Nice

Nice Travel Guide

• About Nice

With the Mediterranean lapping at its shores, Nice’s prime position on the Côte d’Azur is its biggest draw for tourists. Don’t expect miles of golden sand – the beach is stony and rugged, though invariably packed with bronzed sunbathers. Yet there’s still much to recommend beyond sun and sea in France’s fifth biggest city. Nice has museums and galleries aplenty, as well as decadent nightlife and the distinct Niçoise culture to gorge on. The best way of getting to know the city is by wandering its network of alleys and lanes in the historic Old Town. There, you can shake off the hordes of less adventurous tourists and discover the city’s finer bars and restaurants. Be sure to try socca, a dish like a crepe but made from chickpea flour, and a glass or two of the local rosé. Meanwhile, Le Chateau, or Castle Hill, is a must-see for its lush vegetation, crumbling ruins, and splendid views of the city below. In the handsome city centre, spend some time in Nice’s largest civic space, Place Masséna, whose redevelopment presaged a drive to refashion the city. Nowadays, traffic-clogged roads have given way to parks, gardens and tram lines. The ugly bus station was demolished to make way for the new Promenade du Paillon, a 1.2km-long (0.75 mile) green corridor connecting the National Theatre to the seaside. The new Allianz Riviera stadium is a similarly stunning feat of ecological architecture, producing more energy than it consumes. While it might sound like Nice has ditched the Dior bags of yore for gardening gloves, the glamour of the Côte d’Azur is still present and thriving. Millionaires’ yachts jostle for space in the harbour and you’ll find no shortage of  prestigious bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Sure, Nice might not have the same exclusivity that its fin-de-siècle high society patrons once sought, but this bustling city has plenty of history, greenery, and class to keep visitors well-entertained.

• Nice History

The Nice area is thought to be home to one of the earliest human settlements in Europe, given the evidence of prehistoric man found at the nearby archaeology site of Terra Amata. The city proper has its roots in a Greek city called Nikaia in the 4th century BC, before the Romans built a rival adjacent town called Cemenelum. In the centuries following, Nice was subject to many different invaders, including Barbarians, Ligurians and Saracens, all of whom coveted the city’s strategic position on the Mediterranean. Seeking stability, the Nicoise placed themselves under the protection of the House of Savoy in 1388, which came to control most of the Italian Peninsula. Yet instead of stability, Nice spent the ensuing centuries buffeting between French and Italian hands. In 1860, the city finally landed in French control, despite being the birthplace of the fabled Italian liberator, Giuseppe Garibaldi. In the years that followed, Nice became a trendy destination for the bourgeois, especially wealthy English visitors who built grand houses and developed the main seafront esplanade – hence why it’s called the Promenade des Anglais. After centuries of turmoil, Nice became the ultimate tourist destination in the 19th century. The Regina Hotel in Cimiez was built especially for her majesty Queen Victoria, a regular visitor. These were the halcyon days of the Belle Epoque. The city emerged relatively unscathed from both World Wars in the 20th century, but the splendour of the Belle Epoque had faded. Nice was no longer exclusive to royalty and nobles. Rather unfairly, the writer Somerset Maugham described the Cote d’Azure’s new visitors as ‘shady people’. Since then, Nice has continued to grow in both size and popularity. Today, it is France’s fifth largest city and remains one of the biggest draws for foreign tourists visiting the country.

• Did you know?

The Nice area’s early human ancestors ventured here some 400,000 years ago. It’s popularly said that the great leader of Italian unification, Garibaldi, was so upset by Nice passing under French control in 1860 that his statue in the city’s Place Garibaldi points towards Italy. It actually points north, to both Italy and France. The city’s name comes from the Greek Nike, meaning victory, and was called such to celebrate the Greeks’ victory over the Ligurians.

• Weather in Nice

Nice enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate so expect plenty of sunshine, mild winters and moderate rainfall.

• Spring (March to May) sees temperatures increase gradually from 12°C (54°F) to 17°C (63°F). May is a great time to visit Nice if you want to soak in the sun but avoid the masses. 
• Summer (June to August) is hot with plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to visit Nice if you want to swim in the warm ocean and enjoy great festivals. However, hotel prices also go up in line with the thermometer (averaging around 27°C/82°F in July). 
• Autumn (September to November) is quieter in Nice. October and November are also the wettest months. With temperatures dropping to 13°C (55°F) in November, be sure to pack some warm jumpers for the cool evenings.                                                                
• Winter (December to February) is mild with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F), attracting sun-seekers from across Europe. 

