Want to know is Nice France worth visiting? It’s the second most visited city in France and the “Queen of the French Riviera”. As the largest city on the Riviera – called the Cote d’Azur in French, Nice is one of the primary hubs for flying into the South of France. With its azure waters, pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and perfect weather year-round, Nice is a captivating destination to say the least. Read on to find out why is Nice France worth visiting, and dive into the natural and cultural attractions of the region.
Travelling in Nice
Nice is a very walkable city, so you will not need a car to get around. However, it has great and cheap public transportation options for those looking to get around by tram or bus. A tram or bus ticket costs just 1.50 euros; you can purchase a day pass for only 5 euros, or a 7-day pass for 15 euros.
If you are planning on travelling in a group or multiple times, it’s worth checking out the MULTI-ticket option, which costs 10 euros for 10 tickets. There are only three tram lines in Nice, with the second connecting Port Lympia (the Old Port) to the airport. Nice also has an extensive bus line, with connections to Cannes, Monaco, and the mountains, to name a few.
Nice beaches
What’s a trip to Nice without paying a visit to one of its many iconic beaches? As a coastal city, Nice has lots of beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, snorkel, and partake in various water sports and activities. Just note that Nice has both public and private beaches.
While the public beaches are free, they can be quite crowded during summer. Picpocketers can be common so make sure to watch your belongings. The private beaches, such as Castel and Ruhl come at a cost and are often attached to the big hotels. They include a beach bar and/or restaurant, private facilities like toilets and showers, lounge chairs, umbrellas, and towel hires.
Nice highlights
When exploring Nice by foot, be sure to check out the city’s numerous pedestrian friendly walkways. The best and most well-known would be the Promenade des Anglais (Promenade of the English) which is a scenic boardwalk that stretches approximately 7 km (4 miles) along the waterfront. Here, you’ll catch mesmerising views of the Mediterranean as you stroll along an esplanade filled with innumerable palm trees, beachside restaurants and bars, and the iconic Blue Chairs. While strolling along the promenade, be sure to stop at some of Nice’s many beaches along the way, as previously mentioned.
Immerse yourself further in the vibrant culture of the city by taking a stroll through Vieux Nice’s (the Old Town’s) cobblestone streets and narrow laneways, while discovering quaint boutiques and cozy cafes serving up delectable French pastries. For a more in-depth, intimate experience of Old Town, it will help to hire a local Nice France travel guide, or join a group walking tour.
Another highlight in Nice that should not be missed is the Colline du Chateau – Castle Hill. This 92-metre hill dominates the city and offers magnificent panoramic views of Nice from all angles. Being a former military fortress, it includes defensive walls, an artificial waterfall, and a lift conveniently built into the rock (the lift does look old and sort of run down, but note that it still works to this day). Head to Castle Hill at any time for exceptional views of the city, located just above the waterfall, or take in views of the Old Port of Nice from the other side.
Boat trip Nice France
There are many different boat trips or tours you can take in Nice, from local sightseeing tours to relaxed cruises and ferries to other destinations like St Tropez. Whether you’re looking to explore on your own, cruise with your loved ones, or join a guided tour, Nice has it all! Check out sites such as Viator or TripAdvisor for seasonal deals.
Culture and Entertainment
Along with beaches, boat tours, and charming architecture, Nice also has an array of food and music festivals, bustling markets, and shopping for locals and internationals alike. The Nice Carnival is one of the world’s largest, and attracts visitors from all over the world with its lavish parades, elaborate floats, and lively festivities.
The Place Massena, the main square of Nice, hosts many events including the Carnival and Nice Jazz Festival. It is a great starting point for a tour through the city, as it is located right in the heart of Nice. The square also connects the Old Town to the city centre, and is just a short stroll away from the Promenade des Anglais.
The Cours Saleya market, which takes place every week, hosts a number of smaller outdoor markets including an artisans market, flower market, and antiques market. For shopping head to nearby Avenue Jean-Medecin, easily accessible by foot or tram.
Nice to Provence day trip
Nice serves as a gateway to the French Riviera and Provence. Due to its strategic location, travellers can easily embark on exciting day trips to nearby regions, including Cannes, Monaco, Italy, and the region of Provence. For instance, you can hop on a train to Aix-en-Provence, a charming commune of rolling vineyards, lavender fields, and picturesque villages. Being in the middle of the French countryside provides a welcoming contrast to the coastal allure of Nice.
Is Nice France Worth Visiting?
As you can see, Nice is well worth the visit. Whether you’re a beach lover, culture aficionado, or someone simply seeking a blend of sightseeing and relaxation, Nice’s ideal climate has something for everyone. And with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s the perfect European destination for a beach holiday. So, start planning your next vacation to Nice la Belle today!
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If your interested in exploring more about France feel free to read along about our time in Northern part of France
