Travel to Nice, France

Nice is a beautiful city located in the south of France, on the French Riviera. Known for its stunning beaches, Mediterranean climate, and rich history, Nice is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip to Nice. Read below about:

  • Where to stay in Nice?
  • What to see in Nice?
  • Where to eat in Nice?
  • Popular cities nearby Nice

Nice is a beautiful city with something for everyone. From the beaches and waterfront promenades to the historic Old Town and stunning national park, there is plenty to see and do in this charming French Riviera destination.

How to get to Nice?
Nice has an international airport, with regular flights from major cities in Europe and beyond. The airport is located just a few kilometers outside the city center, and there are several options for ground transportation, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. If you’re coming from within France, you can also take a train to Nice’s main train station, which is located in the heart of the city.

Where to Stay in Nice?

Nice has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. If you’re looking for a beachfront location, check out the hotels and resorts along the Promenade des Anglais. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in the Old Town, which is filled with charming streets, shops, and restaurants.

Here are some hotel recommendations for your trip to Nice:

  • Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée: This luxurious hotel is located on the Promenade des Anglais and offers stunning sea views. The hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center, and is within walking distance of many popular attractions.
  • Hotel Negresco: This iconic hotel is situated on the Promenade des Anglais and boasts a unique art collection featuring over 6,000 pieces of art. The hotel also features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the sea and the city.
  • Hotel Le Negresco: Located in the heart of Nice, this hotel offers a charming and elegant atmosphere. The hotel features a private beach, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a bar with live music.
  • La Perouse: This boutique hotel is located on the edge of the old town and overlooks the sea. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with stunning views, a pool, and a spa.
  • Hotel Aston La Scala: This modern hotel is located in the heart of the city and features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city and the sea. The hotel also has a fitness center and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

What to see in Nice?

One of the top attractions in Nice is the Promenade des Anglais, a beautiful waterfront boulevard that stretches for several kilometers along the coast. The Promenade is lined with beaches, cafes, and shops, and is a great place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

The Old Town of Nice is another must-see attraction, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming squares. Be sure to check out the Cours Saleya market, which takes place every day and is a great place to sample local produce, flowers, and other goods.

For art lovers, the Matisse Museum is a must-visit. The museum houses a collection of works by the famous French painter Henri Matisse, and is located in a beautiful 17th-century villa.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions to see in Nice:

  • Promenade des Anglais: A beautiful seafront promenade stretching 7 kilometers along the Baie des Anges. The perfect spot for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • Old Town (Vieille Ville): A charming and historic area with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and many restaurants, cafes, and shops.
  • Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau): A hill overlooking Nice offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. You can take the stairs or a lift to reach the top.
  • Matisse Museum (Musée Matisse): A museum dedicated to the works of the famous artist Henri Matisse, with a large collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
  • Marc Chagall National Museum (Musée National Marc Chagall): A museum showcasing the works of the Russian-French artist Marc Chagall, including his famous Biblical Message series.
  • Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate): A beautiful Baroque-style cathedral located in the Old Town.
  • Russian Orthodox Cathedral (Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe): A stunning cathedral with onion-shaped domes, built by the Russian aristocracy in the early 20th century.
  • Place Masséna: A large square in the heart of the city with beautiful architecture and a fountain.
  • Cours Saleya: A bustling flower and food market in the Old Town, open every day except Monday.
  • Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC): A museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with works by artists such as Andy Warhol and Yves Klein.

Finally, if you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, head to the Parc du Mercantour, a stunning national park located just a short drive from Nice. The park is filled with hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Where to Eat in Nice?

Nice is known for its delicious cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and Mediterranean flavors. Be sure to try the famous Niçoise salad, which typically includes tuna, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies, and other local ingredients.

For a classic French dining experience, check out La Merenda, a cozy bistro located in the Old Town. The menu changes regularly, but typically features traditional French dishes made with local ingredients.

Another popular restaurant in Nice is Chez Acchiardo, which serves classic Niçoise cuisine in a family-owned setting. Be sure to try the homemade ravioli, which is a local favorite.

Popular cities nearby Nice

Nice is located in the south of France, and there are many other beautiful and interesting cities and towns to visit nearby. Here are some popular ones:

  • Cannes: Located about 30 kilometers southwest of Nice, Cannes is famous for its beaches, luxurious hotels, and the Cannes Film Festival.
  • Monaco: A small independent city-state located about 20 kilometers east of Nice, Monaco is known for its lavish lifestyle, casinos, and the famous Monaco Grand Prix.
  • Antibes: Located about 20 kilometers southwest of Nice, Antibes is a charming coastal town with a historic old town, beautiful beaches, and the famous Picasso Museum.
  • Saint-Tropez: Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Nice, Saint-Tropez is a glamorous coastal town with beautiful beaches, high-end boutiques, and a lively nightlife.
  • Aix-en-Provence: Located about 170 kilometers northwest of Nice, Aix-en-Provence is a picturesque town known for its charming old town, lively markets, and famous residents such as Cézanne and Hemingway.
  • Avignon: Located about 220 kilometers northwest of Nice, Avignon is a historic town known for its medieval architecture, the famous Palais des Papes, and the annual Avignon Festival.
  • Marseille: Located about 200 kilometers west of Nice, Marseille is France’s second-largest city and a bustling port town with a rich cultural heritage, lively markets, and great food.

I hope this list gives you some ideas for places to visit on your trip to the south of France!

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