Travel Guide: Nice

Nice sits on the French Riviera where the Mediterranean meets the foothills of the French Alps, offering a mix of coastal scenery and urban life. As the second-largest city on France’s Mediterranean coast, it acts as a regional hub with an airport that serves as a gateway to the area.

Selected by Anna
Selected by Anna · Updated March 2026

Best time to visit

Climate data shows the sunniest and warmest conditions occur from late spring through summer, with abundant sunshine and higher temperatures. Autumn brings noticeably more rainfall, while winter is cooler with moderate sunshine compared with the peak season.

Jan
8.9°C
Rain47 mm
Sun7.4 h
Feb
9.7°C
Rain75 mm
Sun8.3 h
Mar
11.5°C
Rain76 mm
Sun9.6 h
Apr
14.0°C
Rain63 mm
Sun11.0 h
May
17.5°C
Rain62 mm
Sun12.0 h
Jun
21.9°C
Rain43 mm
Sun13.7 h
Jul
25.0°C
Rain14 mm
Sun14.2 h
Aug
25.1°C
Rain23 mm
Sun12.7 h
Sep
21.5°C
Rain50 mm
Sun10.9 h
Oct
17.5°C
Rain131 mm
Sun8.6 h
Nov
13.0°C
Rain119 mm
Sun7.5 h
Dec
10.0°C
Rain75 mm
Sun7.3 h

Things to do

In Nice

  • Baie des Anges
    A renowned pebble beach with clear Mediterranean waters popular for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. Its accessibility from Nice makes it a favored spot for tourists and locals alike. Visitors looking for relaxation or seaside activities will find it appealing.
  • Old Town Nice
    The historic district showcases narrow streets filled with vibrant markets, baroque architecture, and landmarks. It’s a lively, atmospheric area particularly loved by visitors interested in local culture and history. Walking through the Old Town provides insight into Nice's traditional Mediterranean lifestyle and charm.
  • Promenade des Anglais
    This scenic beachfront promenade is ideal for walking, cycling, and people-watching along the Mediterranean coast. It suits travelers who enjoy sea views and a vibrant city atmosphere. The area is lively year-round with cultural events and street performances, making it a great starting point to explore Nice.
  • Castle Hill
    A popular elevated viewpoint featuring ruins and gardens, offering stunning views over Nice, its port, and the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks amid greenery while getting panoramic city vistas. This spot suits nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the beauty of Nice from above.
  • Marc Chagall National Museum
    The museum features an extensive collection of works by Marc Chagall, showcasing his biblical-themed paintings and stained glass. It suits art enthusiasts and those interested in modern religious art. Visitors appreciate the peaceful setting that complements the vibrant colors and symbolic imagery.

Around Nice

  • Gorges du Loup
    A scenic natural gorge featuring waterfalls and hiking paths, ideal for visitors who enjoy nature and outdoor adventure. The area offers numerous viewpoints and photo opportunities among rugged landscapes. It suits travelers looking to experience regional natural beauty outside the city.
Anna
How we pick hotels
For each category, we shortlist a few standout stays by combining review quality (score), review confidence (volume), and how well the hotel matches the theme (spa, family, lake views, and more).

Spa hotels

Suited to travelers seeking relaxation and wellness, with hotels that emphasize spa facilities and tranquil city settings.
Tip: check if spa access is included or paid, and opening hours/booking rules.

Family-friendly hotels

Suited to families looking for convenient access to beaches, promenades and family-friendly accommodation options in central areas.
Tip: look for family rooms, breakfast options, and walkable basics (shops/transport).

City-view hotels

Suited to visitors who want panoramic urban vistas and easy access to Nice’s central sights and parks.
Azur Verdun
Rating: 9.9 • 28 reviews
Chouette Massena
Rating: 9.8 • 22 reviews

Pet-friendly hotels

Suited to travelers who want to bring pets, with accommodation options noted for welcoming animals and central locations.

Apartments pet-friendly

Suited to those who prefer apartment-style stays and the flexibility that comes with pet-friendly properties in the city centre.
Appartement Nice Carré d Or
Rating: 9.4 • 44 reviews
Beautiful apartment, old nice
Rating: 9.3 • 9 reviews

Beachfront hotels

Suited to beach-oriented travelers who want immediate access to the bay and coastal promenades.
Tip: verify if it’s truly on the beach (not across a road) and check beach conditions in reviews.
Chez Eva
Rating: 9.8 • 26 reviews
Royal Lux NICE -Last floor, see view
Rating: 9.8 • 4 reviews

FAQ

What currency is used in Nice?
You’ll typically pay in EUR (euro). Cards are commonly accepted, but it’s smart to carry some cash for small purchases.
How do I get to Nice?
Nice’s airport is described as a gateway to the region, and the city’s coastal location also makes it accessible by road and rail from other places on the Riviera.
What are the top sights to see in Nice?
Key attractions include the Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges along the coast, the historic Old Town, Castle Hill for city views, and cultural venues such as the Marc Chagall National Museum.
Are there natural areas or outdoor excursions near Nice?
Yes—aside from coastal promenades and the bay, nearby landscapes such as the Gorges du Loup offer natural scenery and outdoor interest reachable from Nice.
What should I expect from the weather in Nice?
Expect warm, sunny conditions in the late spring and summer months, with increased rainfall in autumn and milder, cooler conditions in winter compared with the summer peak.
Is Nice a good base for short trips to nearby places?
Nice is well positioned for exploring nearby destinations; the city is close to Monaco and the Italian border, making cross-border or local excursions feasible from a Nice base.
Are museums and cultural attractions worth visiting?
Yes—Nice hosts notable museums such as the Marc Chagall National Museum and has a historic Old Town and cultural sites that reflect the region’s artistic and civic history.
Can I find family-friendly and pet-friendly accommodation in Nice?
Yes—the available accommodation options include properties marketed as family-friendly and as pet-friendly, offering choices for travelers with children or pets.

Sources