You only haveone day to discover Nice and its gastronomic, architectural, botanical and artistic heritage? This Mediterranean city has a lot to offer, whether you like nature, art, cuisine, urban bustle or peace and quiet by the sea.
In this article, we propose 5 itineraries to visit Nice in 1 day and additional ideas to suit your desires, your budget and your time! There’s something for everyone, with plenty of photos and options to choose from.
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.
The best things to do in Nice on video
You’ll find our suggested itinerary hour by hour, but here’s a short video to show you the beauty and variety of things to see in the city of Nice.
Practical tips for visiting Nice in 1 day
The weather in Nice
Thanks to its ideal location on the Côte d’Azur, Nice enjoys a mild climate. On the other hand, you should be aware that summer temperatures can sometimes reach high levels. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, especially if you don’t like the heat. You can also follow our example and visit Nice and the surrounding area in spring, autumn or winter. Remember to pack light clothing, a jacket and a hat. Don’t forget to keep hydrated during your visit!
Walk or take public transport
Nice s public transport network is well-developed and serves the city’s main points of interest. We had chosen to travel around the city with a transport card valid for buses and streetcars, which made getting around much easier. It’s also a more economical and eco-friendly option if you’re only visiting the city of Nice.
Don’t forget to save time. Depending on traffic conditions, take public transport to avoid traffic jams and parking problems. Nice is a very popular city, where the number of tourists can quickly become considerable.
Taking public transport or getting around on foot is also a great way to discover the city, immerse ourselves in the local atmosphere, meet the locals and explore different neighborhoods. While strolling through the narrow streets of Nice, we discovered restaurants such as Sweet Sisters, Peixes and Les Épicuriens, which were not on our original list. Rest assured, they are now among the best restaurants to eat at in Nice that we have unearthed!
Affluence and anticipation of bookings
Emblematic of the Côte d’Azur, Nice is a popular destination all over the world, and the summer season can be very touristy, with crowds from all 4 corners of the globe. Nearly 5 million tourists visit the city every year, according to the Nice Tourist Office! If you don’t like crowds, you’ll want to stay off-season. As a result, traffic is sometimes heavy in the city center. You’ll have better luck parking in certain areas outside the months of July and August.
When we think of tourist numbers, we also think of anticipation. In fact, if you want to benefit from the best prices for your accommodation and activities, and above all have a choice, we recommend that you make your reservations as far in advance of your departure as possible. Check out the hotels available for your dates, or take a look at our list of the best hotels to stay at in Nice.
The priority: accepting choices
As you’ll see in this article, there really is so much to see and do in Nice! In fact, we’ve listed several ideas for things to do in the Côte d’Azur capital here. Some places require a minimum visit in order to fully discover and appreciate them. Making choices and taking your time are 2 essential things to keep in mind when planning your itinerary in a city like Nice.
Map of Nice’s main museums
Choose the Museums Pass
The City of Nice has a policy of access to culture, enabling its residents to enjoy its museums free of charge or at a reduced cost.
For non-resident visitors, the municipality offers a Museum Pass which gives you access to all municipal museums and galleries for 72 hours for €15. Depending on the activities you choose in this suggested itinerary, you can do the math and see if it will be more economical for you depending on the places you visit. We’ll let you know each time whether or not the activity is included in the pass.
If you decide to opt for this pass, find out more on the city’s official website.
Where to stay in Nice
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
Option 1 – Nice ‘s must-sees in 1 day
You only have one day to discover the essentials of Nice? It’s off for a day focused on the must-sees of this jewel of the Côte d’Azur!
9-10am: Promenade des Anglais and sundial
A must in Nice: a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais is a must! This promenade has run alongside the Baie des Anges since the early 19th century, stretching 7km along the Mediterranean coast. If you look around, you’ll see the azure blue of the water on one side, and a few Belle Époque monuments on the other.
Bordered by palm trees, this promenade is an ideal place for a quiet stroll in the early morning, when you’ll come across runners and cyclists on the adjoining track.
If you continue eastwards along Quai des États-Unis, a small rise emerges in the direction of Port Lympia. Just a few more steps and you’ll reach your destination: the Rauba Capeu sundial pier, with its panoramic view over the Baie des Anges. Designed by astronomer Bernard Milet in 1981, this sundial was installed on the day of the summer solstice, or longest day of the year. A nice tourist attraction to add to your itinerary if you’re in the area.
