The Ultimate 4-day Itinerary for Nice, France - Best Niçoise Hotels, Restaurants, Local Food Guide, and Markets
Getting to Nice
✈️ Flying into Nice
By far the quickest way to get to Nice is by plane. Flights from Paris to Nice are available for as low as €40 if you book in advance.
For low-cost carriers, I recommend flying via EasyJet or RyanAir. Otherwise, look up Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights here:
Both international and domestic carriers fly into the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) so it's definitely possible to get a direct flight from your country of origin to this airport.
From there, it's only 30 minutes via public transport to the city center. I would highly recommend this option to get to your accommodation as it's cheap and efficient.
How to get from the Airport to the City Centre?
🚊Tram (best option)
Cost: €1.50
Take line 2 from either terminal 1 or 2 and ride 30 minutes all the way to your accommodation.
🚌Bus
Cost: €1.50
Bus number 12 takes you from the airport to the city centre in 25 minutes.
🚖Taxi
Cost: from €20
Ubers are a great option and are often cheaper than official taxis at around €20.
However, you might need to wait a while to get one. Otherwise, taking a flag-down taxi from the official Cote d'Azur Taxi will have a flat rate of €32.
🚆Train (recommended)
The main train station is Nice Ville.
By far one of the best ways to travel across France, especially if you're coming from Paris, is by the TGV (high-speed train railway system).
For as low as €30, you can skip the line at the airport and take the train directly from Paris Gare de Lyon to Nice Ville. The journey lasts for 6 hours and takes you to the city centre.
Train tickets are easily available on trainline.com which I have linked below:
🚘Car
Exit via n°50 to reach the Nice Promenade des Anglais
Exit via n°51 to reach Nice Saint-Augustin / Airport
How do I get around Nice?
🚊Tram
Nice's tram system is cheap, efficient, and reliable. It runs from the early morning starting from 430AM to a little past midnight.
Although individual tickets cost €1.50, purchasing 10 rides is offered at a discounted rate of €10. 4 days in Nice will likely have you taking more than 10 rides so get the bundle to save €0.50 per ride.
You might notice how some locals take the risk of not getting a ticket before boarding. However, I highly advise against that as the fine for boarding without a ticket is €60. I've seen quite a few cases of the train police pulling locals off the tram to issue fines.
❗️Important
Even if you have a ticket, you may still be fined €10 if you do not validate your ticket upon boarding. To validate it, insert your ticket into one of the yellow stalls located either on the platform or inside the train.
Upon validating, your ticket will allow for unlimited transport throughout the public transport network (bus included).
🚌Bus
Buses run on the same system as the trains. The same ticket for the trains is valid for the buses. Similarly, don't forget to validate your ticket upon boarding.
🚲Public Bike (Velo Bleu)
For those who want the French way of getting around the city, check out the Velo Bleu public bikes. You'll have to first sign up for an account online and purchase a 7-day pass for €10 via your credit card.
You can sign up for an account with the link here:
Do note that they have a holding fee of €150 when you borrow the bike as a deposit in case you don't return it.
After signing up, you can find one of the stalls located all over Nice (notably more at the Promenade des Anglais), select the option to rent a bike, and call the number (toll-free) provided on the screen.
Upon successful verification of your number, you can choose your bike by selecting the number on the screen.
The weekly subscription fee of €5 gets you free 30 minutes on the bike. After 30 minutes, it costs €1 for the next 30 minutes and €2 for the hour after that.
To return it, bring it back to any stall and insert the bike attachment into the slot. Give it a good yank for extra assurance that it's locked!
Protip: You can return the bike to another stall to refresh the 30 minutes. This way, you won't have to pay extra for additional minutes.
Where to stay in Nice?
Whether you're a budget-conscious backpacker or seeking a lavish escape, Nice has an array of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs.
From charming hostels to the iconic Hotel Negresco, there's something for everyone to make your stay in Nice truly unforgettable!
