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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Nice

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Feb 10, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

At the heart of the French Riviera and bordering the Provence countryside, Nice is conveniently close to many popular tourist attractions that make rewarding day trips.

The essence of the dreamy Côte d'Azur is found in the glamorous royal city-state of Monaco and the sumptuous villas of Cap-Ferrat and Beaulieu-sur-Mer that overlook dazzling, deep-blue Mediterranean waters.

An appealing Mediterranean lifestyle and artistic heritage distinguish Cagnes-sur-Mer and Saint-Paul de Vence , which boast outstanding Impressionist art museums.

To discover the most charming little communities of Provence , travelers can continue on to the medieval hilltop villages of Haut-de-Cagnes and Grasse , or, in the other direction, to Peillon and Peille .

Balmy weather and stunning coastal scenery create the perfect holiday experience in Cannes and Antibes , two of the most famous places to visit on the French Riviera . These popular seaside destinations (along with Monaco) are often included on organized tours from Nice.

From quaint country towns to posh seaside resorts, the attractions and plentiful things to do around Nice make visitors want to extend their stay. Plan your adventures with our list of the top day trips from Nice.

3. Saint-Paul de Vence

5. villa ephrussi (in cap-ferrat), 6. villa kérylos (in beaulieu-sur-mer), 7. villefranche-sur-mer, 8. cagnes-sur-mer, 9. gorges des alpes-maritimes driving tour, 10. antibes beaches, 11. perfume factories and gorgeous gardens in grasse, 12. peillon and peille: picturesque hilltop villages.

Perhaps the most glamorous spot on the French Riviera, the small city-state of Monaco has a special mystique.

The Principality of Monaco has many unique characteristics: a royal family of the Grimaldi dynasty, its own language called Monegasque (Munegascu), distinctive culinary specialties, and even its own world-class ballet company.

Monaco is a place of spectacular beauty, from its picture-perfect harbor filled with luxurious yachts to the royal palace perched high above the Mediterranean Sea.

The Palais Princier de Monaco (Prince's Palace of Monaco) stands on the "Rock of Monaco," which is the oldest part of the principality. This splendid historic palace is open to the public for visits.

Beyond the "Rock of Monaco," the city-state extends around the coastline. It's worth sightseeing in the more modern Fontvieille district, where the yacht harbor is located. This area has several tourist attractions : Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco (the vintage car collection of Prince Rainier III), a rose garden dedicated to Princess Grace, and the Jardin Exotique that features incredible sea views.

An easy way to see Monaco is on the guided Monaco and Eze Small-Group Day Trip , traveling by minivan with no more than eight passengers. The tour includes a visit to a perfumery in Eze and a spin around the Formula One Grand Prix circuit in Monaco.

An attractive waterfront, elegant palm-fringed boulevards, and graceful Belle Époque architecture give Cannes its special allure. With its many cultural attractions , this seaside resort encapsulates the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera.

Cannes is where the beau monde comes to indulge in the good life. Well-heeled visitors frequent the exclusive private beaches, take sailing expeditions from the yacht club, shop at designer boutiques, dine at upscale restaurant s , and pamper themselves at luxury hotels.

Similar to other resorts on the Cote d'Azur, Cannes has a mild, sunny Mediterranean climate with lush vegetation and subtropical flowers. The town's sheltered location on the Golfe de la Napoule ensures temperate weather even in winter (high season is from May until October).

The most anticipated event of the year in Cannes is the Festival de Cannes in May. This prestigious festival of arthouse cinema that draws movie stars from around the world.

A convenient way to visit Cannes from Nice (a 45-minute drive or train ride away) is by taking a Small-Group Half-Day Tour . This guided tour gives an overview of Cannes' highlights, plus a scenic drive along the French Riviera coastline and a stop in Antibes with time to visit the Old Town and the Billionaire's Quay yacht marina.

Superbly situated on a rocky precipice that overlooks the Provence countryside, Saint-Paul de Vence is a typical Provençal village perché (perched village). By car, the drive from Nice takes about a half hour, yet Saint-Paul de Vence feels a world away.

Saint-Paul de Vence has retained its medieval ambience within the well-preserved circle of 16th-century ramparts. Narrow cobblestone streets wind through the village, leading to delightful fountains, town squares, and art galleries.

Must-see attractions include the 14th-century Eglise Collégiale and the 15th-century Folon Chapel (White Penitents' Chapel) decorated in contemporary style by Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon. The chapel's murals, sculptures, and stained-glass windows were designed by Folon and created with the help of local craftsmen.

The village's beauty attracted Post-Impressionist, Abstract, and Surrealist artists, who discovered Saint-Paul de Vence in the 1920s and created exceptional art works.

Tourists can admire examples of this art at the Fondation Maeght , which displays mosaics by Chagall; sculptures by Mirò; and paintings by Bonnard, Chagall, Kandinsky, Léger, and Miró. The collection of the Fondation Maeght is Europe's largest collection of 20th-century art works .

The hilltop village of Saint-Paul de Vence is often included in guided tours from Nice, such as the Provence Countryside Small-Group Day Trip . This itinerary covers visits to Saint-Paul de Vence, Cannes, Grasse, and Gourdon.

Eze epitomizes a medieval perched village, clinging to the vertiginous edge of a steep, conical rock like an "eagle's nest."

Accessible from Nice (less than 20 kilometers away) by a mountainous coastal road, the village offers a dramatic first impression, with the tower of its church belfry and the ruins of the ancient fortress visible from a great distance.

Once visitors enter the village through the remains of its ancient ramparts, a maze of cobblestone streets provides a wonderful escape from the modern world.

The alleyways are filled with little boutiques, art galleries, and small courtyards, where children play and local artists display pieces for sale. This charming historic town and its laid-back Southern French culture makes Eze a great place for a vacation.

Because the village stands more than 400 meters above the sea, an awe-inspiring backdrop of Mediterranean waters astounds visitors from almost every vantage point in the village. The best outlook is found at the Jardin Exotique (Exotic Gardens) at the highest point in Eze. From this location, there is a sweeping panorama of the coastline from Nice to Monaco, including the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula.

Other top tourist attractions include the 14th-century Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs on the Rue Principale; the Château de la Chèvre d'Or , a five-star Relais & Châteaux property with a two-star Michelin restaurant; and the Parfumerie Fragonard , which is open to the public for guided tours of the perfume factory.

To explore the French Riviera between Monaco and Cannes and see small towns like Eze and the multi-million-dollar yachts at Antibes, try the French Riviera Small-Group Day Trip from Nice . This guided tour offers the chance to see the highlights of the Côte d'Azur in one day.

The Côte d'Azur is synonymous with wealth and sophistication, seen in the stately seaside villas all along the coastline. One of the most remarkable is the residence of the Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, found on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula.

The Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild offers a peek into the lifestyle of Béatrice, the daughter of the wealthy banker Baron Alphonse de Rothschild. After inheriting her father's vast fortune, Béatrice created a sumptuous villa in the style of an Italian palazzo, decorated with impeccable flair.

Béatrice's dining room has been converted into a tea room and restaurant, where visitors may enjoy lunch, snacks, tea, coffee, and refreshments. With its high ceiling and large windows, the lovely sun-filled room features views of the estate's gardens and the sea.

The dining room also has an outdoor terrace with shaded tables beneath umbrellas and fragrant orange trees. Another option is to order a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the nearby French Garden lawn.

Surrounding the villa are expansive grounds that overlook serene deep-blue Mediterranean waters. The immaculately landscaped property includes French, Spanish, Florentine, Japanese, and Provençal gardens, as well as an Exotic Garden and a fragrant Rose Garden. There is even a garden filled with Roman archaeological relics.

The Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild also has a gift shop that sells postcards, jewelry, clothing, and a selection of books about the French Riviera.

Official site: http://www.villa-ephrussi.com/en/home

Just a five-minute drive away from the Ephrussi Villa is Beaulieu-sur-Mer , a lovely French Riviera village with a small sheltered marina.

Located on the Baie des Fourmis and protected from the winds by the hills, Beaulieu-sur-Mer is an idyllic vacation resort year-round because of its mild climate.

Standing at the water's edge with sensational views of the Cap-Ferrat peninsula, the Villa Kérylos is a fascinating attraction. This stately villa was the realization of archaeologist Théodore Reinach's dream, created in collaboration with architect Emmanuel Pontremoli and built between 1902 and 1908.

Modeled after a noblemen's house on the Island of Delos in Greece, the villa was constructed entirely following 2nd-century BCE Greek building methods (including the type of stucco and Carrara marble used in ancient times).

The villa's furnishings, mosaics, and decorations accurately replicate those found in archaeological collections. Visiting the Villa Kérylos allows tourists to step back in time a few millennia to a lavish scene of ancient Greece.

Address: Impasse Gustave Eiffel, Beaulieu-sur-Mer

A few kilometers away from Beaulieu-sur-Mer is the charming village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, with its picturesque harbor.

The waterfront is lined with cheerful Italianate buildings, and the dock is filled with neat rows of little sailboats. Rolling hills planted with olive groves surround the village, and the microclimate is so mild here that tropical fruits such as bananas grow abundantly.

The village has a quaint historic center with a citadel built in 1580 and an impressive church. The Eglise Saint-Michel was built in the town's characteristic Italian Baroque style.

By the harbor is the Palais de la Marine and the Chapelle de Saint-Pierre des Pecheurs . This 16th-century chapel has an interior decorated in 1957 with frescoes by Jean Cocteau, who often visited both Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

A scene from Cocteau's film, Le Testament d'Orphée, was set on the atmospheric street, the Rue Obscure of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

In an enchanting spot on the French Riviera (about 12 kilometers west of Nice), Cagnes-sur-Mer was originally a small fishing village.

The town has several distinct sections, including a beautiful yacht harbor and a historic area up on a hill. The oldest part of the village, called Haut-de-Cagnes because of its hilltop location, has steep pedestrian streets and ancient houses built close together, surrounded by medieval walls.

Presiding over the town center is the imposing 14th-century Château-Musée Grimaldi , which displays a collection of avant-garde and contemporary art. The International Festival of Painting is held here in the summer.

The painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir lived in Cagnes-sur-Mer towards the end of his life. Renoir's home on the Chemin des Collettes is a typical Provençal stone farmhouse, set among olive groves with panoramic views of the Cap d'Antibes peninsula.

The property now houses the Musée Renoir , which displays many of Renoir's artworks. For art lovers, visiting the Musée Renoir is one of the most enjoyable things to do on the French Riviera.

Traveling by car along the Gorges des Alpes-Maritimes route offers a chance to take in the gorgeous scenery of the Mediterranean coast.

One interesting driving itinerary begins where the D2565 branches off near Plan-du-Var into the impressive ravines of the Gorges de la Vésubie . The drive goes through the valley for 10 kilometers before reaching the village of S aint-Jean la Rivière .

From Saint-Jean la Rivière, a narrow, curvy road with hairpin turns continues for about nine kilometers to the hilltop village of Utelle, and then winds another seven kilometers to the Notre-Dame-des Miracles (Madone d'Utelle), a pilgrimage chapel built in 1808 on the site of Marian devotion since the 9th century. From the chapel, visitors can enjoy an exceptional panoramic views that extends over the mountains and valleys to the Mediterranean Sea.

Another suggested scenic drive begins where the Tinée River flows through the Gorges de la Mescla . These gorges are a scenic highlight of this magnificent stretch. The valley is quite wide as far as Bancairon, and then the road dramatically hugs the side of the cliffs. The villages of Clans and Marie , built high up on outcrops, are worth making the detour along the very narrow, winding roads.

Those who want to commune with nature should take a drive to the Grottes des Audides in Saint-Vallier de Thiey. Located 60 meters below ground, this series of caves follows the course of a subterranean stream. Running water has produced chandelier-like stalactites, stalagmites, and even a coral reef.

There is evidence that prehistoric man inhabited the Grottes des Audides. Today, the Grottes des Audides Parc Préhistorique (Prehistoric Park) presents reconstructed scenes from prehistoric life, as well as numerous geological and archaeology exhibits.

One of the French Riviera's top vacation destinations, Antibes brims with tourist attractions and its seaside is the prime draw during summertime. Antibes' beaches are appreciated by sun-worshipping French vacationers because of the pristine natural setting, pillowy white-sand shores, and crystal-clear waters.

Excellent beaches are found on the Cap d'Antibes peninsula and along the Juan-les-Pins coastline. This extensive two-part seaside area includes public and private beaches ranging in size and facilities. Many beaches have showers, toilet facilities, and parasol rentals; some also have snack bars, cafés, or restaurants with outdoor terraces by the sea.

For travelers who are disappointed by Nice's pebbly beaches and consider sandy beaches a summer holiday requirement, Antibes is one of the best places to visit. Plus, the drive from Nice only takes about 40 minutes, and the train ride is less than 30 minutes.

Connoisseurs of beauty and fragrances should include Grasse as an obligatory stop while they are exploring the Provence region.

This alluring town is tucked away in the foothills of the Maritime Alps near the Loup Valley, surrounded by fields of lavender, mimosa, rose, and jasmine flowers that are used to make perfume.

Grasse has several renowned perfume factories, such as Fragonard and Galimard, which are open to the public for tours. For those who enjoy the slow-paced Provençal way of life, the Old Town delights with its romantic cobblestone streets; quiet, shaded courtyards; and outdoor cafés.

On sunny days, the town's spectacular gardens inspire leisurely strolls. Some of the parks feature amazing views of the surrounding countryside. Not to be missed, the three-hectare International Perfume Museum Gardens feature an array of aromatic flowers and plants used in perfumes.

The breathtaking perched village of Peillon is less than 20 kilometers away from Nice.

Arriving here requires a steep drive up a mountainous road and then exploring the village by foot. With its medieval cobblestone lanes, pedestrian staircases, and closely built cluster of historic buildings, Peillon is full of old-world ambience.

Visitors should be sure to see the parish church, the Eglise Saint-Sauveur , which sits at the highest point in the village. Other top attractions include the Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs that's adorned with delicate 15th-century fresco paintings by Jean Canavesio and the Chapelle Saint-Roch in a location that affords magnificent views.

For those spending the night in Peillon, the three-star Auberge de la Madone offers delightful accommodations with private balconies. The hotel's restaurant serves authentic Provençal cuisine in an elegant dining room or on a shaded outdoor terrace with splendid views of the mountainous landscape.

Steps away from the Auberge de la Madone hotel is a family-run restaurant, Les Plaisirs , which has received the Michelin Guide's "Bib Gourmand" award for its excellent-quality meals offered at a good value.

Another delightful hilltop village, Peille is actually walking distance (seven kilometers away) from Peillon via a scenic two-hour hike along the Route Napoléon . The drive from Peillon to Peille takes about 30 minutes.

Although Peille is more remote than Peillon, the tiny village has a couple of noteworthy tourist attractions: the Eglise Sainte-Marie-de-l'Assomption , a 12th-century Romanesque church, and the Musée du Terroir , a museum devoted to sharing information about the village's history and customs.

More on France

How to Spend 5 Days in Nice, France

Are you headed to the French Riviera for a few days and looking for ideas of what to see and do? I did this a few years ago and had a great time soaking up the sun and exploring coastal towns while using Nice as my base. With easy access to nearby towns, plenty of beaches, and an awesome farmer’s market, Nice makes a great place to relax and explore from for a few days. I spent 5 days in Nice, France so here are my suggestions on where to stay, the best things to do in Nice, and some ideas for day trips. 

psst: Looking for a travel credit card with lots of perks (like lounge access) that will also allow you to earn points for travel? This is what I use and recommend. 

How to get to Nice, France

Nice is home to the third most important airport in France, the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is located just outside of the city. There are frequent shuttle busses from both terminals that lead to and from city centre with numerous stops along the Promenade Des Anglais along the way. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket booth just outside the airport entrance, or on the bus itself. Nice also has a train station, as well as a large Port.

Getting Around Nice, France

For the most part, the city is pretty walkable. Especially if you plan on spending 5 days in Nice, that’s plenty of time to wander and look around.

The city does also have a tram system, as well as bus routes throughout the city. Tickets can be purchased on board. For those looking for a more touristy way to see the sites, there is a little tourist train that starts along the Promenade Des Anglais.

If you plan on doing day trips, you can use the bus system, the trains, or you can rent a car.

Where To Stay in Nice, France 

There are a few areas that I would recommend staying in Nice. For me, being a water-lover, I wanted to be as close as possible to a beach. There are plenty of beaches along the Promenade Des Anglais so it’s not difficult to find a spot within easy walking distance from the sea. Other popular areas are Place Masséna, Old Town, and the Port.

