Best 20 things to do in Nice, France

Welcome to Nice, where the sun shines brighter than your future and the streets are paved with confetti and dreams. Our guide to the top 20 things will magically transform you into a sophisticated French connoisseur. Climb up Castle Hill for breathtaking views, reveling in the choice not to follow your gym routine. Explore the vibrant Cours Saleya market, where the aroma of fresh flowers and the urge to impulse-buy handmade soap compete for your attention. Just remember, resist the temptation to pose dramatically on every corner, unless you're auditioning for the role of the wistful romantic lead in your very own Nice-inspired movie.

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1. Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate)

4.6 (4324)

3 Pl. Rossetti, 06300 Nice, France

Welcome to the Nice Cathedral, or as the locals call it, Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate – a real architectural knockout! This beauty stands tall with its solemn yet slightly cheeky demeanor, giving you a peek into the divine artistic skills of the folks back in the 17th century. Prepare to have your jaw drop as you step inside and find yourself in a symphony of colored marble, high ceilings that compete with the Eiffel Tower, and enough stained glass to make Elton John shed a tear of envy. So, if you're feeling adventurous and have a sudden urge to have a conversation with a higher power, make sure to visit this heavenly piece of art – who knows, maybe you'll even get to ask for some divine architectural tips!

www.cathedrale-nice.fr

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2. Promenade des Anglais

Prom. des Anglais, Nice, France

As you meander along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, prepare to be captivated by the enchanting combination of palm trees, azure waters, and an endless parade of stylish sunbathers flaunting their fabulousness. This iconic promenade, affectionately known as the "boulevard of the English," offers an impeccable stage for leisurely strolls and unparalleled people-watching, as locals and tourists alike strut their stuff in a delightful fashion show of beach chic. You may even catch a glimpse of a daring rollerblader zooming past, simultaneously displaying impressive athleticism and a questionable fashion sense.

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3. Liberation Tramway

Welcome to the Liberation Tramway in Nice, where getting around with a touch of flair is as refreshing as a crisp glass of rosé on a summer day. Hop on board this magical transport contraption that effortlessly glides through the streets, magically transforming the mundane act of commuting into a whimsical adventure. Soak in the local vibes, catch hilarious snippets of conversations in broken French, and don't forget to give your vocal cords some exercise by attempting to pronounce the names of the stops - bonne chance, mes amis!

4. Jardin Exotique (Exotic Garden)

4.7 (5907)

20 Rue du Château, 06360 Èze, France

Welcome to the Jardin Exotique, where palm trees swish their fronds like sassy divas and cacti strut their prickly stuff like they own the place. This little slice of paradise perched on the hilltops of Nice offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with plants that seem to have escaped from a tropical disco. Prepare to enter a botanical wonderland where even the most urban of souls can't help but shimmy with delight.

www.jardinexotique-eze.fr

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5. Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain

4.1 (3882)

Place Yves Klein, 06000 Nice, France

Welcome to Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain in Nice, where modern and contemporary art collide like a clumsy accordion player trying to blend in at a silent disco. This avant-garde haven offers a dizzying array of mind-bending artworks that might make you question everything you learned in kindergarten. Soak in the abstract splatters, unconventional sculptures, and twisted installations, all while pretending to understand what the heck the artist was thinking when they used a rubber duck as a symbol of existential angst.

www.mamac-nice.org

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6. Museum of Natural History

3.6 (240)

60 Bd Risso, 06300 Nice, France

Welcome to the Museum of Natural History in Nice, where prehistoric fossils get the "rock" star treatment they've always deserved! Delve into a vibrant world of long-extinct creatures that can't wait to showcase their bone-afide charm. This museum offers a delightful blend of interactive exhibits, so whether you're a dino-enthusiast or simply on a mission to make your friends pterodactyl with envy, prepare for a roaring good time!

www.mhnnice.org

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7. Russian Orthodox Cathedral

4.6 (6776)

Av. Nicolas II, 06000 Nice, France

Welcome to the Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Nice, where the French Riviera and Russian traditions collide in a delightful architectural extravaganza! This cathedral is more than just a picturesque place of worship; it's a flamboyant blend of vibrant colors and elaborate onion-shaped domes that will make your Instagram followers go wild with envy. Don't miss the chance to step inside and be greeted by a gathering of charismatic icons, who might just be plotting their next worldly adventure as you observe in awe!

www.sobor.fr

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8. Phoenix Park (Parc Phoenix)

4.2 (9548)

