Nice

Nice Travel Guide

The jewel of the Cote d'Azur on the Mediterranean, famous for its azure waters and beautiful seaside promenade. The narrow lanes of Vieux Nice are filled with Provencal cafes and artist studios, and this is the city of light that Matisse and Chagall adored. Ideal for travelers who want both relaxing beach time and artistic inspiration, it is also a great base for day trips to Monaco and Cannes.

Essential Nice Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Nice

★ 4.6

Promenade des Anglais

Stretching about 7 km along the Nice waterfront, the Promenade des Anglais is one of the world's most celebrated seaside walks. It was laid out in the 19th century when British aristocrats wintered here, which is how it got the name 'Walk of the English'. Palm trees frame views of the cobalt-blue Mediterranean, and it's perfect for strolls, runs, or cycling. The signature experience is settling into one of Nice's famous blue chairs to watch the sunset over the sea. Free to visit. 5-minute walk from Tram Line 1 Masséna stop.

HoursOpen 24 hours (beach facilities vary by season)

LocationPromenade des Anglais, Nice

TipsVisit at sunset to watch the sun drop into the Mediterranean. Beaches get very crowded in summer, so an early morning walk is ideal.

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★ 4.5

Vieux Nice (Old Town)

Vieux Nice blends Italian and French culture in a tangle of narrow lanes lined with orange and yellow buildings. The flower and food market on Cours Saleya bursts to life every morning with fresh Mediterranean produce. Baroque churches and small galleries tuck into side streets, alongside charming cafes and independent shops. A climb up Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau) rewards you with a sweeping view over the whole city. Free to explore (Castle Hill elevator is free). 3-minute walk from Tram 1 Opéra-Vieille Ville stop.

HoursAlways open (market Tue-Sun 06:00-13:30)

LocationVieux Nice, Nice

TipsThe Cours Saleya market becomes an antiques flea market on Mondays. Try Nice's signature socca from a street stall while you're here.

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★ 4.4

Matisse Museum

Henri Matisse lived and worked in Nice from 1917 until his death in 1954, and this museum holds a comprehensive collection spanning his career. Set in a 17th-century Genoese villa, it displays key works from early still lifes to the late paper cut-outs. Being here lets you feel firsthand how Nice's warm light shaped Matisse's palette — a unique experience. Free admission. 5-minute walk from bus stops 15, 17, or 20 at Arènes.

Hours10:00-18:00 (until 17:00 November-April; closed Tuesdays).

LocationCimiez, Nice

TipsFree entry, so stop by without hesitation. Combine it with the nearby Cimiez Monastery and Roman ruins.

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★ 4.7

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

A 92-meter hill between Vieux Nice and the harbour, once the site of an 11th-12th century medieval castle. The fortress was destroyed in 1706 by order of Louis XIV, and today the area is a sprawling park with an artificial waterfall and a children's playground. From the summit you'll get the best view in Nice — the Baie des Anges, the orange rooftops of the old town, and the blue Mediterranean stretching to the horizon. It's about a 15-minute walk to the top, or take the free elevator/funicular. Free entry. 5-minute walk from Cathédrale-Vieille Ville tram stop (Line 1) to the elevator.

Hours08:30-20:00 (closing varies 19:30-21:00 by season)

LocationVieux Nice, Nice

TipsTake the free elevator to skip the steep steps. Sunset bathes the entire bay in golden light — a magical time to visit.

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★ 4.6

Cours Saleya Market

A 200-meter square running through the heart of Vieux Nice that hosts one of Provence's best open-air markets every morning. Tuesday through Sunday it overflows with flowers, fresh produce, spices, olives, cheeses, honey, and lavender products in a feast for the senses; on Mondays it transforms into an antiques flea market. By afternoon, terrace cafes and restaurants take over the square, serving Mediterranean specialties like salade niçoise and bouillabaisse. The yellow building where Matisse once lived overlooks the square. Free to visit. 3-minute walk from Opéra-Vieille Ville tram stop (Line 1).

HoursTue-Sun 06:00-13:30 (Mondays antiques market 08:00-18:00)

LocationCours Saleya, Vieux Nice

TipsMornings are when the market is alive — and free tastings of olives and fruit are plentiful. Mondays bring a completely different antiques-market vibe.

