Must-See in Nice, France: A City Guide for Tourists

Nice, France is one of the most popular cities to visit in the world. Located on the French Riviera, Nice is known for its beautiful beaches, its vibrant culture and its stunning scenery. With its idyllic climate, unique architecture and its long history, Nice is a city that everyone should experience at least once. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural experience or an exciting city adventure – Nice has something for everyone.

History of Nice

Nice has been inhabited since antiquity, and it was originally home to the Ligurians, an ancient Mediterranean people. In the 4th century BC, the city was conquered by the Romans, who made it part of the province of Gallia Narbonensis. The city eventually came under the control of the House of Savoy in 1388, and it remained part of the House of Savoy until 1860. In 1860, Nice became part of France after a referendum was held to determine the city’s fate.

In addition to its long and interesting history, Nice is also known for its unique architecture. The city is home to many beautiful buildings dating back to different eras, from the Baroque-style architecture of the 16th and 17th centuries to the more modern style of the 20th century. The city also has several well-preserved historical sites, such as the Cours Saleya market, which dates back to the 18th century.

Things to Do in Nice

Nice is a city filled with things to do and explore. From shopping and dining to sightseeing and exploring the city’s many historical sites, there’s something for everyone in Nice. Here are some of the most popular activities in Nice:

Visit Promenade des Anglais

Promenade des Anglais is one of Nice’s most famous attractions and it is a must-see for any visitor to the city. The promenade is a 7-km long sidewalk that runs along the coast alongside the Mediterranean Sea. It is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. Along the promenade are a number of shops, cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for an afternoon stroll or a leisurely lunch.

Explore Castle Hill

Castle Hill is another popular attraction in Nice and it is home to some of the best views of the city. The hill is located just west of the Old Town and provides a great vantage point to take in the sights of Nice from above. On top of Castle Hill sits Castle Park, which is an 11-acre park with gardens, monuments and sculptures. It’s also home to a number of cafes and restaurants and is a great place to sit and watch the sunset over the city.

Shop at Cours Saleya Market

Cours Saleya Market is one of Nice’s most popular markets and it is a great place to find local food and souvenirs. The market has been around since the 18th century and it is filled with stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing, jewelry and handmade items. The market is open from Tuesday-Sunday from 8am-6pm, making it a great place to spend an afternoon exploring.

Explore Vieux Nice

Vieux Nice (Old Town) was once an independent fishing village and today it remains one of the most popular areas in Nice. Here you will find narrow winding streets lined with colourful buildings and plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops. It’s also home to some of Nice’s most famous attractions, such as Place Massena and Palais Lascaris. Vieux Nice is definitely worth exploring if you have time!

Popular Tours in Nice

If you’re looking for an exciting activity in Nice, there are plenty of tours available that will help you get the most out of your visit. From boat tours to walking tours, here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting Nice:

Nice Old Town Walking Tour

This guided walking tour takes you through some of Nice’s oldest streets and historic buildings as you explore Vieux Nice (Old Town). You will learn about the city’s history and culture as you wander through its charming streets. The tour includes stops at some of Old Town’s most famous attractions such as Place Massena and Palais Lascaris. You will also have time to explore on your own and enjoy a few refreshments while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Book a Nice Old Town Walking Tour here.

Nice Boat Tour

This boat tour takes you on an exciting journey along the coast of Nice as you explore the beautiful coastline from the sea. On this tour you will have the chance to see some of Nice’s most iconic landmarks such as Castle Hill and Promenade des Anglais from a unique perspective as you cruise along the waves. You will also have time to take in some stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea as you learn about Nice’s history from your knowledgeable guide. Book a Nice Boat Tour here.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Nice

Nice is a vibrant city with plenty of activities to explore and plenty of memories to be made. From its stunning beaches to its charming old town -there really is something for everyone in this beautiful French city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting city adventure – Nice has something for everyone!