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.
Your 14-day plan
PaceStandardThis 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.
Arrival and Old Town Charm
- Afternoon~60 minNice 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.
- Afternoon~120 minHotel 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. - Evening~180 minVieux 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. - Evening~90 minLa Merendarestaurant
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.
Art and Seaside Promenade
- Morning~120 minMusée Matissemuseum
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.
- Midday~60 minMusée Archéologique de Nice-Cimiezmuseum
Adjacent to the Matisse Museum, this archaeological museum showcases artifacts from the Roman city of Cemenelum, with ruins visible on-site.
- Afternoon~120 minPromenade des Anglaislandmark
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. - Evening~90 minLe Plongeoirrestaurant
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.
Castle Hill and Port Exploration
- Morning~120 minColline 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.
- Midday~60 minPort Lympianeighborhood
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. - Afternoon~120 minMusée 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. - Evening~90 minLe Bistrot du Portrestaurant
A casual yet popular bistro located in the port area, offering a good selection of seafood and regional dishes.
Day Trip to Monaco
- Morning~25 minTrain to Monaco-Monte Carlotransport hub
Take a scenic train ride along the coast from Nice to the Principality of Monaco.
- Purchase round-trip tickets for convenience.
- Morning~90 minPrince's Palace of Monacolandmark
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. - Midday~120 minOceanographic Museum of Monacomuseum
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. - Afternoon~60 minMonte Carlo Casinolandmark
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. - Evening~90 minRestaurant 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. - Night~25 minTrain back to Nicetransport hub
Return to Nice after a day exploring Monaco.
Villefranche-sur-Mer and Coastal Views
- Morning~15 minTrain to Villefranche-sur-Mertransport hub
A short and scenic train journey from Nice to the charming coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
- Morning~120 minOld Town of Villefrancheneighborhood
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. - Midday~120 minPlage des Marinièresbeach
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. - Afternoon~180 minSaint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Coastal Pathactivity
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. - Evening~90 minLa Mère Germainerestaurant
A classic restaurant in Villefranche-sur-Mer known for its excellent seafood and traditional Provençal cuisine.
→ Located in the heart of Villefranche. - Night~15 minTrain back to Nicetransport hub
Return to Nice after a day of coastal exploration.
Local Markets and Perfume in Grasse
- Morning~90 minCours Saleya Marketshopping
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.
- Midday~90 minBus to Grassetransport hub
Take a bus from Nice to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.
- Afternoon~90 minFragonard Perfume Museumactivity
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. - Afternoon~90 minMusée International de la Parfumeriemuseum
Discover the history and evolution of perfume and cosmetics across cultures and centuries.
→ In the center of Grasse. - Evening~90 minRestaurant Les Arômesrestaurant
Enjoy a refined meal in Grasse, featuring local ingredients and creative French cuisine.
→ In Grasse. - Night~90 minBus back to Nicetransport hub
Return to Nice after a day immersed in the world of perfume.
Art and Gardens in Eze
- Morning~20 minTrain to Eze-sur-Mertransport hub
A scenic train journey along the coast to the medieval village of Eze.
- Morning~90 minJardin Exotique d'Èzepark
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. - Midday~60 minChâteau d'Èzelandmark
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. - Afternoon~60 minParfumerie 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. - Evening~120 minLa Chèvre d'Orrestaurant
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. - Night~20 minTrain back to Nicetransport hub
Return to Nice from Eze-sur-Mer.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence Art Village
- Morning~75 minBus to Saint-Paul-de-Vencetransport hub
Take a bus from Nice to the picturesque hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, renowned for its art galleries.
- Morning~150 minFondation Maeghtmuseum
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. - Midday~180 minSaint-Paul-de-Vence Old Villageneighborhood
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. - Evening~90 minLa Colombe d'Orrestaurant
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. - Night~75 minBus back to Nicetransport hub
Return to Nice after a day in the artistic village.
Nice Cimiez Exploration
- Morning~90 minMusée National Marc Chagallmuseum
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. - Midday~60 minMonastère de Cimiezlandmark
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. - Afternoon~60 minArènes de Cimiez and Roman Bathslandmark
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. - Evening~120 minLe 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 Trip to Cannes
- Morning~35 minTrain to Cannestransport hub
Take a short and frequent train ride from Nice to the glamorous city of Cannes, famous for its film festival.
- Morning~120 minLa Croisettelandmark
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. - Midday~120 minLe 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. - Afternoon~180 minÎle Sainte-Margueriteactivity
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. - Evening~90 minRestaurant Table 22restaurant
A well-regarded restaurant in Cannes offering creative, modern French cuisine in an intimate setting.
→ Located in Le Suquet. - Night~35 minTrain back to Nicetransport hub
Return to Nice after a day in Cannes.
Nice Markets and Relaxation
- Morning~120 minMarché aux Puces de Niceshopping
Explore Nice's flea market for antiques, vintage items, and unique finds.
- Best visited on a Saturday morning.
- Midday~60 minLunch at a local Boulangerierestaurant
Grab a casual and delicious lunch of sandwiches, quiches, or pastries from a local bakery.
→ Numerous options throughout the city. - Afternoon~180 minPlage de la Réservebeach
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. - Evening~90 minBar des Oiseauxbar
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.
Art and Culture Deep Dive
- Morning~120 minMusée 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.
- Midday~60 minPalais Lascarismuseum
A richly decorated 17th-century aristocratic palace in Vieux Nice, showcasing Baroque art and period furnishings.
→ Located in Vieux Nice. - Afternoon~45 minCathédrale Sainte-Réparatelandmark
The main Catholic cathedral in Nice, a stunning example of Baroque architecture located in the heart of the Old Town.
→ In Vieux Nice. - Evening~90 minRestaurant Le Bistrot d'Antoinerestaurant
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.
Coastal Drive and Exploration (Optional Car Rental)
- Morning~60 minCar Rentalactivity
Rent a car for the day to explore the stunning Corniches roads and coastal villages at your own pace.
- Morning~60 minGrande Corniche Viewpointviewpoint
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. - Midday~180 minMentonneighborhood
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. - Afternoon~90 minLunch in Mentonrestaurant
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Menton, perhaps trying some local specialties influenced by Italian cuisine.
- Evening~60 minReturn to Nicetransport hub
Drive back to Nice, enjoying the coastal scenery.
Departure
- Morning~90 minLast Minute Souvenir Shoppingshopping
Pick up any last-minute gifts or mementos from local shops or markets.
- Midday~60 minFinal Niçoise Lunchrestaurant
Enjoy one last taste of Nice's culinary delights at a local favorite.
- Afternoon~60 minNice 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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