Nice is the kind of place that makes you want to pinch yourself. The Mediterranean sparkles like it’s showing off, pastel buildings glow under the sun, and the air smells like fresh flowers and sea salt. I wandered through this French Riviera gem last summer, and I’m still daydreaming about it. For Europeans looking for a quick escape that feels like a full-on holiday, Nice is your answer. It’s got charm, sunshine, and a vibe that’s effortlessly cool yet totally welcoming. Here’s my take on why Nice is a must-visit.
What Makes Nice So Irresistible?
Nice is like a love letter to the good life. It’s got the glamour of the Côte d’Azur—think yacht-dotted waters and chic cafés—but it’s also got this warm, lived-in feel that makes you want to stay forever. The weather’s a dream, with sunny days and mild evenings almost year-round, perfect for a weekend trip from Berlin, Barcelona, or London. Whether you’re here for art, food, or just to soak up the Mediterranean magic, Nice has a way of making every moment feel special.
Can’t-Miss Spots in Nice
Promenade des Anglais: Where Dreams Meet the Sea
The Promenade des Anglais is Nice’s heart and soul. This long, palm-fringed walkway hugs the coastline, with the turquoise Baie des Anges on one side and buzzing cafés on the other. I spent a morning strolling here, coffee in hand, watching joggers, rollerbladers, and locals out for their daily dose of sea air. It’s the kind of place where you can just walk and feel like you’re part of something beautiful. Rent a bike if you want to cover more ground—it’s pure joy.
Vieux Nice: A Slice of Old-World Charm
The Old Town, Vieux Nice, is where I lost myself in the best way. Narrow streets wind past peach- and ochre-coloured buildings, with laundry hanging from balconies and the hum of conversation spilling out of tiny bistros. I grabbed a socca—this crispy chickpea pancake that’s a Nice specialty—and wandered to Place Rossetti, where the vibe is lively but never rushed. The Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate is a stunner, with its baroque façade and quiet, sacred interior. You’ll want to linger here for hours.
Castle Hill: Views That Take Your Breath Away
Colline du Château, or Castle Hill, is where you go for the money shot. No castle remains, but the views over Nice’s red-tiled roofs and the glittering sea are worth the climb. I huffed my way up the steps (there’s a free lift if you’re not feeling sporty) and was rewarded with a panorama that made me forget everything else. The park’s shady paths and hidden waterfall make it a great spot for a picnic or a quiet moment to take it all in.
Food That’ll Make You Swoon
Nice’s food is like a hug from the Mediterranean. The Cours Saleya market is a riot of colours and smells—think ripe tomatoes, glistening olives, and bunches of lavender. I tried a salade niçoise at a little spot in the Old Town