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★ 4.6

Musée National Marc Chagall

Opened in 1973 with Marc Chagall's own involvement in its design, this museum centers on the 17 monumental oil paintings of the 'Biblical Message' (Le Message Biblique) series Chagall created between 1956 and 1966. Based on Genesis, Exodus, and the Song of Songs, these late masterpieces fuse his signature vivid color with poetic imagination. Naturally lit galleries open onto a mosaic-filled garden and a music hall adorned with stained glass. Admission about EUR 10 (free under 18). 1-minute walk from Musée Chagall bus stop (lines 5/22).

Hours10:00-18:00 (until 17:00 November-April; closed Tuesdays)

LocationCimiez, Nice

TipsEasy to combine with the Matisse Museum. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

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★ 4.7

Èze Village (Day Trip)

About 12km east of Nice and 429m above sea level, Èze is a medieval village perched on a cliff with arguably the finest views on the Côte d'Azur. Narrow stone alleys, a 14th-century church, and artisan boutiques pack the tiny village, and the Jardin Exotique at the summit reveals a Mediterranean panorama all the way to Monaco. The cliff path Friedrich Nietzsche walked while writing 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra' — Le Chemin de Nietzsche — descends from the village. Village free; Exotic Garden about EUR 7. From Nice, take bus 82 or 112 (about 30 minutes).

HoursVillage open 24 hours (Exotic Garden 09:00-18:00)

LocationÈze, Alpes-Maritimes

TipsHike about 1 hour down the Nietzsche Path to Èze-sur-Mer beach — wear comfortable shoes. The Fragonard and Galimard perfumeries are worth a visit.

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★ 4.6

Monaco Day Trip

Just 22km east of Nice, Monaco is a 2km² city-state and constitutional monarchy ruled by the Grimaldi family — made world-famous by Princess Grace Kelly. Despite its tiny size, attractions are packed in: the Monte-Carlo Casino, the Prince's Palace (changing of the guard at 11:55), the Oceanographic Museum, and the hairpin corner of the F1 Monaco Grand Prix circuit. Superyachts in the harbour and luxury boutiques on every corner create a scene you won't see anywhere else. Free to enter the country (Casino about EUR 17, Palace about EUR 10). From Nice Ville station, 25 minutes by train or about 50 minutes on bus 100.

HoursCity open 24 hours (palace and museums keep their own hours)

LocationMonaco

TipsTrain is the easiest option — no passport needed, but bring ID. The Monaco Grand Prix runs in late May, when hotel prices skyrocket.

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★ 4.6

Promenade du Paillon

Opened in 2013 on the site of former car parks and a bus station over the Paillon River, this linear urban park stretches about 1.2km from Place Masséna toward the MAMAC contemporary art museum. Lawns, fountains, playgrounds, and a bamboo garden line the route, and the shallow 'Miroir d'eau' water-mirror fountain is a summer favorite with children. Beautifully lit at night. Free and always open. 2-minute walk from Tram 1 Masséna or Garibaldi stops.

HoursOpen 24 hours

LocationCentre Ville, Nice

TipsOn hot summer days, families gather at the Miroir d'eau fountain for a splash. Bike and scooter rental docks are scattered along the route, handy for a longer stroll.

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★ 4.5

Place Masséna

Named after Napoleonic general André Masséna, this central square is defined by Italian-style ochre-red buildings and a black-and-white checkerboard marble floor. Seven illuminated statue columns representing the Kingdom of Sardinia line the square, glowing with colored light after dark. It also serves as the main stage for the Nice Carnival and other festivals. Free and always open. Right in front of Tram 1's Masséna stop.

HoursOpen 24 hours

LocationCentre Ville, Nice

TipsVisit at night to see the illuminated statue columns light up. It's a 5-minute walk from the square to the Promenade des Anglais.

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★ 4.4

Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate (Nice Cathedral)

Built between 1650 and 1699 as the seat of the Diocese of Nice, this cathedral is dedicated to Saint Reparata, the city's patron saint. Its ornate Italian Baroque facade and green-and-yellow tiled dome stand out, while the interior is rich with marble sculpture and gilded decoration. It sits on Place Rossetti in the old town, surrounded by cafes and gelato shops. Free admission. 5-minute walk from Tram 1 Opéra-Vieille Ville stop.

HoursMon-Sat 09:00-18:00, Sun 14:00-18:00 (except during Mass)

LocationVieux Nice, Nice

TipsPlace Rossetti in front of the cathedral is home to one of Nice's most famous gelato shops — worth a stop.

