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Home » Nice and its surroundings

Nice with children: 13 kid-friendly activities

By Myriam BENDRISS MUDIBU, Region Lovers | June 5, 2026 | contains affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

Nice is a dense Mediterranean metropolis with a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. Between the seaside, museums, Old Nice and its hilltop parks, the city has plenty to offer families. We’ve looked at it in detail and think it’s a good idea, provided the program is adapted to the age of the children. Discover our ideas for what to do in Nice with children, illustrated with photos. Bonus: useful tips for organizing your family holiday.

Discover our selection of the best things to do with children in Nice: outings, attractions and practical advice.

This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the area anonymously, making our own choices, and paying all our bills in full.

Content
Visiting Nice with children: a good idea?
1. Parc de la Colline du Château
2. Nice Natural History Museum (currently being refurbished)
3. National Sports Museum and Allianz Riviera Stadium
4. The Little Tourist Train tour of Nice
5. The 1900s merry-go-round in the Jardin Albert 1er
6. Nice Botanical Gardens
7. The Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges
8. The Azzurro glacier in Vieux Nice
9. Cours Saleya and its market
10. St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral
11. The Matisse Museum
12. Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC) – currently under construction until 2028
13. Nice’s beaches for all the family
Where to eat in Nice with children
Where to stay in Nice with your family
Visiting Nice with children in season
Frequently asked questions

Visiting Nice with children: a good idea?

For what age group is this city suitable?

In our view, Nice is a city that works well from the age of 6-7 for children able to walk for reasonable lengths of time and enjoy a varied urban environment. The Natural History Museum, the Parc de la Colline du Château and the National Sports Museum are all easily accessible at this age. For teenagers, the range of cultural and sporting activities is even wider. Families with young children or strollers will encounter real constraints: cobbled streets in Vieux Nice, stairs in several museums classified as historic monuments (the Palais Lascaris, in particular, has no elevator), and pebbles on the beaches that make swimming less obvious. We recommend the baby carrier for toddlers.

waterfall
Waterfall at Parc de la Colline du Château

Why visit Nice with your family?

The city offers a wide range of activities within easy reach: green spaces with playgrounds and waterfalls, beaches along the water’s edge, themed museums, many designed for a broad public, and an efficient public transport network. We appreciate the fact that places like Colline du Château and Promenade du Paillon offer high-quality free alternatives. What’s more, the city center is largely pedestrianized, which limits car traffic. The city also offers a practical 4-day Museum Pass for families wishing to combine several cultural visits. See details on the official website here.
For families who like to take a break from nature, Nice’s Botanical Gardens also offer a quieter alternative, away from the city center and ideal for children curious about Mediterranean plants and landscapes.

Promenade du Paillon
Promenade du Paillon

Our advice before you leave for a family holiday in Nice

Avoid July and August if you don’t like crowds: the crowds are large and the heat can make outdoor strolls uncomfortable for children. We recommend spring or autumn, the most pleasant periods for visiting on foot. Book your accommodation as early as possible, as prices rise in high season. If you’re traveling with a stroller, be sure to check the accessibility of the site, as some of Nice’s museums are listed as historical monuments and have neither elevators nor adapted access. And don’t forget to bring a hat and sun protection, even during the summer months.

WHERE TO STAY IN Nice

Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels

On the waterfront, with a view of the sea:
Anantara Hotel – see prices, photos and availability

In the new town, near the sea:
The Apollinaire Hotel: elegant and bright— see prices, photos and availability

In the old town, with all its charm:
AMMI Vieux Nice Aparthotel: convenient and pleasant— see prices, photos and availability

See our complete selection of the best hotels in Nice

See available accommodation for your dates >>.

1. Parc de la Colline du Château

Parc de la Colline du Château Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

This 19-hectare park above the old town is one of our top recommendations for families in Nice. It combines nature, space for running, children’s games, waterfalls and a panoramic view of the Baie des Anges and the city’s ochre roofs. Children will find plenty to keep them busy, with a playground, fitness area, restaurant and snack bar on site. We also noted the presence of the archaeological ruins of a thousand-year-old castle, a point of interest for slightly older children. And there’s an anecdote that surprises the first arrivals: a cannon shot is fired every noon from the hill, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. Prepare your children to avoid fright!

