A curiosity in the vibrant heart of Nice, we were won over by the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate. This Baroque-style edifice is steeped in history and has undergone numerous restorations. It is often said that the cathedral contains the soul of the city of Nice. Let yourself be carried away by its undeniable charm, with its white bell tower, its dome reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and its 19th-century Rococo façade.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Sainte-Réparate Cathedral in Nice.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Sainte-Réparate Cathedral worthwhile?
Yes, for us, Nice’s Cathédralke Sainte-Réparate is well worth a visit. A jewel in the heart of Vieux Nice dating from the 17th century, did you know that this is the city’s 1st medieval building? We learned a great deal about this place of worship and architectural landmark in Nice, listed as a Monument Historique since 1906. You’ll see that the cathedral is dedicated to Sainte Réparate, patron saint of the city and the Diocese of Nice.
It’s one of the best things to do in Nice!
What you can see
The majestic Rococo façade
When you arrive, take time to admire the surprising facade of this building, which was originally a chapel in the 11th century. We loved the architectural splendor and movement of this building, which has been transformed over the centuries since the Middle Ages. The current façade was added in the 19th century and now blends perfectly into the landscape of Vieux Nice.
Exterior statues and ornaments
You won’t necessarily have much of a view of the cathedral, but take the time to have a good look at the many statues and ornaments on the façade before entering. Curved mouldings and decorations bear witness to the Italian Rococo style of this 19th-century addition. We were amazed by the polychromy of this storefront, its abundance of ornamentation and its many sculpted statues. What do you think of this 18th-century artistic movement?
A war memorial stands in memory of the soldiers who gave their lives in WW2, on the right as you face the cathedral.
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).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Part of the dome, a resplendent cupola
Before entering, move a little to your right, look up and, turning your eyes slightly to the left, you’ll see part of the dome. Did you know that this dome is a smaller replica of the one in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome? This beautiful piece can also be admired from another high vantage point, the Tour Saint-François.
Its bell tower
We noticed the differences in color and materials between various parts of the cathedral. The bell tower seems to stand as a separate building from the rest of the edifice. Can you see the white stone lighting up?
If you look closely at the top of the bell tower, this lantern-shaped campanile houses a bell used to call the faithful to prayer. It was this piece that brought construction of the cathedral’s main site to a close in 1757.
Inside, the 2 side aisles
Inside, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of its 2 side aisles. Our eyes were captivated by the detail of the mouldings on the various friezes and the light that penetrated the building. In the 17th century, it succeeded an earlier cathedral at Sainte-Marie du Château on the hill to the east of Nice. The expansion of Sainte-Réparate Cathedral over the centuries reflects the strong growth of the population and the desire to accommodate more worshippers.
The chapels
Inside, we counted 10 chapels, each more sumptuous than the last.
One of our most memorable chapels is the Chapel of the Crucifixion. Acquired and completed between 1679 and 1696, this chapel features a tall wooden crucifix. Admire the latter, which stands in front of an 1837 painting by Joseph Provensau. The painting depicts Saint John, the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene at prayer on Calvary.
Canvas, paint and mouldings
Other sublime delights on our visit: the canvases, paintings and moldings inside the building. Have you noticed that the building is inspired by St Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
The Baroque style is on full display, with paintings, statues, mouldings, sculpture and the richness of the materials used, offering us a veritable feast for the eyes.
The organ
The cathedral features 3 organs. The great organs are located on a gallery. The splendor of the buffet supporting this majestic musical instrument overlooking the nave.
We learned that the cathedral already had a great organ in the early 17th century, but after many restorations over the centuries, the current one you see in the picture dates from 1974, designed by French craftsmen Jean-Loup and Robert Boisseau. 2 other organs are housed in the building: the choir organ to the left of the transept, and the choir organ in the practice room.
The altar
Cross the nave to the altar. The colors, moldings and choice of materials will leave you speechless. A further testament to the Baroque style of this major Catholic place of worship in Nice.
The stained glass windows
Only a few are visible from the nave, but look up and you’ll see the colorful stained glass windows that let the light into the building.
Observe the subtle differences in shape and color that make each stained glass window unique. The frescoes, moldings and sculptures, as well as the many works of art, blend perfectly with the brightly colored stained glass windows. We loved the sparkling effect throughout the building.
WHERE TO STAY IN Nice
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
On the waterfront, with sea view:
Anantara Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
In the new town, close to the sea:
Hotel Apollinaire, elegant and bright – See prices, photos and availability
In the old town, with all the charm:
AparthotelAMMI Vieux Nice very practical and pleasant – see prices, photos and availability
Sainte-Réparate Cathedral, Nice: how to get there
Where is the cathedral?
- In Nice
- Behind the Palais Lascaris
- In the Old Nice district at 3, Place Rossetti
- From Nice-City station = 30min walk and 10min drive
Access by car and parking
Nice’s Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is located in the Vieux Nice district, where most streets are pedestrianized. Access by car is reserved for local residents.
If you’re driving, we recommend parking at the Parking des Arts near the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain de Nice (MAMAC). It’s a 10-minute walk from the cathedral, with vehicle entrance at 18 Avenue Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
Public transport access
- Tramway line 1 (Cathédrale Vieille-Ville stop)
- Bus line 8 (Cathédrale Vieille-Ville stop)
Access on organized tours
Nice’s Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is one of the must-see sites in Nice. You can choose to go there on your own, or include it in an organized tour with a guide, for example:
- With a digital audioguide to explore Old Nice – see program and availability
- Hop-on Hop-off Nice Le Grand Tour bus (get off at the Cathédrale/Vieille Ville stop) – reserve your ticket
- Electric velotaxi private tour – discover the activity
Visiting difficulties
We did not identify any particular difficulties during our visit. The entrance is step-free, so you can visit on the same level.
The official website says it’s accessible to PRMs. We noticed ramps to access certain areas of the building.
There are no indoor WCs, but public toilets are a ten-minute walk away:
- on the Cour Saleya
- on the Crotti descent
- On the Promenade du Paillon
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
- Great kayak trips in:
Saint-Tropez to the Ramatuelle reserve
Cassis 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
Visiting Sainte-Réparate Cathedral: useful tips
Schedules and prices
- Access is free of charge
- Open daily from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm
See the latest information and service times on the official website here.
How long
Allow around 1h to 1h30 to walk around the cathedral, admiring the exterior and the many works of art inside.
Best moment
It is one of Nice’s most important places of worship and a must-see in the city. Tourist numbers can be high all year round, especially in summer! If you prefer to avoid the crowds like we do, go on weekday mornings.
Direction of visit
There’s no set way to visit it, but we recommend that you first take in the entire exterior of the building to see the meticulous architectural details of the façade, dome and bell tower. Then step inside to see its 10 chapels, organs and 2 naves.
Eating out
There is no dining area inside the monument. Note, however, that the cathedral is located in a central square in the old town, where you can sit around a charming fountain. You’re right in the heart of Nice, so take a look at our top places to eat in the Côte d’Azur capital!
Hotels
You’re right in the center of Nice. See our article on the best hotels.
For a stay in a luxury setting, you can also consult our articles on:
- the best 5-star hotels in Nice
- the best hotels on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice
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
