.
• Summer (June to August): Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 23–30 °C (73–86 °F). This is peak season, bringing lively streets, busy beaches, and lots of events. It’s great for swimming and nightlife, but expect more tourists and higher prices.
• Autumn (September to November): Still very comfortable, with temperatures around 14–24 °C (57–75 °F). The sea stays warm into early autumn, and the crowds start to thin out. It’s a lovely time for strolling the Promenade des Anglais and exploring the old town without the summer rush.
• Winter (December to February): Mild compared to much of Europe, with temperatures around 8–14 °C (46–57 °F). While swimming is off the table, you’ll enjoy quieter streets, festive Christmas markets, and lower accommodation prices.

We visited in May and loved the comfortable weather, bright sunshine, and more relaxed vibe before the summer crowds arrived.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay in Nice

We’d recommend staying near the old part of Nice (Vieux Nice) to really soak up the city’s charm. You’ll be close to the markets, narrow winding streets, cafés, and just steps from the Promenade des Anglais and the beach.

Here are our favorite places to stay in Nice for different budgets:

• (€):  Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice: A great budget-friendly choice right in the heart of the old town. Comfortable, well-equipped studios make it perfect for longer stays or anyone wanting a little extra space.
• (€€): Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel: Stylish and modern with a fantastic location on Place du Palais de Justice. A perfect blend of location, comfort, and design that feels special but not over-the-top.
• (€€€): Hotel Le Negresco; A Riviera icon on the Promenade des Anglais. Historic grandeur, art-filled interiors, and classic service make this a truly memorable splurge for your stay in Nice.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nice.

What to Eat in Nice

Nice shares the same rich culinary traditions as the rest of the French Riviera, so you’ll find Mediterranean flavors everywhere you go. Expect plenty of fresh fish and seafood, colorful vegetable dishes, and classic Provençal touches with olive oil, herbs, and sun-ripened produce. Meat dishes are also well represented, making it easy to find something for every taste.

If you want to dive deeper into the local flavors, you can even try the Provençal Food Walking Tour with Tastings, which is a fun way to sample different specialties while learning about the city’s food culture.

Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Nice:

• Hobbo Coffee – Great for a relaxed coffee or light bite in a modern, welcoming space.
• Le Panier – Cozy, with delicious Mediterranean and Provençal-inspired dishes.
• La Cantine de Mémé – A friendly spot offering well-prepared local favorites in a casual setting.
• Pappagallo – Tasty Italian options with fresh pasta and a warm atmosphere.

Tip: Try the Provençal Food Walking Tour with Tastings.

Best things to do in Nice

Start at the Marché Aux Fleurs on Cours Saleya

Let’s start this full day of adventure in Nice with one of the best things to do: visiting the Marché aux Fleurs on Cours Saleya. Since 1861, locals have been coming here to shop, drawn by the good prices and the vibrant selection.

While it’s known for its beautiful flowers, the market also offers fresh fruits and vegetables, local breads, teas, spices, and more. The colorful stalls, lively atmosphere, and friendly vendors make it a perfect place to soak up the local vibe and maybe pick up a few Provençal treats for later. It’s an essential stop to experience the daily life and flavors of Nice.

Relax at Ponchettes Public Beach

Right outside the flower market lies Ponchettes Public Beach, the closest beach to Nice’s Old Town. It’s a lovely spot to chill on a sunny day, whether you’re visiting in autumn or winter for a peaceful walk and some sunshine, or planning to swim during the warmer spring and summer months.

With its pebbly shore and clear Mediterranean water, it offers classic Riviera charm just steps from the lively old town streets. It’s the perfect place to take a break, enjoy the sea views, and soak in the relaxed vibe of Nice.

Stop by the #ILoveNICE Sign

Following the tragic terrorist attack in Nice on July 14, 2016, the city launched the #ILoveNICE campaign as a way for locals and visitors to show solidarity and share their love for the city. The idea was simple: use the hashtag to post videos and photos on social media explaining why you love Nice.

The large I LOVE NICE sign has become a popular photo spot and symbol of local pride. When we were there, the sign had been specially decorated for the Tour de France, adding an extra splash of color and excitement. It’s an easy, meaningful stop right on the Promenade des Anglais—a great place to snap a photo and reflect on the city’s resilience and spirit.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nice.

Check Out the Solar Clock

Right where the #ILoveNICE sign is located, you’ll also find Nice’s interesting Solar Clock. It’s a clever and artistic installation that adds a little extra character to the spot.

