Nice
Nice anchors the French Riviera with sun-drenched promenades, world-class museums, and a vibrant old town, yet it remains surprisingly affordable compared to its glamorous neighbors Cannes and Monaco. Budget travelers can feast on socca, sleep steps from the sea, and soak up Mediterranean culture without the eye-watering price tags.
Why go to Nice
Promenade des Anglais
The iconic 7-km seafront boulevard where the whole city comes alive, stroll, cycle, or just watch the azure Mediterranean shimmer.
Vieux-Nice (Old Town)
A labyrinth of Baroque churches, ochre-painted buildings, and buzzing market squares that feel straight out of a Fellini film.
Musée Matisse
An exceptional collection of Henri Matisse's work housed in a gorgeous 17th-century Genoese villa overlooking olive groves.
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
A free hilltop park with sweeping panoramic views over the Baie des Anges and the terracotta rooftops of Old Nice.
Cours Saleya Market
One of France's most vibrant daily markets, flowers, fresh produce, olives, and Niçoise specialties in a glorious outdoor setting.
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Good to know in Nice
- Transit: A single tram/bus ticket is about $1.80 and a 24-hour pass is around $6, the Ligne d'Azur network covers the whole city including a direct bus (#98) from the airport to the city center for just $8.
- Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in France; service is included by law. Rounding up or leaving $1-2 on the table for good service is appreciated but never expected.
- Tap water: Nice's tap water is perfectly safe to drink, ask for 'une carafe d'eau' at restaurants for free filtered tap water instead of paying for bottled.
- Free-entry days: The Musée Matisse, MAMAC, and several other city-run museums offer free permanent-collection entry every day (not just Sundays), always check for temporary exhibit surcharges.