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

The Promenade des Anglais is one of the most famous urban landscapes in the world. So much so that its image is inseparable from that of Nice itself. /n The azure of the sky and the sea, the curve of the Baie des Anges, the exotic vegetation and the unique light of the Côte d'Azur have inspired the greatest masters of painting.

A historic walkway along the Mediterranean, offering stunning views.

This park, also known as Castle Hill, is a beautiful green space offering panoramic views of Nice. It's also home to a waterfall, a playground, and the ruins of an old castle.

The Parc de la Colline du Château, also known as Castle Hill Park, is one of the most popular attractions in Nice. Located on a hill, the park offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or just sit and enjoy the view. The park is also home to a few historic ruins, including the remains of a cathedral and a castle. /n The park is easily accessible by foot or by taking a free elevator from the city. Once at the top, visitors can explore the park's many paths and enjoy its beautiful gardens. There's also a playground for children and a café where visitors can grab a bite to eat. The park is open year-round and admission is free.

A historic park offering panoramic views of Nice.

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

The Musée Matisse in Nice is a must-visit for any art lover. The museum is dedicated to the works of French artist Henri Matisse and houses one of the largest collections of his works in the world. The museum is located in a 17th-century villa in the Cimiez neighborhood, which was once home to Matisse himself. /n The museum's collection includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, and personal objects from Matisse's life. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages. The Musée Matisse is open year-round, with reduced hours in the winter months.

A museum dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse.

The historic heart of Villefranche-sur-Mer, featuring narrow winding streets, colorful facades, and traditional Provencal markets.

Old Town, or Vieux Nice, is the historic heart of Nice. This neighborhood is known for its narrow winding streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés to discover. /n The architecture in Old Town is a mix of Italian and French styles, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The neighborhood is also home to several historic sites, including the Palais Lascaris and the Cathedral of Saint Reparate. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just want to soak up the local culture, Old Town is a must-visit when in Nice.

The historic heart of Nice, filled with narrow winding streets and colorful buildings.

A bustling market offering fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties.

Cours Saleya Market is a vibrant outdoor market in the heart of Nice, France. Known for its lively atmosphere, the market offers a variety of local produce, flowers, and other goods. /n The market is also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

A vibrant outdoor market in the heart of Nice.

A museum showcasing a collection of modern and contemporary art.

The Modern and Contemporary Art Museum in Nice is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum showcases a wide range of modern and contemporary art, with a particular focus on the French Riviera. The museum's collection includes works by artists such as Yves Klein, Niki de Saint Phalle, and Arman. /n The museum is housed in a modern building in the heart of Nice, with four floors of exhibition space. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages. The museum is open year-round, with reduced hours in the winter months.

A museum showcasing modern and contemporary art.

Nice Observatory, located on the summit of Mont Gros, is a historic astronomical observatory. It offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the universe and learn about the history of astronomy.

The Nice Observatory is an astronomical observatory located on the summit of Mount Gros in Nice. The observatory was built in the late 19th century and is one of the oldest in France. It's a popular attraction for those interested in astronomy and offers guided tours. /n The observatory is home to a large telescope, which visitors can use to observe the night sky. The observatory also hosts regular events and workshops for visitors of all ages. The Nice Observatory is open year-round, with tours available by reservation.

An astronomical observatory offering guided tours.

A stunning Russian Orthodox church, known for its ornate decoration and beautiful domes.

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Nice is a national monument of France, located in the city's Carabacel district. /n Constructed in 1912 by Tsar Nicholas II, it is the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside Russia and is known for its stunning architecture and religious artifacts.

The largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside Russia.

A large park with a variety of plants and animals, including a tropical greenhouse.

Parc Phoenix is a large park and botanical garden located in Nice. The park covers 7 hectares and is home to a variety of animal species, including flamingos, wallabies, and iguanas. The park also features a large greenhouse, which houses a tropical rainforest and a variety of exotic plants. /n Parc Phoenix is a popular spot for families, with plenty of space for children to run around and a playground. The park also hosts regular events and workshops for visitors of all ages. Parc Phoenix is open year-round, with reduced hours in the winter months.

A large park and botanical garden with a variety of animal species.

Museum dedicated to the works of artist Marc Chagall, featuring biblical themes.

The Musée Marc Chagall in Nice is a must-visit for any art lover. The museum is dedicated to the works of Russian-French artist Marc Chagall and houses the largest public collection of his works. The museum's collection includes paintings, drawings, and sculptures, with a particular focus on Chagall's biblical themes. /n The museum is located in a modern building in the heart of Nice, with a beautiful garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the view. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages. The Musée Marc Chagall is open year-round, with reduced hours in the winter months.

A museum dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall.

Liberation is a vibrant neighborhood known for its bustling morning market, Marché de la Libération, where locals shop for fresh produce. It's also home to the Gare du Sud, a former railway station turned food and cultural hub.

Liberation is a vibrant neighborhood located in the heart of Nice. The neighborhood is known for its open-air market, where locals and tourists alike come to shop for fresh produce, local goods, and more. The market is open every day except Monday and is a great place to experience the local culture. /n In addition to the market, Liberation is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés. The neighborhood is easily accessible by public transportation and is a great place to explore on foot. Whether you're interested in shopping, dining, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, Liberation is a must-visit when in Nice.