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Things to see in Nice

Attractions

• Place Masséna

The vast Place Masséna, recognisable by the charming arcaded buildings that flank the square’s north side, has been the centre of the city since its construction in the 1840s. The city’s tram network flows seamlessly past the innovative artwork of Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, whose permanent exhibition features seven statues representing the seven continents. Address: Plassa Carlou Aubert, Nice Opening times: Daily 24 hours. Admission Fees: No. Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Parc de la Colline du Château

This lofty park, site of Castle Hill, rises above the city centre, offering a shady place to relax on hot summer days. The King Louis XIV’s soldiers may have destroyed its original castle 300 years ago, but the views of Nice and the Mediterranean are worth the uphill walk or you can just take a free lift. Address: Rue des Ponchettes, Nice. Opening times: Daily 8:30-20:00. Website: www.nice.fr Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Promenade des Anglais

This waterfront boulevard still retains a belle époque charm, with grand hotels on one flank and the Mediterranean on the other. It’s a popular haunt for everyone from strollers to in-line skaters – and wide enough to accommodate them all. Bag a blue lounger if you want to bask in the sun. Address: Promenade des Anglais, Nice. Opening times: Daily 24 hours Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Plage Publique des Ponchettes

Right opposite Vieux Nice, Plage Publique des Ponchettes is a pebbly beach throngs with bronzed bodies relaxing or playing a game of beach volleyball while operators hiring out catamarans and jet skis. There are dozens of shops and cafes around the area too. Address: Plage Publique des Ponchettes, Nice. Opening times: Daily 24 hours. Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

• Old Town (Vieux Nice)

The backstreets of Nice’s Old Town are filled with cosy cafés, baroque churches, charming boutiques and flâneurs (strollers). Running parallel to the seafront is the Cours Saleya, the venue for one of the most vibrant local markets in southern France. Address: Vieille Ville, , Nice. Opening times: Daily 24 hours Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Musée Matisse

Housed in a stunning Genoese villa and surrounded by a peaceful olive grove, Musée Matisse showcases the diverse work of former Nice resident, Henri Matisse. Don’t expect any English explanations. Art devotees can also visit his nearby grave in the Monastère de Cimiez, a monastery in a respectable suburb just north of the city. Address: 164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9381 0808 Opening times: Wed-Mon 11:00-18:00. Website: www.musee-matisse-nice.org  Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Musée National Marc Chagall

Dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, this fantastic museum exhibits some of his most famous pieces, including the 17 Biblical Message paintings. There are also fascinating displays of sculptures, mosaics, stained glass windows, and tapestries. In all, it’s the largest collection of the Russian-French artist’s works in public hands. Address: 36 Avenue du Docteur Ménard, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9353 8720 Opening times: Daily 10:00-18:00. Website: www.musees-nationaux-alpesmaritimes.fr Admission Fees: Yes. Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de Nice

Celebrating the rich biodiversity of the Mediterranean, this natural history museum has more than one million botanical, zoological, and geological specimens. Founded in 1846 by naturalist Jean Baptiste Vérany and botanist Jean-Baptiste Barla, it showcases natural marvels from around the world in a remarkable reminder of the region’s incredible flora and fauna. Address: 60 Boulevard Risso, Nice Telephone: +33 4 9713 4680 Opening times: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00. Website: www.mhnnice.org  Admission Fees: Yes. Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

• Villa Masséna

This elegant 19th-century villa showcases art that tells the story of Nice during the halcyon days of the late 19th century when visitors discovered the pleasures of wintering on the French Riviera. Works date from the late 19th to the early 20th century, and the lavish gardens are worth the entry fee alone. Address: 65 Rue de France, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9391 1910 Opening times: Wed-Mon 10:00-18:00. Website: www.massena-nice.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC)

In a strikingly designed gallery, this exhibition features over 400 works of modern art, which document groundbreaking artistic movements from the 1960s to the present day. Big names such as Warhol, Wesselmann and Lichtenstein are displayed alongside some of France’s most celebrated avant-garde artists, with plenty of visiting exhibitions on offer too. Address: Place Yves Klein, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9713 4201 Opening times: Daily 11:00-18:00. Website: www.mamac-nice.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice

