15 best things to do in Nice, France (2025)

Nice is the kind of place that’s equal parts seaside ease and sophisticated city life – the Promenade des Anglais, the market alleys of Vieux-Nice, hilltop views from Colline du Château and a fantastic cluster of small museums.

We spent five days exploring the city (we stayed in a quiet Airbnb in the north-west hills) and came away with a short list of what’s genuinely worth your time – the unmissable sights, practical tips that save time and money, and a few quieter corners most visitors miss.

This guide is written for first-time visitors and repeat travellers who want to pick the best of Nice without the fluff. We’ve also included easy day-trip ideas (Monaco, Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer) and quick, sustainable travel tips so you can enjoy Nice with a smaller footprint.

Read on for a compact, practical plan you can use for a long weekend or a relaxed week by the Mediterranean.

Practical information: what do I need to know before visiting Nice?

How long should you stay in Nice?

For a first-time visit, we recommend staying for at least three to four days. That gives you time for Vieux-Nice, the Promenade des Anglais, one or two museums (Musée Matisse, MAMAC or Marc Chagall) and a relaxed evening or two.

If you can stay longer, add 1- 3 days to accommodate day trips (Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Antibes or Monaco) or slow beach days. Nice is well-connected so it’s easy to explore the region – our guide to the South of France has more ideas on where to go.

Where should you stay in Nice?

Nice is a large city, so stay close to the city centre or the old town. The area around Place Masséna is a great place to start. It’s close to the main station, a short walk from the beach, and right by the bustling Cours Saleya market.

If you prefer something quieter, look for places in the residential areas up on the hills, where you’ll find beautiful views of the blue waters of the Mediterranean. We had a beautiful Airbnb in the north-west hills, and though it took about half an hour to walk up the steep hills to get to it, it was quiet with stunning views of Nice.

Another good idea is to stay near the Promenade des Anglais, the perfect place to enjoy a lovely walk along the waterfront. There are plenty of options from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, many with sea views.

If you’re on a budget, consider staying in the small village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, just a 10-minute train ride away, which is more laidback and has a local feel.

If you want wider regional ideas, see our France travel guide.

How do you get to Nice?

Getting to Nice is easy, thanks to its well-connected international airport, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport.

Tram 2 connects Nice Côte d’Azur Airport with the city centre (Jean Médecin / Port Lympia) and takes about 30 minutes. Single tickets start from €1.70; Lignes d’Azur also sell 24-hour and multi-day passes (useful if you’ll take several tram/bus journeys). We bought a pre-paid card (available from most kiosks and newsagents) which we used to pay for both of us.

Nice’s main train station, Nice-Ville, is well connected to cities like Paris, Marseille, and Milan. Train lines along the French Riviera also make it easy to explore neighbouring towns and villages (with great coastal views along the way). Its right near the centre of Nice so you’ll probably be able to walk from here to your accommodation.

When should you go to Nice?

Nice is a great place to visit year-round, but the best time to go is during the spring or early autumn. The shoulder seasons means fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and still plenty of sunshine.

The summer months can be busy, with a lot of tourists and higher prices. It can also be very hot – too hot for most people.

Winter is mild and quieter, and February brings the Nice Carnival, a major two-week event worth seeing if you like lively street parades and flower battles.

What are the best things to do in Nice?

Nice old town (Vieux Nice) and the Cours Saleya market

With its narrow streets, colourful facades, and lively atmosphere, this area feels like stepping back in time. Wander through the maze of alleys and discover hidden squares, local artisans selling their crafts, and charming cafés serving up good food and rosé wine. Don’t miss the Nice Cathedral, a beautiful place with stunning stained-glass windows and a rich baroque heritage.

Vieux-Nice is home to the famous Cours Saleya markets: the flower and food market runs Tuesday–Sunday (best early morning) and Monday is the antiques/flea market. It’s a great place to start the day and pick up local produce and souvenirs.

Why go? History, culture, and to get lost.
How long? 3 hours.