Beyond the clock itself, this area offers one of the best views over Nice—looking out across the Promenade des Anglais, the sweeping curve of the Baie des Anges, and the old town. It’s a fantastic place to pause, take in the scenery, and snap a few photos that really capture the beauty of the French Riviera.

Climb Up to Colline du Château (Castle Hill)

Continuing with the best things to do in Nice, make sure to head up to Castle Hill. Take the stairs (or the convenient elevator) to reach this historic hilltop that offers some of the most stunning views over the city, the old town rooftops, the Promenade des Anglais, and the curve of the Baie des Anges.

At the top, you’ll find a large, shady park perfect for families with kids, plus plenty of benches and lawns for relaxing. The hill gets its name from the imposing fortifications that once stood here, which were destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706. This was the site of the entire medieval town before the settlement spread down to the waterfront from the 12th century onwards.

Stop at the Cascade de la Colline

On your way down from Castle Hill, be sure to stop at the Cascade de la Colline. This beautiful artificial waterfall is built on the site of a former castle keep, creating a dramatic and refreshing sight among the greenery.

Fed by waters from the Vésubie River, the cascade offers a lovely spot to pause and take in the cool spray, especially on a hot day. Kids love it, and it’s also a popular place for photos thanks to the way it tumbles over the stone cliffs with views of Nice in the background

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Explore the View Nice

The next stop in our list of the best things to do in Nice is diving right back into the heart of the old town. Also known as Vieux Nice, this area is the city’s lively, atmospheric core, full of narrow cobblestone streets and pastel-hued buildings.

You’ll find little shops selling Niçoise soaps, Provençal textiles, local meats, cheeses, and all sorts of treats that make wandering here a delight. It’s the perfect place to slow down, get a bit lost, and soak up the authentic local vibe.

Don’t miss the Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate), with its beautiful baroque façade and richly decorated interior. It’s a striking landmark that reflects the city’s history and culture.

If you want to dig even deeper, you might consider the Nice Old Town and Castle Hill: Guided Cultural Walking Tour. It’s a great way to learn more about the stories, architecture, and traditions that make this part of Nice so special.

Tip: Consider the Nice Old Town and Castle Hill: Guided Cultural Walking Tour.

Visit the Nice Cathedral

While strolling through the old town, be sure to make a stop at the Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate). This Catholic cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Nice and one of the old town’s most important landmarks.

Construction of the main part of the current cathedral began in 1650 and was completed in 1685. Its baroque façade and richly decorated interior reflect the city’s history and religious heritage.

Stroll Along the Promenade du Paillon

On your way toward the famous Place Masséna, be sure to take a walk along the Promenade du Paillon. This lovely green corridor cuts through the heart of Nice and offers a relaxing break from the busy city streets.

The promenade is lined with a rich variety of plants and trees, creating a lush, shaded space perfect for an easy stroll. You’ll find fountains, a large reflecting pool that’s especially photogenic, and a fantastic play area that makes it a hit with families

Explore Place Masséna

Place Masséna is the main square of Nice and a must-see during any visit. It serves as a central hub that beautifully connects the old town with the modern city center.

With its striking red façades, checkerboard paving, and elegant arcades, the square has a lively, elegant feel. It’s a popular meeting spot, surrounded by shops, cafés, and fountains, making it perfect for a stroll or a quick break while exploring the city. From here, it’s easy to head in any direction—toward the Promenade des Anglais, the old town, or further into the bustling downtown.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Relax in Jardin Albert 1er

Right next to Place Masséna, you’ll find the Jardin Albert 1er, one of Nice’s oldest public parks. Dating back to the 19th century, it’s a welcoming green space with mature trees, well-kept lawns, reflecting pools, and a charming old bandstand.

It’s a lovely spot to take a break from sightseeing, have a picnic, or just enjoy a quiet moment under the shade. In summer, the park often hosts open-air theater performances and public events, bringing a lively cultural vibe right to the city center.

Walk Along the Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is easily the most famous seaside promenade in France—and it’s a must when visiting Nice. Stretching about 7 km from the airport in the west to the Quai des États-Unis in the east, it hugs the beautiful curve of the Baie des Anges.

It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs while enjoying stunning views of the Mediterranean. Whether you want to stroll, cycle, or just sit on one of the iconic blue chairs watching the sea, the promenade is a classic Riviera experience. It’s lively yet relaxed, with palm trees, cafés, and beaches lining the entire route.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nice.