There are a number of interesting works on display in this impressive cultural oasis, which is housed in a lavish, late 19th-century building. Sculptures by Rodin and Degas mingle with paintings by Van Loo, Fragonard, Dufy, Rodin, and Monet, with works of art ranging from the 13th to the 20th century. Well worth a visit. Address: 33 Avenue des Baumettes, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9215 2828 Opening times: Tue-Sun 11:00-18:00. Website: www.musee-beaux-arts-nice.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

• Promenade du Paillon

Nice’s green credentials received a boost in 2013 with the construction of this 12-hectare (30-acre) urban park that swivels its way from the modern art museum all the way down to the Promenade des Anglais. In place of the old, less savoury bus station, there are beautifully landscaped exotic gardens, shimmering water fountains, a reflecting pool, and children’s playgrounds. Address: Plassa Carlou Aubert, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9725 4900 Opening times: Daily 07:00-23:00. Website: www.nice.fr Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

• Tourist Offices

The city’s main tourist office is located right in the city centre. The helpful staff can offer insider information as well as maps and brochures. They can also arrange tours and accommodation, as well as excursions outside of the city. Other branches of the tourist office are located in Terminal 1 of the airport and in the main railway station on Avenue Thiers. Nice Tourist Office – (Office du Tourisme et des Congrès) Address: 5 Promenade des Anglais, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9214 4614 Opening times: Mon-Sat 09:00-18:00. Website: www.explorenicecotedazur.com

• Tourist passes

The French Riviera Pass , which covers 24 to 72 hours, gives you free entry to museums, guided tours and other attractions including an open-top bus tour and a tourist train. You can add a transport option too, and the pass covers attractions and tours in Antibes, Monaco, Cagnes and neighbouring villages including Eze and Villefranchesur-Mer. Since January 2015, Nice’s museums are no longer free, so the pass is a good option if you want to cover the cultural highlights. Website: www.frenchrivierapass.com

Things to do in Nice

• Follow in the footsteps of a famous French philosopher

The French Riviera is not all watery thrills; in fact some of the best days out require no money at all. Coastal walks to the east of Nice offer endless sea views and beautiful mountain backdrops. Follow in the footsteps of Nietzsche: the philosopher’s trail, Nietzsche’s Path, runs from Nice to Èze.

• Go wreck diving in the Cote d’Azur

The Cote d’Azur has some fantastic dive sites and Nice is an ideal place to base yourself if you want to explore them. There are some great wrecks and caves nearby, which suit a wide range of abilities from novices to advanced divers.offers beginner courses and excursions. Nice Diving Telephone: +33 614 460 406 Website: www.nicediving.com 

• Keep your balance with some wakeboarding

The azure waters of the Mediterranean are the ideal place to discover wakeboarding. The learning curve may be wet but at least it’s warm. offers lessons for beginners and tours for experienced wakeboarders. For those who fancy something a little more futuristic, the operator also rents Flyboards. Nice-based Glisse Paradise Telephone: +33 618 294 618 Website: www.glisseparadise.com

• Pull a pose on a jet ski

In many ways the jet ski is a metaphor for Nice; flashy, brash, and frivolous. And if you’d like to scythe your way through the water like some of the local posers then speak with Jet Evasion. If you want the thrill without the posturing, they also offer banana boat rides. Jet Evasion Telephone: +33 619 546 678  Website: www.jetevasion.net

• Boat rides

Take a picturesque ride to Digne-les-Bains For an easy day trip, hop on the 151km (94-mile), narrow-gauge ‘Pine Cone Train’ for one of Provence’s most picturesque rides to Digne-les-Bains. The medieval village of Entrevaux makes a good lunch stop.

• Wine tasting in Bellet

High in the hills, 9km (5 miles) northwest of Nice, is the tiny wine-producing area of Bellet. You can tour the picturesque vineyards before indulging in a tasting. Outstanding estates include Chateau de Bellet and Château de Crémat.

