A Mediterranean city with sun-soaked beaches and a lively promenade. Explore the vibrant old town, savor local dishes like Pissaladière, and enjoy the French Riviera atmosphere.
Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, is known for its Mediterranean coastline and rich culture. You can stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore the winding streets of the Old Town, or visit museums housing works by Matisse and Chagall. The city's markets offer local Provençal cuisine, and with sunny weather most of the year, you can enjoy Nice's beaches and outdoor cafes. The city's location on the Côte d'Azur makes it a popular destination for those seeking a mix of urban and coastal experiences.
Walking the Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is a 7-kilometer stretch along the Mediterranean. This palm-lined walkway, dating back to the 1820s, was funded by English aristocrats. You can walk, jog, or cycle along "La Prom," with the sea on one side and Belle Époque buildings on the other. In the evenings, people gather on the promenade to watch the sunset over the Baie des Anges.
Discovering Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Nice's Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and colorful buildings. The Cours Saleya market, open six days a week, sells fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties. As you explore the alleys, you'll find small squares, baroque churches, and artisan shops. Take a break at a local café to try socca, a chickpea pancake unique to Nice, or cool off with a scoop of gelato, reflecting the city's Italian influences.
Visiting Castle Hill
For a view of Nice and the Côte d'Azur, climb or take the elevator to the top of Castle Hill (Colline du Château). Despite its name, no castle remains, but you'll find a park, an artificial waterfall, and remnants of the city's ancient past. From here, you can see Nice's curved bay, the Old Town's red roofs, and the Alps in the distance. Many visitors bring a picnic or come to watch the sunset over the city.
Exploring Nice's Museums
Nice has several museums reflecting its art scene. The Matisse Museum, in a 17th-century villa, displays works by Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for many years. The Marc Chagall National Museum features the artist's biblical-themed paintings. MAMAC (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art) exhibits works from the 1950s onwards. These museums showcase how artists responded to the light and landscapes of the French Riviera.
Tasting Niçoise Cuisine
Nice's food reflects French, Italian, and Provençal traditions. At the Libération market, you can see locals buying fresh produce and regional specialties. Try ratatouille, a vegetable stew, or pissaladière, an onion tart with olives and anchovies. For a quick meal, order a pan bagnat, which is essentially a Niçoise salad in a bun. Socca, the local chickpea flatbread, is best eaten hot from a wood-fired oven in the Old Town.
