Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Nice
Nice is a stunning Mediterranean city known for its sunny climate, vibrant coastal atmosphere, and mix of French and Italian influences. Ideal for holidaymakers and backpackers, it offers a relaxed vibe with beautiful seaside promenades, charming old-town streets, and plenty of budget-friendly accommodations. With easy access to beaches, scenic views, and a bustling food scene, Nice is perfect for both leisure and exploration along the French Riviera.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
8 – 30°C
46 – 86°F
Nice’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Castle Hill (Colline du Château) | Hike up to Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice, the Mediterranean, and the port, along with beautiful gardens and the ruins of an old fortress. |
| Cours Saleya Market | Explore Cours Saleya Market, a vibrant flower and food market in Old Town, where you can sample local produce, flowers, and specialties like Socca and Niçoise salad. |
| Marc Chagall National Museum | Visit the Marc Chagall National Museum, showcasing an extensive collection of works by the famous artist, including vibrant paintings, mosaics, and stained glass. |
| Matisse Museum (Musée Matisse) | Discover the works of Henri Matisse at the Musée Matisse, located in a historic villa surrounded by olive trees, featuring paintings, drawings, and sculptures. |
| Monastère de Cimiez | Visit the Monastère de Cimiez, a peaceful monastery with beautiful gardens and panoramic views, as well as an ancient cemetery where Matisse is buried. |
| Musée Masséna | Visit the Musée Masséna, a museum housed in a 19th-century villa that offers a glimpse into Nice’s history through art, furniture, and artifacts. |
| Nice Carnival (February) | Experience the vibrant Nice Carnival, one of the world’s largest, featuring parades, flower battles, and lively events celebrating the city’s rich cultural heritage. |
| Old Town (Vieux Nice) | Wander through Vieux Nice, the historic heart of the city, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, bustling markets, and charming cafes. |
| Place Masséna | Relax at Place Masséna, Nice’s main square, with its distinctive checkerboard pavement, fountains, and proximity to shopping, dining, and the Promenade des Anglais. |
| Promenade des Anglais | Stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, enjoying views of the Mediterranean Sea, palm trees, and the lively atmosphere of Nice’s most famous waterfront avenue. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Nice offers convenient transport options, including trams, buses, and trains, all well-connected for easy city travel. The city is also bike-friendly, with public bike rentals available. For ride-hailing, Uber and Bolt are commonly used. The Lignes d’Azur app is useful for public transport routes and schedules.
Seasonality and Weather
Nice enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Spring (March to May) sees temperatures between 12-20°C (54-68°F), with pleasant sunny days. Summer (June to August) is hot, with temperatures around 23-30°C (73-86°F), and occasional heatwaves. Autumn (September to November) is mild, with temperatures ranging from 16-22°C (61-72°F). Winter (December to February) is cooler but still mild, around 8-15°C (46-59°F), with rare cold snaps. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is warm and crowds are fewer.
Where to stay
Vieux Nice (Old Town): Charming, historic area with narrow streets, vibrant markets, and local eateries.
Promenade des Anglais: Ideal for beach lovers, with luxury hotels and scenic views along the coast.
Carre d’Or: Upscale shopping and dining area, perfect for those seeking a more refined experience.
Liberation: A more local and budget-friendly area with a lively market and authentic atmosphere.
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