Nice tours and excursions

• Nice tours

Segway tours Even the local plod are using these self-balancing vehicles to get around nowadays, such is their popularity in Nice. Tourists are able to join in the fun and hire these novel transportation devices to take them on a memorable adventure around the city. Mobilboard tours focus on Promenade des Anglais. Telephone: +33 4 9380 2127 Website: www.mobilboard.com  Walking tours The tourist office lists various walking itineraries on its website, removing the need for an organised guided tour, but those who want to see the city with a guide can book three-hour trips at the main tourist office. These tours focus mainly on the Old Town and can be led in French or English. Telephone: +33 4 9214 4614 Website: www.explorenicecotedazur.com

• Nice excursions

Monaco Less than an hour away by train is the moneyed principality of Monaco. A spin on the roulette wheel at the famous Casino Monte Carlo is a bank busting optional extra, while a cheaper choice is the waterfront public swimming pool, which becomes an ice-skating rink in winter. Telephone: +377 92 166 166 Website: www.visitmonaco.com Chemins de Fer de Provence Trundling old diesel trains ramble up the steep hillsides, delving into Nice’s hinterland and onto the town of Digne-les-Bains. It’s a good day trip option, and a world away from the busy coast, especially in the height of summer when temperatures soar. Steam trains run every Sunday from early May to late October. Telephone: +377 92 166 166 Website: www.cpzou.fr

Shopping in Nice

Nice is a paradise for shoppers and you don’t have to have a platinum card to enjoy the experience. Yes, it helps some of the wares on offer in the city’s boutiques fetch a small fortune—but there are plenty of independent retailers, high street brands, and markets to cater for all budgets. The so-called ‘golden triangle’ of posh boutiques defied the recent global financial crisis and it seems like business as usual on the high street as well, where bag-laden consumers keep up with the latest trends. Away from the commercialism of the city centre, traditional markets and independent retailers are thriving, especially in the leafy suburbs where you can pick up anything from antiques and local crafts to fruit, and flowers.

• Key areas 

The Avenue Jean Medecin is Nice’s equivalent of London’s Oxford Street – you’ll find most major high street brands here. However, if money is burning a hole in your Louis Vuitton bag, then head to the ‘golden triangle,’ which is home to some of the city’s most exclusive boutiques and artisan food shops. Scattered between Rue Paradis, Rue Alphonse, and Rue De Verdun, the ‘golden triangle’ is a good spot for people watching if nothing else; here, window-shopping tourists gaze aghast at the prices, while Nice’s beautiful people flutter between boutiques like butterflies. Those looking to take home some quality wine should head for the renowned Cave 35 at 35 Rue de la Buffa.

• Markets

Between Tuesday and Sunday, check out the Flower Market on Cours Saleya, which proliferates with bright and fragrant flowers as well as fruit and veg. Flowers can be delivered to any location in France as well as abroad. In summer there is a nightly arts and crafts market geared towards tourists in the same location. There is also a great food market north of the station along Avenue Malaussena, which specialises in fresh fish, fruit and vegetables.

• Shopping centres

The two biggest shopping centres in Nice, Nicetoile and Galeries Lafayette can be found down Avenue Jean Médecin, along with a host of other mainstream retailers.

• Opening hours

Generally speaking opening hours are between 09:00 and 19:00, but times vary depending on the retailer.

• Souvenirs

If you’re looking to pick up souvenirs, head to the Old Town in the evening. Street vendors sell a variety of arts and crafts, and the quality of their wares is surprisingly high – although so are the prices, as this is where most tourists descend. Expect to see plenty of arts and antiques. Atelier Contre-Jour on Rue du Pont Vieux sells silk lampshades, furniture, and hand-painted posters. L’Atelier des Cigales on Rue du Collet offers modern versions of traditional Provencal terra cotta cups and plates. Alternatively, the gift shops in some of the city’s museums are great for arty souvenirs. So, if you can’t afford a genuine Matisse, then comfort yourself with a fridge magnet depicting his most famous work.

• Tax information

Shopping centres like the Galeries Lafayette have their own tax refund services, as do some of the boutiques

Restaurants in Nice

Nice is certainly not short of restaurants, but if you’re looking for rewarding cuisine at reasonable prices, steer clear of the tourist hotspots. Gastronomes will unearth some gems in the alleyways of the Old Town and soon realise that Nice’s port harbours not only expensive yachts but also some truly great restaurants. The Nice restaurants below have been grouped into three pricing categories: Expensive:  (over €100) Moderate:  (€40 to €100) Cheap:  (up to €40) These Nice restaurant prices are for a three-course meal for one with a bottle of house wine or equivalent.

