Welcome to Nice, the jewel of the French Riviera and most importantly my hometown!
As a local, I'm thrilled to guide you through the best 72-hour journey in this colorful and vibrant town. This guide combines hidden gems and popular spots to ensure an unforgettable experience that will make you want more.
In this article:
When is the best time to visit Nice?
Spring and early fall are the sweet spots for visiting Nice. You’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and the city's charm without the peak season rush.
Pro Tip: The only time to avoid at all costs in spring is during the Cannes Film Festival (dates vary every year but usually early May). This world-famous event attacks celebrities, influencers and thousands of cinema fans, which makes prices of accommodation and flight skyrocket. If all that was not enough, it is famous among locals that it always rains during the festival, so spare yourself and come either before or later.
72 Hours Itinerary
Day 1 | Old Town, Great Views and Culture
Morning:
Wake up to a delicious traditional French breakfast made of baguette, butter, jam and pastries. No problem at all if breakfast is not included in your accommodation, the city is full of great bakeries and trendy brunch spots you can explore.
Make your way to the Old Town and take the time to stroll around the narrow and colorful streets filled with small shops and traditional restaurants. You can book a tour of the Old Town here.
Do not miss the famous produce and flower market on the Cours Saleya, you can buy yourself some olives or 'lupins' to snack on while you take in the smells and the great variety of vegetables, fruits, salamis, and cheeses.
If you fancy a bigger snack, make sure to head to Lou Pilha Leva or Rene Socca to try the MUST-TRY street food of Nice: Socca.
Lunch:
Discover traditional 'Nissarde' (meaning from Nice in local dialect) food in one of the following restaurants:
Afternoon:
Re-energized, you can go up Castle Hill for a breathtaking view of the Promenade des Anglais (Walkway of the English). Come down the opposite way to find the beautiful Place Garibaldi and the colorful port of Nice.
Pro Tip: In the summer months you can cross the harbor using a traditional colorful wooden boat called 'pointu' every day from 10AM to 7PM (find information in French here).
Make your way down to Avenue Jean Medecin where you can do some shopping before you go for a walk along the Mediterranean bay, and indulge in a delicious gelato.
Head to the Matisse Museum by Bus home to one of the most impressive collections of Henri Matisse's works, offering insights into the artist's evolution and his strong ties to the French Riviera
Dinner:
Nice used to be part of Italy and is still today home to some great Italian restaurants, some of my personal favorites are Babbo Mio, Carmela or Illia Pasta.
Day 2 | Beautiful Gardens, Coastal Roads and Delicious Seafood
Day 3 | Brunch, Old Villages and Scenic Walk
What to Eat?
SOCCA
Socca, a savory crêpe made from chickpea flour, olive oil, water, and a sprinkle of salt, is a Niçoise specialty that pairs perfectly with Rosé wine. The simplicity of its ingredients baked in a traditional Pizza oven makes it the best snack for any time of day. Vendors make them all day long, so you will always have a fresh one.
Bonus for travelers on a budget: a portion will make you quite full and will cost you less than 4 euros.
PETITS FARCIS
This is a dish of baked vegetables (like peppers, eggplants, zucchinis, and onions) stuffed with minced veal and beef, bread crumbs, and sometimes topped with Parmesan cheese. It's a light and refreshing meal typically enjoyed in spring and summer. The authenticity of this dish in Nice, often found in family-run establishments in the Vieux Nice, makes it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Niçoise dining experience.
FRESH PASTA & RAVIOLI
The influence of Italian cuisine in Nice, due to its proximity to Italy, ensures that pasta dishes here are exceptional. Local ingredients and traditional recipes contribute to the rich and authentic flavors that you'll experience in the pasta dishes of Nice. You can find many fresh pasta stores in the Old Town where you can purchase them per kilo, so if you are on a budget and rented a flat it is the best option for you.
SEAFOOD
Given its location on the Mediterranean coast, Nice offers an array of fresh seafood. The freshness of the catch, combined with local culinary techniques, makes seafood dishes in Nice a delightful experience. A few local fish to try are red mullet fish (rouget), sea bass (loup, bar), and octopus (poulpe).
Where to Stay?
Mid-Range:
Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel: Located in the pedestrianized Old Town, this hotel offers stylish self-catering suites and apartments, combining sleek design with urban cool.
Villa Bougainville: This hotel offers a unique experience with its blend of French exterior and interior decorations inspired by travels around the world.
The Jay: This Art Deco hotel, named after the Great Gatsby, offers a 1920s vibe with a modern twist, just minutes from the beach.
Budget-Friendly:
Le Melsono Carré d'Or: Situated in the center of Nice, this apartment offers elegant rooms with great amenities like free WiFi and air conditioning, providing a local feel at a reasonable price.
La Casa Reine Jeanne: This property features air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private parking, offering a cozy and affordable stay.
Villa 3 Elephants: A private villa divided into three apartments, offering a sun terrace a bit outside of the city center making it a perfect budget choice for families and travelers with a car.
Hostels:
Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel: Known for its friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices, it's a great option for backpackers and budget travelers.
Hostel OZZ: 2 min walking distance from the central train station and 15 minutes walk from the beach, this modern hostel is a perfect starting point if you want to explore the region.
