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As you wander through Nice’s city center, you are sure to come across Rue de France or as the locals know it, Rue Pietonne, meaning pedestrian street. If you are looking for restaurants, cafes, bars and even some shopping then this is the area for you. How to Get There   Located off Place Massena is a bustling pedestrian only street. Across from Galleries Lafayette, you will find “Zara Home” and on the wall there, you will see a street sign that says Rue Massena which marks the start of this pedestrian only street; a little confusing I know. From here you can wander straight and discover everything this busy street has to offer. As you explore be sure to check out the side streets for other great eateries. Conveniently located a block up from the Promenade des Anglais means you can pick up lunch on Rue de France and eat on the beach or enjoy dinner in the area after a day in the sun. Regardless of the time of day, you are sure to find plenty of food options available. Although the pedestrian only portion of the street ends at Rue de Congres; the restaurants and shopping continue much further! You can wander, eat and shop all the way to Boulevard Gambetta which in total is about a 20-minute walk without stops, of course. You can continue further, however, you won’t find as many places to check out. Restaurants Rue de France offers a good mix between places to shop and places to eat. The first half of the street is mainly French and Italian cuisine and largely caters to tourists. If you are looking to try French dishes like frogs’ legs, escargots, and onion soup then this is the area to check out. However if you are wanting a change then head a little further for more international cuisines. Having been living in Nice for a while, I have yet to try all the restaurants on Rue de France mainly because I love returning to my favorites like Poco Loco for Mexican food. They serve large portions of authentic Mexican cuisine and have the cheapest and most delicious margaritas that I have had in Nice. Across the street is Teta Marie, a great choice for Lebanese cuisine at an affordable price. In the area you can also find restaurants serving everything from Cuban and Brazilian cuisine to Georgian and Indian; whatever you are craving you are likely to find it in this area. As you wander you will also find great places to enjoy a wine, cocktail or coffee. Usually if you go between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00p.m., you are likely to find great happy hour prices for drinks and snacks. If you wander Rue de France and go a little further than Boulevard Gambetta then you will reach the AC Marriott Hotel. Located between Promenade des Anglais and Rue de France is this massive hotel which can be recognized by the massive female sculpture built into the side of the building. At the top of this hotel is a beautiful rooftop, one of my favorites, with incredible views of the sea and delicious cocktails. Shopping Rue de France isn’t just for eating, it is also a great area to do some shopping. Here you will find a lot of independent boutiques that you probably won’t find in other parts of the city. That being said Cotes et Lin from the Old Town has recently opened another location here. A great shop for those looking for fashionable and affordable linen clothes which are perfect for the hot summer weather in Nice. If you are looking for, designer shops then head to Rue Paradis, just off Magenta Square. Whether you are looking for high quality fashion or famous designers like Chanel and Louis Vuitton this area is a great place to shop. From here you can also check out Rue de la Liberte and Avenue de Verdun for other great designers. With Paris having such a major role in the fashion industry, many people hope to find vintage designer items for a more “affordable” price when they visit France. One of the best places for this is Mademoiselle Nice on Rue de France. Here you will find a wide range for shoes, purses, jewelry and clothing from a variety of designers. Another great place to check out is ReShop located in Nice Etoile on Jean Medecin. Other Attractions Rue de France has more to offer than just restaurants and shopping. This is also the area where you can find the Massena Museum and The Negresco Hotel, two highlights of the city. Check out the top 20 highlights of Nice to discover other great places. Massena Museum is perfect for those looking to learn more about the art and history of the French Riviera. During the late 19th century, the building was the winter estate to Prince Victor d’Essling. After his death in 1919, the villa was donated to the city of Nice and later made into the impressive museum it is today. Filled with stunning architecture, artwork and furniture you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture. Another highlight is the Negresco Hotel. Since it opened its doors in 1913 the hotel has attracted royalty, socialites, artists and politicians from all over the world. Throughout the hotel you will find carefully selected artwork and furniture from various styles and eras. The entire hotel is a work of art in itself with its extravagant guest rooms and restaurants to the rich history it has created over the years. Whether you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a meal or just to explore the city Rue de France is a great place to check out. With its very central location, you can easily access it on foot from other attractions like the Promenade des Anglais and Place Massena.  

