Today, really a nice day for me to talk about the Nice city of France. On my journey, I was really excited to explore this city. Let’s jump into the stories of my journey and explore “what to see and do in Nice?”
Nice. So beautiful is the name and just dreamy brings images of blue calm waters, hot golden sands, green trees, and colorful life around the Mediterranean. For months, I have longed to take a stroll on the Promenade des Anglais, eat some nice French food, and enjoy the beautiful architecture of this city.
And finally, I was stepping out of my plane and right there in a city that can only be described as a perfect fusion of the old and the new, and of history and echelons of affluence.
At that time, I was just thinking what to do in Nice actually. If there is one city in France you are likely to agree with me on is Nice and if you are asking what to see in Nice just start with my experience.
First Visit to Nice- The Land of Glorious History
Nice is a delightful and warm place where I went to and instantly liked. The promenade called Promenade des Anglais can be seen going along the bead of the sun-kissed shore.
They had elegant palm trees standing side by side, idle to the Mediterranean winds. The sparkling sea glistened brightly as though fought for in a painting against the warm rays of the sun.
As I took my first promenade along the promenade, I felt as if I was dreaming. Calmly riding their bikes are the pedestrians who live in that place, while the visitors bask like lizards in the warm sandNice- sunshine.
Nice is in the eastern part of France, specifically on the French Riviera. It’s a cosmopolitan city where the ultramarine waters of the Mediterranean meet the vibrant blue red buildings in Old Town.
It is also the fifth most populated French town, the population of Nice is about 340 000 inhabitants. However, the city has got a small town charm, especially in the cobblestoned streets of the Vieille Ville Old Town.
What to See and Do in Nice: My Highlights
1. Explore Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Losing myself in the charming streets of Vieille Ville was one of the things I enjoyed most about Nice. There are 5 facts about Nice France old town that I will tell you in another blog.The old town is filled with houses painted in soft colors with iron railings etched in flower boxes, turned into ornamental gardening.
Wandering through its streets, getting lost in its small shops and markets, I was enchanted by the Cours Saleya Market, where a multitude of flowers and local products filled the makeshift store. The sweet smell of lavender hung in the open air mingling with the fresh bread coming from the hot cement ovens.
2. Visit Castle Hill – Colline du Château
For stunning views of the city and the sea, Castle Hill is not to be missed. It is one of the best things to do in nice france in october. A little exercise hardly will cost you as it was a short but steep walk that I took to get to the hill top (there is also an elevator for the lazy).
This is considered as the best places to visit near nice France. By the time I reached the top, the sight of the city was absolutely amazing. Very good with lots of photographs opportunities – this viewpoint particularly is best when a little bit after sunset, when the whole city is bathed in honey dust rays.
3. The Promenade des Anglais
No matter how short the visit, without at least a walk in the Promenade des Anglais, No one goes back to their home. This remarkable promenade measures 7 kilometers and must see places in nice France.
It is found beside the shore all the time offering sights, both of sea and city. It pleased me to buy a gelato from one of the many stands and sit still watching the locals jogging, cycling, or roller skating. This is the pace to rest with the beauty of the Mediterranean.
Looking for Little Wonders in Nice
As riveting as the headline sights are, it was retreats that displaced me from stressing out most. One day, I found myself in Le Port, the former port for fishing, where bright boats leaned on the cheek and fishermen sprawled on the pier gossiping.
Then I chanced upon a cute, little independent café away from all the beaten paths. I sat there sipping coffee and munching on a warm croissant and at that moment nothing else mattered.
Another such wonderful place was Jardin Albert 1er, this park is located just beside the Promenade in the city. It is a green paradise in the heart of the city where tall palm trees, fountains stand and several benches are situated for a nap after a long day stroll.
The Local Culture: Everyone Makes You Feel At Home
I can say that the people of Nice are friendly and received me well hence the love for the city was obvious from onset. One encounter that I will never forget is an exchange that I had with a shopkeeper in the Vieille Ville neighborhood.
This is one of the best things to do in nice. She was so nice to demonstrate to me how to pick the right bottle of local olive oil thanks to the different olives that are cultivated in the area. Such small kindnesses made a great impact on me as it is these interactions that make travelling in France worthwhile.
