nice france walking tour map

Easy Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nice

Despite Nice’s turbulent history, it is a very peaceful place to visit where you can spend an entire day hanging out by the seaside or strolling through the Vieux Nice . Its mild climate, clean air, and soft light have attracted international painters, writers, poets, and local and international upper class since the 18 th century. Today if you are looking for a wonderful stroll through the old town experience with open-air markets, great food, and entertainment Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, is the place to be.

This post provides a detailed directions for a self-guided walking tour that encompasses the old town, the port, the castle hill, and the Promenade des Anglais. I would recommend allocating a minimum of 2 hours plus lunch, but it is completely depended on the stops one makes.

TIP: Promenade des Anglais name comes from English aristocrats who visited Nice in the 18 th century to enjoy the mild climate and long walks by the water. Promenade des Anglais means Walkway of the English.

HISTORY OF NICE

Originally founded by Greeks and with its location quickly became one of the busiest trading ports. In the 7 th century, Nice joined the Genoese League and has been in some form part of Italy’s history until about the 13 th century.

For most of the 13 th and 14 th centuries, it was ruled by the Counts of Provence until it placed itself under the protection of the Count of Savoy in 1388. The turmoil of ownership continued until 1860 when it officially became French Territory.

Its Provençal and Italian influence is noticeable to this day. It can be seen in the buildings, churches, old town, and its cuisine.

SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Start this self-guided walking tour in one of the oldest gardens in Nice and lovely green space between the Promenade des Anglais and Place Masséna, Jardin Albert 1er . The garden houses many palm trees, roses, ponds, and fountains and has an open-air theater during the summer months.

From the Jardin Albert 1er take a short stroll to the Fountain of the Sun in the Place Masséna . As controversial as Apollo’s statue may be with the locals, it is a towering presence in the square and one of the most admired by the tourists in the old city.

Continue with the self-guided walking tour through the Vieux Nice (Old Nice) and make your way over to the Place Piere Gautier. The square where Palais des Rois Sardes is located. This historic monument has a long history stretching back to the 1600s housing royalty and nobility of Europe. And most recently has been used to house dignitaries for EU summits.

Another popular square in the old town is Place Rossetti , where Cathedral Saint-Réparate de Nice is located and famous Fenocchio ice-cream. Fenocchio is famous for offering unusual ice-cream flavors such as green apple, beer, Coca-Cola, mojito, and chewing gum. But oh, so delicious!

The next stop on the self-guided walking tour is Course Saleya , a bustling open-air market in the old town worth a visit for produce and flowers. From here you can walk over to Promenade du Paillon to visit the statue of David in front of the Nice Theater and not far from the theater visit the Museum of Contemporary Arts.

After the museum, you can find your way to one of the largest squares in Nice Place Garibaldi and shortly after take a walk to the famous Chez Pipo . Local icon for traditional socca. Socca is almost like a pancake made from chickpea flour. It is one of the simplest, yet very flavorful dishes we have ever tried and served with Rosé on a sweltering summer day is a perfection!

From Chez Pipo continue the self-guided walking tour by heading over to Port Lympia passing Notre-Dame du Port neoclassical church. Walking by the port you will see some very luxurious yachts, and this is where you can take a ferry to Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily.

At one corner of the hill that divides the old town and the port is the War Memorial for those who have died during World War I and on the other side of the divide is the #ILoveNICE selfie spot. Couldn’t help but notice this kind of ironic symbolism and difference of priorities of the then and now.

If looking at the #ILoveNice selfie spot behind you is the way to Castle Hill and you can spend hours in this park. Hiking all the way up to Castle Hill and then on the other side to the scenic spot of the Port. Also, don’t forget to visit the waterfall. The views from the hill are stunning and is a perfect spot for a sunset.

For those that are not interested in hiking all the way up there is an elevator, right below the stairs, that can take you up there. Oh, and by the way, there is no castle up there. It used to be a military citadel that was destroyed in the 1700s. It is just called Castle Hill.

After exploring the beauty of Castle Hill, you can finish your self-guided tour with a leisurely stroll by the Bay of Angles on Promenade des Anglais.

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW

Nice surprisingly has a lot of churches and chapels in the old town and some of them have exquisite artwork inside like Cathedral Sainte-Réparate or Chapelle de la Miséricorde. There are also a lot of art galleries and museums you can get lost in. And just walking around the Vieux Nice feels like stepping back in time and options of where to go and what to see are endless.

Even though this guide is called a self-guided walking tour in Nice most of this can be done on the bicycle as well. Velo Bleu are self-service sharing bikes with multiple stations throughout the city. However, the condition of the bikes and the stations was not the best.

For better quality, there are some other bike rental places such as Roller Station right on Promenade des Anglais.

Utilizing the tramway that runs east and west, from the airport to the port, can help cut some of the walking during the tour as well. It is very convenient, inexpensive, and easy to use. The solo ticket is €1.50, and tickets cannot be purchased on the tram.

RESTAURANTS WORTH CHECKING OUT

Nice has an abundance of restaurants and most of them are very good, below are the few we have enjoyed.

Chez Pipo – Local restaurant with traditional socca Le Bistrot du Port – Excellent Bouillabaisse soup and other local dishes Daki-Daïa – Mediterranean style, family-owned restaurant with a frequently updated menu and wine list Dehli Bheli – Delicious Indian food in the old town Fennochio – Ice Cream

Enjoy your time in Nice, it is a beautiful city on the water with an amazing history.

Other helpful posts… Ultimate Multi-Day TMB Hike Italy, Slovenia, Croatia – 15 Day Adventure Filled Itinerary Tips for Renting a Car in Europe Epic Guide to 2 Weeks in Croatia – For Wine Lovers

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Nice in 1 day – Walking tour + route map

You go on weekends, holidays in Provence , on a honeymoon on the French Riviera and want to visit Nice in 1 day? Well, if you want to know how to discover the must-see attractions of Nice in 1 day, here is a walking tour to discover the most beautiful places in Nice!

In fact, this walking route (see map below) gives the opportunity to make a loop around the most beautiful monuments of Nice but at a pace that allows time to enjoy the atmosphere and relaxing breaks.

How to visit Nice in 1 day?

To visit Nice in 1 day, you can:

• Book a private tour with a guide
• Discover Nice by tourist bus
• Take a tour of Nice by Segway
• or tour Nice on foot on your own at your own pace (see my tour below).

Nice in 1 day - My must-see list

There are many themed tours for visit Nice on foot (see on the official website of the Tourist Office), but the one that I am offering you here only brings together the essentials of Nice, that is to say only the sites which seem to me the most interesting to visit in 1 day.

To fully enjoy a leisurely walk, here is the list of these essentials that I have planned for my Nice in 1 day tour:

• The promenade des Anglais
• The Mediterranean Palace
• The Negresco
• The Masséna Museum and its garden
• Saint-Pierre d'Arène church
• The Alsace-Lorraine garden
• The Place Masséna
• The Cours Saleya
• Bellanda Tower
• The Castle Hill
• The old town of Nice

Nice in 1 day - Map of the must-see itinerary

Click on "More options" in the map to follow the GPS

Nice in 1 day - Visits on my itinerary

Nice walking tour - promenade des anglais.

My tour starts with the most famous address in Nice. The Promenade des Anglais dates from 1822 and was made thanks to Pastor Lewis Way. This one had launched a subscription near the rich English of Nice in order to help the niçois without work by making them build a road 2 m wide from Paillon to rue Meyerbeer.

Nice walking tour – Palais de la Méditerranée

Dating from 1929, the Mediterranean Palace was the 3rd major historic casino in Nice after the Municipal Casino and the Casino de la Jetée-Promenade. Today, it is a must in Nice for its listed facade and its Art Deco architecture.

Nice walking tour - Le Négresco

Perhaps as well known throughout the world as the Promenade des Anglais, the Negresco is a magnificent palace dating from 1912. Completely renovated in 1957, their new directors, the Augier couple, give the Negresco all its prestige and its international fame of yesteryear. .

Nice walking tour - Masséna museum and its garden

The Masséna museum is housed in a superb Belle Époque villa from 1878. This museum tells the story of Nice from the 19th century to the end of the 30s. It houses emblematic works such as Napoleon's death mask or Josephine's diadem.

Nice walking route - Alsace-Lorraine garden

This beautiful park, which dates from 1885, is located in the heart of Nice and covers one hectare.

Nice itinerary on foot – Place Masséna

Too beautiful, too elegant, too colorful… I love this square with its red facades and its arcades. Located in the center of the city, it is a major gathering place for the Nice people and the famous Nice Carnival.

Continuing towards the circuit in the direction of Cours Saleya, do not miss to admire the facade of the Nice opera house .

Nice itinerary on foot – Cours Saleya

Cours Saleya is the main pedestrian street in Old Nice. This esplanade goes from the bottom of the castle hill to the area around the opera. It is a very lively and lively place in Nice with many cafes and restaurants. This is where you will find the famous Nice flower market!

After the Marine Gallery, you will find 2 covered passages that lead to the beach.

You will have to walk along the Quai des Etats-Unis to a small square. After crossing the rue des Ponchettes, you will find stairs (Montée Lesage) to go to the hill of the Castle. The less courageous can take an elevator to go up to the Castle.

Nice itinerary on foot – Bellanda Tower

The Bellanda tower is located on the castle hill. From here, you will have a panoramic view over all of Nice and the Baie des Anges.

Nice itinerary on foot – Colline du Château

Built in the 17th century, the citadel encircled the entire city. By the winding stairs, you will climb to a waterfall and cross the magnificent 19-hectare park from where you will have a view overlooking the city.

Nice itinerary on foot – Old Nice

To end this circuit, I suggest you take a walk and even get lost in the old Nice to soak up the atmosphere of the streets and the people of Nice.

Old Nice is the oldest part of the city of Nice but also one of the liveliest. With its charming little streets, its colorful facades, its numerous shops (sale of olives, spices, flowers, Provençal fabrics, souvenirs), old Nice attracts tourists as much as artists. At night, that's when you have to go out. Indeed, its narrow streets are dotted with cafes and small restaurants where you can taste Nice culinary specialties.

Weekend in Nice - Recommended hotel

For a weekend or a little stay in Nice , I advise you to check the district you are going to choose. Indeed, there are places not recommended to tourists: See neighborhoods to avoid in Nice .

I therefore recommend that you take a hotel well located in the city center for more safety and not to waste time in transport.

