Nice, France Tourist Attractions – What to See & Do

Nice, France — just a hop, skip and a jump from Paris by train or plane — is worth a detour on your French adventure. The vibrant city blends cosmopolitan energy with laid-back Mediterranean vibe. Its strategic location on the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels) creates a haven of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. Sitting on the stunning Cote d'Azur, this French city offers up a wealth of cultural and outdoor activities to spark your curiosity.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Nice invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures. Its perfect year-round weather with cafe culture, lively street performances, and a deep artistic heritage make it an enviable getaway in any season. From its historic sites to its cultural landmarks, Nice, France has a plethora of attractions that create the classic character that has attracted travelers for centuries.

Promenade des Anglais – The Heart of Nice

Hotel Negresco overlooks the Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges, photo La Negresco

Few places capture the essence of Nice quite like the Promenade des Anglais. This famous waterfront stretches along the Baie des Anges with stunning Mediterranean views. Built in the early 19th century, the promenade was a favorite walkway for British aristocrats escaping the harsh, wet winters their country is known for. Today, it's perfect for an afternoon stroll, a morning jog, or for relaxing. Along the promenade, landmarks like the opulent Hotel Negresco and Palais de la Méditerranée add to the city's grandeur, making it one of the standout Nice, France tourist attractions.

The promenade isn't merely another scenic walkway; it's the social hub of Nice. Cyclists, rollerbladers, and joggers gather on the path, while sun seekers enjoy leisurely moments on its famous blue chairs facing the sea. The wide boulevard, home to street artists, musicians, and sunbathers, add to the ambiance.

If you want to experience Nice's coastal beauty, we recommend you rent a bicycle or take a Segway tour along the promenade for an active way to explore the waterfront. Cafes and restaurants along the way give you a chance to take a break while watching the waves roll in.

Vieux Nice – Exploring the Old Town

Vieux Nice – The Old Town

Nice's Old Town — Vieux Nice. Let's explore the maze of narrow streets, baroque churches, and bustling squares that make the area one of the most captivating of Nice France tourist attractions. At its heart is Cours Saleya, home to the city's famous flower market, where fresh bouquets fill the air with fragrant aromas. Nearby, the Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate, with its classic Italianate design, reflect Nice's ties to the Kingdom of Sardinia. Take time to sample Niçoise culinary specialties: socca, a chickpea pancake, or pissaladière, a savory onion tart.

Vieux Nice is the place for local shopping, from handmade soaps and lavender sachets to artisanal olive oils and local wines. As night falls, Vieux Nice transforms into a popular dining and nightlife destination with terraces and wine bars, filled with locals inviting you to linger over a leisurely meal.

One of the best ways to explore the Old Town is to simply roam its winding streets, discovering hidden squares and local eateries. A stop at Place Rossetti, home to the famous Fenocchio Gelateria, is a must if you love ice cream (or glace as it's called here.) The square, lined with pastel-hued buildings is a special place to uncover the charm of historic Nice.

Colline du Château – Nice France Tourist Attractions

Colline du Château and its commanding presence above the bay

For Nice, France views par excellence, head to Colline du Château, or Castle Hill. Though the original fortress was pulled down in the 18th century, the park remains one of the city's highlights. From here, you can take in sweeping vistas of the Baie des Anges, the Old Town, and the port. Shaded walking paths and cascading waterfalls make it a peaceful retreat from the buzzing streets below.

Okay, the climb to the top can be challenging, but you'll pat yourself on the back once you take i the views. Visitors can reach Castle Hill via stairs, an elevator, or a small tourist train. The park also houses a fascinating cemetery with ornate tombs and sculptures, adding a historical element to the panoramic visit.

Children will enjoy the play areas and open spaces, perfect for picnics or just a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Take plenty of photos of the stunning coastal views and then spend some time before heading down picking out the best ones to send to your soon-to-be-jealous friends.

Nice's Artistic Side – The Museums

At Musée Matisse in Nice, photo Musée Matisse

Musée Matisse

Nice, with its strong artistic heritage, has long been an inspiration for painters & sculptors; the museums here prove it. Musée Matisse is dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for many years. The museum houses an extensive collection of his art, including paintings, sculptures, and personal items. It's located in a beautiful 17th-century villa in the Cimiez neighborhood, serving up dazzling views of the surrounding hills.

