Nice

Nice is a stunning blend of Italian charm and French sophistication, set against the turquoise waters of the Baie des Anges. Start with a walk along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, where blue chairs invite you to sit and watch the waves. For the best view, climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château); while the castle is long gone, the park offers panoramic vistas of the Old Town (Vieux Nice) to the west and the bustling port to the east. Vieux Nice is a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful facades, baroque churches, and the fragrant Cours Saleya market. This market is famous for its morning flower stalls and local produce. Art enthusiasts should head to the Cimiez neighborhood to visit the Musée Matisse and the Musée Marc Chagall, both celebrating artists who were inspired by the radiant light of the Riviera. With its pebble beaches and sunny climate, Nice is the perfect gateway to the glamour of the South of France.

Niçoise cuisine is distinct from traditional French fare, characterized by Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, tomatoes, and chickpeas. The most famous local snack is Socca—a large, thin chickpea pancake seasoned with black pepper, best eaten hot from the oven at a market stall. In Vieux Nice, look for 'Chez Pipo' or the stalls in Cours Saleya to try this savory treat. Another staple is the Pan Bagnat, essentially a Salade Niçoise in a sandwich, drenched in olive oil. For a more substantial meal, try Daube Niçoise (a slow-cooked beef stew) or Pissaladière (a thick onion tart with anchovies and olives). Seafood is, of course, a highlight; enjoy fresh sea bass or sardines at one of the العديد restaurants lining the port. End your meal with a scoop of lavender or rosemary-flavored gelato from Fenocchio in Place Rossetti. Dining in Nice is best enjoyed al fresco, accompanied by a chilled glass of Provence Rosé as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.

While the beaches are the main draw, the Russian Orthodox Cathedral (Saint-Nicolas) is a stunning architectural surprise located just a short walk from the main train station. It is the largest of its kind in Western Europe and features beautiful colorful domes. For a more tranquil coastal experience, take the 'Sentier du Littoral' (Coastal Path) that starts near the port. This path winds around the rocky coast, offering secluded swimming spots and incredible views of the villas perched on the cliffs. A 15-minute train ride east takes you to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a picturesque fishing village with a beautiful sandy beach and a colorful harbor. Alternatively, head west to Antibes or up into the hills to the medieval village of Eze, which sits like an eagle's nest overlooking the coast. For a local evening, visit the Libération neighborhood, north of the main center. It has a fantastic daily market and a more authentic, less touristy atmosphere with great wine bars and small bistros frequented by locals.

Nice is incredibly well-connected. The Lignes d'Azur tram system is modern, clean, and the easiest way to traverse the city, linking the airport directly to the port and the city center. For exploring the wider Riviera, the TER regional trains are efficient and offer spectacular views as they hug the coastline. Avoid driving in the city; parking is difficult and the one-way streets can be confusing. Walking is generally very pleasant, though the heat can be intense in the summer. One practical note about the beaches: they are made of large smooth pebbles (galets), not sand. If you plan to spend time lounging, consider bringing a thick mat or renting a sunbed at one of the private beach clubs, and definitely wear water shoes. Most shops are open late in the summer, but many smaller boutiques and pharmacie close for a couple of hours in the afternoon for 'la sieste.' Finally, remember that a polite 'Bonjour' when entering a shop and 'Merci, au revoir' when leaving is essential French etiquette that will go a long way in ensuring great service.