Nice Oteller

Nice, the fairytale city on the Mediterranean coast in the southeast of France, offers a visual feast to its visitors. This fascinating city, which blends history and modernity, promises a wonderful holiday for both history and culture enthusiasts and nature lovers.

 If you are a history and culture enthusiast, this city is a hidden gem to explore with its museums and art galleries. Moreover, it is the city of many dreams not only for culture and history enthusiasts but also for nature enthusiasts. Walking along the famous Promenade des Anglais offers a great opportunity to take a dip in the cool waters of the deep blue sea or simply enjoy the beach. 

Nice is also known as the city of flavors. The delicious flavors of traditional French cuisine, fresh Mediterranean seafood, and local wines will pamper your taste buds. Offering a unique experience for history, culture, nature, and gastronomy lovers, this city fascinates every visitor.

Things To Know Before Going To Nice

• Plan ahead for the Nice Jazz Festival in July and Carnaval de Nice in February, as they require advance booking.
• The show season runs from September to June. Tickets for operas, classical concerts, and ballets at this historic venue sell out quickly.
• Purchase the Pass Musées 3 Jours for €15 to access all municipal museums and galleries for three days. Available online or at the tourist office.
• Avoid beachwear and bare chests away from the shore. Dress as you would in any city, and bring smart outfits for upscale restaurants, clubs, and bars.
• Perfect for day trips to Monaco, Èze, and more. Costs from €28 for one day to €56 for three days. Includes Segway tours, bike rentals, champagne at the casino, paddleboarding, wine tasting, and access to many museums and monuments.

Nice Tips From Locals

• Southern regions may feel less hospitable, and locals might seem friendly mainly for business. It's part of the area's unique character.
• In Nice, "the Castle" refers to a hill without an actual castle. Just enjoy the view and the local terminology.
• Olives are a highlight here. Enjoy everything made with olives, from olive oil to tapenade and olive bread.
• Opt for chilled rosé over red wine in summer. The best rosé is more orange than pink. Pastis is another local favorite, though its taste can be an acquired one.
• Don’t miss trying Nice’s famous La Salade Niçoise. It’s a must-try for a reason!

Where To Stay In Nice?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Nice are great for tourists:

Best Hotels in Nice  

Have a nicer trip with hotels in Nice France here!

Places To Visit In Nice

Here’s the list of some top Nice attractions you shouldn’t miss during your visit:

• Promenade des Anglais: Stroll along this iconic waterfront promenade, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Vieille Ville (Old Town): Lose yourself in the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town, filled with colorful buildings, charming cafes, and bustling markets like Cours Saleya.
• Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Climb up or take the elevator to this scenic hilltop park, offering panoramic views of Nice and the coastline.
• Massena Square (Place Massena): Marvel at the grand architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this central square, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and fountains.
• Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate): Visit this beautiful cathedral, known for its Baroque architecture and impressive interior.
• Marc Chagall National Museum: Explore the works of the renowned artist Marc Chagall in this museum dedicated to his life and art.
• Russian Orthodox Cathedral (Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe): Admire the stunning Russian Orthodox architecture of this cathedral, adorned with colorful domes and intricate details.
• Matisse Museum: Delve into the world of Henri Matisse at this museum showcasing a diverse collection of his paintings, sculptures, and personal belongings.
• Cimiez Monastery and Archaeological Site: Discover ancient Roman ruins and the tranquil gardens surrounding the historic Cimiez Monastery.
• Castle of Nice (Château de Nice): Explore the ruins of this medieval castle perched atop Castle Hill, offering more breathtaking views of the city and coastline.

Where is Nice?

Nice, France, is located on the French Riviera, which is the southeastern coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea, at the foot of the French Alps. Nice is the second-largest French city on the Mediterranean coast and the second-largest city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

Is Nice Safe?

Nice is generally considered to be a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas, keep belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Nice, guarding against the possibility of pickpocketing and robbery.

Is Nice Expensive To Visit?

Compared to other parts of Europe, Nice is known to be more budget-friendly, with various affordable options for accommodation, food, and attractions. While Nice offers a range of experiences for different budgets, it is possible to visit and explore the city without breaking the bank.

Nice Currency

In Nice, France, as in much of Europe, the Euro (€) serves as the official currency. This simplifies transactions for travelers coming from other Eurozone countries, which include 17 European Union states.

Nice Language

The official language in Nice is French, as it is in the rest of France. However, Niçard dialect, rooted in the city's Italian origins, is still spoken by a minority and remains present in the local culture and on street signs in the old center of Nice.

How Many Days To Visit Nice?

Three days in Nice is perfect for experiencing the capital of Côte d'Azur and the French Riviera as it enables you to explore the city's top attractions and visit a nearby town. If you have more time, you can spend a week in Nice and use it as a base to explore other parts of the French Riviera.