Located in the heart of the Old Town of Nice is the colorful Cours Saleya. This beautiful pedestrian only street is busy at all times of the day with markets in the morning and the many restaurants and bars in the evenings. With such a great location, you are sure to check out Cours Saleya while you are in Nice. What Is Cours Saleya Cours Saleya is most famously known for its beautiful flower market which once played a vital part in Nice’s economy. In 1897 Nice opened one of the first ever wholesale flower markets. Farmers from surrounding areas would arrive in the early morning to sell their flowers to wholesalers who would then transport the flowers to other parts of Europe by train. Today many of the stalls have been taken over by fruits, vegetables and baked goods; however, you can still purchase a variety of beautiful flowers. The wholesale market no longer takes place on Cours Saleya; however, you can still find a wide variety of plants and flowers for very affordable prices.  The Markets As I previously mentioned, the Cours Saleya is best known for its flower market which is from 6:00 a.m.-5:30p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and 6:00 a.m.to 1:30p.m. on Sundays. In this market you will also find a variety of local products such as honey, seasonings and soaps; perfect for souvenirs. Here you can also try the traditional Niçois food, Socca. For this head to the “Chez Theresa” stall which has been a part of the market since the 1920s. Socca is a chickpea flatbread that makes a great snack and can only be found in Nice. On Mondays the flower market is closed to make way for the sprawling antique market open 7:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. Here you will find everything from old books and collectibles to vintage jewelry and clothing. As a popular market for locals and tourists, I recommend you arrive early to beat the crowds. Take your time and wander through because you never know what unique things you may find. From June to September, the Cours Saleya hosts an artisan night market; a great way to enjoy the warmer nights. Wander through the stalls to discover handmade clothing and candles, custom jewelry, and so much more. Open from 6:00p.m. to midnight you will have plenty of time to shop. Restaurants Apart from the flower market Cours Saleya was also known as the most popular social hub for the upper class and socialites along the Cote d’Azur! Today it is still a top destination for locals and tourists looking to socialize.  Whether you are looking for some place for a delicious meal, casual drinks with friends or a cozy wine bar you are sure to find it here on Cours Saleya. In terms of cuisine you will mainly find French, Italian and Mediterranean here which means there is a lot of competition between the restaurants. My favorite place to eat on Cours Saleya is “La Favola” where you can enjoy large portions of delicious Italian dishes. Plan to arrive when they open because there is always a line; I promise it’s worth the wait. However, if you would rather not wait then you have a variety of other great restaurants to choose from. Both sides of the Cours Saleya are lined with great places to try. For a casual wine night, I suggest going to “Cafe des Amis.” You may be overwhelmed by the wine selection; however, all the staff are very knowledgeable and can help you decide. They also serve a variety of sharing dishes, pizza and cheese plates but the real star is the incredible tiramisu so make sure you save room. Conclusion Cours Saleya has a great location that is central to some of the great sights of Nice. Located in the Old Town, you can easily wander and explore the maze of colorful streets. Also, a short walk from the flower market you will arrive at Promenade des Anglais; a great way to spend the morning. Discover the colors and atmosphere of the city by visiting the Cours Saleya flower market; this beautiful market brings visitors and locals together as you wander the stalls of local products.

Around the world many cities have their own version of carnivals that take place throughout different times of the year. There are Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Cologne’s Karneval and many more all with their own history and events. Carnival of Nice is one of the biggest in the world! Carnival de Nice The Carnival of Nice may be one of the oldest in the world with evidence of the Count of Provence stating that he enjoyed the “joyous days of Carnival” upon a visit to the city in 1294! In 1873 the first official festival committee was created to increase the popularity and scale of the annual event. A few years later the flower parade was created to showcase the beauty of the region. Since then Carnival has continued to evolve and modernize into the incredible event, it is today. Following alongside the impressive floats, you will see dancers, marching bands and other performers from all over the world; which makes this one of the most International Carnivals in the world! Each year thousands travel to Nice to experience the unique festive atmosphere that Carnival creates. Taking place over 15 days, starting mid February, the entire city is transformed. With beautiful Flower Parades during the day, and the parade of lights at night there is no shortage of festivities to experience. If you don’t attend the parades, you can still take part in the many other events of the city. Check the official website or posters located throughout the city to find out what else is going on and where. The Village If you’re looking for other ways to take part in the festivities then be sure to explore “The Village”; located