The Chagall Museum

Musée National Marc Chagall, renowned for its collection of the artist's biblical works, features stunning stained glass windows in a serene atmosphere, perfect for when you are looking for a peaceful retreat

Villa Masséna

Located in a beautiful 19th-century villa, Musèe Masséna gives you insights into the history of European elites who wintered in Nice. The museum features exhibits on the city's transformation into a luxury resort and includes artifacts from the Belle Époque era.

MAMAC

If you go large on art, the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain modern art museum houses a striking collection of contemporary works with pieces by Yves Klein and Niki de Saint Phalle and many others. By the way, street art is also gaining traction in Nice, with vibrant murals and installations appearing throughout the ville.

What to Do in Nice, France

Cours Saleya Market, with colorful awnings shading the booths, photo Nice Cotes d'Azur

This is is a city that invites exploration — beautiful beaches & vistas, historic Old Town & markets, a vibrant cultural scene that seems to never end. Let's explore some more —

Hit the Beaches & Relax

We've already mentioned Promenade des Anglais — that's all about stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, leisurely walks, and simply enjoying the sea views while sipping coffee at a cafe. The Promenade beach is pebbly (ouch!), but Plage de la Croisette offers a more sandy experience. It's a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, with clear waters and a lively atmosphere.

Cours Saleya Market

Located in the heart of Old Town, Cours Saleya Market is a bustling hub of local culture that showcases one of the lesser-known yet charming Nice France tourist attractions — fresh produce. Every morning except Mondays the market comes alive with colorful stalls selling greens, fish, flowers, and local goods. It's a great place to experience the sights, smells, and tastes of Nice, from fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and olives.

Cultural Events

Nice hosts cultural events throughout the year, adding to its charm as an exciting & vibrant destination.

Carnaval de Nice — One of the most famous carnivals in the world, Carnaval de Nice takes place in February and March. It features elaborate floats, street performances, and a lively atmosphere that floods the city.

Jazz Festival — Nice has a rich jazz heritage and its annual jazz festival is a must-go for music lovers. The festival typically takes place in July and features performances by renowned jazz musicians from around the world.

Le Festival d'Art Sacré — Each summer, Nice hosts a sacred arts festival, a unique event that brings together sacred music and art in historic locations across the city.

A History of Nice

Promenade des Anglais in 1882

Nice has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years, from ancient beginnings to its modern status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ancient Origins

Nice was founded by the Phocaean Greeks in the 5th century BC, who named it Nikaia after the Greek goddess of victory, Nike. Later, it became an important Roman city, known as Cemenelum, and was a significant center for trade and commerce.

Medieval and Renaissance Periods

During the Middle Ages, Nice was part of the Duchy of Savoy, in the western Alps, which played a crucial role in the city's strategic and cultural development. Nice's location made it a prized possession, and it often changed hands between European powers.

19th and 20th Centuries

In the 19th century, Nice became a popular winter resort for European aristocrats, who were drawn by its mild climate and stunning scenery. This period saw the construction of grand hotels and villas, many of which still stand today. Nice was eventually annexed by France in 1860, becoming a French city.

Modern Nice

Today, Nice is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because its historic role as a winter resort town of the Riviera. This designation highlights the city's unique cultural and architectural heritage, and the fact that it remains a fascinating destination fora whole new audience of travelers interested in history, culture, fish, and the wide, wide blue sea.

How to Get to Nice by Train from Paris

A French high-speed train zips along the Mediterranean coast

Traveling from Paris to Nice is a fantastic experience — and scenic as well — thanks to France's extensive efficient rail network. The TGV trains are the fastest way to reach France's southern coast, and the journey to Nice takes around 6 hours, with no changes — just settle into your seat and relax. Trains depart from the Gare de Lyon in Paris and arrive at Nice Ville Station, which is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. Come to think of it, the train trip itself is one of the great Nice France tourist attractions!