My dear travellers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the new travelogue on the Mr.M blog. After the travelogue from the City of Light, the capital of France – Paris, which won your hearts, it is time to devote ourselves to the pearl of the French Riviera. Nice is one of those cities that justify every day you dedicate to it. I spent a few days in it and left with a notebook full of impressions and advice.
Before I start today’s travelogue about Nice, I want to express my special thanks to the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism and Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa for supporting and promoting quality tourism around the world. Their dedication to connecting cultures and destinations is an inspiration to all of us who believe that travel enriches the soul.
First, let’s start with the most important one, which is where Nice is actually located. The city lies in the southeast of France, on the very coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the capital of the Côte d’Azur and the fifth largest city in the country. Since the Alps descend almost to the sea, here you have both a beach and a mountain in the same day.
I have divided this guide into parts for easy reference. I will guide you through the Promenade, the beaches, the Old Town and the famous market. At the end, the hotel where I stayed is waiting for you, with all the details.
WHY IS NICE ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA?
Nice has been attracting visitors from all over the world for more than two centuries. The reason is simple: the sun shines here almost all year round. The mild Mediterranean climate brings warm winters and pleasant summers, so the city never stands still.
The glory of Nice began with the English aristocracy. Rich Englishmen came here to spend the winter away from their cold and gloomy homeland. Over time, they were joined by Russian nobles, artists and writers. Thus, the city became the winter refuge of the European elite.
Today, Nice carries a title that says it all. Namely, in 2021, UNESCO included it in the list of world heritage as “winter resort of the Riviera”. Experts believe that this city invented the very concept of the Riviera. It is a rare example of a place defining an entire lifestyle.
In addition to climate and history, Nice also offers the perfect mix of amenities. In one place you have beaches, museums, luxury shops and a picturesque old quarter. You can swim in the morning, and in the afternoon see the baroque churches. In the evening, dinner awaits you with a view of the sea.
The city is also an excellent starting point for further trips. Monaco is only half an hour’s drive away. Cannes, Antibes and the Italian border are equally close. That is why many choose Nice as a base for exploring the entire coast.
THE HISTORY OF NICE: FROM GREEK ROOTS TO RIVIERA ICON
The history of Nice begins long before we can even imagine. Archaeologists have found traces of human presence at the Tera Amata site that are about 400,000 years old. Therefore, people have loved this area since time immemorial.
The real city was founded by the ancient Greeks around 350 BC. Settlers from Massalia, today’s Marseille, built a settlement on the coast. They named it in honor of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. This is how Nikaya was born, the forerunner of today’s Nice.
The Romans later built a separate city on a nearby hill. It was called Kemenelum, and today it is the district of Cimiez. For centuries, various masters and cultures have changed in this area.
Nice spent a large part of its past under the rule of Savoy and Sardinia. For a long time, the city looked more towards Turin than towards Paris. The Italian influence therefore still strongly marks the architecture and cuisine.
The turning point came in 1860. With the Treaty of Turin, Nice was annexed to France, and the decision was confirmed by a popular plebiscite. The official unification was celebrated in June of the same year. Since then, the city belongs to France, but it has never lost its Italian charm.
This dual soul is best seen at every step. Street names are written in French, but also in the old Niš dialect. Past and present live together here.
CASTLE HILL IN NICE: THE BEST VIEW IN THE CITY
I started my acquaintance with the city by climbing the hill of the castle. Colline du Château, as the French name reads, rises 92 meters above the sea. The whole of Nice used to start from this place.
It was here that the Greeks built their acropolis. Later, a medieval fortress with a cathedral emerged on the top. Over the centuries, the hill was the heart of the city’s defense and its most fortified place.
The fate of the fortress was, unfortunately, tragic. By order of King Louis the Fourteenth, the army demolished it in 1706. Today, only the foundations and some walls remain from the former fortification.
There is a beautiful park on the site of the ruins. The paths wind through pines and palm trees, and the shade is pleasant on a hot day. In the heart of the park there is an artificial waterfall, built way back in 1885.
The main reason for coming is the view. The view from the viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama. Under your feet lie the Bay of Angels, the red roofs of the Old Town and the harbor full of yachts.
There are several ways to get to the top. The easiest is the elevator, which has been operating since 1912. Adventurers will prefer to choose the stairs and climb through the greenery. Regardless of the choice, the effort is well worth it. A little tip at the end: come before noon. That’s when the light is the most beautiful for photos, and the crowds are still small.
