Explore Nice, France in a Day: Essential One-Day Itinerary
Nice, France
1 days
About Nice, France
Nice, the jewel of the French Riviera, offers a blend of old-world opulence, artistic charm, and Mediterranean vibes. This vibrant city is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunshine. The Promenade des Anglais, a palm-lined stretch, is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the old town, Vieux Nice, is a maze of narrow streets filled with vibrant markets and quaint eateries. Visit the Russian Orthodox Cathedral for a taste of Nice's rich history, or the Matisse Museum to explore the city's artistic heritage. Don't miss the panoramic views from Castle Hill. Nice's culinary scene is a gastronomic delight, with a mix of Provençal and Niçoise cuisine. Whether you're a beach lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Nice promises an unforgettable French Riviera experience.
1-Day Itinerary
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Promenade des Anglais
A famous walkway along the Mediterranean, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.
2Vieux Nice
Vieux Nice, also known as the Old Town, is the most historic part of Nice. With its narrow, winding streets filled with vibrant restaurants, shops, and galleries, it's a must-visit for tourists. Notable landmarks include the Palais Lascaris, the Nice Cathedral, and the Cours Saleya Market.
3Musée Matisse
Museum dedicated to the works of French artist Henri Matisse, located in a 17th-century villa in Cimiez.
4Castle Hill
A historic hilltop park offering panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges.
5Place Masséna
Main square of the city, known for its checkerboard floor pattern and surrounding shops.
6Port of Nice
Bustling port area with yachts, ferries to Corsica, and surrounding restaurants.
Local Food and Drinks (11)
Socca
A popular street food in Nice, Socca is a thin, crispy pancake made from chickpea flour and olive oil. It's a must-try for its unique, slightly nutty flavor.
Salade Niçoise
Originating from Nice, Salade Niçoise is a mixed salad consisting of various vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies, and/or tuna. It's a refreshing dish perfect for a light lunch.
Ratatouille
A traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish that originated in Nice. It's made from a variety of vegetables including tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
Pissaladière
A type of pizza that originated in Nice. It's typically topped with caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies, and is a popular snack or appetizer.
Pan Bagnat
A sandwich that is a specialty of the Nice region. It's essentially a Salade Niçoise on a bun, featuring ingredients like tuna, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and olives.
Bouillabaisse
A traditional Provençal fish stew originating from the port city of Marseille, but also popular in Nice. It's a hearty dish made with at least three types of fish and shellfish.
Tourte de Blettes
A sweet pie that is a specialty of Nice. It's made with Swiss chard, raisins, and pine nuts, and is a unique dessert that showcases the versatility of vegetables.
Daube
A traditional beef stew from Nice. It's slow-cooked in red wine with vegetables and served with pasta or polenta.
Farci Niçois
A traditional dish from Nice where vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers are stuffed with a mixture of bread crumbs, cheese, and meat.
Rosé de Provence
A light, dry rosé wine from the Provence region, which is close to Nice. It's a popular choice for wine lovers visiting the area.
Pastis
A popular anise-flavored aperitif in Nice and throughout the Provence region. It's typically diluted with water before drinking.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Nice, France, is typically between April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is the most pleasant and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months. The spring season offers a beautiful bloom of flowers, while the autumn season provides a stunning display of fall colors. However, if you enjoy swimming and other beach activities, July and August are the warmest months, but they are also the busiest.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 8 | Wed | WWII Victory Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
July 14 | Sun | Bastille Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Armistice Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Tram
Nice has an efficient and modern tram system that covers most of the city. There are three lines in operation, making it easy to get around. Trams run frequently, from early morning until around midnight.
Bus
The city's bus network, Lignes d'Azur, is extensive and serves not only Nice but also its surrounding cities. It's a convenient way to reach destinations that are not served by the tram.
Train
For longer distances, such as trips to other towns along the French Riviera, the train is a good option. Nice has several train stations, but the main one is Nice-Ville.
Bicycle
Nice has a public bicycle rental service, Vélo Bleu, which has stations throughout the city. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace, especially the Promenade des Anglais.
Car
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the region around Nice. However, parking can be difficult in the city center, and traffic can be heavy, especially during the summer.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Nice. This can be a convenient option for getting to and from the airport, or for trips when public transportation is not convenient.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Nice, although they can be more expensive than other forms of transportation. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up at taxi stands.
Walk
Nice is a very walkable city, especially the city center and the Old Town (Vieux Nice). Walking is a great way to explore the city and take in the sights at your own pace.
Airport Shuttle
For getting to and from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, there are several shuttle bus services that run regularly throughout the day. These buses stop at several major points in the city.
Boat
For a different perspective of Nice and the French Riviera, consider taking a boat tour. There are several companies that offer tours, which can include stops at other towns along the coast.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Nice, France as a first time visitor
1
Nice is located in the French Riviera, on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea.
2
The official language is French, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
3
The currency used in Nice is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.
4
Nice has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from 50-59°F (10-15°C) in winter and 68-86°F (20-30°C) in summer.
5
Tipping is not mandatory in Nice as service charge is included in your bill, but it's customary to leave small change.
6
Public transportation in Nice is efficient and affordable. The city has a comprehensive bus and tram network.
7
Nice is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's wise to be cautious of your belongings and avoid less crowded areas at night.
8
The city is known for its cuisine, particularly dishes like Ratatouille and Salade Niçoise. Don't miss out on trying local food.
9
Nice is a pedestrian-friendly city with many areas only accessible by foot. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
10
The city's main airport is Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport, located about 6 km west of the city center.