A Taste of Nice: The Traditional Dishes And Perfect Places To Eat
For food enthusiasts, Nice is a paradise and the local food is equally impressive as it is a ramen of both French and Italian cuisines. What would stay in my heart after leaving Restaurant Acchiardo, french restaurant in nice france, the greatest place to eat in Old Nice? I enjoyed the famous Niçoise Salad prepared using all fresh organic ingredients from the locale.
The tastes were basic but very interesting-a delightful mix of crunchy veggies, creamy olives and anchovies of appropriate quantity.
For something a bit different than usual, I tried Socca, a typical fast food of Niçoise cuisine. It’s crisp, made with chickpeas and olive oil, and has a soft interior. It’s actually worth it, especially in Chez Pipo, the top restaurants in nice france and also a place for the residents.
On a high end, I can say that La Petite Maison comes highly recommended. These are the best restaurants in old nice france. Here, the seafood was incredible and every meal was made of fresh Mediterranean ingredients.
This is Nice, seriously however much one can generalize it – a very gastronomic town. It doesn’t matter whether you are eating at a 3-star Michelin establishment or buying food on the street – it’s worth it.
Where to Stay in Nice: My Suggestions
Concerning the type of places to stay, cosy Nice can boast of offering something for every specific category of inhabitants. Here are some of my favorites:
1. Beachfront Hotels in Nice France
If you are the type of traveler who would like to be by the sea or the other wild sands, Hotel Negresco is a beautiful and the best hotels in old town nice france, styled property on the Promenade des Anglais.
Its striking pink dome and luxury fittings make it one of the most prestigious establishments within the city. More reasonably priced, offers Hotel La Perouse- stunning Mediterranean views available in the noise-free and cozy atmosphere.
2. Cheap Accommodation Options in Old Town Nice
Many budget tourists choose to stay at Hôtel Rossetti which is located in the heart of Vieille Ville. The area is worth staying inorder to explore all the central attractions.
Its rooftop terrace was of course my favorite one where I was able to sneak in a moment in silence and just watch the skyscrapers’ rooftops. This is one of the affordable hotels in nice france.
3. Best Places for Visiting in Summer
During the summer months, places near a beach are always a great option for staying. Le Méridien Nice provides basic modern comforts such as being located by the beach as well as being quite close to Old Town.
If you are visiting in September or October, you will be surprised that the season is still good for swimming, just minus the busy city. And what to do in Paris as another city.
Traveling to Nice: Practical Advices
And here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Nice:
1. The Best Weather For Travelling In Nice
In that case, the best weather for arriving in Nice depends on what one wishes to do while there. If one would love to hit the beaches, then summer would be the most suitable, though it will be quite congested.
If one however prefers fewer visitors, perhaps September or October will suit them just fine; the climate would still be warm enough. Having been to Nice in September, I loved it. It was ideal sunshine coupled with no loads of tourists.
2. Budget Saving Suggestions
To many people, Nice is costly but that isn’t always the case as there are numerous ways to experience the city economically. Search for local markets such as the Marché de la Libération if you want cheap but tasty food and use the wonderful public transport facilities of the city. Get ideas on how many days are needed for Bordeaux travel.
Contrary to the natural statues, buses, and trams are also very conducive to moving around as tickets are quite cheap.
3. Transportation
Another worrisome issue about this city is that it is very gentle to walk since Old town is also found in this particular city. However, the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is very well connected and also there is the tram system Lignes d’Azur, which makes the transfer from the airport to the city center very efficient.
However, for those wishing to travel a bit farther along the French Riviera, regional trains are quite useful and beautiful. And you will also know if are people safe in Chamonix.
Final Thoughts: Is Nice Worth a Visit?
If you are asking yourself what to see and do in Nice France, look no further. This city has a little something right from historical sites, art galleries to beaches and fine dining.
As you soak a glare at the wonder from Castle Hill, visit the café in Vieille Ville having a glass of wine, or walk down the famous Promenade des Anglais, I assure you Nice will make your heart race just like it made mine.
The mix of historical, cultural, and spectacular environment is a great one that makes this city a must-see location. If it is a short weekend holiday or it is for a longer duration, Nice is a place that always pretty much leaves one feeling as though every moment is a scene from a postcard.
Now it’s time to pack your things, hang your starvation, and prepare for a love for the Latest French Riviera. Nice is ready for you now.