Looking for some suggestions? Take a look at the following accommodation options:

Hostels:   Hotel Ozz by HappyCulture 

Midrange hotels: The Deck Hotel  or Hotel le Royal Promenade des Anglais 

Luxury hotels: Hotel Negresco or Hotel Aston La Scala 

The Best Things to do in Nice

Wondering what to see and do? Here are my top suggestions on how to make the most of your 5 days in Nice. 

Explore Old Town

Made up of narrow cobblestone alleys and winding streets, Old Town Nice is a great place to wander. Full of shops, cafes, and restaurants, it’s also one of the most popular places to grab a bite to eat. The Old Town is also home to the famous flower market, as well as important landmark buildings including the Palais Lascaris, and Cathédrale de Sainte Réparate. And if it’s hot and you need something to cool down, Old Town is also the home to the city’s best gelato shop: Fennocchio which boasts to have over 100 flavours ranging from classic chocolate to the questionable flavour of cactus. Prepare to wait in line though, this place is popular!

Castle Hill

A little misleading in its name due to the fact that there was never actually  a castle here, Castle Hill offers the best views of Nice. Located between Old Town and the Nice Port, this hill is a hot-spot for tourists and locals alike. Its steep trails are popular with runners and the park up top is a popular place for locals and their families to spend an afternoon relaxing and playing. The man-made waterfall is also a popular attraction. Castle hill makes for a great place to have a picnic and relax with a book and get stunning photos of Nice and the Mediterranean Sea from above. There are numerous paths leading to the top of Castle Hill as well as an elevator. 

Place Masséna

Promenade Des Anglais

Promenade Des Anglais is a giant sea-side road that leads from the airport all the way to the Nice Port. On the land side it is lined with hotels and restaurants while numerous beaches line the sea-side. There is a wide area for pedestrians and cyclists as it is the perfect place to enjoy an evening walk. It’s also common to find locals playing sports along its path: when I visited there was some sort of soccer tournament going on.

The Beaches

Promenade Des Anglais is lined with numerous beaches stretching out down the coast line. It is important to note however, that these are stone beaches and not sand beaches, so if you plan on spending a day here it’s best to bring a beach matt or something thicker to sit/lie on. Showers and toilets are available for a fee, and some beaches do have restaurants/bars.

The Russian Cathedral

Probably the furthest attraction of the city, the Russian Church is about a 25 minute walk from Place Masséna. It’s a stunning building in the centre of Nice, and the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe. The Cathedral is open to viewers during certain times, so make sure to check the schedule first, or you will likely end up like me trying to take photos through the closed gate.

Place Garibaldi

Another important square, Place Garibaldi is located between Old Town and New Town and is a short walk from the Nice Port. Like Place Masséna, Place Garibaldi is also home to some stunning architecture, though rather than numerous shops it is lined with a variety of restaurants. This is also the area where you catch the bus to Èze and Monaco.

The Flower Market

Probably my favourite place to visit in Nice, the Flower Market is the perfect place to grab some homemade food, shop for souvenirs, or just wander and look at what the vendors have to offer. Though there are quite a few vendors selling flowers, the Flower Market is home to all kinds of items. Some stalls offer fresh cuts of meat and sea food while others deal in fruits and vegetables. A few have mouth-watering displays of fresh made bread, croissants, and other baked goods and a couple offer a variety of fresh cheeses.

This is the best place to come and buy your food for the day, whether you needed something pre-made or something to cook later for dinner, you can find almost everything here. During my my 5 days in Nice I only went out to dinner once. Instead, I preferred to pick up baguettes, cheeses, berries, and other treats from this market for my daily meals.

The market is open every day except for Mondays, (which is antique day) from morning til early afternoon. Go as early as possible though because things disappear quickly.

What to Buy in Nice

The main shopping street in Nice is avenue Jean Medecin, upon which you can find all kinds of boutiques, European chain stores, and the Nice Etoile mall. As mentioned above, another popular spot is the Galleries Lafyette, which offeres a variety of products of European design. Aside from the European fashions, Nice also offers some more budget friendly and unique products that make great souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. Some of my favourite finds were olive oil soaps that came in numerous different scents, bags of herbs de Provence for cooking, chocolates, and lavender. The flower market is great for these types of items- just be sure to shop around the different vendors before buying!

Day Trips from Nice

Nice is a gateway to all kinds of easy and close day trips throughout the area. Some are very easy to do on your own (I have posts for how to spend 1 day in Monaco and a guide to Eze ) but other spots such as St. Tropez or Provence are a bit trickier and require a lot of time on public transit. For this reason, I suggest doing a bit of research as you may be better off taking a guided tour for some day trip destinations .

Some tours that may be of interest include:

• Gorges of Verdon and Lavender Tour
• Saint Tropez Day Trip
• Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Paul de Vence  
• Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Eze 

Nice really surprised me. I liked it more than I expected, especially because it’s so central and easy to explore the area from. I definitely recommend spending 3-5 days in Nice if you are looking to kick back, relax, and enjoy the French Riviera.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

39 Comments

I’ve always wanted to visit, but the nearest I came was driving through when on my way to Italy for work once (more glamorous than it sounds!). Great tips for when I finally make it though…

I hope you do one day! It’s a great place to relax for a few days 🙂

It’s interesting that there’s a Russian Church nearby, Nice looks somewhat similar to Odessa or Sochi, at least in its maritime classical architecture.

I’ve been to Cannes twice but never to Nice. After seeing your photo of Old Town Nice, I need to rectify this situation!

Yes you do! I didn’t make it to Cannes during my stay (rained and stormed on my last full day which is of course when I planned to go) but would love to check it out one day as well

The first thing I noticed on your website was your cover photo – that is the Kylemore Abbey if I’m not mistaken isn’t it? One of the prettiest places I’ve seen in my life (and that is saying quite something if you’ve just returned from Ireland isn’t it?) Yet to visit Nice – I’m pretty sure this post will be very useful when I finally get the chance 🙂

Haha yes Kylemore Abbey it is! One of the first places I visited while travelling and still one my personal favs as well. Thanks for stopping by Sanket 🙂

I’m not sure how I haven’t made it to Nice yet, I’ve been quite close several times!! You mentioned the “low key vibes”, I always imagined it as a very touristy town, but is it relatively quiet? This definitely made me want to get there one day… 🙂

When I was there (April) it wasn’t very touristy at all…although I had also just come from Venice so I’m sure a lot of places seem more low key after a few days there 😉 I found it pretty quiet and relaxing for sure

Nice post on Nice… boom tish! Seriously, I am planning to go there early 2015 so this was a good read for me to get in-the-know.

Haha good one 😛

What a great and thorough overview. Thanks for the tips to navigate this destination. It sounds like my kind of place to kick back and chill. Cheers!

Thanks for your kind words John 🙂

This is going on mybookmark!! Great tips, very detailed. I am going end of week so I will be using these 🙂

Hope they help! Have an awesome time 🙂

So pretty! I’ve been itching to get to the south of France and Riviera and I might just have to add Nice to the list of places to see there. Thanks for the tips!

I think you should absolutely add it to the list! 🙂

Views from Castle Hill are gorgeous! Brings back lovely memories, all though I didnt spend much time there 🙁 Next time I will for sure and keep these tips in mind!

Glad to re-inspire you 😉

Brings back good memories of the week I spent in Nice about 10 years ago – it’s such a good location to explore the South of France and there’s so much to see around there.

Right? One of my favourite things about Nice is there’s so much nearby to explore!

I’d definitely love to get gelato in the old town! How weird that it’s called Castle Hill even though there’s no castle – is it because it’s like a castle in some way?

Love the random Russian church too. It’s not what I would have expected in Nice, but it’s very cool.

Totally misleading isn’t it. There’s a waterfall, and some super old ruins but no castle 🙁 views are stunning though so that makes up for it a bit!

That Russian church reminds me of St Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow! Love the photo of the port from Castle Hill – I love this style of roof in towns on the med coast with the beautifully coloured orange tiles. Great article Hannah, extremely informative!

Thanks Paul 🙂 Can’t compare it to the Moscow Cathedral myself as I have never been but hope to go soon!

Oh that Russian church is so cool looking!

It was gorgeous! I’m bummed I didn’t get to go in (visited during closed hours) but still worth the walk

Love love love Nice! It’s such a cool place with beautiful beaches and stunning architecture. I didn’t know about the Russian Cathedral, which I’m disappointed about but I suppose that’s just a good excuse to go back. I’d love to be lazing on one of the sun lounges by the water right now, no matter the cost!

I think that’s a perfect excuse to go back- and then after you see it laze by the water 😉

Great guide if I ever make it to Nice. Lots of information in there and nice pictures as well.

Old Town looks fantastic!! Well, all of it looks quite amazing, actually. 🙂 I almost went to Nice once on a backpacking trip, but it was getting so much rain that we opted to go elsewhere. I’m sure I’ll visit someday, though. Thanks for the tips!

Hope you get the chance to go back on a sunny day!

I love your break down of trips at the bottom there. I have to add this to my list of short getaways for next year. Cool post!

Thanks Bianca! Hope they come in handy 🙂

I just got back from Menton – it’s a great day trip from Nice. I loved the area, the Med Sea is just amazing.

I’ll have to add it to the list for next time!

[…] de Pignes, from Nice to Digne. For more day trips from Nice and things to do in Nice, check out the best of Nice from Hannah at Eat Sleep Breath […]

[…] to see it. So, when I spent some time in the south of France I decided to do a day trip from Nice and spend 1 day in Monaco. It was a busy day, but it was a lot of fun and I definitely recommend […]

[…] to visit. There’s no shortage of charming coastal towns here and after spending a week based in Nice, I enjoyed exploring a few of them. However, without a doubt, my favourite was the cliff-side […]

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An Essential Guide to Nice, Europe’s Original Resort Town 

By Kelsy Chauvin

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Nice’s standing as the ultimate getaway became official last summer, when it earned UNESCO World Heritage status as the “ winter resort town of the Riviera .” Citing the “exceptional universal value of the architectural, landscape, and urban heritage of Nice,” the designation memorializes the city’s international flair and air of opulence.

For seasoned travelers, the city’s alluring serenity and scenery has been an open secret since the 18th century. Back then, English aristocrats were drawn to the mild winter weather along this French-Mediterranean stretch, building lavish mansions with exotic gardens to suit their annual sojourns. By 1860, those early snowbirds even constructed the seaside walkway known as La Promenade des Anglais—the English Promenade—now an iconic global attraction.

But the real secret of Nice is its accessibility to modern travelers. From Vieux Nice (the old town) up to Cimiez Hill (Queen Victoria’s old neighborhood), visitors can make their way in luxury or on budget, and enjoy the same mesmerizing beauty of the French Riviera .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chateau le Cagnard

What to do in Nice—and where to stay

Enthusiasm for Nice begins with a panoramic descent into Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, which juts out into the crystal-blue Ligurian Sea. From there, a 15-minute taxi or swift tram ride puts you directly into central Nice. On and just off the commercial strip that is Avenue Jean Medecin, you’ll find a range of lodging options, including Hotel Boscolo Nice , which welcomes guests into its artful lobby illuminated by a giant skylight. Rooms are spacious and chic, as are its subterranean spa and two Italian-inspired restaurants. Reserve time for the hotel’s breezy rooftop lounge, where you can dip into the plunge pool by day, and sip cocktails during mellow DJ’ed evenings.

Hotel Boscolo is along Boulevard Victor Hugo, from which much of Nice’s main attractions are a pleasant walk or Vélo Bleu bikeshare ride away. Head down Avenue Medecin toward the Fontaine du Soleil and the giant statue of Apollo, then into Vieux Nice to soak up the city’s history. The 1885 neoclassical Nice Opera House marks the west end of the famous Cours Saleya daily market , with fresh flowers and seasonal produce. Visit the Theresa Socca stand to try the simply divine local snack that is socca, a savory crepe made from chickpea flour.

With so many historic sights in the old town, it’s an interesting turn to visit the decidedly modern Charles Nègre Photography Museum , located beside the market in Place Pierre Gautier. Expect to find a range of temporary photo exhibits housed in neighboring buildings. Better still, €15 buys admission here and at 10 more museums across town, including the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Matisse Museum, and Archaeology Museum of Nice/Cimiez, located on an ancient Roman archaeological site. The museum pass doesn’t include Nice’s splendid Marc Chagall Museum, though it’s well worth a visit.

Pass through the arches to walk along the Quai des États-Unis—the United States Wharf, so named to honor America’s World War I alliance with France. This café-lined boulevard parallels the famous Promenade, where you can hit the beach, or gaze upon it from waterside-terrace restaurants like Plage Beau Rivage . Stroll eastward towards the giant #ILoveNICE selfie spot, and on to the compact Port Lympia to check out the colorful wooden fishing boats docked beside million-dollar mega yachts.

Sardines on the beach 

Tanning under the stripped umbrellas

Local Nissarde cuisine

Fans of the Niçoise salad will enjoy diving deeper into unique local Cuisine Nissarde , a notably different style of gastronomy that reflects the region’s Ligurian (Northern Italian) influence. Based on seasonal ingredients that bring fresh salads and fruits in summer, and root vegetables and stews in winter, Nissarde cooking often involves eggs, olives, mushrooms, and deep-sea fish like tuna and sardines.

The Nice Cote d’Azur tourism board lists about two dozen restaurants as traditional “Cuisine Nissarde” establishments, eight of them in or near Vieux Nice. Family-run Chez Acchiardo is one of the oldest, open since 1927 in its stone-walled corner location on Rue Droite. Here’s you’ll be able to sample some of the city’s best traditional dishes, such as daube , beef stew made with red wine and Mediterranean herbs; and trouchia , a tasty frittata layered with baby Swiss chard.

On every Nissarde menu you’ll find merda de can, green gnocchi topped with pistou—pesto made without pine nuts, the Ligurian way. Lou Balico serves one of the best versions, in shareable portions, along with a superb Niçoise salad, made traditionally with anchovies, pickled vegetables, and artichokes, served over greens with fresh tuna, tomato, olives, and boiled egg. On any Nissarde menu you’ll also find pissaladière , a filling, focaccia-like flatbread topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives.

Parfumerie Galimard

Along the Cote d’Azur

The 120-mile-long French Riviera stretches from shore to Alps, so it’s well worth a regional tour to explore small towns like Vence, a historic Roman-turned-medieval village about 45 minutes’ drive northwest from Nice. In the town square, dine al fresco at CheZ’elles, serving delicious Armenian food that’s pleasantly mistaken for classic Greek cuisine. Don’t miss a visit to Vence’s Rosary Chapel, commonly called the Matisse Chapel since Henri Matisse personally designed and decorated the bright, modest space during his later years. 

By Jessica Puckett

By Devra Ferst

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Olivia Morelli

Take a quick jaunt from Vence to Cagnes-sur-Mer to lodge at Chateau le Cagnard , once a hilltop castle that’s now a luxury hotel with 29 unique guestrooms, many with picture-perfect balconies. Nearby, the serenity of the Renoir House and Museum reveals why many artists were drawn to this lovely, temperate corner of France.

Drive or take a train eastward from Nice to Eze to visit the spectacular Exotic Garden of Eze , a botanical garden perched high on a hill within a medieval fortress, planted with foliage from around the world. Stroll through the fortress’ winding pathways to find unique shops and cafés, and stop into ultra-grand Hotel Chateau de La Chèvre d’Or for an Aperol spritz overlooking the sea. For a delightfully different souvenir, join a fragrance-making class at Eze’s Galimard Maison de Parfums , where you can customize your own scent to bring home, while the studio keeps your recipe on file for future orders.

You can dine or lodge overnight at panoramic (and decidedly modern) Les Terasses d’Eze , or head back to Nice, perhaps via the maritime town of Villefranche-sur-Mer. This former fishing village is prime territory for fresh-caught, French-inspired seafood dishes at open-air spots like Le Cosmo .

That restaurant is located on a plaza that faces the 16th-century Chapel St. Pierre, a modest structure with an eye-catching Romanesque façade. Its interior is even more fascinating, every inch decorated with the original mid-century work of Jean Cocteau, who lived occasionally in the Welcome Hotel in Villefranche. There, Cocteau found both solace and inspiration in the everyday milieu of the Cote d’Azur. It seems the atmospheric nature of the French Riviera was as beguiling to him as it was for centuries of vacationers before him, and for today’s travelers eager to find their own time in the Nice sun.

