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France · duration itinerary

Nice 2 weeks

Nice offers a sun-drenched Mediterranean escape with a rich artistic heritage and vibrant street life perfect for a two-week immersion. The city truly shines with its stunning Promenade des Anglais, the colorful Old Town with its bustling markets like Cours Saleya, and world-class art museums such as the Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall. Spend your days exploring hidden alleyways, enjoying fresh seafood along the waterfront, and taking day trips to charming nearby villages. For a two-week stay, consider basing yourself in the Vieux Nice (Old Town) for immediate access to historic charm and lively atmosphere, or in the Carré d'Or for a more upscale experience with designer boutiques and elegant architecture. Both offer excellent walkability to attractions and public transport. An insider truth often missed is the surprising affordability of excellent local wines; seek out small bistros and wine bars away from the main tourist drag for exceptional value and authentic Provençal vintages. The seasonal nuance for September is mild weather and fewer crowds than peak summer, making it ideal for exploring.

Photo by Constantin on Unsplash

Your 14-day plan

PaceStandard

This 14-day itinerary for Nice offers a balanced exploration of the French Riviera for couples. It combines iconic landmarks like the Promenade des Anglais and Monaco with charming art villages like Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Eze. You'll indulge in delicious Niçoise cuisine, discover world-class art museums, and relax on beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Day trips to nearby gems like Monaco, Cannes, and Grasse are included, providing a comprehensive Riviera experience.

Day 1 · Nice

Arrival and Old Town Charm

$220–$420
  1. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE)
    transport hub

    The main international airport serving Nice and the French Riviera. It's well-connected with ground transportation options to the city center.

    • Consider pre-booking a taxi or rideshare for convenience.
  2. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Hotel O (example mid-range hotel)
    activity

    Check into your hotel and leave your luggage. Choose a hotel in the city center for easy access to attractions.

    → From Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, take bus line 12 or a taxi to the city center.
  3. Evening
    ~180 min
    Vieux Nice (Old Town)
    neighborhood

    Wander through the narrow, colorful streets of the historic Old Town, with its Baroque architecture, bustling markets, and charming squares.

    • Explore Cours Saleya for its flower market (mornings) and antique market (Mondays).
    • Get lost in the maze of streets; every corner offers a new discovery.
    → Walkable from most central hotels.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    La Merenda
    restaurant

    A highly-regarded, traditional Niçoise restaurant known for its authentic regional dishes. Reservations are essential.

    • Try the Socca, a chickpea flour pancake, and the Salade Niçoise.
    → Located in Vieux Nice.
Day 2 · Nice

Art and Seaside Promenade

$216–$355
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Musée Matisse
    museum

    Dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, this museum is housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa and features a comprehensive collection spanning his career.

    • The museum is located on the Cimiez hill, offering pleasant surroundings.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Musée Archéologique de Nice-Cimiez
    museum

    Adjacent to the Matisse Museum, this archaeological museum showcases artifacts from the Roman city of Cemenelum, with ruins visible on-site.

  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Promenade des Anglais
    landmark

    Nice's iconic seaside promenade, stretching along the Baie des Anges. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or enjoying the Mediterranean views.

    • Rent a bike or rollerblades for a more active experience.
    • Stop at one of the many blue chairs for a moment of relaxation.
    → Take bus line 5 from Cimiez down to the Promenade des Anglais.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Le Plongeoir
    restaurant

    A unique restaurant perched on rocks by the sea, offering fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views.

    • Book a table well in advance, especially for sunset views.
    → A pleasant walk along the Promenade des Anglais from the city center.
Day 3 · Nice

Castle Hill and Port Exploration

$110–$200
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Colline du Château (Castle Hill)
    viewpoint

    The historic heart of Nice, offering panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, the Old Town, and the port. Features a park, waterfall, and archaeological remains.

    • Take the free elevator from the port side for an easier ascent.
    • Explore the ruins of the ancient cathedral and castle.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Port Lympia
    neighborhood

    A picturesque harbor filled with yachts and fishing boats. Enjoy a stroll along the quays and admire the colorful buildings.

    → Walk down from Colline du Château or take a short bus ride.
  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC)
    museum

    Showcasing contemporary and modern art, with a focus on the Nice School and related movements. The rooftop offers great city views.