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★ 4.6

Saint Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral, Nice

Completed in 1912 with the patronage of the Russian imperial family, this is the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside Russia. Backed by Tsar Nicholas II, it was built in a Moscow-Yaroslavl style with six ornate onion domes and vividly tiled decoration. Inside, gilded iconostases and Orthodox icons fill the space. It reflects Nice's history as a favored winter retreat for 19th-century Russian aristocracy. Admission about EUR 6-7. 10-minute walk from Tram 1 Alsace-Lorraine stop.

Hours09:15-12:00 and 14:30-18:00 (closed Mondays, except during services)

LocationQuartier des Musiciens, Nice

TipsModest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected. Photography inside may be restricted.

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★ 4.4

MAMAC (Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain de Nice)

Opened in 1990, MAMAC occupies four marble-clad tower buildings. Its collection centers on Nouveau Réalisme artists tied to Nice and the south of France — Yves Klein, Arman, Niki de Saint Phalle — alongside a broad survey of American and European contemporary art since the 1960s. The rooftop terrace offers views over the old town and Castle Hill. Permanent collection free to visit. 3-minute walk from Tram 1 Garibaldi stop.

HoursTue-Sun 10:00-18:00 (closed Mondays and public holidays)

LocationPromenade du Paillon, Nice

TipsThe rooftop terrace is open to everyone free of charge, even without a museum ticket, for great views over Nice.

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★ 4.6

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Built between 1905 and 1912 by Béatrice Ephrussi, heiress to the Rothschild banking dynasty, this Italian-inspired Belle Époque villa crowns a hilltop on Cap Ferrat overlooking the Mediterranean. Nine themed gardens — French, Spanish, Japanese, and more — surround the house. Inside, an extensive art collection of Sèvres porcelain, tapestries, and paintings awaits, and the garden fountains perform a musical water show on the hour. Admission about EUR 16. About 20 minutes from Nice by bus 15 or car.

HoursDaily 10:00-18:00 (shorter hours in winter; varies by season)

LocationSaint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, near Nice

TipsThe fountain show starts on the hour, so time your visit accordingly. The terrace cafe is a lovely spot to rest with a sea view.

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★ 4.6

Villefranche-sur-Mer

A small harbor town about 6km east of Nice, set on one of the deepest natural harbors in the Mediterranean and a popular cruise ship anchorage. Its pastel-colored buildings, narrow stairways, and the 14th-century Rue Obscure — one of Europe's oldest covered street tunnels — are the main draws. The Chapelle Saint-Pierre, decorated with murals by Jean Cocteau, is another highlight. Free to stroll (chapel admission about EUR 3). About 15-20 minutes from Nice by train or bus.

HoursVillage always open (Chapelle Saint-Pierre Wed-Mon 10:00-12:00 and 15:00-19:00, closed Tuesdays)

LocationVillefranche-sur-Mer, near Nice

TipsThe Rue Obscure offers a cool, shaded walk on hot summer days. Harbor-front cafes are a great spot to watch cruise ships come and go.

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★ 4.3

Port Lympia (Port of Nice)

Construction of Nice's historic harbor began in the 18th century under the Kingdom of Sardinia, and it sits just east of Castle Hill. Pastel-hued buildings ring the water against the backdrop of the Notre-Dame-du-Port church, with yachts, fishing boats, and Corsica-bound ferries all sharing the basin. The surrounding streets are lined with cozy restaurants and bars, making it a popular evening stroll. Free and open to walk anytime. 5-minute walk from Tram 1 Garibaldi stop.

HoursOpen 24 hours

LocationLe Port, Nice

TipsYou can watch ferries departing for Corsica here, and the harbor-side restaurants are great for seafood in the evening.

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★ 4.5

Antibes

A port town about 20km southwest of Nice with a history stretching back to Greek and Roman times. The Picasso Museum, housed in a 17th-century château built on the Grimaldi castle, displays works Pablo Picasso created during his stay here in 1946. Highlights include the walled old town, the Provençal market at Marché Provençal, and Port Vauban, one of Europe's largest yacht marinas. Picasso Museum admission about EUR 8. About 20-25 minutes from Nice by train.

