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Visit Nice

Nissa la Bella

  • Tour

  • 7,1 km

  • 2h50

  • 27 audios

00 plan nice

27 places of interest to discover while visiting Nice in one day

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At the mere mention of Nice you feel like you’re on your way to “la dolce Vita à la française”. From its origins in the Greek trading city of Nikaia to its time under Roman rule as Cemenelum, Nice has experienced a tapestry of different rulers before becoming part of France. Today, it stands as the capital of the French Riviera and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its picturesque alleyways against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, where inviting restaurant terraces tempt you to indulge in the culinary wonders of land and sea. With its Italian Baroque heritage, its 600 Art Deco Buildings from the Roaring Twenties and its contemporary works, Nice is a blend of styles and cultures, bathed by unique sunlight.

  • 08 eglise du gesu nice poi petit

    1. Gesù Church

    This little blue parish is the Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur church, commonly known as Gesu church. Its history began with that of a nicois merchant, who gave a significant amount of money to the Jesuits of Nice to found a college. Read more

  • 09 maison adam et eve nice poi petit

    2. Adam and Eve House

    At the corner of “rue de la barillerie” and “rue de la Poissonnerie”, you can admire the only remaining relic of the old tradition of painted houses. During the middle age and the Renaissance, it was common to sculpt bas-reliefs inspired by the Read more

  • 10 marche du cours saleya nice poi petit

    3. Saleya Avenue

    You are now on Saleya Avenue. It was built at the start of the 18th century, on the space left by the surrounding wall. Buildings open to the public were built along the shore, and by the end of the 18th century, Saleya Avenue became a trendy Read more

  • 13 promenade du paillon nice poi petit

    5. Paillon Promenade

    From where you stand, you may not be able to grasp this, but when viewed from above, the Paillon Promenade resembles an expansive green carpet unfurled across the city. This gigantic urban park connects the Modern and Contemporary Art Read more

  • 12 place du palais de justice nice poi petit

    6. Courthouse square

    You arrive on Courthouse Square. This plaza was built in 1892 on the site of the old Dominican convent, and is overlooked by the imposing Courthouse. Right next to it you’ll see the “Oulivier” an artwork by artist Laurent Bosio which was Read more

  • 15 jardin albert 1er nice poi petit

    7. Albert I garden

    Created in 1852, Albert I Garden is one of the oldest public garden of Nice. The first one ever was born in 1828 on castle hill. Back in the day, taking a walk was the favorite physical activity of foreign winter tourists. Read more

  • 14 place massena nice poi petit

    8. Massena square

    Under this sublime and mesmerizing checkboard plaza flows the Paillon. It was buried many years ago for health reasons. This entirely pedestrian square allows us to get from old Nice to the modern part of town pleasantly. Read more

  • 16 rue de france et croix de marbre nice poi petit

    9. “Rue de France” and “Marble cross”

    This street is named “Rue de France”, as it led to the border prior to Nice’s annexation to France. You now enter into new Nice, so no more paved streets or italian orange facades! This street, parallel from the sea, is framed with numerous Read more

  • 17 promenade des anglais nice poi petit

    10. Promenade des Anglais

    Here it is : Nice’s true star, the famous Promenade des Anglais : The English walkway. Fringing the “Baie des Anges” and its blue infinity, it invites you to contemplate as you wander. From the 18th century on, British aristocrats started leaving Read more

  • 18 monument du centenaire nice poi petit

    11. Centenary Monument

    The commemorative monument that you see here is the “centenary monument”. You can see 2 women at the base of the pyramid. They are both allegories of Nice surrendering itself to France. Take a closer look to France. Read more

  • 19 les 9 lignes obliques nice poi petit

    12. Les neuf lignes obliques

    This imposing steel sculpture was commissioned by the mayor of Nice to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Nice's annexation to France. It was installed in 2010, and each of its lines represents one of the nine valleys that formed the County of Read more

  • 20 opera de nice poi petit

    13. Nice Opera

    The Opera that stands before you today has gone through several changes since it was first built. The story begins in 1776, when the King of Sardinia allowed the Marquioness Alli-Maccarani to transform her house into a little wooden theater. Read more

