NICE
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is the ultimate blend of Mediterranean glamour and historic artistry. It pairs Nice’s vibrant markets and architecture with the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
This region is a magnet for the world’s elite, yet it remains profoundly authentic. It is a land of iconic sights, from the glittering beaches of Cannes to the medieval perched villages high above the sea.
Most Popular Attractions
Nice City Core & Seafront
Promenade des Anglais: The legendary 7-kilometer beachfront walkway, perfect for strolling, cycling, or soaking up the sun.
Vieux Nice (Old Town): A maze of narrow, winding streets, colorful Baroque buildings, and lively squares like Place Rossetti.
Cours Saleya Market: Nice’s famous market square, bustling with fresh produce, flowers, and local goods (especially the renowned flower market).
Colline du Château (Castle Hill): Offers the best panoramic views of Nice, the harbor, and the Promenade des Anglais, plus a beautiful waterfall.
Musée Matisse: A museum dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa in the Cimiez neighborhood.
Musée Marc Chagall: Home to the largest public collection of Chagall’s works, especially his magnificent Biblical Message series.
Place Masséna: Nice’s main public square, famous for its red-ochre buildings, striking checkerboard pavement, and the Fountain of the Sun.
Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate): A magnificent Baroque cathedral located in the heart of the Old Town.
Coastal Towns & Glamour
Monaco-Ville (The Rock): The historic heart of the Principality of Monaco, home to the Prince’s Palace and the Oceanographic Museum.
Monte-Carlo Casino: The world-famous casino in Monaco, a Belle Époque architectural masterpiece and a symbol of luxury.
Cannes’ La Croisette: The iconic boulevard in Cannes, lined with luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and the Palais des Festivals.
Antibes & Cap d’Antibes: A beautiful walled town with a fantastic harbor and the Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi.
St-Tropez: The legendary fishing village turned glamorous resort, known for its beaches and yachting scene.
Villefranche-sur-Mer: A stunning, deep-water bay and colorful old town popular for its quiet charm and historic citadel.
Perched Villages & Art
Eze Village: A spectacular medieval village perched high on a cliff, featuring a stunning Exotic Garden on the ruins of its former castle.
St-Paul de Vence: One of Provence’s most beautiful and famous walled villages, renowned for its art galleries and the Fondation Maeght modern art museum.
Grasse: The world capital of perfume, offering factory tours and museum visits dedicated to the art of scent.
Menton: Known as the “Pearl of France,” famous for its beautiful Old Town, Baroque basilica, and citrus fruit gardens.
Vence: A serene town known for its historic core and the Chapel of the Rosary, decorated entirely by Henri Matisse.
Tourrettes-sur-Loup: A charming medieval village known for its cultivation of violets and artisan shops.
Peillon: An incredibly dramatic and remote perched village built directly into the rock face, offering an authentic escape.
Gourdon: A fortified “eagle’s nest” village on the edge of a plateau, offering breathtaking views of the Gorges du Loup.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice) Market: Wander through the Cours Saleya Market, open every morning. It’s a riot of color, famous for its flower market, local produce, and the delicious (a chickpea flatbread).
Hike the Coastal Path to Villefranche-sur-Mer: Walk from Nice harbor along the scenic coastal path (Sentier du Littoral) to the beautiful bay and citadel of Villefranche-sur-Mer. The views are spectacular.
Visit a Perfumery in Grasse: Take a trip to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world. Tour a historic factory like Fragonard, Molinard, or Galimard to learn about the distillation process and even create your own scent.
Walk the Promenade des Anglais: Rent a “Vélo Bleu” (public bike) or stroll along Nice’s iconic palm-lined waterfront. It’s the perfect place for people-watching, a morning run, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.
Discover the Artistic Side of Nice: Visit the Musée Matisse and the Musée Marc Chagall to immerse yourself in the works of two masters who made the Côte d’Azur their home.
Take a Day Trip to Monaco: Hop on a scenic train or bus to the glamorous Principality of Monaco. Explore the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, and the famous Casino in Monte-Carlo.
