Nice has a rosy always-on-holiday glow, thanks to its peach-coloured façades, electric blue waters and gorgeous weather. Slow right down and enjoy!
Considered the capital of the French Riviera, this coastal city is home to world-class art museums, bustling markets and pretty hiking trails.
Book flights to Nice today
Airlines flying to Nice
- British Airways
Getting Around
Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport is five miles (3km) from Vieux-Nice, the city's historic centre. Express buses make frequent trips into central Nice and taxis are available (though pricey) so local bus is the cheapest option. The city has a simple tram and bus system, plus a Vélo Bleu bicycle-share programme with 100+ stations.
Language
French
Currency
Euro
Time Difference
1 hr ahead of GMT
Neighbourhoods To See
Vieux-Nice: for dining and sightseeing
The atmospheric old town has pastel façades, winding alleyways, open piazzas and a lively open-air market.
Much is pedestrianised, so sightseeing on foot is a breeze, taking in iconic architecture, quality restaurants and charming terraced cafés.
Promenade des Anglais: for strolling and sunbathing
The four-mile Promenade des Anglais runs alongside the bay, letting locals and visitors stroll, bike and rollerblade beside the seaside. Look out for the famous Palais de la Méditerranée, Negresco Hotel and Belle Époque Musée Massena.
Cimiez: for museum-hopping
Home to hillside villas and some of the Riviera’s best art museums, including Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall. The Jardin de Cimiez park is filled with olive trees and picnic spots, and 16th-century Notre Dame de Cimiez monastery offers peace away from the crowds.
Essential Sights
Promenade des Anglais
Set alongside the scenic Baie des Anges, this four-mile paved boulevard boasts the most iconic vista in Nice.
Musée Matisse
Henri Matisse spent nearly 40 years in Nice. See many of his works here, alongside photographs and objects from his time on the Riviera.
Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC)
Browse displays of European and American works from the 1950s to the present and visit the rooftop terrace for picture-perfect views.
Castle Hill
Only the 16th-century tower from the original Colline du Chateau still stands, but the incredible views are well worth the climb.
Musée Marc Chagall
Chagall himself curated this impressive collection of his works, showcasing his colourful, dreamlike style.
Food And Drink
Gastronomic Nice has much more to offer than salade niçoise! For authentic Provençal food, head to the farmer’s market to stock up on local cheese, fruit, olives and baguettes. Nice is also a place to find world-class haute cuisine, with a handful of Michelin stars scattered throughout the old city.
Events
FEBRUARY | Nice Carnival
This vibrant celebration brings over-the-top parades, flower-embellished floats and fabulous parties.
MAY | Fêtes de Mai
Locals and tourists come together for live performances and local food and wine in lovely Cimiez gardens.
MAY | The Nice Open
The Open de Nice Cote d'Azur has drawn international tennis players and fans since the 1970s.
JUNE | Fête de la Musique
This lively celebration of all music genres sees musicians and DJ in bars and restaurants across Vieux-Nice.
JULY | Nice Jazz Festival
Since 1948 this festival has welcomed a range of jazz superstars, including legendary Louis Armstrong.