My good tip is the Mercure Nice Marché aux fleurs. This hotel is ideally located on the Promenade des Anglais, very close to the Flower Market and convenient for visiting old Nice. In addition, parking lots are located near the hotel. In short, an ideal location at an unbeatable price for Nice!

More info about this hotel in Nice

And to continue the city tours of South of France , here is: Marseille in 2 days ou Toulouse in 2 days

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Free walking tour near Nice

Others cities to visit after nice, where are you traveling to.

A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nice, France

Situated along the French Riviera on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s easy to fall in love with Nice.

This self-guided walking tour is perfect for an overview of the city’s most iconic sights and can be completed in just a couple of hours. I’ve included optional add-ons at the end for those with more time, and of course whenever your schedule allows I always encourage lots of cafe hopping!

Keep scrolling for your self-guided walking tour of Nice, France.

Place Masséna

Place Masséna is a picturesque square with pink buildings, black and white checkered tiles, the beautiful Fontaine du Soleil (Sun Fountain), and iconic light post sculptures by Jaume Plensa.

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Located in between two busy streets with a tramway running through, green spaces on either side, the Mediterranean just a short walk away, and the popular shopping street Avenue Jean Médecin leading north from the square, there’s no shortage of activity at this popular city landmark.

Place Masséna is also a straight shot from the city’s main train station, located a 15-minute walk up the Avenue Jean Médecin.

Tour de l’Horloge | 1 Place du Palais de Justice

Heading southeast into the city’s Vieille Ville , or Old City, you’ll find the two-toned pink Tour de l’Horloge , or Clock Tower, overlooking the Place du Palais de Justice.

A tower was first built in this spot in 1423, but was subsequently destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, with the current structure dating to 1718.

Les Delices de Candice | 17 Rue de la Préfecture

There are many picturesque storefronts as you continue east along the Rue de la Préfecture (Carriera dou Gouvernou in Niçois, the local dialect), but this one dedicated to parapluies , or umbrellas, was my favorite.

Place Rossetti

Turn left just after Les Delices de Candice and head along the Rue Colonna d’Istria to find Place Rossetti.

Considered by many to be the heart of the old city, Place Rossetti is the home of the Cathédral Sainte Réparate de Nice, dating back to the 17th century and classified as a French national monument since 1906. It’s free to step inside to see the ornate interior.

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Across the square, the Fenocchio family has been dishing up nearly 100 flavors of ice cream and sorbet since 1966. Choose from more classic options like Hazelnut, Pistachio, and Coffee or try something new like Speculoos, Chocolate Chili, Avocado, or Spice Bread.

Ice cream in hand, continue past Fenocchio and turn left onto Rue Droite, one of the most beautiful streets in Old Nice. A favorite storefront of mine was the Cordonnerie du Vieux Nice at number 7.

Ascenseur du Château | 1 Rue des Ponchettes

Double back along the Rue Droite or turn right onto Rue Rossetti followed by a right onto Rue de la Condamine to head toward the water. This will lead you to the Ascenseur du Château , or Castle Elevator, for a free lift to the top of Castle Hill. There are also stairs if you’re up for it.

This green space offers multiple viewpoints over the old city, the coastline, and Port Lympia, Nice’s main port with a variety of watercraft ranging from modest sailboats to megayachts with helipads.

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Don’t miss the Point de Vue Colline du Château, the Point de Vue Port Lympia, and the Tour Bellanda (Bellanda Tower). There’s also a man-made waterfall, castle ruins, a playground, a café, and public toilets.

Promenade des Anglais

Next, head back down the elevator for a stroll along the city’s famous Promenade des Anglais , or English Walkway. The path is named for members of the English aristocracy who vacationed in Nice and helped fund its construction in the early 19th century.

The promenade continues along the water for almost four and a half miles, extending from the Quai des États-Unis in the East all the way to the Nice Airport in the West.

Home to public and private beaches, restaurants, a bike path, and wide open paved spaces with plenty of room for walking and skating, it’s the perfect place to enjoy uninterrupted views over the Baie des Anges , or Bay of Angels.

Marché Aux Fleurs | Cours Saleya

Take a quick detour from the Promenade to visit the markets along the Cours Saleya. Multiple markets call this street home, the most popular being the Marché aux Fleurs (Flower Market) held Tuesday through Sunday.

While there are fruit and vegetable stands here as well, the name dates back to the late 19th century, when a thriving flower market began here. Local growers sold flowers to wholesalers who would then hop on the train and resell them throughout the continent.

If you’d like to visit the Marché aux Fleurs, plan on heading there during the first part of the day. Many sites have the hours as 6 am through 5:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday and 6 am through 1:30 pm Sunday, but when we visited around 3:30 pm on a Tuesday there were hardly any vendors left. The Google listing shows 9 am to 1 pm.

If you have any intel on the market’s current hours, please let me know in the Comments!

Opéra de Nice | 4-6 Rue Saint-François de Paule

Home to the Nice Philharmonic Orchestra, the Ballet Nice Méditerrannée, and musical theater in addition to the opera, the current structure was built in the 1880s (former versions having been demolished and destroyed by fire) and can be seen from the Rue Saint-François de Paule or from the Quai des États-Unis (the Eastern section of the Promenade des Anglais).

If you’re walking along the Quai, you’ll know you’ve hit the Opéra when you see a 4-foot-tall replica of the Statue of Liberty.

Jardin Albert 1er and Promenade du Paillon

This large park is home to an outdoor theater, a two-story carousel, sculptures, fountains, and the start of the Promenade du Paillon. The Promenade du Paillon is a green corridor connecting the Promenade des Anglais to the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, passing directly through Place Masséna (where we started our walk).

What used to be a congested area with a bus station and parking garage was transformed over three years into a lush, 30-acre oasis in the middle of the city.

One of the most celebrated features of the Promenade is the Fontaine Miroir d’Eau , a giant “water mirror” with misting jets. There are also children’s play areas, benches, public toilets, and tens of thousands of plants filling out the space.

Your Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nice, France: The Stats

Starting Point and Ending Point: Place Masséna (Although since the walk is a loop, you can start and end at any point!)

Distance: ~2.5 kilometers or 1.5 miles

Terrain: Largely flat

Optional Add-Ons

While this short route has a lot to offer with multiple viewpoints, city squares, picturesque streets, delicious gelato, a walk along the Mediterranean, and lush green spaces – to name a few! – there’s so much more to see if you have the time. Here are a few ideas.

• Walk further west along the Promenade des Anglais to admire the historic Hotel Negresco.
• Enjoy some retail therapy along the Avenue du Jean Médecin, heading north off of Place Masséna.
• Visit a museum – Nice has a lot to choose from! Musée National Marc Chagall , Musée Matisse , the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice, and the Musée Massena are just a handful of options.
• Take a 25-minute walk from Place Masséna to the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral and French national monument built between 1903 and 1912.
• Head to the beach for some sunbathing and swimming – just be ready for beaches that are rocky instead of sandy.
• Use Nice as a convenient jump-off point for countless day trips, including Saint-Paul de Vence, Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Antibes , and Monaco.

Use this map to guide your walk.

Have you ever been to Nice? If not, is it on your list? Let me know in the Comments!

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About Caity Pfohl

Caity is a travel junkie who loves to write. She recently reached her goal of visiting thirty countries before she turned thirty and has no plans of stowing her passport anytime soon.

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Margo Lestz – The Curious Rambler

Bringing History to Life

Walking Tour of the Old Town of Nice, France

From place massena to place garibaldi.

While in Nice, I decided to put together a little walking tour of the Old Town. It’s a route that you can follow to see most of the historic sites (with lots of shops and restaurants along the way).

Nice’s Old Town is where it all started. At one time this was the entire city, and that’s why so much of Nice’s history is concentrated in this small area.

The walking tour is designed to go along with my book, Curious Histories of Nice, France, but, of course, it can be used without it. The book, however, goes into much more detail about the quirky history and characters of the city. At the end of each section, I list the page number in the book for the associated story. Enjoy your walk through the Old Town!

Place Massena

Place Massena is the heart of the city. Just off this plaza, you’ll notice a park with a shallow water feature from which jets of water spring into the air. It’s called the Promenade du Paillon and it’s named after the Paillon River which still flows beneath it.

The Paillon was one of those rivers that was nearly dry most of the time. But when it rained in the mountains, the water would roar down through it and wash away whatever got caught in its path. In 1867 the river was covered and the water feature is a homage to the river below it. Even the paving stones represent the pools of water in the river bed. – Page 15

Apollo Statue – Fontaine du Soleil

Let’s have a look at the majestic Apollo statue which has quite a funny history. It was installed in 1956 and immediately caused problems. Some of the residents didn’t like the fact that he was naked and, in addition, they thought he was too well endowed. The mayor called the sculptor back to give him a little reduction, but that wasn’t enough. Apollo was sent outside the city center where he wouldn’t offend anyone. He was allowed to come back in 2011.

You might notice the horses on his head. This is a reference to the story that Apollo carries the sun across the sky each day in his chariot pulled by four horses.

The Bronzes around Apollo were buried during the Second World War to keep them from being melted down. They represent five planets. – Page 10 5

The Old Town

A few tips about the Old Town before we get going:

Street Signs – In the Old Town, street signs are high on the corners of buildings. The top part is in French and the bottom is in Niçois.

Place – Place rhymes with glass. You will see lots of places called Place This or Place That. Place means plaza or square.

Cannon at Noon  – At 12:00 noon, you will hear a loud boom. Don’t worry, it’s just the noontime cannon. Today it’s not really a cannon, but it once was. In Victorian times, many wealthy British people spent their winters in Nice. One Scottish Lord was annoyed that his wife would forget to come home and make him lunch. So he supplied the cannon and paid to have it fired every day at noon to remind her it was lunch time. The tradition continues to this day. – Page 52

Papeterie Rontani – Queen Victoria Shopped Here

From the Apollo statue, enter the Old Town by going down the steps to your left (on Apollo’s right). This will be  Rue Alexandre Mari . On the first corner you come to, you will see Papeterie Rontani. This is a stationary/ art supply shop where Queen Victoria used to buy her paper supplies. They still proudly display the sign on the side of the building which reads “By Appointment, Stationer to H.M. The Queen Victoria.” – Page 42

City Hall – Hotel de Ville

Turn right on the corner by the Papeterie Rontani. This will be  Rue de l’Hotel de Ville and will take you by the Hotel de Ville (City Hall). This is where marriages take place and it’s also home to a large thumb sculpture by César.  You can read more about the thumb here.