Parc de la Colline du Château Nice - waterfalls

What we liked

Access via the stairs from the old town is itself a little adventure for curious children. From the summit, we took a bird’s-eye view of the roofs of Nice, the details of the dome of Sainte-Réparate Cathedral and, in the distance, the mountains on one side and the Mediterranean on the other. A green space in the heart of the city that we believe appeals to adults and children alike.

Practical advice

  • Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on the chosen method of access
  • Opening hours: daily, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (April to September); 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (October to March)
  • Difficulties and PRM access: access on foot by stairs from the old town or by elevator (check availability on site); strollers difficult on the trail
  • Admission: free access to the park
  • Access: on foot from the old town; by car via Montée Montfort near Port Lympia; by elevator near the Promenade des Anglais; with the Petit Train touristique (tourist train)
  • Parking: pay parking lot (climb up near Place Garibaldi and Rue Catherine-Ségurane) – cars can only enter the cemetery, the rest is on foot

See our dedicated article on the Parc de la Colline du Château in Nice.


2. Nice Natural History Museum (currently being refurbished)

Nice Natural History Museum - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

With over a million specimens in zoology, botany and geology, this museum is one of the most child-friendly in Nice. The content is varied and accessible: birds, reptiles, mammals and insects from the Mediterranean coast, as well as fish, flowers and mushrooms from the Nice region. The documentation is thorough and the itinerary well organized to accompany children in their discoveries. We found this place to be really family-friendly, unlike many of Nice’s more adult-oriented museums. Children as young as 5-6 can find plenty to feed their curiosity, especially if they’re drawn to the animal world.
The Museum is currently undergoing a redevelopment program. Check open spaces and visiting conditions before you go.

Our guide to planning your visit to the Nice Natural History Museum: access, points of interest and practical advice

What we liked

The richness of the collections is real, and the emphasis on local species gives a concrete dimension to the visit: children can make the connection between what they see in the museum and what they observe in the park or on the beach. We also appreciate the museum’s central location, opposite the MAMAC and behind the Place Garibaldi, which makes it easy to combine this visit with a stroll around the neighborhood.

Practical advice

  • Visit duration: 1h to 1h30
  • Opening hours: Usually open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm.
  • Difficulties and PRM access: located in the city center, access to be checked on site.
  • Rates: municipal museum, rates available on the City of Nice website, included in the 4-day Museum Pass here
  • Access: in front of the MAMAC, behind Place Garibaldi – access on foot from downtown

See our article on Nice’s Natural History Museum.


OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
  • Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
  • Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
  • Remember to take outcomprehensive insurance (some roads are winding and narrow).
  • There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See the cars

See our tips

3. National Sports Museum and Allianz Riviera Stadium

Musée National du Sport Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

Located in the Saint-Isidore district to the north of the Arenas neighborhood, right inside the Allianz Riviera Stadium, this museum is clearly suitable for young and old alike. It pays tribute to French sporting figures through interactive and immersive exhibits, authentic racing suits, medals, jerseys and touch screens. Cycling, combat sports, ball sports, motor racing, Olympic Games timelines: virtually every discipline is represented. We chose to combine the visit to the museum with a guided tour of the stadium, a good option for families with children who are fans of soccer or sport in general. Teenagers will find more to get excited about, but interactive exhibits work well from age 8 upwards.

Musée National du Sport Nice - interactive screens

What we liked

It was an enriching experience, even for those of us who aren’t particularly soccer fans. The diversity of disciplines covered and the explanatory panels maintain interest throughout. We particularly enjoyed the section devoted to the Olympic Games and the on-screen athlete interviews. The atmosphere of the stadium on a guided tour adds a truly immersive dimension for children.

