Nice Travel Guide - Insider Tips For Exploring the French Riviera

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Travel Notes: Destinations: France - Nice Travel Guide.

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Travel Guide For Visitors to Nice

Nice is not just another pretty face on the French Riviera. From hidden local haunts to Instagram-worthy beaches, discover the best of the famous Blue Coast (Côte d'Azur). Share on Facebook

The Nice Thing About Nice

Forget everything you think you know about Nice.

Yes, it's got that picture-perfect Mediterranean coastline and yes, the Instagram shots practically take themselves, but this isn't just another French Riviera postcard destination where you'll spend a fortune sipping overpriced rosé whilst dodging cruise ship crowds.

Driving Distances in Europe

Driving to Nice.

The Nice Things About Nice

Nice is a proper city with proper character; think bustling markets, affordable local bistros, and enough cultural clout to keep you busy between beach sessions.

Whether you're planning a long weekend escape or using it as your base for exploring the Côte d'Azur, this guide will help you navigate Nice like someone who actually lives there.

When to Visit Nice - Timing Your Perfect Trip

Peak Season Reality Check (July-August)

Summer in Nice means wall-to-wall tourists, eye-watering accommodation prices, and beach space at a premium.

The weather is glorious but you'll be sharing the sunny days with half of Europe.

Book months ahead if you're committed to peak season.

The Sweet Spot (May-June, September-October)

These shoulder months offer the best of both worlds: warm weather (20-25°C), manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

September is particularly lovely; the sea's still warm from summer, but the tourist hordes have departed.

Winter Wandering (November-March)

Nice's mild winter climate (averaging 13°C) makes it perfect for off-season city breaks.

Many attractions remain open, hotel prices plummet, and you'll experience the city as locals do.

Pack a light jacket and enjoy having the Promenade des Anglais largely to yourself.

Getting to Nice - Your Transport Options

Flying into Nice Côte d'Azur Airport

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is an international airport located 6km south-west of Nice.

One of the busiest in France, the airport serves as a key gateway to the French Riviera and is also utilised by travellers heading to Monaco, which is about 20km away.

The airport tram (Line 2) runs every 6-8 minutes, taking 30 minutes to reach the city centre for just €1.70; considerably cheaper than the €35+ taxi ride.

Driving to Nice

If you're planning to explore the wider region, hiring a car makes sense.

However, parking in Nice city centre is expensive (€2-3 per hour) and spaces are scarce.

Consider staying slightly outside the centre if you're driving.

Train Travel to Nice

Nice-Ville station connects seamlessly to France's TGV network.

The journey from Paris takes about 5.5 hours, whilst regional trains serve the entire Riviera coastline.

The station's central location means you can walk to most hotels within 15 minutes.

Where to Stay in Nice - Neighbourhood Guide

Liberation/Jean Médecin District

The modern shopping and business district offers good value accommodation with excellent transport connections.

Less atmospheric than Old Town but more affordable, with supermarkets and practical amenities nearby.

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, shoppers, business visitors.

Budget range: €50-150 per night.

Promenade des Anglais Area

Prime real estate with sea views and easy beach access.

Expect to pay premium prices for seafront hotels, but the location can't be beaten.

The area offers excellent transport links and plenty of dining options.

Best for: Beach lovers, luxury seekers, romantic getaways.

Budget range: €120-400+ per night.

Vieux Nice (Old Town)

The atmospheric heart of the city, with narrow medieval streets, excellent restaurants, and the famous Cours Saleya market.

Hotels here range from boutique gems to budget options, though rooms can be small and street noise is common.

Best for: First-time visitors, foodies, culture enthusiasts.

Budget range: €60-200 per night.

Popular Hotels in Nice

Nice's Best Beaches - Beyond the Postcard Shots

Beach Scene in and Around Nice

As most of Nice's coastline consists of pebble beaches rather than sand, comfortable beach shoes are essential; those rounded stones can heat up considerably.

Many beaches are privately operated (plages privées) charging €20-40 for sunbed and parasol hire, whilst public sections (plages publiques) are free but more crowded.

Plage Beau Rivage

Located near the Old Town, this public beach offers excellent facilities and stunning views of the Baie des Anges.

Arrive early (before 10am) to secure a good spot during busy periods./p>

Plage de la Réserve

A more upmarket private beach with restaurant service and comfortable facilities.

Worth the splurge for a special occasion or if you prefer guaranteed comfort and service.

Plage du Centenaire

Popular with locals and families, this public beach near the airport offers more space and fewer crowds than central beaches.

The slight aircraft noise is offset by the authentic local atmosphere./p>

What to Do in Nice - Beyond Beach Bumming

Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

The 30-minute walk up this 92-metre hill rewards you with panoramic views over Nice and the Mediterranean.

Alternatively, take the free lift from near the Old Town.

Visit during golden hour for spectacular photo opportunities.

Day Trip to Monaco

Just 30 minutes by train (€4.10 each way), Monaco makes an easy day trip from Nice.

Visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino, explore the Prince's Palace, or simply people-watch in one of the world's most expensive postcodes.> EExplore Vieux Nice (Old Town)

Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets, colourful buildings, and hidden squares that make up Nice's historic heart.