Take in the Views of Nice Port

You won’t necessarily need to head right into Nice Port, since you’ll already get some of the best views of it from Castle Hill. From up there, you can see the entire harbor laid out below you, with its mix of traditional fishing boats and sleek yachts.

The port is known for the gentle bobbing of colorful, old-fashioned fishing boats that bring timeless charm to the scene. It’s also framed by beautiful old buildings and offers a lovely perspective over some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Even if you’re just passing by or viewing it from above, it’s a classic part of Nice’s coastal character that you won’t want to miss.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Stop at the Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption

If you have a little extra time, the Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption is a lovely place to visit. Built between 1864 and 1879 by French architect Charles Lenormand (son of Louis Lenormand), it’s the largest church in Nice.

The basilica stands out with its striking neo-Gothic style, inspired by the great cathedrals of Paris and Angers. Its twin towers and detailed façade make it an impressive sight, while the interior offers a peaceful spot to step away from the busy streets

Admire the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice

The St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral is one of Nice’s most distinctive landmarks. This Eastern Orthodox cathedral is a striking reminder of the city’s historic ties to Russia.

Built in the early 20th century, it’s now property of the Russian Federation and is recognized as a national monument of France. The cathedral features classic onion domes, colorful façades, and richly detailed interiors. It currently belongs to the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate.

It’s a beautiful and unusual stop that adds a unique cultural layer to any visit to Nice, showing just how international and diverse the city’s history really is.

Hang Out at Place Giuseppe Garibaldi

Place Giuseppe Garibaldi is one of Nice’s most vibrant and historic squares. Named after the prominent Italian general and politician, it’s a lively spot surrounded by elegant 18th-century buildings with distinctive yellow façades.

The square is lined with restaurants and bars that spill out onto broad terraces, making it a perfect place to stop for a coffee, lunch, or evening drink while soaking up the local atmosphere. It’s also a great gateway between the old town and the modern city, making it an easy and rewarding stop on any Nice itinerary.

Explore Parc du Mont Boron

Parc du Mont Boron is a beautiful green escape that offers some of the best views along the Riviera. This communal forest was first planted in the second half of the 19th century—before that, the hillside was mainly used for grazing.

Today, it’s a popular spot for hiking and walking, with trails winding through pines and Mediterranean vegetation. From Fort du Mont Alban, perched on the hill, you’ll get a truly unique panorama stretching from Italy to the Estérel mountains. The view takes in Villefranche harbor, the Cap-Ferrat peninsula, the city of Nice itself, and even the dramatic backdrop of the Alps.

Try a Perfume Making Workshop

For a truly unique and personal experience, join a Perfume Making Workshop in Nice. The French Riviera is famous for its perfume heritage, and in these workshops you’ll learn about the art of fragrance blending while creating your very own custom scent. It’s a fun, hands-on way to dive into local culture—and you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir that’s all your own.

Take a Tour to the Gorges du Verdon and Lavender Fields

If you have the time, consider a day trip to the Gorges du Verdon and the lavender fields of Provence. The Gorges du Verdon is often called Europe’s Grand Canyon, with dramatic turquoise river views and towering limestone cliffs—perfect for breathtaking photos and scenic stops.

During the summer, the surrounding fields bloom with endless rows of purple lavender, filling the air with their signature scent. Many guided tours depart from Nice, making it easy to enjoy this iconic Provençal landscape without worrying about the logistics. It’s a spectacular way to see more of the region’s natural beauty.

Visit the Hilltop Village of Eze

If you’re in Nice, one of the best nearby places to visit is the stunning village of Eze. Just 8.5 km northeast of Nice and 4.5 km west of Monaco, it’s an easy and rewarding side trip along the French Riviera.

Eze was one of the highlights of our time in the region. With its narrow, winding stone streets, medieval architecture, and old-town charm, it feels like stepping back in time. The village is perched high above the Mediterranean, offering dramatic views at every turn.

Be sure to visit the Exotic Garden at the very top of the town. The gardens themselves are beautiful, but the real reward is the breathtaking panoramic view over the coast. It’s absolutely worth the climb and makes Eze an unforgettable stop on any Riviera itinerary.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nice.

Explore Nearby Monaco

Monaco was an obvious stop on our itinerary since we’d never really visited it together—and of course, it was another country to add to our list! Just a short trip from Nice, it’s a fantastic destination with a lot to see packed into its tiny territory.