Turn left on Rue Saint François de Paule . The Opera house will be on your right. There has been an entertainment venue on this spot since 1776. The first opera house burned down in 1881, causing around sixty deaths. Three weeks after the second opera house (this one) opened, an earthquake shook it during a packed performance. It withstood the quake, but after a fire and an earthquake, people were a bit hesitant to go to the opera. – Page 76

Maison Auer – Chocolate Shop

Just across from the opera house is a chocolate shop not to be missed. The furniture on the inside is beautiful and said to be designed by the same architect who did the opera house. Their window displays normally reflect any holidays or special occasions taking place. You can read more about Auer here .

Cours Saleya

Continue straight ahead and you’ll come to Cours Saleya . There’s a flower, fruit, and vegetable market here every morning except Monday. Monday the area is given over to an antiques/flea market. There are restaurants on both sides that set up dining tables after the market closes. – Page 25

Palais de Sardes – Sarde Palace

About half way down Course Saleya, you will see an open square on the left. At the back of this square is the Sardes Palace. It was built in the early 1600s and was a palace for the Dukes of Savoy. It would have been from these balconies that the king and queen watched and waved at the first carnival parade in 1830. The Niçois loved having a parade so much that the following year the King wasn’t in town so they made a “scarecrow-type king” and put him on the balcony to watch the parade. – Page 29

Miséricorde Chapel

This little gem of baroque architecture sits in the same square as the Palais de Sardes. It’s not usually open to the public.

Terrace Stairs

On the right side of Cours Saleya, just across from the Palais de Sardes, people used to stroll along the rooftops. The terraces have been closed for years and are now used mostly for air conditioning units, but, if you like, you can climb up the stairs for an overview of Cours Saleya.

Matisse House

At the far end of Cours Saleya you can see a large yellow building where the artist Henri Matisse lived and worked from 1921 to 1938. It is not open to the public.

Adam and Eve House – Maison d’Adam et Eve

Just before the end of Cours Saleya, turn left on Rue de la Poissonnerie . Be sure to look up to see the Adam and Eve Fresco. A Niçois legend says that after they were kicked out of the Garden of Eden they went to the next most beautiful place on earth (that’s Nice, of course). – Page 4

Loge Communale

Continue to the end of Rue de la Poissonnerie . On your left you’ll see the Loge Communale – a small arcaded space with bits of architecture from Old Nice. The sphinx used to decorate a column that stood near Place Massena. It was given to the King by the Jewish population of Nice. The column was demolished in 1861 and the sphinx went up to Castle Hill (colline du chateau) where they were on the balustrade of the waterfall. You can read about Castle Hill on Page 56 .

With your back to the Loge Communale, go right on  Rue de la Prefecture to  Rue Droite . Turn left on  Rue Droite.

Natural Air Conditioning

As you walk along Rue Droite , look for the grills over the doorways that let in the cool air from the street. This fresh air then travels up a narrow central courtyard to cool the building. Also note the narrow streets and the shutters with a central part that swings open. This is the Old Town’s all-natural cooling system. – Page 21

As you walk along this street, you will see several openings on your right that have stairs. Any of these will take you up to the Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill). But there is also an elevator just off the Promenade. – Page 56 (Castle Hill)

Place du Jesus

You will come to a small plaza,  Place du Jesus , which is in front of a 17 th century baroque church called Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur  dite le Gesu (called the Gesu – or Jesus). Just across from the church is the Restaurant of Gesu. Look for their funny sign painted on the building of an angel eating their “heavenly” food.

Socca and Chez Theresa

Socca is a type of chickpea pancake and is a Niçois speciality. And Chez Theresa is a socca restaurant known for its unusual delivery system. When they are selling socca from their stall at the morning market on Cours Saleya, they cook it here on Rue Droite and deliver it on a specially adapted motorized bike. If it’s not in use, you might see the bike sitting outside the shop at 28 Rue Droite.. – Page 127

Palais Lascaris

At 15 Rue Droite, you’ll find a mid-seventeenth century palace. It’s very easy to miss because the exterior is unremarkable, but the inside is beautiful. It’s now a museum with a collection of musical instruments. There is an entry fee.

Cannon Ball

Just after Palais Lascaris you will come to a cross street called Rue de la Loge . Look up at the corner of the building to see a cannon ball. The plaque says: “Cannonball fired by the Turkish fleet in the 1543 siege of Nice in which Catherine Segurana distinguished herself.” Chatherine Segurana is a Niçoise heroine who drove away the Turkish army by flashing them. We’ll talk more about her later.

Place Rossetti

Go left on  Rue de la Loge to a small plaza called  Place Central . Then go left on  Rue Centrale . Follow it (the name changes to  Rue Mascoinat ) and you will end up in  Place Rossetti .

Place Rossetti is a lively plaza where you’ll find  St Reparate Cathedral . It was built in honor of Saint Reparate whose decapitated body was guided to Nice by angels. You’ll also find one of Nice’s most popular ice cream stands,  Fennochio’s . They have just about any flavor you can think of. While in Place Rossetti, look for the tall, skinny building. – Page 4

The False Door – La Porte Fausse

From Place Rossetti, go down the right side of the Cathedral which is Rue Francis Gallo . Follow it all the way to the end and you will see a beautiful stairway surrounded by arches and marble. You might notice the inscription “porte fausse” which means false door. When the old city was surrounded by a wall, there was a small, hidden gate here. It could be used to escape when the city was under siege, and in times of peace it was a quick way to the river. The decoration of this archway was part of a project to place art all along the tramway. Read more about it here .

Fish Market – Place Saint Francis

At the False Door, turn right on to Rue de la Boucherie and meander along among the shops. You’ll come back to  Place Central . This time go to the left of the building in front of you on  Rue du Collet .

Continue on Rue du Collet, and you’ll come to a small plaza on your left called  Place Saint Francis . There is a fish market here in the mornings. Usually there are seagulls hanging around on top of the fountain to clean up any left-over scraps that might have fallen to the ground.

Catherine Segurane Monument

Continue on  Rue St Francois which becomes  Rue Pairolière then turn right where you see signs for Monument à Catarina Segurana and La Treille on the side of a building – this is Rue Saint Augustin . Go up a few stairs and you will see a building called  La Treille . Go up the right side of this building which will also be  Rue Saint Augustin . You will come to a small plaza with a nice baroque-style church (St Martin and St Augustin). 

Just across from the church there is a bas-relief monument to Catherine Segurane (or Catarina Segurana in Niçois). It’s on part of the old city wall where this laundress drove away the Turkish army. The city was under siege from the Turkish and French armies (Nice wasn’t French at the time). Catherine saw a Turk climbing the wall intending to plant the Turkish flag and claim victory. She ran up with her laundry paddle and knocked him off. She grabbed the Turkish flag and ripped it up. Then she turned around and mooned the Turkish army which decided to retreat. Every year, there’s a litte ceremony here to celebrate Catherine lifting her skirt to drive away the enemy. – Page 9

Place Garibaldi

Go back down the way you came. Down  Rue Saint Augustin to La Treille then down the stairs to  Rue Pairolière  (the shopping street) and go right. Follow this street to the end where you will leave the Old Town.

Now you can turn right to enter  Place Garibaldi . It’s a lovely square surrounded by yellow buildings painted with trompe-l’œil architectural details. It’s named after Guiseppe Garibaldi, a politician and soldier who was firmly against Nice becoming French. – Page 31

And that concludes our tour of the Old Town. Hope you enjoyed it. The walking route and the mentioned sites can be seen on the map below. And if you want to read more in depth stories about these sites and many others in Nice, you can find them in my book, Curious Histories of Nice, France .

You can download this article and some of my others on the GPSmyCity app.

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12 comments.

Wow! That’s a fabulous itinerary: amazing how you managed to cram so much in. 🙂

Well, that little area is just packed with things to see… 🙂

Amazing!, I love reading about history and beautiful places. I live in Galveston Texas and the architecture is so similar to our oldest part of the city. So far away and different but so familiar!

Oh that’s interesting. You wouldn’t think Nice, France and Galvaston, Texas would be that similar. Who knew? Thanks for sharing.

There have been six flags to fly over Texas and the French flag was one of them. We also had a French Pirate in residence long ago.

Yes, that makes sense. I lived in St. Louis which was French at one time. I just hadn’t realized the French were in Texas too. And a French pirate? That sounds like a good story… 🙂

Brilliant Margo. I shall be taking friends next week – armed of course with your Curious Histories – round Old Nice. There is always something I haven’t noticed – shall be looking for la Porte Fausse this time. Every time I’m there the “cannon” makes me jump out of my skin even though I know perfectly well it’s going to happen ! Apparently a mini canicule on Weds for a few days, London might be cooler !!

Hi Lisa, Let me know how the walk goes. I covered a lot, so I hope it’s not too long. I’m in Provence right now. It’s 37 tomorrow and 43 by Friday – but at least there’s air con. London is supposed to hit 30 on Saturday when we get back, and we don’t have air con there. 🙁

A wonderful walking tour Margo. I will have to plan another trip to Nice just to do it! Best Wishes, Paula

It’s a good excuse to go to Nice… 🙂

Thank you for the walking tour, we enjoyed it!

So glad to hear that you enjoyed your walking tour of Nice. It’s a lovely old city with lots of interesting things to discover. Hopefully you fell in love with it like I did. 🙂

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Explore the Riviera

15 best tours in nice, france.

Looking for the best tours to take in Nice, France? You are in the right place.

The city of Nice is a wonderful place to explore and many incredible tours will take you through the city. From exploring the beautiful French Riviera coastline to visiting some of the most famous attractions, such as Place Massena or Promenade des Anglais, these tours are a great choice for doing an in-depth exploration of Nice.

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera.

Personally, I have been living in Nice for a while now and was lucky to have the opportunity to take a few amazing tours in the city. I have put together this guide to share my personal recommendations for the best Nice tours, based on my own experience.

So, let’s have a look at the best tours in Nice. Enjoy!

Editor’s pick:

From nice: french riviera in one day.

Explore some of the most beautiful places on the French Riviera in one day.

Visit the village of Èze, and explore Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Antibes.

The Grand Canyon of Europe & its Lavender Fields

⭐️ Rated:  4.7 out of 5  (119 Reviews)

In this Grand Canyon of Europe & its Lavender Fields tour depart from Nice, pass through the Gorges du Loup, arrive in Castellane, and get free time to see the famous rock.