Legend
€€€€ - Luxury | €€€ - Above Average | €€ - Average Price | € - Budget
On a budget
For the budget-conscious travelers, Nice offers a variety of cozy and vibrant hostels that provide comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
Boutique hotels
A boutique hotel is your best friend when it comes to having a touch of elegance without splurging on luxury.
These smaller establishments often feature chic decor, well-designed rooms, and a cozy ambiance.
Luxury Seaview
For those looking for the finer side of life and savor the best views of the French Riviera, Nice has a fantastic selection of Seaview luxury hotels.
These upscale hotels not only provide stunning vistas of the sea but also offer tons of amenities and dining options to ensure you're well taken care of.
Day 1 - Historical Sights, Perfume Making, and Nicoise Cuisine
Explore the Vieux-Ville of Nice | 10AM - 1130AM
Start your day in the most charming neighborhood of the city. The old town is filled with narrow, winding streets lined with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants.
The Old Town of Nice
Wandering through the Old Town is like stepping back in time. The architecture reflects a blend of influences, from the Medieval to the Italian Baroque. Nice belonged to Italy till 1860, which explains the influence of Italian architecture on the old town.
Here are some of my favorite spots to check out when you're in the old town:
Old Town Landmarks
Old Town Food spots
Lunch at Pop-O-Thym Creperie | 12 pm - 1 pm
Cost: €12 - €15 pp.
Reservation is not required.
There's nothing better than having fresh French crepes whilst watching the world go by. Serving both savory and sweet crepes, this unassuming creperie is the best of both worlds.
For their savory crepes, order "La Cocotte" ( 6.80). This dish is filled with gooey Emmental cheese paired with thinly sliced ham wrapped in a perfectly fluffy crepe.
And for dessert, you can't go wrong with the signature "La Pop-O-Thym". Freshly cut bananas with chantilly with chocolate sauce on a warm crepe topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Climb the Castle Hill of Nice | 12 pm - 1 pm
Afterward, make your way to Castle Hill, a must-visit attraction in Nice. Originally built as a fortress, it was almost completely destroyed over the years due to a French invasion in 1706.
Now it stands as one of the most beautiful parks in Nice. With luscious greens that reminisce of being in the region of Tuscany, it is a serene place to soak in the summer vibes of the city.
It’s time to witness one of the most scenic views in all of Nice.
How to access the viewpoint?
From the old town, follow the Promenade des Anglais towards the direction of Castel Plage and you’ll see a long flight of stairs leading up to the top.
Upon reaching the top, the Castle Hill of Nice offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the azure waters of the Mediterranean.
💡Pro tip
Take the lift from the bottom of the hill right next to the stairs. Open from 10 am to 5.25 pm daily, it takes you to the top of the hill close to the viewpoint in a matter of seconds. Then take a leisurely 3-minute walk from the top to the viewpoint.
To get here, climb from the panoramic viewpoint till you reach a main road. From there, follow the road to the left till you reach the waterfall.
View Port Lympia from Above | 130pm-2 pm
What is lesser known about this park is that it also boasts stunning vistas of the Port Lympia of Nice down below. To reach this viewpoint, you'll need to hike further into the park towards the winding path in the direction of the port.
Visit the Monument to the Dead of Rauba-Capeu | 2 pm - 245 pm
At the bottom of Castle Hill on Quai Rauba Capeau in Place Guynemer stands the Monument aux Morts, a 32-meter-high war memorial honoring 4,000 people of Nice who lost their lives in World War I.
Designed by Roger Seasal, this historical centerpiece in Nice blends seamlessly with Castle Hill, featuring a neutral white look adorned with green shrubs and rocks from the hill.
Photo session at the #ILoveNICE | 245PM -315PM
No trip to Nice is complete until you've had your iconic photo taken at this little sign. It's almost like the Eiffel Tower of Nice.
Located at the foot of the castle hill of Nice, you'll see this photo spot on your way back to the city center of Nice.
Perfume making at Molinard | 330pm - 415pm
Try your hand at making your own South of France perfume here! The staff is welcoming and will guide you on how to choose your scent notes.