in the Promenade du Paillon. Here you will find various stalls selling souvenirs, gourmet treats, and artisan products. Depending on the theme of the year, you can check out different exhibitions and art installations. The Village is a great place to go with children because there are a variety of games for them to play and creative workshops to take part in like origami, flower crowns and face painting. The Village is aimed at being an all ages environment so it is a great place to take even small children who may be scared of the giant parade floats. Be sure to check the event schedule because throughout the 15 days you can catch dance performances, concerts and smaller parades all in The Village. Free of charge to enter it is a great place to be a part of the festivities without having to buy a ticket. The Parade of Lights Here is a video from the parade of lights last year. The atmosphere is electric and such a fun experience to be apart of, I highly recommend it! Key Ceremonies At the start of Carnival, there is a massive opening ceremony where the King and Queen are announced and mark the beginning of the festivities. For 2024 the theme was Pop Culture so the king and queen were Marilyn Monroe and Luke Skywalker! These incredible floats take over 200 hours to create and get more impressive each year. The theme for 2025 is King of the Oceans so I can’t wait to see what they come up with this year! Another key event is the beautiful flower parades. Beginning in 1876 these parades were designed to entertain the tourists, however, quickly grew to the over-the-top floral masterpieces that you see today. Following the Carnival’s theme these floats are covered in thousands of flowers with 80% of them from the region. The Flower Parade is far more suitable for younger children than the parade of lights with the giant floats. After all of the festivities comes the closing ceremony where the Carnival King is burned an ancient tradition to mark the end of winter. This unique event also marks the end of the Carnival King’s reign. The idea behind the burning is that the king is like a phoenix so when one dies another rises from the ashes. This is also when the theme for the following year is announced. What to Expect Due to the tragic terrorist attack in Nice in 2016, the city provides plenty of security for large-scale events such as Carnival. With all that being said, there can be long lines for security check at the parades so be sure to arrive early so you don’t miss the start of the parade.  With the Carnival de Nice experiencing 230,000 visitors last year, its growing popularity shows that thousands of people travel to Nice to take part in the festivities. With a large increase in attendance from the previous year, you can expect big crowds throughout the city. This means if you plan to visit Nice during this time then book your hotels a few months in advance because places book up fast. The same goes for Carnival parade tickets; try and purchase your tickets early before they sell out. Tickets can be purchased online in the fall for the following carnival and closer to the start of the festivities you can find ticket booths throughout the city. Keep in mind tickets are only if you wish to see the parades and much larger events on Place Massena. Whether you are planning to take part in Carnival or are just visiting Nice, this is a great time of year to explore the city. With such a vibrant and festive buzz throughout the city, it’s hard not to get caught up in the fun. Carnival has been one of my favorite experiences in Nice so far and I can’t wait for you to experience the magic for yourself!

Promenade Paillon is a beautiful park located in the center of Nice that is perfect for picnics, relaxing, and strolling through. With regular events being held here, it is a great place to check out while you’re exploring the city! How It Started Before the beautiful Promenade du Paillon was created there was a river, with the same name, flowing in its place. After many years of flooding and other incidents due to the river, it was decided that it should be covered. The extensive project began in 1867 and proved to have other added benefits such as providing a green space for visitors to admire as well as connecting the Old Town to the more developed parts of the city. This vast 12-hectare park opened in 2013 and spans from the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC) crossing over Place Massena all the way to the Promenade des Anglais. Today, the Promenade du Paillon is undergoing a massive extension project which will take it well beyond the MAMAC all the way to Nice Acropolis which is the city’s convention center. This upgrade will make it a 20-hectare urban forest. During this project they will also be renovating and improving the MAMAC which will remain closed until everything is completed. Check it Out Discover why Promenade du Paillon is a great escape in the center of Nice.  