A Perfect Day Trip to Nice
- Margaux Delang
- 25 jun
- 4 minuten om te lezen
Sunshine, sea views & local charm on the French Riviera
If you’re spending time on the Côte d’Azur, Nice is an ideal stop — full of Mediterranean flair, colorful streets, good food, and picture-perfect sea views. We visited Nice as a day trip from Monaco and were surprised by how much we could experience in just a few hours. This post bundles all our tips, highlights, and practical info to help you plan your own perfect day in Nice.
Why Visit Nice?
Nice is one of those cities that has a little bit of everything: vibrant old town, elegant architecture, a seafront promenade, great museums, sunny beaches, and a relaxed, local atmosphere — even in high season. It’s easy to reach, fun to explore, and offers that perfect mix of culture and coastal chill.
What to Do in Nice (Even If You Only Have a Day)
Wander Through Vieux Nice
Start your day in the Old Town (Vieux Nice), where colorful houses, narrow alleys and baroque churches create an instantly charming vibe. The streets are full of life: bakeries, tiny shops, artists, and cafés tucked into every corner.
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday morning, you’ll catch the flower and food market at Cours Saleya. On Mondays, the market turns into an antiques and flea market — fun for vintage lovers!
Climb (or ride) to Castle Hill
Don’t miss the panoramic views from Colline du Château (Castle Hill). You can either walk up the steps or take the free elevator near the seaside entrance. At the top, you’ll get sweeping views over the rooftops of Nice and the turquoise curve of the Baie des Anges. There’s also a small park, a waterfall, and shady spots to rest — perfect on warmer days.
Stroll Along the Promenade des Anglais
Next, head back down and walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais. It stretches for kilometers along the beach and is a great spot for photos, people-watching, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. You’ll pass roller skaters, street musicians, and locals soaking up the sun.
Bring a towel if you feel like taking a dip — even the public pebbled beaches are beautiful (though not the softest on your feet!).
Optional Add-ons:
Art Lovers? Visit the Matisse Museum or the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC).
Shopping mood? Wander around Rue Jean Médecin or the small artisan shops in the old town.
Where to Park in Nice
If you’re coming by car, there are several convenient underground parkings. We parked at Parking Gare Thiers, right by the train station — central, safe, and a flat rate of around €25/day. Other nearby options include:
•Parking Promenade des Arts (close to the old town)
•Parking Palais Masséna (near the seafront)
Tip: Nice can be busy, especially in summer. If you want to avoid traffic, consider coming by train — the Nice-Ville station is within walking distance from all main sights.
Accessibility in Nice
We found Nice to be relatively accessible for those with reduced mobility or strollers. Most of the old town is flat, though the cobblestones can be a bit uneven. The Promenade des Anglais is completely flat and wide, and there’s an elevator up to Castle Hill for those who can’t take the stairs.
Public transport is modern and includes step-free trams and buses. Most museums and public spaces also provide accessibility features
Where to Eat: Lunch at Bar des Oiseaux
One of our highlights was lunch at the cozy and authentic Bar des Oiseaux — a local favorite tucked into the quieter side of the old town. Their little terrace is shaded and charming, with a relaxed local feel. It was full of French speakers (always a good sign!), and the staff was super welcoming.
We had their 3-course lunch menu for just €23, which was amazing value considering the quality of the food. The menu changes regularly depending on what’s fresh. We enjoyed a seasonal starter, a delicious main (fresh fish of the day), and a homemade dessert that felt straight out of a French grandma’s kitchen. Add a glass of chilled rosé and you’ve got the Riviera dream.
Tip: Go early or book ahead if you want a seat outside — it’s popular and fills up quickly, especially around 1PM.
Practical Tips for Your Day in Nice
* Language: Most people speak basic English, but a few words of French go a long way.
* Payment: Cards are widely accepted, even in small cafés and market stalls.
* Timing: Start your day early to enjoy the market and beat the afternoon heat.
Final Thoughts
Nice was the perfect mix of color, coastline, culture and calm. Whether you come for just a few hours or stay for a week, it’s the kind of city that leaves you sun-kissed and smiling. From market mornings to scenic views and a perfect local lunch — this was one of our favorite stops on the French Riviera.
