Nice

August 7, 2024

Welcome to Nice: A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling in the French Riviera

By Air: The Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is located about 4 miles southwest of the city center.
- Flights from major European cities, as well as some international destinations, are available.
- A taxi or bus ride to the city center takes around 10-15 minutes.
By Train: Nice has a main train station (Gare de Nice) with regular connections to Paris and other French cities.
- High-speed trains (TGV) make the trip from Paris in under 3 hours.
By Car: Nice is accessible via the A8 highway from the north or the Côte d’Azur coastline.
- Parking options are limited, especially during peak season.

Luxury:
- La Réserve de Beaulieu & Spa: A 5-star hotel with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
- Hotel Le Negresco: A luxurious hotel on the Promenade des Anglais, with elegant rooms and a world-class spa.
Mid-range:
- Hotel Beau Rivage: A 4-star hotel in the heart of Nice, with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
- Hotel Suisse Majestic: A charming 3-star hotel on the Promenade des Anglais, with cozy rooms and a beautiful garden.
Budget:
- Hostel Nice Old Town: A social hostel in the historic center of Nice, with dorms and private rooms available.
- Appart’City Nice Centre: A budget-friendly aparthotel with self-catering studios and apartments.

Promenade des Anglais: A scenic promenade along the Baie des Anges, perfect for walking or cycling.
Chagall Museum: A museum showcasing the artwork of Marc Chagall, featuring over 200 works on display.
Cours Saleya Market: A bustling market selling fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.
Castle Hill (Colline du Château): A hill with stunning views of the city and the Baie des Anges.
Matisse Museum: A museum dedicated to the artwork of Henri Matisse, featuring a collection of paintings, sculptures, and prints.

Sunset Cruise: Take a romantic cruise around the bay, watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Hiking in the nearby hills: Explore the scenic trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit the famous beaches: Relax on one of Nice’s many beaches, such as the popular Promenade des Anglais or the quieter Plage du Centenaire.
Wine tasting: Visit a local vineyard or wine shop to taste some of the region’s renowned wines.
Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Provençal dishes and sample local specialties.

Restaurants:
- Le Relais de la Place: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern French cuisine.
- La Merenda: A cozy bistro offering traditional Niçoise dishes and a wide selection of wines.
Cafes:
- Café de la Paix: A historic cafe on the Promenade des Anglais, serving coffee, pastries, and light meals.
- Le Café des Arts: An art nouveau-style cafe with a beautiful interior and outdoor seating area.
Markets:
- Cours Saleya Market: A bustling market selling fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.
- La Bourse aux Fleurs: A market offering a wide range of flowers, plants, and gardening supplies.

Public Transport:
- Nice has an efficient public transport system, including buses and trams.
- The city also offers a tourist-friendly hop-on hop-off bus service.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the city.
Car Rental: Several car rental companies have offices at the airport or in the city center.

Weather: Nice has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Be prepared for sudden rain showers during the spring and autumn months.
Language: French is the official language of France, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Currency: The Euro is the official currency of France.
Tipping: Tipping in restaurants and bars is generally 10-15% of the total bill.
Opening Hours:
- Most shops and attractions are open from 9 am to 7 pm, Monday to Saturday.
- Some museums and galleries may have extended hours or be closed on Mondays.

Avoid touristy areas during peak season: Try to avoid the Promenade des Anglais and other popular areas during the peak summer months when possible.
Be prepared for crowds: Nice is a popular destination, so be prepared for crowds and long wait times at attractions and restaurants.
Respect local customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially in historic areas or churches.
Stay hydrated: The sun can be strong on the French Riviera, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Take your time: Don’t rush through your visit – take your time to enjoy the beautiful scenery and soak up the atmosphere.