405 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice, France

Welcome to Phoenix Park, where nature meets a touch of madness in the heart of Nice! This quirky gem boasts an enchanting blend of diverse landscapes, unique botanical wonders, and a zoo filled with animals that could easily double as characters from a whimsical fairy tale. Take a leisurely stroll amidst lush gardens that seem to be organized by a spectacularly imaginative toddler, discovering surprises around every corner - just be prepared to meet a peacock-loving kangaroo or a parrot with a penchant for cheesy jokes.

www.parc-phoenix.org

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9. Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

4.7 (18771)

06300 Nice, France

Welcome to Castle Hill, or as the locals like to call it - the "let's-make-every-other-tourist-jealous" spot! This picturesque hill in Nice not only offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, but also serves as a fantastic excuse for a workout. So, get ready to burn those croissant calories as you conquer the countless steps to the top, and maybe, just maybe, finally achieve your dream of becoming a professional stair climber! Once you've caught your breath and wiped away the sweat, you'll be rewarded with a view that will make even the fiercest Instagram accounts tremble with envy. Gaze upon the azure waters of the Mediterranean, the charming rooftops of Nice, and a whole slew of confused seagulls trying to figure out who disturbed their afternoon siesta. As you explore Castle Hill, keep an eye out for its hidden surprises. From secret gardens that seem straight out of a fairytale, to ancient ruins that add a touch of mystical history, it's no wonder the hill has a "blink and you'll miss it" reputation. So, channel your inner adventurer, soak in the beauty, and remember to capture the perfect selfie that will make your social media followers question their life choices.

www.nice.fr

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10. Cours Saleya

Cr Saleya, 06300 Nice, France

Welcome to Cours Saleya in the sun-kissed city of Nice, where you can witness the harmonious duality of a blossoming flower market by day and a bewildering maze of seductive aromas by night. This vibrant square is a playground for all your senses - watch with awe as locals negotiate through a sea of vibrant blooms, while dodging the sudden emergence of determined pigeons on a mission for a free snack. With its captivating colors and lively atmosphere, Cours Saleya is a visual feast that will make you want to embrace every vibrant petal, and perhaps even renew your vows with your nose, for it has truly found love at first sniff.

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11. Opéra de Nice

4.5 (2034)

4-6 Rue Saint-François de Paule, 06300 Nice, France

Welcome to Opéra de Nice, where culture and charm come together to take your breath away, and maybe even your composure if you're passionate about singing in the shower. This architectural masterpiece, overlooking a floral fountain, is a delightful venue where you can enjoy operatic performances without having to worry about busting out your own rendition of "Nessun Dorma" and scaring off unsuspecting pigeons. So put on your fanciest attire, embrace that cultured demeanor, and prepare for an evening of extraordinary talent that will leave you utterly mesmerized... or at least leave you humming dramatic melodies under your breath.

www.opera-nice.org

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12. Matisse Museum

3.9 (4054)

164 Av. des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice, France

Welcome to the Matisse Museum in Nice, a place where vibrant colors dance gracefully on canvases and overzealous tourists become pros at staring at abstract art. Prepare to embark on a journey where Matisse's masterpieces will make your brain twist like a modern art puzzle, leaving you wondering if you've accidentally entered the dimension of an eccentric cat enthusiast. Don't fret, as you wander through this delightful homage to Matisse's creativity, remember to keep your cool and resist the urge to burst out singing with joy at the sight of his iconic paper cut-outs.

www.musee-matisse-nice.org

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13. Albert 1er Gardens

4.5 (10271)

2-16 Av. de Verdun, 06000 Nice, France

Welcome to Albert 1er Gardens in Nice, a green oasis where nature competes with tourists for the limited spots of grass. Here, you can witness some truly impressive performances: acrobatic seagulls trying to steal the overpriced snacks from unsuspecting visitors, and brave locals attempting to sunbathe on towel-sized patches of land. Don't forget to try the sport of "blanket origami" – the art of fitting your picnic setup into the tiniest space available; bonus points for strategically blocking the never-ending parade of selfie sticks.

www.nice.fr

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14. Old Town (Vieux Nice)

old nice, Nice, France

Welcome to Old Town in Nice, where time seems to have taken a leisurely stroll and gotten accidentally stuck in the labyrinthine streets. Prepare to be amazed by a charming mishmash of colorful buildings, narrow alleyways, and boutiques that stubbornly refuse to obey the laws of physics while squeezing in adorable little cafés. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, as you navigate through a maze that feels like a game of "Where's Waldo?" but with scents of freshly baked croissants and arguments over boules instead.

