Top 5 Things to Do in Nice
The stunning city of Nice, the unofficial capital of Côte d’Azur, is a real must-see for every real world traveller. Since the 19th century, the city attracts tourists with its enticing old town, marvellous architecture, fantastic markets and a wide range of restaurants and bars. Check out our guide and see what’s not to miss if you happen to be in this piece of heaven!
1) Walk along the Promenade des Anglais
This stunning 7-km-long coast line is the first association for most people when someone mentions Nice. The project of building this vast promenade, proposed by the English aristocracy, along the seashore dates back to the 19th century. In their honor, its first name was Camin des Angles (the name was changed in 1860). The south way of the Promenade is the centre of cycle paths surrounded by kiosks and palm trees, with the legendary blue chairs which give tourists the opportunity to relax and enjoy while admiring the Baie des Angles. The Promenade is close to some other city’s landmarks, like the Palais de la Mediterranee, Phoenix Park and the Museum of Asian Arts.
2) See the Old Town (Vieille Ville)
The Old Town of Nice is the favourite spot in the city, for both the locals and the tourists. Narrow streets, colorful buildings, bars and restaurants, handicraft shops and boutiques are something you have to see when visiting this beautiful town. It’s a perfect place to try the most popular local dish, socca (delicious pancake made of chick pea flour, water and olive oil), in a romantic, antique atmosphere, especially after the sunset. The Old Town has also some of the breathtaking churches of the city, whose beauty cannot be completely seen until you enter them. And make sure to spend some time eating the famous Fenocchio ice cream and sitting in cafes on the main court before you leave Nice.
3) Admire the coast from the Castle Hill
For the most beautiful view of the city and the Mediterranean coastline, this is definitely the place to go. Once a citadel used for military purposes, the Castle Hill today is one of the favorite places in the city for everyone who wants to escape the city hassle. If you don’t like climbing many stairs, take the elevator near the beach. Along the way and up you will find many places to rest or have a small picnic. There are a few snack bars and shops up at the top. One part is ideal for archeology enthusiasts, another has a playground and there is a man-made, artificial waterfall as well.
4) Become an art master in city’s museums
As far as art is concerned, Nice successfully combines the old and the contemporary. If you’re an art enthusiast (but even if you’re not one), make sure to include the city’s museums in your itinerary. When it comes to the contemporary side, the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain is a must-see, for its large collection of works regarding the Nice School, New Realism and Pop Art. The Musée Matisse is the centre of the 17th century paintings, engravings and drawings. On the other hand, the Musée National Message Biblique Marc Chagall collects biblically themed paintings of strong colors juxtaposed with the similar-to-basement looks of the museum.
5) Shop through the Avenue Jean Medecin
The Avenue Jean Medecin became the shopping centre of Nice. The street is a shopper’s paradise with stores ranging from pricey boutiques to shops with reasonable prices, with dozens of specialty stores as well. This city zone breaths out a friendly and ‘laid back’ atmosphere all round the area. It’s a great place to check out the tourist-friendly shops and local handicrafts and products, have a snack or a drink at a street cafe, spend some money in the Etoile shopping centre or just enjoy your walk through one of the crowdest places in the city.
