I can still remember my first time in Nice, almost a decade ago.
My dad and I were visiting and immediately fell in love with the balance of city and beach vibes.
Since then I’ve been back to the riviera multiple times, and Nice for the longest time was my favorite place to base myself out of as a solo traveler.
It’s such a simple city to navigate, and it’s incredibly walkable, with lots of places to see for all budgets, making it a great place to visit on a day trip.
If you’ve only got one day in Nice, this is the perfect base itinerary for first time visitors.
You’ll get a small taste of everything the city offers, with a balance of activities for everyone’s interests.
Skip Ahead
Morning Activities
Morning Cafe
Start your day with a traditional French breakfast at a local café.
Try a croissant or pain au chocolat with a double espresso, which is my go-to breakfast order for a busy day of sightseeing.
Some popular spots include Zeni Coffee, Maison Armand, or Deli Bo Pastry.
Cours Saleya Market Experience
Start your morning at the heart of Nice’s Old Town with a visit to the famous Cours Saleya Market.
You’ll stroll past stands showcasing fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties.
Plus, there’s lots of great local people watching.
One of my favorite things to do is going from stall to to stall to pick up supplies for a little beach picnic.
Oh, and while you’re there, don’t forget to try socca.
It’s a chickpea flour pancake that’s a Niçois favorite, and one of my go-to snacks while shopping.
I love getting one, ideally with extra seasoning, then walking over to the beach to enjoy it, along with my other finds.
Explore Vieux Nice
After the market, wander through the narrow streets of Vieux Nice (Old Town).
This is one of my favorite areas of Nice to wander around, and a historic quarter.
It’s the ultimate cultural hotspot, where the pastel-hued buildings and the scent of fresh bread create an unforgettable morning walk.
You’ll find a maze of charming alleys with small shops selling handcrafted goods and typical Niçois foods.
Visit Nice Cathedral
If you’re into churches, or architecture, it’s easy to stop at the Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate).
This Baroque cathedral is a marvel, with its impressive facade and ornate interior.
As you step inside, its serene ambiance and stunning artworks greets you.
Take your time to appreciate the beauty and history that radiate from this spiritual site in the heart of Old Town.
Cultural Attractions
Musée Matisse
Nestled in Nice’s cool neighborhood of Cimiez, the Musée Matisse is a haven for art enthusiasts.
The museum has an enormous collection of Henri Matisse’s works and is a wonderful way to spend a few hours in Nice.
Plus, it’s housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa surrounded by olive trees, so you’ll be in love before you’re even in the door.
Chagall Museum
A short distance from Musée Matisse, you’ll find the Chagall Museum, officially named the National Museum Marc Chagall Biblical Message.
It holds the largest public collection of Chagall’s paintings, focusing on religious themes.
If you’ve got time and energy to do a second museum, this is a superb choice.
Its impressive vibrantly stained-glass windows illuminate the museum’s interior, making the museum a site in itself.
Lunch and Local Cuisine
Savor Niçoise Cuisine
Niçoise cuisine reflects the colors and vitality of Nice itself.
It mostly features fresh seafood, vegetables, and olive oil. These dishes are all delicious and a must-try during your visit.
Not sure what to order?
Start with salade Niçoise, a vibrant dish composed of tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and green beans.
Don’t miss the chance to taste socca, a crispy chickpea pancake often enjoyed as street food.
Another local specialty, that’s my all-time favorite, is ratatouille. It’s a hearty stew of simmered vegetables perfect for a filling lunch.
Restaurant Recommendations
For an authentic taste, head to Chez Pipo, a venue famous for its socca.
It’s an ideal spot to dive into Niçoise flavors, with simple yet delicious offerings that embody the local cuisine.
Or consider experiencing the casual yet charming ambiance at A Buteghinna, which serves traditional dishes sourced from regional produce.
If you prefer dining with a sea view, Le Bar des Oiseaux near the beach provides an excellent selection of seafood and local wines.
Or, if you make your reservation far enough ahead, go to Le Plongeoir. It’s absolutely iconic and worth checking out. I go every summer!
For a really chic lunch closer to town, head to Hotel Le Negresco. I love sitting on their terrace with oysters and a glass of Chablis or Champagne while people watching.
Afternoon Exploration
Stroll the Promenade des Anglais
As someone who loves walking, The Promenade des Anglais, is one of my favorite things about Nice.
If you haven’t heard of it, here’s what you need to know; it’s Nice’s iconic seaside boulevard, stretching for nearly 7 kilometers.
As you walk, you’ll take in the blue waters of the Mediterranean and the elegant palm trees lining the path.
Along the way you can rent bikes, watch street performers, or settle into one of the many seating areas to watch the world go by.
Beach Time and Beach Clubs
After your stroll, plan on hitting up one of Nice’s pebbled beaches to soak up the afternoon sun.
There are some lovely public beaches, but if you’re only here a day, it’s worth splurging on the full experience.
I love how easy going to a club makes it so easy to grab a cocktail or a light lunch at the club’s restaurant, making you feel you’re extra productive.
These are some popular beach clubs in Nice to check out.
For a touch of luxury, head to Ruhl Plage, where you can rent loungers and parasols for the ultimate private beach experience.
At the iconic Plage Beau Rivage, you can bask in the Mediterranean sun on plush loungers while savoring gourmet cuisine and refreshing cocktails, all set against the backdrop of azure waters and panoramic sea views.
Or, for a more relaxed vibe, head to Castel Plage, nestled at the foot of Castle Hill, is lovely. You’ll enjoy a serene atmosphere, delectable seafood, and impeccable service.
Just remember to book early if you’re visiting the riviera during the summer.
Climb to Colline du Château
End your afternoon with the ascent to Colline du Château for the most stunning panoramic views of Nice.