Then, visit the biggest canyon in Europe with its many unbelievable points of view. Finish by visiting Moustier, the capital of Fayence.

 Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud Boat Tour from Nice

⭐️ Rated:  4.4 out of 5  (179 Reviews)

Witness the stunning landscapes of the French Riviera on a day trip from Nice. Sail from Saint-Tropez, admire the fishermen’s houses on the canals of Port Grimaud, and see the Massif de l’Esterel.

Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour from Nice

⭐️ Rated:  4.4 out of 5  (586 Reviews)

Visit the Verdon Gorge and explore the villages of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Old Town Treasures Walking Tour

⭐️ Rated:  4.7 out of 5  (219 Reviews)

Live the history of Nice on a guided walking tour in the medieval old town known as Vieux-Nice. Learn about the city’s history from its Greek origins through the days of Italian governors.

Grasse, Gourdon, Valbonne, and Wine Tasting Full-day from Nice

⭐️ Rated:  4.7 out of 5  (83 Reviews)

Spend a day in the countryside on a full-day tour from Nice. See the scenic beauty for yourself, from verdant vineyards to vast lavender fields to dramatic rocky cliffs. With your knowledgeable guide, stop in the scented town of Grasse.

Tour the well-known Fragonard Perfumery. Visit the towns of Gourdon and Valbonne, before heading back to Nice for a tour of the Château de Crémat wine estate and a wine tasting. Tour group size is limited to eight people to ensure personalized attention from your guide.

• 10 Best Wine Tours from Nice [2024]

⭐️ Rated:  4.6 out of 5  (1189 Reviews)

Discover the Côte d’Azur on this guided driving tour of the French Riviera. Visit the village of Èze, and explore Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Antibes.

French Riviera Tour: Cannes, Antibes & Saint-Paul de Vence

⭐️ Rated:  4.7 out of 5  (171 Reviews)

See the best of the French Riviera on a trip to Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Paul de Vence.

Drive along the glittering coastline, past yachts bobbing in the marinas at the lovely Bay of Angels, and end your day at Saint-Paul de Vence, the jewel of Provence.

Mediterranean Coastal Sightseeing Cruise from Nice

See the glorious scenery along the Mediterranean coast from the water during a 1-hour sightseeing cruise from Nice. Board the ship at the Port of Nice and begin the tour in the Baie des Anges.

Venture around the Cap de Nice to see the imposing Citadelle and myriad historic hamlets that dot the hilly landscape, as well as the lovely Promenade des Anglais along the beach in Nice. As you enjoy the unforgettable views, listen to commentary about the history of the French Riviera.

• 10 Best Boat Trips and Tours From Nice [2024]

Private French Riviera Solar Boat Cruise

⭐️ Rated:  4.9 out of 5  (98 Reviews)

See the iconic sites of the French Riviera on a unique and environmentally friendly solar boat tour. Take in views of stunning villas and coastlines. Cruise on a silent odorless electric private boat.

Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip

⭐️ Rated:  4.5 out of 5  (1481 Reviews)

Experience the charm of the Côte d’Azur. Visit Eze, a medieval village and perfume Fragonard, the marvelous principality of Monaco, and the circuit of Formula 1.

1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay

⭐️ Rated:  4.6 out of 5  (1215 Reviews)

See Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Villefranche-sur-Mer on a sightseeing cruise along the French Riviera.

Admire the coastal towns, lush landscapes, and millionaire villas from the glittering sea.

Nice: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

⭐️ Rated:  4.7 out of 5  (638 Reviews)

Explore Nice according to your own schedule and interests with a 1-day or a 2-day pass for the open-top hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus.

Jump off and on as often as you like to see sights such as Place Garibaldi, Promenade des Anglais and more.

Nice City Segway Sightseeing Tour

⭐️ Rated:  5 out of 5  (737 Reviews)

Roll through the charming sights of the French Riviera on a fun Segway tour of Nice! On your choice of a 1- or 2-hour tour, ride a gyropod Segway past highlights of the beautiful seaside town, including the Promenade des Anglais, Place Massena, and the vibrant Cours Saleya flower market.

Learn about Nice’s rich heritage from your expert guide and its anecdotes. Appreciate the pleasure and the fun of riding on gyropode Segway! With the 2-hour tour, take the heights from Castle Hill and enjoy its spectacular views of the Mediterranean sea and the city.

Nice Old Town and Castle Hill: Guided Cultural Walking Tour

⭐️ Rated:  5 out of 5  (135 Reviews)

Dive into Nice’s compelling history. Hear insider stories about the Nice Town Hall, the Nice Cathedral, and more. Learn about Niçoise delicacies at a local flower market.

• 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]

2-Hour Scenic Drive by 3-Wheel Vehicle

⭐️ Rated:  4.8 out of 5  (169 Reviews)

Experience the French Riviera aboard a unique vehicle and discover the highlights on a 2-hour scenic self-drive. Get behind the wheel of an open-top, 3-wheel car equipped with a GPS navigation system and a full tank of fuel for your comfort.

Why Book a Tour of the French Riviera?

While many visitors choose to explore the French Riviera on their own, there are several reasons why booking a tour can be a great way to experience all that the region has to offer.

First of all, tour operators have extensive knowledge of the area and can provide an insider’s perspective on its history and culture. They also have access to exclusive locations that are not open to the public.

So why not take the hassle out of planning your trip and let a tour operator show you the best of the French Riviera?

✈️ Need help planning your trip to the French Riviera?

Best Companies to Book Tours in Nice

My favorite companies to book tours in Nice (or anywhere else in the world) are Viator and Get Your Guide .

Viator offers a wide range of tours in Nice and you can find something to suit your interests. Their day trips provide excellent value for money and they come with a money-back guarantee.

Get Your Guide offers more of the same, but also has a great selection of private tours and custom experiences and has usually better prices for tours in France.

READ: 35 Best things to do in Nice, France

What to Bring to These Tours?

When going on any tour, these are some of the essentials that I always bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• A bottle of water
• Snacks to keep me energized throughout the day
• Sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun
• A camera (or smartphone) to take pictures.

Above all, make sure you wear comfortable clothes and be prepared to enjoy your adventure!

Nice Travel Guide and FAQ

Where is nice located.

Nice is located in southeastern France, on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a popular tourist destination and part of the French Riviera (Cote d’Azur) with many beautiful beaches, resorts, and attractions.

Where to stay in Nice?

READ: 15 Best hotels to stay in Nice, France

What is the best way to get around Nice?

The easiest way to get around Nice is by walking or cycling. There are also public buses and trams that you can use for longer distances. You can also take taxis or rideshares from the airport to your hotel if needed.

Are there any safety tips I should know while traveling in Nice?

Yes, like with any city it’s important to take basic safety precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping an eye on your belongings when out in crowded areas, and being aware of pickpockets. It is also advisable to check travel advisories before booking a trip to Nice.

Conclusion: The Best French Riviera Tours to take in Nice

I hope this guide is helpful for finding the best tours in Nice. Have fun exploring the beautiful city and enjoy your time! Bon voyage!

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

• 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France
• 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024

Camila Neves

Nice to meet you! My name is Cami and I am a full-time traveler and foodie. I live in Nice in the South of France and this blog is where I share my impressions and travel secrets.

Recent Posts

Routes and Trips Travel Guide with Maps and Photos

City walk: see nice in one day.

Posted by: Liisa Nygård

France tops the list for the most visited countries in the world. All of us want to see Paris, but go beyond that. Go to the French Riviera and Nice in the south-east.  To help you explore Nice in one day, I marked a Nice walking itinerary on a Google map.

So wherever you choose to stay on the Riviera, spend at least a day in Nice. 

What to see in Nice in one day: stroll the old town

Nice is the capital of the French Riviera (Cote d’Azur) and has a population of 350 000. As a historic city Nice mainly has very narrow streets.

That makes traffic in Nice slow, so slow that the best way to see the city is to walk. Park your car in the boat harbor (Le Port), or use a parking garage that there are many of around Promenade des Anglais and Place Massena.

As the French Riviera has very good public transport, it’s even better if you can arrive by bus or train. An example of how to use public transport in the French Riviera: Read about our bus trip to Monaco

Walking in Nice like the Englishmen: Promenade des Angais

My Nice walking itinerary will help you to the top sights of this amazing Mediterranean city, most of which are in a small area in the heart of the city.

Then, if you stay longer in Nice, the next day you can look for more to see according to your preference. Maybe exhibitions and museums?

A Walking Itinerary to See Nice in One Day

Below you will se  what Nice looks like on the map.

There is a port in the east, and next to it a green hill with winding walkways. The old town hides well protected on the foots of the hill, and then there is a kilometres long beach that lines the seashore all the way to Nice Airport.

How to see Nice in one day, the map

The walking route is marked on the map, see the blue dots. You will see the old town, beach, Promenade des Anglais and some more city quarters beyond the Promenade, an area in which you easily spend a whole day.

We started our trip in the port:

1. The Port of Nice

The Port of Nice seen from our rental car

To begin with, the Nice cruise harbour ( Le Port ) is a place to visit. Above all, go and see the Mediterranean buildings beyond the yacht harbour.

Then spend some time strolling in Le Port that might still be shaded by the hill in the morning. At that time there should not be any crowds.

When evening comes it’s the opposite. Evening sun from the west makes it all glow in colours and draws locals and tourists alike to the area. As the old harbour is a dining area, an evening here might be a good idea.

Panorama from the Hill

Then you might want to climb to the hill Colline du Chateau for a great panorama of Nice. There are stairs up from the Quai Rauba Capeu, both from the seaside and from the other side.

The hill has a misleading name. There’s no castle after it was destroyed in 1706. Only a park is left, and many walkways in the forest.

Nice in One Day: 2. The Beach

The pebble beach of Nice, one of the best in the French Riviera

From the hill you can see how long the beach is, stretching up to the airport.

To be exact, it’s not only one beach. In Nice the beach consists of 30 separate beaches, a lot to choose from. You first have to know what you want.

Some sections are incredibly deep when you step into the water. They don’t suit children and may cause danger to adults aw well, but in between you will find shallow sections.

The landmark of Nice in photos:

Not to make it easy, the beach is partly private and partly public.

There are 15 private beaches with beach chairs, umbrellas and facilities, and free public beaches in between. So, even when it looks like there’s only one long beach, you will have to think about where to enter.