HoursOld town always open (Picasso Museum Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00, closed Mondays)

LocationAntibes, near Nice

TipsPort Vauban is a great spot to admire mega-yachts, and Marché Provençal is perfect for tasting fresh Mediterranean produce.

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★ 4.5

Menton

Located about 30km east of Nice, right on the Italian border, Menton is a resort town known as 'the pearl of France' for its mild climate. Its Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron), held every February, is world-famous, and the pastel old town, Basilique Saint-Michel, and subtropical gardens like Jardin Serre de la Madone are among the main attractions. The Jean Cocteau Museum is also located here. Free to stroll the old town. About 30-40 minutes from Nice by train.

HoursOld town always open (gardens and museums have individual opening hours)

LocationMenton, near Nice

TipsBook accommodation well in advance if visiting during the February Lemon Festival. The view over the harbor from the steps of Basilique Saint-Michel is lovely.

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Things to Do in Nice

Tour

Monaco & Èze Day Tour

Half-day minibus tour from Nice combining Monaco, Èze village, and La Turbie. About EUR 55-75

Price About EUR 55-75Duration 4-5 hours

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Adventure

Beach Sunbathing & SUP

Rent a sunbed at a private beach club or try stand-up paddleboarding along the Promenade des Anglais. Sunbed EUR 18-25, SUP from EUR 20/hr

Price Sunbed EUR 18-25 / SUP EUR 20/hrDuration Half day

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Culture

Provence Winery Tour

Visit a Bellet AOC winery for rosé and red wine tastings. Winery visit with tastings about EUR 60-90

Price About EUR 60-90Duration 4 hours

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Culture

Nice Food Tour

Guided walking food tour through Vieux Nice sampling socca, pissaladière, salade niçoise, and wine. About EUR 75-95

Price About EUR 75-95Duration 3 hours

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Nature

Castle Hill Sunset Walk

Ride the free elevator up Castle Hill for sunset over the Baie des Anges. Free

Price FreeDuration 1-2 hours

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Tour

Cannes & Antibes Day Trip

Take the train to visit the Cannes Film Festival promenade and Antibes's old town with the Picasso Museum. Train round trip about EUR 12-15

Price About EUR 12-15 (train round trip)Duration Full day

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Must-Try Food in Nice

Socca

🍢 Street Food

A traditional Nicoise chickpea-flour pancake, a star of the old town market stalls. About EUR 3-5 per serving. Chez Theresa near Cours Saleya is the local favorite.

Salade Nicoise

🍱 Traditional

Mediterranean salad of tuna, olives, eggs, and anchovies. About EUR 12-18 at restaurants. Old town backstreet eateries offer better value than beachfront spots.

Pan Bagnat

🍢 Street Food

A Provencal sandwich stuffing Nicoise salad ingredients into a round roll. About EUR 5-8. Grab one from an old town deli and enjoy it on the beach.

Ratatouille

🍱 Traditional

A Provençal vegetable stew of eggplant, zucchini, tomato, and pepper simmered with olive oil and herbs — born in Nice. About EUR 14-20. Order it as a main or side at an old town bistro.

Bouillabaisse

🍱 Traditional

A Provençal fisherman's stew of mixed Mediterranean fish flavored with saffron and fennel, served with rouille sauce and baguette. About EUR 35-55. Harbourside seafood restaurants serve the authentic version.

Pissaladière

🍢 Street Food

A Nicoise onion tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and black olives. About EUR 4-7. Try a freshly baked piece at an old town bakery or a Cours Saleya stall.

Tarte Tropézienne

🍰 Dessert

A Côte d'Azur signature dessert — a soft brioche filled with vanilla cream. About EUR 5-8. Try it at the Nice branch of La Tarte Tropézienne.

Nice Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Nice?

May-October is the prime season. July-August is great for the beach, and the Nice Carnival lights up the city each February.

How much does it cost to travel in Nice?

Around $85-145 per day (lodging $50-85, food $20-35, transit $7-15).

How do I get around in Nice?

From Nice Cote d'Azur Airport, tram line 2 reaches the center in about 30 minutes. The compact city is easy to cover on foot and by tram. Prepaid SIMs are available at the airport (about EUR 15/week). Card payments are widely accepted. Tipping 5-10% at restaurants is customary.

Do I need a visa to visit Nice?

Korean passport holders can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days.

Is Nice safe for tourists?

Watch for pickpockets on the beach and in the old town. Avoid walking the beach area alone at night.

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