Top 8 Experiences in Nice, France: Food, Culture & Riviera Charm

Set along the sparkling Mediterranean and backed by the hills of Provence, Nice is a city that blends French elegance with Italian charm. Known as the capital of the Côte d’Azur, it’s a place where seaside strolls, vibrant markets, and art-filled afternoons are part of daily life. Visitors are drawn to its year-round sunshine, colorful Old Town, and flavorful Niçoise cuisine.

Whether you’re here for a pre- or post-cruise stay or a longer holiday, there’s no shortage of memorable things to see and do. From historic landmarks to hidden local favorites, here are the top experiences that capture the best of Nice.

Stroll the Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is Nice’s most famous landmark — a 7-kilometre seafront path stretching from the airport to the Quai des États-Unis. Built in the early 19th century with funding from wealthy English residents (hence the name), it remains a favorite for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Along the way, you’ll pass grand Belle Époque hotels like the iconic Negresco, palm-lined gardens, and open-air cafés where you can pause for a coffee with a sea view.

For a relaxed experience, start near the Old Town and head west, stopping at public benches or the beach. Early mornings are calm, while evenings are perfect for watching the sunset over the Bay of Angels.

Explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Vieux Nice is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and lively markets. Its Italian influence is clear in the pastel-colored facades, shuttered windows, and bustling piazzas. The heart of the Old Town is the Cours Saleya Market, where stalls overflow with fresh flowers, seasonal produce, herbs, and local specialties like socca — a thin chickpea pancake served hot and lightly salted.

Insider Tip: On Mondays, the market transforms into an antiques fair with vintage silverware, ceramics, and artwork. To experience a true Niçoise treat, stop by Pâtisserie Auer, in business since 1820, famous for its jewel-like candied fruits and chocolates.

Take in the Views from Castle Hill

Colline du Château (Castle Hill) is one of the best spots for panoramic views over Nice. Once home to a medieval fortress dismantled in the 18th century, the hill is now a public park with landscaped gardens, shady walking paths, and a man-made waterfall. From the top, you’ll have sweeping views of the Old Town, the harbor, and the deep-blue Mediterranean.

You can walk up via staircases from both the Promenade des Anglais and the port side, or take the free public elevator near the Old Town.

Pro Tip: Visit just before sunset for the best light. Many locals bring a small bottle of rosé and snacks for an informal evening picnic with a view.

Visit the Museums and Gardens

Nice has long been a magnet for artists, and its museums showcase that rich history. The Marc Chagall National Museum houses the largest public collection of the artist’s works, including his colorful biblical series. The Matisse Museum, located in a 17th-century Genoese villa, displays paintings, sculptures, and personal objects that trace the artist’s long relationship with the city.

Just a short walk from the Matisse Museum are the Cimiez Monastery Gardens. These quiet, free-to-enter gardens are filled with rose beds, olive trees, and panoramic views of Nice. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the city.

Discover Hidden Corners of the City

Beyond the main sights, Nice offers quieter neighborhoods and unique historical sites. In Cimiez, you’ll find Roman ruins — including an amphitheater and bath complex — alongside the Archaeological Museum. In Port Lympia, brightly painted fishermen’s houses and moored fishing boats give the area a traditional charm. These neighborhoods are perfect for a relaxed afternoon of wandering, photography, and café stops.

Enjoy Niçoise Cuisine

Nice’s cuisine reflects its location on the Mediterranean and its history of cultural influences. Classic dishes include:

• Salade niçoise — tuna, hard-boiled eggs, olives, tomatoes, and anchovies

• Pissaladière — a caramelized onion tart topped with anchovies and olives

• Pan bagnat — essentially salade niçoise served inside crusty bread

• Socca — a thin chickpea pancake cooked in a wood-fired oven

Insider Tip: Chez Pipo is a local favorite for socca, baked until crisp at the edges and soft inside. In the cooler months, look for stockfish, a slow-cooked cod dish rarely served outside this region.

Experience the Nice Jazz Festival

Since 1948, the Nice Jazz Festival has been a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. Held every July, it attracts top international and French musicians, with performances ranging from classic jazz to blues, funk, and world music. The main stages are set in the open air, and the atmosphere spreads throughout the city.

Insider Tip: Even without festival tickets, you can enjoy the music scene during this week. Many artists perform impromptu late-night sets in Old Town venues like Shapko, known for its intimate, high-energy shows.

Take a Day Trip Along the Riviera

Nice is a perfect base for exploring the French Riviera. By train or bus, you can reach:

• Monaco — famous for its luxury yachts, casinos, and the Prince’s Palace

• Antibes — home to the Picasso Museum, sandy beaches, and historic ramparts

• Villefranche-sur-Mer — a picturesque fishing village with a deep natural harbor

If you’re visiting Nice on a cruise, there’s a good chance your ship will anchor in Villefranche-sur-Mer, which serves as the main cruise gateway to the city. From here, it’s only a 20-minute train or bus ride to central Nice. Some small-ship itineraries even start or end in Nice.

Nice offers a mix of history, culture, and seaside beauty that appeals to every type of traveler. Whether you’re strolling along the Promenade, exploring vibrant markets, or savoring fresh Mediterranean flavors, the city delivers a memorable experience year-round. Ready to explore the French Riviera?