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Must see spots in Nice



With so many places to see in Nice, it should be high on your bucket list.

Nice has its own bubble and the people here are like nowhere else.

And the weather here is like nowhere else.

In Nice, you can relax or you can be a part of the jet-set.

It’s up to you.

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NISSA LA BELLA 

Renamed unofficially by the people of Nice, Nissa La Bella simply means Nice The Beautiful. (pronounced niece)

And Beautiful it is!  There are many must-see spots in Nice and that’s why crowds visit year-round.

It’s the second largest city of Provence Alpes Cote d’Azur after Marseille and hugs the Mediterranean coast.

From Nice, you can also easily go to the mountains for a little trek or take a break in the countryside.

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Related Reading: A Few Ideas for Day Trips From Nice 

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The weather in Nice is like no other place in France, truly the area lives in its own micro-climate sheltered from extreme temperatures.

Sunny year-round warm summers and mild winters are the norm, while elsewhere others are sweltering or freezing.

It would take months to properly visit all the places to see in Nice and discover the vast surroundings.

But if it’s your first time, then start here.  

So here we go for the best places to see in Nice!

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ICONIC MUST SEE SPOT IN NICE: PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS 

promenade blue chairs
Blue Chairs Promenade des Anglais. Photo: VisitNiceToday

English aristocracy spent many winters here during the early 19th century. At that time, the promenade was just a simple dirt path.

There are a few stories surrounding the origin of its name, but one fact we are certain of is that the English community enlarged the path which was financed by an English reverend.

And it became known as the English Path.

Today the Promenade des Anglais is known worldwide and one of the best places to see in Nice.

People here also call it La Prom. Short and sweet and oh so beautiful!

It stretches from the port to the airport, about 8km.

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There is a bicycle lane that continues all the way to St Laurent du Var, but no need to go that far for now, just have fun along the water.

Skaters, strollers, musicians, joggers, and walkers can all be found at some point on the Prom.

You can sit and relax on the famous blue chairs and look out towards the horizon wondering why it took you so long to get here 🙂

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view of negresco hotel with blue skies
Hotel Negresco, Nice Photo: VNT

While walking up and down the Prom, you’ll pass the famous and luxurious Negresco Hotel with its pink dome.

This is a major landmark in Nice and an old traditional hotel well known amongst the upscale hotels in France, in the same vein as the Ritz in Paris.



LIVELY SPOT IN NICE: COURS SALEYA 

Parallel to the Promenade des Anglais, the Cours Saleya is a long pedestrian stretch with restaurants and bars on either side.

It’s most famous for its Flower Market held Tuesday-Sunday. When you visit Nice stopping here is a must.

It’s definitely one of the must-see spots to visit in Nice.

On one end the flower market sells everything from small to complex flower compositions in addition to all sorts of Mediterranean plants and small trees.

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Yellow mimosa plant
Mimosa, Flower Market, Nice. Photo: VisitNiceToday

The other side of the market sells mostly fruits and vegetables but also delicious olives, cheese, and typical local products.

Take a walk through the market first before buying to see what attracts you the most.

Prices differ and it could be a good idea to do a quick comparison while strolling.

Arrive early as this market is usually crowded during late mornings. Vendors start packing up around 1230-1pm.

Bring small change and a big bag.

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market stall must see spots in Nice

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Stop for breakfast, stay after the market for lunch or just enjoy a delicious coffee in the sun and people watch.

On Mondays, the flower-fruit-veggie market is replaced by an Antique Market which starts early in the morning until afternoon.

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MUST SEE SPOTS IN NICE FOR THE VIEW: COLLINE DU CHATEAU 

rooftops over Nice from Castle Hill

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Go up to the castle (chateau). It’s one of the best places to see a great view of Nice.

At the eastern end of the Cours Saleya,  make your way to the Colline du Chateau. It means Castle Hill. But there is no castle here!

There used to be a fortified citadel back in the day.. but it was taken apart by King Louis XIV in 1706.

What remains today is a beautiful park with breathtaking views of the Baie des Anges. You could walk here for hours.

Have a picnic. Let kids play on the giant spider structure. Have a crepe. Go for a jog or a walk. Find the waterfall.

One of the best places to see in Nice to admire the view of the city’s rooftops.

Spend an afternoon or the entire day.

