Nice, France: famous for its bright turquoise waters, perfect weather, and accessibility to the rest of the Côte d’Azur. Nice is the perfect home base for visiting the many amazing towns, villages, and beaches on the French Riviera. However, you could easily spend days staying put within and being totally content with the amazing restaurants, sights, and activities. There is something for everyone in Nice! We spent a week in Nice and can’t wait to visit again. Here are my recommendations for where to eat, what to see, and where to stay in Nice, France.
WHERE TO EAT
This was one of Dave and I’s favorite meals! It’s a very simple menu where you choose a meat and choose a potato. Incredible flavors and a classic meal. I loved the chicken with mashed potatoes.
Delicious Italian/Mediterranean dishes. The pasta was so good! Great atmosphere but can get quite busy.
This is a great spot for a leisurely lunch. Fantastic Italian food.
This was my favorite pizza of the trip! They also made a delicious Spritz.
A splurge but completely worth it. Authentic French cuisine using only seasonal and local ingredients. I recommend the tasting menu recommended by the chef as it changes frequently.
Michelin Starred South African food.
Delicious Mediterranean food with beautiful ambiance. Felt it was more of a dinner spot.
Classic French fare. If you’ve never tried frog legs or Escargot this is the place to go!
One of the best, if not the best, restaurant with a view in Nice. The restaurant is split into a few different areas, one being on top of a rock in the sea. I recommend getting reservations well in advance and be sure to request the specific area you want to dine in as seating is quite limited in each section.
WHAT TO DO
Get the Feel of Nice:
Walk along the Promenade de Anglais
Climb Castle Hill for the must breathtaking view of the city and Bay of Angels
Explore Old Nice (Vieux Nice)
Shop at Place Massena
People watch with a view at Waka Bar
Cours Saleya Flower Market open Tues-Sun
Quick Trips/Day Trips:
Eze
A medieval town perched up on a hill about 15 minutes car ride from Nice. This was my absolute favorite quick trip from Nice. I felt transported in time walking along the winding, cobble stoned streets, and was amazed by the breathtaking views from the botanical garden.
Villefranche-Sur-Mer
We were recommended to visit Villefranche-Sur-Mer by just about every local we spoke to. It’s much quieter than Nice and only a 10 minute drive. There are lots of beautiful brightly colored restaurants and shops along the water.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Apparently one of the most expensive zip codes in the world and home to one of the most enchanting places in the Cote D’Azur, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. A beautifully maintained Villa and gardens from 1907. If you like architecture, gardens, or history this is a must-go.
Monaco
Famous for Formula 1 and Monte Carlo Casino, Monaco is just a 30 minute train from Nice. We spent a few hours in Monaco and saw hundreds of luxury cars and yachts, it was hard to take it all in! I also really loved the architecture. Something for me, something for Dave.
Menton
A town right on the Italian border. Insanely bright colored buildings! You could easily do Monaco and Menton in the same day as Menton is just another 20 minutes past Monaco.
Antibes
About 30 minutes southwest from Nice you will find Antibes. Antibes is known for its soft sand beaches and luxury yacht filled marina. I loved just walking around and exploring, it definitely had a more relaxed vibe compared to Nice. If you are looking for fun nightlife you will find some great options in Juan-les-Pins.
Cannes
Although we were not in Cannes for the film festival there are many more reasons to visit. You could easily combine Cannes and Antibes for a day trip from Nice since it’s just another 30 min southwest. Cannes imports its sand from the Caribbean creating one the more unique sights in the South of France. Cannes is a must-go if you enjoy luxury shopping and the finer things in life.
Enjoy the Beach:
Private Beach “clubs” are the way to go for the most comfortable beach day. There you purchase a lounger that will reserve it for the day. We would lounge, order food and drinks, swim, and repeat. My favorite beach clubs were:
You can also find a lot of public beach space in Nice. You just need to be comfortable with lounging on the pebbles as the beaches are not sandy.
WHERE TO STAY
Most Iconic:
Hotel Negresco is without a doubt the most iconic and unique hotel in Nice. If you don’t mind splurging for the quintessential Nice experience, this is the place to stay. It is right across the street from the “Promenade des Anglais” and the beach, just a couple of blocks to Place Massena, and about a 10 minute walk to Old Nice.
Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Nice:
Marriott Bonvoy Points Favorite:
Bucket List Hotel:
Are you planning to go to Nice soon? I hope this guide helps and as always let me know if you have any questions.
Also, be sure to check out my long haul flight must-haves.
xx Kylie
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