It's a great place to get your souvenirs here. Create a scent that you think might smell good for your significant other!
Check out Villa Masséna Musée | 430pm - 545pm
Villa Masséna stands as a 19th Century architectural jewel on the tree-lined Promenade des Anglais.
The villa houses exceptional Empire-style reception rooms adorned with decorations from the castle of Govone in Piedmont. The garden, designed by landscaper Edouard André, adds to its charm.
Dinner at La Cucina | 6 pm - 745 pm
Cost: €30 - €40
This is hands down the best meal I had in France.
La Cucina is a cozy little restaurant seating roughly 30 people at its maximum capacity. Once rated as no. 1 on TripAdvisor, this restaurant is deserving of every bit of fame.
Although the opening is at 630pm, I highly recommend you come at 6 pm to start queuing in advance. Reservations are not accepted, showcasing just how popular this place truly is. To secure a table, you must arrive at least 15 minutes before opening time, as the first slot fills up quickly.
If you miss it, you'll have to patiently wait for the first 30 guests to finish their meals before being seated.
Canard a l’Orange (€22)
The dish that blew my mind was the Margret de Canard with orange sauce. At first, I was skeptical about the combination of orange and meat, but La Cucina proved me wrong. The sweetness of the orange paired superbly with the umami flavour of the duck breast.
Lamb Shank cooked for 8 hours (€30)
The lamb shank was a true masterpiece. The meat was unbelievably tender, effortlessly falling off the bone. Each bite was a burst of flavor, enhanced by the tangy berry sauce that accompanied it.
Not to mention the plate was carefully decorated with a kaleidoscope of colors from the fresh salad and cherry tomatoes accompanying the dish.
Crème Brûlée (€8) and Tiramisu (€8)
To conclude your meal, indulge in their crème brûlée and Tiramisu. This classic dessert exceeded all expectations. The velvety smooth and creamy texture of the custard is a delight to the palate while the tiramisu is just the right amount of mascarpone cheese to coffee ratio,
Watch the sunset at Waka Bar | 8 pm - 10 pm
The perfect bar where locals come to grab a cocktail and watch the sunset over the horizon. This is the perfect place to end your first day in Nice.
Day 2: Cours Saleya Market and Local Food Experiences
Explore the Cours Saleya Market | 11 am - 1230pm
Start your day with a visit to the lively Cours Saleya market in the old town of Nice. This time, soak in the lively atmosphere of the morning market, where you'll find an array of local produce, spices, and artisanal goods at the fruits and vegetable market.
Depending on the day and time of the week you're visiting, the market vendors changes.
Fruit and Vegetable market
- Open all week from 7AM - 1PM except Monday
Flower Market
- Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 6AM - 530PM
- Wednesday and Saturday 630AM - 630PM
- Sunday from 630AM - 130PM
- Monday closed
Antiques Market
- Every Monday from 7AM - 6PM
A must-try street food from the market is the socca from Chez Theresa. It's a chickpea flatbread that's perfect for a quick breakfast.
La Place Garibaldi | 1230 pm - 130 pm
Just a 5-minute walk from the Cours Saleya market, you will arrive at Place Garibaldi. Place Garibaldi in Nice is a captivating square steeped in history and charm.
Named in honor of Italian revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi, it serves as a focal point in the city's heart. The square is adorned with elegant red facades and arches, showcasing a classic architectural style.
What sets Place Garibaldi apart is its regular flea market every third Saturday of the month.
The square transforms into a bustling marketplace on these special days, teeming with stalls filled with vintage treasures, antiques, arts and crafts, and unique finds.
Seafood Lunch at Cafe de Turin | 130 pm - 3 pm
Cost: €35 - €50pp.
Reservations are not required.
Cafe de Turin in Nice is a seafood lover's paradise that serves one of the freshest catches of the day. Everyone local knows that this restaurant in Nice is the go-to spot for your seafood cravings.