Discover our 15 ideas of the best things to do in Nice here.
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10h-11h: Parc de la Colline du Château
Enjoying nature in the heart of the city is perfectly possible in Nice. We suggest you continue your morning stroll in a 19-hectare park overlooking the Baie des Anges and just a stone’s throw from the old town and port! This is the Parc de la Colline du Château, from where the traditional cannon shot is fired every noon.
Stroll among the trees, stop to admire the beautiful waterfalls and listen to the soothing sound of the water. The park is also home to a cemetery and the archaeological ruins of a 12th-century castle. Stop off for a picnic, let the kids play on the playground or simply admire the breathtaking view. The ochre and red roofs typical of the Côte d’Azur capital, with the mountains and sea in the background, form a picture worthy of a painter!
11:00-11:30: stroll around Port Lympia
The Port Lympia district is one of Nice ‘s liveliest spots, with its marina and numerous restaurants. Here you can admire the magnificent yachts and sailing boats docked in the port. Take a deep breath to fill your lungs with sea air and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean. In fact, if you pass through the Parc de la Colline du Château mentioned earlier, you’ll have a view of Port Lympia.
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: stroll through Vieux Nice and Cour Saleya
In the late morning, head for Vieux Nice and the Cour Saleya. You’re sure to love the old town, with its picturesque alleyways, artisans, cafés, typical architecture and the Place Saint-François fish market. Palais des Ducs de Savoie (or Palais préfectoral), Opéra de Nice, Tour de l’Horloge and Palais Rusca… Vieux Nice has a rich heritage that’s sure to impress!
You’ll then find yourself on the Cour Saleya, the city’s main pedestrian thoroughfare, where you’ll discover the market stalls. In fact, you can start with this aisle, depending on which side you arrive from. Flowers, seasonal fruit, sunny vegetables, local produce… It’s the ideal place to discover the atmosphere and taste the flavors of the Nice region, as well as meet and chat with the locals.
12:30-14:00: Option 1 – Lunch in Old Nice
It’s lunchtime already! As you’re in the Vieux Nice district, we’re going to suggest 2 addresses in the area that we think are a must-see.
In Vieux Nice, we recommend you try one of the following 2 restaurants:
- Restaurant La Storia: sunny Mediterranean cuisine on the Cour Saleya, typical of the south of France!
- Restaurant Le Panier: gourmet cuisine in a friendly atmosphere, between the picturesque lanes of Vieux Nice.
Our selection of the 20 best restaurants to eat out in Nice.
12:30 pm – 2 pm: option 2 – lunch at La Rotonde restaurant at Le Negresco hotel
In a different mood, we return this time to the Promenade des Anglais on the Carré d’Or side for your lunch. We invite you to visit La Rotonde, the gourmet restaurant of the famous 5-star Le Negresco hotel.
A veritable institution in Nice, this restaurant will transport you into an enchanting universe under a moving ceiling depicting a starry night and an azure sky.
Inventive, refined cuisine based on local, seasonal produce awaits you at this legendary French Riviera palace.
Read our full article on La Rotonde restaurant at the Hôtel Le Negresco.
2:30 – 3:30 pm: the Promenade du Paillon or Coulée-Verte
This walk in the heart of Nice invites you on a botanical voyage in a veritable haven of peace. The city’s Mediterranean climate enables plant species from all over the world to adapt. A good dose of nature within easy reach!
Nices green lung, this promenade forms the Coulée Verte. During our strolls, we discovered many species of plants from 5 continents, chosen by plant architect and landscape designer Michel Péna, as well as several works of art. This green space is around 1.3km long and over 50m wide, from the MAMAC Museum and the Théâtre National de Nice to the Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges.
3:30 – 4:30 pm: visit to Sainte-Réparate Cathedral
After visiting one of the city’s green lungs, walk down a few narrow streets in Vieux Nice to arrive at Place Rossetti. In front of you rises the imposing building of the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, whose present-day monument dates back to the 17th century. Did you know that the 1st building was constructed in the Middle Ages? Take the time to look closely at the mouldings, statues and ornamentation of this superb architectural gesture, inside and out!
