Nice had been on my travel radar for years, but I never quite found the right opportunity to visit. That changed recently when I finally spent three days in Nice during my first trip to the French Riviera. I also took advantage of the direct flights from Sardinia, which made getting there surprisingly easy.
Part of what made this visit special is that my cousin has been living in Nice for more than 20 years with his wife and children. While I explored many of the city’s main attractions as a first-time visitor, I also had the chance to see parts of Nice through the eyes of someone who calls it home.
Over three days, I wandered through the colorful streets of Vieux Nice, walked the length of the Promenade des Anglais, climbed Castle Hill for its spectacular views, sampled plenty of rosé wine, and explored some of the most beautiful towns along the French Riviera, including Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Menton.
If you’re wondering, “Is Nice worth visiting?”, let me tell you that it quickly became one of my favorite cities in France. This guide shares my honest impressions, what I enjoyed most, what surprised me, and exactly how I spent 3 days in Nice.
Quick Answer: Is Nice Worth Visiting?
Yes, I think Nice is worth visiting. After spending three days there, I found it strikes a good balance between culture, history, seaside scenery, and easy access to some of the most beautiful places on the French Riviera.
Nice has plenty to offer: a picturesque old town, lively markets, elegant architecture, a long waterfront promenade, and excellent food. I also found it surprisingly easy to explore on foot, while the city’s train connections make visiting nearby destinations such as Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Menton incredibly straightforward.
What I liked most about Nice was its atmosphere. It feels distinctly Mediterranean, with a strong Italian influence visible in the architecture, cuisine, and overall character of the city, and coming from a seaside city like Cagliari, this meant bonus points for me.
In fact, one of the reasons my cousin and his wife decided to move there 20 years ago was exactly this: a gorgeous city that would allow them to keep a lifestyle similar to the one they had in Italy.
Sitting with a glass of rosé after a day of sightseeing, strolling along the Promenade des Anglais at sunset, or getting lost in the narrow streets of Vieux Nice were some of my favorite things to do in Nice.
That said, Nice isn’t perfect. The beaches are pebbly rather than sandy, accommodation can be expensive, and the city can get crowded during the summer months.
I visited at the end of May and was lucky to enjoy warm, sunny weather that was perfect for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and spending time by the sea. Having family in Nice also gave me a different perspective on the city. Through my cousin, I was able to see not only the main attractions but also get a feel for what everyday life in Nice is like beyond the tourist hotspots.
Overall, I found Nice to be an excellent destination for a long weekend and a convenient base for exploring the French Riviera. It’s a city I would happily visit again.
Why Visit Nice?
There are many reasons to visit Nice, whether you’re planning a city break, a longer vacation on the French Riviera, or simply looking for a convenient base from which to explore the region.
One of the things that struck me immediately was the architecture. Walking around Nice, you’ll find elegant Belle Époque buildings, colorful facades in Vieux Nice (the Old Town), grand squares such as Place Masséna, and beautiful churches, including Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate.
The city has a distinct Mediterranean character that feels different from many other destinations in France.
I also loved how easy Nice is to explore on foot. Most of the main attractions are located within walking distance of one another, and I rarely felt the need to use public transportation. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of the old town, walking along the Promenade des Anglais, or heading up to Castle Hill, getting around is straightforward.
Food and wine are another highlight. Nice has a strong culinary identity, influenced by both French and Italian traditions. Even if, like me, you only spend a few days in the city, you’ll quickly discover that long lunches, outdoor dining, and a glass of chilled rosé are very much part of the local lifestyle.
Then there is the atmosphere. Nice feels unmistakably Mediterranean. Palm-lined boulevards, outdoor cafés, bustling markets, and the sparkling waters of the Baie des Anges create a relaxed yet lively environment that is easy to enjoy.
Finally, Nice is one of the best bases for exploring the French Riviera. Excellent train connections make it easy to visit nearby destinations such as Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton. I didn’t get to go, but my cousin who lives there told me that Cannes, Antibes, and even Monaco can be reached by public transport, so you don’t even need to rent a car.
How Many Days Do You Need In Nice?
I think three days is a good amount of time for a first visit to Nice. That’s how long I spent there, and it gave me enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, enjoy its food scene, relax by the sea, and take a day trip to the most beautiful destinations on the French Riviera.
In three days, I was able to wander through Vieux Nice, visit the city’s main squares and landmarks, walk along the Promenade des Anglais, climb Castle Hill for its spectacular views, spend some time at the beach, and explore Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Menton.