Practical advice

  • Length of visit: 1h to 1h30 for the museum alone; 1h30 to 2h with the guided tour of the stadium
  • Schedules: please enquire at the stadium, depending on the event.
  • Handicap access: stadium and museum accessible
  • Prices : Book your ticket now to save time!
  • Access: Tramway Line 3 (Stade stop); Bus Lines 11 and 59 (Saint-Isidore)
  • Parking: a parking lot is located close to the stadium

See our article dedicated to visiting the Musée National du Sport and the Allianz Riviera Stadium.


4. The Little Tourist Train tour of Nice

Nice Little Tourist Train - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

Nice’s Little Tourist Train is a great way to introduce children to the city without tiring them out from the start. Electric and comfortable, it departs from the Promenade des Anglais and offers two tours with commentary via audioguides in 8 languages. For families arriving with no prior knowledge of the city, it’s an effective way of identifying neighborhoods and then deciding what to explore on foot. We see it as a good first stop on a visit rather than a central activity – but for very young children or families who can’t walk much, it’s still a practical option for discovering Nice. Access is included in the French Riviera Pass.

What we liked

The 2-tour formula allows you to adapt the itinerary to the time available and your desires. The audio commentaries are accessible to a non-French-speaking audience, making them ideal for international families. We also like the fact that this train serves the Colline du Château, which means families with young children don’t have to walk up the hill.

Practical advice

  • Length of visit: depending on the tour chosen
  • Length of visit: approx. 45-50 minutes depending on the tour chosen, with a 10-minute stop at Colline du Château for the castle tour.
  • PRM difficulties and access: accessible train; check for specific needs
  • Rates: included in the French Riviera Pass
  • Access: departure from the Promenade des Anglais
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All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in Provence a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!

Box Ebook Corsica FR

5. The 1900s merry-go-round in the Jardin Albert 1er

1900's merry-go-round Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

Installed in the Square Yitzhak Rabin, at the end of the Promenade du Paillon, this Belle Époque carrousel is a natural fit for a stroll along Nice’s Coulée Verte. Children immediately identify it by its bright lights and colorful illustrations. It’s a machine over a century old, with horses, carriages and turnstiles dressed in moldings. A tour lasts just under 5 minutes, and the wait is generally short. We’ve climbed up there ourselves, and it’s a convivial affair with a musical backdrop. It’s a short but popular break for children, ideal for marking a stage in a day’s outing. Convenient for families with children aged 3-4 and over.

What we liked

The care taken to preserve this object is clearly visible. The illustrations and colorful details make this ride stand out from modern models. We also noted that the adult accompanying a child can take the tour free of charge alongside him or her, which is a nice touch.

Carousel

Practical advice

  • Tour duration: 5min per tour
  • Opening hours: please ask on site
  • Access for disabled people: open-air, accessible on foot from the Promenade des Anglais
  • Fares: cash payment only; one ticket per person; adults accompanying children ride for free
  • Access: Square Yitzhak Rabin, Promenade du Paillon, Jardin Albert 1er side

6. Nice Botanical Gardens

Nice Botanical Gardens

Why visit with children?

Nice’s Botanical Gardens are a good idea if you’re looking for a nature break away from the city center. It offers the chance to discover numerous Mediterranean and exotic plants in a tranquil setting, with open views of the hills and sea depending on the area. With children, interest depends very much on their age and curiosity about nature: it’s not a playground or a highly interactive activity, but rather an observation walk. We recommend it more with children who are already able to walk quietly and take an interest in the shapes, colors and scents of plants. Located in the Arenas district on the way to Nice Côte d’Azur airport, the Jardin Botanique de Nice covers 3.5 hectares in the hills above Nice. Walking along its hilly paths, we became familiar with the plant world of the Mediterranean coast. In fact, this botanical garden boasts over 3,000 plant species. A timeless moment amidst flowers, bushes, plants and tall trees!

What we liked

We appreciated the peacefulness of the location, which contrasts with the bustle of central Nice. The path allows you to slow down, observe the plants and take a real break in the open air. It’s also a good option if you’ve already visited the city’s great classics, or if you’re looking for a free activity that’s less crowded than the seaside venues.