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France Travel Blog

Nice Travel Guide

Nice offers a perfect blend of a thrilling seaside resort and the richness of a cosmopolitan European city. And if you are looking to experience the distinct blissfulness of the French Riviera, a vacation to its biggest city, Nice is primed for it all.

Boasting of a mild Mediterranean climate, a colorful culture, a vivacious Old Town district, and a flawless shoreline strip of terrific hotels. This Southeastern French city has been a popular travel destination since the 18th century. And though soft, Nice’s intense light, captivating architectural structures, and fanciful market centers have long been appealing to artists from all over the world. Artists like Matisse and Chagall have witnessed Nice’s artistic glory. As an art and history buff, the city will spoil you for choices as no other French city have more museums.

Nice is a big air transportation hub in Europe. Many low-cost airlines offer flights to the Côte d’Azur (the French part of Riviera) airport from London, Paris, and other places. Fast rail service also operates from Paris to Nice. The city’s public transportation is a tram system, transit service, and ferry service. From budget hotels to deluxe-class seaside resorts, there is a vast range of hotel accommodation available in and around Nice. 

Despite its strong historical profile that dates back to the 4th century BC, modernism is apparently not lost on it at all. There have been efforts to modernize the city’s infrastructure.

Here is a Detailed Travel Guide in this Blog for your Stay in Nice:

Best time to visit nice.

Nice, like most cities in the Mediterranean, experiences warm weather almost year-round with average temperature reaching 80s°F (around 26°C )  in the summer and as low as 40s°F (around 5°C )  in the winter. As such, spring is an excellent time to visit Nice and the Côte d’Azur. The best time to visit will be in late spring and early summer to enjoy Nice. 

Getting Around

You will find many shuttle buses and local bus services to Nice and other Riviera cities, and expensive cabs, to convey you to into the city when you arrive. Traveling by rail, be informed that Nice has three stations, but you will probably arrive in the main terminal at Nice Ville. It is expected that you will be only a few blocks north of the coastline.

In addition, are there many connections from Nice Railway station to other cities in France and to neighboring Italy too. The city’s bus system is called the  Lignes d’Azur , which works, in the city and also to and from the airport and other close towns. The system controls about 130 bus routes in the 49 municipalities that consist of the entire Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur area. 

You can buy a single ticket for a journey, which allows changes within 74 minutes for 1.50 euros. There are many other great value tickets for various lengths of stay. Nothing beats seeing the beautiful landscape of Nice while strolling the city on foot or in a car. As such, you can rent a car to cruise. However, it is good to check with your hotel if they have parking plans for guests and the costs too. 

Parking in Nice can be a challenging task. In the case that you are in Nice from another part of the country by far, consider leaving the car at one of the 5’Parc relais’ or stopover car parks outside the center. It is free to use. 

>> How To Get From Paris To Nice

Tourist Attractions

Cours saleya flower market ( marché aux fleurs cours saleya ).

Take a trip to the Cours Selaya for some fantastic culinary experience. This center is one of the major areas for dining, with restaurants, cafes, and bars all spread throughout the market. The open-air market center that used to be a park for the city’s richest people is shaded by trees and surrounded by 18th-century buildings. Many of these structures now house pubs and restaurants serving Niçois cuisine. At the end of Cours Selaya on Mondays, you will see antiques and collectibles been sold. For seafood lovers, here would particularly be an exciting spot to take on for the brilliant cuisines they would find. 

Place Massena

This is the cultural hub of Nice, and it is the city’s largest square and the primary gathering place for events and seasonal festivals. 17th-century architecture is ubiquitous in Place Massena, and it connects with Lyon’s commercial district. Also, you will find an art installation whose pieces are made up of sculptures on top of tall pillars scattered around the plaza. There is also a grand fountain that bears an Apollo statue- the square’s centerpiece. 

Promenade des Anglais

This is a seaside boardwalk that spans along the Baie des Anges was established by the British tourists who first popularized Nice as a vacation destination in the early 18th century. Lined with beach cabanas, cafes, and premium hotels, and palm trees, this area is one of the most well-known seaside promenades you will find on the Mediterranean. Though pricey, the seaside private restaurants/beach is a wonder you must not miss. You can also rent a chaise lounge a few feet from the shore, and let waiters serve you lunch and drinks. Your Riviera experience would not be whole until you completely take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais.

>> Hotels Near Promenade des Anglais in Nice >> Is Nice Worth Visiting?

Vieux Nice (Nice’s Old Town)

Also known as Old Nice, Vieux Nice is next to the Cours Selaya Flower market. It has narrow streets to can walk while you discover gratifying shopping, dining, and some of Nice’s hippest bars. It spans from the foot of Castle Hill to the Place Massena, which is the city’s main square. Vieux Nice is very much marked with wide promenades, while the medieval quarter reminds of the time when the city was allied with Italian states. It is still one of the best places to taste Nice’s Niçois-style pizzas and pastries. As attractive as this destination is, be careful not to go alone, especially late in the day. Vieux Nice has dark alleys that can be covered for thieves and questionable characters.

Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain

Established in 1990, the museum of modern and contemporary art was built by architects Yves Bayard and Henri Vidal. It has four towers faced in Carrara marble from quarries in Carrara, an Italian town. The museum’s vast collection consists of a sample of the 60s and 70s fine arts that include minimalists, American abstracts, pop art, and new realism. More imposing works on display are by Nice native, Yves Klein, of the Nouveaux Réalistes movement. The museum shows his work in a room and on the roof terrace; a point that gives captivating views of the beautiful city. 

Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas

Built during the reign of Russia’s Tsar Nicholas, the Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe Saint-Nicolas is said to be one of the most stunning Orthodox churches outside of Russia. The style is inspired by the Moscow’s own and has an incredibly decorated interior that comes in murals, carved woodwork, and ornamental icons. It is a virtual jewel box that has historical and religious objects. These were brought to France from Russia during a previous period of crisis. 

Tourists are allowed to see the structure and worship but are expected to abide by some rules. For example, men are not permitted in bare-chested or in shorts. And for women, miniskirts and shorts are not allowed, and shoulders are expected to be covered. A head covering is also preferred. So be prepared before you set out to visit the cathedral.

Parc de la Colline du Château (Castle Hill Park)

High above the Nice coastline, where the Castle Hill Park rests today was the first place to be inhabited by the Greeks about two thousand years ago. It used to be seen as unconquerable until King Louis XIV destroyed it in 1706. The city designed into a modern park today, and a charmingly simple site. It is a place you should visit for its shady trees, a pleasant oasis of greenery, and rushing waterfalls. 

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the magnificent park views at the Castle Hill. And while having a great time at the park, you can always visit some great restaurants around where you can grab some bite. Other places worth checking out are boutiques and the ruins of two old churches. The Castle Hill Park is lit up with special lighting effects every night. Tourists and other visitors can arrive at the park by foot from the Old Town of Nice or take an Art-Deco lift or escalator from Place Garibaldi. 

>> Is Nice Safe?

How to Maximize your Stay in Nice

While it is about preference, an organized tour is a way to make the most of your stay in the city as you immerse yourself in its culture; without worrying about finding your way around. Indulging in tour agencies has many other benefits too. You get to save time because some of these tourist outfits include convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel. Here are some tips for enjoying Nice at affordable prices:

Navigate the popular sites

As earlier mentioned, tours are great ways to see scintillating places in Nice. Tours would stop at top cultural attractions like Promenade des Anglais, the Musee d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the Place Garibaldi. Tours also allow experiencing areas of the city that are usually difficult for tourists to add to their itinerary. 

Cycle around the city

You will hardly miss the great scenery on Nice’s streets when you go biking to take on the town. A three-hour trip around would be great as you see locals go hustling and bustling and of course, see the magnificence of the city. Even if you go solo, other tourist cyclists you will meet on the road will also be having an exciting time. 

Medieval hilltop towns and the glitzes of Cannes and Monaco are only a short trip from Nice, and a day trip tour is a perfect way to see them all. In the mountainous town of Eze, you can check out the excellent local perfumery and relish the breathtaking view of French Riviera. In enticing Monte Carlo, you can navigate the old town and see the palace as well as other top sites.

>> Day Trips From Nice >>

Where To Stay In Nice

Hotels are plenty in Nice for the comfort and luxury of visitors and locals alike. Nothing beats the feeling of having a proper rest after a long day of adventure. Indeed, a good Nice hotel will have comfort, tranquility, and the gratifyingly luscious cuisine to go with the calm. 

Hotel Windsor is a short walk to the beach. Walled with distinct murals, its rooms are gorgeously decorated by brilliant artists. Try to request a room with a balcony. The hotel Negresco is another excellent hotel, and it is probably the city’s most famous one. Magisterial around the Promenade des Anglais and the curving beach of La Baie des Anges, the ambiance of this impressive hotel is what every tourist should experience. And the great thing is, you won’t have to spend a fortune to book a room there. 

Its well-known cocktail bar allures the young people with DJ sets, live jazz and Latino bands performance at night. Even the bar staff make lovely cocktails, like the royal Negresco, with champagne, kirsch and raspberry juice. With a swelling number of hotels in Nice, you have lots to choose from.

>> Best Hostels in Nice , Hotels Near Promenade des Anglais in Nice

Is there anything you would add to this Nice Travel Guide? Leave your comments below.

>>Read: Things To Do In Nice

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Nice travel guide | best things to do in nice, france.

What to see, do, eat and where to stay while visiting Nice, France on a budget.

It’s easy to see why people flock to Nice. First, the weather is amazing (hello 300 days of sunshine) and we love how the city is a great blend of France and Italy (i.e. lots of great food). Its large beach and cute old town are perfect for people-watching. Nice also has a lot of solid shopping and museums to check out. Additionally, Nice is the perfect home-base for exploring the smaller cities and towns of the French Riveria or if you’re just stopping by as part of a larger tour of France.

In this Nice Travel Guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Nice and help you find what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get around while traveling on a budget.

How Much To Budget For Nice

The words “budget” and “French Riveria” usually don’t go together but Nice can still be a budget destination with a bit of planning.

We recommend budgeting around €35-€60/day if you’re on a backpacker’s budget. You can easily spend more, and you might be able to spend less, but this is a good range for planning purposes. Our Nice, France Travel Price Guide has a more in-depth breakdown of travel costs if you want to learn more.

How Long To Visit Nice

The highlights of Nice can be seen in about two days but you can easily add a few more days to explore the multiple day-trips from Nice that dot the coast of the French Riveria — like Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cap Ferrat, and Eze. There are also a number of inland cities that can be easily reached via Nice. A lot of travelers include Nice as part of a bigger trip through Southern France/Provence.

We spent six nights in Nice but traveled at a fairly leisurely pace and explored a few of the surrounding towns. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can explore Nice itself in about two days and then add an extra day or two for the surrounding areas.

The Good and Not-So-Good of Nice

We always like to cover the good and the bad of every city to help give you a quick idea of what you’ll experience when visiting Nice.

• Weather: Nice gets 300+ days of sunshine.
• Food: Nice is near Italy so there is a lot of good Italian food as well as good French food. And, of course, there are some tasty local specialties.
• Nature and Views: One of the main draws to Nice (and the rest of the French Riveria) are the beautiful natural views. There’s a reason so many artists lived and worked in Nice and the French Riviera throughout the years (Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Paul Cezanne, Henri Matisse, etc.)
• Beaches: Nice has a long stretch of beach that draws both tourists and locals.
• Hiking: The French Riviera offers plenty of leisurely hiking opportunities — most of which don’t require anything other than a sturdy pair of shoes.
• Gateway To The Riviera: Nice makes an excellent home base to explore the rest of the French Riviera — most of which are easily connected by buses or trains.

The Not-So-Good

• Summer Crowds: Like most towns in Europe, Nice does get a bit busy during the summer so you might have to fight the crowds. Make sure to make dinner reservations.
• Rocky Beach: The beach is great but you’ll want shoes/sandals if you plan on walking along the beach. Additionally, the water gets deep quickly so you can’t venture too far from the beach. That said, there are plenty of sandy beaches in the nearby towns.
• Summer Heat: Nice can get pretty toasty in the middle of summer — which is great for the beach but it not ideal for doing hikes and long walks.
• Lack Of A/C: The summers can be hot but not all hotels and rental apartments have air conditioning. Furthermore, the Old Town can be a little noisy at night so keeping your windows open can make it hard to sleep.
• Tourist Prices: Nice’s main industry is tourism so you have to seek out the good deals if you’re traveling on a budget (but that’s what this guide is for).

Get Orientated

Here is some practical information to help you plan your trip to Nice.

Getting Into Nice

The Nice-Ville Train Station is located in the northern part of the city. The Nice Tram is about a five-minute walk from the train station — which will take you to the old town and fairly close to the beach. It’s about a 20-minute walk to get to the old town. There will also be taxis or you can call an Uber.

The Nice Airport ( Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur ) is only a few miles from Nice.

• A taxi ride should be a fixed rate of €32 (including luggage) if you’re going into the city center (be careful of drivers who don’t charge the fixed fare).
• The #98 and #99 express airport buses  connect the airport to the city center for €6/ticket ( Aéro Ticket ). There are a number of city buses that connect the city with the airport for €1.50/ticket but it’s slower and not super convenient with luggage.
• Uber is also popular in Nice. Expect to spend around €20-€25.
• There is currently a tram being constructed from the airport to the city center but delays have pushed back the opening date to sometime in 2019.

Getting Around Nice

The bus and the tram are the main ways to get around Nice via public transportation. Single tickets are €1.50 per ride and you can buy them directly from the diver or automated machines. You can also buy a €5 unlimited day ticket from the machines.

Of course, Nice is a fairly compact city so we pretty much walked everywhere without much trouble. For example, from the Old Town to the beach is about a five-minute walk and the Old Town to the train station was a 20-minute walk.

Taxis and Uber  are also plentiful — although taxis are very expensive. For example, our 10-minute Uber ride from the Old Town to the Chagall Museum was around €10 but a taxi would have been about double.

You won’t want to use a car to get around Nice.

Nice also has a cheap  bike sharing program called  Velo Bleu — simply take a bike from one of the many stations throughout the city. That said, lots of visitors find it difficult to use (especially if you don’t speak French) because of the service’s quirks, finicky stations, and broken bikes.

Where To Stay in Nice (Neighborhoods)

Nice is roughly divided into four main areas — the Old Town (Vieux Nice), City Center, the Beach Front (which spans the Old Town and the City Center), and the Port. Ok, there are a few more neighborhoods but we’ve only listed the ones most popular with visitors. You’ll find a variety of accommodation options in each neighborhood at all price ranges.

Old Town ( Vieux Nice )

Nice’s 16th century Old Town (Vieux Nice) is the cute, largely pedestrian-only part of town that’s packed full of restaurants, bars, cafes, markets, etc. The area is safe and lively so expect a bit of noise as people enjoy these narrow winding streets. You’ll find a handful of small hotels and a plenty of rental apartments in this area. [ See On Google Maps ]

City Center/New Town

The area roughly east of the Old Town is considered the City Center. Here you’ll find plenty of modern shopping, wider streets and sidewalks, “newer” buildings (well, when compared to the 16th century Old Town), and plenty of restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. There are a lot of budget-friendly options in the neighborhood but the area around the train station does feel a bit seedier but prices there are more affordable. [ See On Google Maps ]

Beach Front

Naturally, the areas close to the beach (i.e. along the  Promenade des Anglais ) tend to mostly be luxury hotels. Most budget travelers probably won’t be staying here but there are still a handful of fairly affordable rental apartments in the area. Luckily Nice is fairly compact so you’re never very far away from the beach. [ See On Google Maps ]

To the west of Old Town is Nice’s port neighborhood. The port is lively and has plenty of hip bars, restaurants, and nightlife. This area doesn’t attract a ton of tourists so it’s a nice spot if you want to get a more local feel of Nice — plus the accommodation and food is cheaper. That said, getting to the beach is a little more difficult since there is a large hill separating the port and the rest of Nice. [ See On Google Maps ]

Best Hostels In Nice

Nice only has about 15 hostels but many of them are well-rated and affordable. Nice does get busy in the summer so you might want to book in advance to get the best price. We recommend checking out Hostelworld to see the most current review and rates.

• Hostel Meyerbeer Beach
• Villa Saint Exupery Beach
• Antares Hostel
• Hostel Baccarat
• Hostel OZZ By Happyculture

Looking for a budget hotel? We suggest checking out  Booking.com  to see hotel prices for your dates since they’re always changing.

