Is Nice worth visiting? Yes, absolutely. Nice was one of those cities that won me over almost immediately. I loved being able to spend the morning exploring historic streets and the afternoon walking along the seafront. There is something about the mix of Mediterranean views, local markets, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle that makes it easy to enjoy. It felt like the kind of place where you could stay much longer than planned.
Nice is one of the most popular destinations in France and sits on the famous French Riviera. Known for its beautiful coastline, colourful Old Town, lively markets, and sunny climate, it attracts visitors from around the world. The city also makes a great base for exploring nearby destinations such as Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why Nice is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re interested in beaches, culture, food, or simply enjoying the South of France, keep reading to discover the many reasons why Nice is worth visiting.
Table of Contents
Top Reasons You Should Visit Nice
1. A Stunning Location on the French Riviera
Nice is perfectly situated on the Côte d’Azur, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, a mild climate, and easy access to some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in Europe. The city is framed by the turquoise waters of the Baie des Anges on one side and rolling hills on the other, making it a paradise for travelers who love the combination of urban charm and natural beauty.
I arrived in Nice and was immediately struck by how picturesque it was. Whether walking along the Promenade des Anglais or admiring the view from Castle Hill, the city’s setting is simply stunning. The mix of sea, mountains, and elegant architecture creates a postcard-perfect atmosphere that makes every moment feel special.
2. A Beautiful Waterfront and the Famous Promenade des Anglais
One of Nice’s most iconic features is the Promenade des Anglais, a long, scenic walkway that stretches for about seven kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. Lined with palm trees, stylish cafés, and luxury hotels, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or simply relaxing while watching the waves.
I spent an afternoon walking along the promenade, stopping for a coffee at one of the seafront cafés. The blue waters, the fresh sea breeze, and the relaxed atmosphere made it easy to understand why so many artists and writers have fallen in love with Nice. Whether you’re people-watching, cycling, or just enjoying the view, the Promenade des Anglais is one of the city’s best spots.
3. The Vibrant and Colourful Old Town (Vieux Nice)
Nice’s Old Town is a lively maze of narrow, winding streets filled with pastel-colored buildings, charming cafés, and bustling markets. This area has a distinct Italian influence, a reminder of Nice’s history before becoming part of France in 1860. The Old Town is home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and shops in the city, making it the perfect place to explore both day and night.
I loved getting lost in Vieux Nice, discovering hidden squares and little artisan shops selling everything from handmade soaps to local spices. One of my favorite stops was the Cours Saleya market, where fresh flowers, cheeses, and Provençal specialties filled the air with delicious scents. The Old Town’s lively yet intimate atmosphere makes it a must-visit part of Nice.
4. A Food Lover’s Paradise with Amazing Niçoise Cuisine
Nice has a fantastic culinary scene that blends French and Mediterranean influences, offering everything from fine dining to casual street food. The city is famous for its local dishes, including salade niçoise, socca (a delicious chickpea pancake), and ratatouille. Fresh seafood is also a highlight, with many restaurants serving fish straight from the Mediterranean.
I tried socca at a small stall in the Old Town, and it was incredible—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly seasoned. Later, I had a classic salade niçoise at a seaside restaurant, and the combination of fresh vegetables, tuna, and anchovies was a perfect match for the warm, sunny weather. Whether you’re looking for Michelin-starred restaurants or local street food, Nice has something for every taste.
5. Spectacular Views from Castle Hill
For the best panoramic view of Nice, a visit to Castle Hill is essential. This hilltop park offers breathtaking views of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding hills. Although the original castle no longer stands, the area has been transformed into a beautiful green space with waterfalls, walking trails, and historic ruins.
I took the staircase up to Castle Hill just before sunset, and the view over the Old Town and the bay was absolutely stunning. The changing colors of the sky reflecting on the sea made for one of the most memorable moments of my trip. There’s also a free elevator for those who don’t want to make the climb, but either way, the view is worth the effort.
6. A Perfect Base for Exploring the French Riviera
Nice’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring other famous destinations along the French Riviera. With excellent train and bus connections, it’s easy to take day trips to glamorous cities like Monaco, Cannes, or Antibes, as well as charming villages like Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
I took a quick train ride to Monaco and spent the day exploring its luxury casinos, stunning harbor, and the Prince’s Palace. Another day, I visited Èze, a medieval hilltop village with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Having Nice as a home base made it incredibly convenient to explore the entire Côte d’Azur without constantly changing accommodations.
7. Fantastic Weather Almost Year-Round
Nice enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, sunny summers, making it a great destination at any time of the year. The city gets around 300 days of sunshine annually, so visitors can expect pleasant weather for most of their trip. Even in the winter months, temperatures rarely drop below 10°C, making it one of the best warm-weather getaways in Europe.
I visited in September, and the weather was perfect—not too hot, but still warm enough for swimming in the sea. Even in December, you can sit outside at cafés without needing a heavy coat. If you want to escape cold, grey winters elsewhere in Europe, Nice offers a sunny and pleasant alternative.
8. A Rich Artistic and Cultural Heritage
Nice has long been a favorite destination for artists, writers, and musicians, and its artistic legacy can be seen in its excellent museums and galleries. The Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum both showcase stunning works from these legendary painters, while the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art offers a great collection of 20th-century and contemporary art.
