Nice and the French Riviera
The glamorous capital of the Cote d'Azur - a curving pebble beach, a sun-baked old town and the sweeping Promenade des Anglais on the blue Mediterranean.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Nice is the sun-drenched capital of the French Riviera, curving around the Baie des Anges on the blue Mediterranean, its seafront the famous Promenade des Anglais. Behind it, the old town of narrow lanes, ochre facades and a lively market spills toward Castle Hill and its view, while the glamorous coast of Cannes, Monaco and Antibes lies within easy reach.
What you actually see
- The Promenade des Anglais - the famous seafront promenade along the bay.
- Vieux Nice - the old town of lanes, ochre facades and the Cours Saleya market.
- Castle Hill - the park with the sweeping view over the bay and old town.
- The Riviera coast - Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and the Corniche drives nearby.
When to go
Late spring to early autumn for the beach and warm sea; summer is hot and busy, the shoulder seasons calmer. The February carnival is a lively winter highlight.
Honest expectations
The beach is pebble, not sand, which surprises many. It is a busy, built-up resort city rather than a quiet retreat. The old town and market are the charm; the coast around it, from Monaco to Antibes, holds much of the glamour.
Nearby
Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and the Corniche drives spread along the coast; the hilltop villages of the Riviera are inland.
What to pack for Nice and the French Riviera
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
