Nice at a glance
Nice delights the visitor with its flower market, stunning coastline, beachfront bars and fabulous shopping. It is the unofficial capital of the Cote d’Azure, or as it is widely known, the French Riviera.
Framed by the picturesque Mediterranean Sea and the distant Ligurian Alps, Nice gained popularity during the latter half of the 18th century when English aristocratic families began to increasingly spend their winters abroad in the temperate region. Today, the mild climate continues to attract visitors seeking the beautiful vistas of the famous Promenade des Anglais, the city’s main seaside attraction.
Charming, aged city streets in the old town provide a host of fashionable shops, cafés and galleries to enjoy in the shadow of historic terracotta houses. The pedestrianised street of Cours Saleya offers visitors a true taste of the old town when the wonderful colour and scents of the flower market flood the square every morning in true Nice la Belle style.
Perfect if you’re looking for:
- Beachfront attractions
- High end shopping
- Art and culture
Getting around
The scenic coastline of Nice is best enjoyed by foot along the Promenade des Anglais. Most of the popular sites are located within the city centre and easily accessible by foot.
Public transport in Nice consists of a bus and train network. There is also a tram that connects the suburbs to the city centre.
Shopping
Nice is home to some of the fashion industry’s most renowned brands such as Chanel and Sonia Rykiel and high end designer labels are the focus of many of the boutiques and larger shops in the city.
Looking for something other than the latest fashion trends? Explore one of the city’s many open air markets, selling everything from flowers and fresh produce to handcrafted soap, artwork and souvenirs.
Dining in Nice
With a notable appreciation for French culinary expertise, Nice combines the best of Mediterranean flavours to produce its own take on regional favourites with the addition of some of its own creations as well.
Dishes tend to focus on fresh produce and seafood, often seasoned with herbs and olive oil popular to the region.
Must-try local dishes:
- Salad Niçoise – a quintessential Nice salad with lettuce, hard boiled eggs, olives, french beans and potatoes, often topped with anchovies and sometimes tuna
- Socca – a thin, chickpea bread that is crispy on the edges and custard-like inside
- Pissaladière – a thick, pizza-like bread topped with onions, garlic and anchovies
Osprey Holidays top tips
Head to the Cours Saleya in the old city first thing in the morning in order to experience the wonderful colour and scents of the flower market and adjoining fruit and vegetable market.
For amazing coastal views, head up Castle Hill, although visitors must climb steep steps, there is a free elevator for an easier way up!
Get your tailor-made city break itinerary
Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Nice designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:
- All travel and transfers on days of your choice
- Accommodation from our handpicked range of Nice hotels, to suit your budget and requirements
Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.
- Important information
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Population 344,875 Languages French Currency Euro Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens - Average temperatures
(monthly highs °C)
- Interesting facts
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Wander through the streets of the Old Town (Vieux Nice) to find the best local restaurants and most interesting shops.
- Featured accommodation
- Distance from airports
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Nice 6km
- Railway stations
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Gare de Nice-Ville