Coming soon, our article dedicated to Sainte-Réparate Cathedral.
4:30 pm – 5 pm: ice cream at Azzurro’s artisan shop
As you leave the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate on your right, you won’t want to miss Azzurro, one of the city’s finest artisan ice-cream makers, known for its handcrafted creations for 20 years. Take a break for a bite to eat: the menu includes genuine Italian ice cream. Lavender, figs from Provence, old-fashioned vanilla, violets, roses, tangerines or marron glacé… Scents as original as they are delicious, to refresh your visit!
5pm-6pm: Palais Lascaris – museum of musical instruments
Let’s continue in the Old Nice district, and head for the Palais Lascaris, a former aristocratic residence now a museum of musical instruments. This colorful venue, listed as a historic monument, transported us to another era. With its antique furniture, frescoes, mouldings, works of art and collection of string and wind instruments, it’s sure to delight! Access to this museum is included in the Museum Pass.
Read our full article on the Palais Lascaris – musée des instruments de musique.
6:30-7:30 p.m.: drinks at Le Plongeoir restaurant
Would you like to enjoy an aperitif above the sea? For a drink or a bite to eat, Le Plongeoir is a must-visit restaurant in Nice, open on Sundays. With the added bonus of an idyllic setting: a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea and the lighthouse. It was really poetic, with the clouds and the blues of the sea and sky responding to each other. Admiring the sunset while enjoying a Mediterranean-influenced meal is a unique experience.
Listed as one of our best places to eat, it’s also steeped in history: did you know that in the late 19th century, this rock became the pedestal for a fishing boat? Transformed into a bar perched above the water, it was already possible to eat and drink here during the Belle Époque period. A nice way to end the day?
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in Provence a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
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Option 2 – 1 day in Nice: cradle of artistic emulation
To understand the origins of Nice, its heritage and its relationship with art, why not spend a day dedicated to its unique artistic emulation? Home to modern and contemporary art, you’ll discover a rich cultural offering in the Côte d’Azur capital and symbol of the French Riviera. Here are our suggestions for this day at the museums or find our review of the 12 best museums in Nice.
9h-10h: discover the Cimiez district
Start your day in the waking Cimiez district, a quiet, residential area with elegant, varied architecture, shady streets, pretty gardens and a friendly atmosphere. The major advantage of this district is its cultural heritage.
Several museums and historical sites to visit are located here, including the Matisse Museum, the Chagall Museum and the archaeological ruins of Nice.
10h-11h30: the Matisse Museum
This museum is located in Nice’s Villa des Arènes, where you can admire the essential works of Henri Matisse and the variety of his creations. Paintings, etchings and drawings, as well as sculptures such as the statue Le Serf, the painting Tempête à Nice and the stained glass window L’arbre de vie.
Coming soon, our full article on the Musée Matisse in Nice.
11:30am-12:30pm: The Marc Chagall National Museum
It is one of the few museums created during the artist’s lifetime. You’ll discover the great diversity and richness of his work, with drawings, sculptures, paintings, mosaics, stained glass and tapestries. Admire the Biblical Message cycle, a masterpiece in 17 paintings. The first 12 illustrate “Genesis and Exodus”, and the other 5 the “Song of Songs”. You can also enjoy a stroll through the museum’s garden.
Coming soon, our full article on the Musée Marc Chagall in Nice.
1pm-2.30pm: lunch in the Jean Médecin district or Place Garibaldi
After the effort, the comfort because eating well even on vacation is very important! Gastronomy is part of the journey, and it’s already time to sit down to dinner. Place Garibaldi borders Vieux Nice, the Port district and the Jean Médecin district, where there’s no shortage of good restaurants! Here are a few suggested addresses in the area:
- On Piazza Garibaldi: the Sentimi restaurant takes you on a culinary journey to Italy with traditional flavors.
- In the Jean Médecin district: Les Épicuriens restaurant offers a bistronomic experience in a welcoming, refined setting.
- In the Port district: the Peixes restaurant has designed a menu around fish and seafood for an original and refreshing experience.
Discover our selection of the 20 best restaurants to eat out in Nice.