11
Nice operates on Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time.
12
It's important to remember that in France, shops may close for a few hours in the afternoon for a break, particularly in smaller towns.
13
The city has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
14
Nice has a large number of museums and art galleries, reflecting its rich history and culture.
15
The city is also known for its markets, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts.
16
Nice has a number of beautiful beaches, but many are pebbly rather than sandy. Beach shoes might be useful.
17
The city is a great base for exploring the wider French Riviera, including Monaco and Cannes.
18
Nice has a relaxed dress code, but it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
19
Tap water is safe to drink in Nice, but bottled water is widely available.
20
Pharmacies in Nice are marked by a green cross and can provide advice and over-the-counter medication for minor ailments.
Basic French to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Bonjour | bon-zhoor | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Au revoir | oh ruh-vwahr | Saying goodbye |
Please | S'il vous plaît | see voo play | Making a request |
Thank you | Merci | mair-see | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Oui | wee | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Non | non | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Excusez-moi | ex-koo-zay mwah | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Je suis désolé | juh swee day-zo-lay | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | par-lay voo on-glay? | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Je ne comprends pas | juh nuh kom-prond pah | Expressing difficulty understanding |
Where is...? | Où est...? | oo ay...? | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Toilettes | twah-let | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Aide | ed | In case of emergency |
Can I have the bill, please? | L'addition, s'il vous plaît | la-dee-syon, see voo play | Asking for the bill at a restaurant |
Water | Eau | oh | Ordering water |
Food | Nourriture | noo-ree-toor | Talking about food |
Beer | Bière | byair | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vin | van | Ordering wine |
Cheers | Santé | sahn-tay | Making a toast |
Good night | Bonne nuit | bon nwee | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing
Sweater or light jacket
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Swimsuit
Beach towel
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Travel-sized body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Travel insurance documents
Hotel reservation confirmation
Emergency contact information
Map of Nice
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Water bottle
Travel guidebook for Nice
French phrasebook
Umbrella
Backpack or daypack
First-aid kit
Weather Conditions
Nice, France is known for its Mediterranean climate which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). It's the perfect time for beach activities, so don't forget your sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun. During the fall, from September to November, temperatures drop to between 54°F and 73°F (12°C to 23°C). It's a great time to explore the city and its surrounding areas, but remember to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Winter, from December to February, sees temperatures ranging from 41°F to 57°F (5°C to 14°C). While it's the wettest season, rainfall is usually light and brief. Pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella just in case. Spring, from March to May, is a delightful time to visit with temperatures between 50°F and 68°F (10°C to 20°C). The city starts to bloom and it's less crowded than the summer months. A light jacket or sweater should suffice for the cooler evenings. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast a few days before your trip to pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to Nice!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 15° / 7° | January is the coldest month in Nice, but it's still relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 7 to 15 degrees Celsius. It's a quiet time to visit, with fewer tourists around. |
February | 15° / 8° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, with lows of 8 degrees and highs of 15 degrees Celsius. It's still off-peak season, so it's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places. |
March | 17° / 10° | March marks the beginning of spring in Nice, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 17 degrees Celsius. The city starts to get busier, but it's still not as crowded as in the summer months. |
April | 20° / 12° | April is a pleasant month to visit Nice, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius. The city is in full bloom and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. |
May | 23° / 15° | May is a fantastic time to visit Nice, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 23 degrees Celsius. The city is lively, and the weather is perfect for beach activities. |
June | 27° / 18° | June marks the beginning of summer in Nice, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time to visit, with many outdoor events and festivals taking place. |
July | 30° / 21° | July is the hottest month in Nice, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit for beach lovers, but be prepared for crowds. |
August | 30° / 21° | August is equally hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's the peak tourist season, so expect the city to be bustling with visitors. |
September | 27° / 18° | September is a great time to visit Nice, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is still warm, but the crowds have started to thin out. |
October | 23° / 14° | October sees a drop in temperature, with lows of 14 degrees and highs of 23 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists. |
November | 18° / 10° | November is a quiet month in Nice, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 18 degrees Celsius. It's off-peak season, so it's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places. |
December | 16° / 8° | December is a cool month in Nice, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 16 degrees Celsius. The city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, making it a magical time to visit. |
Did you know?
Places near by Nice, France
Monaco
A tiny independent city-state on France’s Mediterranean coastline known for its upscale casinos, yacht-lined harbor and prestigious Grand Prix motor race.
Antibes
Known for its old town enclosed by 16th-century ramparts with the star-shaped Fort Carré. This overlooks luxury yachts moored at the Port Vauban marina.
Cannes
A city located on the French Riviera, it is known for its international film festival, its sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels.
Saint-Tropez
Known for its Mediterranean beaches and nightlife. The cobblestoned La Ponche quarter recalls its past as a fishing village.
Genoa
An important port city in Italy, it's known for its central role in maritime trade over many centuries.
Marseille
Known for its diverse culture and thriving arts scene. It's an important city in France with many historical buildings and structures.
Turin
Known for its refined architecture and cuisine. The Alps rise to the northwest of the city. Stately baroque buildings and old cafes line Turin's boulevards and squares.
Montpellier
Known for its stately buildings and centuries-old wine estates. It's a city near the south coast of France, on the Mediterranean Sea.
Milan
A global capital of fashion and design. It's a financial hub also known for its high-end restaurants and shops.
Barcelona
Known for its art and architecture. The fantastical Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí dot the city.
