What to do in Nice in 3 days
Nice is one of the most fascinating cities in the south of France, the beating heart of the French Riviera and perfect balance between French elegance, Mediterranean atmosphere and Italian influences. It is located in the department of the Maritime Alps, a few kilometers from the Italian border, and is an ideal destination all year round thanks to its mild and sunny climate.
The city is easily accessible both by plane and by train. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is well connected to major European cities and is only a few minutes from the center. Alternatively, you can easily arrive by train along the spectacular coastline that connects Genoa, Ventimiglia and the entire Ligurian Riviera to France.
The best time to visit it is from April to October. Spring and early summer are ideal to avoid the crowds and enjoy perfect temperatures, while July and August are livelier but also more crowded. September is often considered the perfect month: still warm sea and more relaxed atmosphere.
What to see and do in Nice
La Promenade des Anglais
The absolute symbol of Nice is the famous Promenade des Anglais. This long walk on the sea is perfect at any time of the day: in the morning for a ride overlooking the sea, in the afternoon to relax on the iconic blue chairs and at sunset to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the French Riviera. The contrast between the intense Mediterranean blue and the golden light of the sun is what makes this place unforgettable.
Vieux Nice: The historic center
The authentic heart of the city is the Vieux Nice, a maze of narrow alleys, ochre facades and lively squares. Here you can breathe the most Mediterranean soul of the city. Don’t miss the Cours Saleya flower and local products market, perfect for immersing yourself in the scents of Provence. Walking aimlessly is the best way to discover craft boutiques, small bistros and photo glimpses everywhere.
Castle Hills
For the most iconic view of Nice you have to climb the Colline du Château. Despite the name, the castle no longer exists, but the park at the top offers one of the most spectacular views of the city: the bay, the port and the Promenade open before the eyes in all their beauty. You can go up on foot or with a free elevator.
Place Masséna and Modern center
Place Masséna is the meeting point between the historic and modern part of the city. Its geometric flooring, statues and fountains make it one of the most scenic places, especially in the evening when the lights make it even more suggestive.
Matisse Museum and art
For those who love art, Nice is also culture. The Musée Matisse tells the link between the painter and the city, while the Musée Marc Chagall houses some of the artist’s most intense works. They are perfect for a quieter break from the rhythm of the city.
Sea and beaches
Nice’s beaches are mainly made of pebbles, but the water is incredibly clear. Private beaches offer more comfort, while public beaches are ideal for those who want to experience the sea in a simpler way. The real pleasure here is to alternate bath and walk on the Promenade.
Trips out of town on the French Riviera
One of the great advantages of Nice is its strategic position: in a few minutes you can reach some of the most beautiful villages on the French Riviera.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Just 10 minutes by train is the beautiful Villefranche-sur-Mer, a small colorful bay with turquoise waters and a picturesque old town. It’s perfect for a half day between the sea and relaxation. The harbor and the citadel offer postcard views.
Èze and the panoramic road
The medieval village of Èze is perched on a rock with breathtaking views of the sea. Its narrow stone streets and exotic gardens make it one of the most scenic excursions in the area.
Menton
Towards the Italian border is Menton, the “pearl of France”. Colorful, quiet and famous for its lemons, it is perfect for a relaxing walk between the sea and gardens.
Monaco
A few minutes by train you arrive in the small and luxurious principality of Monaco, famous for its casino, the port full of yachts and the Monte Carlo district. Even just one visit in a day is absolutely worth it.
Other places not to be missed
Other interesting excursions include Antibes, with its historic center and port, and Cannes, famous for the film festival and its elegant beaches.
Where (and what) to eat and drink in Nice
Nice is also a city to live through food and aperitifs. The cuisine here is a mix between French tradition and Italian influences, with simple dishes but rich in flavor. Between markets, historic bistros and sea view clubs, the city offers very different experiences depending on the time of day.
Specialties to try
Before entering the premises, it is worth mentioning some typical dishes that represent the identity of the city:
- Socca, A sort of chickpea farinata crispy on the outside and soft on the inside
- Salade niçoise, Fresh and iconic
- Pissaladière, A kind of focaccia with onions and anchovies
- Pan bagnat, Perfect street food to take to the beach
The gastronomic heart: Vieux Nice
In the historic center, the Vieux Nice is the best place to try the local cuisine in an authentic way. Here you can find small restaurants and typical bistros where you can eat traditional dishes without frills.
One of the most iconic places is the Marché du Cours Saleya, where during the day you can find fresh products and in the evening it turns into an area full of restaurants and outdoor tables.
Restaurants with sea view and elegant atmosphere
If instead you want a more scenic experience:
Promenade des Anglais promenade → here are beach clubs and restaurants with terraces on the sea, ideal for lunch or dinner at sunset.
Port area → more modern, with fish restaurants and perfect places for a relaxed dinner overlooking the boats.
Aperitif with sea view
The best time of the day in Nice is definitely the sunset. On the Promenade des Anglais many beach bars and lounges are filled with people for an aperitif with a Mediterranean view.
Rooftop and cocktail bar
- Rooftop hotel in the city center: perfect to see Nice from above with a cocktail in hand. Try the one from Meridien Nice.
- Place Masséna area: more elegant and modern, with well-kept bars and international atmosphere
In the evening the city cames alive but always remains elegant: no excesses, but a lot of relaxed and Mediterranean atmosphere.