3pm-4.30pm: discover the famous MAMAC Museum
If, like us, you’re passionate about art, start your day with a visit to the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC). Symbolizing the place of art in the city in our eyes, we enjoyed an artistic experience combining creativity, innovation and emotion. In our opinion, this is a must-see museum in Nice.
The visit is organized in several stages, but the direction is not imposed, so you’re free to choose which collection to begin and end your tour with:
- You can climb to the top floor of the building to enjoy the museum’s rooftop terrace, with its breathtaking panoramic view of the city and in situ temporary exhibitions.
- Then head for the lower floors. One of our favorite sections: the one devoted to Niki de Saint Phalle and her daring works. You won’t be disappointed, but immersed in a fantastic world. His famous “Nanas” reveal his militant spirit, creativity and boundless imagination.
- Finally, the section devoted to Yves Klein is truly captivating. His powerful monochrome canvases and “Anthropometries” in the deep blue of Klein Blue (or IKB) enveloped us in a mystical atmosphere.
We also had access to several permanent collection trays dedicated to Pop Art and modern art. The 1st floor, 5th floor terrace and gallery are reserved for temporary exhibitions. This museum is included with the Museum Pass.
Discover our full article on the MAMAC Museum in Nice.
5-6pm: Musée Masséna
Dedicated to the history of the French Riviera, the Musée Masséna’s tour and collections cover the period from Nice ‘s annexation to France in the 19th century. Stop off at this sumptuous Belle Époque neoclassical villa designed by Danish architect Hans-Georg Tersling. You won’t want to miss it on the Promenade des Anglais, as its small garden adjoins the Palace Le Negresco.
There are many beautiful pieces to see in this museum, and these are the ones that caught our eye:
- Empress Josephine’s diadem, presented by her brother-in-law, King of Naples.
- The Grand Salon with wood moldings, antique furniture, marble columns and tall windows.
- Since 1937, the Reading Room has housed the Spitalieri de Cessole family library, built up over several generations and now owned by the City of Nice.
Our full article on the Musée Masséna will be available soon.
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
6:30pm-7:30pm: drinks at Valentin’s L’oiseau d’été in the Carré d’Or
To round off your stay, head for L’oiseau d’été de Valentin, once again in the heart of the city. This bar, which also serves as a crêperie and tea room, offers homemade Corsican products on its small, friendly terrace with white wrought-iron furniture and cosy interior. So are you ready to pack your bags?
Coming soon, our full review of Valentin’s L’oiseau d’été tearoom-creperie.
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.
Option 3 – 1 day in Nice with a young child
Planning a day trip to Nice with your children? Don’t panic, here are our suggested activities for young and old to enjoy!
10am-11am: Natural History Museum
This museum houses over 1 million specimens of zoology, botany and geology. If you’re strolling near the Coulée Verte, make sure you stop off at this place dedicated to lovers of Mediterranean coastal species. The site is well documented and suitable for young and old alike. Access to this museum is included in the Museum Pass.
Coming soon, our full article on Nice’s Natural History Museum.
11am-12pm: a fun workshop at the MAMAC Museum
The MAMAC Museum offers fun workshops for children aged 5 and over. Visiting this museum can be an enriching and entertaining experience to stimulate children’s curiosity and artistic sensitivity.
Various resources are adapted by age to make the visit more accessible and fun. Age-appropriate educational booklets are available on each floor just before entering the room.
These booklets offer activities, games and information specially designed to help children better understand the museum’s collections. On Wednesdays, the museum offers “Môm’Arts des mercredis” workshops, an interactive and educational approach to discovering works of art in a fun way. Don’t hesitate to ask for more information at reception before starting your tour, or visit the official website to find out more about workshops and booklets for children.
12:30-2pm: lunch at a kid-friendly restaurant in Nice
Eating well on vacation is a must, especially with children! We’ve come up with a few practical, kid-friendly addresses in the Côte d’Azur capital:
- La Pairolière restaurant: spacious and family-friendly, with a terrace overlooking the Tour Saint-François, the former bell tower of the Franciscan church and convent in the heart of Nice’s historic center.
- La Storia restaurant and its local specialities: come and taste the art of living à la niçoise: pissaladière, daube niçoise, homemade gnocchi and artichoke pie fresh from the market. The team at La Storia is not only welcoming, but will also add color to your plates!