That said, I could easily have stayed longer. Nice has a relaxed pace that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere rather than rush from one attraction to another.
An extra day or two would have allowed me to explore the many museums (the weather was so nice when I visited that it’d have been a pity to stay indoors), visit additional towns along the French Riviera, and enjoy the city at an even more leisurely pace.
If you’re short on time, two full days are enough to see the main highlights of Nice itself. If you want to combine the city with day trips to nearby destinations, I recommend spending at least three days. Four or five days would be even better if you prefer a slower pace of travel.
My 3-Day Nice Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Nice
I dedicated my first day in Nice to exploring the city center, wandering between elegant squares, colorful streets, historic churches, and the famous waterfront. Since my cousin has lived in Nice for more than 20 years, I also benefited from plenty of local recommendations and stories that helped me appreciate the city beyond its most famous attractions.
Place Garibaldi
I started my day at Place Garibaldi, one of the most beautiful squares in Nice. Surrounded by elegant ochre-colored buildings and lined with cafés, it is a pleasant place to sit for a coffee and soak in the atmosphere.
The square is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of Italian unification. Many visitors are surprised to learn that Garibaldi was actually born in Nice in 1807. In 1814, Nice became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia, ruled by the House of Savoy, and only became part of France in 1860.
His statue still dominates the center of the square, reminding visitors of the city’s fascinating Italian heritage.
What I liked most about Place Garibaldi was that it felt more local than many of the nearby tourist hotspots. During my visit, residents were meeting friends for coffee, shopping, and going about their daily routines, giving the square a lived-in feel. Not to mention the fact that almost every city in Italy has a Via Garibaldi or a Piazza Garibaldi (or both), so it made me feel at home.
Vieux Nice (Old Town)
From Place Garibaldi, I wandered into Vieux Nice, the historic heart of the city and one of my favorite areas overall.
The old town immediately reminded me of a bazaar. Narrow cobbled alleys wind between colorful buildings, with countless boutiques, artisan workshops, bakeries, specialty food stores, cafés, and souvenir shops spilling out onto the streets. There is always something happening, and every corner seems to reveal another small shop worth exploring.
I had absolutely no intention of shopping, yet somehow I still ended up leaving with a few purchases. It’s simply one of those places where browsing becomes irresistible.
As someone who grew up in Sardinia and spends a lot of time traveling around Italy, I was also struck by how Italian parts of Nice felt. The architecture, the atmosphere, and even some of the food felt familiar, which isn’t surprising given the city’s history and its long ties to Italy.
If you’d like to learn more about the history of the city, I recommend this guided walking tour of Vieux Nice and Castle Hill. Led by a local guide, it covers the most important landmarks in the old town before continuing up to Castle Hill for some of the best views in Nice.
Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
Located right in the heart of the old town, Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is one of Nice’s most important churches.
Its Baroque façade blends almost seamlessly into the surrounding buildings, to the point that you may almost miss it while wandering through the narrow streets. Step inside, however, and you’ll discover an ornate interior filled with beautiful chapels, decorative details, and a magnificent dome.
Even if you’re not particularly interested in religious sites, I recommend taking a quick look. After the busy streets outside, the cathedral feels surprisingly peaceful.
Place Masséna
A short walk from the old town brings you to Place Masséna, Nice’s main square and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
The square acts as a connection point between Vieux Nice, the modern city center, and the Promenade des Anglais. Its distinctive black-and-white paving, elegant red buildings, and contemporary sculptures create a striking setting that is hard to miss.
One of the highlights here is the Fontaine du Soleil, dominated by a large statue of Apollo surrounded by five bronze figures representing planets from Roman mythology. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Nice and a popular meeting point for both locals and visitors.
On the southern side of the square, you’ll find the Promenade du Paillon, a large urban park that stretches through the city center. During my visit, I was surprised by how many local families were spending time there. The park has lawns, fountains, shaded areas, and one of the largest playgrounds in the city.
In fact, my cousin and I met his wife and their children here after exploring the city, as the youngest one loves to play there. This really isn’t a tourist attraction, but rather an integral part of everyday life in Nice.
More than anywhere else in the city center, Place Masséna felt like the heart of Nice, where residents and visitors naturally cross paths throughout the day.
