Nice is one of the major highlights of the French Riviera. It is a stunning city with a beautiful seafront and harbour, and is the second most visited location in France after Paris. The city was founded in Roman times and the remains of its beginnings (called Cimiez) can be found on the hill behind Nice. The area has changed hands several time and has been occupied by Italy, Spain and France. The city has a relaxed atmosphere and has attracted many artists over the years. During the summer months Nice's apartments and villas can run in short supply, so its always best to get your accommodation booked early.

Fun Facts about Nice

• Nice is often cloudy in the summer, so photos of Nice with its famous blue skies are usually taken in the winter
• The area between Nice and Monaco is the third most expensive place in the world for real estate
• Pop star Prince filmed and starred in his movie 'Under the Cherry Moon' in Nice
• Henri Matisse did most of his painting in Nice
• The French produce over 60 million hectoliters of wine a year but 72% of the adult French population finds it hard to read the labels on French wine

Where to Stay in Nice

For a real taste of what it is like to live in Nice, look into apartments for rent in the Old Town part of the city, and enjoy wandering home through the winding streets. If you want more space, you might prefer villa accommodation (many of which come with swimming pools, so are great for a family holiday). However in this case you may need to consider car rental, as the best villas are usually located further outside the city itself.

Exploring Nice

Nice city centre is a stunning mix of old and new and also enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year - it’s the perfect city for a visit! The Old Town is very quaint with plenty of winding alleyways to lose yourself down while the New Town area, along the beachfront, is lined with trees and offers an airy view of the Mediterranean. We suggest you take a walk down the beachfront Promenade des Anglais as soon as you arrive. You will be carrying on a tradition that dates back to when the English aristocracy used to come to Nice. The promenade reflects the important influence of these people in shaping modern day Nice. There is some impressive architecture along the seafront – check out the stunning Belle Epoque mansions. Next you should investigate Old Nice – the oldest part of the city. There are market stall, pavement cafes and plenty of churches and cathedrals to explore. We suggest you explore the baroque masterpiece that is the Chapelle de la Misericorde – it’s only open on Tuesdays though so time your visit well if you wish to see it! The Eglise Saint-Jacques is famous for its wooden interior and frescos and is also worth a visit.

Art, History and Culture in Nice

Nice has an excellent range of art galleries and museums, perfect for when you have soaked up enough sun on the beach! Stop off at the Palais Massena which is situated on the Promenade des Anglais. More of a stately home than a palace, today it houses the Museum of Art and History. Many artists were attracted by the quality of light in the Provence region and several museums display their works. Without a doubt Nice’s most famous artist in residence was Henri Matisse. He lived in the Cimiez neighbourhood and this is the location of the Matisse Museum. which celebrates the artists life and output. It contains a lot of his artwork, which he donated to the city.

Walk up Colline Du Chateau. or Castle Hill, for beautiful panoramic views over the city and the Mediterranean. There used to be a castle here and a few parts still remain. Here you can find panoramic views over the city and Mediterranean. Also check out the Russian Orthodox Cathedral which is an architectural gem of early 20th century design and is a reminder of the large amount of Russian aristocracy who came to Nice in the mid-19th century.

Getting around

Nice Airport is one of France’s busiest airports. If you are flying to Nice, make sure you admire the spectacular view over the French Riviera as you descend towards the airport. The airport is approximately 30 minutes from Nice city centre and the most reliable way to travel from the airport into Nice is by airport express bus. The bus company operating in Nice is called Lignes D’Azur and it is the main form of public transportation in the city. Everything you’re likely to want to see is concentrated in the centre so if your accommodation is in the city, you will be fine with public transport, and it is possible to walk between all the major attraction. Nice’s long and stunning beach front is stunning for a cycle ride, so look into bike hire if you fancy that. Cimiez Hill can be reached by bus. The transport system is reliable and cheap and it is integrated meaning your ticket will cover you on both the bus and new tram system.

Other types of accommodation in Nice