Nice Travel Guide 2026 — Best Things to Do: Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, Castle Hill, Cours Saleya & Day Trips

Nice is one of the most elegant destinations on the French Riviera, where Mediterranean light, Italian influences, and French culture come together naturally. Founded by the Greeks over 2,000 years ago, the city later became a favorite winter retreat for European aristocracy, shaping its grand boulevards and refined atmosphere. Today, Nice balances its historic soul with a relaxed seaside lifestyle, making it appealing to both culture lovers and leisure travelers.

The city’s location between the sea and the hills gives it a unique rhythm. Pebble beaches stretch along turquoise waters, while narrow streets climb upward into colorful old neighborhoods. Markets overflow with local produce, artists draw inspiration from the region’s light, and scenic viewpoints reveal sweeping coastal panoramas. Nice also serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby villages and glamorous destinations along the Côte d’Azur.

This guide highlights Nice’s most popular attractions and experiences, organized to help visitors move smoothly through the city while enjoying its varied character. From seaside promenades to historic quarters and memorable day trips, these experiences capture the essence of Nice.

Top Attractions & Experiences

Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is Nice’s most iconic landmark, stretching along the Baie des Anges with uninterrupted sea views. Originally developed in the 19th century for wealthy winter visitors, the promenade is now the city’s social spine. Palm trees, historic hotels, and open views make it ideal for both leisurely strolls and active exploration.

Walk or cycle along the seafront

Relax on nearby pebble beaches

Watch sunrise or sunset over the Mediterranean

Enjoy views of the coastline and hotels

How to get there: Runs along the waterfront, easily accessible on foot from central Nice.

How much time to spend: 1–2 hours, longer if combined with beach time.

Address: Promenade des Anglais, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Early mornings are peaceful and ideal for photos.

Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Vieux Nice is a maze of narrow streets, colorful facades, and lively squares that reveal the city’s Italian heritage. Laundry hangs from windows, cafés spill onto small plazas, and baroque churches appear unexpectedly around corners. This is where Nice feels most alive and authentic.

Wander narrow historic streets

Visit small churches and chapels

Explore local shops and cafés

Enjoy evening dining atmosphere

How to get there: Walk from Place Masséna or the seafront.

How much time to spend: 2–3 hours.

Address: Vieux Nice, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Evenings are lively, but mornings are quieter for exploration.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Castle Hill offers the best panoramic views in Nice, overlooking the Old Town, harbor, and sweeping coastline. Although no castle remains, the elevated park provides shaded paths, viewpoints, and a peaceful escape above the city.

Enjoy panoramic city and sea views

Walk shaded park paths

Photograph the Old Town from above

Relax away from city crowds

How to get there: Walk uphill, take the elevator, or access from the port side.

How much time to spend: 1–1.5 hours.

Address: Colline du Château, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Late afternoon light is ideal for photography.

Cours Saleya Market

Cours Saleya is Nice’s most famous market, located at the edge of the Old Town. Known for flowers, fresh produce, and local specialties, it reflects the flavors and colors of Provence. The market transforms throughout the week, offering different experiences depending on the day.

Browse flower and produce stalls

Sample local specialties

Enjoy café terraces nearby

Experience daily local life

How to get there: Located in Old Town, easily reached on foot.

How much time to spend: 45–90 minutes.

Address: Cours Saleya, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Visit in the morning for the fullest market atmosphere.

Place Masséna

Place Masséna is Nice’s central square, linking the modern city with the Old Town. Its distinctive red buildings, black-and-white paving, and contemporary art installations make it a visual landmark and common meeting point.

Admire the architecture and statues

Relax near fountains and open spaces

Use as a starting point for exploration

How to get there: Central location with tram access.

How much time to spend: 30–45 minutes.

Address: Place Masséna, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Especially atmospheric in the evening when lights come on.

Matisse Museum

The Matisse Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Henri Matisse, who spent many years in Nice. Located in a peaceful residential area, the museum offers insight into the artist’s evolution and his connection to the region.

View paintings, sketches, and sculptures

Learn about Matisse’s life in Nice

Enjoy the quiet surrounding neighborhood

How to get there: Bus or tram to Cimiez area.

How much time to spend: 1–1.5 hours.

Address: 164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Combine with a walk through Cimiez gardens.

Day Trips to Èze and Monaco

Nice is an ideal base for exploring nearby Riviera highlights. Èze offers a medieval hilltop village with dramatic views, while Monaco showcases glamour, architecture, and coastal scenery. Both are easily reachable and provide a change of pace from city life.

Explore the hilltop village of Èze

Enjoy coastal views along the journey

Visit Monaco’s harbor and old town

How to get there: Train or bus from Nice.

How much time to spend: Full day.

Address: Day trips from Nice – Google map

Notes: Start early to maximize the day.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Cimiez Neighborhood

The Cimiez neighborhood offers a quieter, more residential side of Nice, known for its gardens, historic villas, and Roman ruins. It feels far removed from the busy seafront and rewards visitors looking for a slower pace.

Walk through olive groves and gardens

Visit Roman ruins and museums

Enjoy peaceful residential streets

How to get there: Bus or tram with short walk.

How much time to spend: 2–3 hours.

Address: Cimiez, Nice, France – Google map

Notes: Ideal for travelers seeking calm and culture.

Photography Hotspots

Castle Hill viewpoints
Promenade des Anglais at sunrise
Old Town streets and balconies
Cours Saleya market stalls
View over Nice harbor

Pro Tips & Local Secrets

Wear comfortable shoes for pebble beaches and hills
Visit Old Town early to avoid crowds
Use public transport for day trips along the coast
Plan viewpoints around golden hour

Nice continues to attract travelers seeking a blend of culture, seaside relaxation, and Riviera elegance. With walkable neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and easy access to nearby destinations, it offers a rewarding experience for both first-time visitors and returning travelers looking to explore deeper.