  • 21 replique de la statue de la liberte nice poi petit

    14. Replica of the statue of Liberty

    You now find yourself in front of a replica of the famous statue of Liberty. For sure it is a replica, but it’s not a fake one ! Indeed, it was signed by Bartholdi, the artist behind the actual Statue of Liberty. After Paris, Colmar, Tokyo Read more

  • 22 i love nice poi petit

    15. I LOVE NICE

    Every self-respecting city has to have an instagrammable spot, bearer of the famous hashtag. You are here on Rauba Capeu dock Square. It was originally a hiking trail dug inside of stone. Today, you will find a beautiful blue, white and red Read more

  • 23 ascenseur gratuit nice poi petit

    16. Free Elevator

    You have to climb up all the way to the top of Castle Hill to be able to enjoy the best view over Nice. This place is such a highlight that Nice went so far as to  install a free elevator so that nobody misses it!! You can take it, or use the stairs. Read more

  • 24 PDV nice poi petit

    17. View from the Bellanda Tower

    Here you are, on the first belvedere of Castle Hill Park. You can admire the clear view that opens up from Bellanda Tower. This tower was entirely part of Nice’s landscape. It has been widely represented in paintings and photography since the Read more

  • 25 cascade du chateau nice poi petit

    18. Castle’s waterfall

    The waterfall that brings you freshness is artificial, but really pleasant. It was commissionned by King Charles Felix of Savoy during the 19th century. He wanted to expand and embellish his city. He gave the hill and its ruins to the municipality Read more

  • 26 colline du chateau nice

    19. Castle Hill

    The phocean greeks have settled on that hill, overlooking the sea. The first inhabitants of Nice called it “Nikaia”, meaning “she through whom victory arrives” in ancient Greek! At that time, Nice was already sought after by the neighboring Read more

  • 27 PDV nice poi petit

    20. View over Nice’s harbor

    On the Eastern side of the Park is the beautiful Lympia Harbor, along with the fabulous seaside, and Nice’s lighthouse. You can also see the long Frank Pilatte boulevard, running along side the sea, around Mount Boron and Cape Nice. Read more

  • 01 port lympia nice poi petit

    21. Port Lympia

    What could be more peaceful than a walk along the harbor. The old port of Nice lends itself perfectly to such an experience. It was built during the 18th century, right at the foot of the ancient citadel. Along with Cannes’ harbor, Port Lympia is Read more

  • 03 place garibaldi nice poi petit

    23. Garibaldi Square

    Nice’s history is closely intertwined with that of Italy. In 1780, the King of Sardinia, Victor Amadeus III, decided to build a road from Turin to Nice. He requested a great square to welcome the travelers that used this royal road. Read more

  • 04 rue pairoliere nice poi petit

    24. Pairolière street

    Here you are in one of Old town’s most iconic streets! During the Middle Ages, it housed the coppersmith’s guild, or “parouliers” in Niçois dialect, hence the name of the street. Today, the narrow and oh-so-typical street is lined with food shops. Read more

  • 05 les boulets de canon nice poi petit

    25. The Cannonball

    Pay close attention to the corner of “rue Droite” and “Rue de la Loge”. Behold, what you witness before you is an authentic cannonball firmly lodged within the wall. It was fired during the Siege of Nice by the Turkish fleet in 1543. Read more

  • 06 palais lascaris nice poi petit

    26. Lascaris Palace

    You are now in what used to be Nice’s main street during the 17th century. It linked the harbor to Garibaldi Square. Its name “Rue Droite” comes from the mistranslation of “Nissart Drecha”, which means “Direct street”, contrary to its current Read more

  • 07 cathedrale sainte reparate nice poi petit

    27. Sainte-Réparate Cathedral

    Rossetti Square exudes an Italian charm, Ochre facades, flower-filled balconies, ancient fountain and cafés : it sure feels as if you were there! Saint – Reparate is the cathedral’s patron saint. She also is the one of Florence, and several other Read more

