Nice

1. Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is one of the most famous seafront stretches in all of France. The paved promenade spans over four kilometers and is a popular place for cyclists, skateboarders, roller skaters, segways, and those on scooters to spend an evening; if you don’t bring one yourself, you can rent one from the Roller Station located there. Going on a walking tour of Promenade des Anglais is one of the best ways to really see all of its iconic landmarks such as the giant iron sculpture La Chaise de SAB or the art-deco Palais de la Mediterranee.

2. Place Massena

Named after French military commander, Andre Massena, Place Massena is one of the most historic public squares in all of Nice. On any given day, you’ll be taken aback by the square which is lined with stone pines and palm trees. There are several public events held there throughout the year, many of which attract crowds from around the world. You’ll find military processions, musical concerts, performances, parades, carnivals, banquets, and other celebrations which are fun for the entire family. One of the most famous is the corso carnavalesque which is an annual carnival and parade usually held in February.

3. Parc des Arenes de Cimiez

One of Nice’s many historical monuments, the Parc des Arenes de Cimiez comprises the remains of a Roman amphitheater. It was originally constructed to entertain the people of the city with games. You can still see the visible anchor points of the velum which was added at one point. The amphitheater, which has been renovated several times over the years, continued to serve its original purpose for many years after as it was home to the annual Nice Jazz Festival. Though the festival is no longer held there, the amphitheater is still such a wonderful historical site to see when in Nice.

4. Old Town

Locally known as Vieux Nice, the Old Town of Nice is one of the must-visit attraction when traveling there. In addition to the array of historical sites and structures you can see, you’ll also be able to take part in the never-ending buzz of activity that’s always taking place there. Immerse yourself in the baroque Mediterranean vibe of the surroundings; you can go on a walking tour to get an in-depth understand of the history and culture that surrounds you, visit the many boutique shops which line the streets, or indulge in local cuisine in one of the many cafes and restaurants found in Old Town.

5. Parc de la Colline du Chateau

Parc de la Colline du Chateau , also known as Castle Hill, is now a historic hilltop park from which visitors will be able to see panoramic vistas of the city. At one point, there was actually a castle up there though now all people will be able to see are the ruins. The lush green park is high up and catches a great breeze from the Bay of Nice - making it perfect for picnics and to just spend some time outdoors. There are several walking paths where you can enjoy the scenery, take in the sunset, and even get some exercise.

6. Flower Market

The Flower Market in Nice is considered to be one of the most beautiful and special markets in all of France by the National Council for the Culinary Arts. Just walking through the rows of colorful flowers and plants will put you in an amazing mood. There are hundreds of different flowers available at the market such as dahlias, fuchsias, geraniums, and much more. Breathe in the fragrances, have a chat with the florists and horticulturists, and take your pick of beautiful bouquets to take back with you. In addition to the flowers, the popular open-air market also has fresh local foods, produce, and much more.

Address: Cours Saleya, 06300 Nice, France, Phone: +33-4-92-14-48-00

7. Place Garibaldi

Having many names in the past such as Place de la Republique and Place Napoleon, Place Garibaldi is a famed public space that is now named after Italian nationalist Giuseppe Garibaldi. The square was built toward the end of the 18th century and was once considered the entry gate to the city. Today, visitors will be able to see a statue of Garibaldi in the middle of the square. It’s also a great place to slip into one of the many roadside cafes and restaurants to have a drink or meal with friends or as you people watch.

8. Musee des Beaux Arts de Nice

Housing a collection of art that spans centuries, the Musee des Beaux Arts de Nice is a favored attraction among tourists. The museum, which wasn’t established until 1928, is housed in a private mansion which was built by a Russian princess in 1878. It was initially named after Jules Cheret, an artist who lived in Nice during his final years and whose many paintings can be seen in the museum today. Some of the other interesting pieces you’ll see include ceramic works by Picasso, sculptures by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, and paintings by Claude Monet and Raoul Dufy.

Address: 33 Avenue des Baumettes, 06000 Nice, France