What to Do Promenade du Paillon is a great place to escape the busy city and enjoy the peacefulness of the park. As you explore you will discover some of the key features of the area. The first being the “Water Mirror” which is a large water feature with over 120 jets that can be seen from Place Massena. During the day you will find children and dogs running through the water and at night it is lit up in blue, white and red to represent the French flag. Another great feature is the large playground for children aged 3 to 12. These wooden structures were built in a  marine life theme with giant turtles, a whale and pirate ship; all great for playing and climbing. With plenty of swings, slides and so much more it’s a great place to entertain your children. As you stroll through the area, you will find various sculptures of historic figures, seating areas and places for picnics. Throughout the day you will see people running and taking part in fitness classes as well as walking their dogs and visiting with friends. Although the park is usually busy, there is plenty of space for you to find a quiet area to relax. Events Throughout the year the city of Nice hosts a variety of events with some of the largest ones taking place in the Promenade du Paillon. From annual events such as Iron Man and Jazz Fest to smaller events like theater performances and concerts. Depending on the time of year that you are visiting there is a good chance that there will be an event taking place. In past years they have set up viewing areas for major sporting events such as the Olympics in Paris, Rugby championships and Eurocup games. For this they set up a giant screen to watch the games with plenty of seating. It’s free to enter and you will have food and drinks for purchase inside; depending on the event sometimes there’s also merchandise stalls. Although the larger events such as Iron Man tend to take over the majority of the park, you can still find plenty of green space to enjoy closer to the MAMAC area. Carnival Starting mid February the city center transforms for Carnival for a 3-week period. This incredible event is an absolute must see if you are in the city. Whether you are seeing the parades or taking part in other festivities around the city it is a great experience for all ages. During this time the Promenade du Paillon transforms into the Carnival village. Throughout the village you will find gourmet food stalls, crafts, shops, games and performances! During the 3 weeks, there are also a variety of events that take place in the village like dance classes, live music, art exhibits and plenty more just be sure to check the official website for more information. Each year there is a different theme for Carnival which determines what kinds of events and performances you can expect to see. For 2024 the theme was “King of Pop Culture” which had plenty of movies and music references throughout. This year for 2025 it is “King of Oceans” so it will be fun to see what they come up with! Christmas Market Another huge event that takes place in the Promenade du Paillon is the Christmas Market! Open for a month starting at the beginning of December, the city is truly transformed. Located off Place Massena the Christmas market takes over the area. At the entrance of the market, you will find an impressive Ferris Wheel, which can be seen throughout the city center. As you explore the market, you will find various stalls selling delicious food, drinks, sweets and plenty of handmade  products; perfect for gifts. There are also performances for children, craft areas and, of course, you can visit Father Christmas. No matter what time of day you visit it will be busy so embrace the festive spirit and enjoy the atmosphere. With the Christmas Market in one section of the Promenade du Paillon, you can still enjoy the rest of the park. In previous years they have extended the market to both sides of Place Massena and set up an ice rink over the “Water Mirror.” Each year is slightly different so we will have to wait and see what they come up with this year! Whether you are looking for a place to relax,or for somewhere to take your children, Promenade du Paillon is a great place to visit in the heart of Nice. With so much going on in the city,

Looking to do some shopping? Then you have come to the right place! Jean Medecin is one of the main shopping streets of Nice. From home decor and shoes to beauty products and clothing, you are sure to find it here. About the Area The avenue of Jean Medecin was originally built to join Place Massena to the Marsailles-Ventimiglia railway. From the day it was built in the late 19th century, it had several name changes before it was finalized in 1966. The avenue is named after Jean Medecin who was the city’s mayor for thirty-three years. Today the pedestrian avenue joins together many of the other main streets of the area; most of which are also great for shopping. Other than shopping Avenue Jean Medecin is also known for the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame. Inspired by the cathedrals in Paris, Basilique Notre-Dame was built in 1879 after the French takeover of the County of Nice. With beautiful stained glass and towers that stand 31 meters high, this beautiful basilica adds a historic charm to this bustling shopping area. Sneak Peek Here is a glimpse into one of the busiest Avenues in Nice and the perfect area to do some shopping!  Shopping As soon as you arrive on Jean Medecin, you may be overwhelmed by the selection of stores and may not know where to start! The “central” point of the bustling avenue is the shopping mall of Nice Etoile which is a great option for rainy days; this is also near where the tram stops for lines 1 and 2. From Nice Etoile you can walk north towards Liberation which will take you past a variety of boutiques, shoe stores, sporting goods and fast food chains. Or you can head south towards Place Massena which takes you past bigger-name stores, home decor and beauty products until you reach Gallerie Lafayette. This 5-floor French department store has everything you could possibly want under one roof. If Jean Medecin doesn’t have enough shopping for you then check out the cross streets of Rue de la Liberte, Rue du Marechal Joffre and Avenue Notre Dame; just to name a few. Wander around and explore because there is