Nice

Oozing glamour and classic French Riviera style, Nice pulls in the visitors year after year thanks to its great weather, fantastic beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

Home to two million people, most of Nice’s top sights and attractions can be found on or near the five kilometre stretch of walkways and beaches called the Promenade des Anglais. Buzzing with energy at all times of the day, the waterfront strip is filled with cute cafés, swanky restaurants and stylish bars. A playground for the rich and famous for decades and popular with everyone from royalty to top Hollywood stars, you can spend hours just people-watching, weaving between the vintage cars and watching yachts sail across the Baie de Anges.

Set just a couple of minutes back from the waterfront is the charming Old Town, where the Art Deco and baroque architecture and abundance of historic churches can’t fail to impress. The narrow streets are spilling over with old-fashioned French eateries, packed with diners from morning until evening. Join the crowds and order a drink and a classic dish such as a refreshing Salade Niçoise. The Old Town is also home to the busy Cours Saleya open-air market, where you can pick up some delicious fresh local produce.

Just beyond the Old Town is the Place Massena, the city’s main square. At night, the square lights up as a modern art installation and brightly-lit historic fountain take centre stage.

Castle Hill is situated just south of the Old Town and has been converted into an interesting park area complete with ruins, lookouts and a waterfall. You can choose to climb to the top of the hill, or alternatively pay a small fee and take the lift, which is open from March until the end of October.

One of the best things about Nice is how easy it is to get around. You can walk, take a bike or even roller skate around the centre of the city. The local transport system is fast and efficient and includes trams and buses.