Practical advice

  • Visit duration: 45 min to 1h30 depending on your pace
  • Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
  • Difficulties and PRM access: outdoor course, with sloping areas in some sectors; baby carriages possible but less comfortable on some sections
  • Rates: free access
  • Access: located to the west of Nice, to be planned as a dedicated visit or combined with a visit to this part of the city.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
  • Great kayak trips in:
    Saint-Tropez to the Ramatuelle reserve
    FromCassis to the Calanques
  • Helicopter flight from Cannes
  • Shuttle service along the coast between Nice and Saint-Tropez
  • Bike tours: eBike in Nice – Mountain biking in the Esterel massif
Kayaking on the Côte d'Azur

7. The Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges

Promenade des Anglais Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

The Promenade des Anglais runs 7km along the Baie des Anges from Nice Côte d’Azur airport to Quai des États-Unis. It’s free, open and accessible to all families, and can be explored on foot, by streetcar or by bike on the cycle path. For children, the seaside naturally holds their attention: the waves, the passing joggers, the water sports on the open sea. We found that Nice has a strong sports culture, which creates a lively atmosphere on the promenade at all hours. The pebble beaches accessible from the promenade are ideal for a swim break – but be aware that pebbles are less comfortable for children than sand. Several public beaches are available along the bay.

Promenade des Anglais Nice - Quai des États-Unis

What we liked

The width of the promenade and the absence of cars make it a pleasant space for families with children who need space. We also found the diversity of the offerings along the route useful: restaurants, cafés and boutiques punctuate the stroll at regular intervals. For organized nautical activities (sailing, kayaking, paddle, boat excursions), see all options here

Practical advice

  • Duration of visit: 1h15 on foot for the entire tour; 25min by tramway; 20min by car
  • Opening hours: free access at all times
  • Difficulties and PRM access: flat, accessible promenade; pebbled beaches less suitable for baby carriages
  • Rates: free access
  • Access: streetcar lines T1 and T2 (several stops) or on foot from the city center

8. The Azzurro glacier in Vieux Nice

Why visit with children?

In Vieux Nice, right next to the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, artisanal ice cream maker Azzurro is a must for families. Established nearly 20 years ago in the old town, it offers real Italian-style ice cream prepared on site, with original flavors: lavender, fig from Provence, mandarin, violet, rose, marron glacé… but also classics for less adventurous children. The possibility of putting up to 10 balls on the cone is an argument that does not leave children indifferent. The establishment is listed by Gault & Millau, and the team works with selected raw materials: Sicilian pistachios, Piedmont hazelnuts, with no artificial flavoring. We visited it several times during our stay.

What we liked

There’s often a wait, but it’s a short one, because the cones are prepared quickly. We found the stop a natural fit for a stroll through Old Nice, with no particular detour. The quality of the products is real and the team’s welcome is relaxed.

Glacier Azzurro Vieux Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Practical advice

  • Visiting time: 10 to 20min depending on attendance
  • Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed on Tuesdays
  • Difficulties and PRM access: open-air counter in the old town, no on-site tasting.
  • Rates: cash only
  • Access: to the left of Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, in Vieux Nice

9. Cours Saleya and its market

Cour Saleya Nice market - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

The Cours Saleya market, on this pedestrian street since the early 19th century, is a sensory stopover that works well with children. The colors of the flowers and seasonal vegetables, the liveliness of the shopkeepers and the architecture of the buildings surrounding the passage keep the attention. We walked around it several times during our stay, and the atmosphere changes according to the time of day and the day. Children curious about local produce and cuisine will find plenty to explore. On the other hand, it’s not a structured place with a program: it’s a free stroll, to be coupled with a visit to Old Nice. The market is open Tuesday to Sunday mornings, with a second-hand market every Monday.

What we liked

Cours Saleya’s central location makes it a natural starting point for the Promenade des Anglais on the Quai des États-Unis side. We took a break on the terrace of Restaurant La Storia, which favors short circuits and market produce – a good address if you want to have lunch in the area.