no shortage of great shopping on Jean Medecin and the surrounding area. Depending on when you’re visiting Nice you may be able to take advantage of the seasonal sales. This French tradition allows shops to sell their product for less than cost which means you can find some incredible deals! Taking place 2 times a year; in the summer and in the winter, you can find some incredible deals on everything from clothing, shoes, electronics, home decor and more! Other Highlights If you are looking to take a break from shopping then why not check out one of the many cafes along the busy avenue. For coffee lovers I suggest checking out Malongo. The family-owned company has been roasting beans near Nice since 1934 and now it is one of the largest names in the coffee industry in France. In the shop you can choose from a variety of beans which will be roasted fresh for you to either take home or to enjoy in the cafe. A great escape from the busy street is to check out the rooftop “Bella Ciela” on top of the Mercure Hotel. From the top you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Basilique Notre-Dame and the rooftops of Nice. This is a great location to watch the sunset while you enjoy a refreshing drink and some delicious food. For other great restaurants and cafes, you can wander any of the cross streets which also tend to be less busy and slightly cheaper than those directly on Jean Medecin. One of my favorite patisseries, Masison Celine, is on Rue de la Liberte. Incredible pastries, croissants and sandwiches for affordable prices compared to other patisseries in the city. Be sure to get there early though because they sell out fast! Wondering where to stay in Nice? With Jean Medecin so centrally located to the rest of the city, it is a great area to book your accommodations. I would suggest staying off the avenue though because it is such a busy area that it can be quite noisy especially during the summer. Conclusion Well, there you have it, if you are looking to do some shopping while in the city then Avenue Jean Medecin is the place for you! No matter what you’re looking for, you are sure to find it here. You can also easily walk to the other highlights of the city such as Place Massena, Promenade des Anglais and so many more!    

If you are traveling with children or are looking for a relaxing afternoon activity then Parc Phoenix is the place for you! This beautiful 7-hectare park offers plenty of activities for all ages. From art exhibitions and beautiful greenhouses to exotic animals and a children’s playground why wouldn’t you come check it out? For only €5.50, it’s a great way to spend the day. About the Park Parc Phoenix opened its doors in 1990 and impressed with its diamond-shaped greenhouse which was the largest in the world at the time. Since the park was built in a marsh, it took over 26 months and 80 different companies to create. One would assume that the park’s name is related to the immortal bird, a Phoenix. However it is actually the name of the species of palm tree that is located throughout the park. One of the main features of the area is the impressive “green diamond”; a 7000 m2 greenhouse. As you explore you will discover three main areas: the African garden, Central America and the ferns where you can also find Nile crocodiles. Wander through and admire the tropical paradise that they all help create. Smell the tropical flowers, visit the flamingos, and enjoy the peaceful sanctuary of the green diamond. Parc Phoenix is not only known for its greenhouse but also for all the animals that call it home. As you wander you’ll find everything from wallabies and lemurs to otters and exotic birds. The park offers a  sanctuary for these animals who have been seized by the authorities or have been rescued from abandonment. With over 2000 different animals throughout the park, there is lots to discover. Other Great Activities If you are visiting with children then be sure to visit the playground. Made up of different fenced areas, children of all ages can run around, climb, slide and swing. Located beside the playground is a large grass area that is perfect for running around or enjoying an afternoon picnic. Forgot to bring food? Right nearby you will find a canteen that serves sandwiches, burgers, ice cream and more. For a unique child-friendly activity check out the tree climbing! This treetop adventure park is a fun experience for children over the age of 3. With a harness and highly secure safety system, your kids take part in an obstacle course of zip lining, jumping and sliding. Do not fear there are staff members all around in case and you supervise and direct your child from the ground. For a more cultural experience, you can visit the Museum of Asian Arts; located in the white marble and glass building in the center of the lake. Here you will have a glimpse into the culture and history of the Asian continent through a wide variety of works dating back centuries. With changing exhibits, events and performances you will be transported to other parts of the globe. How to Get Here Wondering how you get here? Just hop on tram line 2 in the direction of the airport, the journey is about 30 minutes from the city center. From the Parc Phoenix stop, you will have a short walk to the entrance gate. Alternatively you can take the #12 bus along the promenade or take the train and stop at Nice Saint-Augustin; in both cases you will have about a 15 min walk to the park.  Whether you are looking for a relaxing day or for a family-friendly activity Parc Phoenix is a great place to visit. Enjoy the animals and nature around the park or even enjoy a picnic in the sun.