This park is green and has plenty of small paths everywhere to explore.

It’s a cool change (literally)  from the heat during the summer months.

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There are 3 ways to up to Castle Hill.

  • You can climb the stairs if you’re into some serious exercise.
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  • You can wait in line to take the elevator which requires a fee then walk the rest of the way.
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  • Or you can take the little Tourist Train (fee) that departs from the Promenade des Anglais.
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  • All three options are good depending on the age of the children and your endurance.

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BEST PLACES TO SEE IN THE OLD TOWN 

Nice street cafe in old town

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When you visit Nice, this includes wandering into the Old Town or as the Nicois call it, le Vieux Nice, or Le Vieux for short.

One of the places to see in Nice that will completely transport you to another time.

Within the old town walls, discover the labyrinth-style streets filled with all types of small shops and cafes as well as restaurants, pubs, and small theaters.

Here, everyone knows each other, it’s like a village within the city and there is always something to do with great people watching.

Besides the tourists, the old town is a small microcosm of real people who work hard and raise families.

Day or night,  it gets crowded during the summer with overflowing bars and restaurants.

So for a little peace and quiet find a small restaurant on a hidden side street and try some local foods.

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place rosetti places to see in Nice
Old Town. Nice, Photo: VisitNiceToday

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As one of the must place to see in Nice, you can enter the old town from several sides, including from Cours Saleya, from Place Massena (behind the fountain of the naked statue) as well as the other side of town close to the Mamac.

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CATHEDRAL SAINTE REPARATE 

place rosetti Nice
Place Rossetti, Nice

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The old town has a few squares to its name, but Place Rosetti is the largest one and on the list of places to see in Nice.

On one side the beautiful baroque Sainte Reparate Cathedral cannot be missed.

Sainte Reparate is the patron saint of Nice and the cathedral is a historical monument.

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St. Reparate church old town nice
Sainte Reparate, Old Town, Nice. Photo: VisitNiceToday

It has been restored and cleaned up so now its colors are fresh and vibrant giving it the beautiful look it deserves.

The inside gives a sense of peace to its visitors due to the harmonious decorations and the acoustics are fantastic.

So make sure to check out if there are any concerts at the time of your visit.

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.Around Place Rossetti restaurants try to squeeze in as many tables as possible making it a lively place during summer.

Don’t forget to also check out Fennochio for ice cream or sorbets.

They have over 50 flavors and some I’ve never tried like Bailey’s, lavender or cinnamon.

An ice cream lover’s paradise.

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MUST SEE SPOTS IN NICE IN THE CIMIEZ NEIGHBORHOOD 

Back in the days of the Roman empire, Cimiez, called Cemenelum was the administrative center of the Alpes Maritimes area.

It’s located on a hill (of the same name) in the northern part of town.

Today, this residential neighborhood is one of the places to see in Nice where you can admire beautiful “Belle Epoque” architecture, and ancient ruins, visit a museum, and discover an old Franciscan monastery.

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 JARDINS DES ARENES DE CIMIEZ 

The first thing you notice when you enter the Jardin des Arenes de Cimiez is how green it is!

Beautiful olive trees lined up everywhere. Some are over 100 years old and the park is a perfect place to spend the day with the family.

Have a picnic and bring a ball or board games to just chill out.

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tree-flower-garden
Olive Trees, Nice. Photo: VisitNiceToday

The entrance to the park is free of course, but the onsite cafe where you can sit in the sun and be happy – is not.

Go anyway to people-watch and just relax.

On Sundays (and sometimes on a national holiday) during the month of May, the park organizes La Fete des Mai.

It’s a traditional and very popular event and if you’re in the area at that time it’s great fun and a worthy place to see in Nice.

The park sets up delicious food stands and sells local foods like pan bagnat and pissaladiere, music for dancing, shows and concerts, makeup for boys and girls, inflatable tobogans, and lots of other activities.

Perfect to keep everyone busy and happy.

Expect long lines.

The Matisse Museum is within the park.

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WHAT’S LEFT OF THE RUINS? 

Jardin des Arenes ruins Nice
Ruins Cimiez, Nice. Photo Visit Nice Today

If you are in the Jardin des Arenes de Cimiez, you can visit the Gallo Roman ruins close to the east entrance (where the bus drops you off on Boulevard de Cimiez)

You can also get a glimpse of more ruins attesting to the early Roman empire, through the fence further up from Musee Matisse.