What To Do in Nice?

• Wander through the narrow streets and historic architecture of the old town Ecusson quartier.
• Stroll along the famous 3-mile Promenade des Anglais seafront.
• Sample classic Niçois dishes like salade niçoise, pan bagnat, socca, pissaladière, and petits farcis niçois.
• Explore the vibrant Cours Saleya market known for its flower, fruit, and vegetable stalls
• Take a food tour to learn about and taste the local specialties.
• Admire modern and contemporary art at the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain.
• Explore the collections at the Musée Matisse and Chagall Museum.
• Jog, walk, or cycle along the Promenade des Anglais and Quai des États-Unis.
• Go snorkeling at sunset off the Cap Ferrat peninsula.
• Explore other charming towns and villages along the French Riviera like Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, and Monaco.
• Visit the vineyards of the Bellet AOC and sample the local wines.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Nice?

The best time to visit Nice is during the shoulder seasons of September to October or from mid-March to April when you can take advantage of sunny weather, fewer crowds, and lower room rates.

• Winter (December - February): Experience the holiday season with traditional Christmas markets and cozy wine taverns. Despite the colder weather, the festive atmosphere is enchanting. January and February provide a quieter visit after the holiday rush.
• Spring (March - May): Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers such as magnolias, cherry blossoms, and wisterias. It's a great time for day trips to nearby villages, although it can be windy in the city during this season.
• Summer (June - August): Expect larger crowds, hot weather, and high humidity, but also enjoy a variety of festivals such as the Fête de la Musique and the European Festival of Fantastic Film. Summer is perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
• Fall (September - November): Ideal for wine enthusiasts, Nice in the fall offers vineyard tours, the harvest season, and events like the Jazz Festival. The changing colors of autumn and mild temperatures create a pleasant environment for sightseeing.

What To Pack For Your Visit To Nice?

Here’s the packing list for Nice depending on which season you plan to visit the city:

• Spring (March to May): Bring your t-shirts, tank tops and shorts, light jacket or sweater for mornings or evenings, umbrella, raincoat, rain boots.
• Summer (June to August): Lightweight clothing like tank tops and shorts, comfortable, lightweight shoes, and sunscreen.
• Fall (September to November): Jeans or pants, light sweaters, jacket for layering, and comfortable shoes.
• Winter (December to February): Jeans or pants, light sweaters, long-sleeve tops, vest or jacket, comfortable shoes or boots, and a scarf.

Nice Food

Nice offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of traditional dishes and foods to try. Some of the must-try foods in Nice include:

• Socca: A savory chickpea flour pancake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
• Salade Niçoise: A refreshing salad featuring local ingredients such as tomatoes, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and anchovies, all drizzled with olive oil.
• Ratatouille: A classic Provencal dish made with stewed vegetables like tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, seasoned with herbs like thyme and basil.
• Pissaladière: A savory tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
• Pan Bagnat: A traditional sandwich filled with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, olives, tomatoes, and sometimes anchovies, all soaked in olive oil and served on a crusty roll.
• Bouillabaisse: A flavorful fish stew made with a variety of local fish and shellfish, cooked in a saffron-infused broth and served with rouille (a garlic and saffron mayonnaise) and crusty bread.
• Fougasse: A type of flatbread similar to focaccia, often flavored with olives, herbs, or cheese, and enjoyed as a snack or accompaniment to meals.
• Tarte au Citron: A tangy lemon tart made with a buttery pastry crust and filled with a creamy lemon custard, perfect for dessert or a sweet treat.
• Petit Farcis: Stuffed vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, or eggplant, filled with a mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then baked until tender.
• Lavender Honey: A fragrant honey produced from lavender flowers found in the Provence region, perfect for drizzling over cheese, yogurt, or desserts.

Nice Nightlife

Nice offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene catering to various preferences and tastes. From grungy backpacker pubs in the Old Town to chic piano bars and lively dance clubs, the city's nightlife is dynamic and exciting. Here are some highlights of the nightlife in Nice:

• Wayne's Bar: A classic establishment that combines French and British pub vibes, renowned for its live music and vibrant atmosphere.
• Waka Bar: A favorite among locals and tourists for its refreshing cocktails, friendly staff, and seaside view.
• High Club: A high-energy discotheque located on the Promenade des Anglais. It features renowned DJs and offers a diverse mix of beats for an exciting night out.
• Le Ghost: An intimate club located in the Old Town. It offers good cocktails and a varied playlist, creating a cozy and lively ambiance.
• El Merkado: A tapas bar with a warm ambiance, serving delicious Sangria and highly recommended burgers.
• La Havane: A lively Cuban bar that offers affordable cocktails, Latino beats, and salsa classes.
• Les Distilleries Idéales: A distillery-themed bar with vintage charm, offering a great selection of whisky and outdoor seating.