15 Best Things To Do In Nice

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Nice, located on the French Riviera in the southeastern corner of the country, is a beautiful and vibrant city known for its stunning sun-kissed beaches and stunning architecture. From historical tours to outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Nice should you be visiting. Whether it’s your first time or you are a returning visitor, this article will take you through some of the best things to do in Nice and provide helpful tips along the way.

1. Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a world-famous seaside promenade in Nice. It stretches along the Mediterranean Sea for around 6 miles and is a popular destination for locals and tourists. Its name comes from the English aristocrats who visited the area in the early 19th century and as a result built many of its buildings to reflect their own architectural style.

Today, visitors can find plenty to do while walking down this iconic path in Nice. The beachfront esplanade offers spectacular views of the ocean, while nearby there are beaches where people can relax, play games such as volleyball or jeux de boules (pétanque), or simply take in the sunshine. There are also parks with playgrounds where families can spend time together or engage in activities like roller blading or biking around the city's many plazas and squares.

2. Vieille Ville

Vieille Ville, or Old Town, is a beautiful place to experience history and the culture of the region. Located along the French Riviera, Vieille Ville is a picturesque neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets lined with buildings dating back centuries. The colorful architecture and inviting atmosphere of the old town make it a popular tourist destination.

The old city of Nice has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years due to strict preservation laws which have been enacted over time to protect this unique piece of European history. Many landmarks within the Vieille Ville area are listed as historic sites by UNESCO, including the 11th century Basilica de Notre-Dame de Nice, one of the oldest churches in France. Visitors can also find excellent restaurants and cafés featuring local French cuisine throughout its ancient streets.

3. Musée Matisse

The Musée Matisse in Nice is a unique and interesting museum that captures the beauty of artist Henri Matisse’s work. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore his art from different eras of his life, from early impressionist pieces to later cutouts he created in the 1930s.

Guests can also learn about Matisse's story, as it is told through photographs, documents, letters and rare works on display at the Matisse museum. Gaining a greater understanding of Matisse’s art is further complemented with the lush gardens and courtyards surrounding the building. The grounds offer tranquility and inspiration while giving guests insight into how color palettes were used by Matisse himself throughout different stages of his life.

Contact:

Address: 164 Av. des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 93 81 08 08

4. Parc de la Colline du Château

Parc de la Colline du Chateau is one of the city's most beautiful attractions and one of the top things do in Nice. Located on the hill that used to be home to Nice's historic fortifications, it offers stunning views of both the city and the Mediterranean ocean. On a clear day, you can view all of Nice from atop this picturesque park.

The park itself is well-maintained and has plenty of green spaces for visitors to relax in. There are walking paths so people can take a leisurely stroll through the area or explore more deeply if they choose. Parc de la Colline du Chateau also contains many monuments dedicated to famous figures throughout French history, making it a great place for tourists interested in learning about local culture and traditions. The gardens feature an array of flowers and trees that add to its beauty as well.

5. Musée Marc Chagall

The Musée Marc Chagall in Nice is a spectacular destination for art lovers and history buffs alike. Located on the French Riviera, this museum displays the works of Marc Chagall, one of the most renowned Jewish-French painters of the 20th century. The Chagall museum was opened in 1973, when it received over 200 paintings from Chagall himself that spanned his entire career. Additionally, many masterpieces from other artists are also on display here, including Picasso and Joan Miró.

The museum’s main exhibit revolves around Chagall’s work - divided into seven sections that showcase his different artistic periods. Each section features paintings with vivid colors and interesting forms that draw visitors into their stories. There are also interactive displays which further explain his influences, techniques and themes in an engaging way for everyone to appreciate and understand.

Contact:

Address: Av. Dr Ménard, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 93 53 87 20

6. Nice Cathedral

The Nice Cathedral is an incredible monument of Gothic architecture located in the Nice Old Town that should be on your bucket list while sightseeing in Nice. The cathedral was built between 1650 and 1868 and stands as one of the largest churches in the area. From its exterior, you can immediately appreciate its stunning neo-Gothic style with flying buttresses which add to its majestic look. Inside, you can find a long nave and two side chapels along with a crypt that houses the tombs of several local clergymen.

The most impressive aspect of the Nice Cathedral is definitely its interior décor. The stained glass windows are particularly beautiful, allowing sunlight to illuminate all corners of the church while also depicting important religious scenes from Christian history. There are also numerous sculptures throughout which showcase intricate details and skilled craftsmanship.

Contact:

Address: 3 Pl. Rossetti, 06300 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 93 92 01 35

7. Musée Masséna

One of the places to see in Nice is the Musée Masséna, as this is one of the most renowned art museums, galleries and cultural centers in France. Established in 1915 and located at Place Massena, it has become an important part of local life and culture over the past hundred years. As a cultural hub, the museum offers a variety of events and activities that bring together locals and tourists.

The permanent collection houses many works of art from ancient Egypt to contemporary pieces by local artists. Visitors can explore several different galleries including Egyptian antiques, sculptures, paintings and more.

 Additionally, there are frequent special exhibitions that feature temporary collections from international artists as well as the work of local students. The Masséna museum also hosts educational programs such as lectures and interactive workshops for adults and children to learn more about art history and culture.