The Tuesday-Sunday morning market at Cours Saleya offers fresh produce, flowers, and local specialities; arrive hungry and with an empty bag.

Museum Hopping

Nice punches above its weight culturally.

The Musée Matisse showcases works by the artist who spent his final years here, whilst the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain offers thought-provoking contemporary exhibitions.

Many museums offer joint tickets for significant savings.p>

Nice Food Scene - Eating Like a Local/h2>

Budget Eating Tips

Look for Menu du Jour lunch specials (typically €12-18) at local bistros.

Avoid restaurants directly on the Promenade des Anglais, where you'll pay premium prices for average food.

The streets behind the seafront offer much better value.

Local Wine Discoveries

Nice produces its own wines in the Bellet appellation, just 15km from the city centre.

These boutique wines rarely leave the region, making them perfect discoveries for wine enthusiasts./p>

Market Shopping

Beyond Cours Saleya, explore the Marché aux Fleurs for stunning flower displays and the covered Marché de la Liberation for excellent local produce and prepared foods.

Both offer genuine local experiences away from tourist traps.

Socca - Nice's Signature Street Food

This chickpea flour pancake cooked in wood-fired ovens is Nice's most famous local dish.

Chez Pipo (13 Rue Bavastro) near the port serves the city's best socca; crispy edges, creamy centre, and perfectly seasoned with black pepper.

Getting Around Nice - Transport Made Simple

Cycling Options

Dedicated cycle lanes in Nice make city cycling relatively safe.

Vélo Bleu, Nice's bike-sharing scheme, offers 175 stations across the city.

Day passes cost €1 plus usage fees.>

Electric bikes are available for tackling Nice's hillier areas.

Tram Network

Nice's modern tram system efficiently connects major attractions, the airport, and surrounding areas.

Single tickets cost €1.70, but day passes (€5) offer better value if you're sightseeing.

Trams run every 4-7 minutes during peak hours.

Walking Nice

The city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

Most major attractions lie within a 20-minute walk of each other, making Nice perfect for exploring on foot.

The Promenade des Anglais offers level, scenic walking for 7km along the coast.

Shopping in Nice - From Markets to Malls

Antique Hunting in Old Town

Monday's antique market at Cours Saleya offers unique finds from vintage jewellery to retro homewares.

Prices are negotiable, and early arrival ensures the best selection.

Avenue Jean Médecin

Nice's main shopping street features major department stores, international brands, and the modern Nice Etoile shopping centre.

Pedestrianised and tram-connected, Avenue Jean Médecin is perfect for retail therapy.

Local Specialities to Take Home

Crystallised fruits from Maison Auer (operating since 1820), locally produced olive oil, and bottles of Pastis make authentic Nice souvenirs.

These items reflect genuine local culture rather than generic tourist tat.

Practical Nice Travel Tips

Language Considerations

Whilst French is the official language, Nice's tourism infrastructure means basic English is widely understood in hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

Learning basic French pleasantries will enhance your experience and local interactions.

Money Matters

Nice uses the Euro, and card payments are widely accepted.

However, some market stalls and small cafés prefer cash.

ATMs are plentiful, but notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.

Safety and Security

Nice is generally safe for tourists, with standard big-city precautions advised.

Beach theft can be problematic; don't leave valuables unattended whilst swimming.

The Old Town's narrow streets can feel isolated late at night.

Tipping Culture

Service charges are included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated.

Taxi drivers and hotel staff don't expect tips but welcome small gratuities for good service.

Day Trip Ideas from Nice

Cannes and the Glamour Coast

A 40-minute train journey brings you to the festival city.

Walk the famous Croisette, window-shop at designer boutiques, or take a boat to the peaceful Lérins Islands./p>

Italy Day Trip - Ventimiglia

Just 50 minutes by train, this Italian border town offers excellent Friday markets, authentic Italian cuisine, and a different cultural perspective.

Remember to carry your passport for border crossings.

Medieval Villages - Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence

These stunning hilltop villages showcase Provence's medieval heritage.

Bus 82 serves Èze (45 minutes), whilst Saint-Paul-de-Vence requires bus connections but rewards visitors with art galleries and incredible views.

Making the Most of Your Nice Holiday

Nice rewards visitors who venture beyond the obvious tourist trail.

Yes, the Promenade des Anglais is magnificent and the Old Town charming, but the city's real character emerges in neighbourhood markets, family-run restaurants, and quiet squares where locals gather for their evening pastis.

Plan your days around the rhythm of Mediterranean life; early morning market visits, leisurely lunches, afternoon beach time, and evening strolls along the seafront.

Nice isn't a destination to rush through; it's a place to savour, one sun-soaked moment at a time.

Whether you're here for a quick city break or a longer Riviera exploration, Nice offers that perfect balance of urban sophistication and coastal relaxation that makes the French Riviera eternally appealing.

Just remember to pack comfortable walking shoes; those pebble beaches and cobbled streets demand sensible footwear, regardless of how fabulous your holiday wardrobe might be.

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