The Best Sights to See in Nice
Nice is known for its beautiful beaches and quaint cafes, but it also has plenty to offer in the way of sightseeing. Here are the best sights to see in this charming French city.
One of the best things to do in Nice is a visit to the Matisse Museum, which houses one of the world's largest collections of Henri Matisse's works. It's easy to get lost in this treasure trove of paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures.
Tourists usually book a hotel in France in advance online, compare prices, ratings and reviews. For example, in Nice you can book Hôtel La Pérouse Nice from 137 euros per night.
1. Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is one of the best sights to see in Nice. This long, paved walk stretches from the airport to Port de Nice, spanning over 7 kilometers. It is a popular place for people to stroll and enjoy the scenic views of the Bay of Angels.
It is also a popular place for tourists to spend time on vacation. Many locals and visitors alike enjoy a leisurely walk along the Promenade as it offers a wide range of activities and attractions.
There are plenty of places to stop and take a break from the busy Promenade des Anglais, including several cafes and restaurants that serve local and international cuisine. If you want to be more active, there are several fitness centers along the Promenade that offer exercise equipment and massages.
You can also rent a scooter or bike on the Promenade and take a tour of the city from atop the cliffs. Alternatively, you can join a 1-hour sightseeing tour by Segway that will introduce you to the beautiful city of Nice in a fun and exciting way.
This is a great way to get a feel for the area and discover some of its most iconic landmarks. After training on the Segway, you will ride on the famous Promenade before heading off to explore the old town and its winding streets.
The Promenade des Anglais has long been a favorite tourist destination, and it's still a top choice for a romantic stroll or a family outing. The beachfront property is also home to a casino, allowing you to play a few games of roulette or slots while you're on vacation!
Originally, the Promenade des Anglais was constructed in the early 19th century. It was a seaside walkway that was financed and built by English aristocrats who came to the French Riviera to enjoy the mild winter weather.
Today, the Promenade remains one of the most important tourist spots in Nice, with thousands of residents and tourists enjoying a relaxing stroll or shopping trip along it. This popular promenade has been the subject of a terrorist attack in 2016, when an assassin drove a truck into a crowd of people, killing 86 and injuring 202.
2. Old Town
With its narrow cobbled streets, baroque churches, and lively markets, the Old Town is one of the best sights in Nice. During the summer, this vibrant quarter is crammed with tourists, but there are plenty of ways to experience it without the crowds.
It’s easy to spend a day wandering the Old Town, soaking up its history and grabbing some souvenirs along the way. But, if you’re looking for an immersive experience, you might want to skip the shopping and head straight to one of the area’s many museums.
The Charles Negre Photography Museum (Musée de photographie Charles Negre) in Place Pierre Gautier is a great place to see a range of contemporary art. It’s also worth paying a visit to the Musee du Palais Lascaris, which is home to over 500 music instruments.
As you walk through the narrow, shaded streets of Old Nice, you’ll get a sense of the city’s rich past and colorful history. Most of the buildings are painted in all the colors of the French Riviera – yellows, oranges, and pinks dominate the palette, while shutters are azure blue or turquoise to add some flair.
A good way to spend a sunny afternoon is strolling the Old Town’s cobbled streets, checking out the local shops and savoring some authentic cuisine. The city has a rich culinary tradition, and some of its most renowned restaurants are in this area.
When you’re in the mood to buy some souvenirs, there are several places to pick up unique gifts from France and beyond. Shops here sell everything from chic fashion and accessories to perfumes, artisanal olive oils, and California wines.
The street of the 100 Antiquaries is a treasure trove, where you’ll find all sorts of old-fashioned items, from antique books to pre-loved homewares. It’s a fun experience to spend an afternoon hunting for hidden gems and you may come across something you never would have expected!
If you’re in the mood for some fresh produce, the Cours Saleya is an open-air market that’s popular with locals. This is a good place to buy fruit, vegetables, and bread.
3. Le Voiler Beach Club
If you want a taste of the French Riviera while still on your holiday in Nice, a trip to the Le Voiler Beach Club is worth it. It’s a great place to enjoy a delicious meal and enjoy stunning views of the ocean.
This gorgeous beach restaurant is one of the most stylish in all of Nice and there’s something here for everyone. From a gourmet seafood restaurant to a luxe lounge bar, you can be sure that the staff here will make your stay as memorable as possible.
A little further out from the centre of town, this is a private beach that has a lot of charm and facilities to offer. It also has a great pool and 80 private cabins that are perfect for families.
The best part is that it’s free to use and there are lifeguards on duty in summer. You can even bring a picnic and have a relaxing day at the beach with no hassle.
You’ll be able to see the sea from your table and it’s also a good spot for a sunbath in the shade. It’s also a great place to hang out with the kids and watch them play in the water.
It’s a bit of a drive from the city, but well worth it for a tranquil spot away from the throbbing crowds. It has plenty of space and calm waters, a saltwater pool, a secluded bar, and 80 private cabins that make it the perfect place to unwind.
There’s also a restaurant here that serves Nicois dishes and an excellent selection of local wines. It’s not cheap, but it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a luxury beach experience in Nice.
For those who are on a budget, there are many public beaches in the area that are free to visit as well. The main one is located along the Promenade des Anglais and there are a few others that you can choose from.
During the summer months, the beaches of Nice become a popular destination for people to spend their days on the water. The city is full of amazing things to do and see so there is always something to do during your holiday in Nice, France.
4. Monastere de Cimiez
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Nice, the Monastere de Cimiez is the place to go. This monastery north of the centre was established by Benedictines in the 800s, and is a must-visit for its delicate frescoes and historical significance.
It also contains the Musée Franciscain, which features 350 documents and works of art that document the role of local Franciscans. You’ll be able to admire the church and museum from the inside, but there are also some lovely gardens to explore if you take a stroll outside.
In fact, it’s a perfect spot for a picnic or an afternoon tea in the park. It’s nestled in the Cimiez neighborhood above the ancient ruins of Cemenelum and offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
This historic site was originally a Benedictine monastery, and it was converted to a Franciscan church in the 16th century. In 1850, the current building was restored to its neo-gothic style.
The monastery is home to a number of significant paintings by the primitive Nicois painter Louis Brea, including three frescoes from around 1500. The church is also attached to the beautiful Cimetiere de Cimiez cemetery, where some notable residents are buried, including French artists Henri Matisse and Raoul Dufy.
You can visit the neo-Gothic cloister in the monastery and explore its Italian-style gardens, which are a photographers dream. You’ll see an ancient well, old pergolas, and climbing roses.
Another great attraction is the reconstructed monk’s cell, where you can glimpse a monk’s life. If you’re a history buff, you can visit the adjacent Cimetiere de Cimiez cemetery to learn more about the people who lived and died here.
Its white marble Cross is a sight to behold, representing the crucified seraphim and the Virgin. It can be found on Place du Monastere de Cimiez.
Located just 2km from Vieux Nice, this serene, calm neighborhood is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. It is dotted with interesting attractions, including the Cimiez Arenas and Gardens, the Archaeological Museum and the Matisse Museum. It is also known for its historical monuments such as Valrose Castle and Regina Palace.