Hike to the Mont Boron Viewpoint: Climb the hill east of Nice for a stunning panoramic view over the city, the Baie des Anges, and the surrounding coastline. It’s a great spot for a sunset picnic.
Go Wine Tasting in Bellet: Explore the small, prestigious Bellet vineyards located right in the hills above Nice. This is one of France’s smallest and oldest appellations, producing excellent white, red, and rosé wines.
Explore the Medieval Village of Eze: Visit this breathtakingly perched village with its exotic garden () built on the ruins of an old fortress. The views from the top are arguably the best on the Riviera.
Take a Boat Trip to the Lérins Islands: From Cannes, take a ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite or Île Saint-Honorat. The latter is home to Cistercian monks who produce their own wine and liqueur.
Try Your Luck at a Casino in Cannes: Experience the legendary glamour of the French Riviera in Cannes. Walk the famous Bouis de la Croisette and try your hand at the tables in one of the city’s many casinos.
Local Tips & Transport
The Tram is Excellent in Nice: Nice has a modern and efficient tram network (Lignes 1, 2, and 3) that is the backbone of the city’s public transport. The Ligne 2 is particularly useful, connecting the airport (Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur) directly to the city center and port. Tickets are affordable and interchangeable between buses and trams.
Buses for Coastal Towns: The Lignes d’Azur bus network is the most affordable and scenic way to travel between the towns of the Riviera. Bus 100 (Nice to Monaco/Menton) and Bus 607 (Nice to Villefranche/Beaulieu/Eze) are famous for their stunning coastal views, making them a tourist attraction in themselves.
The TER Train: The regional train service () runs frequently along the coast, connecting all the major towns—Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Monaco, and Menton. It is often the fastest way to get between cities, especially during summer traffic.
Airport Transfer: The Tram Ligne 2 is the best value and easiest way to get from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) to the city center. It takes about 30 minutes and is far cheaper than a taxi.
Top Restaurants
Chez René Socca [$5-$15] – A legendary street-food stall in the Old Town, famous for its authentic socca (chickpea pancake) and other Niçois specialties like pissaladière and beignets.
Lou Pilha Leva [$10-$20] – A simple, old-school place in the Old Town for traditional Niçois quick bites like socca and farcis (stuffed vegetables), popular with locals.
La Table Alziari [$20-$35] – A small, authentic restaurant that has been serving traditional Niçois and Mediterranean cuisine for decades, known for its warm welcome and regional specialties.
Acchiardo [$20-$35] – A quintessential, family-run bistro in the Old Town, offering generous portions of traditional French and Niçois dishes in a lively, classic atmosphere.
La Rossettisserie [$20-$35] – Located near the cathedral, this cozy spot is a must-visit for meat lovers, specializing in slow-roasted meats served with simple, delicious sides. Reservations are essential.
Lou Kalu [$20-$35] – A local favorite near Cours Saleya, this restaurant offers a selection of authentic Niçois delicacies and a genuine taste of the region’s cuisine.
Bar des Oiseaux [$20-$35] – Housed in a former theater in the Old Town, this lively spot is known for its fresh, seasonal menu, often featuring excellent fresh pasta and creative daily specials.
Le Barbecue [$20-$35] – A simple, no-frills spot focusing on quality grilled meats cooked over a wood fire, popular with locals for its authentic flavors and good value.
Le Panier [$25-$40] – A charming bistro tucked away in the Old Town offering a modern take on traditional bistronomy with creative dishes and a welcoming ambiance.
La Storia [$25-$40] – A bustling restaurant on Cours Saleya offering classic Niçois specialties like daube niçoise and pissaladière in a vibrant setting, popular for a taste of local favorites.
Comptoir du Marché [$30-$50] – A tiny, high-quality bistro near the market, serving simple yet refined French cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Reservations are crucial.
Le Bistrot d’Antoine [$30-$50] – A very popular bistronomic restaurant in the Old Town offering creative and gourmet French dishes at reasonable prices in a bustling setting. Must book well in advance.