Place Masséna and Fontaine du Soleil

Place Masséna is the main square of Nice and a popular gathering spot. It is surrounded by beautiful architecture and is lined with palm trees and charming buildings in pastel hues. At its centre, you’ll find the impressive Fontaine du Soleil, featuring a statue of Apollo. This spot is perfect for people-watching, relaxing, and soaking in the atmosphere.

At night, the square comes alive with lights and music. It’s a great starting point for exploring the city, with many of Nice’s main attractions just a short walk away. Or, a great place to end the day – grab a drink and people watch as the lights come on.

Why go? Historical squares and people-watching.
How long? 1 hour.

Castle Hill Park (Colline du Château)

For the best views in Nice, head up to Castle Hill Park, or Colline du Château – one of the best places to go in Nice! This hilltop park offers panoramic views of the city, the port, and the blue waters of the Mediterranean.

The park itself is a lovely place to explore, with olive trees, hidden waterfalls, and the ruins of an old medieval fortress. It was where Nice was founded in the third century BCE, where it was a trading post and then defensive fortification.

You can reach the top by lift or tourist train (these go straight to the summit and won’t stop at the interesting bits along the way), or take one of the paved walking routes if you want to wander and discover small viewpoints. The climb is worth it for the panoramic views. There’s also a small café at the top with coffee and ice creams.

Why go? panoramic views and hilltop parks.
How long? 2 hours.

Villa Masséna Musée

Tucked away on the Promenade des Anglais, the Villa Masséna Musée is a beautiful museum housed in a grand 19th-century villa. Once the winter residence of a noble family, this beautiful villa is surrounded by lush gardens filled with palm trees and olive trees.

The museum showcases the rich history of Nice from the Napoleonic era to the early 20th century. Inside, you’ll find everything from ornate period furnishings to paintings, sculptures, and a fascinating collection of historical artefacts, including items that belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte and Queen Victoria.

The villa itself is a masterpiece, with elegant interiors that tell the story of Nice through period rooms and historical photos. The gardens are small but well-looked after, so good for a wander round. Single admission is around €10; there is also a 4-day Nice museums pass (€15) that covers most municipal museums and is usually the best deal if you plan to visit several sites.

Why go? History, culture, and some nice gardens.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is perhaps the most famous of Nice’s attractions. Stretching along the coastline, this seaside boulevard is perfect for a stroll or a bike ride. With the Mediterranean Sea on one side and luxury hotels on the other, it’s a perfect place to people-watch, catch some sun, or simply enjoy the sea breeze.

Don’t miss the iconic blue chairs along the promenade, where you can sit and take in the views. It’s also a popular spot for cultural events, so keep an eye out for local festivals and performances.

And of course, combine with a stay on one of the many beaches in the bay.

Why go? Beautiful views of the sea, and a breezy stroll.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Nice’s beaches

Nice offers a variety of beaches, from lively public stretches like Castel Plage to private beach clubs along the Promenade des Anglais. Public beaches are free, but can be pebbly, so bring water shoes for comfort. For more luxury, head to a private beach club where you can rent a sunbed and enjoy food and drink service right by the water.

The blue waters of the Mediterranean are perfect for swimming, and there are several water sports activities available, such as paddleboarding and jet skiing. It’s the best way to cool off on a hot summer day!

Why go? Beaches, relaxation, ice cream and water sports.
How long? Full day.

Musée Matisse

The Musée Matisse is dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for many years. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of his work, from paintings to sculptures and personal items that provide insight into his life.

The museum is well set out and curated, and we enjoyed ourselves despite not having a special interest in art (or Matisse).

The museum is set in a 17th-century villa, surrounded by lovely gardens filled with olive trees. It’s a good place to spend a quiet afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tickets cost €12; alternatively a 4-day municipal museum pass (approx. €15) gives access to most city museums – often better value if you plan multiple visits. The museum is next door to some Roman ruins (and a small museum) which are part of the same ticket. Its worth popping into as part of your visit to Musée Matisse.

Why go? Art and Henri Matisse.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Marc Chagall National Museum

Another must-visit for art enthusiasts is the Marc Chagall National Museum. This museum showcases the work of Chagall, who was inspired by the region’s vibrant colours and light. The collection includes 17 large-scale paintings, stained-glass windows, and numerous sketches and sculptures.