Best Things To Do In Nice

Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do in Nice, France.

Promenade des Anglais

The star of the show in Nice is its long Promenade that winds along its white pebble beach. Enjoy a stroll along this four-mile promenade and get your fill of people watching. The eastern side of the promenade offers some great city views and views of the harbor. Head back at night and listen to the street musicians as you stroll along.

Or rent a bike for a few hours! The promenade has dedicated bike lanes and it’s a pretty easy ride. We got our bikes (€4/hr or €10/day) from a place on promenade called Roller Station . It took us about an hour to bike from end to end and back.

You can’t visit Nice without spending some time on its white pebble beaches . Word of caution, the pebbles are painful to walk on so bring sandals or beach shoes. Also, bring a beach towel because are a little painful to sit on and the salty film will rub off on your pants. Also, the water becomes deep very quickly so it’s not ideal for swimming.

All the beaches are open to the public but there are a few private sections with lounge chairs and umbrellas that can be rented for about €20/day (€15 for a half day) — you can also just rent a towel for around €5. These are usually run by hotels but anyone can rent a spot — but you might want to snag one early in the summer. Waiters will also walk around to serve you food/drink.

TIP: Visit the nearby Farmers Market to pick up some goodies for a cheap beach picnic.

Explore Old Town ( Vieux Nice )

Nice’s Old Town dates back to the 16th Century so it’s fun to spend the day wandering its narrow streets. We wouldn’t say there are many “must see” sighs within the Old Town so just explore, get lost, and enjoy the ambiance. Stop at one of the many sidewalk cafes for a drink or stroll around with some gelato. [ See On Google Maps ]

Castle Hill

Castle Hill is perched along the eastern edge of the Old Town and towers above Nice so it’s a great place for some amazing views and photo-ops of the city and the port. At the top, you’ll also find a nice park, a waterfall, and the castle cemetery. There is a free elevator to the top or you can walk up its steps [ See On Google Maps ].

Tip: Visit during the sunset.

Farmer’s and Flower Market

There is a Farmers and Farmer’s market (Cours Saleya Market) every day in Nice’s Old Town — except Monday when its a flea market. It’s full of meat, cheese, fresh produce, and sweets. You can also buy prepared food. Be sure to try the local traditional snack called  Socca (basically a large chickpea pancake) that are served fresh all day — the best Socca stall at the market is Theresa Socca (you can’t miss her). [ See On Google Maps ]

Ave Jean Medecin

Avenue Jean Medecin is a long boulevard that stretches from the old town to the train station. The avenue is lined with tons of shopping (mostly big name brands) and some restaurants. Note: There is an excellent gelato place on the avenue called  Cesar Milano — it’s 100% worth the walk.

Promenade de Paillon

The Promenade de Paillon is a long walkway/greenway that essentially separates the Old Town and New Town. It’s a nice stroll and you find lots of children enjoying the water fountain park during warm weather.

Nice has a few great museums but the best is the Chagall Museum that features the largest public collection of Chagall works. It’s a fairly small museum and we found the audio guide to be very helpful and informative — highly recommended. Tickets are €8 for adults and the audioguide is €2.

The other two popular museums in Nice are the Matisse Museum (the largest collection of Henri Matisse) and the  Museum of Modern Art and Contemporary Art (which also has great city views from the roof).

Nice also has a number of smaller museums. Check out the  French Riviera Pass as it covers multiple museums and other sighs/attractions in Nice and the surrounding towns. It’s available 1, 2 or 3 days for €26/€38/€56. There is also a Nice Museum Pass that gives 7-day access to municipal museums for €20. Check out the Nice Tourism Office for more information on all of Nice’s museums.

Fort Mount Alban

This 16th-century fort is perched in the hills above Nice, Villefranche, & Cap Ferrat. Make your way to the top for gorgeous panoramic views of the towns and the coast. It’s a fairly leisurely hour-long walk from Nice (there are some steep steps/slopes but it’s mostly paved) or you can take the #14 bus. Not many people make the journey so it’s a good way to escape the tourist crowds.

Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Nice has an impressive Russian Orthodox Cathedral that was completed in 1912. It’s a bit outside the city center but it’s worth a visit if you have the time.

Coastal Walk To Villefranche

Hiking lovers can make the two-hour trek from Nice to Villefranche — which is almost most entirely along the coast. It’s a nice walk if you’re in Nice for more than a few days.

Other Things To Do In Nice

Check out the upscale  Cimiez Neighborhood  in the northern part of Nice as it’s home to Roman ruins, beautiful monastery gardens, thermal baths, and a nice park. It’s also home to a few museums — notably the Musée Matisse and Marc Chagall National  Museum.

Take a cruise around Nice to get a beautifully unique perspective of theCôte d’Azur. Trans Côte d’Azur cruise company offers an hour-long cruise along the coastline for €18. They also offer longer cruises to Monaco, Cannes, ST-Tropez, and a few other locations.

For amazing views of Nice , we suggest Castle Hill, the rooftop of the Modern Art Museum, and the Nice Observatory (two-hour walk or an hour bus ride).

Looking for something a bit bizarre? Check out Cunégonde et Malabar — home of conceptual artist Ben Vautier. He decorated the outside of this home in signs, gnomes, toilets, and other found objects. That said, it’s not the easiest place to get to [ See On Google Maps ]. Here are his directions to his place.

Tours and Activities

There are a number of tours and other activities available in Nice and in the area. Check out Viator  to book a wide range of activities. Here are a few highlights:

• Nice City Bike Tour
• French Riviera Electric Bike Tour from Nice
• Half-Day E-Bike Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting from Nice
• Small-Group Nice Food Tour: Provencal Specialties
• Nice Segway Tour
• Provence Countryside Small Group Day Trip

French Riveria Pass & Nice Museum Pass

Looking to fill your days while visiting the French Riviera? Take a look at the newly introduced  French Riviera Pass as it includes admission to multiple museums and activities in Nice and the neighboring towns. The pass comes in three versions 24h(€26), 48h(€38), and 72h(€56). So take a look to see if this pass could save you money on the sites you were probably going to see anyways.

A few of the highlights are:

• Oceanographic Museum in Monaco
• Picasso Museum
• Museum of Modern Art (MAMAC)
• Marc Chagall Museum
• Renoir Museum
• Rothschild Villa and Gardens
• Double-Decker Bus Tour
• Segway Tour
• Bike Rental
• 1-Hour Ocean Cruise

There is also a Nice Museum Pass that gives 7-day access to municipal museums for €20. Check out the Nice Tourism Office for more information on all of Nice’s museums.

Where & What To Eat In Nice

Since Nice is so close to Italy you’ll find that a lot of the food is a mix of French and Italian (there’s plenty of international food as well). Tourism is the main industry in Nice so food prices tend to be a bit on the high side. Luckily, there are still a handful of places serving up quality meals for a fair price but you’ll want to do your research — furthermore, the budget-friendly places fill up quickly so reservations are highly recommended.

Traditional   Cuisine

Want to try traditional Nicoise cuisine ? Look for restaurants that have earned the certification Cuisine Nissarde . These restaurants will have an official sticker posted on their window to let you know they use traditional local recipes made with fresh ingredients. Here’s the official list of the fewer than 30  Cuisine Nissarde Certifies  Restaurants in Nice.

Local Dishes

• Socca: Socca is essentially a thin, slightly crispy chickpea pancake. This traditional street food is a popular on-the-go snack and is often consumed with a cold beer on a sidewalk cafe. You can find Socca at the Nice Farmers Market (the best is  Chez Thérésa ) or at a few restaurants around town (we recommend  Chez Pipo ).
• La Daube Niçoise:  This hearty tradition beef stew is made from red wine, bacon, tomatoes, carrots, mushroom, onions, garlic, and celery and is traditionally served over gnocchi.
• Ravioli Niçois: You can often find the Daube Niçoise in ravioli form as well.
• Salade Niçoise: This traditional Nice salad has lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, tomatoes, olives, anchovies, and olive oil.
• Le Pan Bagnat: This is basically a Salade Niçoise on a sandwich. This is a nice takeaway food.
• Ratatouille: This classic French vegetable dish was invented in Nice.
• Pissaladière: Caramelized onion tart that is often topped with anchovy.
• Petits Farcis: Vegetables (usually eggplant, tomatoes or zucchini) stuffed with meat and vegetables.
• Panisse: Fries made of chickpea flour.
• Tourte de Blettes:  This dessert dish is a bit unusual but it was actually very tasty. It’s made of Swiss chard (a leafy green kind of like spinach), apples, raisins, pine nuts, and brown sugar in a pie crust. Then it’s all topped with powdered sugar. We know, it sounds weird but it was pretty good.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants & Street Food

There are a number of takeaway restaurants where you can order a sandwich, panini, pizza, or other simple street foods. Additionally, you can also find a handful of affordable sit-down restaurants throughout the city — we always recommend making a reservation if possible. And of course, there are a number of grocery stores (like Monoprix ) throughout the city.

Places to Checkout:

Illia Pasta : It’s a small barebones restaurant but the owner/chef serves up fresh, affordable, and tasty pasta. There isn’t much ambiance inside so snag one of the outdoor tables for some lovely al fresco dining. You can also get your pasta to go. Great Old Town location.

Chez Palmyre : An excellent place to get a traditional, home-style French cooking. We recommend their €18 three-course menu. Reservations encouraged.

Creperie Le Trimaran : A nice little crepes place. You can get a savory and dessert crepe for under €10.

L’Atelier de Julien : Friendly pizza joint but it’s a bit outside Old Town.

Made in Sud Pizzeria : Neopolitian pizza place near the Port.

Chez Pipo : The most popular place to get socca.

A Buteghinn : A small restaurant in the middle of Old Town serving up traditional “ certification Cuisine Nissarde” dishes. The restaurant is run/owned by three sweet French women. Mostly outdoor seating. They also have preprepared takeaway food if you’re on the go. Reservations recommended. Cash only.

Lou Pilha Leva : Outdoor picnic style seating at this takeaway restaurant in the heart of Old Town. Stop by for a quick traditional snack and cold beer. The chicken and fries for €8.50 is a solid deal.

Chez Rene Socca : A chaotic and no-frills place in Old Town that serves up local street food at affordable prices. There are tables outside available but you’re required to buy a drink. There is always a line but service is quick.

Badaboom Bistro And BeJuice Bar : Hip hole-in-the-wall restaurant serving organic vegan food and juices. Nice owners. It’s a bit expensive but the quality is solid.

Tartine et Galinette : Another fairly barebones spot serving up cheap but tasty pizza, sandwiches, and other simple meals.

Le Falafel : An authentic family-run middle eastern restaurant serving up fresh falafel and shawarma dishes. Quick and friendly service.

Oliviera : Ok, Oliviera is slightly too expensive to be considered “budget” but the food gets rave reviews and the jovial owner is super welcoming and passionate about olive oil. Everything is homemade by the owner and his wife. Located in the Old Town. Open for lunch only. Reservations strongly suggested.

Farmers Market : The Farmers Market is a great place to get all kinds of fresh produce and prepared food — from cheese and bread to bruschetta and fruit. Open every day, from 6 am to 5.30 pm except Mondays, Sunday afternoons and public holidays.

L’Autre Part : This hip and welcoming wine bar run by a nice couple is a great place to escape the tourist crowds. They serve organic wines as well as excellent charcuterie and cheese. Located in the Port neighborhood.

Ice Cream and Gelato

There are quite a few gelato/ice cream places around Nice but our friend from Nice (she’s Italian so she knows her gelato) gave us a few of her favorite spots.

Cesar Milano: Our friend’s favorite gelato place in Nice was easily Cesar Milano in the New Town. We literally tried about 10 different flavors — each was excellent. The owner/chef is usually on-site and he’s happy to suggest flavor pairings. He makes both classic and a few more creative flavors so don’t be shy about asking to sample a flavor you might normally shy away from.

Oui, Jelato : Our friend also recommended Oui, Jelato in the Old Town. They have mostly classic flavor offerings. We both enjoyed our gelato.

Fenocchio Glacier : Fenocchio is easily the most popular ice cream shop in Nice — there is always a crowd of people jostling for a spot to get their scoops. They have a ton of flavors. We both got ice cream here and enjoyed it. Located in the Old Town.

Nice Day Trips

Nice is surrounded by a number of small cities and towns which make great day trips. Even better, each is easily connected to Nice via bus or train — both of which are very inexpensive. You can also take a ferry from Nice to a few of the towns (it’s a bit more expensive but the views are priceless).

French Riveria Seaside Towns

Below is a list of the most popular cities to visit from Nice — each is located along the coast of the French Riveria.

To the east of Nice , there’s Villefranche-sur-Mer , St. Jean  Cap Ferrat , Eze-le-Village , Monaco , and Menton . To the west of Nice , there’s Antibes and Cannes . There are a few other small towns but these are the most popular destinations.

Villefranche-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a laid-back port town that’s less than a 10-minute train or a 20-minute bus ride (#81 or #100 / €1.50) from Nice. A separate village, Cap Ferrat, is a short bus ride away and are often seen on the same day.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a small seaside postcard-perfect French fishing village with a picturesque port. The cute old town is very small so it takes less than an hour to wander through all its tiny streets (maybe a little more if you get a drink down by the harbor). Perched above the city is an old citadel with thick, imposing walls that you’re free to explore. But the harbor is Villefranche-sur-Mer’s main attraction. Its super deep waters make it a favorite parking spot for mega-yachts. There are a number of restaurants along the port so it’s a great place to have a quiet drink or bite to eat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a 45min-60min hike up to F ort   du   Mont – Alban — an old fortification that has great views of Nice, Villefranche and the rest of the Cote d’Azur. You can also take a bus/uber if you’re feeling lazy.

From Villefranche-sur-Mer, you can take a 15-minute bus ride (Bus #81 / €1.50) to the peninsula of  Cap Ferrat . There isn’t too much to see in the town of St. Jean Cap Ferrat. That said, there are a few fun seasides walks around the peninsula — a walk around the entire peninsula will take a little under 3 hours or a smaller walk (which we took) will take about an hour at a leisurely pace.

The main reason for most people visit is to see the impressive Rothschild Mansion and Gardens . Some people go straight from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Rothschild Mansion (~10minute via bus from Villefranche) and skip the town. The grounds of the Rothschild Mansion are very beautiful and it’s easy to spend a few hours soaking in the views.

Eze-le-Village

Eze is actually separated into two parts — Eze-le-Village and Eze-Bord-de-Mer. We only visited Eze-le-Village (which is perched high in the hills over the ocean) because we were told Eze-Bord-de-Mer (which is located along the coast) doesn’t offer much to see.

From Nice, take bus #82 or #112 and enjoy the views on this 30-minute ride (sit on the righthand side of the bus) to Eze-le-Village. Be sure to check the bus schedule. There is supposed to be one or two buses every hour but for us, it was only once every two hours — which was kind of annoying (maybe since we went off-season).

In Eze-le-Village head up to the Old Town of the village — specifically the Eze Gardens. The views from gardens are well worth the €6 entrance fees. There is a super expensive restaurant/bar (Chateau Eza) with world-class Cote d’Azur views or there are a few cheaper options as well.

There isn’t much more to see in Eze-le-Village (other than two touristy perfume shops) so after getting a quick bite we hopped on the quick bus ride to Monaco.

Monaco is the playground to the ultra, ultra-wealthy so spend a little time looking at the megayachts and fancy cars. From Nice, it’s a quick and cheap 20-minute train ride to Monaco. You can also take the bus but the train is easier, faster, and only a bit more expensive.

Monaco is basically split up into three parts — the Palace Square, the Old Town/Port, and the Monte Carlos Casino. The country is tiny so all the neighborhoods are within walking distance (but there is also a city bus).

• Palace Square:   The palace/Palace Square overlooks the Port and Old Town. The neighborhood also has a nice cliffside garden. The famous Monaco Oceanographic Museum is also in the area.
• Old Town/Port: This is the place to do a little shopping or get something to eat/drink at one of the many sidewalk cafes. Take a look at the yachts.
• Monte Carlos Casino: Blow all your cash for your entire vacation at the Monte Carlos Casino… or win a ton of money and never stop traveling. After 7 pm you probably won’t get into the casino unless your we’ll dressed — i.e. blazer and dress pants for guys. From 2-7pm normal-dressed people can walk around the atrium free-of-charge but it’s a pretty quick visit.

