If you’re dreaming of a perfect weekend escape on the French Riviera, look no further than Nice. With its radiant Mediterranean light, a long, palm-lined promenade, and pastel-colored buildings hugging cobbled lanes, Nice offers the best of Southern France in a compact, accessible package. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, this sunny city welcomes you with open arms—and a sea breeze.
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Old Nice
Start your Saturday morning in Vieux Nice, the atmospheric historic heart of the city. As you wander through its labyrinth of narrow alleyways, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different era—where laundry lines stretch across the streets, shutters are painted in sun-faded pastels, and the scent of fresh bread and herbs wafts out from tiny boulangeries and épiceries. The architecture here is a vibrant mix of Italianate facades, ochre and coral-hued buildings, and wrought-iron balconies draped in bougainvillea. It’s a living, breathing neighborhood where locals still shop, greet each other in Niçard dialect, and sip espresso at street-side cafés.
Your first stop should be the Cours Saleya Market, the bustling soul of the Old Town and one of the most famous markets on the Riviera. In the morning, it’s a feast for the senses: bright umbrellas shade rows of fresh produce, fragrant herbs, lavender soaps, olives, spices, and towers of candied fruit. The flower market is especially photogenic, bursting with seasonal blooms that perfume the air. On Mondays, the space transforms into an antique market, offering everything from vintage posters to old books and Provençal ceramics.
While you’re here, don’t leave without trying a hot slice of socca, a crispy, golden chickpea pancake served straight from a wood-fired pan. It’s simple, satisfying, and utterly local—best eaten with your fingers and a sprinkle of black pepper. Many vendors also serve other Niçoise specialties like pan bagnat (a tuna sandwich with vegetables on round bread) and pissaladière, an onion tart that rivals pizza.
From the market, stroll through the winding streets to Place Rossetti, one of the most picturesque squares in the Old Town. The Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate dominates the plaza with its baroque architecture, colorful dome, and soaring bell tower. Step inside to admire its intricate interior, gilded altars, and soft candlelight. The square is also a popular spot for ice cream, especially at Fenocchio, where you can sample dozens of creative flavors—think rose, thyme, or even tomato-basil gelato.
Just a short walk away is the Palais Lascaris, a hidden gem tucked into a side street. This beautifully preserved 17th-century aristocratic residence showcases ornate frescoes, intricate stucco work, and a magnificent staircase that alone is worth the visit. The museum also houses a rare collection of antique musical instruments, including harpsichords, violins, and woodwinds, offering a glimpse into the musical life of the French nobility.
To cap off your exploration of the Old Town, make your way up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château). Though the fortress that once stood here was dismantled in the 18th century, the site remains one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in all of Nice. You can climb the steps from the Old Town or take the convenient elevator (ascenseur) near the eastern end of the Promenade. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops of Vieux Nice, the azure sweep of the Baie des Anges, and the bustling port with its colorful fishing boats and luxury yachts. The park itself is a serene oasis, with shady trees, landscaped gardens, and a man-made waterfall that children love. There’s also a small café and plenty of benches if you want to sit and savor the moment.
Day 2: Bike the Coast and Play by the Sea
Sunday is for fresh air and sunshine, and there’s no better way to soak it in than by cycling along Promenade des Anglais. Rent a bike or e-bike from one of the many Vélo Bleu stations scattered across the city and head west along the promenade. The bike lane stretches for several kilometers beside the sea, giving you views of pebbled beaches, iconic art deco hotels, and parasol-dotted cafés. You can stop along the way for a dip in the sea or a cool drink with a view.
If you’re traveling with kids, a great stop is the Promenade du Paillon, a wide green corridor running from the city center toward the sea. This park features one of the best playgrounds in Nice, with pirate ships, rope bridges, and water jets that dance to the delight of children (and occasionally their parents). There are shaded benches for a break and plenty of room for a picnic.
How to get there?
Getting to Nice is easy and scenic. The Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is one of the busiest in France and is just 7 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take tram line 2 directly into town in under 30 minutes. If you’re coming from Paris, a high-speed TGV train will bring you to Nice-Ville station in about six hours. Road trippers will also enjoy the picturesque drive along the A8 highway, which winds along the Mediterranean coast. Last but not least, Nice is also a great destination foe a weekend if you are living or holidaying on the Italian Ligurian Coast. You can catch the train from Ventimiglia or drive along the highway. Nice is just an hour away from the Italian border.
Accommodation
Nice offers all sorts of accommodation. Here you can find a cozy flat in the historic center, friendly guest houses and of course luxury hotels overlooking the sea promenade. If you are looking for a comfortable, relaxing and unique experience, check these two solutions:
Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel
Located in the heart of Nice, this hotel offers a truly artistic and immersive experience. Since 1989, the hotel has collaborated with contemporary artists to transform rooms into unique works of art. Here you will be able to choose to stay in rooms that resemble a golden cube, a cartoon adventure, or a fantasy garden. The hotel’s lush tropical garden adds to its enchanting ambiance. Visit the hotel’s website to choose your room and book online in advance.
Spa Luxury: Boscolo Nice Hôtel & Spa
Are you seeking relaxation and wellness? The Boscolo Nice Hôtel & Spa is an excellent choice! This Belle Époque-style hotel features a 500 m² spa inspired by Roman baths, complete with stone walls and vaulted ceilings. Here you will enjoy a range of treatments, a heated rooftop pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. The hotel’s central location makes it super convenient for exploring Nice. Check the official website here to book in advance.
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