# Must See Nice – A City Guide for Tourists Visiting for The First Time

Nice is a city on the French Riviera in the South of France that is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, excellent food, and vibrant culture. It is the second-largest city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, and the fifth most populous city in France. This guide will provide tourists with all the necessary information about Nice, including its history, culture, attractions, activities, and tours.

## History of Nice

The land that would become Nice has been inhabited since the Stone Age. It was later colonized by the Greeks in 350 BC and was named Nikaia after Nike, the goddess of victory. Over the years it changed hands between several different powers, including the Roman Empire, the Republic of Genoa, and the Kingdom of Sardinia. In 1860 it became part of France and its official name was changed to Nice.

In the 19th century, Nice became a popular destination for wealthy tourists who wanted to experience its mild climate and beautiful scenery. It developed into a cultural center and many famous artists and writers made their home there. In the 20th century, it became even more popular with tourists and its economy grew rapidly.

## What to See and Do in Nice

Nice is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of things to see and do. Here are just some of the top attractions and activities you can enjoy:

### Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a stunning seafront walkway along the coast of Nice. It is a great place to take a stroll, relax, and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the promenade you can find many shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. It is also the site of the annual Carnival of Nice, a popular event that takes place every year in February.

### Old Town

Nice’s Old Town is a charming neighborhood with winding streets, beautiful buildings, and plenty of small shops and cafes. The area is filled with fascinating cultural attractions, including churches, museums, galleries, and markets. Don’t forget to visit Place Masséna, a large public square featuring fountains and statues.

### Castle Hill

Castle Hill is a hill overlooking Nice that is home to many historic buildings, including the beautiful Château de Nice. The castle dates back to the 12th century and offers stunning views of the city below. On Castle Hill you can also find several churches and parks as well as a number of amazing restaurants.

### Beaches

Nice has several beautiful beaches that are great for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. Popular beaches include Plage de la Paillon, which is located near Old Town, and Plage du Château, which is located on Castle Hill.

### Parks

Nice has several lovely parks that are perfect for an afternoon stroll or picnic. The most popular park is Parc du Château, which offers stunning views from atop Castle Hill. Other parks include Parc de la Colline du Château and Jardin Albert I.

### Shopping

Nice is filled with shops selling everything from fashion to souvenirs to local delicacies. The best places to go shopping are Cours Saleya market in Old Town and Avenue Jean Médecin in the city center. There are also several large shopping malls in Nice including Les Arcades Shopping Center and Centre Commercial de La Croisette.

## Popular Tours in Nice

There are many exciting tours available in Nice that can help you get to know the city better. Here are some popular tours that you should consider when visiting:

Nice Food Tour

The Nice Food Tour is a great way to sample some of the city’s best cuisine. You’ll get to taste traditional dishes like socca (a type of chickpea pancake), stuffed courgette flowers, pissaladière (a type of onion tart), farcis niçois (a type of stuffed vegetables), and much more. The tour also includes visits to local markets and restaurants as well as information about Nice’s history and culture. To book this tour, click here.

Nice Walking Tour

The Nice Walking Tour is a great way to explore the city’s top sights and attractions. You’ll get to visit places like Place Masséna, Promenade des Anglais, Castle Hill, Old Town, and more. The tour also includes lots of interesting facts about each location as well as stops where you can take photos or buy souvenirs. To book this tour, click here.

Nice Boat Tour

The Nice Boat Tour is a great way to get an up-close look at some of Nice’s attractions from the water. You’ll get to cruise past landmarks like Place Masséna, Castle Hill, and Mont Boron while learning more about them from your knowledgeable guide. The tour also includes plenty of photo opportunities as well as views of some of Nice’s most beautiful beaches. To book this tour, click here.

## Conclusion
Nice is an amazing city with something for everyone. Whether you want to experience its rich history and culture or just relax on its beautiful beaches, you won’t be disappointed by this vibrant destination. With its mild climate, excellent food, and many activities to choose from, you’ll never run out of things to see and do in Nice.