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Recommended starting point

No need to worry about where to begin! Our tours are designed as a loop, so you can jump in wherever you are. The navigation system and audio-guide will automatically adjust to your location. However, if you happen to be nearby, we do have a preferred starting point: Guynemer Square

Recommended parking

Le Phare parking lot, on Guynemer square

Visit info

This visit will take you along the beautiful Promenade du Paillon followed by the Albert Ier Gardens. Please note that access to the promenade is closed after 9:00 pm, and that the gardens close at 11:00 pm. If you wish to visit after these hours, you can walk along Boulevard Jean Jaurès instead, and then go towards Avenue de Suède via Avenue Gustave V.

Got Some Extra Time?

Once the historic center holds no more secrets for you, why not continue your exploration of Nice? Here are some must-see recommendations in the surrounding area!

 

Art museums of the French Riviera

If you’re fond of art, you’re probably well aware that the region has inspired many artists. One of the region’s absolute staples is the Matisse Museum in Nice. Housed in a magnificent 17th-century Genoese house, you’ll discover the personal collection of the artist who was fascinated by the light of Nice all his life. Another highlight is the Chagall Museum, set comfortably in the heart of a lush natural

setting. It’s a journey into the enchanting world of this painter, through 800 of his works, the world’s largest collection dedicated to this artist. You can also visit Antibes, 28km from Nice, to discover the Château Grimaldi overlooking the sea, now home to the highly interesting Picasso Museum. In Cagnes-sur-Mer, you can visit the Auguste Renoir Museum, also housed in a splendid residence where the painter spent the last 12 years of his life. Surrounded by citrus and olive trees, you’ll discover Renoir’s original works, as well as his studio and furniture.

 

The coastal path

You have to experience Nice by sea. Don’t hesitate to explore the coast further! The coastal path, for example, is an excellent way to continue your voyage. Picturesque little stairs offer you a magnificent deep blue horizon, while you walk from the old port, to the Lazaret district.

 

French Riviera Observatory

If you want a panoramic view of Nice, then climb up to the French Riviera Observatory. At the top of Mont Gros, 375 meters above sea level, lies this astronomical observatory, built during the 19th century by Charles Garnier, with a dome designed by Gustave Eiffel. Several guided tours are available to learn more about astronomy and the various observation tools.

 

Backcountry

And don’t hesitate to explore the hilltop villages of the Nice backcountry. These ancient fortified towns, built around a castle atop a rocky cliff, are today medieval treasures full of charm. One of the most popular, overlooking the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, is the small village of Eze. Picturesque alleyways, an incredible tropical garden and breathtaking views await you on this getaway. Just 25 minutes away from Nice, at an altitude of 376 meters, you can also visit the village of Peillon. Here, you’ll see the Church of the Transfiguration, built on the site of the old castle keep, and can visit the old well-preserved oil and flour mills. Just 40 minutes away from Nice and at an altitude of 650 metres, you’ll find one of France’s most beautiful villages: Coaraze. Nicknamed the town of sundials, you’ll find many artists’ workshops devoted to leatherwork, pewter and engraving.

 

Train of Wonders

If you want to discover the surrounding area as far as the Mercantour Park, there’s a spectacular way to do it, and that’s to take the famous “train des Merveilles”, which roughly translates to “train of Wonders”. It connects Nice to Tende. The train departs from sea level and climbs to over 1,000 meters above sea level, criss-crossing the valley as close as possible to the mountains. At certain times, tour guides comment on the points of interest you get close to. If you don’t have time to wander too far, a stop in Sospel is well worth the detour. This village, once an important stage on the salt route between Nice and Turin, gives you a taste of Italy. You’ll see one of Europe’s last fortified bridges, and the beautiful baroque cathedral of Saint-Michel, home to the altarpiece of the Immaculate Virgin.

 

Lazaret Cave

And why not take a bigger leap back in time and venture into the prehistoric Lazaret cave at the foot of Mount Boron. Admission is free, and allows you to discover the major stages of human evolution, life in the cave, the environment and biodiversity.