A vibrant neighborhood known for its open-air market.

Promenade du Paillon is a 12-hectare urban park in Nice, France. It provides a green space and water features between the city's Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Théâtre National. The park is popular among locals and tourists for relaxation and leisure activities.

Promenade du Paillon is a large urban park located in the heart of Nice. The park covers 12 hectares and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It features a variety of landscapes, including a forest, a meadow, and a large water mirror. /n The park is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or just sit and relax. There's also a playground for children and plenty of benches where visitors can sit and enjoy the view. The park is open year-round and admission is free.

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.

Promenade des Anglais

Parc de la Colline du Château

Musée Matisse

Old Town

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a renowned seafront avenue offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the beautiful sunrise.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Parc de la Colline du Château. This park offers panoramic views of Nice and the surrounding coastline. Don't forget to try some local delicacies like socca or ratatouille.

Visit the Musée Matisse, which houses a large collection of works by the French artist Henri Matisse. The museum is located in a 17th-century villa in the Cimiez neighborhood.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nice in the Old Town. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local bistro, where you can try traditional Niçoise cuisine.

End your day with a relaxing walk along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.

Exploring the Promenade and the Art of Matisse

Cours Saleya Market

Modern and Contemporary Art Museum

Nice Observatory

Start your day with a visit to the Cours Saleya Market, where you can buy fresh local produce, flowers, and other goods. It's a great place to experience the local culture.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in the Old Town. Try some local specialties like pissaladière or pan bagnat.

Visit the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum, which houses a large collection of works by modern and contemporary artists. The museum is located in the heart of Nice.

Have dinner at a restaurant in the Port area. Enjoy the fresh seafood and the beautiful views of the yachts and boats in the harbor.

End your day with a visit to the Nice Observatory. Enjoy the stunning views of the night sky and learn about the universe.

Market Visit and Modern Art Exploration

Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Parc Phoenix

Musée Marc Chagall

Liberation

Promenade du Paillon

Start your day with a visit to the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, the largest Russian Orthodox Cathedral outside Russia. The cathedral is a stunning example of Russian architecture.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Parc Phoenix, a large botanical garden and zoo. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Visit the Musée Marc Chagall, which houses a large collection of works by the Russian-French artist Marc Chagall. The museum is located in a modern building in the Cimiez neighborhood.

Have dinner at a restaurant in the Liberation neighborhood. Enjoy the local cuisine and the vibrant atmosphere of this trendy area.

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Promenade du Paillon, a beautiful park in the heart of Nice. Enjoy the illuminated water mirror and the sound of the fountains.

Russian Architecture and Chagall's Art

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

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.

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.

Socca

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.

Salade Niçoise

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.

Ratatouille

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.

Pissaladière

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.

Pan Bagnat

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.

Bouillabaisse

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.

Tourte de Blettes

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

Daube

A traditional dish from Nice where vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers are stuffed with a mixture of bread crumbs, cheese, and meat.

Farci Niçois

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.

Rosé de Provence

A popular anise-flavored aperitif in Nice and throughout the Provence region. It's typically diluted with water before drinking.

Pastis

New Year's Day

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

WWII Victory Day

Ascension Day

Whit Monday

Bastille Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Armistice Day

Christmas Day

A tiny independent city-state on France’s Mediterranean coastline known for its upscale casinos, yacht-lined harbor and prestigious Grand Prix motor race.

Monaco

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.

Antibes

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

Cannes

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

Saint-Tropez

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

Genoa

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

Marseille

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.

Turin

Known for its stately buildings and centuries-old wine estates. It's a city near the south coast of France, on the Mediterranean Sea.

Montpellier

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

Milan

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

Barcelona

Colmar

French Riviera

Lille

Lyon

Nimes

Paris

Strasbourg

Waterfall in Parc de la Colline du Chateau

Villefranche sur Mer. Seaside town on the French Riviera

Place Massena square with red buildings and fountain

French Riviera coast with medieval town Villefranche sur Mer

Nice is located in the French Riviera, on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea.

The official language is French, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

The currency used in Nice is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

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.

Tipping is not mandatory in Nice as service charge is included in your bill, but it's customary to leave small change.

Public transportation in Nice is efficient and affordable. The city has a comprehensive bus and tram network.

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.

The city is known for its cuisine, particularly dishes like Ratatouille and Salade Niçoise. Don't miss out on trying local food.

Nice is a pedestrian-friendly city with many areas only accessible by foot. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The city's main airport is Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport, located about 6 km west of the city center.

Nice operates on Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time.

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.

The city has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Nice has a large number of museums and art galleries, reflecting its rich history and culture.

The city is also known for its markets, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts.

Nice has a number of beautiful beaches, but many are pebbly rather than sandy. Beach shoes might be useful.

The city is a great base for exploring the wider French Riviera, including Monaco and Cannes.

Nice has a relaxed dress code, but it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Tap water is safe to drink in Nice, but bottled water is widely available.

Pharmacies in Nice are marked by a green cross and can provide advice and over-the-counter medication for minor ailments.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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!

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3-Day Solo Exploration of Hidden Gems in Nice, France

About Nice, France