Nice travel guide

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Introduction to Nice

Nice is a destination known for attractions like Castle Hill, Jardin Albert 1er, and Place Masséna. Travelers who visit this city and commune in Alpes-Maritimes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this city in France on foot and walk alongside the over 343.5 thousand locals who live in Nice. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

Easily accessible from Nice Côte d Azur International airport, Nice is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in France any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Nice as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Nice is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Nice below!

History of Nice

The city of Nice, nestled on the French Riviera, boasts a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times.

Evidence of human settlement in Nice date back nearly 400,000 years, making it one of the oldest inhabited regions in the world. The Greeks of Massalia (modern-day Marseille) founded the city around 350 BC and named it Nikaia, in honor of a victory over the neighboring Ligurians.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Nice was a city-state under the protection of the Counts of Provence, before becoming part of the Duchy of Savoy in the late 14th century. The city was heavily contested between France and Italy for centuries, finally becoming a part of France in 1860.

The 19th century saw Nice become a popular winter resort for the British aristocracy, leading to its reputation as a tourist hotspot. Today, Nice continues to captivate visitors with its stunning landscapes, charming old town, and rich history.

Top services in Nice

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Nice, France. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 364 airlines that fly to France. Browse the 429 top-rated tours available to you in Nice. Compare the rates and services of the 6 types of places to stay in Nice and the 11 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Nice.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Nice, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Nice on your vacation in France.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Nice from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Nice!

Best time to visit Nice

The best time to explore Nice, France is typically in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm and the city is less crowded, providing a more relaxed and intimate experience. Spring is particularly delightful as it coincides with the blooming season, painting the city in vibrant colours. The Nice Carnival, one of the world's major carnival events, takes place in late February, and if you can brave the slightly cooler temperatures, it promises a spectacular cultural experience. Summer (July and August) is also an option, when the weather is hot and sunny, perfect for beach lovers, but it is also the peak tourist season, resulting in crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices. No matter when you decide to visit, Nice’s Mediterranean climate ensures plenty of sunshine. Therefore, the best time to visit Nice largely depends on your personal preferences and interests.

Weather in Nice

Nice, located on the French Riviera, is known for its mild Mediterranean climate. Its summers are hot and dry, with average temperatures from June to August in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (25-28°C), accompanied by long hours of sunshine. The sea breezes help to keep the heat manageable. Rainfall is uncommon in the summer.

Winters in Nice are mild and slightly rainy, with temperatures from December to February averaging in the low to mid 50s Fahrenheit (10-12°C). Snow is very rare, making Nice a popular winter escape. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with comfortable temperatures and moderate rainfall.

Given the sunny climate, sunscreen is a must year-round. Even in winter, the sun can be strong, particularly for those not used to Mediterranean sun. The city's temperate climate means that there's rarely a bad time to visit, but those sensitive to heat may wish to avoid the peak of summer.

Local tip for visiting Nice

Here's an insider tip that could significantly enhance your experience in Nice, France. While many visitors flock to the famous Promenade des Anglais, locals suggest exploring the lesser-known but equally charming neighborhood of Le Port. Le Port, or the Harbor, is a vibrant area filled with colorful buildings, local restaurants, and quaint antique shops. Walking around the port, you will find an authentic slice of life in Nice away from the tourist crowds. It's also the place to try a local dish called 'Socca', a chickpea pancake enjoyed by the locals. Remember to visit in the morning or late afternoon, when the neighborhood is at its liveliest. This insider tip will give you a unique and authentic Nice experience, providing a valuable insight into the local culture and way of life.

Learn more about France

There are many reasons to visit the city of Nice, but a trip to France needs no explanation.

Exploring France, which spans 643,801 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. France offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Castle Hill, Jardin Albert 1er, and the Place Masséna, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in France.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about France.

What to see in Nice

Photo of French Riviera coast with medieval town Villefranche sur Mer, Nice region, France.

Nice has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Nice.

Top attractions in Nice

Home to plenty of top attractions, Nice is more than just a wonderful city in France. Nice is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of France.

One fascinating sight in Nice is the unforgettable Castle Hill. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Nice. This remarkable attraction is located at 06300 Nice, France and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:30-18:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in France, check out our list of top attractions in Nice below. Discover the best places to visit in Nice, including the fascinating Castle Hill, Jardin Albert 1er, Place Masséna, Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice, and Marc Chagall National Museum.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Nice.