Nestled in the charming Place Garibaldi, this alfresco dining gem offers a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy both delectable seafood and the picturesque views of the beautiful square.
Here's what I would recommend:
Panache Special N*2 (€40)
For those who love oysters but would also like an extra variety of seafood for tasting, go for the Panache Special N*2 platter. This platter comes with 8 of the freshiest oysters I've had together with 2 clams, 4 raw mussels, 4 small prawns, 200g sea snails, grey shrimps, and small sea snails.
Assiette Froide de Fruits de Mer Cuits (Cold Seafood Platter; €42)
This cold seafood platter showcases an impressive array of flavors. With half an Atlantic crab, a king prawn, three langoustines, four small prawns, 200g of sea snails, and petite grey shrimps, the platter is a treasure trove of the freshest seafood.
6 Huitres Speciales N2 (Oysters; €26)
For those who prefer a no-frills oyster party, you're also able to order them separately without the rest of the seafood. These jewels of the sea were so fresh, with each oyster boasting an enormous size that could fill the palm of my hand.
Order the “Huitres Speciales Numero 2” if you have a preference for fat oysters! Priced at €4 each or €26 for a half dozen, they were a true indulgence.
Lounge at Castel Plage (optional) | 3 pm - 6 pm
Cost: €40 - €50pp.
Reservation is not required.
Did you really go to Nice if you've never been to a seaside bar?
There’s no better way to enjoy the South of France than to lay on a sunbed after a full belly of the freshest seafood. One of the highlights of this beach club is the option to rent a sunbed, allowing you to bask in the warm Mediterranean sun while enjoying the stunning coastal views.
For a reasonable fee of 25 euros per person, you can secure your own comfortable sunbed and soak up the sun's rays in style. The sunbeds are thoughtfully arranged to provide ample space and privacy, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the beach at your own pace.
If you have a bit more to spare, order a glass of white wine to get the quintessential South of France experience!
Lounge at the Plage des Ponchettes | 3pm- 6pm
Cost: Free
For those on a budget, you still can experience a wonderful time at the public beach next to Castel Plage. Get a bottle of wine or an ice-cold beer from the supermarket and you'll have a similar experience minus the sundeck. The best part? It's completely free.
I would highly recommend buying a parasol €10 from the Cours Saleya market to protect you from the Sun.
💡Protip
The pebbled beach in Nice can be painful to walk on. Bring along a pair of flip-flops or sandals for a pleasant experience strolling on the beach. A towel will also be useful as the pebbles can be scorching hot during summer at midday.
Dinner at Chez Acchiardo | 615pm - 745pm
Cost: €35
Chez Acchiardo is a fourth-generation family-run restaurant that has been delighting diners with traditional Nicoise cuisine since 1927.
Stepping into this charming establishment is like taking a step back in time, as it exudes a classic French ambiance that transports you to a vintage cave.
My first visit to Chez Acchiardo was on my graduation trip back in 2016. I can vividly recall the mouthwatering experience of savoring their Steak Frites, which remains one of the best steaks I've ever had.
However, it took me quite a while to rediscover this gem as Google Maps wasn't as extensive back then. It was during a recent exploration in 2023 in the old town of Nice that I stumbled upon Chez Acchiardo once again.
Filet de Boeuf Grillé Beurre Maître d'Hôtel au basilic (€28)
Grilled Beef Fillet with Basilic Butter
Probably one of the best steaks in Nice is found right here in this restaurant. The filet de boeuf simply melts in your mouth. It's so tender, you could eat it with a fork.
Côtes d’Agneau Grillées aux herbes de Provence (€19)
(Grilled Lamb Chops seasoned with Provencal herbs)
The Grilled Lamb Chops seasoned with Provencal herbs are a must-try. The lamb was cooked to medium-rare perfection, tender, and full of flavor. As you take that first bite, the juicy meat melts in your mouth, and the flavors of thyme, rosemary, and oregano transport you to heaven.
Sunset at Farago on the Roof | 8 pm - 10 pm
Cost: €12 - €18 per cocktail
Reservations are required for this restaurant.