A lonely fisherman on the Nice beach

The beach is the biggest magnet of Nice that has always drawn tourists to the city. I guess you wanted to see it as well, or maybe you came to Nice for another attraction, the seafront boulevard Promenade des Anglais?

3. Promenade des Anglais

Nice in one day: old building-style of Promenade des Anglais 

Promenade des Anglais is an iconic street with plenty of room for cars and, in places, even more for pedestrians. Following s the Mediterranean seafront for a length of 5 km, it begins from the old town.

Promenade des Anglais was built two hundred years ago, as a response to the English upper classes who were looking for places with a milder winter climate.

So they came and built their mansions in Nice and spent their winters walking up and down the Promenade. This is what gave Promenade des Anglais its name, “Walkway of the English”.

Today the buildings of the English still stand there, for the most part, but the street had to transform when cars needed more and more of it. Today there are eight lanes for cars.

Luckily they had made the Promenade was so wide from the beginning and there was room for a walking area as well.

An old mansion on Promenade des Anglais, Nice

My photos will show you some samples of typical Promenade des Anglais buildings, many of which are now hotels. The most exclusive of them is  Hotel Negresco .

Quai des Etats-Units

Walk Nice in one day

Towards the Old Town the promenade gets narrower and buildings simpler and lower. You can see buildings form a wall between the Promenade and the Old Town.

The long white wall of flat houses is called Les Ponchettes . Les Ponchettes contains ateliers, cafes and restaurants on its both sides, the sea and town sides.

This area, Quai des Etats-Units with the flat houses, was the most fashionable area before the Promenade. It still looks nice – and protects the old town against winds from the sea. Through gates in the Les Ponchettes walls you can access the old town:

4. Le Vieux Nice (Nice Old Town)

Nice Old Town beyond Les Ponchettes

So the old town, Le Vieux Nice in French, has a city wall against winter storms, but in the old days protection against attacks from the sea was the primary purpose.

What do we find on the other side?

Cours Saleya Street Market

The street market Cours Saleya, Nice old town

The first thing you will come across  is Cours Saleya, the main street in the old town that at the same time is a flower and vegetable market (daily except Mondays).

On the Cours Saleya market you will get an overview on what the French Riviera produces. The market is where local farmers from the countryside come to sell what they produce.

Then there are sellers of lavender bags and Marseille soap in twenty different flavors.

If you are going to buy lavender bags, buy them here. The ones I bought on the market were much better quality than the ones hanging in old town tourist shops.

Narrow Alleys, Shops and Street Cafes

What to see in Nice in one day: stroll in the old town

The rest of the old town is all narrow alleys and pastel buildings.

As all townhouses are so high and the alleys so narrow, the sun won’t get into where you walk. Most of the day the old town is a shady place, a positive thing during the Mediterranean summer. At other times of the year it’s not so pleasant, as the old town is so cold.

As this is a tourist area, there is to be found what tourists like most: small shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes. Wonderful Provence textiles in all colors, Provence spices, tastes and scents.

One more shady Vieux Nice alley:

A shady street in Nice Old Town

Then there is the large square Place du Palaice:

Place du Palaice

The pink church tower of Place du Palaice, Nice

Below middle you will see the Palais du Justice where the square’s name comes from, and Place du Palaice, the busy square in front of the palace:

Wouldn’t you love to sit on this sunny balcony, watching street life and, at the same time, see the sun set in the Mediterranean?

A sunny Nice balcony 

We will be back in the Vieux nice after dark, and now have a look at the “new town” instead.

5.Beyond the Old Town

Place Massena in Central Nice

This is the main square of Nice. The Italian style Place Massena is located right behind the old town. Place Massena with these arcades and pavement decorations looks so Italian.

This is where the main shopping area of the city begins. Avenue Jean Medecin is the main shopping street where most department stores exist.

Promenade du Paillon

Central Nice, built on the covered river Paillon

On its both sides Place Massena has parks that are built where a river used to be. The River Paillon split the city in two, but was covered over.

The Paillon still runs through the city us an underground river. That way it gives more room for a playground and tram line.

Central Nice has a classical look. One more square, located next to the old town:

One more Nice square

Jardin Albert 1er

Jardin Albert 1er carousel, Promenade des Anglais

The same river has given way to the small park of Jardin Albert 1er, located on the north side of Promenade de Anglais.

Our kids loved the fountain and the traditional old-time carousel, and it looked like the local children liked the same things. There was no common language, just fun together.

Jardin Albert 1er is the place where French independence day ceremonies happen each July. That of course makes a lot of locals come around.

What to see in Nice in one day: a pretty fountain next to Promenade des Anglais

Time to walk on and look at the sea waves. The Mediterranean is as blue as always and we feel so happy to be in Nice!

6. Promenade des Anglais

Hello! Greetings from the French Riviera!

This is one of the pretty gates through which you will get to the beach, the old-style Beau Rivage gate.

Nice is one of the very few cities in the world that has beach like this right in the city center. What a luxury for those who live here, and what a luxury for us that visit!

You can tell this is an essential part of their daily life. A place to sit in evenings, on blue chairs, looking at the sea:

Promenade des Anglais is where Nice residents like to come after work to spend their leisure time, in the Mediterranean way:

Roller skating on Promenade des Anglais

Roller skaters, walkers, joggers – and on the other side an endless flow of cars:

Then, after sunset, it’s the right time to get back to the old town.

7. Back to the Old Town

Nice old town after dark

In old town canyons it gets dark sooner than out on the Promenade. Looking up, it feels like all houses are leaning and falling on me, a strange feeling that I kind of like.

Before dinner there’s still time to wander the cobbled streets and see if there’s something to buy.

Can you see how narrow and high the old town buildings are?

Raising my head to see the sky

Shopping in the French Riviera: Nice Old Town

Strolling in the old town evening you will feel you are in South France. Sounds, flavors, scents, the language.

As I always only travel with a cabin baggage, I just have to look at the items, not buy. Putting limits your baggage size makes traveling easier but converts shopping to window-shopping.

Some more views of Nice old town evening:

Relax, sit down in a street cafe and enjoy the French Riviera atmosphere. Street musicians, performers, nice people, just get to know them.

A French Riviera cocktail bar

Street musicians in a busy corner

As walking makes you hungry it’s time to find where to have dinner. Hope you will find a place where you can sit outdoors. The streets and squares are so nice to look at while dining.

The Mediterranean Nice Old Town in France

Dining in Nice Old Town

Sit down where typical Provencal dishes are served: Mediterranean fish, mussels, squid – and once you are in Nice, you just have to taste Socca , chickpea pancakes.

See Nice in one day: dining in Nice

Two more street views: a silent street and a busy one:

Two Nice streets

And finally, the Place Massena sculpture will wave goodbye to you, good night!

So now have spent a day in Nice, and walked a lot. To be honest, there was no time for art museums that there are so many of in Nice. Maybe that will be the next day’s program.

Goodye Nice, have a good night!

Read more about Nice and its art museums on the official website of Nice Convention and Visitors Bureau:

Nicetourisme.com

More about the French Riviera

You might also be interested in these posts:

• The Top 10 Places in the French Riviera
• What to See in One Day in Monaco
• Walk around Cap-Ferrat, French Riviera

GREAT info!!

I have read all your articles on the French Riviera. Thank you for the detailed descriptions. What great source of information.

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• TRIP FROM NICE TO MONACO
• FREE NICE OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR
• FREE NICE NIGHT WALKING TOUR
• FREE CANNES WALKING TOUR
• FREE ANTIBES WALKING TOUR
• RIVIERA SUMMER BOAT PARTY NICE
• PRIVATE TOURS FRENCH RIVIERA
• NICE PRIVATE TOURS
• MONACO PRIVATE TOURS
• CANNES PRIVATE TOURS
• ANTIBES PRIVATE TOURS
• MENTON PRIVATE TOURS
• NICE FOOD TOURS
• CANNES FOOD TOURS
• RIVIERA BAR CRAWL NICE – PUB CRAWL NICE
• RIVIERA BAR CRAWL CANNES
• SPEAKEASY TOUR NICE
• NICE WINE TASTING TOURS
• COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE
• APERITIF BOAT TOUR IN NICE
• STAND UP PADDLE EZE BEACH
• BOAT TOURS FROM CANNES
• PARASAILING NICE

“NISSA LA BELLA”

We are back again: we are operating our free nice walking tours  7 days of the week prior booking is mandatory – please make sure to book in advance so we don’t exceed maximum capacity.

What : Walking tour around Nice old town in English

When: All Year 7 days a Week

Where : We meet at Massena Square Fountain next to “Apollo statue” at 10H55

Your Guide : You’ll see us with the red Umbrella and Red T-shirt

Duration : Around 2-2.5 hour tour

Price : Tips Based Walking Tour I Tip your guide according to your budget and how much you enjoyed the Tour

Contact & information : [email protected]

Book your Nice private Tours 

• 2H00 guided tour through the old town and the castle hill
• Meet at 10.55 am at the sun fountain on Place Masséna
• Your local guide will wear a red T-shirt and carry an umbrella
• Immediate confirmation by email: printed or mobile confirmation forms are accepted
• Food or drinks
• Personal expenses

Can the walking tour of Nice be done with a baby stroller?

Yes it is possible we are happy to welcome families in the tour. You can use your stroller in the old town and on the Promenade des Anglais. We end the tour at the castle of Nice so you can take the elevator while your guide walks up and meet the guide with the group at the top of the castle.

Our Free walking tour of Nice is one of the finest ways to explore this beautiful city along the French Riviera and the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. As the area is Nicknamed Nice the beautiful, our walking tour can help you to discover some of the finest aspects of Nice and truly see why it has been called a beautiful place for centuries.

During our free walking tour around Nice Old town you can see some of the history as well as explore nice old town and a variety of other unique  attractions. Through areas like the Massena sqaure, the opera House, the cours saleya market, Galerie des Ponchettes, the belanda tower, Rossetti square and other attractions, you can get a true history of Nice.

Purchasing your tickets, you understand that it’s not a private tour and it may be a large group, however we will give our best to accommodate everyone and have a Nice tour together.

During the tour we stop few minutes at the flower market «Cours Saleya » where you can discover and buy local food. Don’t forget to take a small bottle of water, sunglasses and a camera. There are toilets in the Cours Saleya. Wear shoes you can walk in, as this is a good walk of the ‘best bits’ of beautiful Nice.

The walking tour of Nice is available as private tour.  Contact us  or information.