Our selection of the 20 best restaurants to eat out in Nice.
2:30 – 3:30 pm: tour of Nice on the Little Tourist Train
Looking for a different way to visit Nice? Comfortably seated in a small electric train that circles the city, come and discover this rather pleasant route that will delight young and old alike, departing from the Promenade des Anglais. You can choose between 2 tours, with commentary and audio guides in 8 languages. Access to Nice ‘s Little Tourist Train is included with the French Riviera Pass.
16h-17h: Promenade du Paillon and Belle Époque merry-go-round ride
Who said rides were just for kids? Young and old alike will love this magnificent Belle Epoque carousel from the 1900s on the Promenade du Paillon.
You won’t want to miss it, with its lights and beautiful illustrations set among fruit trees!
Then stroll along the Promenade du Paillon, a veritable green lung where numerous plant species coexist to offer you a botanical journey right through the heart of Nice.
5-6pm: a snack at Marinette’s in Vieux Nice
Snacking, a meal like any other. For young and old alike, this is an important and eagerly awaited moment, especially during the vacations. It’s not always easy to find a pleasant, child-friendly place in a tourist city. We’ve unearthed a nugget: Marinette in Vieux Nice. With its white parasols and water-green wicker chairs, this is sure to become your favorite spot in the old town. We’re crazy about his pastries, which are as tasty as they are aesthetically pleasing.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO provence
Our articles are coming!
- Most beautiful cities in Provence (coming soon)
- Most beautiful beaches of Provence (coming soon)
- Most beautiful villages of Provence (to come)
- Most beautiful destinations in Provence (coming soon)
Option 4 – 1 day in Nice for architecture lovers
A word of warning to architecture fans passing through the Côte d’Azur capital! Belle Époque architecture, Italian influence, art deco buildings, you’re in for a treat. En route to discover the beauty of Nice’s avenues and buildings.
9h-9h30: cross Place Garibaldi
This square of yellow buildings, close to Vieux Nice, is a fine example of Nices Franco-Italian heritage. Place Garibaldi, built in the 18th century, pays homage to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Nice Italian general and republican who led the unification of Italy in the 19th century. In the center, you can see the stone statue of him with the ancient senate behind it. Today it’s one of the city’s central squares, where you’ll feel a warm, lively atmosphere.
9:30-10:15: enjoy a panoramic view or simply admire the Tour Saint-François
Just a 5-minute walk from the MAMAC Museum, the Tour Saint-François rises 288 steps (yes, you read that right!). This is one of Nice ‘s highlights, revealing the city’s Italian influence. Built in the 13th century as a bell tower for the Franciscan convent, it is famous for its bell tower and clock.
For the more courageous, you’ll have to climb almost 300 steps to reach the top, but the view is well worth the detour. And that massive bell above the tower is simply stunning!
Coming soon, our article dedicated to the Tour Saint-François in Nice.
10:30-11am: Palais des ducs de Savoie, Nice (Préfecture des Alpes-Maritimes)
Another example of the Italian influence in Nice’s architecture is the Palais préfectoral, Palais des Ducs de Savoie or Palais des Rois Sardes. Located in the old town near the Cour Saleya, it was built in the 17th century as a royal residence. When Nice became French in 1860, this sumptuous building became the Palais préfectoral. In the early 19th century, Nice architect Richard Scoffier redesigned the façade and rebuilt the entrance hall and grand staircase. You can visit this building during the Heritage Days. It was closed to the public during our stay.
11am-12.30pm: admire Belle Époque architecture in Nice
Belle Époque architecture in Nice is a legacy of the late 19th century. At the time, Nice was expanding rapidly to become a popular tourist destination for Europe’s aristocracy and bourgeoisie. An architectural development movement ensued, to the delight of our eyes!
- On the Promenade des Anglais, an emblematic stroll along the Baie des Anges since the early 19th century. From Nice Côte d’Azur airport to Quai des États-Unis, this promenade stretches 7km along Nice’s Mediterranean coast, lined with palm trees and Belle Époque buildings.
- The Nice Opera House, rebuilt in 1885 by Nice architect François Aune, a pupil of Gustave Eiffel. Prior to its reconstruction, the plans for the new Nice Opera House were approved by the famous architect Charles Garnier. It’s a true masterpiece of Belle Époque architecture.