This rooftop bar has a stunning view of the ocean horizon accompanied by great live music.
Serving delicious tapas (if dinner wasn't enough) and a wide selection of drinks, this is the perfect way to end your second day in Nice.
Day 3: Flea Market and Beach Hopping
Visit Port Lympia | 10 am - 11 pm
Start your 3rd day in Nice by strolling along Port Lympia de Nice. A picturesque harbor where you can admire the boats bobbing in the water and soak up the maritime atmosphere.
Ranging from luxury yachts costing millions to small privately owned fishing boats, you'll see all kinds of vessels in this small harbor. Port Lympia has a nice promenade lined with palm trees that's perfect for a morning walk.
Shop for Antiques at the Flea Market of Nice | 11 am - 12 pm
A flea market near the Old Port with 30+ little storefronts and open-air antique stalls. Find attic treasures, vintage clothing, and more - all of great quality.
Market enthusiasts love this spot and often end up with more than they can pack. Antiques are out in the open, and the owners are super friendly. You can join the search, ask for discounts on various items, or just sit back with a coffee and watch others hunt for treasures.
Lunch at Bocca Nissa | 1230pm - 145pm
Cost: €30
Indulge in rich and tasty Mediterranean cuisine with your friends, sharing tapas and dishes like hummus, halloumi fritto, and octopus.
Check out the highlight of this place which is the lush green rooftop.
Make your reservations here:
Visit the most famous cliffside restaurant in Nice - La Plongeoir | 2 pm - 215 pm
La Plongeoir is a stunning cliffside restaurant that has gone insanely viral on social media. I wouldn't recommend eating here as the food is mediocre but has exorbitant prices as you pay mostly for the view.
Instead, a short viewing of the restaurant along the coastline to admire the exterior is still a must-do.
How to get to La Plongeoir:
🚌Bus
Take bus 38 from the city centre to La Reserve. From there, it's only a minute walk to the restaurant.
🚊Tram
Alight at Line 2 Port Lympia and walk 15 minutes to the beach by following the coastline along the port.
🚲Velo Bleu
From the city centre, grab a bike and cycle around 7-10 minutes from Port Lympia. Drop off your bike at station N*29 located at Parc Vigier.
If you really want to dine here, make your reservations through the link down below:
Lounge at the Plage des Bains Militaires | 215 pm - 4 pm
This quiet beach just 2 minutes from La Plongeoir, away from the hustle of Nice center, offers a serene escape. With rocks extending on either end, finding a spacious spot is easy.
Limited facilities with just a shower, but fear not! You can grab snacks at the nearby takeaway kiosk on Boulevard Franck Pilatte or head to Le Saint Juan, a charming brasserie just a few minutes walk away.
Visit Coco Beach | 430 pm -630 pm
One of the highlights of Coco Beach is its cliff diving opportunities. Adrenaline seekers can take a plunge from the cliffs into the azure waters below. As I stood at the edge of the cliff, I hesitated for a moment and never got back the courage to jump!
Here's how Coco Beach looks like:
Pizza Pili by the Beach | 7 pm - 830 pm
Cost: €10 - €12 pp.
Reservations are not required as only takeaway options are available
After splurging on beach clubs and restaurants, you’ll probably want to look for a budget alternative for dinner. And I’ve got just the pizzeria for that!
This spot looks unassuming but it's known by virtually everyone who lives in Nice and it comes highly recommended! Only takeaways are available so bring your piping hot pizza to the Plage Publique de l'Opera and have a scenic picnic by the beach.
There's no better way to end the long day of beach-hopping than having a chill pizza night whilst watching the sun go down.
This is the view you will have to end your 3rd day in Nice:
Day 4: Villefranche-sur-Mer Day Trip and Retail Therapy
Grab Bread from Boulangerie for a Picnic | 9 am - 930am
For your last day, we'll be heading to Villefranche-sur-Mer for a beachside picnic. Start off the day by getting some French bread from the city center of Nice. You'll bring it to your beach location!
