Nice, France-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Old Town

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
    • Take the tram or bus (Line 98) from the airport to the city center (~30 minutes, ~5 euros)
    • Check-in at your hotel: Hotel Beau Rivage Nice (or similar)
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate (a beautiful baroque church)
    • Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, exploring local shops and cafes
    • Grab a snack or lunch at Boulangerie Patisserie (delicious pastries and sandwiches) or Le Comptoir (casual bistro fare)
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at La Merenda (regional cuisine with a focus on local ingredients)
    • Take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, admiring the sea views

Day 2: Beaches and Harbor

  • Morning
    • Head to the famous Promenade des Anglais, starting from the Old Town
    • Visit the Place Masséna, a lively spot with street performers and food vendors
    • Relax on the beach at La Croisette or Plage du Centenaire (free admission)
  • Afternoon
    • Take a harbor tour to admire the luxury yachts (~1 hour, ~15 euros)
    • Visit the Chagall Museum, dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall
    • Snack at Le Pochette (fresh seafood and sandwiches)
  • Evening

Day 3: Hilltop Village and Market

  • Morning
    • Take the bus or drive to the medieval hilltop village of Saint-Pierre-de-Toulon (~30 minutes, ~10 euros)
    • Explore the narrow streets and historic buildings
    • Visit the Place des Républicains, a lively spot with local markets and cafes
  • Afternoon
    • Return to Nice and visit the bustling Cours Saleya Market (everyday from 6 am to 1 pm, ~5 euros for a small bag of fruits or veggies)
    • Snack at Le Cigale et la Fleur (delicious sandwiches and salads)
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at La Merenda (regional cuisine with a focus on local ingredients)

Day 4: Chagall Museum and last-minute shopping

  • Morning
    • Visit the Chagall Museum, dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall
    • Explore the nearby Musée Matisse, featuring works by Henri Matisse
    • Snack at Le Pochette (fresh seafood and sandwiches)
  • Afternoon
    • Do some last-minute shopping on the Promenade des Anglais or in the Old Town
    • Visit the famous Papillon store for high-end jewelry and accessories

Other tips and information:

  • Nice has a mild climate, but it can get hot during summer months. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • The city is relatively safe, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Try to learn some basic French phrases to interact with the locals.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the delicious local cuisine, such as Niçoise salad or Tartar d’Espagnole!
  • If you’re visiting during peak season (June-August), be prepared for crowds and long lines.

Getting around:

  • Nice has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams.
  • You can buy a carnet of 10 tickets (~1.50 euros each) or a day pass (~5.50 euros).
  • Taxi services are also available, but can be more expensive.

Accommodation:

Food and drink:

  • Try the local specialties like Tartar d’Espagnole, a delicious fish soup.
  • Don’t miss the famous Niçoise salad, made with tuna, eggs, capers, and olives.
  • Be sure to try some of the fresh seafood at Le Pochette.
  • Enjoy a coffee or snack at one of the many cafes in the Old Town.

Activities:

  • Visit the Chagall Museum, dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall.
  • Explore the historic buildings and narrow streets of the Old Town.
  • Take a harbor tour to admire the luxury yachts.
  • Relax on the beach at La Croisette or Plage du Centenaire.

I hope you enjoy your time in Nice, France!