 

Nice is full of cultural and gastronomic treasures. Here are our suggestions to extend your getaway!

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Location: 37, Promenade des Anglais – Nice, France

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Frequently asked questions

Where to eat in Nice?

When traveling to Nice, the city’s specialties quickly become a key part of your culinary discovery. Most local restaurants are located near Rue Jules Gilly and Rue Raoul Bosio: delicious dishes such as salade niçoise, fougasse, and socca are served on silver plates, immersed in a warm atmosphere. In terms of value for money, it’s a great deal for you: large portions for a low price! You should also try Rue Smolett, where establishments have impeccable staff. It is also here that you will find some of the best chefs in the region… Needless to say, the cuisine is refined, carefully prepared, and exquisite once in your mouth.

Where to stay in Nice?

When you are not familiar with the city of Nice, it can be difficult to know which neighborhood to choose for your stay. However, your trusted travel companion, Navaway, is here to help and knows your needs: an affordable hotel, close to monuments and tourist sites to visit, welcoming, with cozy and spacious rooms… Vieux-Nice is undoubtedly the most popular area for tourists: with its starred hotels, close to the city’s most delicious restaurants, as well as bars and shopping boutiques. If you visit during the high season, around the summer holidays, it’s possible that most hotels will already be booked. But don’t worry! Opt for the Promenade des Anglais, a less known area, but one where the hotel rooms are sure to steal your heart.

What to do in Nice when it rains?

Ahh, the rain… that good old rain that sometimes seems never-ending. If you’re traveling in Nice and it happens to be experiencing a few showers, don’t panic. A few drops of water won’t stop you from enjoying your stay. The rain will push you towards the city’s museums, where you can learn more about the history of Nice and enrich your general knowledge: the photography museum, the prehistory museum, or even the naïve art museum… There are plenty of options! Also, if you prefer to stay active and are traveling with others, escape games are the perfect remedy for rainy days. These life-sized escape games are fun for both kids and adults. You can also head to the ice rink or simply wander through one of Nice’s many shopping malls.

What to do around Nice?

If you stay in Nice for several days, you must absolutely visit the must-see spots around this majestic region, one of the favorite destinations for tourists coming to France. Several villages are located just a few minutes from the city, such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, about 5 minutes east of Nice. It’s easily recognized by its small colorful houses facing the sea, giving it a postcard-like appearance. Visitors love strolling through the narrow streets and admiring the Saint-Elme Citadel. Another village to explore? The perched village of Èze, resembling a medieval town, leaves no visitor indifferent: its somewhat picturesque location, as it sits on a rocky spur overlooking the sea, gives it an original and unique feel.

How to get to Nice and how to get from the airport to the city center?

The most common means of transportation to get to Nice is undoubtedly the train: fast, economical (if you book in advance), relatively comfortable, and it allows you to easily reach the main train station, Nice-ville. This station is connected to many major French cities, such as Marseille-Nice, Lyon-Nice, and of course, Paris-Nice. You can travel by TGV INOUI, TER, and OUIGO Grande Vitesse. If you’re traveling by plane, keep in mind that flight tickets can be quite affordable if you book early enough. Once at the airport, visitors typically use the tram, which reaches the city center in less than 30 minutes. For your information, a tram departs for the airport approximately every 8 minutes.

How to get around the city and where to park in Nice?

Although walking is highly recommended, we understand that some people prefer to use less tiring and inexpensive means of transport. In Nice, the most common mode of transport is the bus: after all, there are nearly 140 bus lines across the 51 municipalities of the Nice Côte d’Azur metropolitan area, which is quite impressive! There is also the tram, easy to use and even faster than the bus: there are 3 tram lines connecting various parts of the city. And of course, if you’ve chosen to rent a car, there are 9 park-and-ride lots where you can easily park and then reach the city center either on foot or by bus. Among them are the Azur Vauban park, the Pont Michel park, and the Henri Sappia park.

Where to go to the beach in Nice?

