Travel around Nice with Bobby
Day 1The Azure Welcome
Stepping off the train at Nice-Ville station, the warm Mediterranean breeze immediately hit me. I’d heard about the allure of the French Riviera, but nothing quite prepares you for the brilliance of the azure waters that greet you along the Promenade des Anglais. After checking into my boutique hotel, which had a lovely view of the coastline, I wasted no time. I headed straight to the Promenade for a long, leisurely walk, soaking in the sea air and watching locals rollerblading and cycling along the stretch. My first stop was Castle Hill (Colline du Château), where the view of Nice’s red rooftops meeting the blue sea is nothing short of breathtaking. After taking far too many photos, I explored the charming Old Town (Vieux Nice), a maze of narrow streets, pastel buildings, and bustling markets. I stumbled upon Cours Saleya, famous for its flower market and street cafes. For lunch, I sat down at a small bistro, savoring a Salade Niçoise, the perfect blend of fresh vegetables, olives, and tuna—this is where the flavors of Nice truly come alive.
In the evening, I strolled to Place Masséna, the beating heart of the city, where the lively atmosphere pulled me in. Street performers, beautiful fountains, and a vibrant energy filled the air. Dinner was at Le Bistrot d’Antoine, a cozy spot where I tried a local favorite, socca, a delicious chickpea pancake. Tired but happy, I headed back to my hotel for the night, excited for the days ahead.
If you're short on time, spend your first day exploring the Promenade and Old Town. The views from Castle Hill are a must-see, so don't skip it!
Day 2Art, Culture, and a Slice of Heaven
I started the day with a quick breakfast at a local café—croissants and coffee, of course—before heading to one of Nice’s most renowned cultural spots: the Musée Matisse. Nestled in the Cimiez neighborhood, this museum celebrates the life and works of Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for much of his life. The vivid colors and forms of his art seemed to echo the vibrancy of the city itself. After getting my art fix, I made my way to the Musée Marc Chagall, where his larger-than-life paintings left me speechless.
Lunch was a simple affair—pan bagnat, a traditional Niçoise sandwich, perfect for grabbing on the go. I took it to Jardin Albert 1er, one of the city’s central parks, for a relaxed picnic. The afternoon was dedicated to the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a striking and unexpected architectural wonder in Nice. Its ornate design felt almost like stepping into another world, far from the Mediterranean.
As the sun set, I decided to try something different for dinner and headed to La Petite Maison, a famous spot among locals and visitors alike. Here, I indulged in ratatouille and a glass of rosé—two staples that encapsulate the essence of Southern French cuisine. Feeling energized, I finished the night by heading to Le Wayne’s Bar for live music and a taste of Nice’s vibrant nightlife.
Breakfast at a local café with fresh croissants and coffee set the day off right. Lunch was a quick yet flavorful pan bagnat, and dinner at La Petite Maison was a culinary highlight, with local ingredients prepared to perfection.
Food
The same boutique hotel continued to offer a restful and comfortable stay. The staff was friendly, and I appreciated the sea view more and more each day, though the compact size of the room remained a slight downside.
Accomodation
Visiting the Matisse Museum and Musée Marc Chagall was a deeply enriching experience. The artwork captured the essence of the Riviera, while the Russian Orthodox Cathedral was an unexpected architectural gem.
Activity
Don't rush through the museums—they're worth every minute. Also, treat yourself to a meal at La Petite Maison; it's a bit pricey, but the food is unforgettable!
Day 3Coastal Dreams and Hilltop Views
On my third day, I ventured a little further, starting with a short bus ride to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming coastal village just outside Nice. The peaceful harbor, colorful houses, and laid-back atmosphere were the perfect contrast to the busier city. After wandering through the quiet streets and enjoying a café by the water, I hopped back on the bus to visit Eze, a medieval hilltop village that felt like stepping into a fairytale. The climb to the Exotic Garden at the top of the village is steep but well worth it for the panoramic views over the Côte d’Azur.
For lunch, I treated myself to a meal at La Chèvre d’Or, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Eze. The food was as stunning as the views—delicate, flavorful dishes that celebrated the best of Mediterranean ingredients. Afterward, I returned to Nice and spent the late afternoon on Plage Beau Rivage, one of the city’s private beaches. There’s something magical about unwinding on a sun lounger while the waves lap gently at the shore.