Here are 3 boulangeries I recommend:
Visit the Scenic Plage des Marinieres Beach | 10am - 12 pm
Embark on one of the best day trips from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a lovely coastal village just a 8-minute train ride from Nice.
Pastel-Coloured Architecture in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Although the town is beautiful, the beach is the star of the show. Unlike the pebbled beach in Nice, Plage des Marinieres is a fine sand beach. This makes it so much more comfortable to walk on.
Did I also mention that the water is even clearer than in Nice?
How to get to Plage des Marinieres?
🚆Train
The fastest way is definitely by train.
Take the train from "Nice Ville" train station to the station "Villefranche-sur-Mer. Book your train tickets in advance on Trainline. They'll send you a QR code on your phone which you can use as your E-ticket to pass through the gantries.
Otherwise, you can also buy the physical ticket at the Nice Ville station. Do be warned that the queue for the ticket machines is quite long during peak hours. Highly advised to book via the link down below:
Upon alighting, follow the flight of stairs down and you will immediately see the Plage des Marinieres.
Seaside Lunch at Villefranche | 12 pm - 1 pm
Cost: €30 - €35
Reservation is not required.
If you have the budget, having oysters by one of the seaside restaurants is always a good idea! Espuma in Villefranche-sur-Mer serves plump oysters right by the sea with a gorgeous view of the coastline.
Cost: €20 - €25
Reservations are required.
Les Garcons serves up an amazing French meal that will keep you satisfied for the rest of the day. Try their delicious burrata and their tasty ceviches, you won't go wrong with them!
They also have really value-for-money €21 set lunches.
Ice cream at Abacaxi Glacier | 1 pm - 130 pm
A small ice cream boutique that has only about 15-20 flavours but they are real deal. Get an ice cream cone from this spot and slowly stroll through the small town.
Viewpoint at Boulevard Napoléon III | 145 pm - 215 pm
To get an even better view of the town, head up to the Boulevard Napoléon III. It's about a 15-minute walk from the town and it is so worth it. I mean just look at that view!
Visit the Fontaine du Soleil | 3 pm - 315 pm
After spending half a day at Villefranche-sur-Mer, it's time to head back to Nice for some last-minute shopping.
Once you get back to Nice, don't miss the iconic Fontaine du Soleil. Located in the heart of the city, this magnificent fountain is a true symbol of Nice's rich history and artistic heritage.
The fountain itself is adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings, depicting various mythical figures and representations of the sun.
Shopping at Avenue de Jean Médecin | 330 pm - 6 pm
This is the main shopping street in Nice. The creme de la creme if you will of branded goods. There is almost every brand on this street, from luxury brands like Chanel to fashion brands like Zara.
You won't find boutique shops here too often. If that's what you're looking for then the Old Town of Nice is more your kind of vibe. Often, people come to this street to get their French luxury goods fix as it's known to be cheaper in France.
Department stores to check out:
Dinner at Geppetto | 6 pm - 730 pm
Cost: €20 - €28
Reservation is required for this restaurant.
Salmon Ravioli (€19)
Order the Salmon Ravioli if you're like me and can't resist a good portion of well-seasoned salmon with delicious ravioli. I believe it was filled with spinach but I can't confirm. Nonetheless, it was such a tasty meal that kept me wanting more!
Spaghetti Vongole (€16)
Packed with the flavor of the ocean, the vongole pasta was hands down the best pasta I've had in my life. Each clam was a burst of saltiness and umami. Perfectly al dente spaghetti coated with white wine and clam broth is the best way to end the last meal in Nice.
And voila, that's how to spend the perfect 4 days in Nice!
In conclusion, exploring Nice, France, in just four days can be an unforgettable experience filled with enchanting sights, mouthwatering cuisine, and a touch of French elegance.
From strolling through the charming streets of Vieux-Nice to witnessing breathtaking views atop Castle Hill, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and relaxation.
Bon voyage mes amis!
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