Practical advice

  • Length of visit: 30min to 1h for the market; an additional 25min to walk along the pedestrian walkway
  • Opening hours: flower and food markets Tuesday to Sunday, mainly in the morning until early or mid-afternoon, depending on the day; antiques market on Mondays, generally from 7am to 6pm. Check the opening times before you visit, especially out of season.
  • Difficulties and access for wheelchair users: pedestrian area, paved ground – baby carriages passable, but beware of uneven surfaces
  • Rates: free access
  • Access: on foot from Vieux Nice or by streetcar, “cathédrale – vieille ville” stop

Read our article on the Cours Saleya here.


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10. St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Saint-Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

Located on Avenue Nicolas II in the Thiers district, this cathedral is one of the largest Russian Orthodox buildings outside the Russian Orthodox world. Its architecture is immediately visible and striking to children: five emerald-colored bulbs topped with gold, a garden with rabbits wandering the aisles, and a decorative style radically different from the Catholic buildings usually visited in France. It was a real change of scene when we arrived at this building. For children, the tour is short, accessible and visually striking. However, the explanations and indications inside are in Russian, which limits understanding without a guide. Please note that photos are not permitted inside.

Saint-Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral Nice - bulbs

What we liked

The garden behind the cathedral is quiet and well-kept, with a marble bust of Grand Duke Nicholas Alexandrovich of Russia in the center. Rabbits roaming freely in the greenery are sure to get the kids going. We appreciated that the tour was free and accessible, although a guided tour in French is available for around 30 euros if you’d like a fuller historical context.

Rabbits

Practical advice

  • Visit duration: 45min to 1h (inside and garden)
  • Opening hours: contact the cathedral directly for information
  • Difficulties and PRM access: check on site
  • Admission: free; guided tour in French approx. €10 (see details here)
  • Access: avenue Nicolas II, Thiers district – 10min walk from the “Alsace-Lorraine” streetcar stop (Line 2). Not to be confused with the Église Saint-Nicolas et Sainte-Alexandra on rue Longchamp.

See our article dedicated to St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral.


11. The Matisse Museum

Musée Matisse Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

The Musée Matisse, housed in the Villa des Arènes on the Colline de Cimiez, has been home to the essential works of Henri Matisse since 1963. The painter discovered Nice in 1917 and made it his main source of inspiration. For families, this museum is best suited to school-age children (from around 8-10 years old) who are sensitive to shapes, colors and creativity. Works on cut paper, including the famous Blue Nude IV, are often more visually accessible than other painting styles. The itinerary is well organized and the direction of the visit is not imposed, so the pace can be adapted to suit the children. We have noted that the entrance for people with reduced mobility and baby carriages is via the gate at 164 avenue des Arènes or via boulevard de Cimiez, then via the southern forecourt of the villa.

Vitrail Matisse Nice - Tree of life

What we liked

The tour reveals a more diverse body of work than you might imagine: paintings, engravings, drawings, sculptures and stained glass. We particularly liked the L’arbre de vie stained glass window, which holds the attention of even visitors unfamiliar with the artist. The Arenas garden surrounding the villa is also ideal for a family break after a visit.

Atelier Matisse Lab

Practical advice

  • Tour duration: 1h30 to 2h
  • Opening hours: 10am to 5pm (November to end March); 10am to 6pm (April to October); closed Tuesdays, January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st and December 25th. The ticket office closes 30min before closing time.
  • Difficulties and access for disabled people: adapted entrance via the gate at 164 avenue des Arènes or via boulevard de Cimiez, then south forecourt.
  • Rates: €10 per person (normal rate); free for under-18s; 4-day Museums Pass available on the official City of Nice website for access to all Nice municipal museums.
  • Access: bus lines 5, 18, 16, 40, 33, 70 (stop “Arènes / Musée Matisse”)

See our article on the Musée Matisse in Nice.


12. Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC) – currently under construction until 2028

Musée MAMAC Nice - what to do in Nice with children

Why visit with children?