To the east of Monaco is the lovely French seaside town of Menton (which is near the border of Italy). Not many tourists venture to Menton so the town feels much less commercialized than many of the other towns. Spend an hour exploring the pastel buildings of the hilly, medieval Old Town. Have a drink at a quiet sidewalk cafe. The  Jardin botanique exotique du Val Rahmeh is a lovely exotic garden that’s worth a wander. Menton also has a nice sandy beach.

Menton, thanks to its close proximity to Italy, offers quite a few restaurants serving up quality Italian food.

Monton a quick bus or train ride from Monaco and it also has frequent trains to Nice.

Antibes and Cannes

Antibes and Cannes are both located to the west of Nice. It’s a quick 20-minute train to Antibes and a 30-minute train ride to Cannes. There is also a bus but it takes quite a bit longer so the train is recommended.

Antibes has a number of beaches — everything from soft sand to painful pebbles. The beaches can get pretty crowded during the summer. Most of the beaches are public there are a few private beaches if you’re looking for a little more luxe experience.

After you soak in the sun, head to Antibes’ charming Old Town and stroll around the city’s 16th-century ramparts that offer amazing views of the sea. Many people check out the Picasso Museum (€6). Don’t forget to check out Port Vauban — the largest port in the Mediterranian and home to many of the biggest yachts in the world.

If you’re rich and famous then feel free to visit Cannes — otherwise, we suggest skipping it. It’s expensive and there isn’t a huge amount to experience if you don’t have deep pockets.

How To Visit These Seaside Towns

All these cities are located very close to each other and are well-connected via public transportation and tickets are cheap — although it can be a bit tricky since there are multiple bus lines. You can easily visit 1-3 towns in a day.

Via Car/Bus (Corniche Roads)

There are three beautiful scenic “Corniche” cliff-roads that run along the coast from Nice to Monaco/Menton. Bus routes connect the cities (listed below) but they’re less frequent than the train and they take a little longer — but you get beautiful coastal views (if you’re on the righthand side of the bus). That said, the Nice to Monaco bus (which is essentially the longest route) will take about an hour.

Note: All bus tickets cost €1.50 and can be purchased on the bus.  Check the bus schedules since they can change. The Nice Tourism Office should have up-to-date schedules. For example, when were visited, the #82 & #112 bus from Nice to Eze toMonacoo was only running once every two hours.

• The Lower Corniche (Inférieure Corniche) runs along the coast but doesn’t offer great views and is often congested with traffic. It’s served by #81 and #100 bus.
• The Middle Corniche (Moyenne Corniche) has beautiful views of the cliffs/ocean and it’s connected via the #82 and #112 bus.
• The Higher   Corniche (Grande Corniche) is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Europe — which is best explored via car since public transportation isn’t really available.

The train is the easiest/fastest way to get from town to town but you miss out on most of the French Riviera views. For example, the train from Nice to Monaco takes 20 minutes and costs around €4. Also, not all the towns are accessible by train (so you may have to transfer from train to bus for some locations).

More Nice Travel Tips

Trésors Publics is a fun concept store in the Old Town that only sells products made in France. They put a little label on each product to show where in France its made. It’s not exactly budget-friendly but it’s still a fun place to pick up some unique gifts. [ See On Google Maps ]

Head to  La Maison Auer to feed your sweet tooth. This confectionery and chocolate shop has been serving up goodies since 1820. We highly recommend the caramels. And chocolate. And everything else. Located in the Old Town. [ See On Google Maps ]

Take a Free Walking Tour of Nice . The company Beach Riviera Bar Crawl and Tours offers 11:00 am tours every Tuesday till Saturday morning from March 1st to September 30th. Don’t forget that the tour guides work on tips. See their Tripadvisor Reviews .

Meet the locals . Nice is full of friendly locals who are proud of their town and there are a few local volunteers who are happy to show visitors around for two or three hours. Simply request at least a week before arrival and they’ll do their best to pair you up with someone depending on availability. Visit  http://en.nice-greeters.com for more information.

Visit the Nice Tourist Office  for city maps, bus times, and brochures on things to do & see in Nice — plus they have free wifi. The Nice Tourism Website also has a lot of information what’s going on in Nice.

The  Negresco Hotel is Nice’s most high-end hotel and it has a beautiful cocktail bar with authentic walnut woodwork dating back to 1913. The drinks are expensive (€20 for cocktails, ouch) but it’s still a fun way to pretend like you’re living the jet-setter lifestyle for an hour.

The Best Time To Visit  Nice is probably March/Mid-May or September/October as the weather is still nice but the crowds are smaller. The summers can get pretty hot but that’s perfect if you’re spending most of your time at the beach.

For a less-touristy beach experience , we recommend checking out La Réserve or Coco Beach. They’re both a bit outside of town (20-minute walk or a short bus ride). Again, these are rocky beaches so bring proper footwear.

A big breakfast isn’t really a thing in Nice so do like the locals do and head to a boulangerie for croissants, pain aux chocolate, and coffee .

More European Travel Resources

• We’re big fans of Travel Guidebooks and we highly suggest both Rick Steves’ Provance and French Riveria Guidebook & Lonely Planet Provence & the Cote d’Azur . We found that both books had a lot of great information and self-guided walking tours.
• Traveling Europe by train ? Check out our guides to Train Travel In France and Train Travel in Italy .
• Need some packing tips? See our list of the Best Travel Backpacks check out our Europe Packing List .
• Don’t forget to pick up some Travel Insurance .
• Check out our popular  Europe City Price Guides to help estimate your travel costs.

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Travel Guide To Nice

Nice is famous for its belle époque architecture, beachfront promenades and landmark hotels. It may not be as glitzy as other Riviera hotspots (such as St Tropez and Monte Carlo) but is one of the liveliest cities along the coast. Nice is also ideal for exploring the rest of the Côte d'Azur.

Where to stay in Nice

3 avenue des Fleurs, Nice, France (00 33 4 97 07 26 26; fax: 97 07 26 27; www.hi-hotel.net ). The avant-garde design of the 38-room Hi Hotel is outrageously original and fantastic fun. Dreamed up by rising star Mathali Crasset, a student of Philippe Starck, this modern white building on a quiet downtown residential street is geared toward a creative crowd. Modular furniture comes in dazzling Pop Art colours. The rooms, a dazzling medley of fushia, cobalt, sky-blue, violet and chartreuse, are based on nine kooky ideas. The mauve-and-white 'Technocorner' rooms have sliding movie screens for DVD viewing from bathtub or bed; the 'Indoor Terrace' rooms are luminous, loft-like spaces with sunken beds on teak decks lined with bamboo plants and the one-off 'White-White' suite is a pristine loft with a pink Plexiglas bathtub and private rooftop terrace with Jacuzzi. The 24-hour restaurant-bar, a futuristic self-service 'laboratory', serves gourmet delicatessen fare from glass jars and croissant breakfasts with violet-flower jam. Hi Hotel was featured in The Hot List 2003. £

HOSTELLERIE LE PETIT PALAIS

17 avenue Emile Biekert (00 33 4 93 62 19 11; fax: 4 93 62 53 60). This belle époque-style 25-room hotel is minutes from downtown Nice but pleasantly quiet. The sweeping views from the terraces of the first-floor rooms make up for the bland furnishings. £

HOTEL BEAU RIVAGE

24 rue St Francois de Paule (00 33 4 92 47 82 82; www.nicebeaurivage.com ). On the edge of the lively Old Town, one block away from the seafront. The hotel has a minimalist palette of polished wood, beige stone and black-and-white photography. There are 118 rooms, including 11 junior suites, decked out in sober greys blues with big beds and small bathrooms. Prettily presented fresh seafood and fish dishes are served at the beach restaurant. The hotel has a private beach, with a spacious deck, sun loungers and friendly staff. Most rooms face the street or the courtyard. £

HOTEL DE CHATEAU DES OLLIERES

39 avenue des Baumettes (00 33 4 92 15 77 99; fax: 92 15 77 98; www.chateaudesollieres.com ). This ornate, turreted palace was originally created by Russian Prince Lobannov-Rostowsky. The marble statues, moulded ceilings, Viennese crystal chandeliers, Empire chairs and embossed silk tapestries give it an authentic old-world atmosphere. Set in a three-acre park with eight unique and spacious bedrooms. The service is friendly rather than stuffy. ££

HOTEL LA PEROUSE

11 quai Rauba-Capea (00 33 493 62 34 63; fax: 62 59 41; www.hroy.com). For a more economic and stunning sea view, and breakfast under the lemon trees, try the inviting Hôtel La Pérouse with 60 ochre and white rooms, half of which overlook the Bay of Angels. The hotel is only minutes walk from the Old Town. £

HOTEL NEGRESCO

37 promenade des Anglais (00 33 4 93 16 64 00; fax: 88 35 68; www.hotel-negresco-nice.com ). This huge, pink-and-white wedding cake on the Promenade des Anglais is Nice's most expensive seafront hotel. There's no pool, jacuzzi or fitness centre, but that hasn't stopped stars such as Michael Jackson and Isabelle Adjani setting up headquarters here when in Nice. ££

HOTEL OASIS

23 rue Gounod (00 33 4 93 88 12 29; fax 4 93 16 14 40). Refurbished with the inevitable Provencal-inspired decor, this quiet hotel once lodged illustrious Russians including Chekhov and Lenin. The biggest rooms face a shady garden. £

HOTEL PALAIS MAETERLINCK

30 Boulevard Maurice Maeterlinck (00 33 4 92 00 72 00; fax: 4 92 04 18 10; www.palais-maeterlinck.com ). This sprawling, neoclassical hotel is situated on the coastal road which links Nice with Villefranche-sur-mer. It has 40 rooms, a lovely outdoor pool and an enviable panoramic view from almost everywhere on the grounds. The rooms are spacious and modern. Don't be put off by the slightly stiff service and formality of the restuarant, Le Melisande, it is highly rated by serious foodies and well worth the splurge. £

HOTEL WINDSOR NICE

11 rue Dalpozzo (00 33 4 93 88 59 35; www.hotelwindsornice.com ). In the heart of the shopping district near all the upmarket boutiques and three blocks from the beach. This hotel is hip yet unpretentious and in a peaceful setting. It draws artists, musicians and writers after a stylish bargain. There are 58 rooms, including 24 whimsical creations designed by artists including Claudio Parmiggiani, Ben Vautier and Glen Baxter. The restaurant serves tasty Mediterranean dishes and fresh fish are on the menu in the cosy, panelled bar and shady patio restaurant. The lush, tropical garden has century-old rubber trees, palms and twittering birds. There is a swimming pool, but it's the size of a postage stamp. £

LE GRIMALDI

15 rue Grimaldi (00 33 493 16 00 24; fax: 87 00 24). The Grimaldi is a bijou 23-room hotel rescued from insolvency, renamed and newly renovated by Yann and Joanna Zedde. A belle époque townhouse in a quiet street, the Grimaldi has rooms freshened by bright Souleiado fabrics and made enticing by the small touches: the thick, oversized bath towels and robes; breakfast in bed of pastries still warm from the oven, jam that is fruit and not sugar, and intensely rich hot chocolate served in porcelain cups from Limoges. £

The Michelin Red Guide France ( www.ViaMichelin.co.uk ) offers the most exhaustive selection of hotels and restaurants in France.

Where to eat out in Nice

AUBERGE DE LA MADONE Peillon (00 33 4 93 79 91 17). For a memorable Sunday lunch, it is well worth venturing about 12 miles north of Nice to Peillon, where the Auberge de la Madone sits atop a vertiginous 15th-century village perché , with breathtaking views of the wild Alpes-Maritimes. The service is attentive but leisurely. If you are flying home on Sunday evening, allow at least 45 minutes to get to the airport.

By Lauren Burvill

By Connor Sturges

By Tabitha Joyce

By Florrie Thomas

JOUNI 10 rue Lascaris (00 33 4 97 08 29 98). This is a cosy, haute-cuisine bistro in the Old Port.

L'ANE ROUGE 7 quai des Deux-Emmanuel (00 33 4 93 89 49 63; www.anerougenice.com ). This tranquil port-side restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star. Ignore the unremarkable decor and enjoy the explosive flavours of roast red mullet simmered in fennel and tomates confites , croustillant of cod with basil, or rabbit served with foie gras. The wine list includes all the best local vintages. Book a table outdoors in summer for a full view of the illuminated Parc du Château and the big, glamourous yachts.

L'AUTOBUS 142 avenue de Gairaut (00 33 4 93 84 49 88). L'Autobus may be hard to find, but once seated in its garden, surrounded by cypress and olive trees, you will be glad you made the effort. Established in 1928, it's a friendly, family-run bistro with no-frills prices, serving dishes like garlicky squid salad, tourte de blettes (a flaky-crusted pie stuffed with Swiss chard), gnocchi with ceps and home-made tiramisu. It is a popular spot in summer so book ahead.

LA MERENDA 4 rue de la Terrasse. Being immensely popular, and having no telephone, La Merenda is hard to get into. The restaurant is run by Dominique le Stanc, former head chef of the Negresco's famed Chantecler of which it is the absolute antithesis: the menu chalked on a blackboard, paper cloths on 12 minuscule tables, back-breaking wooden stools to sit on and an open kitchen small enough to fit inside a camper van. The decor is rustic and the 'peasant' food shrieks authenticity: daube (a beef and vegetable stew) and stockfish are the specialities. Start with coppa , an Italian ham sliced paper-thin and intensely flavoured, or poutine , tiny fish found only between Antibes and Menton. The 'poor food' pudding - melting pastry filled with spinach, apple, pine nuts and raisins - is astonishingly good.

LA PETITE MAISON Directly opposite the Opera House, at 11 rue St-François-de-Paule (00 33 493 92 59 59; www.lapetitemaison-nice.com ). La Petite Maison is fashionable and crowded but expect indolent waiters and a fearsome Madame who is given to sweeping a glass from your table and smashing it on the floor. It is supposed to be a joke but it can be alarming. It is also the late-night dining spot of choice for visiting glitterati. Its classic starter is a Nicois platter: pissaladière , onion, anchovy and black-olive tart, stuffed vegetables, courgette-flower and aubergine fritters, artichoke salad and fresh prawns dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. The house ice cream, with pine nuts and candied orange blossoms is heavenly. Check the bill and the credit-card slips you are asked to sign as overcharging has been noted here.

LE SAFARI 1 Cours Saleya (00 33 493 80 18 44). Of the Old Town bistros, Le Safari is wildly popular with the young French crowd, despite (or because of) the deafening pop music. The food is authentic and good, much of it cooked on an open wood fire.

CHEZ THERESA Cours Saleya market, Vieux Nice area. There is always a queue at the Chez Thérésa stand for her paper-thin crepes made from chickpea flour and olive oil, cooked in huge open pans and eaten hot with a sprinkling of black pepper. Open Tuesday to Sunday mornings.

What to see in Nice

From the Chagall and Matisse collections to a splendid Russian Orthodox Cathedral built in memory of Grand-Duke Nicolas, and the atmospheric churches of the Old Town, there is a surfeit of things to see. However, Nice is still rejuvenating itself, and many of the attractions are in a state of flux.

OPERA DE NICE Now that the facelift of its façade is complete, the Opéra de Nice stands out as one of the loveliest examples of 19th-century architecture in the city. Its programme of symphonies, ballet and opera features top-notch visiting performances.

ILE SAINTE MARGUERITE This island, off the coast of Cannes, is a day trip from Nice. A peaceful sanctuary of pine and eucalyptus trees, winding paths and rocky turquoise creeks, it's a superb place for a picnic and there's the added attraction of the Musée de la Mer in the Fort Royal, where legend has it, the Man with the iron mask was imprisoned for 11 years.

L'ATELIER SOARDI 8 rue Desire Niel (00 33 4 93 62 32 03; www.soardi.fr ). Once the workshop of Henri Matisse, this is now a private gallery presenting seasonal shows featuring the Ecole de Nice, a group of experimental artists who got together in the city in the 1960s. Soardi also offers guided cultural excursions to Nice and Vence to explore Matisse's ever-evolving approach to his art.

THE MUSEE D'ART MODERNE ET D'ART CONTEMPORAIN, (MAMAC) Promenade des Arts (00 33 4 97 13 42 01; www.mamac-nice.org ). This sprawling, multi-level marble building full of contemporary European and American art which also hosts first rate seasonal shows. Don't miss the permanent Ecole de Nice collection.

