Wondering where to start your day of exploring Nice? With colorful architecture and a vibrant atmophere Place Massena is the iconic heart of the city and a must see while you’re here!
History of the Area
Place Massena is one of the most famous squares in the Cote d’Azur and is located in the heart of Nice. During the 19th century Place Massena was built over the Paillon River to join the hotels in one part of town to the Old Town. Over time it became a bustling square filled with cafes, restaurants and shops. With its checkerboard ground and bright red facade buildings Place Massena continues to amaze after all these years.
Today it is the perfect starting point for exploring the city. Whether you are looking to do some shopping on Jean Medicine, stroll along the Promenade d’Anglais or explore the Old Town, it is all joined by Place Massena. With tram line 1 running through the middle, you can easily get here and start exploring.
Check out Place Massena
Here is a glance into the beauty that makes Place Massena the vibrant and iconic area that it is.
The Iconic Features
One of the most iconic features of the area is all the bright red buildings that surround it. In one building you will find Gallery Lafayette, a French department store, while the others are a mix of restaurants, cafes and shops. In the afternoons these cafes are the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine, people watch and soak up the sun.
One of the symbols of Place Massena is the ‘Fountain of the Sun’ which represents the Greek god, Apollo who is surrounded by bronze statues which represent different planets. The funny thing about the fountain is that Apollo has been previously moved to different parts of the city in an attempt to hide him so his “lack of clothing” didn’t shock tourists.
As you wander through Massena, you are sure to notice the seven tall poles with sculptures perched on top. Entitled “Conversation in Nice” these statues represent the seven continents of the world and are beautifully illuminated at sunset. This art work adds a unique charm to the area.
Things To Do
On either side of Place Massena is Promenade du Paillon, a beautiful 12-hectare park. The main feature of the park is the reflecting pool which is great for a peaceful moment. You will often find children and dogs running around through the water to cool off. The park is also filled with lush greenery and playgrounds for kids; making it a great place to spend an afternoon.
With Place Massena being in the heart of Nice, it tends to be the location of many major events; the most popular being Carnival. During the last couple weeks of February, the entire square is transformed into a colorful, vibrant festival. If you happen to be in Nice during this time, I highly recommend going to a night parade; with music, dancing and incredible floats it is such a fun experience to be a part of.
Another great time to visit is during the Christmas season when the entire city is transformed. To really get in the spirit I suggest visiting the market which is marked by an incredible Ferris wheel which provides panoramic views of the city and beyond. Try seasonal treats, shop artisan stalls or relax and drink champagne for a true South of France experience.
Whether you are planning to explore the city, do some shopping or relax in the sun Place Massena is a great starting point for any trip in Nice.