The MAMAC is one of Nice’s most interesting museums for families, provided you plan your visit well in advance – and check when it will reopen, as the museum is currently undergoing renovations, with reopening scheduled for 2028. Its 4 floors span the 1950s to the present day, with works by Niki de Saint Phalle, Yves Klein, Andy Warhol and Marcel Alocco. Contemporary art and Pop Art often generate good reactions in children, who are astonished, question and stop in front of unexpected shapes and colors. We also loved the terrace, which offers a 360° view of Nice, the mountains and the sea – a moment that works well for children and adults alike. This museum left a real impression on us, and deserves to be on your program as soon as it reopens.

Niki de Saint Phalle Collection at Musée MAMAC Nice

What we liked

The direction of the visit is not imposed, which means that the pace can be adapted to suit the children, and certain works can be revisited without constraint. The panoramic terrace is a particular highlight: from up there, you can see the rooftops of Vieux Nice, the mountains in the background and the Mediterranean. We recommend including it at the end of your visit, as a reward after browsing the collections. An elevator is also available for people with reduced mobility and strollers, accessible from the side opposite the main entrance.

Practical advice

  • Tour duration: 1h30 to 2h30
  • Opening hours: the museum is currently under construction – check the official website of the City of Nice before planning your visit.
  • Difficulties and PRM access: elevator available opposite the main entrance, on the other side of the sidewalk; left-luggage locker available on the first floor.
  • Rates: municipal museum – included in the 4-day Museum Pass available on the official Nice website
  • Access: downtown, within walking distance of Place Garibaldi and Vieux Nice

See our article dedicated to visiting the MAMAC Museum in Nice.


13. Nice’s beaches for all the family

Why visit with children?

Nice’s beaches stretch along the Baie des Anges, directly accessible from the Promenade des Anglais. For families, access is easy and free on the public beaches, the best-known of which are Carras and Lenval. The main constraint to anticipate with children: Nice’s beaches are essentially pebble beaches, which makes walking and settling in less comfortable than on sand, and swimming more tricky for very young children. In our opinion, the pebbles are not prohibitive, but are worth anticipating – bring beach shoes. For a quieter, more protected setting, the private Plage de Castel, located below the Colline du Château, is a good option. In high season, however, it remains in great demand.
The Sentier du Littoral, beyond the port, leads to small coves such as Plage de la Réserve, which is quieter in summer.

What we liked

The proximity of the beaches to the city center is a real asset for families: a morning of museums can be extended into an afternoon at the water’s edge without any complex organization. We also noted the diversity of what’s on offer to suit all tastes: free public beaches, private beaches with services, and wilder coves on the Sentier du Littoral. For organized nautical activities (sailing, kayaking, paddle, boat excursions), see all options here

Battery range

Practical advice

  • Visit duration: free
  • Opening hours: free access at all times for public beaches
  • Difficulties and PRM access: pebbles – beach shoes strongly recommended, delicate bathing for toddlers.
  • Rates: free public beaches; private beaches (Castel, Beau Rivage, Bambou) with variable rates
  • Access: from the Promenade des Anglais – tramway Line T1 or on foot from the town center

Read our article on Nice’s best beaches


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Where to eat in Nice with children

Nice’s restaurant offer is extensive, and families will easily find suitable options. There are plenty of terraces in Vieux Nice, and the lively atmosphere works well with children. Restaurant La Storia, on the Cour Saleya, offers local market produce – an address we recommend for lunch in this area. More generously, Niçoise cuisine offers dishes that are accessible to a younger audience: socca, pissaladière, salade niçoise. We’ve listed our best addresses in a dedicated article. In Nice, restaurants don’t always offer children’s menus, but dishes can often be shared and portions are generous. Discover our selection of the 20 best restaurants to eat out in Nice.