At the end of the tour get your Free Nice post card and informations about the things to do in Nice.

“MEETING PLACE”

Meeting at the sun fountain Place Massena 06300 Nice  10H55 I

Note: We want to accommodate and offer our tour to as many individuals as possible, therefore, in case of bookings for groups of 5 and more people, we charge 10 Eur per person. Thank you for understanding.

If you enjoyed your tour you can tip your guide for the time and effort they spend with you during your experience! Free tours do not have a set price, instead, you can give your tour guide at the end of the tour the amount that you consider appropriate (tips usually range from 10€ to 50€ or even more) depending on your satisfaction with the tour.

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Self-guided walking tour in Nice, France

Half-day self-guided walking tour in nice with an audio guide.

Explore Nice on your own with our half-day self-guided audio tour. Experience the incredible views along the Promenade des Anglais and the Old Town. Find out about the city’s rich history.

Our self-guided walking tour of Nice is designed to whisk you around the best sites in this beautiful city. With an audio guide included, you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Nice while immersing yourself in local culture and history.

You will get a local’s perspective on the city’s most famous landmarks, including La Promenade des Anglais, Place Massena and Castle hill. Walk through Nice Old Town and explore more of Nice with personalised audio commentary on topics including art and culture, history and politics, shopping and food.

How is your self-guided walking tour going to work?

No need to worry! Our self-guided walking tour is designed to get you the most out of your trip, without needing a guide. All you need is to download an app, have a smartphone or tablet computer, and a few minutes of time before your trip.

We know the best way to experience the history of a place is on foot, so we’re going to give you a virtual map and an itinerary to follow. Using the map, you can easily navigate from one stop to the next—it’s easy to find your way around Nice by foot. 

We’ve taken care of the details: when and where to go, an audio guide to listen during the tour, an interactive map, time-tested itineraries, a dedicated mobile app with GPS-guided technology. We do all the hard work and give you total freedom – explore at your own pace.

What is the itinerary of our self-guided walking tour?

During our self-guided walking tour in Nice, you will be able to discover all the city’s main attractions. The itinerary of our self-guided walking tour is as follows:

• Place Massena 

It’s the historic marketplace and meeting point of Nice. It’s also considered the cultural centre of the South, inspiring Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, Nietzsche, Aragon, Tolstoy, Berlioz, Bizet and Paganini.

• Fontaine du Soleil – Apollo’s Statue

This monument celebrates the 150th anniversary of Nice being part of France. The sculpture is 30 metres high and is known to be the tallest in France.

• Esplanade Georges Pompidou

This green space is named after Pompidou, France’s President in the early 70s, as it was a particularly favorite spot of his on his visits around the country. 

• Opera House of Nice

You are going to visit the third version of the Opera House.

• Flower Market / Cours Saleya Markets

There are plenty of stalls selling fresh flowers, artisanal items such as jewellery, lavender bags, tote bags and pieces of artwork.

• Palais de la Préfecture

Palais de la Prefecture is a magnificent building; built here in the 1500s to host the Savoie family, rulers of Nice, after the castle of Nice was abandoned. 

• Palais de Justice

It’s a grandiose major courtroom here in Nice. 

• Place Rossetti

Place Rossetti is famous among the locals and is one of the most beautiful squares in the Old Town, housing restaurants, ice cream parlours and various artisanal stores.

This street is now home to various local favorites and excellent places to go out if you want to find somewhere off the beaten path within the historic Old Town.

• Paganini Plaque

You will visit a plaque which commemorates Niccolo Paganini, a famous violinist and will learn interesting details about his life.

• Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais takes its name from the English tourists, who would promenade along the sea with their parasols…a strange sight to the working-class Niçois.

• Castle Hill of Nice

You will discover the remains of an ancient Castle hill in Nice. You will have a breathtaking view of Promenade des Anglais and its important highlights as hotel Negresco.

Why should you book a self-guided walking tour in Nice?

Here is a list of reasons that will encourage you to opt for a self guided tour instead of a group tour.

• From the Promenade des Anglais to the Vieux-Nice district and Castle Hill, there are many things to see and do in Nice.
• The tour is especially convenient if you’re staying in town for just one or two nights. Or if you don’t have much time to explore Nice before heading off on your next adventure.
• The best way to explore Nice is on foot. The city is small enough that you can see most of the major sights on foot.
• If you are travelling with kids or on your own, a self-guided walking tour is the perfect option. You can get a good sense of the city and its history without having to worry about transportation or other logistics.
• You’ll also be able to spend more time at each attraction because you won’t have to wait around for your tour guide.

Important information you should know before booking a self-guided walking tour in Nice

• The tour begins on Massena Square, in front of Fontaine Miroir d’Eau. Please, follow the itinerary as it has been conceived for an optimal visit.
• Take a bottle of fresh water with you. 
• The best time for your visit to Nice is from spring until autumn (April and October). It’s less recommended to go during the winter months due to cold weather.
• The best time of the day for a self-guided tour is in the morning until midday until the sun starts to hit strongly and the tourists start to invade the city centre.
• You will receive an email as soon as you book your self-guided tour with important instructions. Please, follow the instructions in order to get access to the tour.
• The tour is not suitable for people who use a wheelchair as some parts of the tour require climbing starts.
• You are going to visit a total of 12 highlights during the tour.
• The duration of the tour is about 2 hours.
• Please, bring headphones with you and make sure that your phone’s battery is fully charged.
• The travel distance is about 2 Km.

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• Discover Nice’s important highlights on your own pace
• Learn about the history, art, politics and social life of the beautiful city of Nice
• Avoid large groups by moving around at your convenience
• Start your tour whenever you want without any constraint
• Unlimited access to the app

Included/Excluded

• Tailor-made itinerary to follow on your own pace
• Audio commentary provided in English by a native speaker
• Best locations to take photos
• Transport up to and from the meeting point
• Services of a real guide

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Port Lympia

The Old Town

Quartier des Musiciens

Promenade des Anglais

Promenade du Paillon

Important changes.

The face of Nice is changing so quickly it’s hard to keep up! The Promenade du Paillon is being extended far to the east. The TNN ( Theatre National de Nice) I referred to on page 179 has been torn down. In its place is a new garden promenade, La Bourgada . Instead of climbing to the top of TNN as I suggested, you can climb up to a balcony overlooking the garden for this view.

And, as if that wasn’t enough, the Couvent de la Visitation I mentioned on page 59 as part of the Old Town walk , is now a five-star hotel, the Hotel du Couvent. I noted that the hotel was planned and now it’s completed. Although the facade extends to the Place Sainte Claire, the entrance is on 1 rue Honoré Ugo. At least for now, that’s the only entrance and it’s best accessed at the top of rue Rossetti. The hotel courtyards, lounge areas and gardens are open to the public and I highly recommend a visit to this unique place.

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Special Offers!

Hello fans of Nice Uncovered! I’m so grateful for your support I’d like to offer you the opportunity to take a self-guided audio tour of Unesco Nice FOR FREE! I put together this audio tour for voicemap.me because I think more people should know about Nice’s remarkable urban and architectural heritage. From the edges of Cours Saleya along the Promenade des Anglais and through the prestigious Carre d’Or neighborhood I’ll take you through the seascapes, parks, villas, churches and architectural landmarks that made Nice the pride of the Riviera. ( More info here )

How to do it? Leave me a message in the Chat on the bottom of this page and I will send you the code for a free voucher which you will enter here: https://voicemap.me/tour/nice/navigating-nice-s-belle-epoque-a-guide-to-the-unesco-heritage-city. Just download the voicemap.me app and instead of paying for the tour you enter the voucher code. It’s easy! And you’ll have fun exploring a part of Nice that deserves its place in the sun.

And here’s another idea for free fun. Although it’s not been well publicized the Massena Museum in Nice has mounted a virtual reality experience of the disappeared Casino de la Jetée Promenade . This outstanding pleasure palace on the sea was destroyed by German occupiers in 1944 but now you can see what all the fuss was about on this virtual reality reconstruction. It’s free but you do need to reserve a spot which you can do here 

The reservation page is in French but the experience is in French or English.

You’re welcome!

Now if you could do me a small favor. . .Have you left a rating for Nice Uncovered: Walks Through the Secret Heart of a Historic City on Amazon? It would REALLY help me a lot if you could do so! You can leave your rating (and review if you like) on Amazon.com or Amazon.fr depending on where you bought the book.

Thanks so much!

NEW! Audio Tour of Unesco Nice

Why did Unesco designate Nice a World Heritage Site? You’ll find out on this brand new immersive audio tour I produced through voicemap.me: Navigating Nice’s Belle Epoque: A Guide to the Unesco Heritage City .  On this unique 75-minute tour we’ll trace the development of Nice as a winter resort from the mid-19th century onwards. Did you know that nearly every inch of central Nice outside the Old Town was designed to maximize the comfort and pleasure of holiday-makers?

From the edges of Cours Saleya along the Promenade des Anglais and through the prestigious Carre d’Or neighborhood I’ll show you the seascapes, parks, villas, churches and architectural landmarks that made Nice the pride of the Riviera. You’ll see how Nice blossomed from a medieval town to a glamorous resort city. And, you’ll marvel at the finest examples of  Nice’s wondrous architectural heritage from neo-Gothic to neo-Classical, Belle Epoque and Art Deco buildings.

It’s so easy to follow a self-guided audio tour at your own pace.

• Download the FREE audio tour VoiceMap app for iPhones or Android devices. via Apple AppStore or Google Play’s store.
• Install it on your smartphone 
• Once you’ve downloaded the app, set up an account
• Look for the tour, Navigating Nice’s Belle Epoque: A Guide to the Unesco Heritage City
• Pay for the tour ($6.99)
• Download the tour to your fully charged smartphone. The audio will be available offline along with an offline map.
• The tour is location aware, so you will hear directions and stories as you move.
• You can put your phone away; the audio triggers automatically
• Pause anytime and take as many pictures as you please!

SPECIAL OFFER FOR THOSE WHO PURCHASED NICE UNCOVERED! You can do this tour FOR FREE! Contact me for details.