Promenade des Anglais
From Place Masséna, I continued towards the Promenade des Anglais, arguably the most famous landmark in Nice.
Stretching for roughly 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) along the waterfront, the promenade follows the curve of the Baie des Anges and offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean. It takes its name from the wealthy British visitors who helped transform Nice into a fashionable winter destination during the 19th century.
What surprised me most was how heavily locals use it. Throughout the day, I saw runners, cyclists, families, rollerbladers, and people simply sitting on the chairs facing the sea. I did the same for a short while, just to relax (it was a fairly hot day when I visited).
I found myself returning here several times during my stay. The atmosphere changes throughout the day, but I particularly enjoyed the late afternoon, when the sunlight softens and the waterfront becomes even more pleasant, and in the evening, when all the beach clubs along the beach become lively meeting places perfect for getting a drink.
Hotel Negresco
One of the most recognizable buildings along the promenade is Hotel Negresco, a luxury hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1913.
Even if you don’t stay there, it’s worth stopping to admire its famous pink dome and elegant Belle Époque façade. Over the years, the hotel has hosted royalty, politicians, artists, and celebrities from around the world.
My cousin, who works in the hospitality industry, made it a point to stop there as he actually worked at Hotel Negresco when he first moved to Nice more than two decades ago. His wife, a talented seamstress, used to make and repair the traditional uniforms that the doormen and staff still wear today.
Knowing that little piece of family history made the hotel even more interesting than it might otherwise have been.
Sip Rosé Wine or Go Wine Tasting
One thing I noticed very quickly in Nice is that rosé wine is everywhere.
By around 6:00 pm, locals in Nice stop for “apéro”. In France, an apéro (short for apéritif) is a cherished pre-dinner tradition. People typically spend an hour or so relaxing with a drink and small snacks while catching up with friends or family before dinner.
At about that time, terraces in town begin to fill with locals and visitors enjoying a drink before dinner, and more often than not, that drink is rosé wine. Coming from Sardinia, where wine also plays an important role in everyday life, I immediately appreciated this slower pace and the social ritual that surrounds it.
Of course, my cousin and I obliged and sat down at a table with a glass of chilled rosé, relaxing as we just observed life passing by.
If you’d like to learn more about the wines of the region, you could consider this wine-tasting tour in the countryside around Nice. The experience combines scenic drives through the backcountry in a Defender with visits to local wineries and tastings of regional wines.
Another option is this food and wine tour of Old Nice, which combines local specialties, wine tastings, and cultural insights while exploring some of the city’s most atmospheric streets with a knowledgeable local guide.
Evening in Nice
After our drinks, my cousin suggested we go back to Vieux Nice, which becomes even livelier after dark.
Restaurants set up tables outdoors, bars fill with people, and the narrow streets remain busy well into the evening. Despite being one of the most visited destinations on the French Riviera, I found the atmosphere surprisingly relaxed during my late-May visit.
We spent the rest of the evening doing exactly what many locals seemed to be doing: wandering through the old town, stopping for a drink, and enjoying the atmosphere without any real destination in mind.
Day 2: Markets, Views And Beaches
My second day in Nice was even more relaxed. Instead of focusing on landmarks in the city center, I spent the day with my cousin and his family, exploring some of the places locals enjoy most, from the famous market at Cours Saleya to Castle Hill, the harbor, and the beach.
Cours Saleya Market
My cousin’s wife made it a point that Cours Saleya Market should be our first stop for the day, and she was so right. This is one of the most famous markets in Nice and a place that immediately feels full of life.
Located on the edge of Vieux Nice, the market is known for its colorful displays of flowers, fresh produce, local specialties, and artisanal products. Depending on the day, you’ll also find antiques and crafts, but during my visit the stalls were packed with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and regional food products.
It was already quite hot when we arrived, so we ended up doing exactly what many locals seemed to be doing: stopping to buy fresh fruit and a freshly squeezed juice before continuing our walk around the city. It was a simple but very enjoyable way to start the day.
Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, Cours Saleya is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone. The mix of locals doing their shopping and visitors wandering between the stalls makes it one of the liveliest places in Nice.
Castle Hill
From the market, we made our way up to Castle Hill, one of the most popular viewpoints in Nice.
Despite its name, there is no castle standing here today – just some ruins of it. The original fortress was destroyed centuries ago, but the hill remains one of the best places to appreciate the city’s geography. From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, the Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice, and the harbor.