Dish at La Storia restaurant in Nice
Restaurant La Storia

Where to stay in Nice with your family

For families, the most practical neighborhoods are Vieux Nice (lively, central and within walking distance of many activities), Jean Médecin (shops, transport) and Cimiez (quieter, close to museums in the north of the city). We recommend booking early, especially in summer when prices and occupancy rise rapidly. Nice has a selection of hotels in all ranges, some of which are well suited to families. Discover our selection of the best hotels to stay at in Nice.

Visiting Nice with children in season

Spring

In our opinion, spring is the best time to visit Nice with your family. Temperatures are mild, sites are less crowded and outdoor activities such as the Colline du Château or the Promenade des Anglais can be enjoyed in comfort. The Cour Saleya market is also more pleasant at this time of year.

Summer

Summer attracts millions of tourists to the Côte d’Azur. The heat can take its toll on young children, especially when visiting museums with little air-conditioning or walking in the sun. We recommend scheduling visits in the morning and reserving beaches and water sports for the afternoon. Also anticipate parking and queues at popular sites.

Autumn

Autumn offers conditions similar to spring: pleasant temperatures, fewer visitors and a sea that’s still passable in September and early October. It’s a good window for families who want to combine cultural visits and swimming without the summer crowds.

Winter

Nice’s winter remains mild compared with the rest of France. Most museums remain open and accommodation prices are falling. In February, the Nice Carnival is a popular event for children: colorful parades, floats and street shows bring the city to life for several weeks. Visit the official website for more info here.

DISCOVER Nice
  • Best things to do in Nice
  • Where to stay in Nice: 15 best hotels
  • Where to eat in Nice: 20 best restaurants
  • The 12 best museums in Nice
  • Best beaches
  • Visit the Palais Lascaris
  • Visit the MAMAC Museum
  • Visit the Museum of Photography
  • Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days – 3 days – 5 days – 7 days
  • Rent a car in Nice (airport or train station)
  • Most beautiful villages around Nice

Frequently asked questions

Is Nice stroller-friendly?

Partly. The Promenade des Anglais, the Promenade du Paillon and the main roads are all within easy reach. On the other hand, Old Nice and its cobbled streets are less practical with a stroller. Several listed museums, including the Palais Lascaris, do not have elevators. Use a baby carrier when visiting the old town.

View of a showcase with mandolins in the Gautier rooms of the Palais Lascaris.
display case with mandolins in the Gautier rooms of the Palais Lascaris

How many days in Nice with children?

Two to three days cover the essentials: Colline du Château, Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice, one or two museums depending on age and interest. A week allows you to go further afield with excursions around the city(Èze, Monaco, Antibes) and explore neighborhoods such as Cimiez or the Arenas. Take a look at our itinerary suggestions: 1 week, 5 days, 3 days, 2 days, 1 day.

When is the best time to visit Nice with your family?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the best times to visit Nice with your family. The heat is bearable, queues reasonable and accommodation prices more affordable than in July and August.

Nice Botanical Garden
Nice Botanical Garden

What to do in Nice if it rains?

A number of museums are well suited to a rainy day: the Natural History Museum, the Matisse Museum, the National Sports Museum or the Asian Arts Museum in the Arenas district. The 4-day Museum Pass is an economical option if you’re planning several visits. The shopping centers of the Jean Médecin district and Old Nice are also good alternatives for a covered stroll. Read our article on the city’s best museums.
There’s also the Phoenix Park, a botanical garden and wildlife park near the Asian Arts Museum. We didn’t visit it.

Interior of the Musée national du Sport in Nice
Interior of the Musée national du Sport in Nice
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur

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Nice train station

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  • The must-dos

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Village of Èze

ramparts Antibes
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SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Myriam


The 10 commitments of Region Lovers
  1. Visit all the places we tell you about.
  2. For each city, sleep in at least one hotel, visit the ones we recommend.
  3. For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
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  5. Update our articles periodically, with the help of our readers.
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  7. Use 99% of our own photos
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  9. Inform about the traveler/writer pairing that gave birth to the article.
  10. Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

Learn more about the team and our history.


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A sister with a passion for travel, an epicurean brother, deep-rooted family values, a team that is growing richer by the day...

the team and our history


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