Perched along the enchanting French Riviera, Nice is one of those destinations you instantly love. Azure waters clinging to rocky beaches, hilly vantage points, and warm-toned facades with pops of Art Nouveau… she’s a pretty face for sure, but there’s more to Nice than just aesthetics.

With its balmy location just a stone’s throw from the Italian border, Nice has a warm and unique identity that you won’t find in many other French cities. For that reason, it’s one of my favourite places to visit in France, offering the perfect combo of beaches, nature, culture, and just… good vibes.

So, if you’re curious what to do in Nice, this post will guide you through some of the best must-dos, from sweeping views and elegant squares to local treats that will have you swoonig.

And I promise, I won’t make a single joke about Nice being nice. Okay, fine – just that one… but no more after this. Promise!

1. Enjoy the Views from Colline du Château (Castle Hill)

We’ll start with my personal favourite thing to do in Nice – as a sucker for views, I won’t hesitate to recommend the sweaty slog up Nice’s Castle Hill, known in French as Colline du Château.

Castle Hill was once the site of a formidable castle that dominated Nice. This castle, built in the 11th century, was a key defensive stronghold until it was destroyed by Louis XIV’s troops in 1706. Although the castle is no longer there, the hill has been transformed into a beautiful public park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below.

As you ascend, you’re greeted by breathtaking views of the city’s epic coastline, along with the bright orange rooftops that give Nice its warm, distinctive glow. The park itself is a lush, green oasis filled with winding paths, beautiful gardens, and charming picnic spots. There’s even a stunning man-made waterfall, the Cascade Dijon (oui, like the mustard).

NOTE: There’s an elevator to the top if you’d prefer an easier route than walking!

2. … Or take in the views from Mont Boron

Nice is a city filled with pretty views, and for those who can’t get enough, Mont Boron is another great bet.

Offering awe-inspiring views of the Baie des Anges, this viewpoint is reachable by catching the number 14 bus from the city center, which takes you up to the park entrance. If you’re up for a bit of exercise, you can also hike or bike up the hill. It’s a bit of a climb, but the journey through the scenic, tree-lined paths is definitely worth it.

Once you reach the top, the views are nothing short of breathtaking. From Mount Boron, you get a panoramic vista of Nice, the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, and even the distant Alps on a clear day.

PS: One of the highlights of Mount Boron is Fort du Mont Alban, a historic military fort dating back to the 16th century, so don’t miss it!

3. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais

In terms of iconic things to do in Nice, perhaps no activity is more popular than a casual stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a legendary 7km boulevard stretching from the airport to the heart of Nice.

Translated to “Promenade of the English”, this gorgeous walkway gets its name from the English aristocrats who flocked to Nice in the 1820s during the winter months to escape the cold British weather. They wanted a beautiful seaside promenade to enjoy the stunning views and mild climate, so they funded the construction of this promenade.

Often simply called “La Prom,” this walkway stretches for about 7 kilometers along the Baie des Anges, offering gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is lined with palm trees and dotted with iconic blue chairs where you can relax while watching the world go by.

Throughout your walk, you’ll pass by several notable landmarks, such as the Jardin Albert 1er, a lovely park perfect for a picnic, and the stunning, Belle Époque-style Negresco Hotel. The promenade also features numerous art installations and sculptures.

4. Enjoy some beach time

And if you’re looking for more relaxing things to do in Nice, another obvious bet is sprawling yourself out on a beach.

While (fair warning) most of Nice’s beaches are infamously pebbly and tough to relax on, there are some beachy gems to still be enjoyed. Some of the most popular public beaches are…

• Plage Beau Rivage: One of the most well-known and chicest beaches in Nice. Located just off the Promenade des Anglais, it’s a great spot if you’re looking for a bit of luxury. This beach offers both private and public areas. In the private section, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, and there’s a stylish beach club where you can order food and drinks right to your spot. The beach itself is made of pebbles, like most of Nice’s beaches, and the water is usually crystal clear.
• Lido Plage: For the sporty types, Lido Beach is the main hub for exciting water activities like wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking or floating around on a banana boat! There’s a pontoon close to shore if you want to swim out and then jump off it, along with a private beach club if you want to relax. The beach is pebbly and lined with cafés and restaurants, so it’s a great choice no matter what kind of beach day you’re looking for.
• Plage des Marinieres: If you really can’t stand the pebbly beaches, you can take a short train ride to this beach in Villefranche-sur-Mer (the next town over from Nice) which is actually sandy and directly outside the train station! There are public toilets and restaurants/cafés nearby, but otherwise it’s not very built up.

5. Admire Place Masséna

The main square of Nice, Place Masséna is a unique treat for the eyes – with distinctive black and white tiling framed by deep red buildings and the occasional swaying palm tree. No visit to Nice is complete without a visit here, even though there’s not much by way of activities.

Dating back to the 19th century, it was named after André Masséna, a Marshal of France who was born in Nice. One of the highlights of Place Masséna is the Fontaine du Soleil, or Fountain of the Sun, located at the southern end of the square. This impressive fountain features a towering statue of Apollo surrounded by five bronze figures representing different planets.