When you’re exploring the Old Town of Nice, be sure to visit Place Garibaldi! This emblematic square is filled with restaurants, cafes, bars and shops for you to discover. For a local atmosphere, this is the place to be. With its traditional architecture, and rich history, it is a must visit while you’re in Nice. The History   Built on top of the remains of the town’s old fortification,which dates back to 1360, construction on Garibaldi Square lasted between 1773 and 1784. Originally the square was created to be a place to welcome and celebrate the Counts of Savoy and later it became the destination for military parades. Today you can visit the excavated ruins at the Garibaldi Crypt underneath the square.  Since the square was created, it had a few different names until it was finalized that it would be named after the Italian General Giuseppe Garibaldi, who was born in Nice in 1806. Due to Nice’s rich history with Italy, it just seemed fitting to honor Giuseppe Garibaldi with the square and a large statue. As you discover the area, you will also notice Italian influence in the architecture. As you admire the bright yellow architecture of the square, you may notice something a little odd about the windows. Painted in the optical illusion style of “trompe-l’oeil” many of the white decorations around the windows are not actually there! Unless you look closely, you may not even notice. Things to Do Similar to Place Massena, the other iconic square of the city, you will find a variety of cafes and restaurants to enjoy. Many of the cafes in this area are filled with locals meeting on their lunch breaks or visiting with friends and family on weekends. Since Garibaldi Square is often overlooked by tourists, you will experience a different atmosphere here compared to Place Massena. If you really want to know where the locals go then head to Rue Bonaparte, also known as the blue street. Here you will find a bustling street filled with restaurants and bars all with their own unique atmosphere. Whether you are looking for upscale dining and fancy cocktails or more of a party atmosphere you are sure to find it here. Located right off Place Garibaldi you won’t have a hard time finding it. At the opposite end of Garibaldi Square you will find the impressive MAMAC, Modern and Contemporary Art Museum. Home to over 1,300 pieces from over 300 artists dating back from the 1950s to present it is one of my favorite museums in the city. With work from Andy Warhol and César to Nice’s own Yves Klein, you will truly discover Modern and Contemporary art. Unfortunately in January 2024 the MAMAC closed its doors for a 4-year renovation project which is part of the Promenade du Paillon project. That being said, you can still discover the MAMAC collections by visiting the other museums of the city. For example, at the Matisse Museum you will find Yves Klein’s work, two of Nice’s most famous artists. For updated exhibit information visit the MAMAC website. Other Great Activities If you are looking for a market besides Cours Saleya then be sure to check out the Garibaldi antique market which takes place on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Here, you will find stalls selling everything from antique furniture and silverware to vintage clothing and jewelry. This bustling market is less touristy than Cours Saleya and much bigger. Looking for more antiques then take a short 5-minute walk from Place Garibaldi to Rue Antoine Gauthier. This street is where you will find some of the best antiques such as tapestries, clocks and other great finds. From here you have another 5-minute walk to a permanent flea market located in the port. Everything in Nice city center is within walking distance of each other; great for exploring. France is not only known for its beautiful antiques but also for its delicious pastries! If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth then be sure to visit Patisserie Julien Dugourd; one of the best in the city. Just a short walk from the square will bring you here where you can try some of the incredible pastries. Each dessert is thought out and looks like a work of art. The pastries can be a bit pricey but are well worth it! The Conclusion With Nice being such a walkable city, you will have no problem getting to Garibaldi Square. Whether you walk through Promenade du Paillon or the Old Town you will easily find your way here. Wander the streets of the city and you will discover many of the great sights of the city. You can also reach the square by taking either tram line 1 directly to the square or line 2 to “Garibaldi/ Le Chateau” which is below Colline du Chateau. Often overlooked by tourists Garibaldi Square is a great place to explore on a sunny day. Whether you want to visit the cafes or discover the history of the area, it is a must visit while you are in Nice.    

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.    