Monaco offers a mix of old-town charm, elegant palaces, and glamorous modern spots like Monte Carlo. Wander the historic streets of Monaco-Ville, visit the Prince’s Palace, check out the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, and soak up the stunning harbor views filled with luxury yachts.

If you don’t have a rental car, there are some great tour options that make visiting easy:

• From Nice: French Riviera in One Day – A convenient way to see multiple highlights along the coast.
• From Nice: Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip – Perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the essentials, including the charming hilltop village of Eze.

Read: All the best things to do in Monaco.

Discover the Charm of Menton

On the other side of Monaco, right near the Italian border, you’ll find the lovely town of Menton. It’s a fantastic day trip from Nice, known for its sunny beaches, lush gardens, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe.

One highlight is the Serre de la Madone garden, filled with exotic plants and quiet, shaded paths perfect for an afternoon stroll. In the eastern part of town, the hilly, medieval old town offers winding lanes and colorful buildings, with sights like the Basilique Saint-Michel and its striking 18th-century bell tower, as well as the beautifully ornate façade of La Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs.

For art lovers, the Musée Jean Cocteau collection Séverin Wunderman showcases works by the famous poet and artist in a bright, modern space right by the sea. Menton’s mix of Riviera elegance, historic charm, and relaxed pace makes it well worth the visit.

Take a Day Trip to Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is one of the Riviera’s most famous coastal towns, perfect for a stylish day trip from Nice if you have the time. Long popular with artists, it became the playground of the international “jet set” in the 1960s and is still known today for its beaches, nightlife, and glamorous atmosphere.

Wander through the cobblestoned La Ponche quarter to get a feel for its roots as a quiet fishing village—even though these days, sleek yachts far outnumber fishing boats in the Vieux Port (Old Port). Lively markets, chic boutiques, and waterfront cafés complete the classic Saint-Tropez experience.

Read: All the best things to do in Saint-Tropez

And that wraps up our guide to the best things to do in Nice! Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, Nice and its surroundings offer so many ways to soak up the beauty, history, and incredible vibe of the French Riviera.

Nice Itinerary

Day 1:

• Wander through the Marché aux Fleurs on Cours Saleya.
• Walk along Ponchettes Public Beach.
• Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic city and sea views.
• Stop at the Cascade de la Colline waterfall.
• Explore Vieux Nice with its colorful streets and Nice Cathedral.
• Stroll the Promenade du Paillon to Place Masséna.
• Relax in Jardin Albert 1er.
• Finish with a sunset walk on the Promenade des Anglais.

Day 2:

• Visit Place Giuseppe Garibaldi for coffee and people-watching.
• Check out the Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, the largest church in Nice.
• Admire the onion domes of Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice.
• Head to Nice Port for classic Riviera harbor views.
• Explore Parc du Mont Boron for hiking trails and panoramic lookouts over Villefranche and Cap Ferrat.

Day 3:

• Take a side trip to Eze, a stunning medieval hilltop village with winding streets and breathtaking views.
• Visit the Exotic Garden of Eze at the top for panoramic scenery over the Mediterranean.
• Optional stop at a local perfumery in Eze for a Perfume Making Workshop experience.

Day 4:

• Hop over to Monaco for the day.
• Explore Monaco-Ville with the Prince’s Palace, Jardins Saint-Martin, and Cathédrale de Monaco.
• Check out the Oceanographic Museum.
• Wander Monte Carlo to see the Casino de Monte-Carlo and elegant squares.
• Relax at Larvotto Beach before heading back to Nice.

Day 5:

• Take the train or drive to Menton, near the Italian border.
• Stroll the old town’s narrow streets with colorful buildings.
• Visit the Basilique Saint-Michel and Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs.
• Wander through lush gardens like the Serre de la Madone.
• Explore the Musée Jean Cocteau along the waterfront.

Day 6:

• Head to Saint-Tropez for a day trip along the coast.
• Wander the La Ponche old quarter with its narrow lanes.
• Enjoy the busy Vieux Port filled with yachts and cafés.
• Relax on one of Saint-Tropez’s famous beaches.
• Soak up the chic Riviera vibe that’s drawn artists and jet-setters for decades.

Day 7:

• Enjoy fields of blooming lavender during summer, filling the air with its signature scent.
• Join a guided day trip to the Gorges du Verdon and Provence’s Lavender Fields (in season).
• Marvel at dramatic canyon views and turquoise river scenery.
• Stop at charming Provençal villages along the way.