In addition to being outrageously pretty, throughout the year, Place Masséna hosts numerous events and festivals. During the Nice Carnival for instance, the square becomes a lively center of parades and celebrations, while during the Christmas season, it transforms into a winter wonderland with a charming market and ice skating rink.

6. Enjoy a Market at Cours Saleya

For a uniquely Nice experience, another fun must-do is immersing yourself in the bustling Cours Saleya market. Here, you’ll find a myriad of treasures, from colourful flowers and aromatic spices to unique souvenirs. I loved ogling all the fresh and beautiful displays here, and grabbing a few treats myself for some sightseeing fuel.

Cours Saleya has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century when it started as a gathering place for traders and locals. Over the years, it has evolved into one of Nice’s most famous markets, drawing both locals and tourists alike. The market is open every day except Monday, when it transforms into an antique market. On other days, it’s a feast for the senses, with stalls brimming with fresh produce, flowers, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

7. Amble around Old Town

Vieux Nice, or Old Town, is the heart and soul of the city, with beautiful buildings in every shade of yellow, pink, and orange. This part of the city dates back to the medieval era with the architecture reflecting the region’s Italian influence.

As you wander through, you’ll notice the buildings are a mix of styles, from Baroque to Genoese, each telling a part of Nice’s rich history. One of the highlights of Vieux Nice is the Cours Saleya market, which I mentioned before. Just a stone’s throw from the market is the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, a simple but beautiful Baroque cathedral dedicated to the patron saint of Nice.

As you continue through the Old Town, you’ll also find the Palais Lascaris, a former aristocratic residence that’s now a museum where you can get a glimpse of 17th-century life in Nice. And one of my favorite spots is the Place Rossetti, a lively square at the heart of Vieux Nice. It’s surrounded by charming cafes and gelaterias, making it a perfect place to sit down, enjoy a scoop of gelato, and watch the world go by.

If you’re short on time, you can also book a walking tour that includes food and wine stops to make the most of your time in the city!

8. Stroll around Old Port

The Old Port of Nice, or Port Lympia as it’s officially known, is another fun spot to explore in Nice, whether you’re into ogling colourful buildings or an array of boats and yachts.

One of the highlights for visitors is the Quai des Deux Emmanuels, a long promenade that stretches along the water. Seafood lovers will be in heaven here, with many restaurants serving up fresh, locally caught fish and other delicious dishes.

Or, if you’re up for a bit of a walk, you can head towards the lighthouse and the breakwater at the end of the port. The views from here are fantastic, offering a sweeping panorama of the Mediterranean and the city of Nice behind you.

9. Munch on Some Socca

If you’re looking for foodie things to do in Nice, Socca is a traditional Niçoise snack that you should definitely try.

This thin pancake-like specitalty is made from chickpea flour, olive oil, and a pinch of salt… which I know doesn’t sound like much, but it’s a crispy and satisfying specialty that you’ll find sold all around the city. Beware that it can be a bit bland on its own though (sorry, Nice!)

10. Try the City’s Famous Namesake Salad

Salade Niçoise is another iconic dish to put on your Nice bucket list. With a divisive ingredients list including anchovies, tuna, olives and a delicious blend of fresh vegetables, this refreshing salad can be found in local restaurants all around town… and is well worth a try!

11. Hop on a boat cruise

Of course, if time allows, one of the best ways to experience the balmy allure of the French Riviera is by boat. Luckily, there’s no shortage of boat cruises that leave from Nice.

This one, for instance, will take you past some of the most gorgeous villas on the coastline, and it’s an almost silent electric boat so you’ll be able to enjoy your peaceful outing without loud engine noises. You can even have a go of piloting the boat yourself if you feel like it!

12. Admire the Nice Russian Orthodox Cathedral

For admirers of architecture, one of Nice’s prettiest hidden gems is its Russian Orthodox Cathedral. This ornate cathedral, with its colorful domes and intricate design, offers a unique contrast to the city’s Mediterranean surroundings.

And if you’re wondering why this Orthodox gem was built here, the explanation is fairly simple. The cathedral was built in the early 20th century and completed in 1912, thanks to the support of Tsar Nicholas II. At that time, many wealthy Russians spent their winters in Nice, enjoying the mild climate. The Russian community in the city had grown significantly, and they needed a place of worship. Thus, the cathedral was constructed to serve their spiritual needs and to commemorate Tsarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich, the heir to the Russian throne who had died in Nice in 1865.

As you enter the cathedral, you’ll be welcomed by a beautiful and serene interior, with the walls and ceilings covered in stunning frescoes and icons, typical of Russian Orthodox churches. The intricate iconostasis, a screen decorated with icons, separates the nave from the sanctuary and is truly a work of art.

13. Check out the Notre Dame de Nice

And if you’re not all churched out at this point, the Notre Dame de Nice, or Basilica of Notre-Dame de Nice, is one of the city’s most iconic and beautiful landmarks so it’s also well worth a visit.

The basilica was built in the mid-19th century, between 1864 and 1868, during a period when Nice was experiencing significant growth and modernization. It was designed by the French architect Charles Lenormand, who was inspired by the Gothic Revival style.