NICE: DISCOVERING THE LEGENDARY PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS
No description of Nice can bypass its famous promenade. The Promenade des Anglais stretches for about seven kilometers along the coast. It starts at the airport and ends at the edge of the Old Town.
The name of the promenade hides an interesting story. During the harsh winter of 1820, many poor residents lost their jobs. The English priest Lewis Way then financed the construction of a path along the sea. Thus, he provided work for the unemployed, and a permanent gift to the city.
The locals named the new path “The English Path” out of charity. The official name Promenade des Anglais was established around 1844. The English, in fact, were the first to winter en masse here.
Today, the promenade is the heart of city life. I walked along it in the early morning, when runners and cyclists share the path with the first tourists. Palm trees line up endlessly, while the sea shines on the left.
Luxurious hotels and villas from the Belle Epoque are lined along the promenade. Among them, the building of Hotel Suisse stands out, located right under the hill of the castle. Next to it, the famous inscription “Castel” lights up.
I was especially delighted by the sight of people on the white fence. Locals and tourists sit facing the open sea and are simply silent. At that moment, I realized the real charm of this city. The promenade is also a favorite spot for photos. The large inscription “#ILoveNICE” shines in the colors of the French flag. Tourists like to take pictures here, with the sea and the beach in the background.
THE BAY OF ANGELS AND THE BEAUTIFUL BEACHES OF NICE
The sea in Nice has a poetic name. The Bay of Angels, or Baie des Anges, stretches out in a perfect arc in front of the city. The water in it changes color from light turquoise to deep cobalt.
The beaches along the bay have one peculiarity. Namely, you will not find fine sand here, but small white pebbles. The pebbles may not be the most comfortable to lie on, but that’s why the water remains incredibly clear. Part of the beach is public and completely free. The other part belongs to hotels and clubs, which offer sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee. Everyone can find a place to their liking.
During warm days, the beach comes alive. People sunbathe, swim and play volleyball. The promenade above them, on the other hand, never stops pulsating. I visited the beach in the spring, off-peak season. The atmosphere then is completely different and much calmer. A few brave swimmers enjoyed the fresh sea, while the rest just soaked up the sun.
The beach offers a special view of the city. The hills in the background and ocher colored buildings create an unforgettable backdrop. This is why this sea is, without exaggeration, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.
PLACE MASSÉNA: THE BEATING HEART OF NICE
Every walk in Nice sooner or later leads to Massena Square. This spacious square is the most important gathering place in the city. It combines the Old Town, the promenade and modern shopping streets.
The square is named after the famous marshal Andre Massena. We are talking about a military leader born in Nice, who served under Napoleon. Today, the most beautiful city plateau proudly bears his name. You are first struck by the color of the buildings. Facades in shades of red ocher are reminiscent of Italian palaces. Many call this warm tone “Pompeian red”. Arcades, shops and the famous Galeries Lafayette are hidden under it.
Under your feet is another symbol of the square. Namely, the entire surface is paved with black and white tiles in the shape of a chess board. This effective pattern has become a favorite motif of photographers. The Fountain of the Sun rises in the center of the square. On its top stands the bronze Apollo, about seven meters high. Figures representing the planets are arranged around him.
However, the statues on the tall pillars attract the most attention. The work of the Catalan artist Jaume Plense was installed in 2007. The seven illuminated figures represent the seven continents. At night, they change colors, so it looks like they are having a silent conversation. I visited the square during the day and in the evening. Believe me, every time it seemed completely different, but equally magical.
AVENUE JEAN MÉDECIN: NICE’S MAIN BOULEVARD AND THE BASILICA OF NOTRE-DAME
The main city artery starts from Massena Square. Avenue Jean Médecin is the most important shopping street in Nice. There are shopping malls, department stores and countless shops here. A modern tram glides down the middle of the avenue. Quiet and clean compositions connect the whole city, so driving is a real joy. Along the street, rows of trees and elegant buildings alternate.
The greatest landmark of the avenue is the magnificent church. The Basilica of Notre-Dame is the largest place of worship in Nice. Although it resembles a cathedral, it is not formally so.
The church was built in the Neo-Gothic style between 1864 and 1868. The architect modeled himself on the famous cathedral in Angers and Notre Dame in Paris. Two slender towers reach a height of 31 meters. The reason for the construction was also symbolic. Namely, after joining France, the city wanted to emphasize its new identity. At that time, Gothic was considered a typically French style.