- The Place Masséna and the Fontaine du Soleil with its statue of Apollo, with their vermilion-red buildings adorned with moldings and topped with turrets, enhance the architecture of this district.
- The 5-star Anantara Hotel, in a Belle Époque building facing the Promenade du Paillon and 2 steps from Place Masséna where the Fontaine du Soleil stands, this establishment inaugurated in 1848 seduced us with the quality of its welcome, its attention to detail and the care given to its guests. see photos and availability.
1pm-2:30pm: lunch in the Carré d’Or district
In the Carré d’Or district, we’ve spotted a number of good addresses in more or less different styles, so you can choose to suit your mood! 2 of our suggested addresses are located in the Palace Le Negresco, a marvel of Belle Époque architecture known for its fabulous collection of 6,000 works of art. Here is our selection:
- La Rotonde, restaurant at the 5-star Le Negresco hotel: gourmet dining and inventive cuisine under a moving ceiling depicting a starry night and azure sky.
- Le Chantecler, Michelin-starred restaurant in the 5-star Le Negresco hotel: light, sincere cuisine, between tradition and modernity, in an almost fairytale setting.
- Sweet Sisters restaurant: healthy, tasty food on the go is the promise of this colorful, welcoming establishment.
Read our article on the 20 best restaurants in Nice.
3pm-4pm: Saint-Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Nice
The jewel of the Cimiez district on Avenue Nicolas II, this is one of the largest buildings erected outside the Russian Orthodox world. It absolutely must be on your list! Its Belle Époque style, colors and stained glass windows make it one of France’s most beautiful Russian churches, classified as a historic monument. We were truly transported by so much beauty and exoticism in the middle of Nice.
Walking along Nicholas II Avenue, you’ll immediately recognize the emerald-colored, gold-capped bulbs atop this fairytale cathedral. We were fascinated by the details of traditional Russian architecture: moldings, friezes, stained glass windows, motifs, colors both inside and out. Once inside, you’ll see the iconostasis, a partition decorated with icons, which separates the nave from the sanctuary, characteristic of cathedrals in Russia.
Behind this sublime cathedral, a beautiful green garden dominated by a marble bust of the Grand Duke Nicolas Alexandrovitch of Russia, also known as the Tsarevitch, who died in Nice in 1865. This imposing building is listed as a historic monument.
Coming soon, our full article on Saint-Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Nice.
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm: Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc Church
Visiting the Cimiez-Libération district a little further uptown in Nice, we came across the Church of Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc and its atypical architecture. Built by architect Jacques Droz in the 1930s, its style is more or less futuristic, in reinforced concrete with several egg-shaped white domes. This Catholic church is dedicated to Joan of Arc, a 15th-century historical figure.
Inside, we discovered several statues, paintings and frescoes in a more modern and original style than we’re used to seeing in religious buildings. A must in our opinion!
But the exterior is already quite surprising, with all its geometric shapes. A real curiosity, as atypical in its architecture as in its interior design and layout. Frescoes, icons and statues reflect the influence of Art Nouveau in this impressive building.
Our article dedicated to the Church of Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc in Nice will soon be available.
6pm-7pm: Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Basilica
Built in the 2nd half of the 19th century and located in the Jean Médecin shopping district, it is the largest religious building in Nice. The neo-Gothic Basilica Notre-Dame de l’Assomption is also famous for its colorful stained glass windows. Look up to admire the nave and vaulted ceiling inside, as well as the two towers with their sumptuous architectural details, over 30m high.
Our article on the Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption in Nice will soon be available.
7-8pm: drinks at L’oiseau d’été de Valentin
To round off a day rich in beautiful images, Valentin’s L’oiseau d’été is back in the heart of the city. This bar, which also serves as a crêperie and tea room, offers homemade Corsican products on its small, friendly terrace with white wrought-iron furniture and cosy interior. So are you ready to pack your bags?
Option 5 – 1 day of free activities in Nice
Nice is a city with a lot to offer, and don’t be fooled, there are plenty of activities you can do for free in this iconic French Riviera city! Here’s a suggestion for a free tour of the Côte d’Azur capital. Have fun!
9-10am: bucolic stroll through Nice’s Botanical Gardens
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!
