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What to do and see in and around Nice, French Riviera

By: Matthew Jones

Nice is the capital of the French Riviera, and averages 300 days of sunshine per year. Nice was originally a Roman settlement, and became popular with artists, and English upper classes and aristocrats in the 19th century. Wander along palm lined seafront boulevards, or explore the winding streets of the old town. Nice is 5½ hours from Paris by train.
Vieux Nice
Vieux Nice is the area around the Chateau park and the colourful Italian style buildings, which line the tiny streets, date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Climb up to the Château park (or take the lift!) for views over the tiled rooftops of Vieux Nice to the sea. Wander around the streets of Vieux Nice to discover hidden art galleries, churches and boutiques, or just relax in one of the cafés.
Cimiez
Cimiez is north of Nice centre, and was originally the Roman capital of the Alpes-Maritime area. There are a few Roman remains scattered on the hillside between the exclusive villas - including an amphitheatre and Roman baths. The Musée d'Archéologie traces the history of the site, and includes many of the archeological finds.
Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is Nice's most famous street. The palm lined street was built in the 19th century for English residents to stroll along the sea front. Wander along the seafront for views over the Mediterranean, admire the grand hotels, or watch the world go by from one of the cafés or restaurants.
Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain
On the north edge of Vieux Nice is the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain, set in a spacious and light modern building, with rooftop terraces and glass corridors. The museum includes French and American art from the 1960s to the present day. Exhibitions continually rotate, but pop artists displayed include (amongst others) Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.
Musée des Beaux Arts
Just off the Promenade des Anglais is the Musée des Beaux Arts, in the former home of Ukranian Princess Kotchubey. The museum contains a collection paintings and sculptures from the 13th to the 20th century. Highlights of the collection include works by Degas, Rodin, Monet and Sisley.
Musée Matisse
The artist Henri Matisse spent his winters in Nice, and died in Nice in 1954, and a museum containing his new work was established in a 17th century villa in the Cimiez area of Nice. The museum includes many of Matisse's drawings, bronze sculptures, paintings and cut out compositions.
Monaco
20 minutes from Nice by train
Monaco is an independent principality, ruled by the Grimaldi family. At the centre of Monaco is Monte-Carlo where you can visit the famous casino and admire huge yachts in the Port de Monaco. Explore the royal Palace overlooking the port, or walk around the roads and follow the famous race course.
Antibes
30 minutes from Nice by train
Antibes is the home of the seriously rich on the Côte d'Azure. Antibes has an excellent market, Musée Picasso contains a large collection of Picasso's work from the period he lived in Antibes. Visit the 16th century Château Grimaldi for great views over the sea, and a terrace garden including sculptures by famous French artists.
Cannes
25 minutes from Nice by train
Cannes is famous for the annual film festival that takes place in the town every summer. Visit during the festival to catch a glimpse of the stars, or for a more relaxing trip take a boat ride out to Ile de Lérins. Wander along the main street on the seafront - La Croisette - to enjoy the views out to sea, or visit the designer shops.