Contact:

Address: 65 Rue de France, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 93 91 19 10

8. Parc Phoenix

Parc Phoenix in Nice is a haven for relaxation, leisure and exploration. Located right near the city center, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Spanning an area of 20 hectares, the park is home to sprawling gardens, a tropical greenhouse, winding paths, fountains and an artificial lake. You can pack a picnic or relax on one of the many benches provided while taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and its colorful landscape.

The Phoenix park also houses numerous performance spaces including both indoor and outdoor amphitheaters where you can enjoy music concerts throughout the summer months. And if that's not enough to keep you entertained, there's plenty more to see - from exotic plants found in their botanical gardens to playful peacocks roaming free about the grounds.

9. Monastère de Cimiez

The Monastère de Cimiez, is an incredible architectural wonder that is steeped in history and culture and one of the best things to see in Nice. Located atop the Colline du Château hillside, it provides breathtaking views of the Mediterranean city from its grounds. Built in 1587 by the Franciscan order, this monastery was home to many monks for centuries. Nowadays, it serves as a tourist attraction for visitors who come to marvel at its beauty and wander through its hallways on the Castle hill.

Inside, one can find a large courtyard that leads to two wings containing dormitories and offices. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the impressive library with its thousands of books on religion and philosophy, or admire beautiful frescoes from various periods dotting all over the walls throughout the building’s interiors.

Contact:

Address: Place Jean-Paul II Pape, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 93 81 00 04

10. Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain

The Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain is a vibrant, internationally renowned museum dedicated to contemporary art. This spectacular institution opened its doors in 1990 as the first modern and contemporary art museum in the South of France. It has since become one of Nice's most famous attractions and an essential part of its cultural landscape.

Housed inside a striking modern building, the museum boasts over 20,000 works by some of the world’s most renowned artists including Picasso, Matisse, Chagall and others. Visitors can experience various exhibitions featuring both permanent and temporary collections that range from painting to sculpture to photography. The gallery also offers guided tours on certain days so tourists can gain insight about the featured works from knowledgeable staff members or audio guides for a self-guided tour.

Contact:

Address: Place Yves Klein, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 97 13 42 01

11. Mont Boron

Mont Boron is one of the most picturesque locations near Nice, France. It's a mountain that overlooks the city and provides breathtaking views of the city and Mediterranean Sea. On top of Mont Boron there are several parks, gardens, and monuments that make it an ideal spot to take in some fresh air and explore its nature.

The area around Mount Boron is also known as one of Nice's prime spots for finding local cuisine. The winding streets offer plenty of charming bistros, cafes, and restaurants to choose from. Many of them specialize in using locally grown ingredients for their meals which makes for an unforgettable dining experience that can't be found elsewhere.

12. Jardin Albert 1er

Jardin Albert 1er is one of the most beautiful public parks in Nice. Located near the beach, it stretches along the Promenade des Anglais, offering amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy – from its tranquil gardens to its wide range of sculptures, fountains and monuments. There are plenty of benches available throughout the park for those who want to sit and admire their surroundings in peace.

The park is especially popular during summer months when people come to relax and enjoy picnics under the trees or stroll through lush lawns while they are visiting the beach. There is also an outdoor amphitheater that holds cultural events like opera performances and various other activities throughout the year. Jardin Albert 1er also has a large playground area with swings and slides as well as a small pond filled with fish for children to explore.

Contact:

Address: 2-16 Av. de Verdun, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 97 13 20 00

13. Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas

The Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas in Nice is a stunning example of Russian architecture and design. This breathtakingly beautiful cathedral stands as a testament to the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church in this area of France, and its intricate detail provides insight into an art form that is centuries old.

Constructed between 1902 and 1912, this magnificent church features traditional Byzantine style elements with its brightly colored dome and elaborate frescoes lining the walls. It has become one of the most visited sites in Nice due to its grandeur, with many tourists coming from all around the world to take in its beauty.

Inside, visitors are met with extravagant imagery depicting scenes from Greek mythology alongside religious iconography from both Eastern and Western Christianity.

Contact:

Address: Av. Nicolas II, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 9 81 09 53 45

14. Musée des Beaux-Arts

The Musée des Beaux-Arts in Nice is the largest museum of fine arts in France outside of Paris, and one of the best places to visit in Nice. Located across the street from the beautiful Promenade des Anglais, it houses some extremely impressive works of art, including pieces by Matisse and Chagall. Visitors to the museum are treated to an experience that provides a glimpse into French culture through its stunning collection of paintings, sculptures and artifacts.

The permanent collection at Musée des Beaux-Arts features over 2,400 artworks from different periods in history beginning with Ancient Greek and Roman antiquities up until modern times.

Contact:

Address: 33 Av. des Baumettes, 06000 Nice, France

Phone: +33 4 92 15 28 28

15. Place Garibaldi & Le Petit Marais

Place Garibaldi & Le Petit Marais is an amazing destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the French Riviera. Situated in the heart of downtown Nice, Place Garibaldi offers locals and tourists alike a variety of upscale restaurants, bars, and boutiques to explore.

To the south of Place Garibaldi lies Le Petit Marais – an area quaintly referred to as “The Little Swamps” by locals. This hidden gem provides visitors with a unique mix of traditional French architecture and modern-day amenities that can be found within its many historic buildings. Here, one can find cobblestone streets lined with stunning buildings from centuries ago, as well as luxury condos that overlook the Mediterranean Sea.