Nice is a dream destination, and for one very specific reason. Yes, we all love this city with its rich cultural heritage, its great gastronomy, and its pleasant streets to wander, especially in the summer… But THE thing that all visitors enjoy doing here is spending a day (or even two or three) at the beach. Yes, Nice is known for its beautiful beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear water, where gentle waves playfully touch your toes. The first gem to recommend is Voilier Plage. It’s the perfect family beach, where you’ll find families with young children, as the water is calm and safe. There’s also Plage du Carras, with waves so blue they will steal your heart. If you’re looking for a private beach, Plage Les Canailles (what a fun name) will offer you a unique experience in an authentic natural setting.

What to do and see in Nice in 3 days?

One day would clearly not be enough to explore the city of Nice. At least 3 days are needed to see the various monuments, tourist sites, and squares the city has to offer. On the first day, let yourself be carried by the wind as you stroll along the few meters that separate you from the lively city center. This is your chance to familiarize yourself with the city, get your bearings, and chat with the always-smiling locals. In the evening, visit one of the museums, such as the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, for a little cultural exploration full of emotions. On the second day, why not indulge in a beach excursion? Because let’s face it, Nice has plenty of them! You’ll find an array of large stretches of water ready to welcome you. Finally, for your last day, opt for a must-do activity that you’ll remember for years to come: climb the Castle Hill!

What to do and see in Nice in 5 days?

Visiting Nice in five days! There’s plenty to do! This will allow you to explore the city more thoroughly, spend one or two days relaxing on the beach, do a must-see and unique activity, and even venture outside the city to visit its charming villages. Vieux-Nice? You absolutely have to take a stroll through the oldest district, easily recognizable by its ochre facades that protect you from the summer sun. One important tip: this is apparently where you’ll find the best ice cream shops in Nice! There’s also the opportunity to visit various museums, particularly the Palais Lascaris, the museum of musical instruments in Nice par excellence. A baroque gem that is a source of pride for the city’s residents. For your last days, opt either for a “chill” activity, like going to the beach, or a unique experience like visiting the Lazaret Cave: a lesser-known archaeological site, kept secret by some, but still open for visits for the more adventurous among you!

When to visit the city and what to visit for free?

It’s always a great time to visit the French Riviera, no matter the season. The temperatures remain mild throughout the year. However, summer offers the hottest temperatures, perfect for beach days or excursions around the city. But if you want to avoid the high tourist season, the months of January and February are ideal. As for free attractions, a visit to Vieux-Nice remains a must-do activity, allowing you to explore the oldest and undoubtedly the most charming neighborhood of the city. Want to escape the city for a bit and experience something different? The Botanical Garden, along with the 3,000 species that make up its zoo, opens its doors to you. You can also head to the Promenade des Anglais, often described by many as “one of the most representative of the beauty of the city of Nice.”

Jet ski rental in Nice: how to do it and where?

The sea and Nice go hand in hand! So, of course, when you think of the beach, you think of water sports, including jet skiing. However, you may not know how to go about it or where to turn. Don’t worry, Navaway has got you covered! If you’re traveling in the summer, it’s best to book your jet ski outing early—either by calling a rental agency directly or booking online. A recommended agency? “Jet Evasion Nice” offers very affordable rates. Once your reservation is made, all you have to do is head to the location to pick up your jet ski and follow the guide for your excursion. And don’t worry, you don’t need a license to ride a jet ski!

Which cities to visit around Nice?

Nice is a dream destination for its lush beaches, charming ice cream shops, ancient streets, and endless stores… But the surrounding areas are just as interesting, especially thanks to the small towns to visit. First of all, Monaco remains undoubtedly the most famous and most visited around Nice. Unique in its own way, it’s THE dream destination with its chic boutiques, luxurious casinos, and a setting straight out of a princess movie. There’s also the city of Antibes, one of the most beautiful on the French Riviera (along with Nice, of course): a perfect spot for wandering, strolling, or even getting lost among its flower-filled streets and stone houses. Finally, the city of Cannes is quite close to Nice and makes for an interesting detour, perfect for a few hours of shopping while sipping a cocktail on a terrace with a stunning view of the sea.

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