From its crystal-clear Mediterranean waters to its charming old town, Nice offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere. On this visit, I had the chance to explore six of its most captivating attractions, each of which left me with unique experiences. Here’s my detailed account of these six must-visit places, along with tips on how to get there, ticket prices, booking options, and my personal recommendations.
1. The Iconic Promenade des Anglais: Where City Meets Sea
The Promenade des Anglais is the heart and soul of Nice, stretching along the coastline with sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. This long promenade is famous for its palm trees, pebbly beaches, and vibrant atmosphere.
Location: The Promenade runs parallel to the Mediterranean coast, starting near the airport and extending to the east side of the city, right into the historic old town of Nice.
How to Get There: It’s easily accessible from anywhere in Nice. If you’re staying near the city center, it’s just a short walk. Alternatively, you can take the tram (Line 2) and get off at the Jean Médecin stop. From there, it’s a 10-minute stroll to the Promenade.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: One of the best things about the Promenade is that it’s completely free. Whether you’re taking a leisurely walk, biking, or just sitting on one of the many iconic blue chairs, you can enjoy the stunning views at no cost.
Personal Recommendation: I highly recommend visiting during sunset when the golden light reflects off the sea, making for an unforgettable experience. It’s also a great place for people-watching and soaking in the local culture. You’ll see families, joggers, and street performers, all adding to the lively atmosphere.
Booking Platforms: No booking required! Just show up and enjoy the experience.
Recommendation Index: 9/10 – A must-see for anyone visiting Nice. It’s simple, yet the views are breathtaking.
2. Colline du Château: A Panoramic Escape Above the City
For those who love a good view, Colline du Château (Castle Hill) offers the best panoramic view of Nice. Although there’s no castle left, the hill provides a beautiful park with waterfalls, ancient ruins, and unbeatable views of both the city and the sea.
Location: The park is located just east of the old town, overlooking the Promenade des Anglais and the Port of Nice.
How to Get There: You can either walk up the hill from the old town or take the free elevator located at the base near the Promenade. I chose to walk, and while the climb is steep, it’s absolutely worth it for the views along the way.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Access to Colline du Château is free, making it one of the best budget-friendly attractions in Nice.
Personal Experience: The walk through the park is peaceful, with plenty of shaded areas, beautiful gardens, and historical remnants. Once at the top, the view took my breath away. You get a sweeping vista of the azure waters of the Mediterranean on one side and the charming old town of Nice on the other.
Booking Platforms: No booking required – just head there early to avoid crowds, especially in summer.
Recommendation Index: 10/10 – Don’t miss this if you love breathtaking views and a bit of history.
3. Musée Matisse: A Journey Through Art and Inspiration
Art lovers should not miss the Musée Matisse, dedicated to the life and works of Henri Matisse, one of the most famous French painters. The museum showcases a variety of his works, from paintings and sculptures to personal items that give insight into his creative process.
Location: The museum is located in the Cimiez area, a peaceful neighborhood away from the bustling city center.
How to Get There: You can take bus number 15 or 17 from the city center to get to the museum. It’s about a 20-minute ride, and the stop is right in front of the entrance.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Admission is €10 for adults, with free entry for children under 18 and discounted rates for students. There’s also a combined ticket option if you want to visit other museums in Nice.
Personal Recommendation: The museum itself is housed in a beautiful 17th-century villa, and the surrounding gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll. The collection spans Matisse’s entire career, and seeing his progression as an artist was truly inspiring. For art enthusiasts, I’d say this is an essential stop.
Booking Platforms: You can book tickets online through the museum’s official website or simply buy them at the entrance.
Recommendation Index: 8/10 – A wonderful experience for art lovers, but if you’re not into museums, you might prefer spending your time elsewhere.
4. Vieux Nice (Old Town): A Step Back in Time
The Old Town of Nice (Vieux Nice) is like stepping into a different era. Its narrow, winding streets are full of life, with colorful buildings, small boutiques, cafes, and historical sites at every turn.
Location: Vieux Nice is situated right next to the Promenade des Anglais, making it easy to access from anywhere in the city.
How to Get There: Simply walk from the city center or the Promenade, as the old town is very centrally located.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: No entrance fee is required to explore the streets of Vieux Nice. However, some individual attractions within the old town, such as the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, may have a small entry fee.
Personal Experience: I spent hours wandering through the narrow streets, getting lost in the beauty of the old town. From the daily market at Cours Saleya to the little art galleries, every corner of Vieux Nice felt like a new discovery. I stopped for some socca, a traditional Niçoise street food, and it was delicious.
Booking Platforms: No booking needed. However, if you plan to dine at one of the famous restaurants in the old town, I’d recommend making a reservation in advance.
Recommendation Index: 10/10 – A must for anyone visiting Nice. It’s a charming blend of history, culture, and local life.
5. Parc Phoenix: A Family-Friendly Botanical Wonderland
If you’re traveling with family, Parc Phoenix is a great place to spend a few hours. This 17-acre park features a large botanical garden, a lake, and even a small zoo, making it a fun and educational spot for both kids and adults.
Location: Parc Phoenix is located near the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which makes it a convenient stop if you have some time to kill before your flight.
How to Get There: Take tram Line 2 and get off at the Parc Phoenix stop. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from there.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Entrance is €5 for adults, and free for children under 12, making it one of the more affordable attractions in Nice.
Personal Experience: The park is well-maintained, and the variety of plants and animals was impressive. I especially enjoyed the tropical greenhouse, which is one of the largest in Europe. It’s a relaxing break from the more tourist-heavy parts of the city.
Booking Platforms: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; no need to book in advance.
Recommendation Index: 7/10 – Ideal for families, but solo travelers might prefer other attractions.
6. Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate: A Spiritual and Architectural Marvel
The Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is located in the heart of Vieux Nice and is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Dedicated to the patron saint of Nice, the cathedral’s interior is filled with beautiful frescoes and ornate altars.
Location: The cathedral is located in Place Rossetti in the old town.
How to Get There: It’s a short walk from the Promenade des Anglais or the Cours Saleya market.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Entry to the cathedral is free, but donations are encouraged to help with its upkeep.
Personal Experience: The cathedral is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling old town. I sat for a while, just taking in the beauty of the space. The sense of history here is palpable, and it’s a great place to reflect and relax.
Booking Platforms: No need to book; just walk in.
Recommendation Index: 8/10 – A serene and beautiful stop, especially for those who appreciate history and architecture.
Nice is truly a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers. Each of these attractions offers a unique glimpse into what makes this city so special, and I can’t recommend visiting them enough.