I spent a morning at the Matisse Museum, which is set in a beautiful villa surrounded by gardens. Seeing Matisse’s bright, expressive paintings in the place where he lived and worked added a special depth to the experience. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious about the city’s creative history, Nice’s museums are well worth a visit.
9. A Relaxed and Laid-Back Atmosphere
Unlike Paris or other big French cities, Nice has a more relaxed pace of life. People take their time enjoying meals, sipping coffee at outdoor terraces, and strolling along the waterfront. The combination of a warm climate, stunning scenery, and friendly locals creates a laid-back vibe that makes Nice a perfect place to unwind.
I found myself naturally slowing down in Nice—starting my mornings with a leisurely coffee, taking unplanned detours through quiet streets, and spending afternoons just watching the sea. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of life without feeling rushed.
10. A City That Feels Both French and Italian
Nice has a unique cultural identity that blends French and Italian influences. Before becoming part of France in the 19th century, the city belonged to the Kingdom of Sardinia, and you can still see traces of its Italian heritage in the architecture, food, and even the local dialect.
I noticed the Italian influence everywhere—from the colorful buildings that reminded me of Liguria to the lively, market-style food culture in the Old Town. Even the way people greeted each other felt slightly different from other parts of France. This fusion of cultures gives Nice a special charm that sets it apart from other French cities.
Travel Tips for Visiting Nice
What to Do in Nice
Nice is one of those places where it’s easy to understand why people keep coming back. Between the Mediterranean coastline, colourful old town, and easy access to the French Riviera, I never found myself short of things to do. What I liked most was how relaxed the city felt despite being one of France’s most famous destinations.
- Take a Day Trip to Monaco and Monte Carlo – This was my favourite experience because you get to see another country, visit famous landmarks, and enjoy some incredible coastal scenery in a single day.
- Join a French Riviera Boat Cruise – Seeing the coastline from the water gave me a completely different perspective of the Riviera and some amazing views.
- Explore the Old Town with a Guided Walking Tour – I always enjoy learning about a city’s history from a local guide, and Nice’s Old Town is full of stories and hidden corners.
- Visit Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild – I loved this elegant villa because the gardens and sea views are some of the best on the French Riviera.
- Take a Day Trip to Èze, Monaco, and Cannes – This is one of the best ways to see several famous Riviera destinations without worrying about transport.
- Join a Food Tour of Nice – Nice has some fantastic local dishes, and this was a great way to discover food I probably wouldn’t have ordered on my own.
When to Visit Nice
I think the best times to visit Nice are May, June, September, and October. The weather is warm, the sea is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer months. July and August are great if your main goal is beach time, but accommodation prices are higher and the city is much busier. Winter is surprisingly mild and can be a good option if you want to avoid crowds. I visited in September and thought it was the perfect time. The weather felt like summer, but the city was much more relaxed.
How to Get to Nice
Most visitors arrive through Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is located only about 7 kilometres from the city centre. Airlines such as Air France, British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Lufthansa, KLM, and many others operate regular flights here. The airport is connected to the city by tram, which I found very easy to use. Nice is also well connected by train to Monaco, Cannes, Marseille, and other cities along the French Riviera. Personally, I think flying into Nice and taking the tram into the centre is the most convenient option.
Where to Stay in Nice
- Hotel Negresco – Located on the Promenade des Anglais, this iconic luxury hotel is one of the most famous places to stay on the French Riviera.
- Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée – Situated along the seafront, this upscale hotel offers fantastic views and a great location.
- Hotel La Pérouse Nice – Located near Castle Hill, this boutique hotel combines sea views with easy access to the Old Town.
- Hôtel Apollinaire Nice – Situated in the city centre, this stylish hotel offers a good balance of comfort, location, and value.
- Hôtel Byakko Nice Centre – Located close to the train station, this affordable hotel is a good choice for travellers planning day trips around the Riviera.
- Villa Saint Exupéry Beach Hostel – One of the best budget-friendly places to stay in Nice, this hostel offers a central location and a lively atmosphere.
Getting Around Nice
Nice is very easy to get around. The city centre, Old Town, and Promenade des Anglais are all highly walkable. Nice also has an excellent tram network that connects the airport, city centre, and several suburbs. Trains are useful for visiting nearby places such as Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, and Menton. Tickets can be purchased through local transport apps and station machines. Personally, I spent most of my time walking and using the trains. The regional rail network makes exploring the French Riviera incredibly easy.
How Long to Spend in Nice
I think four days is the perfect amount of time for Nice. Two days gives you enough time to explore the city itself, enjoy the beach, and wander through the Old Town. With three or four days, you can add day trips to Monaco, Cannes, Èze, or Antibes. If you want to explore more of the French Riviera, you could easily stay a week. Personally, I would recommend at least four days because some of the best experiences are found both in Nice and in the beautiful towns nearby.
Conclusion
So, is Nice worth visiting? Without a doubt. From its stunning Mediterranean coastline and charming Old Town to its excellent food, local markets, and easy access to the French Riviera, there are plenty of reasons to spend time here. Nice offers a great mix of relaxation, culture, and sightseeing that appeals to many types of travellers. If you’re planning a trip to France and want to experience one of the country’s most famous coastal destinations, Nice deserves a place near the top of your itinerary.