Hidden Gems in Nice: 4 Off The Path Highlights.
Hidden gems in Nice are out-of-the-way places that aren’t necessarily high on top of the list of things to do.
But if you have more time in Nice, then definitely go check them out.
JARDIN DES FLEURS makes the list of hidden gems in Nice
Sit under an olive tree. Gaze out at the panoramic view of the city below. Have a picnic in a stone gazebo. Walk around, smell the roses, and enjoy for an hour or more.
The Jardin du Monastere de Cimiez, known by locals as le Jardin des Fleurs is located in Cimiez and offers a beautiful and peaceful surrounding.
Flowers are everywhere and all sorts of plants line the alleyways. It’s very clean and well taken care of.
In the summer, treat yourself to a wonderful classical concert near the cloister.
VIEW MORE IDEAS ON THINGS TO DO IN NICE
VISIT A WINERY
Vineyards in Nice? Who would have ever guessed that in a city with turquoise waters and an overload of palm trees, you could also visit a winery?
But you can!
The Chateau de Bellet has over 70 years of experience in winemaking. It’s known for its unique and rare wine due to the soil composition and the structure of the sloped land.
This vineyard belongs to the Barons of Bellet since the 18th century.
If you love wine, then it’s easy to consider this small vineyard as one of the hidden gems in Nice. Enjoy an amazing view as well and learn how they make their special wine.
Join an onsite tour that lasts 45 minutes and costs about 20e.
Reservations are recommended: you can send an email at contact@chateaudebellet.com
Visit their website:
You’ll taste delicious wines, visit the wine cellar, and explore the vineyards.
Location: Chateau de Bellet, 482 Chemin de Saquier.
RUSSIAN CATHEDRAL
The Saint Nicholas Orthodox Cathedrale, one of Nice’s hidden gems is located strangely enough, in a residential neighborhood off of Avenue Gambetta.
In the late 19th century, Tsar Alexander II ordered the construction of the cathedral for the large Russian community in Nice. It was finished in 1912.
Inside the cathedral, you’ll see gold frame icons, frescoes depicting scenes, and a lavishly decorated altar.
It’s small in contrast to the exterior. However, it’s one of the largest ones outside of Russia.
No pictures allowed inside, and you must speak very quietly as it is still today a place of worship.
The cathedral is located about 15 minutes walk from the train station, Gare Thiers.
Or you could Uber.
It’s free to visit, but they ask for donations to keep up the site.
Note: When the Russian community arrived in Nice, they built the first cathedral near Zone Pietonne.
But a short time after, the church became too small as the community grew.
COCO BEACH and SENTIER DU LITTORAL
Coco Beach is on the list of hidden gems in Nice because it’s small and very special.
The name, however, is a bit misleading since there is no real beach here. You also won’t find any snack bars, lounge chairs, or people selling you stuff at Coco Beach.
It’s just a small, beautiful spot with large pebbled rocks and turquoise waters where you can relax, swim, and chill out.
Bring an umbrella if you go at high noon, and maybe water shoes as there are a lot of rocks.
And don’t forget your goggles, you might just spot a gorgeous-looking fish!
When you’re done dipping your toes, climb back up to the port promenade and keep walking towards your right.
You’ll get exceptional views on the way of the harbor, and the lighthouse if you walk far enough.
VIEW FOR MORE BEACH IDEAS ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA
SENTIER DU LITORAL
If you’d like to pursue your walk, you’ll have to go down some steps after the restaurant La Reserve, and follow the marked path: Sentier du Littoral.
This walk lasts for about 1km until you arrive at Palais Maeterlinck, At this point, climb back up and walk back towards your left if you want to come back.
Or walk towards your right if you want to continue another few hours all the way to Villefranche.
Either way, if you’re doing this in summer, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water as there is very little shade.
LIBERATION MARKET
Most people who visit Nice usually go to the market on Cours Saleya, but never make it to the outdoor market in the Liberation neighborhood.
But they should!
Locals come here daily to buy fruits, vegetables, fish, and bread. It takes place on several streets, one being the very long Avenue Malaussena.
There is a smaller indoor market across the tram tracks, that also sells fruits and veggies, as well as cheese, and meats.
WANT MORE MARKETS IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE?
On weekends after they’re done with the market, locals sit at the cafe talking and catching up.
To get here take the tram for 2 stops from Place Massena (or anywhere on Av Jean Medecin). You can’t miss it.
Location: Liberation Neighborhood
Of course, there are other hidden gems in Nice, but start with these if you have extra time while visiting this beautiful city!
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