Nice-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nice

  • Morning: Arrive at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) and take the Tramway (line 1 or 2) from the airport to the city center. Get off at the “Promenade des Anglais” stop.
  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a 7-kilometer long beachside promenade that stretches along the Baie des Anges. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Le Relais (Boulangerie-Patisserie) for some delicious French pastries and sandwiches.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Chagall Museum (Musée Matisse), dedicated to the life and work of Russian-French artist Marc Chagall. The museum is located in a beautiful 17th-century villa with stunning gardens.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Bistrot d’Henri, a cozy bistro serving traditional Provençal cuisine.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Negresco (5-star): A luxurious hotel located on the Promenade des Anglais, offering breathtaking views of the Baie des Anges.
  • Hotel Westminster (4-star): A charming hotel located in the heart of Nice, with comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Old Nice

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Cours Saleya Market, a bustling marketplace selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. Be sure to try some local specialties like socca (a thin pancake) or farinata (a chickpea flatbread).
  • 10:30 AM: Explore the narrow streets of Old Nice, including the Cours de la République and the Place Masséna.
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at La Merenda, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Niçois cuisine.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, a beautiful Baroque cathedral built in the 17th century.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir du Relais, a modern French bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Things to Know:

  • Language: While many locals speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic French phrases like “bonjour” (hello) and “merci” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency in France.
  • Weather: Nice has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly.

Day 3: Visit Villefranche-sur-Mer

  • 9:00 AM: Take the train from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming fishing village located on the Bay of Villefranche.
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the narrow streets and shops of Villefranche, including the Place Pierre-Gautier-de-La-Tour d’Auvergne.
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at La Terrasse, a restaurant with stunning views of the bay.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Château Saint-Georges, a 13th-century castle that now serves as a museum.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Vieux Port, a cozy restaurant located in a historic building.

Day 4: Day Trip to Monaco

  • 9:00 AM: Take the train from Nice to Monaco, a sovereign city-state located on the French Riviera.
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the Casino de Monte-Carlo, a luxurious casino that’s been in operation since 1863.
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Le Café de Paris, a restaurant with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Palais du Prince, a grand palace built in the 19th century and now serves as the official residence of the Prince of Monaco.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Grill, a modern French bistro located in the heart of Monte-Carlo.

Day 5: Last Day in Nice

  • 9:00 AM: Spend your last morning in Nice exploring one of its many beautiful parks, including the Parc de la Colline du Château, which offers stunning views of the city.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMAC), a modern art museum featuring works by local and international artists.
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Le Grand Cercle, a cozy restaurant located in a beautiful garden setting.
  • 2:00 PM: Spend your last few hours shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city’s many markets.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Le Chantecler, a Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning views of the Baie des Anges.

Tips and Tricks:

  • Get a Nice Côte d’Azur Pass for free access to public transportation, museums, and other attractions.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or mosques.
  • Be prepared for crowds during peak tourist season (June-August).
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen – the sun can be strong on the French Riviera!