10 Things To Do in Nice, France
If you’re planning a trip to Nice in the South of France, you’re in for a treat. With its beautiful blue water, Old Town, and chic Riviera energy, Nice is the kind of place that charms you immediately. After multiple visits, these are my top 10 favorite things to do in Nice, whether it’s your first time or your fifth.
1. Spend a Day at a Beach Club
Nice’s beaches may be pebbly, but the beach club experience is top-tier. The iconic striped umbrellas, drinks and food service to the beach, and uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean.
My top three recommendations:
Ruhl Plage – €30 for a beach chair and umbrella, €7 for a towel
Le Temps d’un Été – €35 for a beach chair and umbrella
Castel Plage – €30 for a beach chair and umbrella, €7 for a towel
Travel Tip: Arrive early in peak season, especially in summer to reserve your spot!
Le Temps d’un Été
2. Ride the Trains Touristiques de Nice
If you want a relaxed overview of the city, the Trains Touristiques de Nice is a great option.
Cost: €8–12
Duration: ~45–50 minutes
Includes multilingual audio commentary and a 10-minute stop at Castle Hill
It’s an easy, informative introduction to Nice - especially if you’re short on time.
3. Explore the Port of Nice
The port area is one of my favorite places to wander. Between the colorful buildings, massive yachts, and lively energy, it feels distinctly local.
Restaurants and bars I love here:
Perfect for a casual dinner or late-night drinks.
Port of Nice
4. Wander the Farmers Markets
The Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya is a must. This open-air flower and food market runs daily except Mondays.
On Mondays, the same space transforms into an antiques and flea market, where you’ll find vintage clothing, books, jewelry, and unique souvenirs.
There are also smaller markets almost every Saturday outside Place du Palais de Justice, and they’re full of hidden gems.
5. Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
If you skip the tourist train, walk up Castle Hill yourself. The stairs begin just off the Promenade des Anglais, and yes, it’s a workout. But the reward is worth it with the best view of the Bay of Angels.
Travel Tip: Walk up from the port side instead. It’s quieter, more shaded, and far more peaceful. I stumbled upon this route and wish I knew about it the first time!
The hill itself is rich with history but don’t expect to see an actual castle; the original citadel was destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706.
Accessibility: There’s also an elevator if needed.
View from the top of Castle Hill
6. Catch an OGC Nice Match
Even if football isn’t usually your thing, an OGC Nice match is such a fun experience. My husband and I took our family last summer, and even the non–football fans had a blast.
The stadium is an easy tram ride away, the crowd energy is infectious, and you can often find affordable last-minute tickets.
7. Take a Day Trip to Èze & Monaco
You can absolutely visit both in one day if you plan well. Èze sits between Nice and Monaco and is famous for its medieval streets and jaw-dropping Mediterranean views. Don’t miss the Jardin Exotique, perched at the very top. Then head to Monaco, where luxury is the norm. From the Monte Carlo Casino to the superyachts and high-end cars, it feels so glamorous.
View point from Jardin Exotique in Eze
8. Visit Place Massena
Place Masséna is the heart of the city. Known for its bright buildings, checkerboard plaza, and pedestrian-only layout, it’s lively day and night. You’ll find cafés, restaurants, shops, and the Fontaine du Soleil, along with the iconic statues by artist Jaume Plensa representing the continents.
9. Drinks (or Dinner) at Le Plongeoir
Le Plongeoir is one of the most iconic dining spots in Nice. Reservations can be tough to get, but you can often grab drinks at the bar instead. Perched over the sea near the port, it’s the ultimate sunset spot that is so romantic and unforgettable.
Le Plongeoir Restaurant
10. Stop by Hotel Negresco
You don’t need to stay here to appreciate it. Hôtel Negresco is one of the most famous landmarks in Nice, known for its beautiful architecture and pink dome. Recognized as a historical monument, it’s worth popping inside just to admire the art-filled interiors or at least stopping for photos along the Promenade des Anglais.
Nice is the kind of destination that balances relaxation, culture, and fun perfectly. Whether you’re sipping rosé by the sea, shopping, or cheering at a football match, it’s a place that truly has something for everyone.