The facade is decorated with a huge rosette, a real lace in stone. The interior exudes peace and light that comes through the stained glass windows. I stopped for a moment to absorb the silence in the middle of the bustling city. In front of the basilica is a pleasant square with trees. From there, there is a beautiful view of the entire facade. This place is ideal for a short break during a walk.
OLD TOWN OF NICE: THE HISTORIC HEART OF THE CITY
I found the real soul of Nice in its Old Town. Vieux Nice is a tangle of narrow and winding streets. Here, time seems to have stopped several centuries ago. The facades of the houses are painted in warm colors. Ocher, terracotta and red alternate at each step. Laundry is drying and flower pots are hanging from the window.
The streets are so narrow that the sun barely reaches the cobblestones. It is precisely in that shade that a pleasant freshness is hidden. A piece of blue sky occasionally appears above the heads.
A discovery awaits at every corner. Small shops offer soaps, spices and local products. The smell of fresh pastries and juicy pizza wafts from the bakery. The old town is also full of baroque churches. Their vanilla-colored facades hide lavish interiors. Gilding, frescoes and domes leave a strong impression on the visitor.
The hill of the castle is constantly visible above the roofs. It serves as a natural landmark in the maze of alleys. Whenever you get lost, all you have to do is look up. Walking through this neighborhood is a treat for the senses. The sound of footsteps on the cobblestones, the smell of the kitchen and the murmur of guests merge into one. The old town is, without a doubt, the place where I preferred to spend my time.
COURS SALEYA MARKET: A FEAST FOR THE SENSES IN NICE
In the heart of the Old Town is the most famous square. Cours Saleya is the city’s famous market and meeting place of life. It got its name from the salt that was once stored here.
The market has existed in this place since 1816. The first flower market was opened in 1861. A few decades later, Nice received the world’s first wholesale cut flower market. The most beautiful part is definitely the flower market. Stalls bend under bouquets in all colors. Roses, lilies and tulips attract the gaze of passers-by and photographers.
In addition to flowers, other scented products are also offered. I came across a stall full of salt and spices from around the world. Candied fruit, a real Niš specialty, also caught my attention. The market changes its character from day to day. Flowers, fruits and vegetables are sold from Tuesday to Sunday. On Mondays, however, the square turns into a flea market with antiques.
Around the market there are colorful terraces of restaurants. The red awnings of the Mamma Mia restaurant give the square a special charm. Here, with a glass of wine, the daily hustle and bustle is best observed. One historical detail is also interesting. Namely, the famous painter Henri Matisse lived in a building on this square. Without a doubt, he found inspiration precisely in these colors.
NICE’S MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE: FLAVORS OF THE SUN AND SEA
A trip to Nice is not complete without getting to know the local cuisine. Nice cuisine is part of France’s intangible heritage. It combines simple ingredients, olive oil and Mediterranean sun.
The most famous local dish is called soka. It is a thin pancake made from chickpea flour. It is baked at a high temperature and eaten warm and sprinkled with pepper. There is also the famous niçoise salad. It is made from tomatoes, tuna, eggs, anchovies and olives. Fresh and light, it is perfect for a warm summer day.
Pastry lovers must try the pissaladière. This savory pie is topped with caramelized onions, anchovies and black olives. The smell it spreads is hard to resist. For a quick meal, I recommend pan bagnat. It’s actually a salad niçoise housed in a soaked bun. It is ideal for lunch on the beach or on the go.
The tourte de blettes awaits those with a sweet tooth. This unusual pie is made from chard, and can be both salty and sweet. It sounds strange, but the taste pleasantly surprises. At the end of the meal there is the already mentioned candied fruit. Colorful slices adorn the windows of pastry shops throughout the city. This candy is the perfect souvenir that carries the taste of Nice.
I tried food both in restaurants and from stalls. Each bite carried a piece of the Mediterranean noon.
NICE’S OPERA HOUSE AND OLD PORT: TWO ICONIC LANDMARKS
A walk along the Old Town reveals another gem. The Nice Opera House is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Its luxurious facade also hides a sad past. A wooden theater once stood in this place. During the play in 1881, a terrible fire broke out. Unfortunately, a large number of people died in the accident.
The new building was built only a few years later. The opera was inaugurated in 1885 with Verdi’s “Aida”. The architect was a student of the famous Paris school. The facade overlooking the sea radiates Italian elegance. Columns, statues and decorations give the impression of a large theater. The main entrance is, however, on the opposite side.
There is an unexpected detail in front of the opera house. Namely, there is a small copy of the Statue of Liberty. It is a reminder of the famous sculptor Bartoldi and his connections with America. Right next to it is the United States Quay. This seaside promenade used to have a different name. The name was changed in 1917, as a sign of gratitude to America.
