‘Nissa La Bella,’ the city of Angels and capital of the French Riviera, is also the perfect starting point for a French Riviera escape, and we are sure it will only take 2 days in Nice for you to fall in love with it!
Here's how we would spend two wonderful days in Nice.
Day 1
Start your day with a delicious breakfast of pastries from a nearby boulangerie they are on practically every street corner!
First up, the Promenade des Anglais. This is the jewel of Nice, it’s the spot everyone thinks of when you mention the city – you have to start here. You may want to finish here too! The sunsets here are stunning.
When you reach Old Town, leave the Promenade des Anglais and explore the old city. Nice has a great European Mediterranean old town, colourful buildings lining narrow streets, delicious restaurants, and interesting shops everywhere.
Don’t miss Place Rossetti, a beautiful square in the middle of Old Town. The Cathédrale Sainte-Reparate de Nice faces the square (pop in for a quick visit, it’s a beautiful building), and then enjoy lunch at one of the cafés lining the square. For dessert, gelato has to be sampled and then make your way up Castle Hill for stunning views.
After exploring Castle Hill, head back down to the city via the Port side of the hill, follow the paths until you pick up Mnt Montfort and walk back down into the Port of Nice. This port is a lively and interesting place to walk around, looking at the boats and yachts that are moored there.
Nice also has a thriving nightlife just waiting to be discovered, there is plenty to do when the sun goes down!
Day 2
The Jardin Albert I tucks itself along the line separating the Old Town from the new town, starting at the Promenade des Anglais and heading north for several blocks.
Then on to Place Massena This square is an iconic area of Nice, with its distinctive red buildings with white arches on their street levels and the black and white checkerboard flooring. On the far side of the Place is the imposing Fountain of the Sun, featuring a statue of Apollo in the middle.
The Marché aux Fleurs is an outdoor flower and produce market on the Cours Saleya in Old Town. This market is open from 6 am-5:30 pm every day except Sunday and features a variety of food and produce, in addition to beautiful fresh flowers. Enjoy lunch here and shop for souvenirs.
Once refuelled, it's on to Notre Dame de l’Assomption Basilica. Smaller than, but reminiscent of, the world-famous Notre Dame in Paris, the Notre Dame de l’Assomption of Nice is still an impressive and intricate basilica. The church is about a 15-minute walk north of the Promenade. Conversely, a tram runs north and south along Avenue Jean Medecin, if you need a break from walking.
In the afternoon enjoy time on the beach, make sure you have beach shoes as they are pebbly.
Make your last night in Nice count. From romantic drinks under the stars to live music at a trendy club, you’re sure to find something to spark your interest. Maybe evening at the opera? or simply relax with a glass of wine.
