Top things to see and do in Nice, Côte d'Azur

Nice Côte d’Azur is the capital of the French Riviera, located on the south-eastern coast of France, between the French Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. Nice is the fifth most populous city in France after Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Toulouse. It is very different to the rest of France and is surprising to think that a glamorous destination with azure blue seas, bright golden sunshine, pristine beaches, lush palm trees, and charming landscapes is only a two-hour flight from London! Continue reading to find out the top things to see and do in this stunning French Riviera city…

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Walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais

Promenade des Anglais is more than just an ordinary promenade – it is Nice’s most prominent icon, stretching for seven kilometres, and serves as a gateway to the Mediterranean Sea. It spans from Nice Airport in the west to the Port of Nice in the east and you simply cannot visit Nice without taking a stroll here and enjoying the sea breeze. There are many restaurants, bars and famous hotels along the promenade, with the most iconic being Le Negresco Hotel.

*Views of Promenade des Anglais, Nice, and the Mediterranean Sea from the top of Castle Hill*

*Palm trees reflection on Promenade des Anglais*

Admire panoramic views from Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Castle Hill is the highest point in the city, rising to 92 metres above sea level, and offers the best viewpoint in Nice. You can either hike to the top or take an elevator up, which is free to use. There is no longer a castle at the top of the hill though – this was destroyed by Louis XIV in 1706. Instead, there is now an impressive waterfall at the top, along with a park, and most importantly 360 degree views of the entire city!

See the Le Negresco Hotel

The historic Le Negresco Hotel is over 100 years old and boasts to be Nice’s most famous and unique icon. It is easily recognisable by its pastel-pink, stained-glass dome rooftop, and stands proudly on Promenade des Anglais.

Stroll through Vieille Ville

Vieille Ville, otherwise known as Nice’s historic district, is the oldest part of the city and contains hidden ancient beauty. It features meandering alleyways, cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, boutique shops and local restaurants, and multi-coloured apartment facades – perfect for exploring!

Visit the Port of Nice

The Port of Nice is located on the east side of the Promenade, adjacent to the Old Town. The best view of the harbour is from the top of Castle Hill, where you can admire the ordered anchoring of yachts and boats.

Check mate at Place Massena

Place Massena is the beating heart of Nice. It is the city’s bustling, main square located right in the centre of the city. It features chequered flooring and bright red and orange buildings, and the city’s trams also rumble along here. The perfectly synchronised black and white patterned tiles make for some pretty cool street photography…

*Glass ball photography at Place Massena*

Nice tram running through *Place Massena*

Roam around Cours Saleya

Cours Saleya is located at the end of Nice’s Old Town, and spans to the Promenade des Anglais. I stumbled across these stunning Cours Saleya arches, which when framed with the lush palm trees and the sea in the background, make for some great photographs!