Follow me as we

• Walk in the footsteps of the first vacationing Brits who built the Promenade des Anglais • Find out how British, American, and even Russian visitors helped shape Nice’s urban landscape • Discover the earliest seaside strolls that inspired the Promenade • See where famous folks like Matisse, Chekhov and Nietzsche lived and worked • Learn about the classic hotels where the town’s earliest aristocratic visitors stayed • Hear the stories that all locals know including Nice’s most famous murder mystery • Gaze upon the Protestant church built by the Vanderbilt family and the Orthodox church built by a Russian Tsarina • Admire the Defly building’s ‘trompe l’oeil facade’

You’ll discover the city’s quirky side including why palm trees made their appearance, the story of the Roman martyr who gave the Baie des Anges its name, the real reason the Monument du Centenaire was built, and the spot where the glorious Casino de la Jetée once was.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor, repeat visitor or a curious local, the story of 19th-20th-century Nice will come alive. 

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A Walking Tour Old Town Nice

By Margo Lestz:

While in Nice, I decided to put together a little walking tour of the Old Town (Vieux Nice) . It’s a route that you can follow to see most of the historic sites (with lots of shops and restaurants along the way).

Vieux Nice on Foot

Nice’s Old Town is where it all started. At one time this was the entire city, and that’s why so much of Nice’s history is concentrated in this small area.

The walking tour is designed to go along with my book, Curious Histories of Nice, France, but, of course, it can be used without it. The book, however, goes into much more detail about the quirky history and characters of the city. At the end of each section, I list the page number in the book for the associated story. Enjoy your walk through the Old Town! Continue reading here for Margo’s blog post and her suggestions for key places to visit in Old Nice.

Climb the hill for the views. If the magical float in the sea wasn’t enough to delight you, check out the view from the Parc de la Colline du Chateau . While there hasn’t been a castle there for quite some time, the park that towers above the Promenade des Anglais is majestic. On one side is the harbour, where giant ships transport people to Corsica and fishermen park their brightly-coloured boats. On the other, the Promenade and the beachfront, where people amble on the sidewalk or go topless on the beach. Although, the virgin is missing…

Must See Old and New Nice

A visit to Nice starts and ends with the Promenade des Anglais. The celebrated seven (7)-kilometre coastal boulevard between the sea and palm trees offers superb views of the Bay of Nice and gives the city its unique identity. The openness and long span of the uninterrupted path gives a sense of freedom and space that is found nowhere else in the city. The history of the Promenade des Anglais dates back to the 19 th  century .

For over a century the striking  Hotel Negresco has been the favourite holiday destination for celebrities, royalty, millionaires, and politicians. This magnificent belle-époque building, instantly recognizable by its pink domed roof, stands proudly on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. The hotel celebrated its centennial in 2013. Five centuries of French history are visible (in the art and furnishings) in its fine suites, where portraits of Kings and Queens rub shoulders with more contemporary works by Sosno, Dali, Gruau, Moretti and Nike de Saint Phalle.

A good place to start your exploration of Vieux Nice is the colourful daily market on the Cours Saleya. Next, stroll along the old streets where you’ll find Baroque churches including Cathédrale Ste-Réparate and Gésu, renaissance Palaces and attractive squares before relaxing in the colourful Place Rossetti.

Nice is home to four penitent churches which continue to pursue community-minded initiatives today. Appearing in the city in the 14th century, the Penitents are among Nice’s oldest benevolent associations. According to ancient criteria, each church had a different mission and dress colour.

The most impressive square in Nice is the grandiose red ochre Place Masséna with its controversial Apollo Fountain and its amazing Conversation of Nice, a series of sculptures by the Catalan artist Jaume Plensa. Go after sunset to watch the ‘conversation’ take place but keep your wits about you as the Ligne d’Azur trams glide silently through the Square!

Nicoise Cuisine

Viktorija Todorovska of Sip Taste Share knows a thing or two about food and wine. This is what she has to say about Nicoise cuisine:

“For years, I came to Nice every chance I got. It wasn’t just for its luminescence, warm sunshine and beautiful landscape. It was her flavours: delectable, often surprising, and always memorable. And the people who made my favourite dishes: full of soul and personality, their passion infusing every bite. Now that I live here, I still visit my all-time favourites, the familiar flavours like old friends always revisited with pleasure.”

Discover the tasty street food in Nice  and some rosé.

Good news! There are plenty of options for vegetarian and vegan dining on the French Riviera

Walking can work up an appetite. Here, are some recipes for a few Nicoise classics:

Pan Bagnat might just look like a sandwich, however, to those who have visited Nice it is anything but. This recipe may start with ordinary bread, but it ends with delicious

A non-traditional warm salad Nicoise . The ingredients (tuna, olives, eggs, peppers and anchovies) are the same as the traditional cold version of this salad.

And, the classic salade Nicoise . An authentic Niçoise salad is made with raw vegetables; only the eggs are cooked. You have anchovies or tuna, never the two. However, as tuna is expensive and this is a popular dish you might prefer to use anchovies unless you do not like them. I use anchovies in salt and clean them myself leaving the skin as it seems to me they taste better that way.

Socca a traditional chickpea flour “pancake” is served hot.

A Sweet way to cook with Swiss Chard – La Tourte aux Blette Sucrée . Swiss chard may not be something you typically think of for baking. However, the subtle flavour of this vegetable adds texture to this sweet snack. Dusted with sugar this square is perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Margo Lestz

Margo is a British/American who has lived in Nice, France for the past nine years. She loves digging into the history of an area and discovering the tales behind local customs and traditions. She blogs about her discoveries on The Curious Rambler . She is also the author of two books, French Holidays & Traditions, and Curious Histories of Nice, France. Click here for Margo's books. She describes herself as a perpetual student and is always taking some kind of course or researching a moment in history that has caught her fancy. She’s curious by nature and always wondering who, what, why, when, where, and how. Margo shares her adventures (and her questions) with Jeff, her husband of many years. She enjoys travel, history, observing cultures and traditions – and then writing about them, of course.

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tours in Nice, France

Guided free walking tours.

Book free guided walking tours in Nice.

Guided Sightseeing Tours

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Nice.

Explore Nice in France with one of our free walking tours . Click on a marker on the map to get started and view details about the tour. Below is an overview of the sightseeing tours. A total of 12 tours are available in Nice, France.

GuruWalk: Your magical tour: from Nice to Villefranche✨ (the jewel of the French Riviera).

GuruWalk: Welcome to Nice the Beautiful - a tour of Old Town and Castle Hill by Walkative!

GuruWalk: Discover the Old Town and the Castle Hill with a profesional tour guide ✨

GuruWalk: Free Nice Walking Tour Around Nice Old Town and Castle Hill

Freetour: Free Nice Walking Tour Around Nice Old Town in English

Freetour: Historical and informative walking tour of Nice at free price!

Freetour: Welcome to Beautiful Nice - Tour by Walkative!

Freetour: Night Walking Tour of Nice

Self-guided Tour #1

• Parc Valrose - Université Côte d'Azur - Faculté des Sciences
• Monument à la reine Victoria
• Arènes de Cimiez
• Musée Matisse
• Thermes romains de Cimiez
• Musée d'Archéologie de Nice-Cimiez
• Croix séraphique de Cimiez
• Musée Franciscain

Self-guided Tour #2

• Théâtre de Verdure
• Monument du Centenaire
• Fontaine des Tritons
• Neuf lignes obliques
• Opéra de Nice
• Palais Hongran
• Promenade du Paillon
• Tour de l'Horloge
• Palais d'York
• Palais de la Préfecture, ancien palais des rois de Sardaigne
• Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
• Chapelle de la Miséricorde
• Chapelle de la Très-Sainte-Trinité et du Saint-Suaire
• Galerie de la Marine
• Monument aux morts de Rauba-Capèu
• Statue de Charles-Félix
• Caserne Lympia (ancienne)
• Musée Terra Amata

Self-guided Tour #3

• Immeuble Gloria Mansions
• Marie Bashkirtseff
• Musée Masséna
• Colonne du pape Pie VII
• Croix de Marbre
• Immeuble Garacci-Bensa
• Basilique Notre-Dame
• Chapelle Sainte-Croix
• Chapelle de la Visitation
• Lycée Masséna
• Tour Saint-François
• Chapelle du Saint-Sépulcre
• Monument à Garibaldi

Self-guided Tour #4

• Cathédrale orthodoxe russe de Saint-Nicolas
• Chapelle du Tsarevich
• Villa El Patio
• Parc d'Estienne d'Orves
• Église Saint-Philippe
• Palais Meyerbeer
• Holy Trinity Anglican Church
• Palais Baréty
• Église Protestante Unie de Nice Saint-Esprit
• Bibliothèque Raoul Mille
• Musée Marc Chagall

Why Visit Sights? Self-guided sightseeing tours are a free and safe alternative to bus tours. You can explore Nice at your own pace, any time! Do something good for your health by walking.

One day in Nice – top things to do

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Here's what's in store for you

Visiting Nice, France – A 24-hour itinerary

We can’t always have the luxury of time when travelling. Sometimes having just 1 day in a city is better than skipping it completely. Nice is one of those places where you can easily hit the highlights in one day. Read on to find the guide on spending one day in Nice including top things to do, best areas to stay at and a detailed itinerary.

We visited Nice on a weekend trip which also included Cannes & Monaco! Like I said, you don’t always have the luxury of time and visiting the French Riviera was too good an opportunity to pass up!

Overview of Nice

Nice is located in the French Riviera, at the most south-eastern tip of France. It’s the second-largest city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region and is the confluence between the Alps, Provence, Corsica and Italy.

Best time to visit

But seriously, Nice has a mild Mediterranean climate that makes it fantastic for a visit anytime of the year. If you really want to swim in the Mediterranean Sea, aim for the Summer.

Getting there

By air : The international airport in Nice is one of the largest airports in France, second only to Paris! The Nice airport is located about 7 km from the city and you can take a bus or taxi/ Uber.

By train : The main train station in Nice is the Gare de Nice-Ville. If you are travelling from Paris/ Lyon or any other major city chances are you will land here. The station is located only about 1 km from the city centre so you can easily walk there.

The other 2 train stations in Nice are Riquier and St Augustin. Our train for Cannes and Monaco was from the St Augustin station. (Which we didn’t know and reached the main train station and then had to rush in an Uber to the right station!)

You could also take the bus or drive or take a boat!

Best areas to stay at

Check out the itinerary below and try and find your stay so that you can walk between the sightseeing locations as well as the train stations. Some of the areas to consider include Jean-Medecin or Old Nice.

Here’s the walking map to cover the best places to visit in Nice. See below to read our experience in Nice following this map.

Our experience – One day in Nice

We took the Ouigo train from Lyon for this trip. Ouigo is a fantastic train service – at a fraction of the cost of the TGV but taking the same time!

