One of the most beautiful cities in France, Nice is known for its many attractions. The most popular is probably the stunning shoreline which brings in travelers from around the world. However, this is only the start of what is a complete experience for those looking to delve into French culture, art, food, and the many activities this city offers to tourists just like you.
Nice is located on the southeast coast of France along the Mediterranean Sea and it enjoys a long, rich history. For the traveler, Nice is a great place to visit for many reasons, here are a few that you should consider when visiting this marvelous city.
Cathedral
The Cathedral of Nice is located in the old Vieille Ville section of the city. This is a great place to start your tour of Nice thanks to its towering, patterned dome and lavish interior. What may be most striking is the design of the cathedral itself, which is something you are more likely to see in Italy or Spain. Constructed in the 17th century, this baroque design features ten ornate chapels that feature many paintings, gilding, and sculptures. This is a great meeting place if you are traveling in a group and a wonderful way to start your tour of Nice.
Cours Saleya Market
Located in the old quarter of Nice, this is a beautiful flower and fresh produce market which is open six days a week. Every Monday, the flea market takes over the area, providing many interesting items and souvenirs for your trip. If you are staying nearby, then this market is perfect as you can snack on delicious fresh fruit and have flowers for your table. It is best to visit this location when it opens early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Eating
There are plenty of treats to try in Nice, starting with the local cuisine that is definitely French, but adds a little Italian spice to the mix. No trip to Nice is complete without trying the Salade Nicoise, which combines natural foods like green beans, tomatoes, anchovies, a hard-boiled egg, and calletier olives. You can wash it down with a Bellet white wine or the rose wines of Bandol.
Socca is a popular street-food that is a combination of pancake and flatbread made with chickpea flower and sold by vendors in the old quarter of the city. Fougasse break, Daube Nicoise, and onion tart are popular favorites as well. However, you should try the Ratatouille, which is a delicious vegetable stew complete with peppers, tomatoes, aubergine, and courgettes.
Musee Massena
Located along the Promenade des Anglais, this museum was donated to the city of Nice in 1919 and offers plenty of history and beauty on its grounds. There is a stunning collection of 19th century French art that highlights your visit. If you want to see the inside of a Belle Epoque mansion, this is your chance as it offers insight into how the well-to-do lived in the 18th and 19th centuries in Nice. You’ll also find some curiosities, such as the tiara worn by Empress Josephine and the death mask of Napoleon.
Musee Marc Chagall
The works of Chagall are some of the most recognizable and beautiful pieces of art in the world. This museum which is dedicated to his works was designed by Chagall himself, which includes the layout of the gardens, the designs of the stained-glass in the windows of the concert hall, and the inclusion of original paintings that Chagall was most proud. There are 17 paintings by Chagall that cover events found in the Old Testament and New Testament. Plus, you can find many of his works that were painted before and after World War II which bring to life the trials and tribulations of the people of France.
Parc de la Collline du Chateau
This is a park located atop a steep hill that provides an incredible view of the Mediterranean Sea. you can also see some of the most impressive architecture of Nice from this location, including the Baie des Anges. This is an incredible location and a must-visit park that offers a beautiful setting to see some incredible locations. If you are fit and like a challenge, then walking to the top of the park can be done, although the summer heat might be a bit much. For everyone else, there is the free elevator that makes it easy to reach the top.
Promenade des Anglais
The view of the Mediterranean Sea is arguably the main attraction that Nice offers and the best view comes from this grand walkway that attracts thousands of people each day. Do not worry about the Promenade des Anglais being overcrowded as it is over one mile long and wide enough for plenty of room to see the coastal shoreline, the beautiful palaces, and the many different residents and tourists like you walking, jogging, and riding skateboards or their bicycles along this walkway.
Built in the 1820s, the best time of the year to visit is in February when the Nice Carnival takes up part of the promenade. However, you can visit anytime of the year and still be amazed at the incredible view.
Vieille Ville
A mishmash of local shots, restaurants, and storefronts, this is the oldest part of the city and it retains much of its charm. The old world feel is apparent as you walk along the winding, narrow streets dominated by the Colline du Chateau which is on the east side. One interesting aspect of this location is the strong Italian feel to the architecture. This should not be surprising as Nice was not considered French territory until 1860. The area itself is bustling with activity and makes for a perfect place to visit for the afternoon.
If you are planning a trip to France, Nice should be one of your first destinations. The beautiful climate of the Mediterranean Sea combined with the stunning natural locations and man-made structures make this one of the best places to visit.
Very strange: the top photograph of this article is not a photo of Nice, France!
I double checked and pretty sure that its Nice, France