3 Days of Sun, Culture and Cuisine in Nice, France
Discover the charm of the French Riviera in Nice.
22 April 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
As a tourist in Nice, France, one can bask in the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, strolling down the Promenade des Anglais, and sipping on a refreshing aperitif at a local beach-front cafe. The city is dotted with charming old-world architecture, with the picturesque hill-top village of Saint-Paul de Vence, the medieval castle of Le Château and the stunning Romanesque cathedral of Sainte-Réparate providing some of the most impressive sights. A trip to Nice is an invigorating experience, packed full of captivating culture, inviting natural beauty, and fabulous food and drink.
Travel plan
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- Check into elegant Hôtel Beau Rivage and admire sea views from room balcony
- Soak up sun and sea at Plage Beau Rivage, with crystal waters and pristine sands
- Take a stroll down the Promenade des Anglais, admiring Belle Époque architecture and sun-kissed bustling streets
- Visit the iconic Negresco Hotel, an Art Deco masterpiece with eclectic interiors and Michelin-starred dining
- Savor fragrant Bouillabaisse and other local delicacies at the buzzing Le Safari restaurant on Rue Massena
- Marvel at the stunning Russian Orthodox Cathedral built in dazzling white marble, a fascinating blend of Byzantine, Russian, and Byzantine architecture
- Explore the Matisse Museum, housed in a serene XVIIth century villa and showcasing the vibrant works of the great French artist
- Climb up Castle Hill for sweeping panoramic views of the city and the glittering Mediterranean sea
- Discover Nice's rich history at the opulent Palais Lascaris, a Baroque palace converted into a fascinating museum of musical instruments
- Sip an Aperol Spritz and watch the sunset over the sea at trendy La Terrasse rooftop bar
- Indulge your senses at the vibrant Cours Saleya Market, bustling with colors, scents, and sounds of fresh produce
- Sample exquisite Niçoise cuisine at Acchiardo, a charming family-run restaurant with traditional recipes and warm service
- Browse the fine art galleries and boutiques on the quaint Rue François-Zanin, and pick up unique souvenirs and gifts
- Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day at the serene Mövenpick Hotel, with indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, hammam, and massage treatments
- End your day with a romantic stroll along the Port Lympia, admiring the yachts and soaking up the Mediterranean ambiance
- Note: This itinerary is subject to change and may be impact by COVID-19 restrictions. Please check all travel regulations and recommendations before booking or embarking on any trips.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Nice, France by plane is to fly into Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, which is located about 6 kilometers southwest of the city center of Nice. Many airlines offer flights to the airport, including Air France, Ryanair, and EasyJet. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, taxi, or train to get to your final destination.
Car
If you have access to a car, driving to Nice can be a scenic and enjoyable experience. The A8 motorway connects Nice with major French cities like Marseille and Paris. However, traffic can be heavy during peak travel times, so it's best to plan accordingly and avoid rush hour traffic.
Train
If you are traveling from within France, you can take a train to Nice Ville train station, which is located in the heart of the city. The train station is served by TGV high-speed trains and regional TER trains, with connections to major cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon. The journey time varies depending on your starting location.
Boat
While there are no direct ferry services to Nice, you can take a cruise to the nearby port cities of Marseille or Cannes and then transfer to Nice by train or car. Some popular cruise lines that stop in these cities include MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean. Alternatively, you can take a yacht or sailboat and dock at Nice's Port Lympia or Port de Nice marinas.
Bus
If you are on a budget, the best option to get to Nice by bus is to take a coach from major cities like Paris or Marseille. Eurolines and Flixbus are two popular bus companies that offer routes to Nice from various locations throughout Europe. The journey time can be long, but it's an affordable option for those looking to save money on transportation.