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    Nice

    Nice

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    4. Côte d'Azur
    5. Nice
    As the unofficial capital of the Côte d'Azur, Nice captivates with its famous Promenade des Anglais, a charming Old Town, and a vibrant art scene.
    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
    • Eat & drink
    • Culture
    • Nightlife
    • Getting around
    • Accommodation
    • Plan trip
    • Nearby
    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
    • Eat & drink
    • Culture
    • Nightlife
    • Getting around
    • Accommodation
    • Plan trip
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    Overview

    Nice on the Côte d'Azur combines Mediterranean lifestyle with urban elegance and a noticeable Italian influence. Along the world-famous Promenade des Anglais, you can enjoy long strolls with views of the azure sea. The winding streets of Vieux Nice lead you to the lively flower market at Cours Saleya, where you can also sample local specialties like Socca. From the Colline du Château, an impressive panoramic view unfolds over the Old Town's rooftops, the harbor, and the expansive bay. The city, French only since 1860, houses significant art museums such as the Musée Matisse and the Musée Marc Chagall, offering insights into the region's artistic heritage. For a mild climate and more pleasant explorations away from the largest tourist crowds, the months of April to June, as well as September and October, are ideal.

    Places in Nice

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Sights in Nice

    1Riviera & Tours

    The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, has been a place of longing for travelers worldwide since the 19th century. From Nice, the historic heart of the region with its Italian-style alleys and the famous Cours Saleya, you can explore the diverse facets of this coast. The name “Riviera & Tours” represents the opportunity to discover the unique blend of glamorous cities, medieval hilltop villages, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.You'll experience a region here that inspired artists like Matisse and Picasso and has retained its charm to this day. Expect picturesque views of the Mediterranean, historic sites, and a rich culture. Tours often lead to highlights such as the Principality of Monaco, the picturesque village of Èze with its exotic garden, or the sophisticated cities of Cannes and Antibes. Each of these destinations offers its own story and unique impressions.Our Tip: To avoid the crowds and enjoy the pleasant climate, a visit during the off-season, such as spring or autumn, is recommended. Choose a tour that gives you enough time to explore small alleys away from the main routes and to sample local specialties. For unforgettable photos, the panoramic roads above the coast are ideal, especially the Corniches between Nice and Menton.
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    2Mobilboard Nice Location de vélo et vélo électrique, Location de trottinette électrique / Visite guidée en Segway et vélo

    Mobilboard Nice offers you the opportunity to explore the city in an active and flexible way. Here you can rent bicycles, e-bikes, or e-scooters or join a guided Segway tour. These modes of transport allow you to efficiently experience the famous Promenade des Anglais, the narrow streets of the Old Town (Vieux Nice), and historical districts like Cimiez. The Old Town, with its baroque churches and the lively Cours Saleya, is particularly well-accessible by bike or scooter, as cars are often restricted there. A tour along the coast also offers breathtaking views of the Baie des Anges and its surroundings. Our tip: Rent your vehicle early in the morning to take advantage of the pleasant temperatures and avoid the biggest tourist crowds. It is advisable to plan a route that covers both the coast and the historic center to get a comprehensive picture of Nice.
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    3Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice

    The Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice is an architectural jewel and an unexpected sight in the heart of the French Riviera. As the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside Russia, it was built between 1903 and 1912 to serve Nice's growing Russian community and to honor the memory of Tsarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich, who died in Nice in 1865. You will immediately be struck by its six distinctive onion domes with their colorful tiles and golden cupolas, forming a stark contrast to the city's Mediterranean architecture. Inside, a lavish interior awaits you, with numerous icons, frescoes, and elaborate decorations reflecting the rich tradition of Russian Orthodox art. Pay attention to the detailed wood carvings and the iconostasis, which separates the sanctuary from the nave. A practical tip: The best time to visit the cathedral is in the morning, shortly after opening, to experience the tranquility and special atmosphere without large crowds. Remember that appropriate attire (shoulders and knees covered) is expected, as it is an active place of worship.
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    4Promenade du Paillon

    The Promenade du Paillon is Nice's green lung and a central recreational area that significantly shapes the cityscape. It was created over the covered Paillon river, replacing a former bus station, thereby establishing an expansive park in the heart of the city. Here you'll find extensive lawns, themed play areas for children, including the popular Whale Fountain, as well as the impressive Water Mirror with its 128 water jets and mist nozzles. This urban oasis connects the Old Town with the Théâtre de Verdure and Place Masséna, offering both locals and visitors alike space for relaxation and encounters. Our tip: Visit the Promenade early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and experience the water features in their full glory before the largest crowds arrive. In the evenings, the Water Mirror is often illuminated, providing a beautiful backdrop for strolls. For families with children, the play area around the Whale Fountain is a highlight.
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    5Cimiez-Kloster

    The Cimiez Monastery (Monastère de Cimiez) in Nice is a historically significant site, built upon the ruins of a Roman settlement. Franciscan monks settled here in the 16th century, but the church's origins date back to the 9th century. Here you'll find an impressive church with works by Louis Bréa and a small museum that sheds light on the history of the order and the monastery. The adjacent monastery garden is particularly worth seeing, offering a tranquil retreat and providing panoramic views over Nice. In the nearby cemetery, famous personalities like Henri Matisse and Raoul Dufy are buried, which gives the site an additional cultural dimension. Our Tip: Visit the monastery in the morning to enjoy the tranquility of the garden and explore the artists' graves in peace. Combine your visit with the nearby Matisse Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Cimiez for a comprehensive insight into the history and art of the region. The monastery garden is also an excellent spot for a short break and offers beautiful photo opportunities.
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    6Promenade du Paillon