A long inscription is carved on the monumental entrance. He explains that the city was honoring President Woodrow Wilson. The reason was America’s entry into the First World War. A bronze statue can be seen through the passage. It is a monument to Jacques Chirac, the former president of France. The square behind the gate bears his name.
CHURCHES OF NICE: TIMELESS BEAUTY CARVED IN STONE
Nice hides a large number of beautiful churches. Each of them tells a part of the city’s past. Styles range from baroque to neoclassical. Baroque churches dominate the Old Town. Their vanilla-colored facades appear modest from the outside. Inside, however, the gilding, frescoes and marble shine.
Colorful bell towers rise above the roofs. Many of them are covered with colorful tiles in different colors. This Italian detail gives the city a special touch. I was particularly impressed by a neoclassical church by the port. Its porch is supported by tall columns with sumptuous capitals. The inscription on the front is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. At the top stands a statue of the Virgin with outstretched arms.
The high city tower with the clock also attracts attention. Its octagonal tower can be seen from many alleys. The bells in it still measure the time of the old town today. Churches are not only religious buildings. They are also a real treasure of art and history. Entrance to them is usually free, and the impression is priceless.
During my walk I stopped at several of them. Every time I was greeted by pleasant freshness and silence. In that silence, the city revealed its spiritual side.
LUXURY SHOPPING IN NICE: STYLE, GLAMOUR, AND ELEGANCE
Nice offers more than just history and the sea. The city is also a real destination for fashion lovers. An exclusive shopping district is located in the very center. Several streets are reserved for the world’s biggest brands. The windows of Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Saint Laurent shine in the sun. There are also Balenciaga, Armani and many other fashion houses.
A walk through these streets is pleasant even without shopping. Elegant facades and neat storefronts are a sight in themselves. Street lamps decorated with flowers further enhance the ambiance. A local fragrance house also caught my attention. Namely, the famous Molinard brand has its store in the center. Provence has always been known for perfumes and flowers.
In addition to luxury, the city also offers more affordable shops. Famous chains are lined up along Avenue Jean Madsen. Everyone can find something for themselves. Fashion in Nice is not just about shopping. It is part of the everyday style and demeanor of the locals. People here cultivate that quiet, unobtrusive elegance.
It was this feature of the city that particularly attracted me. Luxury is not shown loudly, but is taken for granted. Nice knows very well that true luxury lies in simplicity.
THE PORT OF NICE: WHERE LUXURY YACHTS AND LOCAL LIFE MEET
Another gem is hidden in the eastern end of the city. The port of Lympia, or Port Lympia, is a peaceful haven for ships. Here, the everyday hustle and bustle of the promenade replaces the tranquility of the water. Ships of all sizes are rocking in the harbor. In addition to modest sailboats, luxurious yachts are also moored. Their masts create a real forest above the calm sea.
Buildings in warm colors are lined up around the port. Ocher and terracotta facades are reflected in the water. Above them rises a rocky hill covered with greenery. The atmosphere in the harbor is completely relaxed. Fishermen mend nets, and crews prepare ships for departure. Everything happens slowly and without haste.
The port is also the starting point for sea trips. From here, boats depart for nearby towns and islands. The view of the city from the water, they say, is particularly beautiful. I walked along the shore and simply absorbed the scenery. The sun was shining and the water was sparkling in all shades of blue. In that peace, I felt a different face of Nice.
The port is an ideal place to escape from the crowds. Away from the tourist flow, here the city shows its relaxed side. I recommend it to anyone looking for a moment of silence.
HOTEL BOSCOLO NICE & SPA: ELEGANCE IN THE HEART OF THE CITY
During my stay in Nice, I stayed in a special building. Hotel Boscolo Nice & Spa is located at Boulevard Victor Hugo. It is located in the very center, just a few steps from Avenue Jean Médecin. The location of the hotel is just perfect. The promenade, the beaches and the Old Town are only a few minutes’ walk away. The airport, on the other hand, is only seven kilometers away.
The building dates back to the beginning of the twentieth century. It is a luxurious building from the Belle Epoque era. Its facade is protected as part of the city’s heritage. The interior combines classic and contemporary design. White marble, parquet and shades of ivory create an impression of quiet opulence. A red flag with the letter “B” flies proudly over the entrance.