My cousin and his family still come here regularly, despite having lived in Nice for more than twenty years. After seeing the views for myself, I could understand why. It’s one of those places that locals continue to enjoy long after the novelty of living in the city has worn off.
Besides the viewpoints, Castle Hill has shaded walking paths, gardens, playgrounds, and an artificial waterfall that cascades dramatically down the cliffside. Originally created in the late 19th century, the waterfall is visible from several parts of the city and adds to the area’s charm. Standing near it on a hot day was a welcome break from the heat.
If you’re visiting Nice for the first time, I think Castle Hill is an absolute must. Between the views, the green spaces, and the relaxed atmosphere, it’s easy to understand why both visitors and locals keep coming back.
Nice Harbor
After descending from Castle Hill, we headed towards Nice Harbor.
Compared to some of the glitzier marinas along the French Riviera, I found the harbor surprisingly approachable. Yes, there are plenty of impressive yachts moored here, but there are also fishing boats, ferries, waterfront cafés, and local businesses that give the area a more authentic feel.
The colorful buildings surrounding the harbor make it one of the most photogenic parts of Nice, and it’s a pleasant place to wander for an hour or so while watching boats come and go.
The harbor is also where many boat excursions depart, as well as ferries to Corsica.
Beach Time
No late spring trip to Nice would feel complete without spending at least a few hours by the sea.
Rather than heading to one of the busiest sections of beach along the Promenade des Anglais, I followed my cousin and his family to a couple of their preferred local spots. One of the advantages of visiting friends or relatives who live in a destination is that they tend to know exactly where to go.
During my stay, we spent time around the beaches east of the city center, including the area near Coco Beach and the small coves around Cap de Nice. These spots felt noticeably more local than the main stretches of beach along the Promenade des Anglais and offered beautiful views of the coastline.
Like most beaches in Nice, these were pebbly rather than sandy, something that can take a bit of getting used to if you’re more accustomed to sandy beaches (while there are mostly sandy beaches in Sardinia, some of my favorite ones on the island are pebbly so I am quite used to it).
The water, however, was exceptionally clear, and I was surprised by how relaxed the atmosphere felt.
One thing that caught my attention was the number of local swimming clubs training in the sea. We saw groups of swimmers heading out from the shore, many wearing wetsuits. As a swimmer myself, I always enjoy seeing local swim culture when I travel, and it was clear that open-water swimming is very popular in Nice.
I visited at the end of May and, while the Mediterranean wasn’t particularly warm by my standards, it was definitely pleasant enough for a quick swim. Judging by the number of people already in the water, many locals seemed to agree.
Good to know: If you’re looking for a classic city beach experience, the long stretches of beach along the Promenade des Anglais are the most convenient option. However, if you don’t mind walking a little farther, the coves around Cap de Nice offer a more intimate setting and are popular with locals.
Expert tip: Nice’s beaches are covered with pebbles rather than sand. Walking barefoot on the larger stones can be uncomfortable, especially when entering and exiting the sea. A pair of water shoes or beach shoes will make your beach experience considerably more enjoyable.
Drinks and Dancing at Waka Bar
After dinner at my cousin’s place with his family, I ended my second day at Waka Bar, one of my cousin’s favorite places along the Promenade des Anglais.
The bar has a lively but unpretentious atmosphere. During my visit, music was playing, people were dancing, and groups of friends gathered for drinks overlooking the sea. Before hitting the dancefloor, we grabbed our drinks and went to sit on the terrace overlooking the Promenade.
What I liked most about Waka Bar was that it didn’t feel exclusively geared towards tourists (my cousin is a local after all). There was a genuine local crowd, which made for a more authentic evening than some of the more polished venues elsewhere along the waterfront.
It was a fun way to end the day and experience a different side of Nice after spending the afternoon at the beach.
Day 3: French Riviera Day Trip
On my third day, I left Nice behind to explore some of the most beautiful destinations on the French Riviera. My cousin drove me to Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Menton, making it easy to visit all three places in a single day.
If you don’t have access to a car, you can still visit these destinations using public transportation. There are trains that connect Nice with Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton, while buses run between Nice and Èze Village. With an early start and careful planning, you can comfortably see all three places in one day, though it will make for a fairly busy itinerary.
Another excellent option is to join a guided tour from Nice.
This Riviera tour from Nice to Menton combines several of the region’s most beautiful towns, and gives you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery without worrying about transportation or parking.