The museum also has a lovely outdoor garden and café, making it a peaceful spot to relax after exploring the exhibits.

Tickets cost €8-10. The museum is a national museum rather than run by the City of Nice, so entry isn’t included in the city’s museums pass. It offers free entry for EU residents under 26, and on the first Sunday of the month.

Why go? Art and Marc Chagall.
How long? 1-2 hours.

Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC)

For those with a love of modern art, the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC) is a must-see. Located in the heart of Nice, just a short walk from Place Garibaldi, MAMAC offers a fascinating journey through art from the 1950s to the present day.

The museum’s unique architecture, a striking combination of glass and concrete with rooftop terraces, provides an impressive setting for its diverse collection. Inside, you’ll find an array of works by celebrated artists like Yves Klein, Niki de Saint Phalle, Andy Warhol, and Arman, reflecting a blend of French and American contemporary art movements.

One of the highlights of MAMAC is its extensive collection of Yves Klein’s work, a Nice-born artist known for his vivid blue monochromes. The museum also has a great selection of Pop Art, Nouveau Réalisme, and Minimalism, showcasing the evolution of modern art.

Don’t miss the rooftop terraces, which offer some of the best views of Nice, overlooking the city centre and the surrounding hills. Entry is €15 – it’s the same ticket that will get you into the 11 museums of the City of Nice (including the Matisse Museum). The museum is free on the first Sunday of every month. Visiting during late afternoon hours can be quieter and you can enjoy the rooftop as the sun sets.

heck MAMAC’s website for opening status and ticket details before you go (some exhibitions or renovation periods affect opening hours). The municipal museum pass often covers MAMAC when it’s open

Why go? Modern art and culture. 

How long? 2-3 hours. 

Russian Orthodox Church

One of the most surprising sites in Nice is the Russian Orthodox Church, a striking building with colourful onion domes. Built in the early 20th century for the city’s Russian community, it remains an active place of worship today.

The interior is filled with icons, frescoes, and beautiful stained-glass windows. It’s a unique architectural heritage site and offers a glimpse into a different side of Nice’s history.

Why go? Beautiful architecture.
How long? 1 hour.

Place Garibaldi

Place Garibaldi is one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in Nice, with its yellow buildings and arcades. It’s a great spot to relax at a café, enjoy some good food, and watch the world go by. The square is also home to several historical monuments and is just a short walk from the port.

From here, you can easily explore the nearby streets filled with shops, local artisans, and wine bars. It’s a lively and welcoming spot, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.

Why go? Local culture, good food and historical monuments.
How long? 1 hour.

Avenue Jean Médecin

Avenue Jean Médecin is Nice’s main shopping street, running from Place Masséna to the train station. It’s a bustling area with everything from high-street brands to local boutiques. The street also houses the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, a neo-Gothic church with impressive stained-glass windows.

It’s an excellent place for shopping or to simply enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s an excellent place for shopping or to soak up the city vibe – and if you fancy department-store browsing, Galeries Lafayette is on the route.

Why go? Shopping!
How long? 2-3 hours.

Day trips from Nice

• Èze: A medieval village perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Perfect for a day trip filled with history and natural beauty.
• Monaco: Just a short train ride away, Monaco offers luxury, casinos and the glamour of the Riviera. See our guide on practical money-saving tips when visiting and our round-up of the best places to go in Monaco.
• Antibes: Known for its old town, lovely beaches, and the Picasso Museum, Antibes makes for a delightful day trip.
• Cannes: Famous for its film festival, Cannes offers a mix of luxury, beaches, and great food, all just a short train ride away.
• St. Paul de Vence: A charming hilltop village known for its art galleries and stunning views.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer: A charming coastal town with colourful buildings, a lovely harbour, and quiet beaches, just a short train ride from Nice – ideal for a relaxed day by the Mediterranean Sea.

This page contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links we make a small commission to help run this site, at no cost to you. Making a commission never affects the advice we give - see our content policy.