Coming soon, our full article on the Nice Botanical Gardens.
10:30am-12pm: visit Nice’s Asian Arts Museum
A real curiosity in the Arenas district, we set off to discover the Museum of Asian Arts in the Côte d’Azur capital. First and foremost, the building is a work of art in itself. Designed by the Japanese architect Kenzo Tange in raw concrete surrounded by water, whose style is influenced by the Swiss urban architect Le Corbusier, it is quite original in relation to the architectural style of the area.
We also really appreciated the museography, which showcases the works in sober, uncluttered rooms. Sculptures, paintings, chests, headdresses, traditional costumes, masks… We found these collections quite simply magnificent. Admire this gold-leaf Japanese screen, for example, which bears witness to the exceptional craftsmanship of the Land of the Rising Sun. More information on the official website.
Our article dedicated to the Musée des arts asiatiques de Nice will soon be available.
12:30-14:00: lunch downtown at La Storia restaurant
There are several options for lunch in Nice s city center. For an affordable, flavorful meal, we suggest La Storia restaurant on the Cour Saleya, 2 steps from Vieux Nice. Local cuisine, a warm welcome and a lovely terrace – what more could you ask for?
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm: discover the Church of Saint Rita
Patron saint of lost and desperate causes, Saint Rita lived in the 14th century. We were charmed by the calm and serenity of this church in Vieux Nice, also known as Église de l’Annonciation. The facade of the monument is rather sober, while the interior is adorned with several paintings and moldings, which we took the time to discover. Take the Saint Erasmus chapel below, for example: 2 canvases cover the walls, surrounded by marble columns with carved ends.
16h-17h30: nature break in the Mont Boron and Fort Alban Park
Built during the Renaissance, the Fort du Mont Alban is quite spectacular! We felt very small in front of this imposing stone building that has stood the test of time. This fort dominates the entire Côte d’Azur. The panorama from the monument’s terrace really dazzled us. Just 2 steps from the Mont Boron hill, surrounded by a charming forest, you’ll find a picnic area near the fort for a gourmet break or simply to relax during the walk.
6pm-7pm: Passage through Port Lympia
The Port Lympia district is one of Nice ‘s liveliest spots, with its marina and numerous restaurants. Here you can admire the magnificent yachts and sailing boats docked in the port. Take a deep breath to fill your lungs with sea air and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean. In fact, if you pass through the Parc de la Colline du Château mentioned earlier, you’ll have a view of Port Lympia.
Finally, are you planning to stay a few days longer? We’ve put together several itineraries for you to visit Nice in 2 or 3 days! Have a great vacation!
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.
Other ways to discover Nice: guided tours
Visiting the Nice area
Nice is also a great starting point for day or half-day excursions in the surrounding area. We’ve selected a few places to discover on the French Riviera. If you don’t want to drive, you can book a private tour. Take your pick:
- Travel back in time to the 16th century to discover beautiful Antibes and its Fort Carré, then head inland – see photos, details and availability.
- Stroll along the Croisette, visit the Palais des Festivals or the Old Port? Opt for a day trip to Cannes and continue on to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a charming village in the Alpes Maritimes, see photos, details and availability.
- Spend a day in the charming village of Èze, then take a break in Monaco and Monte-Carlo, 2 other wonders of the Riviera – see photos, details and availability.
Want to discover other excursions in and around Nice? It’s over here!
Original tricks
Perfumery know-how
Looking for a change from the daily grind of sightseeing? Try your hand at perfume-making, one of the Provençal region‘s specialties. From a 2-hour workshop to a full-day event, this highly original occupation is sure to leave a lasting impression – see photos, details and availability.
A cycling tour of Nice ‘s 7 hills
Discovering Nice by bike is another option to consider. The municipality has laid out numerous cycle paths and the mild climate is pleasant for cyclists. Pedal through the famous Cimiez district with a local guide who will reveal the secrets of this hill and its history. From Antiquity to the Belle Époque period to the present day, let yourself be transported on your 2 wheels by the magic of the hills of Nice – see photos, details and availability.
Lavender, the emblem of Provence
Explore the Gorges du Verdon, its cliffs and transparent waters, then stroll through the lavender fields. A magical experience – see photos, details and availability.
All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Myriam.