Dinner that night was a casual affair at Chez Pipo, where I tried more socca and indulged in a few too many local pastries for dessert. For a nightcap, I ended the evening with a cocktail at Les Distilleries Idéales, a bar that exudes old-world charm with its classic décor and cozy atmosphere.
The culinary experience reached new heights with lunch at the Michelin-starred La Chèvre d’Or in Eze. The food was exquisite, with beautifully presented dishes and flavors that perfectly matched the surroundings. Dinner at Chez Pipo was more casual but equally satisfying, with the traditional socca winning me over again.
Food
My hotel continued to be a pleasant base, offering the perfect mix of comfort and style. The proximity to both the beach and key sights made it incredibly convenient for my day trips.
Accomodation
A day trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer and Eze added a new dimension to the trip. Villefranche’s serene harbor and Eze’s hilltop views were breathtaking. The visit to the Exotic Garden in Eze was a beautiful experience, capping off a perfect day.
Activity
If you can, take a day to explore the nearby villages of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Eze. They offer a different pace and breathtaking views. Also, don't miss a beach day—it's the French Riviera, after all!
Day 4The Final Taste of Nice
On my last day, I wanted to slow things down and savor every moment. I spent the morning at Marché aux Fleurs, the famous flower market in Cours Saleya. The vibrant colors and fragrances of the flowers were intoxicating, and I couldn’t resist picking up some local olive oil and lavender products to bring home. After a light breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries from a nearby stall, I took a leisurely walk along the Promenade one last time.
For lunch, I headed to Boccaccio, known for its seafood. I indulged in a plate of fresh oysters and bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew, which was the perfect way to end my culinary journey through Nice. The afternoon was spent wandering the Old Town, taking in the sights and sounds one last time. I visited a few galleries and artisan shops before stopping for a coffee at a café overlooking the sea.
As the sun began to set, I had one final dinner at La Voglia, a popular Italian restaurant. The pasta was incredible, and the atmosphere was lively—a fitting end to my time in Nice. With my bags packed and my heart full, I reflected on how much this city had to offer.
Starting the day at Marché aux Fleurs was a feast for the senses. Fresh fruit, pastries, and local specialties like bouillabaisse at Boccaccio for lunch were memorable. Dinner at La Voglia delivered fantastic pasta, leaving me with a final taste of Nice’s Mediterranean charm.
Food
My last night at the boutique hotel was as comfortable as the previous ones. While it lacked some luxury amenities, the charm and excellent location compensated for it.
Accomodation
Spending my final day exploring markets and soaking up the last moments along the Promenade was the perfect way to say goodbye to Nice. The relaxed pace allowed me to fully absorb the city’s atmosphere.
Activity
Nice is a city to savor. Spend your last day exploring the markets and soaking in the laid-back Riviera lifestyle. You won't want to leave!
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Nice offers a truly captivating experience, blending scenic beauty, rich culture, and a laid-back coastal vibe. From its world-class attractions to the warmth of its people, the city delivers on many fronts. Whether you’re there to explore art, indulge in fine cuisine, or simply relax by the sea, Nice has something for everyone. Here’s how I would rate my overall experience across key categories:
Attractions
Value for Money
Cuisine
People and Culture
Accommodation
Cleanliness and Environment
Transportation
Shopping
Safety
Overall Experience
Travel around Nice with Bobby with More Details
I shared my personal experiences and impressions of Lisbon on my blog page. If you want to explore the city in a more in-depth and comprehensive way, you can check out my other content full of detailed information and special tips.
I kicked off the day with a light breakfast at a local café, but it was the Salade Niçoise for lunch that truly stood out. Fresh, flavorful, and representative of Nice’s culinary heritage, it set the tone for the food to come. Dinner at Le Bistrot d’Antoine was cozy and delicious, with socca being the highlight.
Food
I stayed at a boutique hotel with stunning views of the Promenade des Anglais. The rooms were comfortable and well-maintained, though slightly on the smaller side. The location, however, was unbeatable for easy access to the city’s main attractions.
Accomodation
Walking along the Promenade and exploring Old Town was the perfect way to get a feel for the city. Castle Hill offered breathtaking views and the charm of Vieux Nice was exactly what I hoped for. A great introduction to Nice’s iconic sights.
Activity