Peixes [$30-$50] – A modern seafood restaurant with a focus on fresh catches, combining Mediterranean and South American flavors in creative, contemporary dishes.
Lavomatique [$35-$55] – A small, cozy bistronomic spot in the Old Town offering inventive, high-quality cuisine with a focus on fresh, local produce and natural wines.
Le Plongeoir [$50-$80] – An iconic restaurant offering a unique dining experience perched on a rock above the sea, known for its stunning views and refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Bocca Nissa [$30-$50] – A trendy, vibrant spot known for its Mediterranean tapas-style sharing concept, perfect for exploring a variety of flavors with a modern twist.
Les Épicuriens [$40-$70] – Located in the Jean Médecin district, this restaurant offers fine seasonal French cuisine that is both gourmet and refined.
Flaveur [$80-$130] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Nice that offers highly creative and personal cuisine, blending Mediterranean and global influences in an elegant setting.
Restaurant JAN [$120-$200] – A one-Michelin-starred restaurant by South African chef Jan Hendrik, offering a unique, inventive fine dining experience that is both intimate and luxurious.
Le Chantecler [$150-$250] – The two-Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant of the legendary Negresco Hotel, offering exquisite, contemporary French cuisine in an opulent 18th-century décor.
Château de La Chèvre d’Or (L’Orangerie or main Restaurant) [$+200] – Located in Eze-Village, the main restaurant holds two Michelin stars and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, focusing on refined Provençal and Mediterranean cuisine.
La Table de Pierre [$90-$150] – Located in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this gastronomic restaurant offers creative cuisine focusing on local and seasonal Provençal flavors, with an emphasis on fresh taste.
Hôtel Restaurant Alain Llorca [$90-$150] – Located just outside Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers light, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine and spectacular views from its terrace.
Le Café de Turin [$30-$60] – An institution in Nice since 1908, famous for its bountiful, fresh seafood platters and chic, classic brasserie atmosphere. A must for oyster and shellfish lovers.
Oliviera [$25-$45] – A unique spot in the Old Town that revolves around olive oil. The menu features simple, delicious dishes (pasta, vegetables) that are paired with different high-quality olive oils from their own production.
La Colombe d’Or [$80-$150] – Located in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this legendary restaurant is famous for its collection of original artwork by masters like Picasso and Miró, and its classic Provençal cuisine. An unmissable cultural and culinary experience.
Le Saint Paul Restaurant [$60-$100] – Situated in the walled village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this restaurant offers a beautiful setting and classic Mediterranean cuisine.
L’Ambroisy [$50-$80] – Located in Vence, this restaurant has a reputation for high-quality, authentic French cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
Mirazur [$500-$1,000] – While technically in Menton (a train ride from Nice), this three-Michelin-starred, world-renowned restaurant by chef Mauro Colagreco is a temple to sustainable, boundary-pushing cuisine based on the sea, the garden, and the mountain.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Le Plongeoir (Nice): A globally famous, unique spot perched on a rocky outcrop just off the Nice coast. It offers a spectacular sea view and is an incredible setting for sunset cocktails.
Zitto Speakeasy (Nice): A sophisticated, hidden bar tucked inside the Gigi Tavola Restaurant near the Port. Finding the discreet entrance is part of the fun, and the reward is a refined atmosphere and perfectly crafted, original cocktails.
Les Bars du Negresco (Nice): Located within the iconic Hôtel Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais, this bar offers a luxurious, sophisticated setting with opulent Belle Epoque décor, ideal for enjoying classic champagne cocktails.
Delano Cocktailbar (Nice): Found near the Promenade du Paillon, this elegant and intimate Art Deco bar, located inside the Hotel Roosevelt, specializes in innovative signature cocktails and refined Japanese-inspired snacks.
Le Bateleur (Nice): A sophisticated bar located in the heart of the Old Town, offering a warm, friendly atmosphere and a diverse drink menu in a charming setting.
Movida (Nice): A trendy spot on the Quai des États-Unis with two terraces overlooking the Promenade des Anglais, making it a great place for creative cocktails and sunset drinks with a vibrant atmosphere.