    • Look for works by Yves Klein and Niki de Saint Phalle.
    → Located near Place Garibaldi, a short walk from the port.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Le Bistrot du Port
    restaurant

    A casual yet popular bistro located in the port area, offering a good selection of seafood and regional dishes.

Day 4 · Nice

Day Trip to Monaco

$278–$437
  1. Morning
    ~25 min
    Train to Monaco-Monte Carlo
    transport hub

    Take a scenic train ride along the coast from Nice to the Principality of Monaco.

    • Purchase round-trip tickets for convenience.
  2. Morning
    ~90 min
    Prince's Palace of Monaco
    landmark

    Witness the Changing of the Guard (daily at 11:55 AM) and explore the historic palace, the official residence of the Monegasque sovereign.

    • The views from the palace square over the harbor are spectacular.
    → Short walk from Monaco-Monte Carlo train station.
  3. Midday
    ~120 min
    Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
    museum

    An impressive aquarium and museum dedicated to marine sciences, located dramatically on the side of a cliff.

    → A scenic walk from the Prince's Palace.
  4. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Monte Carlo Casino
    landmark

    An iconic symbol of Monaco, this grand casino is known for its opulent architecture and high-stakes gaming rooms.

    • Dress code applies for entry into certain gaming rooms; check requirements.
    → Take a local bus or walk from the Oceanographic Museum area.
  5. Evening
    ~90 min
    Restaurant Elsa (Monte Carlo)
    restaurant

    A Michelin-starred restaurant within the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel, offering refined, organic, and seasonal Mediterranean cuisine.

    → Short taxi ride or a longer walk from the Casino.
  6. Night
    ~25 min
    Train back to Nice
    transport hub

    Return to Nice after a day exploring Monaco.

Day 5 · Nice

Villefranche-sur-Mer and Coastal Views

$190–$316
  1. Morning
    ~15 min
    Train to Villefranche-sur-Mer
    transport hub

    A short and scenic train journey from Nice to the charming coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

  2. Morning
    ~120 min
    Old Town of Villefranche
    neighborhood

    Explore the medieval streets, colorful buildings, and the Citadel Saint-Elme of this picturesque fishing village.

    • Visit the Chapelle Saint-Pierre, decorated by Jean Cocteau.
    → Walkable from the train station.
  3. Midday
    ~120 min
    Plage des Marinières
    beach

    A lovely sandy beach located at the entrance of the bay, offering clear waters and beautiful views of the town and bay.

    → Short walk from the Old Town.
  4. Afternoon
    ~180 min
    Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Coastal Path
    activity

    A scenic walk along the peninsula, offering stunning sea views and access to hidden coves. You can visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

    • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk.
    → From Villefranche, take bus 15 or walk towards Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
  5. Evening
    ~90 min
    La Mère Germaine
    restaurant

    A classic restaurant in Villefranche-sur-Mer known for its excellent seafood and traditional Provençal cuisine.

    → Located in the heart of Villefranche.
  6. Night
    ~15 min
    Train back to Nice
    transport hub

    Return to Nice after a day of coastal exploration.

Day 6 · Nice

Local Markets and Perfume in Grasse

$171–$262
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Cours Saleya Market
    shopping

    Experience the vibrant flower and produce market in Vieux Nice. It's a feast for the senses with local specialties and crafts.

    • Go early for the best selection and to avoid crowds.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Bus to Grasse
    transport hub

    Take a bus from Nice to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.

  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Fragonard Perfume Museum
    activity

    Tour one of Grasse's historic perfumeries to learn about the art of perfume making, from raw ingredients to the final fragrance.

    • Free guided tours are available.
    → Located in Grasse.
  4. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Musée International de la Parfumerie
    museum

    Discover the history and evolution of perfume and cosmetics across cultures and centuries.

    → In the center of Grasse.
  5. Evening
    ~90 min
    Restaurant Les Arômes
    restaurant

    Enjoy a refined meal in Grasse, featuring local ingredients and creative French cuisine.

    → In Grasse.
  6. Night
    ~90 min
    Bus back to Nice
    transport hub

    Return to Nice after a day immersed in the world of perfume.

Day 7 · Nice

Art and Gardens in Eze

$245–$352
  1. Morning
    ~20 min
    Train to Eze-sur-Mer
    transport hub

    A scenic train journey along the coast to the medieval village of Eze.