Since we were travelling only with our backpacks, we started our day sightseeing soon as we arrived at Gare de Nice-Ville. Our first stop was the Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe St-Nicolas.

Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe St-Nicolas

This beautiful cathedral is the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe. It will make you feel as if you are in Moscow – well, not really, but it’s great to look at nonetheless!

Next we headed to the city center taking a stroll through the Avenue Jean-Medecin which is lined with stores and restaurants. It is a delightfully bustling market area and we spent some time checking out the shops. After all, coming from Switzerland everything seemed so much cheaper in France!

Place Masséna

The Avenue Jean-Medecin ends at the historic square of Nice, the Place Masséna. Public events, from concerts to sports events are held at this square. We were fascinated by the architecture of the buildings surrounding the square – the red facades and the arches make for a splendid sight. Also really engaging are the quirky statues placed high above on metal poles. These seven statues called  ‘Conversation in Nice’ represent the seven continents. These are lit up in different colours at night which gives the square a wonderful, magical feel.

At the end of the square is Fontaine du Soleil or the Fountain of the Sun – an exquisite structure based on Greek mythology. It contains five bronze statues representing Earth, Mars, Venus, Saturn and Mercury surrounding a tall statue of Apollo.

If you keep walking straight from the Fontaine du Soleil, you will reach the Promenade des Anglais, however, we first wanted to take in the old town. We took a left from the fountain and walked into the old town.

Old Nice or Vieille Ville

We’ve visited many, many old towns across European cities and while we’ve been charmed by most, the old town in Nice blew us away by how vibrant and colourful it was! We spent a long time just roaming up and down the streets of Vieille Ville taking in some of the famous sights such as the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate , Place Rossetti and the Fenocchio ice cream parlour (they serve 90+ flavours and the ones we tried – Rose, Chocolate – were super delicious!). Place Rossetti is also a great place to grab dinner.

We also stopped for a bite of Socca, a chickpea crepe that is famous in the region. It was quite yummy though it was almost exactly like an Indian besan chilla!

Cours Saleya Market

The Cours Saleya street in the old town, lined with cafes and restaurants, is one of the liveliest in Nice. It hosts a bustling market of flowers, fruits and vegetables. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, walking down the market taking in the fragrance of the flowers makes for a delightful experience.

Castle Hill or Parc de la Colline du Château

Castle Hill is located at the end of the old town. Originally a fortress, it is now a beautiful park. It is the perfect spot to get beautiful, panoramic pictures of the French Riviera. For such a fantastic reward though, you need to put in some effort – there are 200+ steps to reach the top of the hill. And yes, there is an elevator – a little bit hidden – which could make life easier. But, when we were there this elevator was not working. We debated a lot about making the climb but ultimately my laziness won the day and we decided the views were fine from along the road anyway!

We took a long walk along the road overlooking the sea – it was absolutely beautiful. Turning back we headed to the Promenade des Anglais, the most famous seafront in Nice

Promenade des Anglais

This iconic boulevard is a landmark of Nice, and quite rightly so. With direct access to the beach and lined with palm trees, restaurants and cafes, this vast, paved promenade offers something for everyone. 

When we went in March, the beach was filled with people sunbathing and swimming. Since we didn’t fancy doing either of those, we were content with walking along the promenade enjoying the view of the deep blue sea.

We were bushed by the end of the day but ventured back into the old town for a pizza and another ice cream at Fenocchio!

Have you spent a day in Nice? What has been your favourite part?

Are you planning a visit? Let me know if you have any questions.

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TRAVEL RESOURCES

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ACCOMMODATION – Booking.com  is my favourite platform for hotel or apartment bookings. I love their map interface (I prefer to stay within walking distance of major attractions!) and they have an excellent customer service

FLIGHTS – I prefer to use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. I often use their monthly view of prices to decide my travel dates!

TOURS & ACTIVITIES – Get Your Guide  is my go-to choice for fun tours and activities. They have a wide range of options and a great interface.

TRAVEL INSURANCE –  Travel insurance is absolutely essential for all your international travels. I’ve been saved by it a few times when I fell sick while travelling and I swear by it since then! World Nomads is an excellent choice for travel insurance.

39 Comments

Definitely we are adding Nice to our bucket list 🙂 Thank you for sharing your guide.

Glad that I was able to inspire you for Nice! 🙂

I didn’t even get to spend a whole day, only a couple of hours in Nice, so I really need to go back and do it justice. Old Nice part of town sounds so charming. Love your post.

I loved Nice when I visited back in 2015. There’s so much to do and you nailed it with these great suggestions.

Thanks, we loved our time in Nice too, limited as it was!

This is an excellent guide to Nice! I went to France a few years back and had to really dig to find what train stations there were and how close they were to things. But you have all the information right there! I may have to start planning my next trip to France!

Thanks, Angie! Train stations are the first places I locate in any new European city I’m headed to 🙂

Nice has always been a bucket list travel destination. And, this just makes me want to go sooner!

Hope you get to travel to Nice soon!

Your pictures always draw me in and make me want to jump on a plane! Nice looks like a beautiful part of France to visit. I had never even considered this as a part of France to visit. I always think automatically of Paris first. It is fun to learn about other areas of a country.

Thanks, Erica! For me too France and Paris are inextricably linked, however, quite recently I’ve realized the charm of other French cities – Lyon and Nice have both been stunning.

Never been to France but if i have plans in the future i would sure as hell have an a place to tour solo at. https://daysdreamt.blogspot.com

It’s a great place, you should give it a shot!

I hope to visit Nice next year for marathon, you guide makes me impatient! It is so well thought!

Ooh a marathon, sounds awesome! Have a good trip!

Thank you for sharing and the pictures are so inviting and motivating. I’m planning a visit there next summer too.

Hope you have a great trip!

This place looks so beautiful at night! ? i need to experience this someday!

It really was even prettier by night than it was by day!

A lovely post and a great guide for someone planning to visit Nice. We had missed out last time we were in France. Nice pictures of a beautiful place.

Thanks, Subhashish! I made it there quite recently too – despite spending months in France a few years ago!

I’ve heard a lot about Nice but never thought of visiting, you have just given me a reason to go visit. http://www.thecozyme.com

You should definitely add it to your list – it’s a fantastic place!

Beautiful pictures! it’s good to know that Nice is one of those places we can explore in one day. Excellent guide on how to spend one day in Nice.

Thanks Norma!

Nice is on my bucket list and you just made it look so perfect!! Ahhh might have to add a day or two to our trip to France next month to visit

It’s an absolutely wonderful place! You could try cycling/ driving/ taking the train to some of the nearby towns too if you have the time. It’s a beautiful region.

Nice really lived up to its name! It’s nice and even more! It’s good that you took the time to visit it even for a short while. You did see and do quiet a lot for a 24 hour trip.

I agree, Nice is very nice!

Man, your pictures are breathtaking! I’m not much for historical tours anymore and just would prefer to do the mountains and the hill climb to the fortress and the ocean. Anything and everything outdoors in nature. It’s great that you show the best of both worlds. What a life!

I prefer nature to city sights too – but ones that don’t require too much exertion! I’m not there yet on my fitness levels!

I love your photos. So bright and colourful! It’s made me want to visit Nice again. Hopefully one day!

Thanks Kelly!

I’ve never been to Nice – are those amazing lights (the bodies) temporary? I love them! So unique. I’m it’s good to know they have a train station. I’m going to look into this further!

Aren’t those lights so unique?! They are a permanent fixture – created by a Spanish artist a few years ago.

That beach looks so relaxing and beautiful! I would love to travel to France one day. I’ve never heard of the city Nice (and I’m curious about how you pronounce it!) but it seems like a beautiful city!

Nice is one of the gems of the French Riviera – a bit touristy, but very charming nevertheless. It’s pronounced with an e sound: N-ee-s.

Wow, Nice seems even more stunning than I would have expected. I’d say you could spend a week there without running out of sights to visit. Thanks for picking the top spots!

You could indeed spend a week easily enjoying the city and the nearby areas – Cannes, Monaco etc. are just a short train ride away!

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Gruezi, Hi! My name is Smita, a part-time traveller and a travel writer. So far I’ve been what you might call a serendipitous traveller! I got a chance to visit several amazing places more by chance than by design. I would love to put all my extensive travel planning to good use by sharing it with you and hope that these inspire you to visit all those famous, and not-so-famous locations! Read More

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TRÈSNICE: DAILY SMALL GROUP WALKING TOURS

The best way to see the beautiful old town of nice, tickets 28€ per person, tours at 9:30am + 2:00pm booking required, 10 people max per walking tour, english language tours only, trèsnice: morning and afternoon walking tours of nice .

Our daily 2 hour walk through the Old Town is packed full of great stories and beautiful places ,  carefully chosen so that by the end you’ll know how to find your way around ;  have up-to-date   tips on activities and places to eat ;  and have built up a picture of Nice’s unique history and culture – not French, not Italian, but something all its own.

We’ll meet near the arches  at the entrance to the Old Town  (Google maps)  and zigzag our way through the narrow streets of Vieux Nice at a leisurely pace, before  concluding our tour in Place Garibaldi .

We recommend you  take this tour early on in your visit  so you can learn your way around and use our advice to make the rest of your stay in Nice special!

TRÈSNICE TOURS RATED EXCELLENT ON TRIPADVISOR!

“Wonderful tour! Book now!”  One of my very favorite experiences in Nice was my walking tour with TresNice in Old Town …

M EETING POINT FOR TRÈSNICE SMALL GROUP TOURS IS 77-85 Quai des États-Unis . Your guide will meet you next to the arches shown in the image below.

trèsNice Tours Meeting Place

Tour status: running as scheduled, but booking is essential.

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French Riviera Pass

Put on your walking shoes and explore the sublime landscapes of the Nice Côte d’Azur region

Climb to the highest peaks on a discovery walk or a more athletic hike. Wherever you are, let yourself be transported by the spectacular views offered by nature.

To walk the Nice Côte d’Azur hiking trails is to discover the richness of this territory and to be surprised by the panoramas between sea and mountain.

Hiking trails or discovery walks, starting points accessible by private vehicle and public transport, set off on the trails of Nice Côte d’Azur.

To each his own! 🧭

Don’t forget what a good hiker does before setting off: check the opening of trails and keep up to date with the latest news , check the weather conditions, and if you’re going alone, tell someone you know. 

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