Nice France 2 Day Itinerary

Nice in 48 Hours: A whirlwind French Riviera Experience

This itinerary packs the best of Nice into two days, perfect for a short but sweet getaway.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hôtel de France (central location, basic amenities)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Florence Nice (stylish, close to Promenade des Anglais)
  • Luxury: Negresco (iconic palace hotel with stunning sea views)

Transportation:

  • Within Nice: Walkable city center, efficient bus system. Consider a “Carte Pass” for unlimited travel.
  • From Airport: Tram Line 2 connects the airport to downtown Nice.

Things to Know:

  • Language: French (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is appreciated.
  • Weather: Sunny and warm most of the year, pack light clothing and sunscreen.

Day 1: Exploring Old Town & Beachfront Glamour

  • Morning:

    • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Cours Saleya, Nice’s vibrant flower market (open Tuesday to Sunday).
    • 10:00 AM: Wander through the charming narrow streets of Vieux Nice (Old Town), admiring colourful buildings and hidden squares.
    • 11:30 AM: Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, a stunning Baroque cathedral with an ornate interior.

  • Lunch:

    • 1:00 PM: Enjoy traditional Niçoise cuisine at Chez Pipo (try the salade niçoise or pissaladière) in Vieux Nice.

  • Afternoon:

    • 2:30 PM: Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, the iconic palm-lined promenade with breathtaking Mediterranean views.
    • 4:00 PM: Relax on the beach, take a dip in the sea, or rent a sunbed for some serious sunbathing.

  • Evening:

    • 7:30 PM: Dine at La Mère Germaine (reservations recommended) for classic French dishes with a modern twist.
    • 9:00 PM: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the illuminated Promenade des Anglais, savoring gelato from Fenocchio (renowned for its unique flavors).

Day 2: Art & Culture Immersion

  • Morning:

    • 9:00 AM: Explore the Musée Matisse, showcasing the works of Henri Matisse who spent much of his life in Nice.
    • 11:00 AM: Visit Chagall National Museum dedicated to Marc Chagall’s vibrant paintings and stained glass windows.

  • Lunch:

    • 1:00 PM: Grab a quick lunch at a café or boulangerie near the museums.

  • Afternoon:

    • 2:00 PM: Take a scenic hike up Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views of Nice and the coastline.
    • 4:00 PM: Explore the trendy shops and boutiques along Rue Masséna, Nice’s main shopping street.

  • Evening:

    • 7:30 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Petite Maison (reservations essential), known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and elegant atmosphere.
    • 9:00 PM: Catch a performance at the Opéra de Nice for a cultural evening.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Day Trip to Eze & Monaco: Take a bus or train to explore the medieval village of Eze and the glamorous principality of Monaco.
  • Boat Tour: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the French Riviera coastline.
  • Local Markets: Visit the Cours Saleya market (Tues-Sun), the Libération Market (Mon-Sat) for fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic French phrases for a more authentic experience.
  • Book accommodation and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Take advantage of free activities like exploring the beaches, parks, and Old Town.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Enjoy your unforgettable 48 hours in Nice!