COLLINE DU CHATEAU Parc du Château: Vieux Nice area. Climb the stairs to the top of the grassy park known as the Colline du Château, where Greeks settled in the 4th century and created a city called Nikaia after the goddess of victory. For magnificent views, continue further up to the highest point, where Friedrich Nietzsche would often stroll while composing his masterwork, Thus Spake Zarathustra .

Nice is also an ideal base for exploring the rest of the Côte d'Azur. Cannes is only 40 minutes away by train, or go to Antibes for sandy beaches, winding streets and the Picasso Museum.

Where to shop in Nice

The Avenue Jean Médecin is the Oxford Street of Nice and can be avoided, but don't miss Galeries Lafayette, a department store brimming with treasures. Also avoid the tacky Rue de France, but do stroll along the Rue Paradis adjoining it, where most of Nice's international designer stores offer the choice and sophistication of Paris (or Milan for shoes) on a compact scale. Boutique 3, at 3 rue Longchamp, sells creamy tablecloths, white linen shirts, shawls and desirable shoes in neutral colours, such as Edith Mezard's cashmere mules and her Eau de Ligne. Movida at 2 rue Longchamp, sells a mix of cool sportswear from France (Mugler), Italy (Exté, D & G) and the UK (Paul Smith). Kids rule at AF Company, 1 rue Longchamp, the store for Eurotots with attitude. Désert, 9 rue Alphonse Karr, offers flowing cotton dresses and neo-happy chic at high prices. Equinoxe, rue de la Buffa, sells second-hand designer clothes - Versace, Dolce et Gabbana, Anna Sui - at (relatively) knockdown prices. Porte du Sud, at 19 rue de la Préfecture, sells modern versions of the quilts, or boutis , that no marriageable Provençal girl would have been without.

ALZIARI 14 rue Saint-François-de-Paule. (00 33 4 93 85 76 92; www.alziari.com.fr ) This is a shrine for lovers of olive oil. You can buy its oil in London and New York, but get it here for a third of the price, in beautiful cans that preserve the oil better than bottles. The shop is an Ali Baba's cave that also sells tapenade and other delicacies, including orange-blossom water (reputed to send fretful babies to sleep). Auer, just across the street, proclaims '170 Ans de Pères en Fils': a magical patisserie/confiserie with a small teashop tucked in the back, it sells delicious jams.

LA PART DES ANGES 17 rue Gubernatis (00 33 4 93 62 69 80). This small, inviting shop is where all the star chefs come for tastings and to replenish their own cellars. Owner and sommelier Olivier Labarde offers expert advice on his superb selection of local and rare vintages and serves excellent bistro fare at a handful of tables in the back of the shop.

LES EAUX DE MARS 11 rue Defly (00 33 4 93 01 47 17). The latest arrival on a newly fashionable street near the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, this boutique sells one-off pieces for women and children, from 15 young, mainly Italian designers.

LIBRAIRIE GALERIE JACQUES MATARASSO 2 rue Longchamp (00 33 4 93 87 74 55; www.laure-matarasso.com ). This tiny bookstore and gallery is a pioneering business that sells original lithographs by many great artists from Matisse to Ernst, plus a rare selection of contemporary art books, first editions and engravings.

L'OLIVIER 7 rue St-Francois de Paule (00 33 4 93 08 25 26; www.alolivier.com ). A gleaming wooden boutique with beautifully packaged, flavoured olive oils, plus a choice of local Niçois nectars on tap. The lemon-ginger and olive-orange jams are outstanding.

How to get to Nice

AIRPORT Nice Côte d'Azur airport is located 7km from the centre of town. AIRLINES FROM THE UK You are spoilt for choice, with British Airways (0844 493 0787; www.british-airways.com ), Air France (0871 66 33 777; www.airfrance.com ), British Midland (0844 8484 888; www.flybmi.com ) and easyJet (0905 821 0905; www.easyjet.com ) all offering direct flights.

Nice – 12 tips for Sustainable Tourism and Luxury Travel in 2024

Nice is special to me. Since I came into this world, I’ve more or less visited the city and the wider French Riviera, Côte d’Azur, every year of my life. Yes, I’m a huge fan. And what’s not to like? 300 days of sunshine, an intense azure sea, incredible food, jaw-dropping vistas, and of course the glamour which has made it a draw for luxury travel. The coast is an endless string of ritzy destinations. Cannes, St Tropez, Èze, Antibes, Monaco are hard to beat, but Nice is not just about opulence and elegance. The city’s natural beauty is as captivating. The mesmerising colour of the sea provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Mountains, fragrant blossoms and lush greenery create a serene oasis amidst the vibrant urban landscape. The good news doesn’t stop there. Nice oozes culture, and has pledged itself to sustainable tourism.

Marseille – 12 Tips for Sustainable Tourism and Luxury Travel in 2024

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Solo Female Travel in Peru – Lima, Machu Picchu, and Nazca

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• 11 Best Places To Visit In Nice To Create A Bundle Of Memories In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

Nice is one of the most beautiful cities in France. During the Roman period, it served as the capital of France. It was also a part of the Kingdom of Sardinia. It is often counted as a favorite holiday destination as the deep blue waters of Cote d Azur has along with the Mediterranean climate have always attracted tourists from all over the world. Termed as a lonely planet, where people can spend quality time with their loved ones, Nice boasts of 18th-century vibes with the old town rests. Nice has a cosmopolitan culture, but the fact that its existence dates back to the 4th century has made the city a hub for the history lovers. Though it often gets shadowed with cities like Paris and Cannes, planning a holiday here will be nothing less than a treat in nature’s lap. So, here is a list of the best places to visit in Nice that you can cover on your holiday this year.

11 Places To Visit In Nice

Nice has a lot of places to explore when you are visiting there, but this list has mentioned some of the must-visit places.

1. Marc Chagall National Museum

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First on the list of places to visit in Nice is Marc Chagall National Museum. It is one of the most famous museums in Nice that features paintings, mosaics, etc. The construction of this museum commenced in the year 1970 on a vast plot of land. The museum exhibits a great collection of Russian painter named Marc Chagall. Chagall participated in the project of building the museum and decorating the same with a stained glass window and mosaic works. The painter is very famous for its figurative works. The main attraction of this museum is that it holds 12 paintings that illustrate Genesis and Exodus. All these paintings are hung on the walls along in a three diamond layout. You will also come across 105 engravings that are based on biblical stories.

Location: 36 Avenue Dr. Menard, 06000 Nice, France Entry fees:  None Timings: 10.00 AM – 6.00 PM

Must Read: Top 12 Things To Do In Nice To Experience The Best Of French Riviera’s Gem

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2. Musee Massena

This place was originally built as a holiday home for Prince Victor d Esslin. He was the grandson of one of Napoleon’s generals. This building is constructed lavishly. This place is also considered as one of the most iconic architectural landmarks of this city. The building was constructed between the years 1898 to 1901. The structure of this building imitates a neoclassical style and architecture is the main highlight of the place. The building was built by a Danish architect named Hans George Tersling. He was also responsible for erecting other important buildings during the belle époque. The ground floor is sometimes utilized for official occasions.

Location: Nice, France Entry fees:  10-20 Euros Timings: 10.00 AM – 6.00 PM (except Tuesday)

Suggested Read: Cruises In France: 9 Wonderful Water Tours To Experience The Beauty And Culture Of France

3. St. Nicholas Cathedral

It is said to be a very orthodox church that has been built by the Royal family mainly for the Russian community who has been exiled to the French Riviera. The construction of this church began almost during the mid of 1800 when the Russian upper class along with the Tsars visited the French Riviera during the winter period. The structure of the church was built in Old Russian style, but certain elements give this Cathedral its own identity. There is a big garden that surrounds the whole church. It contains some rare species of flora. A few years ago, the church was closed for some renovation work and on 19th December 2015, the church was opened for the visitors. If you are planning to explore France on your next vacation then you must explore St. Nicholas Cathedral as it is one of the best places to visit in Nice. 

Location: 2 Avenue Nicholas II, Nice, France Entry fees : None Timings: 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM

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4. Parc Forestier Du Mont-Boron

Covering a large area, it is a hilltop forest featuring large picnic areas, trees, places for exercise, hiking trails, etc. This park covers about 57 hectares of Mediterranean plants that include olive trees and Alesso pine. If you are tired of daily life, then this park can be the best place where you can sit and relax for some time. This park and the forest will lead you to the Fort Alban. It is a 16th-century castle that is well preserved till date. There is also a 1.5 km fitness trail that can be used by the tourists.

Location: 4 Boulevard Maurice Maeterlinck, 06300, Nice, France Entry fees:  None Timings: Open 24 hours

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5. Fine Arts Museum

Built during the 19th century, the Fine Arts Museum is counted among the top places to visit in Nice. The museum was opened in the year 1928 and consists of a huge collection of pictorial works. The collection of the museum retraces the history of art and sculpture that date back from the 16th to the 20th century. The collection also includes some of the sundry Italian works that are intriguing. One can gain a lot of information about the ancient art and culture that prevailed in the early days. It can be a great place for the students who are doing research work on the ancient arts and architecture of France.

Location: 33 Avenue des Baumettes, 06000 Nice. France Entry fees : 10-20 Euros Timings: 10.00 AM – 6.00 PM

Suggested Read: French Coastal Towns: A Breathtaking Journey Along France’s Mesmerizing Coastline

6. Castle Hill Of Nice

Castle Hill of Nice is one of the main attractions of this place. It consists of the ruins of defensive walls, an artificial waterfall along with an elevator that is built into the rock. The Castle Hill divides the seaside part of Nice into two main parts. One is the eastern part with the port and the second one is the western part with the old town of Nice. It was during the 4th century, when there was a Greek settlement took place in this place that was named Nikaia. The artificial waterfall present here was built at the end of the 19th century. You can get a stunning view of the old port of Nice from this place. Never miss visiting this place once you are at Nice.

Location: Nice, France

Suggested Read: This Edible Chocolate Cottage In France is What ‘Sweet Dreams’ Are Made Of!

7. Place Garibaldi

This place is one of the largest squares and the best place to visit in Nice. It is a short walk from Musee d Art Moderne d Art Contemporain. The building was designed during the 18th century. This square has a modern and urban feel. This is because it is located at the junction of four traffic thoroughfares and is crossed by a tramline. There is a statue of the famous Vice president name Garibaldi. He was an Italian freedom fighter who did a lot for this country. The architecture is also a highlight of the square, which you would appreciate. It is on the edge of the old town. There are various types of café’s lines up where you can enjoy a sip of coffee with a soothing ambiance accompanying you.

Location: 1 Place Garibaldi | Place Garibaldi, 06300 Nice, France

Suggested Read: 10 Exotic Wildlife In France That You Can Spot On Your Vacation

8. Nice Etoile

It is located in the Nice City Centre. A great number of cafes and eateries line up the street. Most of the shops sell branded products. If you are planning to buy something for your loved ones then it can be the best place for shopping. Apart from this, you can also shop for some local products from the shops that are located inside the shopping center. There are a number of reputed restaurants that are famous for selling local foods. You should taste the ice-cream and coffee as they taste different here. You can access the free wifi facility that is available in this place.

Location: 30 Avenue Jean-Medecin, 06000 Nice, France Timings: 10.00 AM – 7.30 PM

Suggested Read: Take These 10 Day Trips From Marseilles Offering The Best Of France City Tour!

9. Marche A La Brocante

It is the best antique market, that is famous for selling different types of ancient products and jewelry. If you are passionate about costume, jewelry, leather bags or silk scarves, then it can probably be the best place for shopping such items. Linen table cloths and sheets are also found in abundance here. Real antique and porcelain products are available in this market. You can get them at a very reasonable price. It is best to visit this market during the early morning. As the day passes, this place becomes quite crowded. Most of the vendors start wrapping their shops around 3.00 PM. Try to complete your shopping at that time. There are ample café around the market. So, you can easily take a break.

Location: Cours Saleya, 06300 Nice, France Timings: 7.00 AM – 4.00 PM

Suggested Read: Celebrate Christmas In France For A Majestic, Magical, And Merry Holiday

10. Place Massena

Nice is a city of a distinctive culture and one can have an insight into that culture at Place Massena, which happens to be the city’s largest square. This place is a center of the main gatherings and events for the community living here. One of the major highlights of the square is the 17th-century architecture that covers the places from each side. Post the construction of tramway transportation, the square serves as the pedestrian zone. There is one art installed in the square from a Spanish artist named Jaume Plensa. The pieces of the art comprise of sculptures at the top of the pillars. There is also a large fountain with an Apollo statue in the very middle of the square.

Location: 13 Place Massena, 06000 Nice, France

Suggested Read: France Nightlife: Learn The French Way To Get High On Life

11. Vieux Nice

Vieux Nice otherwise known as Vieux Ville is an old town of the city that is spread from the bottom of the Castle Hill to the Place Massens, which the main square of the city. You will get medieval vibes here and the ambiance will take you to the history when Nice was an independent Italian state. The streets are adorned with gold paint, red tile roofs, and Italianate facades. You can even visit any of the many cafes and eateries that are lined up in the streets.

Location: Old Nice Nice, France

Further Read: France In December : A Guide To Explore The Country Of Romance Amidst The Beautiful Snow

Nice is a beautiful city that is located on the banks of the French Riviera. There are ample things to see in this place. Apart from the museums and shopping places or churches, you can also come across various small seaside towns that are beautiful and charming. If you want to explore the pastoral region of Provence, then it is best to visit the countryside of Nice. Make sure that you explore all these places to visit in Nice on your vacation to Nice .

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Nice

What places can you visit from Nice?

La Trinite, Saint-Laurent-du-Var, La Gaude, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Carros, Vence, Moneghetti, Fontvieille, etc. are some of the popular cities near Nice to explore.

How to reach Nice?

Nice has its airport, Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, which is located merely 8 km from the main city. Being an international airport, anyone can reach there directly from any part of the world. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or a bus to reach the main city.

Is it safe to visit Nice during Covid?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Avoid crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces. Maintain social distancing and remain masked in public places.

What are the major attractions in Nice?

Being a popular city in France and perched on the banks of the French Riviera, the place is filled with historical monuments and intricate architecture. Marc Chagall National Museum, Castle Hill of Nice, and Vieux Nice are some of the major tourist attractions of the city.

What is the ideal duration of the trip to spend in Nice?

Nice has a lot of things to experience and places to explore. So a 3 days trip should be planned to cover all the important parts of the city.

Which is the nearest airport to Nice?

Nice houses its own airport, known as Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, which is merely 8 km away from the main city of Nice.

What are the must-try dishes of Nice?

When visiting nice, you must indulge in local food tasting spree, and some of the must-try dishes are Socca (aka, Farinata), Pissaladière, arcis Niçois (aka, Les Petits Farcis), and Salade Niçoise.

What are some other nearby cities to Nice that are famous tourist destinations?

Nice has a lot of nearby cities that are famous for tourism and some of them are Turin (Italy), Lyon, France, and Milan, Italy.

How many museums are there in Nice?

Nice hosts 3 museums, these are the Museum of Asian Art located, the Franciscan Monk Museum, and Villa Arson.

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NASA space telescope finds Earth-size exoplanet that's 'not a bad place' to hunt for life

Gliese 12 b is tantalizingly close and moderately warm, situated just 40 light-years away around a red dwarf star.

Scientists using a NASA space telescope have discovered a tantalizing world. It's about the size of Earth, sits remarkably close to our solar system, and could be comfortable for life as we know it.

The extrasolar planet, or " exoplanet ," named Gliese 12 b, orbits a small and cool  red dwarf star  located just around 40 light-years from  Earth  in the constellation  Pisces . The exoplanet — which the team found with NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) — is estimated to have a width around 1.1 times that of Earth, making it similar to our planet as well as Venus, which is often called our world's solar system "twin."

Gliese 12 b orbits its star, Gliese 12, so closely that its year lasts just 12.8 Earth days. However, because the red dwarf Gliese 12 is just around a quarter of the size of the sun, it is also much cooler than our star. This means that, even though Gliese 12 b is at a distance from its red dwarf parent equivalent to just 7% of the distance between the sun and Earth, it still is in its planetary system's habitable zone. Also known as the " Goldilocks Zone ," the habitable zone is the region around a star that is neither too hot nor too cold for planets to host liquid water, a vital ingredient for life as we know it. Though, importantly, the two teams behind the discovery of Gliese 12 b can't yet say for sure if it has an atmosphere. It therefore remains unclear if the world could be habitable, but the researchers have some cautious optimism.

