What is There to Do for Fun in Nice?

Nice is the second largest French city and a popular tourist destination, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors of all ages entertained. There are a countless number of things to do in Nice, from sightseeing at the castle and beaches to shopping, art galleries and live performances. Here, we present a comprehensive guide to all the best ways to occupy your time in this beautiful part of the world.

Outdoor Activities

Nice is home to many parks and gardens that visitors can explore and enjoy. The Russian Orthodox Cathedral, the Parc de Valmasque and the Bois de Boulogne are some of the most popular spots, with picnic areas, sports fields, ponds and gardens. For those looking for even more outdoorsy fun, there is plenty to explore throughout the entire region including canyons, rocks and limestone cliffs and plenty of beaches with all sorts of watersports available.

Sightseeing

Nice is home to the majestic Castle Hill, where visitors can explore the remains of the former royal court. The Castle Hill also has a vast panoramic view of Nice and the Mediterranean Sea, so leave plenty of time for exploring and taking photographs. Another great sightseeing spot is the Promenade des Anglais, a seafront pedestrian walkway which offers stunning views along the coast. From here it’s easy to take a leisurely stroll to some of Nice’s other attractions such as the Chateau Hill shopping centre, Old Town and the Museum of Modern Art.

Shopping

The cobbled streets of Nice’s Old Town are home to many antiques shops, while trendy boutiques can be found in the Carré d’Or neighbourhood. Food fans will love the selection of regional specialities such as olives, cheeses and lavender monsoon at the famous Cours Saleya market. There are also luxury stores, chocolatiers and plenty of vintage outlets in Nice, making it one of France’s premier shopping destinations.

Art & Culture

Nice is an arty city with plenty of cultural attractions to visit. Explore Place Massena – one of the largest public squares in Europe – or get lost in the delightful winding streets of Vieille Ville.

A great way to take in some art is by visiting one of Nice’s museums, such as the Matisse Museum or Normandy Museum. The Theatre du Petit Marbrier is also worth visiting for a unique theatrical experience, while the Opera de Nice offers guests a more cultural experience with opera and dance performances.

Entertainment

Nice has plenty of options for those looking for entertainment. Jazz fans should make sure to check out the music festivals held in spring and autumn celebrating the best of jazz from throughout the world. If it’s classical music you’re after, Nice hosts Europe’s third-largest classic music festival every July. There are also many cinemas offering world-renowned films spanning all genres and plenty of nightclubs and bars where you can spend your night away with friends dancing until dawn.

So as you can see there is no shortage of fun activities to enjoy in Nice! Whether it’s outdoor activities like beach sports or sightseeing attractions that take your interest, there is sure to be something here to keep everyone entertained during their stay. With so many cultural experiences on offer lovely weather, Nice is the perfect holiday destination for all ages.

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering the Best of Nice: Where Fun Never Stops

Located on the French Riviera, Nice is a city that offers a stunning coastline and year-round warm weather, making it a relaxed and friendly destination that’s perfect for those who love the outdoors, arts, and culture. With so much to see and do in this cosmopolitan city, here’s an insider’s guide that will enable you to discover the best Nice has to offer.

Local Attractions

Nice has numerous attractions that are great fun to visit. Some of the must-sees include:

1. The Beaches: Nice’s beaches are considered some of the most beautiful in the world. The turquoise waters of the Mediterranean combined with the stunning scenery make for a perfect sunbathing and swimming experience. Some popular beaches include Plage Beau Rivage and Plage de la Baie des Anges.

2. Promenade des Anglais: This famous seaside promenade stretches about five miles along the coastline of Nice, and is perfect for jogging, biking, or just walking while enjoying breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

3. Nice Castle Hill: Located at the top of a hill overlooking Nice, the castle ruins offer sweeping views of the city, which are simply breathtaking, and offer a great way to get a sense of the city’s layout.

4. The Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice): This is the historic heart of the city and is a must-see if you’re interested in art or architecture. With its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, local markets, and boutique shops and café’s, this is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a taste of the local culture.

Food and Drink

France is renowned for its gastronomy and Nice is no exception. With its Mediterranean climate, fresh ingredients from local produce and seafood markets, and a fusion of French and Italian cuisine, Nice is an absolute foodie paradise. Some great local restaurants include:

1. La Merenda: A tiny, no-frills eatery run by a husband and wife team, La Merenda is a local favourite for its delicious traditional countryside dishes, such as veal stew or homemade terrines.

2. Le Comptoir du Marché: A popular food market in Nice’s Old Town, this place is buzzing with life and has a vast selection of fresh ingredients, charcuterie, and cheeses, all of which can be enjoyed in the market itself or bought to take home.

3. Le Petit Authentique: Another popular spot in the Old Town, Le Petit Authentique is a great place for people-watching while enjoying some classic French favourites such as ratatouille or escargots.

Cultural Experiences

Gothic architecture, art museums, and local traditions give Nice a rich culture that is worth exploring. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to try:

1. The Matisse Museum: This museum houses a significant collection of works by renowned artist Henri Matisse, who spent much of his life on the French Riviera.

2. The Russian Orthodox Cathedral: Built in the early 20th century to serve the Russian community in Nice, the cathedral features stunning onion-shaped domes and intricate mosaics.

3. Nice Carnival: A lively, vibrant pre-Lenten festival that takes place every February. The Carnival is renowned for its colourful floats, lively music, and colourful parades.

Local History

Nice has a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Greeks. The city was one of the main ports for the Greeks in the Mediterranean and over the years has been ruled by the Romans, Barbarians, and the Italians, before finally becoming part of France. Some top spots to discover Nice’s rich history include:

1. The Archaeological Museum: Located in the former 17th-century palace of the Bishop of Nice, this museum houses some of the most significant ancient Greek artefacts from the region.

2. The Colline du Château: The castle ruins offer sweeping views of the city and enable you to get a sense of the history of Nice while enjoying its scenery.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience the lesser-known side of Nice, try visiting these off-the-beaten-path attractions:

1. Parc de la Colline du Château: Located on the site of the former castle of the city, this park provides a quiet, serene space to relax and enjoy stunning views of the city.

2. Le Jardin Secret: Tucked away in the Old Town of Nice, this charming hidden garden is a delightful spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

In conclusion, Nice is a city that will delight visitors of all ages and interests, with its stunning surroundings, diverse gastronomy, and fascinating history and culture. Use this insider’s guide to discovering the best of Nice and make your next trip a memorable one.