If you are wandering around the Old town of Nice then you may notice a waterfall up on a hill; this area is called Colline du Chateau or Castle Hill. Up there you will find incredible lookouts, playgrounds, cafes as well as learn about the history of Nice. The History Chateau de Nice once was a fortified military structure that was used between the 11th and 18th centuries. It was the ideal location to overlook the sea and keep watch for potential attacks. After many sieges throughout its time, it wasn’t until 1706 when French troops took over and destroyed everything. Fun fact: Nice didn’t become a part of France until 1860. As you explore Colline du Chateau, you will come across the ruins of the castle which once stood there. From the old stone stairs to the mosaics and tiled terraces where the castle towers once stood. Throughout the park you will find signs that give you the history of the area and a glimpse into the rich history of the city. Whether you are visiting Castle Hill or are exploring elsewhere in Nice you are very likely to hear a cannon fire at exactly 12 every day. Although it may shock you, there is no need to worry. The tradition dates back to the 19th century, however, today it is no longer with a real cannon. Legend states that Lord Coventry would fire the cannon at noon to remind his wife about lunch. The city got so used to it that they have kept it going ever since. Exploring the Park Towering 93 meters above the city this beautiful green space is a peaceful escape. From one side you get breathtaking views of the Promenade des Anglais all the way to the airport and beyond. You also get a great view of the many colorful buildings that make up the city center. If you head to the other side of the park, you will have an amazing view of the port and Mount Boron. This beautiful park has a maze of tree-covered paths that are great for exploring, running or walking your dog. The  paths can lead you to different viewpoints, the castle ruins or the waterfall. You can walk up to the waterfalls base but keep in mind you will have the cool spray on you. Or you can venture to the viewing balcony at the top of the waterfall, safe from any water. Things To Do If you’re traveling with children then Colline du Chateau is a great place to visit. With playgrounds and climbing structures for all ages, they can run around while you relax in the sun. Throughout the year you will also find people hosting birthday parties and family picnics in the area. After exploring the park, you can enjoy a beverage in one of the two cafes. The first is located near the top of the waterfall while the other can be found near the playgrounds. Enjoy a refreshing beverage in the summer or a relaxing coffee in the sun. Open year-round they are a great place to people watch and enjoy the city escape. Getting There To reach the top of Castle Hill you will have a few options. The first is to take one of the many sets of stairs to the top which can be found by Hotel Suisse, in the Old Town and off of Garibaldi Square. Another option is the elevator located just off the promenade. Finally, you can also drive or even take the white tourist train to the top. Whichever you choose is worth the effort.  Whether you are visiting Colline du Chateau for its history, natural beauty or for an escape from the city it is well worth the visit.

If you have done any research on Nice or have seen pictures then you have definitely seen pictures of the iconic Old Town.This beautiful part of town is a maze of colorful alleyways filled with a variety of local shops and eateries. From pleasant cocktail bars and cozy cafes to international restaurants and local Nicoise cuisine, there is no shortage of places to choose from. Where To Shop The Old Town is a great place to do some shopping! If you are looking for souvenirs to bring home, you will find plenty of artisan shops selling everything from handmade jewelry and soaps to spices and artwork. As you shop you will also come across Italian leather goods, shoes, home linens and a variety of vintage clothing shops. Whatever you are looking for, you will likely find it in the Old Town. A must visit of the Old Town is Cours Saleya. Here you will find plenty more restaurants and bars to check out; however, you will also find markets! If you visit in the mornings, you can stroll through the flower and produce market. If you go on a Monday then you can check out the antique market which sells everything from paintings and housewares to vintage clothing and perfumes.  Where to Eat If you head to the main square of the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice (Nice Cathderal) then you will find plenty of great restaurants and a lively atmosphere. In this square you will also find Fenocchio ice cream which has over 100 different flavors! Of course you have traditional flavors like strawberry and caramel but you will also find tomato basil and avocado for those looking for more unique flavors. For a night out I suggest going to Carriera Dou Gouvernou. Filled with restaurants and bars with a lively atmosphere it is a perfect place to start a great night! Whether you are looking for good food, a cool place for a drink or to do some dancing you are sure to find it here. Each with their own unique charm. It’s always fun checking out a few different places. More to Explore If you are visiting Nice between the end of October and the beginning of April, you will experience a much quieter Old Town. With Nice being such a tourist destination, you really see the city quiet down during the cooler months; During the quiet period, many shops and restaurants close down for the season which means you will experience a more authentic charm while finding out where the locals go.  The Old Town of Nice is a great place to explore at the start of your trip because it is so centrally located to many of the other attractions of the city. From here you have a short walk to the Promenade D’Anglais, Garibali Square and Port Lympia. The Old Town is also the base of the main stairs that take you up to Colline du Chateau.  Other highlights of the area are Opera de Nice, Palais de Justice, the produce market in Saint-Francois and the churches located throughout the Old Town. With so much going on in this part of town the best way to explore is to allow yourself to get lost and embrace the bustling atmosphere of the old town.