As you approach Notre Dame de Nice, the first thing you’ll notice is its impressive facade. The twin towers rise majestically, reaching about 65 meters high, while the facade is adorned with beautiful statues and carvings. Stepping inside you’ll see the beautiful stained glass windows that line the walls.

The basilica is not just a place of worship but also a cultural hub in Nice. Throughout the year, it hosts various concerts and events that are open to the public. The acoustics inside the church are fantastic, making it an excellent venue for classical music performances.

14. Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain

Next, if you’re looking for things to do in Nice for culture lovers, then a visit to Nice’s Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is a must. Home to a remarkable collection of contemporary artworks, from Yves Klein’s “Anthropometry” to Andy Warhol’s creations, this museum is housed in a huge building, with striking glass facades and rooftop terraces offering panoramic views of the city.

Visitors can explore various temporary and permanent exhibitions that highlight the evolution of artistic movements like Pop Art, New Realism, and American Abstraction. It’s unfortunately closed for four years of renovations as of January 2024, but if you’re planning a visit after 2028 you’ll be able to enjoy everything here once again. It’s sure to be even more impressive than before!

15. Admire the Collection at Musée Matisse

A must-visit in Nice for art lovers, Musée Matisse houses an impressive collection of works by the renowned artist Henri Matisse… glamorously set, of course, in a beautiful 17th-century villa surrounded by olive trees.

This museum boasts a comprehensive collection of Matisse’s paintings, sculptures, drawings, and personal objects. It provides a deep insight into his artistic journey, from his early works to his famous cut-outs. The surrounding gardens and the nearby Roman ruins add to the charm of this cultural haven.

16. Or Visit Musée Marc Chagall

The Musée Marc Chagall is another must-visit for fans of this artist’s dreamlike and vibrant works. This museum, specifically designed by Chagall himself, houses the largest public collection of his works, including his famous Biblical Message series.

Located in a tranquil setting, the museum’s layout and garden create a reflective atmosphere where visitors can fully appreciate Chagall’s use of color and symbolism. Temporary exhibitions and events often complement the permanent collection, offering fresh perspectives on his oeuvre.

Okay, changing gears now from art to sports, another Nice attraction for your list is the National Sports Museum!

This unique museum celebrates the rich history of sports and athleticism in France through displays containing memorabilia of legendary athletes, along with interactive exhibits that highlight the evolution of sports as well as their cultural impact..

This is definitely a good pick if you (or someone you’re traveling with) needs a break from art or is just a sports enthusiast! It would also be fun for those visiting Nice with kids.

18. Try Out a Perfume Making Workshop

Nice is renowned for its perfumeries, so one of the best things to do is no doubt joining a perfume-making workshop to explore the art of fragrance creation.

Plus, you get the best souvenir ever, so it’s a win all round.

During this workshop, you’ll start by exploring the boutique, then you’ll get to design your own personal fragrance with the help of an expert. Using a perfume organ, you’ll choose from 90 different essences to create your perfect scent over 60 minutes. At the end of the workshop, you’ll receive a diploma as a lovely souvenir, along with the unique perfume you’ve crafted yourself.

19. Enjoy Some of Nice’s Nightlife

Apart from views and walks, one thing that Nice is known for is nightlife, something you can easily experience either DIY-style, or with a guided tour of the city’s lively bars and clubs, like this one.

The jazz scene in particular is something that Nice is known for, thanks to the many American immigrants in the 1920s who brought it over, so be sure to take advantage.

And keep an eye out for special events too! I’ve heard great things about Carnaval de Nice celebrations, and Fête de la Musique, (celebrated every summer solstice on June 21st) offers a fantastic chance to enjoy live music in the streets… though a very, very crowded one.

This annual event happened to coincide with my 2nd visit to the city, and while it was fun to roam around through densely packed streets with music on every corner, I think just once was enough for my poor homebody soul.

20. Enjoy a Gorgeous Coastal Walk to Villefranche sur Mer

For a picturesque adventure, another fun thing to do in Nice is a coastal walk to Villefranche sur Mer, a charming city about 6.5km away from Nice. The scenic route that joins them hugs the coastline, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and takes about an hour and a half each way.

One of the things I love about this walk is how close you are to the water. The path often runs right along the edge of the cliffs, offering uninterrupted views of the sparkling blue sea. On a sunny day, the water is incredibly clear, and you can sometimes spot fish swimming below or people snorkeling in the sea.

The walk is not too challenging, but there are a few parts with stairs and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. Not up for a walk? You can also book a (much easier) e-bike tour like this one.

21. Take a Day Trip to Monaco

Finally, if you want a taste of the luxe life, another fun day trip to enjoy from Nice is the glamorous micro-country of Monaco, where billionaires and their yachts gather to make the rest of us feel very bad about our bank accounts.

Don’t worry though – Monaco is well worth a visit even for those on a budget, and there’s plenty to see beyond just luxury cars and casinos.

Learn more in my list of things to do in Monaco for cheap.

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Nice?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best Nice activities to the list. Happy and safe travels! 🙂