Related: Young 'cotton candy' exoplanet the size of Jupiter may be shrinking into a super-Earth

"The majorly interesting thing is that this is a planet that's really nearby; in fact, it's one of the closest transiting planets to Earth," University College of London scientist Larissa Palethorpe, who co-led the research with University of Southern Queensland astrophysicist Shishir Dholakia, told Space.com. "It's either in the habitable zone of its star or it is right on the edge of it — so, it could be habitable."

If Earth and Venus had a child

Scientists spotted Gliese 12 b as it crossed, or " transited," the face of its parent red dwarf star . These transits cause tiny dips in light that TESS is adept at spotting. Palethorpe added that, when the team went into this project, they didn't know what the orbital period or the size of the planet would be for sure. 

"To find it to be such a similar size to Earth was kind of a lovely surprise," she continued. "So that was a really nice thing to be able to nail down, but I think especially knowing that, in terms of habitability, it could lie between Earth and Venus, is really exciting."

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Gliese 12 b receives around 85% of the radiation that Venus gets from the sun, but is thought to have a much cooler surface temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) compared to Venus' surface temperature of 867 degrees Fahrenheit (464 degrees Celsius).

Though Earth and Venus are both in the sun's habitable zone , one can support life and has a favorable atmosphere, while the other is an inhospitable hellscape with temperatures hot enough to melt lead. Studying Gliese 12 b could help us understand why this is the case.

"Gliese 12 b could teach us a lot about how our own solar system has developed as well," Palethorpe added.

The team will now investigate whether Gliese has an atmosphere — but early indications are that, if it does, that atmosphere would be relatively thin. Perhaps surprisingly, however, the lack of a thick atmosphere is good news for the planet's habitability prospects.

"We know some planets have very thick atmospheres of hydrogen that cover the entire planet. This very thick gas layer is actually bad news for habitability," Palethorpe's fellow UCL researcher, Vincent Van Eylen, told Space.com. "Usually, these planets are two or three times the size of Earth. Gliese 12 b is the actual size of Earth, so it probably doesn't have this very thick atmosphere. 

"It could either have no atmosphere , which would not be great for habitability, or it would have this sort of thin atmosphere, kind of like the Earth's."

Still, even if Gliese 12 b does not have an atmosphere, it could still be an important test subject for advancing our search for life elsewhere in the Milky Way. That's because, as a red dwarf, the star it orbits happens to be the most common form of star in our galaxy — yet one we know relatively little about when it comes to red dwarf planetary systems.

Life around red dwarfs 

In the Milky Way, red dwarfs comprise the largest family of stars that are still fusing hydrogen to helium in their cores, a process that defines the so-called " main sequence " lifetime of a star. It is estimated that 60% to 70% of the stars in our galaxy are red dwarfs like Gliese 12, and of the 30 stars closest to Earth, at least 20 are red dwarfs.

"It's interesting to know about planets around the small stars, what they might be like, and whether such planets could have life," Van Eylen added.

Officially known as K-type or M-type stars, red dwarfs have between 7.5% and 50% of the mass of the sun. This low mass, relative to the sun, means such stars burn at a lower temperature, reaching only 6,380 degrees Fahrenheit (3,500 degrees Celsius) compared to the 9,900 degrees Fahrenheit (5,500 degrees Celsius) temperature of our star. For instance, Gliese 12 has a surface temperature around 60% that of the sun.

This lower temperature means that dimly shining red dwarfs can exist as main sequence stars for much longer than moderately massive stars like the sun can. Though the sun is expected to live for around 10 billion years, red dwarfs are predicted to have lifetimes tens, or even hundreds, of times this period. Sometimes, that figure can extend to trillions of years. What this means is life would have more time to develop on planets orbiting red dwarfs than it would on planets around larger main-sequence stars.

But, it isn't all good news for the prospects of life on red-dwarf-orbiting exoplanets. 

Though they are cooler than the sun in their stellar adulthood, red dwarfs are believed to be much wilder than our star. This class of star is believed to be highly magnetically active, blasting out frequent and powerful flares of high-energy light in the form of X-rays . These X-rays can violently strip the atmosphere of a planet close to a red dwarf.

Additionally, recent research has suggested that even red dwarfs that remain placid for many years can suddenly erupt with superflares 100 to 1,000 times more powerful than the sun's solar flares . These eruptions are more common in the youth of this stellar class and are also capable of stripping atmospheres and boiling away liquid water, even in habitable zones.

At the moment, though, both teams involved in the discovery of Gliese 12 b think the red dwarf in orbit is relatively calm, which could be good news for the exoplanet's chance of possessing an atmosphere.

Red dwarf exoplanets are good TESS targets

The fact that red dwarfs are cooler than stars like the sun and thus their habitable zones are closer to the stars actually makes detecting exoplanets around them a little easier for TESS and its transit method of planet-hunting.

"We have biases towards detecting planets that are close to their host stars essentially, just because they transit more often. When we find planets orbiting red dwarfs because they're smaller stars, the dimming of the transit is bigger," Palethorpe said. "Because red dwarfs are slightly cooler, the habitable zone lies closer to the star than it would for our kind of sun, which means we're more likely to detect planets in the habitable zone with TESS."

The team will have to turn to other instruments than TESS to investigate this planet further. They will also switch to a different method of exoplanet detection to better define the characteristics of Gliese 12 b. One is called the " radial velocity method ," which utilizes the tiny wobbles planets cause in the motion of their stars as they gravitationally tug on those stars. 

"I think next really is to nail down the mass of the planet. We are already actively doing that as part of the High Accuracy Radial velocity Planet Searcher for the Northern hemisphere (Harps North) team, which is a radial velocity telescope," Palethorpe said. "Then we've also got another proposal accepted with the European Organization for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere ( ESPRESSO ), which is another radial velocity telescope. And so, hopefully, from kind of the radial velocity observations, we will do this."

Palethorpe and Van Eylen also hope to be granted time with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to further investigate the planet's atmosphere. This is possible because as Gliese 12 b transits the face of its star, light passing through its atmosphere will carry the characteristic fingerprints of elements in the atmosphere. 

This process is called " transmission spectroscopy ," and Gliese 12 b is only one of a handful of temperate Earth-like worlds that are close enough to be examined in this way.

The JWST is currently conducting a similar investigation for the seven Earth-like planets of the TRAPPIST-1 system , located around 40 light-years away. These planets resemble Gliese 12 b in that not only are many of them in the habitable zone of their star, but that star is also a small and cool red dwarf.

"I think with the JWST, we will get at least some clues about the atmosphere of this planet, which would be, I think, the most, the next most exciting thing to do, now that it's been discovered," Van Eylen said.

—  Cotton candy exoplanet is 2nd lightest planet ever found

—  Earth-size planet discovered around cool red dwarf star shares its name with a biscuit

—  Star blows giant exoplanet's atmosphere away, leaving massive tail in its wake

When it comes to the possibility of Gliese 12 b hosting life, the two scientists are extremely cautious. After all, it is early days for both our understanding of this world and methods that would be capable of detecting signs of life in an exoplanet atmosphere , even one so relatively close as Gliese 12 b.

"I think Gliese 12 b will teach us a lot about life, but we can't say anything for certain. I think it's very exciting, and we should definitely look forward to more research coming out about Gliese 12 b," Palethorpe concluded. "It's not a bad place to start on a hunt for life."

The two teams' research was published on Thursday (May 23) in The Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society and The Astrophysical Journal Letters. 

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Robert Lea is a science journalist in the U.K. whose articles have been published in Physics World, New Scientist, Astronomy Magazine, All About Space, Newsweek and ZME Science. He also writes about science communication for Elsevier and the European Journal of Physics. Rob holds a bachelor of science degree in physics and astronomy from the U.K.’s Open University. Follow him on Twitter @sciencef1rst.

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• rod "Though, importantly, the two teams behind the discovery of Gliese 12 b can't yet say for sure if it has an atmosphere. It therefore remains unclear if the world could be habitable, but the researchers have some cautious optimism." Okay, approaching Gliese 12 b with caution here :) There was plenty of hope for K2-18 b but apparently faded now for finding evidence of biological life on that exoplanet, https://forums.space.com/threads/exoplanets-surface-may-be-covered-in-oceans-james-webb-space-telescope-finds.63084/ Reply

rod said: There was plenty of hope for K2-18 b but apparently faded now for finding evidence of biological life on that exoplanet, https://forums.space.com/threads/exoplanets-surface-may-be-covered-in-oceans-james-webb-space-telescope-finds.63084/

The inference of DMS is less robust and requires further validation. “Upcoming Webb observations should be able to confirm if DMS is indeed present in the atmosphere of K2-18 b at significant levels,” explained Madhusudhan.

• rod Something I note near the end of the space.com report on Gliese 12 b. "..."I think Gliese 12 b will teach us a lot about life, but we can't say anything for certain. I think it's very exciting, and we should definitely look forward to more research coming out about Gliese 12 b," Palethorpe concluded. "It's not a bad place to start on a hunt for life." The two teams' research was published on Thursday (May 23) in The Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society and The Astrophysical Journal Letters" The exoplanet sites are updated now with the data and properties. Example, https://exoplanet.eu/catalog/gliese_12_b--9035/ https://exoplanetarchive.ipac.caltech.edu/overview/Gliese%2012%20b#planet_Gliese-12-b_collapsible My note, Gliese 12 b is said to be 7 billion years old, far older than our Sun. Non-living matter evolving into life on this exoplanet, followed by nearly 7 billion years of evolution, perhaps today ET lives there and phones home from other locations in the galaxy too :) Reply
• equusmtn I just want to say I think science writers, and people in general, throw around the term "habitable" too liberally. Habitable by whom? If you mean "life could exist there" that's one thing, but people's minds quickly jump to the idea that habitable means "humans could live there." Although its radius is similar to Earth's, Gliese 12 b is 3.87 earth masses according to NASA's website. Even if it had a comfy temperature and a nice 02-N2 atmosphere, unless I'm seriously mistaken, the gravity would quickly kill a human. It just bugs me to read articles describing exoplanets several times as masive as Earth as "habitable." Please say "potentially life-supporting" or another more accurate term instead. Reply
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Solar eclipse 2024: A traveller’s guide to the best places to be when the light goes out

O n 8 April 2024, a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America , providing an astronomical experience in many alluring locations.

Only a tiny proportion of humanity has ever witnessed a total eclipse – but tens of millions of people will be able to experience one as the “path of totality” sweeps from the Pacific to the Atlantic during the course of that magical Monday.

Here’s what you need to know about why you should see it and where to be.

What happens during a total solar eclipse?

The greatest show on earth comes courtesy of the lifeless moon. Normally the orbiting lunar lump merely provides earth with tides, moonlight and somewhere to aim space rockets. But roughly once a year the natural satellite aligns with the sun and, thanks to a geometric miracle, blots out the hub of the solar system to create a total eclipse.

“Even though the moon is 400 times smaller than the sun, it’s also about 400 times closer to earth than the sun is,” says Nasa. “This means that from earth, the moon and the sun appear to be roughly the same size in the sky.”

A narrow band marking the “path of totality” carves an arc of darkness across the surface of our planet. If you are somewhere on that line at the predicted time, and you have clear skies, then the experience will become a lifelong memory.

The closer you are to the centre of the path of totality, the longer the total eclipse will last. The astronomer Dr John Mason, who has guided dozens of eclipse trips (and will be doing so again in 2024), says: “People down in southwest Texas will get about four minutes 20 seconds, and that reduces to about three minutes 20 seconds up in the northeast. That’s a pretty good, long total eclipse.”

What’s so good about seeing an eclipse?

In the days leading up to the eclipse, locations in the path of totality acquire something of a carnival atmosphere as astronomical tourists converge in excited anticipation.

On the day, the cosmological performance begins with a warm-up lasting more than an hour, during which the moon steadily nibbles away at the surface of the sun.

Suddenly, you experience totality. The stars and planets appear in the middle of the day. The air chills.

To testify to the heavenly fit between our two most familiar heavenly bodies, faint diamonds known as Baily’s beads peek out from behind the moon. They actually comprise light from the sun slipping through lunar valleys.

A sight to behold – so long as you can see the moon blotting out the sun and appreciate the mathematical perfection of nature in our corner of the galaxy.

Eclipses are entirely predictable: we know the stripes that the next few dozen will paint upon the surface of the Earth. But the weather is not. Cloud cover, which blighted the Cornwall eclipse in 1999, downgrades a cosmological marvel to an eerie daytime gloom.

Almost as predictable as the eclipse is that traffic towards the path of totality will be heavy on the morning of 8 April 2024.

Accommodation rates are astronomical: even humdrum motel rooms in Niagara, central in the path of totality, are selling for C$600 (£350) for the night of 7-8 April 2024.

Where will the great American eclipse 2024 be visible?

The path of totality makes landfall from the Pacific at Mazatlan on Mexico’s Pacific Coast and sweeps northeastwards to reach the US-Mexican border at Piedras Negras.

In the US, three big Texan cities – San Antonio, Austin and Dallas – are on the extremes of the path of totality; many citizens are likely to drive to locations near the centre of the line.

Arkansas will be an attractive place to see the eclipse , with both Texarkana (on the border with Texas) and Little Rock within the path of totality.

In the Midwest, Indianapolis and Cleveland share the distinction of being fairly central in the path of totality. In upstate New York, Buffalo and nearby Niagara Falls (shared with Canada) could be extremely attractive – though prone in early April to cloudy skies.

In Canada , Montreal is just touched by the path of totality. The line then reverts to the US, passing across northern Maine – which promises to be a superb with clear skies. Then back to Canada’s Maritime Provinces, with New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland all in the line of darkness.

Will I be able to see a partial eclipse from the UK?

Yes. The eclipse ends with the sunset in the eastern Atlantic, about 600 miles off the coast of Cornwall , before it reaches the UK and Ireland . But on the island of Ireland and western parts of Great Britain, a partial eclipse may be visible with the sun low in the sky.

If skies are clear and you have an open view to the west, it will start at around 7.55pm in Cardiff, Liverpool , Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

BBC Weather presenter Simon King said: “With the partial solar eclipse occurring late in the day UK time, the Sun will be low to the horizon and will actually set before the spectacle is over.”

Can I combine an exciting city with a partial eclipse?

Boston, New York and Chicago are among the big cities that will see a sizeable chunk of the sun blotted out. Viewer as far apart as Alaska and the far north of Colombia and the Caribbean will, if skies are clear and they use the correct eye protection, see a partial eclipse. But there is nothing to compare with a total eclipse.

Eclipse guru Dr Mason sums up the difference between a 99 per cent partial eclipse and a total eclipse as far apart as “a peck on the cheek and a night of passion”.

“There will be people who will look at the map and say, ‘I live in Cincinnati or I live in Columbus [Ohio] and I’m just outside the zone of totality. But I’m going to get a 99 per cent-plus eclipse, so maybe I won’t bother to travel’.

“What they don’t realise is there an enormous difference between 99 per cent and 100 per cent. And there’s a range of phenomena that they won’t see if they put up with 99 per cent.”

You must use special eclipse safety glasses or viewers when viewing a partial eclipse or during the partial phases of a total solar eclipse.

Where should I be for the total experience?

There are no guarantees of clear skies: all you can do is play the odds based on the record of cloud cover for the corresponding date in previous years.

Dr Mason says the average expected cloud cover amounts increase from around 40-45 per cent on the Mexico/Texas border to over 80 per cent in Maine, New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

Three particularly tempting locations:

• Southern Texas , close to San Antonio or Austin. Besides clear skies being more likely than not, access is easy with direct flights to Austin. Importantly there is much to explore in the region before and after the eclipse, from Big Bend National Park on the Rio Grande to Space Center Houston – an excellent place to continue the cosmological theme.
• Northern Arkansas , a picturesque part of the state, with the added attraction of Memphis just a couple of hours away.
• Niagara Falls : the dramatic border between the US and Canada could be an eclipse washout due to clouds. But the natural surroundings are impeccable – and there is plenty of accommodation, which will avoid the risk of being caught in severe traffic congestion on the freeways from Toronto and locations in New York State.

However, the most recent forecasts for cloud cover suggest that the Midwest around Indianapolis and the northeastern state of Maine could have the best prospects.

When are the next total solar eclipses?

Summer 2026 – Wednesday 12 August, to be precise – should bring a spectacular eclipse visible in northern Spain at the height of the European holiday season. The path of totality begins in the Arctic and crosses Greenland and Iceland before arriving in the northern half of Spain. The stripe of darkness will traverse the great cities of Bilbao, Zaragoza and Valencia in mainland Spain before arriving in Palma de Mallorca.