  2. Morning
    ~90 min
    Jardin Exotique d'Èze
    park

    A stunning botanical garden perched high above the sea, featuring a vast collection of succulents and cacti, with breathtaking panoramic views.

    • The climb from Eze-sur-Mer station to the village is steep; consider a bus or taxi.
    → From Eze-sur-Mer station, take bus 83 to the village or a taxi. The garden is at the top of the village.
  3. Midday
    ~60 min
    Château d'Èze
    landmark

    Explore the medieval ruins and the exotic garden located at the summit of the village, offering unparalleled views.

    → The garden is part of the Eze village exploration.
  4. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Parfumerie Fragonard (Eze)
    activity

    Visit the Fragonard perfume factory and shop in Eze for a free tour and to discover their range of fragrances.

    → Located within the village of Eze.
  5. Evening
    ~120 min
    La Chèvre d'Or
    restaurant

    Experience fine dining with Michelin stars at this renowned restaurant, offering spectacular views and exquisite cuisine.

    • Reservations are essential and should be made far in advance.
    → Located in Eze village.
  6. Night
    ~20 min
    Train back to Nice
    transport hub

    Return to Nice from Eze-sur-Mer.

Day 8 · Nice

Saint-Paul-de-Vence Art Village

$208–$280
  1. Morning
    ~75 min
    Bus to Saint-Paul-de-Vence
    transport hub

    Take a bus from Nice to the picturesque hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, renowned for its art galleries.

  2. Morning
    ~150 min
    Fondation Maeght
    museum

    A world-class modern and contemporary art museum set in beautiful gardens, featuring works by Miró, Chagall, Calder, and Giacometti.

    • Allow ample time to explore the sculpture gardens.
    → A short walk or shuttle bus from the village entrance.
  3. Midday
    ~180 min
    Saint-Paul-de-Vence Old Village
    neighborhood

    Wander through the cobblestone streets, browse the numerous art galleries and artisan boutiques, and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

    • Look for the works of Marc Chagall, who is buried in the local cemetery.
    → The village is compact and best explored on foot.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    La Colombe d'Or
    restaurant

    A legendary inn and restaurant where artists like Picasso and Matisse once paid for their meals with artwork. Offers classic French cuisine.

    • Book well in advance; the restaurant is very popular.
    → Located within Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
  5. Night
    ~75 min
    Bus back to Nice
    transport hub

    Return to Nice after a day in the artistic village.

Day 9 · Nice

Nice Cimiez Exploration

$210–$305
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Musée National Marc Chagall
    museum

    Dedicated to the biblical message of Marc Chagall, this museum houses a significant collection of his works, including the 17 large canvases of the 'Message Biblique'.

    → Take bus line 5 to the Cimiez area.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Monastère de Cimiez
    landmark

    Visit the Franciscan monastery and its beautiful gardens, offering serene views over Nice. The church contains works by the Bréa brothers.

    → Located near the Matisse Museum and Musée Archéologique.
  3. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Arènes de Cimiez and Roman Baths
    landmark

    Explore the remains of Roman baths and a small amphitheater in the park of Cimiez, remnants of the ancient city of Cemenelum.

    → Adjacent to the Musée Archéologique.
  4. Evening
    ~120 min
    Le Chantecler (Hotel Negresco)
    restaurant

    Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at this Michelin-starred restaurant within the iconic Hôtel Negresco, known for its art collection and refined cuisine.

    • Dress code applies; smart attire is recommended.
    → Located on the Promenade des Anglais.
Day 10 · Nice

Day Trip to Cannes

$262–$355
  1. Morning
    ~35 min
    Train to Cannes
    transport hub

    Take a short and frequent train ride from Nice to the glamorous city of Cannes, famous for its film festival.

  2. Morning
    ~120 min
    La Croisette
    landmark

    Stroll along the famous boulevard, lined with luxury boutiques, sandy beaches, and the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

    • Look for the handprints of film stars on the Allée des Étoiles.
    → Walkable from the Cannes train station.
  3. Midday
    ~120 min
    Le Suquet (Old Town)
    neighborhood

    Explore the charming old quarter of Cannes, with its narrow streets, local shops, and the Musée de la Castre offering views over the bay.