If you’re short on time, this full-day French Riviera tour covers many of the area’s highlights, including picturesque villages, spectacular viewpoints, and some of the most famous destinations along the coast.
Alternatively, this best of the Riviera tour is a classic choice that combines coastal towns, hilltop villages, and panoramic views while providing plenty of insight into the region’s history and culture.
One thing I quickly learned is that these destinations are popular for a reason. Even during my late-May visit, they were already quite busy, especially on the weekend.
Èze
Perched high above the Mediterranean, Èze is probably the most famous hilltop village on the French Riviera.
Its narrow stone streets, historic buildings, and spectacular sea views make it incredibly photogenic. Walking through the village feels a little like stepping back in time, although you’ll also find plenty of boutiques (I know I bought a thing or two there), art galleries, and cafés.
The highlight for many visitors is the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Èze), located at the highest point of the village. The panoramic views from here are among the best on the French Riviera.
However, if you plan to visit, I strongly recommend buying your garden tickets in advance. During my visit, there was a long line at the ticket office, and pre-booking would have saved us a considerable amount of time.
Èze was also the busiest place I visited that day. The narrow streets can become extremely crowded, particularly during weekends and throughout the summer months.
Expert tip: If you plan on stopping here for lunch, it’s best that you do a bit of research and book a restaurant in advance. We had not – our decision to go was a last-minute one – and had to go elsewhere as we could not find any place that had a table.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
After Èze, we headed to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a picturesque seaside town located just a few minutes from Nice. If I were to return, I’d happily spend a full day here rather than just a few hours exploring between other destinations.
What immediately stood out was the beautiful natural harbor, one of the deepest in the Mediterranean. The colorful waterfront, small fishing boats, and relaxed atmosphere made it feel very different from the busier sections of Nice.
Compared to Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer felt quieter and more intimate. The pastel-colored buildings clustered around the waterfront create a postcard-perfect setting, while the bay itself is so beautiful that it’s easy to understand why so many visitors choose to stop here.
The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot, with narrow streets climbing uphill from the waterfront. As we wandered through its alleyways, we discovered small squares, hidden staircases, and charming corners that invite visitors to have a relaxing time, rather than rushing through.
One of the highlights is Rue Obscure, a covered medieval passageway that runs beneath the old town and dates back several centuries.
If the weather is warm, you may also want to spend some time at Plage des Marinières, the town’s main beach. Stretching along the bay, it has calm waters and beautiful views back towards the colorful waterfront. I had not brought my swimsuit when we visited, and I regretted it because the sea looked very inviting, and it was perfect beach weather.
There are also plenty of cafés and restaurants overlooking the harbor. For this reason, Villefranche-sur-Mer is an excellent place to stop for lunch.
If you’re visiting on a weekend or during the summer season, I recommend making lunch reservations in advance. Many of the restaurants were completely full during my visit, and finding a table without a reservation was difficult. Alternatively, consider bringing a picnic and enjoying it by the waterfront.
Menton
The final stop of the day was Menton, located close to the Italian border. My cousin currently works there, so I had the benefit of exploring the city with someone who knows it well and could point out places I might otherwise have missed.
Of the three destinations I visited that day, Menton felt the most Italian to me, which isn’t surprising given its location and history. The architecture, the atmosphere, the food, and even the rhythm of daily life felt closer to Italy than to the other places I visited on the French Riviera.
One of the first things you’ll notice when arriving in Menton is its colorful old town, which climbs dramatically up the hillside above the sea. The pastel facades, bell towers, and narrow streets create one of the most recognizable views on the French Riviera and make for fantastic photographs.
Compared to the busier destinations along the coast (especially Èze), Menton felt more relaxed and calmer, despite the number of visitors.
Menton is also famous for its lemons and hosts the annual Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), one of the most important events on the French Riviera. Throughout the city, you’ll find references to lemons everywhere, from souvenir shops to local products and desserts.
Another thing I loved about Menton was its beach. The city has a long stretch of coastline with clear water. It’s an excellent place to spend a few hours relaxing after sightseeing. I did not get to swim during my visit, but the water looked incredibly inviting. If you’re not in a hurry, set aside some extra time to enjoy the beach.
Where To Stay In Nice
Nice is a fairly compact city, so where you stay will largely depend on the type of experience you’re looking for rather than concerns about getting around.
