In November, much of Europe and North America start to see snow and much colder temperatures, which may mean you need to escape to warmer weather. Nice is a great option for a holiday in November!
Even though Nice cools down quite a bit during this time of year, it is nowhere near as cold as many other destinations. Here is all the information you need to plan your November holiday in Nice!
Why Visit Nice in November?
November is a great time to visit Nice because there are far fewer tourists, meaning popular destinations such as Colline du Château and the Promenade des Anglais are much quieter.
Since November is the shoulder season between September and December, you will be able to find great deals on hotels and flights! You are likely to find excellent 3-star options in the city center for around €72 a night. Just be sure to book in advance and compare prices to ensure you find the best deals.
The Weather in November
In terms of weather, Nice is much cooler and rainier in November compared to the hot summer months. That being said, you can expect an average of about 10 days of rain throughout the month. On days without rain, you can still enjoy beautiful sunshine. The average temperatures are around 16°C during the day, with cooler temperatures in the evenings and early mornings.
This is the perfect time to enjoy a picnic on the Promenade des Anglais because there is plenty of space for you to lay down a towel and relax. However, if you plan to eat on the beach, just beware of the seagulls, as they will steal food from your hands.
Although November is great for a beach picnic, it is not the best time of year for swimming. Water temperatures are often around 17°C, which is quite chilly for a swim.
What to Do
With November being a much quieter month, you can visit all the great sights of the city without the large crowds.
Nice’s Old Town is a great option because you can explore the colorful alleyways and take plenty of pictures without having to dodge people. During this time of year, many shops and restaurants close because they cater more to tourists. This means that the restaurants that remain open offer a more authentic local atmosphere.
Another great place to visit is the Cours Saleya market, where you can shop for local produce, flowers, and baked goods. During the summer, this market is packed with people, which sometimes detracts from the charm of the area. You can also check out the antique market here on Mondays if you’re interested.
What to Do When It Rains
Nice doesn’t experience many rainy days; however, if you do encounter a couple during your holiday, don’t worry—there is still plenty to do.
When it rains in Nice, locals often take the opportunity to go shopping. Whether you are looking for luxury designer labels or brand names like Zara and Mango, there is a shopping area in Nice that’s perfect for you.
Another great rainy day activity is, of course, visiting the many museums located throughout the city. If you’re looking to learn about the city’s history, be sure to check out the Masséna Museum or the Museum of Natural History. For art enthusiasts, I recommend visiting the Matisse Museum or the Marc Chagall National Museum; both artists have connections to Nice.
November Events
The city of Nice always has some sort of event going on, from sporting events to dog walks and fundraisers, and November is no exception.
Each year, there is a marathon from Nice to Cannes, and this year it will take place on November 3rd, 2024. Participants run along the sea between the two cities, enjoying beautiful views the entire way. You can either participate or cheer them on from the sidelines. Whether you decide to join in or not, keep in mind that the Promenade des Anglais is usually closed for the race, along with some roads.
Throughout November, you will see crews decorating the city for the Christmas season, from the palm trees along the Promenade des Anglais to Place Masséna. You will also see the Christmas Market in Promenade du Paillon being set up, with the opening day on November 28th, so be sure to check it out if you’re in the city.
If you’re looking to escape the cold November weather, Nice is a fantastic option! Although the city experiences cooler temperatures and some rainy days, there is still plenty of sunshine to enjoy. With November being the shoulder season, you will also experience fewer crowds and great deals on flights and accommodations!