Explore Nice, France in a Day: Essential One-Day Itinerary

Nice, France

1 days

Villefranche sur Mer. Seaside town on the French Riviera
Sunset view of coastline
Colorful buildings on french riviera
Nice coastline and beach
French Riviera coast with medieval town Villefranche sur Mer

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

Day 1

A Day in Nice: From the Promenade des Anglais to the Place Masséna

Morning

Start your day with a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a famous seafront esplanade offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and the beautiful sunrise. Don't forget to take some photos of the iconic blue chairs and palm trees that line the promenade.

Lunch

For lunch, head to the Old Town, known as Vieux Nice. Here, you can enjoy a traditional Niçoise meal at one of the many local bistros. The Old Town is also home to a daily market where you can sample local produce and specialties.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Musée Matisse, which houses a large collection of works by the French painter Henri Matisse. Then, take a leisurely walk up to the Castle Hill for panoramic views of the city and the bay.

Dinner

In the evening, dine at a restaurant in the Port area. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood and other Mediterranean dishes while overlooking the yachts and boats in the harbor.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Place Masséna, the city's main square, which is beautifully lit up at night. Enjoy a leisurely walk, do some window shopping, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Promenade des Anglais

1
Promenade des Anglais

A famous walkway along the Mediterranean, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Vieux Nice

2
Vieux 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.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Musée Matisse

3
Musée Matisse

Museum dedicated to the works of French artist Henri Matisse, located in a 17th-century villa in Cimiez.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Castle Hill

4
Castle Hill

A historic hilltop park offering panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges.

Attractions
Landmarks
Parks
Place Masséna

5
Place Masséna

Main square of the city, known for its checkerboard floor pattern and surrounding shops.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Port of Nice

6
Port of Nice

Bustling port area with yachts, ferries to Corsica, and surrounding restaurants.

Attractions
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Socca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Daube

A traditional beef stew from Nice. It's slow-cooked in red wine with vegetables and served with pasta or polenta.

Farci Niçois

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

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!

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Nice is the fifth most populous city in France?

1 of 10

Places near by Nice, France

Monaco

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.

30m
20 km / 12.4 mi
How to get there
Antibes

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.

40m
22 km / 13.7 mi
How to get there
Cannes

Cannes

A city located on the French Riviera, it is known for its international film festival, its sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels.

50m
33 km / 20.5 mi
How to get there
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez

Known for its Mediterranean beaches and nightlife. The cobblestoned La Ponche quarter recalls its past as a fishing village.

1.5h
112 km / 69.6 mi
How to get there
Genoa

Genoa

An important port city in Italy, it's known for its central role in maritime trade over many centuries.

2.5h
194 km / 120.5 mi
How to get there
Marseille

Marseille

Known for its diverse culture and thriving arts scene. It's an important city in France with many historical buildings and structures.

2.5h
204 km / 126.8 mi
How to get there
Turin

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.

3.5h
325 km / 201.9 mi
How to get there
Montpellier

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.

3.5h
350 km / 217.5 mi
How to get there
Milan

Milan

A global capital of fashion and design. It's a financial hub also known for its high-end restaurants and shops.

1.3h
320 km / 198.8 mi
How to get there
Barcelona

Barcelona

Known for its art and architecture. The fantastical Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí dot the city.

2.1h
673 km / 418.2 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in France