Things to do in Nice

Photo of panoramic aerial view city of Nice, France.

Enrich your travel experience in Nice by joining tours and activities. Nice offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Nice below.

Most popular experiences in Nice

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Nice.

Nice offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Bus Tours, Historical Tours, and Guided Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in France.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Nice by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Nice

Travelers in Nice can choose from 19 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Shore Excursions is the answer.

The most popular tour in Nice is the fantastic The Highlights of the Côte d'Azur with Tour Company recommended by Rick Steves. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Nice one of the best travel destinations in France.

Nice also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Nice Self-Guided Audio Tour is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 5 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Nice. This Historical Tour is available in 9 languages: German, Portuguese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, and Japanese. Around 1 traveler have given this activity an average rating of 2 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Nice and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Nice below.

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Discover the best things to do in Nice. Choose from 429 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Nice. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Nice

Nice, France, is a gastronomic haven, steeped in a rich culinary tradition that is a blend of French and Italian influences. The best places to eat in Nice span from the vibrant street food scenes in Cours Saleya market to high-end dining establishments in the Old Town. Here, you can savor local delicacies like 'Socca', a chickpea pancake, and 'Salade Niçoise', a refreshing salad made with fresh Mediterranean ingredients. For seafood lovers, 'Pissaladière', a tart topped with onions, olives, and anchovies, is a must-try. Seek out family-run restaurants or 'bistros' to experience authentic Niçois cuisine. Local dining customs encourage leisurely meals, so take your time to appreciate the flavors. Consider pairing your meals with local wines, like Bellet, to further enhance your dining experience. Nice boasts a lively café culture too, perfect for an afternoon 'café au lait' or a scoop of artisanal gelato. Remember, dining in Nice is not just about the food, but also the ambience, so choose outdoor seating to enjoy the city's picturesque views.

Best shopping in Nice

Nice, a city of glamour and sunshine, offers a unique shopping experience that seamlessly merges the traditional with the contemporary. The best place to go shopping in Nice is undoubtedly the Avenue Jean Médecin, a bustling thoroughfare lined with a variety of shops and the Nice Etoile shopping center. Here, you can find everything from high-street fashion to local craftsmanship. Nice's distinct fashion, which is a blend of French chic and Mediterranean vibrance, is in full display at the Masséna Square boutiques. For a taste of local flavour, head to the Cours Saleya Market. This vibrant open-air market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, flowers, antiques, and local crafts. Don't leave without buying a bottle of locally produced olive oil or a bar of pure Provencal soap as a souvenir. For lovers of antiques and vintage, the Port of Nice Antique Market is a must-visit. Remember, Saturday is the best day for antique shopping, while Tuesday to Sunday are best for general shopping. Enjoy the unique blend of glamour and tradition that makes shopping in Nice a truly unforgettable experience.

Best free things to do in Nice

When it comes to experiencing the best free things to do in Nice, France, there's a wealth of options that won't cost you a cent. Start with a stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, where turquoise waters meet pebbled shores, creating a magnificent backdrop for photos or leisurely walks. Venture up to Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau), where you can enjoy panoramic views of Nice's coastline and its terracotta-roofed cityscape. It's a beautiful spot for a picnic or just to breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air. For art enthusiasts, the Matisse Museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of every month, showcasing the works of Henri Matisse, a famous artist who called Nice home. Explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice), a vibrant neighbourhood brimming with history, colourful buildings, and bustling markets. Here, you can also visit the Nice Cathedral without any charge. Finally, don't miss the Cimiez Monastery and its surrounding gardens, where you can delve into Nice's ancient history while enjoying a peaceful retreat. With this guide, you're set to enjoy a fulfilling journey in Nice without loosening the purse strings.

Vacation packages in Nice

Photo of Nice, France by Charlottees

The best and easiest way to visit Nice is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in France.

Booking a vacation package to Nice means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Nice to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Nice is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 141 unique vacation packages to Nice, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Nice.

Popular types of vacations in Nice

The most popular way to experience Nice is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in France. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Nice on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in France, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across France, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Nice, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Nice below.

Top vacation packages in Nice

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in France. In fact, you can choose from as many as 141 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Nice, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of France.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Nice.