The following summer (2 August 2027), the southern tip of mainland Spain is in the path of totality for an eclipse that will sweep across North Africa and the Arabian peninsula : going east from the Strait of Gibraltar, it will encompass Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, the northeasternmost corner of Sudan, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

Just under 12 months later, on 22 July 2028, Outback Australia will be the place to be. A total eclipse will make landfall in northern Western Australia, sweep across the Northern Territory and part of southwest Queensland – then clean across New South Wales, with Sydney in the middle of the path of totality.

Winter cloud cover could disrupt the experience in Australia’s largest city – and is very likely in the southern portion of New Zealand’s South Island where the eclipse reaches a finale.

Australia also features in the cosmological plans on 25 November 2030. This is early summer in the southern hemisphere, and likely to be good conditions for viewing in Namibia, Botswana and South Africa (Durban is on the path of totality) as well as South Australia.

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

Pride 2024: 12 most LGBTIQ+-friendly cities in the world

May 21, 2024 • 11 min read

An elite crop of cities – including Sydney – unfurl their Pride flags like nowhere else © Roni Bintang / Getty Images

Everybody say, “Love!”

We’re headed around the world in pursuit of exciting cities that embrace the LGBTIQ+ community with open arms (not to mention sequins and confetti). These are the kinds of places that understand that life is meant for celebrating – whether through rowdy drag shows that thrill with sass, joyous street parties that bring out crowds of thousands or thumping dance clubs that party on till sunrise.  

Follow us to some of the most progressive, inclusive and accepting destinations around the world. Places where you can truly show your spirit of pride.

1. London, United Kingdom

Pride 2024:  The biggest Pride celebration in the UK, and one of the largest in the world,  London Pride  takes place this year on June 29.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Soho  in London ’s West End  has historically been the city’s epicenter of queer life. To this day, it remains a hub of the city's LGBTIQ+ bars, shops and clubs.

London has been a most prominent center of queer culture for hundreds of years , dating all the way back to the city’s 18th-century “Molly Houses,” meeting places for LGBTIQ+ people. London remains a massively queer city and is known for a brimming underground scene that can be found at rotating parties, such as those put on by  Cybil’s House .

A must-visit for any LGBTIQ+ traveler is the  Admiral Duncan , a gay pub in Soho that was the site of a bombing perpetrated by a homophobic neo-Nazi in 1999. In the aftermath of the tragedy, it became a site of resistance and resilience – and remains so to this day.

Learn about London’s queer history on this walking tour

2. Provincetown, Massachusetts, USA

Pride 2025:   Provincetown’s 7th annual Pride  celebration takes place from May 31 to June 2, with a diverse lineup of events, from the town’s famous parade to a comedy showcase, 5k race, yoga sessions and more.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood: The entire town!  Provincetown is a flourishing place for queer life. Located at the easternmost tip of Cape Cod , P-town has been a summer escape for the LGBTIQ+ community for over 60 years. From riotous parties at  A-House  to (technically illegal) nude sunbathing at  Herring Cove Beach , there’s no shortage of fun to be had here. Plan your visit to align with one of the town’s many queer festivals, including Bear Week , Girl Splash , TransWeek and more.

14 ways to enjoy all Provincetown has to offer

3. Auckland, New Zealand

Pride 2024 : Being in the southern hemisphere, Auckland  held its  Pride celebration  in the month February. But it’s not too early to plan a trip for 2025! 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Karangahape Road – or “K Road” to locals – is where you'll find most of Auckland’s LGBTIQ+ nightlife. Many Aucklanders make a night of it by starting at  The Eagle , a local, unpretentious watering hole that welcomes all comers from the LGBTIQ+ community. Next is an inevitable stop at  Family Bar , located conveniently across the street, which has more of a club vibe, complete with bustling dance floor and weekly drag shows.

New Zealand has long been known as a friendly and welcoming country, with robust anti-discrimination laws and legalized same-sex marriage since 2013. Since then, the nation as a whole, and especially its major cities like Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch , have become known as some of the most LGBTIQ-friendly places anywhere in the world.

These are Auckland’s best neighborhoods

4. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Pride 2024:  Puerto Vallarta Pride  takes place from May 20–26  May, and is one of Mexico ’s biggest Pride celebrations, drawing a fun mix of locals and visitors. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Emiliano Zapata (also called Old Town) is where you’ll find the vast majority of Puerto Vallarta ’s queer nightlife. But the entire city is an LGBTIQ+ vacation magnet, so it’s virtually impossible to find any section of town that isn’t welcoming.

Throughout the years, Mexico has become more and more LGBTIQ-friendly, and the oceanfront resort town of Puerto Vallarta is one of the nation’s most progressive cities. All the big-brand resorts are LGBTIQ-inclusive, and there are even LGBTIQ-exclusive hotels, like the  Almar Resort . For socializing and meeting other members of the community , the options are endless. From the beachy, indoor/outdoor  Mr Flamingo , to the comic book–inspired  Blondies Loft + Slushbar  and the sleek and trendy  La Noche , there’s no shortage of places to find fun. And that’s not to mention all  the fantastic beaches , with Playa de los Muertos  known as PV’s “gay beach.”

Alluring day trips from Puerto Vallarta

5. Barcelona, Spain

Pride 2024: July 18–21.  Barcelona Pride ’s official 2024 lineup and event details are still to come.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  In the heart of Barcelona ,  L’Eixample  is one of the biggest LGBTIQ+ boroughs in all of Europe. (It’s even been lovingly given the nickname “Gaixample,”) Here, you’ll find LGBTIQ-owned beauty salons, bookshops, saunas, cafes, bars, restaurants, sex shops and everything in between.  

Spain has long been at the forefront of LGBTIQ+ rights. The nation legalized same-sex marriage back in 2005 and has since enacted numerous laws that ensure equality and protection for the queer community, including those who are nonbinary and trans.  Platja de la Mar Bella  is Barcelona’s premier gay beach – and it also happens to be clothing-optional, with most beachgoers baring it all. Among the numerous other LGBTIQ+ hotspots,  Arena Classic  is a popular lesbian bar that’s a staple to the local community, while Warhol-inspired club  Candy Darling  sees partygoers dance nightly until the early hours of morning, and sometimes until after the sun comes up. This is Spain, after all.

20 free things to do in Barcelona

6. New York City, New York, USA

Pride 2024:  One of the largest Pride celebrations on the planet,  NYC Pride  kicks into high gear toward the end of June, culminating in the annual Pride March on June 30, which draws up to 2 million revelers. If that’s not enough, kick off the month with Queens Pride  in Jackson Heights, a fabulous parade and street party that takes place in one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the world. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  No LGBTIQ+ visit to New York City would be complete without stop in the West Village . It’s here that the Stonewall uprising took place during the summer of 1969, after police raided the Stonewall Inn  and began arresting patrons and bartenders. When these LGBTIQ+ folks fought back, the modern gay rights movement was born.

New York has a deep history and profound connection to the LGBTIQ+ community – both painful (this was the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS crisis) and joyous ( Harlem  gifted the world ball culture). No queer traveler here can fail to feel it. 

These days, LGBTIQ+ folks tend to turn up in Hell’s Kitchen, on the west side of Manhattan, whose main drags of Ninth and Tenth Aves are packed with LGBTIQ-owned restaurants, barbershops, cafes and bars (denoted by frequent rainbow flags). Go-to HK nightlife spots include the wildly popular  Industry  bar; and the campy, country-themed  Flaming Saddles Saloon , where short-shorts-wearing bartenders frequently two-step on the bar.

Drag legend Lady Bunny has a few tips for savoring the West Village

7. Berlin, Germany

Pride 2024:  The culmination of  Berlin ’s month of Pride festivities (which kick off on June 28) is  Christopher Street Day  on July 27.  Germany ’s largest Pride celebration, the annual festival is named in honor of the Manhattan street where the historic Stonewall Inn is located.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  The heart of Berlin’s LGBTIQ+ scene is in Schöneberg , which has had gay and lesbian bars since the 1920s, making it one of the oldest gay boroughs on the planet.

Berlin has a fascinating LBGTIQ+ history. In the ’20s and ’30s, queer culture flourished in the city, before being almost completely eradicated by the Nazis during World War II. After the war, the community was forced to rbuild from the ground up, ultimately creating the buzzing and beautiful scene of today.   

Berlin is famous for being a city where people stay out clubbing until the sun rises at institutions like  GMF  or Berghain (good luck getting in). But Berlin has so much more than dance floors. Its  Gay Hostel  is a unique lodging opportunity that’s only available to LGBTIQ+ people under the age of 38, creating a safe space where you’re bound to meet some new friends. The city is also home to the  Schwules Museum , one of the only museums in the entire world dedicated to researching and preserving the history of LGBTIQ+ cultures around the world.

Berlin’s new era of club culture

8. Sydney, Australia 

Pride 2024: Taking advantage of southern-hemisphere summer, Sydney’s annual Pride extravaganza is the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras , which took place in February. Mark your calendars now: the next edition runs from February 14 to March 2, 2025. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  The heart of gay Sydney is  Darlinghurst , which is conveniently located near Sydney’s central business district and is easily accessible by the city’s mass-transit system.

Australia has long been a welcoming place for the queer community, with Sydney in particular earning a global reputation for its inclusivity. Not only does the city have excellent LGBTIQ+ nightlife – such as the expansive, three-story  Stonewall Hotel  – but it also has a rich cultural scene that celebrates LGBTIQ+ art and history. The Darlinghurst Bookshop  has been selling queer books, magazines and films since the ’80s, and the city hosts the yearly  Queer Screen  film festival.

Visit all of Sydney’s best beaches

9. Toronto, Canada

Pride 2024:   Toronto ’s  Pride celebration  consists of a parade, parties and a popular street fair from June 28–30, offering a more laid-back and kid-friendly Pride experience.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Queen St has been Toronto’s main LGBTIQ+ stretch for decades. (You might recognize it as the filming location of the US version of the groundbreaking drama  Queer as Folk .)

Canada  as a whole is known for being welcoming and is considered one of the friendliest places on the planet. Church St’s oldest LGBTIQ+ establishment, Woody’s  dates to 1989, and remains one a staple of Toronto’s queer culture. For something you can only find in Toronto, visit the  Buddies in Bad Times  theater, a queer performance space and cabaret that transforms into a nightclub on non-show nights.

Toronto’s 5 best independent shops

10. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Pride 2024: July 27–August 4.  Amsterdam Pride  is one of the world’s more unique celebrations, since its parade takes place on boats floating along the city’s famous canals.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood: While you’ll find LGBTIQ+ venues throughout this famously progressive city , much action is centered within the Reguliersdwarsstraat neighborhood , located in the center of town.

The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, in 2001 and, has remained one of the most LGBTIQ-inclusive countries on the planet thanks to its numerous anti-discrimination laws and policies that protect civil rights for the queer community.

First opened by flamboyant lesbian impresario Bet van Beeran in 1927,  Cafe ’t Mandje  remains a staple of the city’s queer scene, with its eclectic interior and friendly crowd. If late-night adventures are more your style, check out  EXIT Café , a thumping LGBTIQ+ bar that welcomes all comers and allies. Best of all, EXIT is open later than most bars in the city, making it perfect for night owls and those looking for an epic night on the town. First-time visitors should stop in at the  Pink Point , a dedicated LGBTIQ+ information booth that provides travelers with tips, recommendations and information on all things queer in the city.

All you need to know before heading to Amsterdam

11. Palm Springs, California, USA

Pride 2024:  Thanks to the city’s year-round warm weather,  Palm Springs Pride  takes place much later than most, this year from October 31 to November 3.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  All of Palm Springs is an LGBTIQ-centric neighborhood. In fact, Palm Springs has such a queer presence that even adjacent towns like Cathedral City and Palm Desert have drawn growing LGBTIQ+ populations, and have holding their own, discrete Pride celebrations .

During Hollywood’s heyday, actors, actresses, directors, producers and agents escaped to Palm Springs ro relax and let their hair down. Heavily represented among these visitors, the legend has it, was a heavy contingent of LBGTIQ+ artists, in search of privacy and discretion. This vibe still exists in this desert town to this day, with  numerous LGBTIQ+ resorts  dotting the town, many of them clothing-optional. For a bit of the city’s famed nightlife, be sure to check out longstanding staples like  Chill Bar  and  Hunters .

Top things to do in Palm Springs

12. Tel Aviv, Israel 

Pride 2024:   Tel Aviv Pride , taking place this year on Friday June 7, is a celebration beloved by Israelis and international visitors. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood: While sophisticated  Tel Aviv doesn’t have a specific “gayborhood,” the entire city is LGBTIQ-friendly. In fact, in 2016 the  Boston Globe  reported that a full quarter of the city’s population identifies as LGBTIQ+ – making it truly one of the gayest places on Earth.

While much of Israel remains socially traditional, with gay marriage not legally recognized in the country, Tel Aviv does things differently. Look no further than  Hilton Beach , a hub for the LGBTIQ+ community (you’ll see many deeply bronzed, Speedo-wearing boys on parade). One of the city’s most popular locales for queer people and their allies is  Shpagat , a club that draws a great mix of locals and tourists, ensuring that you’ll always be meeting someone new.

Fabulous rooftop bars in Tel Aviv

This article was first published Oct 8, 2019 and updated May 21, 2024.

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A potentially habitable Earth-size planet was discovered just 40 light-years away

A potentially habitable exoplanet that is roughly similar in size to Earth has been found in a system located 40 light-years away, according to a new study.

The planet is about the size of Venus, so slightly smaller than Earth, and may be temperate enough to support life, the researchers said.

Dubbed Gliese 12 b, the planet takes 12.8 days to orbit a star that is 27% of the sun’s size. It’s not yet known whether the exoplanet has an atmosphere.

But the scientists behind the study, published Thursday in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society , estimated that Gliese 12 b has a surface temperature of about 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius). While hot, that temperature is lower than most of the thousands of exoplanets discovered to date.

“Gliese 12 b could be at the right temperature for liquid water to pool on its surface, and that’s important because we tend to think liquid water is an essential ingredient for life as we know it,” Shishir Dholakia, one of the study’s authors and a doctoral student at the University of Southern Queensland’s Centre for Astrophysics, said in a statement .

The researchers are keen to get a closer look at the exoplanet, including with NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope , which launched into space in 2021 and is equipped with a sophisticated suite of instruments capable of studying exoplanet atmospheres .

The scientists want to determine if the planet has an atmosphere similar to that on Earth, or whether its atmosphere is as extreme and hostile as that on Venus. Alternately, Gliese 12 b could have no atmosphere at all, or one that is unfamiliar and not seen in our own solar system, they said.

The findings could help researchers better understand the factors that make exoplanets potentially habitable. The observations may also shed light on how our own solar system evolved.

“Because Gliese 12 b is between Earth and Venus in temperature, its atmosphere could teach us a lot about the habitability pathways planets take as they develop,” study co-author Larissa Palethorpe, a doctoral student at the University of Edinburgh and University College London, said in a statement .

Gliese 12 b was discovered using data from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite , which is designed to stare at a huge patch of the sky for about a month at a time. The space telescope, which launched into space in 2018, looks for periodic changes in brightness of tens of thousands of stars.

If a star dims at regular intervals, it may be a sign that a planet is orbiting the star, passing in front of it and temporarily obscuring its light.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

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A rip current statement in effect for coastal broward and coastal miami dade regions, dozens of bullets ‘flying’ scare residents of ‘very nice’ miami gardens neighborhood, detectives investigate memorial day weekend shooting.

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MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Carolina Hunter said she worried about the safety of her grandchildren in Miami Gardens. Detectives were investigating a Memorial Day weekend shooting steps away from her home.

Hunter said her neighborhood is “very nice and pleasant,” but a shooting on Saturday evening in the area of Northwest 202 Terrace and 33 Avenue filled it with fear.

“It was a little scary,” Hunter said. “We are concerned.”

Residents said dozens of bullets were “flying.” There were holes all over the white walls and glass of the house that was the target. There were holes in a parked black Honda with a disabled parking permit.

No one was injured. Detectives asked anyone with information about this or other cases to call Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.

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About the Authors

Terrell forney.

Terrell Forney joined Local 10 News in October 2005 as a general assignment reporter. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but a desire to escape the harsh winters of the north brought him to South Florida.

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The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.

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