You’ll see parts of what was once an arena, amphitheater, and hot-cold thermal baths.

You can reserve a guided tour if you want to see details up close.

For more in-depth archeological facts from the bronze to the Middle Ages, visit the small Archeological Museum on site.

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 MONASTERE DE CIMIEZ 

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Monastere de cimiez in Nice must see spots
Cimiez Monastery. Photo: VisitNice Today

If you leave the park via the large double-sided stairways towards the parking lot, you’ll see right in front of you the humble but beautiful Monastere de Cimiez.

Founded in the 4th century by the Benedictine monks, today the Franciscan monks live here. In 1993 it was declared a historical monument.

Inside you can admire three key paintings of the Italian medieval artist Ludovico Brea as well as other works dating from the 15th to 18th century.

Next door is a beautiful and quaint cemetery where the artists Matisse and Dufy are buried.

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FLOWER GARDEN

Building in Flower garden in Nice

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The Jardin des Fleurs is one of the oldest gardens in Nice and is located right next to the monastery. It’s one of the must-see spots in Nice as it is a hidden gem.

Go through the large gates and follow the aisles filled with stunning and gorgeous plants and flowers.

Make sure to walk all the way to the other end for breathtaking views.

Enjoy the small hideouts of the groomed and manicured alleys for great views.

The cloister near the entrance is not open to the public all the time, but the outside is just beautiful.

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Nice monastery cloister garden
Flower Garden Cloister. Photo: VisitNiceToday

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During the summer months, you can book an outdoor classical concert in this magnificent setting.

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REGINA

Facade of Regina building Nice
Building Belle Epoque Regina Photo: VNT

Located just before the Jardin des Arenes, (on the other side of the street), the Regina is a well-known landmark recognizable by its size.

It’s huge.

This massive luxurious hotel was used by Queen Victoria in 1896 as well as the English aristocracy to escape their dreary winters.

They would occupy the entire west wing for weeks on end and a crown was built on one of the dome towers.

Today the outside is still intact and the interior renovated into upscale apartments and offices.

It’s worth mentioning because it’s a beautiful example of Belle Epoque architecture – and you will pass by it before arriving at the gardens.

Getting To Cimiez

To visit all the places in Cimiez listed above, you can come by car and use the parking lot in front of the Monastery or along the Jardin des Arenes on Av du Monastere.

Or you can take the bus (number 5 near Galerie Lafayette) from Place Massena. It costs 1.50e and takes about 15-20 minutes.

The bus will drop you off in front of the garden. From there everything listed above is within walking distance.

To take the bus back down, return to your arrival point, cross the street and take no. 5 back towards Place Massena from where you started.

Related Reading : Must see hidden spots in Nice

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ART PLACES IN NICE: SQUAREHEAD 

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Tête Carrée, Nice. Photo: Urban Pax

An example of contemporary architecture is near the Acropolis neighborhood created by Sasha Sosno.

This square head is massive measuring 30 meters high and 14 meters wide. Inside are the offices of the municipal library and not open to the public.

However, if your visit to Nice brings you to this area,  just look up, you can’t miss it!

From here it’s a short walk towards the Coulee Verte, a long green stretch of a park where you can picnic or just relax on a bench under a shady tree. It’s one of the must-see spots in Nice to stroll and sit for a bit.

There is a small playground where kids can have some fun and run around.

If you continue walking to the end of the Coulee, you’ll reach the fountains of Place Massena.

They go on and off quite often during the summer and kids just have a blast running through the water.

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view of place massena near the coulee verte

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From Place Massena, it’s an easy walk to the Galerie Lafayette and Jean Medecin for shopping, but I get into this a little further down 🙂

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RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL 

russian-church-gem

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This early 20th-century church was commissioned by Tsar Nichola II, head of the Romanov family.

Although small, it remains a unique example of Russian architecture and religious art outside of Russia.

Nice has quite a large Russian community after the English community.

The interior is extremely charged with religious icons and carved woodwork.

It’s one of the must-see spots in Nice, but it is also a place of worship, so you must respect certain rules.

Admission is free, but guided tours are 10 euros.

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Also going to Saint Tropez? The Best of Saint Tropez

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NEED A LITTLE GREEN? PARC PHOENIX 

If you need a green break when you visit Nice then this is the place.