Expensive

• Le Chantecler

Cuisine: French This Michelin-starred restaurant is arguably the city’s finest dining experience in one of its finest hotels. The Regency-style space is as spectacular as the food, which is plated up like artwork. Try one of chef Jean-Denis Rieubland’s signature dishes such as langoustine roasted with sweet Espelette chillies and served with crispy calf’s head. Address: Hotel Negresco, 37 Promenade des Anglais, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9316 6400 Website: www.hotel-negresco-nice.com

• L’Aromate

Cuisine: French A lot of fuss was made when this restaurant opened in 2009. That’s because its chef is Mickaël Gracieux, who has cooked for French royalty and a host of A-list stars. He continues to wow diners with his modern take on traditional French fare, which has won him a Michelin star. Address: 2 Rue Gustave Deloye, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9362 9824 Website: www.laromate.fr

• Maido

Cuisine: Japanese Found in the centre of Nice, Maïdo is an izakaya – the Japanese equivalent of a wine bar authentic Japanese dishes from Kanoko, the expatriate cook. Okonomiyaki, silky tofu salad, duck breast tataki with yuzu-saké sauce, Japanese fried chicken and other wonders are served with traditional sake and with natural wines carefully selected. Address: 31 Rue Gioffredo, Nice. Telephone: +33 9 8304 7000 Website: www.restaurant-maido.fr

Moderate

• Bistrot d’Antoine

Cuisine: French This excellent Old Town bistro serves inventive French cooking that the locals would actually be seen eating. With paintings of past French presidents hanging from the walls, it offers daily specials, friendly service and a great terrace for watching the world go by. Reservations are recommended as it fills up quickly. Address: 27 Rue de la Préfecture, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9385 2957

• La Cave du Fromager

Cuisine: French Though the name may be misleading, this bistro is not in fact a cheese shop -rather, every dish it serves is simply inspired by cheese. The setting is a stone-lined cellar and the permeating aroma is one of bread and cheese. The fondue, fish, charcuterie, and wine all come highly recommended. Book in advance to ensure seating. Address: 29 rue Benoît Bunico, Nice. Telephone: +33 6 9959 7594 Website: www.lacavedufromager.fr

• La Petite Maison

Cuisine: French and Italian This upmarket restaurant is a favourite with the local business community, which comes to enjoy Provençale and Italian classics. The food is fresh and light, and the restaurant has an impressive array of wine and champagne. Elton John is rumoured to have dined here on more than one occasion as well. Address: 11 Rue Saint-François de Paule, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9392 5959 Website: www.lapetitemaison-nice.com

Cheap

• Chez Palmyre

Cuisine: French A restaurant with history, this little shop has been open since 1926, offering simple and delicious three course meals from a prix fixe menu for 18 euros. The communal seating and warm atmosphere means it’s easy to befriend those seated nearby. The restaurant is frequented by locals and tourists alike—book well in advance if you’re hoping to get seats. Address: 5 rue Droite, Nice, 06300 Telephone: +33 4 9385 7232

• La Petite Loge

Cuisine: French It’s hard to find a more atmospheric wine bar in the Old Town – and the delicious plates of charcuterie and cheeses match the carefully chosen bottles beautifully. Under the stone vaulted ceiling of this cosy caviste (wineshop), be sure to try the truffled sausage and ask the sommelier what to drink. Address: 10 Rue de la Loge, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9301 6328 Website: www.lapetiteloge.com

• Le Café de Turin

Cuisine: Seafood This seafood institution on the edge of the Old Town serves some of the best and the freshest shellfish in Nice. Grab a seat by the busy street and take the pulse of the city while battling through giant platters of mussels, oysters, clams and large glasses of flavourful wine. Address: 5 Place Garibaldi, Nicee. Telephone: +33 4 9362 2952 Website: www.cafedeturin.fr

Nice Nightlife

Nice’s nightlife runs the gamut from grungy backpacker pubs in the Old Town to pumping nightclubs on the seafront. You’ll also find numerous beach clubs just below the Promenade des Anglais and buzzing cafés in Place Garibaldi. Nice has long been associated with the arts, which lives on today through the city’s theatres and opera house. There are also frequent cultural events throughout the year.