    The Promenade du Paillon is Nice's green lung and a central recreational area that significantly shapes the cityscape. It was created over the covered Paillon river, replacing a former bus station, thereby establishing an expansive park in the heart of the city. Here you'll find extensive lawns, themed play areas for children, including the popular Whale Fountain, as well as the impressive Water Mirror with its 128 water jets and mist nozzles. This urban oasis connects the Old Town with the Théâtre de Verdure and Place Masséna, offering both locals and visitors alike space for relaxation and encounters. Our tip: Visit the Promenade early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and experience the water features in their full glory before the largest crowds arrive. In the evenings, the Water Mirror is often illuminated, providing a beautiful backdrop for strolls. For families with children, the play area around the Whale Fountain is a highlight.
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    City walks in Nice

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights — handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Nizzas Charme: Eine Promenade durch die Altstadt und zur Bucht der Engel

    Entdecken Sie das Herz Nizzas auf diesem malerischen Spaziergang. Von den lebhaften Plätzen der Innenstadt tauchen Sie ein in die verwinkelten Gassen der Altstadt, bevor Sie atemberaubende Ausblicke vom Schlossberg genießen und entlang der berühmten Promenade des Anglais flanieren. Ein perfekter Mix aus Kultur, Geschichte und mediterranem Flair in etwa zwei Stunden.

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    Dining & Drinking

    Culture, Art and History

    Nice's rich culture, art, and history are deeply rooted in its geographic location and eventful past. The city, originally founded as the Greek settlement **Nikaia** and later a significant Roman outpost (Cimiez), boasts over 2000 years of history. For centuries, Nice belonged to the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont under the House of Savoy, before being annexed by France in 1860.These historical influences continue to shape the cityscape and local traditions today. The architecture of **Vieux Nice**, the Old Town, bears distinct Italian features with baroque churches and narrow streets. The **Belle Époque** left behind magnificent hotels and villas along the Promenade des Anglais, reflecting the rise of tourism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Culturally, Nice has preserved its own identity, visible in the Niçois dialect (Nissart) and festivals like the famous Carnival. Moreover, the city was and is a magnet for artists; museums are dedicated to greats like Matisse and Chagall, who lived and worked here.

    Nightlife

    Once the sun sets, Nice becomes a vibrant stage for night owls. From stylish cocktail bars in Old Town Vieux Nice to trendy clubs on the Promenade des Anglais, the city offers a wide choice. Enjoy relaxed evenings in cozy pubs, or dance to international DJ beats in lively venues.

    Getting Around in Nice

    Nice is excellent for exploring on foot, but for longer distances and airport transfers, an efficient public transport network is available. Modern trams and numerous bus lines connect all key points of the city, making sightseeing much easier. Regional trains also allow for quick excursions along the Côte d'Azur.

    Accommodations in Nice

    Accommodations in Nice

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    Locations nearby

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    Côte d'Azur

    Côte d'Azur

    The Côte d'Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is one of the world's most glamorous coastal regions, renowned for its azure sea, luxurious beaches, and vibrant cultural life. From elegant cities like Nice and Cannes to picturesque mountain villages and the independent Principality of Monaco, it offers an irresistible blend of Mediterranean flair, art, and exclusive lifestyle.
    Nice

    Nice

    Nice combines Mediterranean flair with urban elegance and rich history. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais and enjoy views of the azure sea. The Old Town (Vieux Nice) captivates with its narrow streets, baroque buildings, and the lively Cours Saleya. From the Colline du Château, enjoy panoramic views over the Baie des Anges. For a relaxed exploration, a visit in spring or autumn is recommended.
    Èze

    Èze

    Èze is a picturesque medieval village, perched high above the Côte d'Azur, distinguished by its unique location. Here you'll find narrow, winding streets that snake around the rock, creating a special atmosphere. The Jardin Exotique at the highest point offers not only an impressive collection of cacti and succulents but also spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Èze is historically significant due to its long history, dating back to Roman times, and as a place where Friedrich Nietzsche found inspiration. Explore the remnants of the medieval castle and the charming artisan shops in the old stone houses. For a relaxed visit, early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the largest tourist crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone paths can be steep and uneven.
    Monaco

    Monaco

    Monaco is a sovereign principality on the French Riviera, known for its opulent lifestyle and stunning coastal scenery. On the Rock of Monaco-Ville, its historic core, you'll find the Prince's Palace, the Cathedral, and the famous Oceanographic Museum. In the Monte-Carlo district, the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Hôtel de Paris define the image of high society, complemented by the Formula 1 circuit's route. The Grimaldi dynasty has ruled the principality for centuries, shaping its unique history as a meeting point for international celebrities. To explore the narrow streets of Monaco-Ville in peace, a morning visit is recommended. Utilize the numerous public lifts and escalators to comfortably traverse the hilly city and enjoy spectacular views.
    Antibes Juan-les-Pins

    Antibes Juan-les-Pins

    Antibes Juan-les-Pins on the Côte d'Azur blends historic charm with modern coastal flair. In Vieil Antibes, you'll discover winding alleyways, the lively Marché Provençal, and the Musée Picasso in Château Grimaldi, which was once Picasso's studio. The impressive Port Vauban, one of Europe's largest marinas, captivates with its luxury yachts and the Fort Carré fortress. Juan-les-Pins beckons with fine sandy beaches and a vibrant nightlife, particularly evident during the annual Jazz à Juan Festival. A stroll along the picturesque Cap d'Antibes also reveals exclusive villas and expansive views of the Mediterranean Sea. For a more relaxed experience, a visit in spring or autumn is recommended to explore the city without the summer crowds.