Boston Bar (Nice): A trendy cocktail bar at the Port of Nice with a retro atmosphere and great patio seating overlooking the harbor. Known for its meticulously prepared cocktails.
Barbacane Bar (Nice): A very atmospheric bar within walking distance of the Cours Saleya market, known for its excellent cocktails, including classics like the Negroni, and its cozy ambiance.
La Havane (Nice): A night-time tribute to Latin America and Cuba, this spot in the Old Town area is known for its live Latino music, tropical décor, and extensive rum-based cocktail selection.
Puzzle Bar (Nice): A wonderful, small bar located centrally, offering excellent gin and curated cocktails in a cute, friendly atmosphere.
Rooftop Monsigny (Nice): A scenic rooftop bar and restaurant north of Nice’s Old Town, featuring an elegant deck with sweeping views of the sea and city, perfect for an evening drink.
Saint Nicolas Bar (Nice): Located in the vibrant Port district, this stylish venue offers a vintage setting for expert mixology and tasty tapas, often featuring live music or DJ sets.
Le Nola (Nice): Nestled in the lively Rue Bonaparte near Place Garibaldi, this bar channels the spirit of New Orleans with live jazz, retro decor, and Louisiana-style cocktails.
Comptoir Central Électrique (Nice): A local and tourist hot spot in the city center known for its intimate and homey indoor ambiance and excellent cocktail selection, with weekend entertainment including live DJ performances.
Ceto (Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, near Nice): The bar at this Michelin-starred restaurant in the Maybourne Riviera hotel offers one of the most incredible views on the French Riviera, ideal for a luxurious cocktail outside of Nice.
High Club (Nice): The largest and one of the most popular nightclubs in Nice, located on the Promenade des Anglais. It features state-of-the-art sound, impressive lighting, multiple dance floors, and hosts renowned EDM, house, and commercial DJs.
Le Glam (Nice): A vibrant and stylish nightclub in the heart of Nice, known for its inclusive, friendly atmosphere. It’s popular with the LGBTQ+ community but welcoming to all, featuring diverse music like electro, disco house, and pop.
Wayne’s Bar (Nice): Located in the Old Town, this lively spot functions as a pub early on and transforms into a high-energy party venue with live music most nights, often seeing people dancing on the tables to rock and popular tunes.
Master Home (Nice): A popular pub in Old Town, situated near the Place du Palais de Justice, that offers a pub atmosphere during the day and turns into a lively late-night spot and discotheque.
Le Six Club (Nice): Located in the heart of Nice, this lively, stylish nightclub has a retro-chic ambiance and is known for its themed parties and a mix of music ranging from classic throwbacks to contemporary hits.
Le Les Marches Club (Nice): A stylish and exclusive nightclub near the port, attracting a fashionable crowd with top DJs playing house, electronic, and hip-hop beats in a glamorous setting with VIP areas.
Waka Bar (Nice): A popular beachside hangout on the Quai des États-Unis. It has a relaxed vibe during the day but pumps up the energy at night with local DJs playing House and EDM, making it a lively party spot overlooking the Mediterranean.
Bulldog Pub Pompei (Nice): Located in the Old Town, this is one of the oldest nightclubs in Nice, dedicated to Rock’N’Roll with live rock concerts every night and a dedicated rock-themed décor.
Opéra Club Nice (Nice): Nestled in the Old Town, this is a must-see nightclub open until the early morning, offering a varied program of DJs and parties from Tuesday to Sunday.
Le Cave de la Tour (Nice): While primarily a local, friendly wine bar in the city center, it is a perfect spot to start a night out, offering a deep-rooted Nice atmosphere before hitting the main clubs.
Les Caves du Roy (Saint-Tropez, near Nice): One of the French Riviera’s most iconic and opulent nightclubs, located in Saint-Tropez. It attracts celebrities and jetsetters with its extravagant decor, world-class DJs, and exclusive VIP experience for those willing to venture outside Nice for ultimate luxury nightlife.