Bars in Nice

• El Merkado

Known for its warm ambience and delicious Sangria, this little tapas bar is favoured by travelers and locals alike. Although the tapas are sometimes hit or miss, the burgers come well recommended, and the drinks are out of this world. Sit on the outdoor balcony for a truly French communal experience. Address: 12 Rue Saint-François de Paule, Nice. Telephone: +33 6 6097 7094 Website: www.el-merkado.com

• La Havane 

Cheap cocktails and Latino beats flow into the early hours at this lively Cuban bar. There are also salsa classes for those that fancy dancing along but don’t know how. The atmosphere is welcoming and the food is pretty good too. The lounge bars nearby are pretty pedestrian by comparison. Address: 32 Rue de France, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9316 3616 Website: www.lahavanenice.com 

• Les Distilleries Idéales 

With its belt-operated ceiling fans, vintage bar, and wooden panelling, this distillery-themed boozer is full of charm. The bland selection of draft beers may be disappointing, but it has a great selection of whisky and outdoor seating, and making it the place to kick off a good night out. Address: 23 Rue de la Préfecture, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9362 1066 Website: www.Idéales.fr

Clubs in Nice

• High Club

Brunch at 3am anyone? Well, that’s the norm at this hedonist’s hangout, which offers round-the-clock dining as well as beachfront clubbing. Four venues in one, Studio 47 offers 80s and disco; Sk’ High is gay friendly; and High showcases France’s top DJs. The fourth, Fooding, keeps your strength up with late-night nosh. Address: 45-47 Promenade des Anglais, Nice. Telephone: +33 7 8188 4204 Website: www.highclub.fr

• KOSMA 

Piano bar on weekdays, then lively weekends with cabarets, disco music, karaoke & comedians. There’s an intimate vibe in this club found in the depths of the Old Town. The dancefloor can be a bit of a squeeze, to say the least, but good cocktails and a varied playlist mixing house, trip hop, and drum and bass easily make up for the crowded space. Address: 8 Rue Sacha Guitry, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 8903 4746 Website: www.kosmaclub.com

• Le Six

This gay-friendly club opens until the early hours and can get fairly wild at weekends and during the February carnival. The music comes courtesy of Le Six’s resident DJs and guest divas, while regular cabaret shows and themed nights add to a lively, late night party schedule. Address: 6 Rue Raoul Bosio, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9362 6664 Website: www.le-six.fr

Live music in Nice

• Opéra de Nice

Resoundingly ornate, this 19th-century landmark is Nice’s premier classical venue. With a stunning location along the shore, the house is home to both the renowned Nice Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ballet Nice Méditerrannée; book your tickets online to enjoy a baroque evening in gilded surroundings. Address: 4-6 Rue Saint-François de Paule, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9217 4000 Website: www.opera-nice.org

• Shapko Bar

By day Shapko is great place to grab a cold beer, sit outside, and watch the world go slowly by. By night, this chilled out bar bursts to life with lively jazz performances. Come on the weekend if you love the crowds. The tiny dancefloor gets hot and sweaty, which can add to the fun. Address: 5 Rue Rossetti, Nice. Telephone: +33 7 5567 8989 Website: www.shapkobar.com

• Wayne’s Bar

The antithesis to Nice’s swanky lounge bars, Wayne’s is a down-to-earth drinking den that more than resembles a British pub. Inside there’s a friendly atmosphere and live bands every night. The venue also serves reasonably priced food – another reason why it’s so popular with travellers. Address: 15 Rue de la Préfecture, Nice. Telephone: +33 4 9313 4699 Website: www.waynesbar-restaurant.com

Nice Food And Drink

In a country known for its refined cuisine, Nice stands out with its fresh seafood and tasty regional specialities. so get ready for the flavours of Nice. Niçoise cuisine combines the tasteful elegance of France and the Provençal region with a hearty Italian influence and the fresh flavours of the Mediterranean. It’s no surprise that a number of France’s best-known dishes originated in Nice, and the city’s chefs are not about to let you forget it. Read on to discover the top 10 must-try dishes and drinks of Nice.

• Socca

Socca, also known as farinata, is a classic Niçoise street food. Loved by hungry children and adults alike, this oven-baked snack is made of chickpea flour and shaped like a crepe. It’s gluten-free and packed with protein – makes it a healthy snack or light meal on the go. Try: Lou Pilha Leva (10 Rue du Collet) is a beloved local establishment, but if you’re itching to explore a marketplace, stop by the Chez Theresa Stall in Cours Saleya.

• Salade Niçoise

Although famous across the continent, you haven’t really enjoyed Salade Niçoise until you’ve tasted it in the city where it originated. Fresh and locally sourced ingredients, including tomatoes, radish, onion, olives, eggs and anchovies are what gives this salad its tasty and surprisingly filling kick. Try: NOMAD Bar (3 Place Saint Francois)

• Ratatouille

Another famous Niçoise recipe, ratatouille is a hearty stew made of sliced vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and tomato, and flavoured with fresh garlic and fragrant olive oil. Although outside of France ratatouille is often elevated to the ranks of elegant appetizers, in Nice it is a humble and nourishing meal made for the whole family to share. Try: For a small and cosy restaurant where the servers make you feel at home, head to La Rossettisserie (8 Rue Mascoinat).

