Nice… the diamond in the crown of the Mediterranean,
the pearl of southern France. A day spent here is an absolute must when
visiting the Côte
d’Azur. From delicious cuisine to architectural delights, beaches to museums,
your time in here will be one to remember. Here is our brief guide of the best
things to do with 24 hours in Nice:
MORNING
Breakfast – What better way to start your day of
adventure than with a delicious pastry and fresh coffee? Patisseries are
aplenty here in Nice, with Patisserie Lac a particularly popular choice for
locals and tourists alike.
Nice Cathedral – A great place to visit to burn off
your morning energy! Outside, the structure is somewhat unassuming – some
people don’t even realise this is the city’s cathedral! Inside, though, it’s a
different story. This 17th century structure with a lavish baroque
design is composed of 10 ornate chapels with sculptures, paintings and gilding.
Definitely one for art and history enthusiasts.
Afterwards, a walk up the nearby Castle Hill (which
can also be reached via a lift) is a great idea. Once at the top, there are tranquil
parks and gardens from which you can absorb the idyllic panoramic views of the
city and crystal blue sea.
AFTERNOON
After all that you’ll surely want something to eat.
Some great choices for a leisurely lunch include Polly and Cie, Le Fonetic and Chez Papa – all offering fresh,
local cuisine. The truffle pasta at the latter of these three is to die for!
And of course you must try the local speciality, the Salade Niçoise.
After satisfying your
appetite, a stroll around the old town is a great way to spend your afternoon
in the heat of the day. There is an enormous choice of museums to visit,
catering for all interests. The Galerie Lympia showcases exciting and varied art,
with recent exhibitions including the sculptures of Giacometti and photography
of Depardon. Lovers of modern art will enjoy the Sheun Gallery. Slightly beyond
the old town, the archaeological museum is a highly popular choice for those with
an interest in ancient Roman history, and the Franciscan museum for enthusiasts
of the medieval and Renaissance eras.
Whilst in the old town, do pop by the daily market
which has local fresh produce and regional delicacies to take back to your
villa.
EVENING
A special evening of fine dining is guaranteed in this
world-renowned hub of gastronomic excellence. The Michelin-starred Jan restaurant
is particularly well-regarded for its exciting combination of contemporary
European and South African flavours, with a tasting menu that will impress the
most discerning of clients.
Afterwards, a stroll along the famous beachfront Promenade
des Anglais (the name being a nod to Nice’s history as a magnet for aristocratic
English tourists) is the perfect way to end a memorable day in Nice.
NIGHT
Perhaps time to head back to one of our lovely villas
on the Côte
d’Azur - all of course within a short drive from Nice (see right!)
Welcome back! Want to pick up where you left off?