After talking to my cousin for recommendations, during my visit I chose to stay in Vieux Nice (Old Town), mainly because I love historic neighborhoods and wanted to be able to step outside my hotel and immediately immerse myself in the atmosphere of the city.
After spending several days exploring Nice, I think these are the best areas to stay.
Vieux Nice (Old Town)
If it’s your first time in Nice and you enjoy historic neighborhoods, this is my favorite area. You’ll be surrounded by colorful buildings, lively squares, restaurants, cafés, markets, and many of the city’s main attractions.
The downside is that streets can be busy, especially during the evening, and most buildings don’t have parking in case you decide to rent a car (but honestly, public transport works well even to reach the French Riviera towns so you don’t need it).
Recommended hotel: Hotel Rossetti
This is where I stayed during my trip. It is just steps from Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, Hotel Rossetti and offers comfortable rooms in the heart of the old town. I found it to be an excellent base for exploring Nice on foot.
Place Masséna
The area around Place Masséna offers a good balance between the historic center and the more modern parts of Nice. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of Vieux Nice, the Promenade des Anglais, shopping streets, restaurants, and public transportation.
It’s a practical choice if you want a central location without being right in the middle of the busiest streets of the old town.
Recommended hotel: Nice Garden Hotel
This small boutique hotel offers a peaceful atmosphere despite its central location. It has a beautiful garden for guests, and it offers easy access to both Place Masséna and the Promenade des Anglais.
Promenade des Anglais
If waking up to sea views is your priority, the Promenade des Anglais is hard to beat. Staying here puts you directly on Nice’s famous waterfront, with beaches, restaurants, and beautiful Mediterranean views right outside your door.
Keep in mind that hotels along the promenade tend to be more expensive than elsewhere in the city, especially during the summer months.
Recommended hotel: Le Negresco
One of the most iconic hotels on the French Riviera, Le Negresco combines historic grandeur, exceptional service, and an unbeatable location on the Promenade des Anglais. If your budget allows for a splurge, it offers one of the most memorable stays in Nice.
Expert tip: If you’re planning to visit Nice between May and September, don’t leave accommodation until the last minute. Nice is one of the most popular destinations in France, and hotels in the best areas often sell out well in advance. Prices also rise significantly as availability decreases.
Is Nice Expensive?
Before visiting Nice, I expected it to be eye-wateringly expensive. After all, it sits on the French Riviera and has a reputation as one of France’s most glamorous destinations.
My cousin, who has lived in Nice for more than 20 years, certainly didn’t try to convince me otherwise. In fact, he repeatedly pointed out that Nice is one of the most expensive cities in France, both for residents and visitors, and pretty much as expensive as Paris.
After spending a few days there, however, I came away with a slightly more nuanced impression. Yes, Nice is expensive by French standards, but I didn’t find it nearly as expensive as I had expected.
Hotels
Accommodation is where you’ll feel the cost of Nice most clearly.
Hotels are generally more expensive than in many other French cities, particularly during the summer months when demand is at its highest. Prices can increase significantly between June and September, especially in the most desirable areas such as Vieux Nice and along the Promenade des Anglais.
If you’re visiting during peak season, I strongly recommend booking well in advance to secure the best rates.
Food and drinks
Restaurants, cafés, and wine bars were actually less expensive than I had anticipated.
Coming from Sardinia, I found that prices were broadly comparable to what I would expect to pay in many parts of Italy. A coffee, a glass of wine, an apéro, or a meal at a casual restaurant didn’t feel dramatically more expensive than similar experiences back home.
Of course, prices vary depending on location and the type of establishment you choose. Waterfront restaurants and upscale venues can be expensive, but there are plenty of reasonably priced options throughout the city.
Overall, food and drinks were not the budget-breaking expense I had expected them to be.
Transportation
Transportation was probably the biggest surprise.
Nice is an extremely walkable city, and I spent most of my time exploring on foot. When I needed to travel farther, I found the tram system efficient, modern, and very affordable. The tram is also one of the easiest ways to travel between the airport and the city center – that’s what I used.
Regional trains are equally convenient and inexpensive. During my trip, it became clear why so many people use Nice as a base for exploring the French Riviera. Destinations such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco can all be reached quickly and cheaply by train.
Compared to many other popular European destinations, transportation costs in Nice felt remarkably reasonable.
Beaches
One thing many visitors don’t realize is that Nice’s public beaches are free – pretty much like beaches in Sardinia.
