There’s no castle at the top, but the hill overlooking Nice offers panoramic views across the city and sea, historic ruins, and an escape from the heat of summer.
Separating the Old Town from the Port of Nice, Castle Hill may not actually have a castle, but what is does have is unbeatable views across the city and the Bay of Angels. The hilltop has been converted into a recreational park suitable for people of all ages. Old ruins, look-out points, a playground, a man-made waterfall and a café that opens in high season can all be found at the top.
If you’re feeling fit, you can walk up Castle Hill. Climbing the 213 steps is an effort but it offers great views as you go, and there are a number of places on the way where you can stop if you need to. The set of brick stairs can be reached from the end of the Promenade, and climbs its way up to an observation deck that sits atop the Naval Museum, offering a beautiful view of the city and the azure Mediterranean Sea. Bring comfortable shoes and a bottle of water.
If you don’t fancy the climb, you can take the lift that runs in the high season from March to October. It leaves you at the car park three quarters of the way up, but it’s a gentle ascent to the top from here on. Alternatively you can splash out on the tourist train that takes 45 minutes and leaves from the Promenade des Anglais.
It’s worth getting hold of a map before you go so you can plan your visit to Castle Hill. Top of the list should be the man-made waterfall (turned off after 5 p.m.) and the ruins of the cathedral and medieval fortress that were taken down in 1706. Take a look at the old cemetery – it’s hundreds of years old and home to some impressive gravestones and mausoleums.
Castle Hill is free to get in and is open every day and closes at different times throughout the year, depending on the season. You can check out the opening hours on the gate to the stairs and the lift.
