The charming Nice, always dressed in the sunshine, is one of the big cities on the French Riviera. It's an incredibly popular destination for holidaymakers of all ages as it’s able to offer something to pretty much everyone. It is particularly known for the beautiful views on the Promenade des Anglais, its waterfront as well as a multicultural vibe. Nice manages to balance the real-city grit, grandeur, and classicism of the past as well as dynamic culture and street life. It's hard to e disappointed by the things to do in Nice!
Its origins can be traced to the Gallo-Roman ruins of Cimiez located in the hills up the boulevard of Cimiez from downtown Nice. Cimiez also has a monastery and several museums. However, today, most of its inhabitants live much closer to sea level. Interestingly, in the past, Nice actually formed part of the Italian Duchy of Savoia and later the Kingdom of Sardinia. It became part of France only in 1860 as a result of a rigged ballot, very much against the will of the population.
Hence, Nice is the perfect place for lovers of both French and Italian cultures. To this day, the Italian influence is palpable all around the city. You can enjoy the Italian vibes in the old city center peppered with tall-shuttered, ochre-colored buildings as if brought in straight from Portofino; in the form of specialized fresh pasta shops on almost every corner.
The Sun and the Sea
Nonetheless, before anything else, Nice is all about the Mediterranean climate and the sea. These two aspects made Nice a top tourist destination in the 1700s, long before tourism became a thing. As you stroll along the waterfront, you will be soaking in the same views that attracted European aristocrats during the belle-époque. Nothing quite compares to days spent on the beach, relaxing and people watching. Although the beaches in Nice are mainly pebbles that don’t stop people from enjoying swimming in the clear blue waters. So, if you are heading to the beach, make sure to bring sandals along with your towel or mat. In any case, whether you're busy skating, swimming, kayaking, suntanning on a beach lounger or taken by the sunset over the Med, leisure in Nice happens by the water.
Nice & Artists
Nice’s views, landscapes, and the light didn’t just charm the European aristocrats but also many artists. For instance, Henri Matisse came here to recover from severe bronchitis and ended up falling in love with Nice so deeply; he lived here for 37 years. Other great artists such as Picasso and Renoir also had a soft spot for Nice which later became home of the influential avant-garde École de Nice. If you are interested in art, peek inside the Museum Matisse, Museum Chagall, and Museum of Modern Art.
Niçois Cuisine
If you are still looking for things to do in Nice, turn your attention to food. Bann diets from the realms of your mind and indulge to your heart’s content. For an exceptional culinary experience, come down to the Vieux Nice’s Saleya market. Here, the small farmers and producers from the foothills of the Alps sell their incredible fresh produce. You will find top chefs from local restaurants rubbing shoulders with tourists, shopping for the best of the best. To get an authentic taste of the city try local specialties like socca (chickpea pancakes sold as street snacks) air the tasty pissaladière (caramelized onion tart). Countless local bistros serving local delicacies are ready to welcome and pamper you.
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