The hotel also has several important awards. It is counted among the historical hotels of Nice, and it also has an ecological certificate. Behind everything is the Italian Boscolo family and their love for France. The gastronomic offer is inspired by Italy. The hotel has as many as three restaurants: Angelo, Genesi and a rooftop bar. The roof terrace with heated pool deserves special attention.
From the roof there is a view of the whole city and the surrounding hills. Namely, this is the only hotel in Nice with even two swimming pools. In addition to the rooftop pool, guests can also enjoy the indoor pool in the spa center. The spa center covers more than five hundred square meters. It offers a sauna, a hammam and top-quality treatments. After a day spent walking, this was a real refreshment.
Hotel Boscolo Nice & Spa: My experience with the Exclusive Room with city view
I stayed in an Exclusive Room with Terrace room. It won me over with her warmth at first glance. The combination of classic elegance and comfort was perfect. In the room, I was greeted by numerous details and small signs of attention. On the tray were macaroons and fine chocolates for good night. In addition to them, there were also local cosmetics for care.
The most beautiful part of the room was, of course, the terrace. From it, I watched the city wake up every morning. With a cup of coffee and a view of the street, the day started right. The bathroom was decorated with a refined mosaic in warm tones. Every detail exuded attention and good taste. I felt at home in this room, only with the addition of opulence.
Hotel Boscolo Nice & Spa: Lunch at the Angelo restaurant
One day during my stay in Nice I decided to have lunch at a hotel. Angelo is an Italian restaurant within Boscolo Nice Hotel. That meal remained in my unforgettable memory. To start, I ordered the truffle pizza. It arrived with mozzarella fior di latte and cherry tomatoes. The thin crust and the aroma of truffles won me over right away.
As the main course, I chose beef fillet tagliatelle. It is Charolais meat, perfectly short-roasted. It was served with parmesan cheese and fresh salad. Finally, I couldn’t resist the tiramisu. It was decorated with fresh berries. I admit, I still think about that dessert today.
I enjoyed the signature Angelo cocktail with the meal. Everything arrived on beautiful wooden tables. The plates were hand painted, real small works of art. The whole lunch was pure Mediterranean delight. The combination of Italian cuisine and attentive service seemed flawless. That’s why I highly recommend Restaurant Angelo to every guest.
NICE TRAVEL GUIDE: PRACTICAL TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
Before departure, it is worth knowing a few useful things. These tips will make your stay easier and save you valuable time. It’s the little things that make a big difference. The best time to visit is spring or early autumn. Then the temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds are significantly less. Summer, on the other hand, brings heat and lots of tourists.
The easiest way to get around the city is on foot or by tram. The center is compact, so all sights are close. A tram line connects the airport with the heart of the city. Choose your shoes carefully. Namely, the streets of the Old Town are paved with cobblestones. Comfortable sneakers will be your best companion.
For the beach, bring water slippers. Since the beaches are rocky, pebbles can be uncomfortable. With slippers you will enter the sea much easier. Do not miss to try the local dishes. Juice and niçoise salad are real little discoveries. The Cours Saleya market is the ideal place for a first bite.
Drink water freely from the tap. The water in Nice is completely safe and tasty. This will save you money and reduce waste. Finally, leave time for rest. Nice is not a city to visit in a hurry, but rather a leisurely walk. Sit on the shore, breathe in the sea air and simply enjoy your Mediterranean experience.
WHY DO MILLIONS OF TOURISTS RETURN TO NICE YEAR AFTER YEAR?
After a few days in Nice, I left with a heavy heart. The city won me over again with its beauty and relaxed rhythm. He left me wanting to come back one day. Nice is a city with many faces. In the morning it is a quiet coastal town, and in the evening it is a glittering metropolis. It combines Italian charm and French elegance in a unique way.
Everyone finds something for themselves here. History lovers walk through the Old Town and see the churches. Those looking for rest, however, lie in the sun by the sea. Sea, sun and colors remain the strongest memory. The turquoise bay and ocher facades are hard to forget. That is precisely why Nice is the pearl of the Côte d’Azur.
I hope that today’s travelogue has captured the beauty of the city and provided you with some useful basic information for your vacation. Maybe she will be the reason for your next trip to Nice. Because Nice, believe me, is not just a city. It is a true Mediterranean paradise.
Feel free to leave your impressions, comments or questions below the text or contact me via email and social networks. All information is available on the CONTACT page.
I will definitely come back again, because this city just finds a way to your heart!
With Love from Nice,
Mr.M
This post is sponsored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the Hotel Boscolo Nice & Spa hotel, as well as other local partners who selflessly supported this project. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.