This is one of my favorite sunset activities while I’m in Nice.
You’ll climb steps or take an elevator to see the old ruins, a waterfall, and the entire Bay of Angels laid out below you.
It’s the perfect spot to capture photos of the city’s red-tiled roofs against the backdrop of the azure sea.
And if you’re visiting with your partner, it’s a fantastic spot for a bit of romance.
Evening Experiences
Dinner with a View
Nice’s culinary scene is as spectacular as its sunsets.
Depending on your budget, there’s lots of options.
For upscale, there’s Le Chantecler, inside Le Negresco, offers refined French cuisine and boasts an elegant interior.
If you prefer al fresco dining, La Terrasse on the top floor of Hotel Le Méridien provides panoramic vistas of the sea.
Another budget friendly gem is Chez Pipo, known for its traditional Socca and relaxed ambience, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Nice can be so much fun at night, especially if you know where to go.
A lot of people start their evenings, especially in the summer, with pizza and wine on the beach, followed by drinks at a nearby bar.
Since I’m normally solo, I like to stroll down to Place Massena, the heartbeat of Nice at night, where there’s lots of popular spots to make friends while grabbing a drink.
You’ll truly find a variety of bars and clubs, each offering a piece of Nice’s diverse nightlife.
Whether it’s live music, a quiet corner for a drink, or a dance floor to lose yourself in, Nice caters to all your evening desires.
These are a few bars and lounges I like hitting up when I’m in Nice at night.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Boutiques and Unique Finds
Anytime I’m living in Antibes and need to do some serious shopping, I hop on the train to Nice and stroll down Avenue Jean Médecin.
It’s the major shopping street in Nice, with a mix of high-street brands and chic boutiques.
There’s also a wonderful Galeries Lafayette, which is a French department store that houses designer brands and the latest fashion trends.
I always find at least or two things there that I’m dying to have.
Don’t forget to wander through smaller side streets, too. They often hide one-of-a-kind boutiques offering items you won’t find anywhere else.
I still search for a boutique I stumbled upon in Old Town in 2021. I bought the best dress, and want nothing more than to go back to buy another.
Motto of the story, if you see a shop you love on a sidestreet, write the name down, or at the very least, take a photo of the front.
Local Artisan Crafts
The Cours Saleya Market is a must-visit for authentic, handmade local souvenirs.
It’s open daily, and the perfect spot to grab all the famous souvenirs like lavender products and perfumes.
Another local spot that I’m obsessed with is Maison Auer. This chocolate shop is an absolute jewel box and has an incredible history of making chocolates since 1820.
They even count Queen Victoria as an old customer!
Don’t miss trying their famous chocolate covered oranges. I also really like their assorted boxes.
Take your time walking around the store. It’s truly one of the prettiest shops around.
Planning Your Day in Nice
Arrival and Transportation
When you land in Nice, you’ve got a few options for getting into the city.
If you want to move quickly, hop in a Uber.
For anyone on a budget, don’t stress, there’s a little tram right from the airport into the city center.
Head to my YouTube channel to watch me take it so you can see what it’s like, or check out this article for full instructions.
Nice’s tram system is reliable and can take you to major spots efficiently.
If you’re taking a day trip to Nice from another nearby place in the South of France, then just head to one of Nice’s train stations (Nice-Ville is the main one).
The city is also super walkable, which is my favorite way to get around the French Riviera.
Best Time to Visit
Over the last decade of visiting the French Riviera frequently, I’ve experienced pretty much every season in Nice.
My ideal time to visit the South of France, including Nice, is during the shoulder seasons, April to June or September to October.
November and December are also really fun with all the holiday markets.
As well as February, when Carnival happens.
These months, while chillier, offer fewer tourists letting you enjoy the city more comfortably.
Summer, while lovely, is the peak tourist season and can get hot besides having to deal with higher prices and more crowds.
FAQs
What are the top attractions to see in Nice if I only have one day?
If you’ve only got one day in Nice, don’t miss a visit to the picturesque Old Town with its bustling markets and vibrant lanes.
Hit up the Cours Saleya for some socca.
Then take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, and see the breathtaking views from Castle Hill.
Finish with some pizza and wine on the beach at sunset, or treat yourself to a delicious sit down meal somewhere.
How can I make the most of a short stay when disembarking from a cruise ship in Nice?
Maximize a short visit by focusing on central Nice.
Head straight to the Old Town, explore the flower market at Cours Saleya, while grabbing some socca, and heading to enjoy a quick swim at the beach.
Then after drying off in the sunshine, take a walk up Colline du Château.
What unique or lesser-known activities can I find in Nice for a half-day visit?
For a unique half-day experience, explore the local art scene by visiting a museum, or delving into the local culinary culture with a food tour.
Or, if you want to be super low key, book a lunch reservation at the iconic Le Plongeior. It’s truly a unique dining experiance that feels very “South of France”.
For a more cheap and chic option, grab pizza or some local cheeses and baguettes and wine and make a little picnic on the beach.
For a day trip, is it practical to visit both Nice and Cannes in a single day?
While ambitious, a one-day visit to Nice and Cannes is possible, but I wouldn’t recommend it; there’s too much to see in both cities, and you’d be incredibly rushed.
If you’re set on it, it requires early starts and careful planning to appreciate everything from Nice’s morning markets to Cannes’ chic boulevard, La Croisette, and the quaint Le Suquet district.
How can I experience the essence of Nice through walking, and what are the must-visit spots?
Walking is one of the best ways to soak in Nice’s essence, and my all-time favorite mode of transportation.
Be sure not to miss the Promenade des Anglais, Place Masséna, and Cours Saleya during your exploration.
And obviously stopping for a gelato or two is a must!
Notably, a stroll in the park at Promenade du Paillon offers a serene escape with artistic installations.
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