20 Best Things To Do in Nice France
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20 Best Things To Do in Nice France

Nice is considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, located on the French Riviera in southern France. It is good to visit the city irrespective of the time of the year because you can have beach time, ice cream, and spend time in rooftop bars in summer while enjoying the mild temperature in winter.

From the start of June through the end of August, French people come to the French Riviera to stay cool during the summer because they don't believe in air conditioning. There are so many things to do in Nice France, that cater to every travel enthusiast. 

Discover sun-kissed shores, and the charming old town, of Nice - this is a place you will remember forever. Being one of the cities hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics, it's a perfect opportunity to explore or revisit the city. Read more about the 20 best things to do and activities in Nice that you simply cannot miss.

20 Top Things to Do In Nice France

1) Take a Stroll Along the Promenade des Anglais

Perhaps the thing to do in Nice isn't that you shouldn't miss seeing such an iconic promenade. With breathtaking views of sparkling azure waters, this seaside walk stretches for miles along the Mediterranean. Walking, jogging, or just standing to watch the passing crowds is the wonderful experience of a city. 

You can book Nice: Self-Guided Discovery Pack through which you can visit the iconic building that includes the Promenade des Anglais, Marc Chagall National Museum, Castle Hill and Nice Cathedral.

2) Explore Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Old Town, or Vieux Nice, is a whirlwind of narrow streets lined with colourful shopping and local markets, and the ambience that you would embrace in walking through this area breathes the history of Nice into your lungs. Don't forget to visit Cours Saleya, the heart of the old town, a joyous market square, one of the things to do in Nice France.

3) Visit the Matisse Museum

A Matisse Museum visit is worth considering for art lovers going to Nice, France. Inaugurated in the heart of Cimiez, the famous French artist Henri Matisse spent many years of his life here. The museum collections provide comprehensive knowledge of artistic development.

4) Relax at Beaches

Along this promenade are the pebble beaches for sunbathing or leisurely soaking up some rays. There are public and private beaches that can be accessed along this promenade where visitors can take time out to relax along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Days spent by the beach would be one of the best things to do in Nice.

5) Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Castle Hill has splendid views of Nice and its suburbs. The castle itself does not exist, but the park at the top is really beautiful and can be a good spot for hiking or a picnic. Don't miss the stunning views across the Bay of Angels and Old Town—it's one of the things to do in Nice, France that is well worth climbing for.

6) Admire the Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Another very special characteristic of this city is the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. Completed in 1912, it is the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe and provides a glimpse into the rich cultural diversity of the city.

7) Try local food

Among other things to do in Nice, aside from the culinary delights of Nice, try the local dishes such as Socca (a chickpea pancake), Salade Niçoise, and Pissaladière—the ultimate onion tart. These will give you a perfect taste and feel of Mediterranean influences, and you must try them if you are thinking of what to do in Nice.

8) Get lost in the Flower Market

The Cours Saleya Flower Market is a sensory delight and part of local life in Nice, open every day except on Mondays. This place sells fresh fruits flowers and handmade products, and in case you don't need anything, it's an ideal place to have a 'souvenir' or just to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

9) Visit the Marc Chagall National Museum

The Marc Chagall National Museum is home to the largest public collection of works by the world-renowned artist Marc Chagall. This museum is certainly a sanctuary for all the art lovers and admirers of Chagall's work on biblical themes. It often finds its way into the best things to do in Nice for those who love art.

10) Go ashore and explore Port de Nice 

The Port of Nice is one of the most beautiful places in the city, abounding in coloured boats, cafes, and restaurants. Eating in a restaurant by the water or travelling to Monaco or Cannes from here is truly delightful. Without a doubt, staying here is one of the best things to do in Nice. This is the ideal destination in France for individuals seeking a day of leisure.

11) Visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art 

MAMAC is a large modern and contemporary art museum in Nice that displays works from the 20th and 21st centuries, including numerous works of pop art, nouveau realism, and much more.

12) Attend a Performance at Nice Opera House

Attending a show at the Opera House of Nice is a cultural experience that ranks among the top things to do in Nice France. This elegant neoclassical building hosts operas, ballets, and concerts throughout the year, adding a touch of elegance to your journey.

13) Day Trip to Èze Located only a few miles from Nice

Èze is a medieval village situated on a mountain peak with extraordinary views of the Mediterranean. Perhaps the best thing to do in Nice France if you have enough time to make a day trip is to visit this exotic garden in this quaint, charming village.

14) Go for a picnic at Parc de la Colline du Château

If you seek some quiescent isolation, have a barbecue or take a stroll in the Parc de la Colline du Château; this was where Castle Hill once stood, now a place to relax and find refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life.

15) Watch the Nice Carnival

If you plan to visit in February, then one of the most exciting things to do in Nice France, is the Nice Carnival. It truly is one of the largest carnivals in the world, alternating every year with music and float parades.

16) Street-Ending Place Masséna

Le Place Masséna The central square of Nice, Place Masséna, is a beautiful complex of neoclassical buildings. This is a perfect place to start your tour of the city, and the black-and-white checkered floor makes it a wonderful photo location.

17) Enjoy panoramic views from Mont Boron

Panoramic view from Mont Boron, Nice: Nice has some of the world's best vistas. Views cut across this majestic range called Mont Boron, from the city to distant Italian shores. It's excellent for hiking and cycling; thus, one of the best things to do in Nice France, especially for an outdoor enthusiast.

18) Explore the Franciscan Museum

The Franciscan Museum, nestled in the Franciscan Cimiez Monastery, gives us a glimpse into what life was like for the Franciscan monks living in Nice. This little museum, which is off-the-beaten-path, is an oasis from the crowds of city tourists.

19) Visit Palais Lascaris

Palais Lascaris is a true baroque jewel set right in Old Town. This wonderful building houses an impressive collection of 17th and 18th-century musical instruments, making it an excellent destination for those who have a special interest in music or history as part of the things to do in Nice France.

20) Take a Sunset Cruise

You have to spend a romantic sunset cruise along the French Riviera before the day gets dark. There is no better way of spending your final day in Nice than to watch the sun set below the horizon while cruising along the Mediterranean waters. This must be one of the best things to do in Nice France for a very memorable and romantic experience.

Conclusion

From the arts and cultures to beach relaxation, there is no shortage of things to do in Nice France. Whether one is an explorer wishing to track down the historic landmarks of the destination, a foodie who seeks out the culinary aspects of the city, or just a daydreamer, something for everybody abounds. Here are 20 things to add to your itinerary, so you make the most of your trip to the French Riviera.

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