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15. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

4.7 (6558)

1 Av. Ephrussi de Rothschild, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France

Nestled along the dazzling French Riviera, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Nice is a jaw-dropper of epic opulence. Prepare to be awestruck by the lavishness that oozes from every nook and cranny of this palatial masterpiece, designed for those who have 'extra' in their lives and pockets. The villa's breathtaking gardens feel like a whimsical wonderland, where peacocks roam freely and even flowers seem to showcase a friendly rivalry of who can bloom the brightest.

www.villa-ephrussi.com

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16. Marc Chagall National Museum

4.4 (4966)

Av. Dr Ménard, 06000 Nice, France

Nestled in the charming city of Nice, the Marc Chagall National Museum is a delightful treasure trove of artistic wonder. Stepping into this museum is like being transported into a whimsical dreamscape, where Chagall's vibrant colors and imaginative visions come alive. As you wander through the halls, you can't help but marvel at Chagall's ability to make cows and violins frolic together like old pals, and wonder if maybe you've stumbled into the world's most eccentric petting zoo.

musees-nationaux-alpesmaritimes.fr

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17. Nice Archaeology Museum

4.1 (517)

160 Av. des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice, France

Welcome to the Nice Archaeology Museum, where you can dive into the depths of history without the hassle of time travel, because let's be honest, who has a DeLorean lying around? Wander through the museum's corridors as you uncover ancient treasures, mysterious mummies, and relics that make you wonder if Indiana Jones might pop out from behind a corner. With each step, you'll feel like an adventurous explorer, just with better lighting and less chance of a giant boulder chasing you.

www.musee-archeologie-nice.org

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18. Musée Masséna

4.5 (2244)

65 Rue de France, 06000 Nice, France

Welcome to Musée Masséna, where history gets a glittery makeover! This delightful palace-turned-museum in Nice is like a flamboyant time portal that transports you to the world of elegant French aristocracy. As you wander through the grand rooms, pretending to be a refined socialite, keep an eye out for the fabulous array of Napoleonic memorabilia, shimmering chandeliers that must have cost a fortune in dusting, and paintings that make you question why you didn't take art lessons.

www.massena-nice.org

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19. Palais Lascaris

4.3 (1303)

15 Rue Droite, 06300 Nice, France

Welcome to Palais Lascaris in Nice, where opulence meets quirkiness in a harmonious dance of fancy decorations and eccentricity. This former aristocratic mansion will transport you to a time when powdered wigs were all the rage and staircases had more twists and turns than a telenovela plot. Brace yourself for a visual feast as you explore the palace, where every room is like a treasure chest filled with antique furnishings that will make you feel instantly underdressed.

www.nice.fr

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20. Les Ponchettes

Rue des Ponchettes, 06300 Nice, France

Welcome to Les Ponchettes in Nice, where time seems to have taken a laid-back nap! This picturesque pebble beach offers you a chance to ditch the sand permanently lodged in your swimsuits in favor of surprising your toes with a new sensation - pebble hopping. Marvel at the artistic display of what looks like a mosaic masterpiece, created by countless frustrated vacationers trying to build sandcastles on pebbly terrain.

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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.

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Discover the Magic of Nice: A Family-friendly Day Trip

A trip to Nice, France promises a perfect family-friendly getaway. Explore the picturesque Promenade des Anglais and its beautiful beaches, ideal for building sandcastles and soaking up the sun. Discover the charm of Vieux Nice, with its colorful narrow streets and bustling markets, offering a plethora of delicious food options for children and adults alike.

4 Fun-Filled Days in Nice, France on a Budget

A trip to Nice, France on a limited budget is still a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Attractions like the Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill are free to visit, and the city has a great public transportation system to help keep costs down. For budget-friendly meals, head to the local markets and bakeries for fresh produce and baked goods.

Nice on a Budget: Beaches, Food, and Culture

A trip to Nice, France on a limited budget can still be a wonderful experience. Strolling along the Promenade des Anglais is free and provides stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visiting the Old Town and local food markets allows for a taste of French culture without breaking the bank.

Couples' Long Weekend: Discover Nice, France

Enjoy a romantic getaway in the charming city of Nice, France. Take a stroll along the stunning Promenade des Anglais, indulge in some delicious French cuisine, and explore the historic Old Town. End your perfect day with a glass of champagne while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.