You can simply bring a towel and enjoy the sea without paying an entrance fee. Given the city’s location on the French Riviera, I found this surprisingly refreshing.
That said, Nice is also home to several private beach clubs where you’ll pay for sunbeds, umbrellas, food, and drinks. These can be quite expensive, particularly during the summer season, so costs can add up quickly if you’re looking for a more luxurious beach experience.
My overall impression
Nice is not a budget destination, and if you’re traveling during peak season you’ll certainly notice higher prices, particularly for accommodation.
That said, I found it more affordable than I expected, given its reputation as one of the flagship destinations on the French Riviera. While hotels can be expensive, transportation is remarkably affordable, public beaches are free, and food and drink prices didn’t feel dramatically different from what I’m used to paying in Italy.
In other words, Nice isn’t cheap, but it’s not nearly as inaccessible as its glamorous reputation might lead you to believe.
Best Time To Visit Nice
I visited Nice at the end of May and found it to be an excellent time to be there. The weather was warm and sunny, outdoor dining was in full swing, and the sea was already pleasant enough for a quick swim. The city was busy, but it never felt overwhelmingly crowded.
In general, I think late spring (May), early summer (June) and early fall (September and October) are the best times to visit Nice. During these months, you can usually expect pleasant temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and less crowds than in the peak season. They’re also ideal if you plan to spend time exploring nearby destinations such as Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Monaco, or Antibes.
July and August are the busiest months of the year. If you visit then, expect higher hotel prices, crowded beaches, busier roads, and longer waits at popular attractions. This doesn’t mean you should avoid Nice during the summer, but it’s worth planning ahead and making reservations whenever possible.
Winter offers a completely different experience. Temperatures remain relatively mild compared to much of Europe (my cousin always says it is similar to coastal Sardinia), so Nice is a popular destination for winter sun and city breaks in Europe. While swimming may not be appealing, you’ll benefit from lower prices and far fewer tourists.
If I were planning another trip, I would happily return in late May, when the weather is already excellent but the city still feels manageable.
FAQs About Visiting Nice
Yes. After spending three days in Nice, I found it to be an excellent destination for a city break and a great base for exploring the French Riviera. The city combines beautiful architecture, a lively old town, excellent food, a scenic waterfront, and easy access to destinations such as Èze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Menton.
I think three days is ideal for a first visit. This gives you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, spend some time at the beach, enjoy the local food scene, and take a day trip along the French Riviera. If you’re short on time, two days are enough to see the highlights of Nice itself.
I visited Nice at the end of May and found it to be an excellent time to be there. The weather was warm and sunny, the sea was already pleasant enough for a swim, and the city felt lively without being overwhelmingly crowded. In general, May, June, September, and October are often considered the best months to visit.
Absolutely. One of the things that impressed me most was how easy it is to travel around the French Riviera using public transportation. Regional trains connect Nice with destinations such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes, while buses provide access to places such as Èze. Unless you plan to visit more remote villages, you can comfortably explore much of the region without renting a car.
Nice is one of the more expensive cities in France, particularly when it comes to accommodation. However, I found food and drink prices broadly comparable to many places in Italy, including Sardinia. Public transportation is also surprisingly affordable.
Yes. Nice has several public beaches where you can swim. The beaches are mostly covered in pebbles rather than sand, so I recommend bringing water shoes or beach shoes. During my visit at the end of May, the water was already warm enough for a quick swim.
For a first visit, I recommend staying in Vieux Nice (Old Town), around Place Masséna, or along the Promenade des Anglais.
Vieux Nice is ideal if you enjoy historic neighborhoods and being close to restaurants and attractions. Place Masséna offers a convenient central location with easy access to both the old town and the waterfront. The Promenade des Anglais is the best choice if you want sea views and direct access to the beach.
Final Remarks
Before this trip, Nice had been on my travel radar for years. I’m glad I finally made it there.
Between the elegant architecture, lively old town, Mediterranean atmosphere, and easy access to some of the most beautiful destinations on the French Riviera, I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable place to spend a few days.
Having family in Nice undoubtedly enriched the experience, allowing me to see parts of the city through a local’s eyes rather than simply checking off the main attractions. At the same time, I think Nice works equally well for independent travelers looking for a city break, a beach vacation, or a base from which to explore the wider region.
Three days gave me enough time to appreciate the city and visit a few nearby destinations, but I left with plenty of reasons to return.
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