    → A short uphill walk from La Croisette.
  4. Afternoon
    ~180 min
    Île Sainte-Marguerite
    activity

    Take a short ferry ride to this island paradise, known for its lush forests, coves, and the Fort Royal, where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned.

    • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the island.
    → Ferry departs from the Vieux Port in Cannes.
  5. Evening
    ~90 min
    Restaurant Table 22
    restaurant

    A well-regarded restaurant in Cannes offering creative, modern French cuisine in an intimate setting.

    → Located in Le Suquet.
  6. Night
    ~35 min
    Train back to Nice
    transport hub

    Return to Nice after a day in Cannes.

Day 11 · Nice

Nice Markets and Relaxation

$100–$160
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Marché aux Puces de Nice
    shopping

    Explore Nice's flea market for antiques, vintage items, and unique finds.

    • Best visited on a Saturday morning.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Lunch at a local Boulangerie
    restaurant

    Grab a casual and delicious lunch of sandwiches, quiches, or pastries from a local bakery.

    → Numerous options throughout the city.
  3. Afternoon
    ~180 min
    Plage de la Réserve
    beach

    A rocky beach area popular with locals for sunbathing and swimming, offering clear waters and a more relaxed atmosphere than the main city beaches.

    → Take bus line 38 or a taxi from the city center.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Bar des Oiseaux
    bar

    A lively and popular cocktail bar in Vieux Nice, known for its creative drinks and vibrant atmosphere.

    • Try their signature cocktails.
    → Located in Vieux Nice.
Day 12 · Nice

Art and Culture Deep Dive

$161–$255
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice (Musée Jules Chéret)
    museum

    Housed in a beautiful 19th-century villa, this museum features a diverse collection of fine arts, from Old Masters to Impressionist works.

  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Palais Lascaris
    museum

    A richly decorated 17th-century aristocratic palace in Vieux Nice, showcasing Baroque art and period furnishings.

    → Located in Vieux Nice.
  3. Afternoon
    ~45 min
    Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
    landmark

    The main Catholic cathedral in Nice, a stunning example of Baroque architecture located in the heart of the Old Town.

    → In Vieux Nice.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Restaurant Le Bistrot d'Antoine
    restaurant

    A charming and authentic bistro in Vieux Nice serving traditional Niçoise and French dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

    • Reservations are highly recommended.
    → In Vieux Nice.
Day 13 · Nice

Coastal Drive and Exploration (Optional Car Rental)

$215–$310
  1. Morning
    ~60 min
    Car Rental
    activity

    Rent a car for the day to explore the stunning Corniches roads and coastal villages at your own pace.

  2. Morning
    ~60 min
    Grande Corniche Viewpoint
    viewpoint

    Drive along the highest of the three coastal roads, offering spectacular panoramic views of the French Riviera, from Nice to Italy.

    → Access via the Grande Corniche road.
  3. Midday
    ~180 min
    Menton
    neighborhood

    Visit the charming town of Menton, known as the 'Pearl of France', famous for its colorful old town, lemon festival (in February), and Italianate architecture.

    • Explore the Jean Cocteau Museum.
    → Drive east along the coast from Nice.
  4. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Lunch in Menton
    restaurant

    Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Menton, perhaps trying some local specialties influenced by Italian cuisine.

  5. Evening
    ~60 min
    Return to Nice
    transport hub

    Drive back to Nice, enjoying the coastal scenery.

Day 14 · Nice

Departure

$155–$250
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Last Minute Souvenir Shopping
    shopping

    Pick up any last-minute gifts or mementos from local shops or markets.

  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Final Niçoise Lunch
    restaurant

    Enjoy one last taste of Nice's culinary delights at a local favorite.

  3. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE)
    transport hub

    Depart from Nice.

    → Allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures.

Insider tips

  • ◆Utilize the efficient regional train system for day trips.
  • ◆Book popular restaurants and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
  • ◆Learn a few basic French phrases; while English is common in tourist areas, locals appreciate the effort.
  • ◆Consider purchasing a 'Nice Pass' if you plan to visit many museums and attractions.
  • ◆Be aware of the local 'taxe de séjour' (tourist tax) which is usually included in hotel rates but may be separate for some rentals.

Packing highlights

  • ◆Lightweight clothing
  • ◆Swimsuit
  • ◆Comfortable walking shoes
  • ◆Sunscreen and hat
  • ◆A light jacket or sweater for evenings

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