• La Daube Niçoise

This dish takes the standard French daube, or meat stew, and adds a delicious twist: the addition of cremini mushrooms, brandy, and cayenne pepper. These ingredients, added to a slow-simmering pot of onion, carrots, herbs and beef, create a rich stew and tender meat. This is the perfect meal for a winter night. Try Casa Nissa (55 rue Gioffredo) for a reasonably priced, well-prepared meal.

• Pan Bagnat

A favourite preparation of classy bakeries and simple street stalls alike, pan bagnat is a delicious lunch sandwich made of whole wheat country bread stuffed with the ingredients you might find in a Salade Niçoise: hard boiled eggs, anchovies, tuna and fresh vegetables. It’s finished off with an artful drizzle of olive oil. Try: Though you can find pan bagnat nearly everywhere, for the best preparation stop by Kiosque Tintin (Place du General de Gaulle) or La Gratta (56 Boulevard Stalingrad).

• Les Petits Farcis

A classic spring and summertime dish in Nice, les petits farcis is made of vegetables like eggplant, tomato, and zucchini stuffed with garlicky ground beef, rice, couscous or breadcrumbs. It can be served cold or hot, as a light lunch or an appetizer to a larger meal. Try: The family-run Le Acchiardo (38 Rue Droite), which has been serving up local Niçoise staples since 1927.

• Tourte aux blettes

For those with a sweet tooth and an eye for adventure, tourte aux blettes is the perfect Provencal French dessert. “Blette” means Swiss chard, and that is exactly what this tasty pastry is stuffed with: the sugared leaves of Swiss chard. This is one dish that must be sampled to be understood. Try: Boulangerie du palais (21 rue du Marché) has arguably the best “Swiss chard pie”.

• Provence Rosé wine

With Provence being the prime region for fantastic rosé wine, it would practically be a crime to visit Nice without savouring a few of its famous local wines. While rosé is the classic complement to summer meals, don’t feel the need to limit yourself. Countless restaurants throughout the city offer long lists of reds, whites, and pinks. Try: Stop by La Petite Loge (10 Rue de la Loge), an atmospheric wine bar in the Old Town.

• Café au Lait

When you get tired of sightseeing, there’s no better way to take in Nice’s everyday liveliness than settling down in a local café with a cup of café au lait in your hand. Often served with a buttery croissant, this charming mixture of frothy milk and hot coffee is guaranteed to revive your tired senses. Try: For a quintessential French café experience, stop in the Brulerie des Cafes Indien (35 Rue Pairoliere).

• Champagne

Being in the glamorous Nice and enjoying its brilliant sunshine are good reasons to celebrate with a bottle of champagne. The city has several champagne/ wine bars perfect for a little celebration. Cheers!

Nice Hotels

Nice is the Côte d’Azur’s vibrant capital, a buzzing year-round city on a striking stretch of coastline. Glitzy Cannes and St-Tropez may vie for the attentions of visitors with their glamorous summer calendars, but Nice is a thriving melting pot with stacks to see and do as a couple, or with friends and family in the spring and autumn, too. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, reflecting the vast array of tastes and budgets of those who choose to holiday in the city. A popular seaside resort since the 18th Century, Nice was once a hotspot for consumptive Brits seeking to soak up the restorative sea air. The impressive Promenade des Anglais — named for these historic holidaymakers — is now a lovely place for a stroll, some shopping and a superb seafood lunch. Hit the beach for sunbathing, swimming and sailing, or venture inland to explore Vieux Nice. The opulent townhouses and enormous squares of the old town feel timeless. Pick a perch in Place Garibaldi for some people-watching with your coffee, choose flowers or cheese at the Cours Saleya Market, or head up to the ruins of Castle Hill for panoramic views. Cultural highlights include the Musée Massena, Saint-Nicolas Cathedral, Sainte-Reparate Cathedral, the Matisse & Picasso Museum and the Marc Chagall National Museum. Don’t miss discovering the gardens of the Phoenix Parc Floral, either. The best places to stay in Nice offer a remarkable opportunity to discover the capital of the Côte d’Azur, teeming with life throughout the year.