For an epic vacation, discover Nice and other top destinations in France on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day France Beach Holiday in Nice. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Nice, but also in other top places to visit in France. If Promenade du Paillon, Lympia Gallery (Old Steam), Phare de Nice, Fontaine du Soleil, and Place Masséna are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Nice, book the popular Cheap 3-Day France City Break in Nice and spend as little as 278 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Nice, including the fantastic Place Masséna, Castle Hill, Fontaine du Soleil, Jardin Albert 1er, and Marc Chagall National Museum.

Get more Nice vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in France that match your needs and budget.

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Discover and compare 141 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Nice.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Nice get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in France. Your customized holiday package to Nice is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Nice

To get to the city of Nice the fastest way possible, travelers from outside France can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Nice by booking flights with any of the 71 airlines that offer direct flights to Nice Côte d Azur International airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Nice Côte d Azur International airport are United Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, Air China, and Turkish Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Nice.

To reach the city of Nice, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Nice Côte d Azur International airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Nice, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Nice Côte d Azur International airport and Nice below.

Find cheap flights to Nice

Photo of woman enjoying amazing view in Nice ,France.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Nice, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in France. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Nice, France, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Nice costs around 16 EUR and is offered by the airline Vueling. The flight leaves on October 9 at 2 and departs from Barcelona–El Prat airport in Barcelona, Spain.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Nice cost approximately 65 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on November 17 and the return flight is scheduled on November 20. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Figari–Sud Corse.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to France and the city of Nice from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Nice

Travelers visiting Nice in France can fly to Nice Côte d Azur International airport directly from 1922 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Nice Côte d Azur International airport and the city of Nice in France depart from Nice Côte d Azur International airport in Nice, France, Albany airport in Albany, Australia, and Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica.

Travelers can fly to France by choosing from from 2 weekly flight(s) from Nice; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; and from 3 weekly flight(s) from Kingston.

The airline that operates most flights to France is Cambodia Angkor Air. Cambodia Angkor Air offers 1 scheduled flight routes to France.

Discover the most popular flights to Nice below. Click to view flights to Nice, France from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Nice

Photo of Nice colorful street architecture and church view, tourist destination of French riviera.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Nice is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Nice usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Nice offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Nice and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Nice planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Nice, you'll find 6 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Nice. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Nice.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Nice in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Nice

A trip to the fascinating Nice, France, means opportunities to relax at any of the 6 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 1396 vacation rental apartments, 476 hotels, 46 cottages, 5 bed & breakfasts, 1 guesthouse and 1 hostel. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Nice provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, ibis budget Nice Aeroport is one of the top picks of travelers in Nice.

The hotel is located at 455, Promenade Des Anglais and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Free Wi-Fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Nice. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Nice, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel. For approximately 14 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 6 different types of places to stay in Nice. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Nice

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Nice for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 1,926 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Nice provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Nice are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Nice.

Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mediterranee offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Nice. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Westminster Hotel & Spa, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Nice, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Holiday Inn Express Nice Grand Arenas, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Nice. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Nice on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Nice that match the information provided.

Car rental in Nice

Photo of scenic view of waterfall of Castle Hill in Nice. Cote d'Azur, France.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Nice. Nice has 11 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Nice start from 38.99 EUR per day or 272.92 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500 (Electric).

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Nice, starting from 20.99 EUR per day or 146.96 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Nice, France, below.

Popular types of car rental in Nice

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Nice to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Nice can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore France at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Nice is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Nice is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Nice.

Check out all options available in Nice and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in France below.

Search for car rental in Nice

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Nice. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Nice, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Nice

Photo of French Riviera, of beautiful young woman enjoying the cityscape of Nice, France.

The city of Nice is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

France is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Nice. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Nice

Photo of Nice, France by Lars_Nissen

A taste of France through a visit to Nice can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Nice to another remarkable destination in France.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Nice to other spectacular locations in France, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Nice

Travelers in France can catch flights to domestic airports in Perpignan, Pau, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Nantes, Montpellier, and Marseille. Domestic flights in France are operated by 10 airlines: easyJet, Volotea, Air France, Air Corsica, and Ryanair. There are around 41 scheduled flight routes operating to Nice on a weekly basis.

From Nice, travelers can book scheduled flights to 29 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Nice depart to many top-rated destinations in France and are offered by easyJet, Volotea, and Air France.

Search domestic flights from Nice

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Nice to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

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