Kids love this park.

Located close to the airport and across from the sea, it is a perfect and inexpensive way to spend the day.

Entry is 5 euros (free for under 12) and there is a great deal to see.

Visit one of the largest greenhouses in Europe where you can experience different tropical climates, learn about plants, and see exotic birds.

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best-parks-nice-greenhouse
Natural plants parc phoenix

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There is also a large lake with ducks and swans as well as several garden displays with over 2,000 species of plants.

Stop and watch the water show coupled with music for a few minutes.

Get lost in the bamboo labyrinth. Go see the animals and exotic birds.

Different exhibits and activities for kids of all ages are scheduled throughout the year.   Check their website.

Smart idea: Bring your own picnic over buying something at the snack bar – it’s overpriced and not that good…

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Related Reading: Interested in More Parks?



CULTURAL PLACES TO SEE IN NICE: MUSEUMS ANYONE? 

museum wall really??
  • MARC CHAGALL – Amazing and colorful paintings by this famous painter can be at the Musee Chagall in Cimiez. Enjoy his painting depicting biblical stories with enchanting images.

  • MATISSE – Aside from his magnificent paintings, this is the best place to follow the painter’s life from his beginnings through drawings and sketches.

  • MAMAC (Musee d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain)
    Don’t miss the Museum of contemporary art located on the outskirts of the old town. Don’t miss out on some of Warhol’s work, Klein’s famous “Blue” painting, and Nikki St Phalle statues.
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  • MUSEE DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE – A great little photo museum. Each couple of months, they feature well-known – and lesser well-known – photographers.
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    Check here for more museums

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 A LITTLE SHOPPING ANYONE? 

Nice shopping for soap
Soap shop Old Town. Photo credit : VNT

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Of course, when you’re looking for places to see in Nice you want to indulge in some shopping. Avenue Jean Medecin is a long avenue that stretches 1.5 km. from Place Massena all the way up close to the train station.

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massena-arches-checkered
Place Massena Fountain

At Place Massena, you’ll find the famous Galleries Lafayette, a big department store with everything under the sun. A bit on the expensive side, but if you go during the “Soldes” period (sales) you can probably find what you want.

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Continuing upwards on Avenue Jean Medecin, there is Zara, H&M, Sephora, and plenty of other brand names and lesser-known shops that you can stop in.

At the midpoint of Jean Medecin, shop to your heart’s content at the mall “Nice Etoile”.

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entrance to shopping mall Nice etoile
Shopping Mall Nice Etoile. Photo: VNT

3 floors of boutiques, including Hollister, Naf Naf, IKKS, etc… You can also have lunch there and use the ATM machines at the entrance.

If you keep going, your next stop will be Fnac, a large well-known store for books, CDs, Apple products, and electronic supplies.

Right next door is Pull and Bear, and Bershka.

You’ve probably had enough if you get to this point.

But if not, keep going up Av. Jean Medecin for smaller local shops.

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Tired of walking?

Take the tram back down to Place Massena. It’s a straight line and costs 1.50e. If you only shopped for 90 minutes then you can use the same ticket back.

But how realistic is that right?

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Transportation in Nice

You will probably spend most of your time around town like the pedestrian area, the old town, the beach, and Avenue Jean Medecin.

These are all walkable, especially if you take your time and enjoy yourself while getting to different places.

If you don’t want to walk much or want to go to a different part of the city, then you can take the tram to visit other parts of Nice. It’s only 1.50e.

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tram-transport-tracks
Tram Nice

There are only 2 tram lines (the 3rd one is still under construction.

All stops have a map showing the available routes from where you are.

Buy a tram ticket from the machine (at the tram stop) and once aboard don’t forget to slide your ticket through a small machine to get it stamped.

If the tram doesn’t go where you want then take a bus

Note: As of July 2023 you need to buy a 2e card and top it off with the amount you want. You can buy it from the driver for 4e.

You can top it off online by scanning the back of the card. ) check routes here: Lignes Azur

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These few things to do in Nice only scratch the surface.

However, it’s a good start! Ready to explore what this great city is about?

Remember that many places are closed on Mondays. Many shops also close between 12-2 pm.

This almost forces you to take the time for a good lunch!

Enjoy all these must-see spots in Nice. 🙂 Together.

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