The French Riviera is a beautiful part of the world, and with Nice being France’s second-largest city on the Mediterranean coast, it’s the main destination for anyone visiting the area. Only a short flight from the UK (just over 2 hours from London), it is a city that captivates with its blend of stunning seaside scenery, vibrant heritage, and wealth of food and drink highlights.
While the famous Promenade des Anglais and the charming Old Town draw countless visitors each year, Nice also has many less obvious attractions awaiting those willing to explore beyond the tourist hotspots. As you’ll want to know exactly where to go, below is a selection of the best spots in the city that are lesser known, helping you find a more authentic holiday experience.
Before You Book Your Trip To Nice
As you’ll want to ensure a hassle-free experience when you arrive in Nice, the best way to do so is by researching and planning a few essential things first when putting together your itinerary.
Top of this list is ensuring your passport is valid for travel. Coming from the UK, your passport should be less than 10 years old and have an expiry date at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave. To avoid any last-minute surprises, check this well in advance of travel so that you have time to renew your passport if need be. Also, get yourself a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) if you haven’t already – you can find out more and apply for one on the NHS website.
As you won’t want to leave anything to chance, be sure to research and arrange comprehensive travel insurance for your whole trip, even if it is just for a weekend. This will protect you against unforeseen circumstances, including medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Make sure your travel insurance policy covers any potential disruptions and all your planned activities, and if you’re taking plenty of expensive gadgets with you, look for additional cover just in case of damage or accidentally misplacing them.
Lastly, consider your accommodation options carefully. Nice offers a variety of great places to stay, from luxury hotels to charming B&Bs. Booking those close to less-explored districts can provide more authentic local experiences and easier access to things you want to see. It’s always best to plan to make the most of your visit to this mesmerising city whilst also leaving a bit of room for spontaneous choices.
Historic Treasures Off the Beaten Path
Nice is not all just about its glamorous waterfront setting, as it also boasts plenty of history that can often go unnoticed by the casual tourist. A visit to the Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez and its gardens, sat atop the hill of Cimiez, provide panoramic views of the city and the sea, making it a perfect spot for quiet time away from the city. It’s also where both painters Henri Matisse and Raul Dufy are buried in the cemetery.
For more on local history, the Musée Archeologique de Nice-Cimiez, located right next to the monastery, displays pieces from the ancient Greeks and Romans. The surrounding area, once the Roman city of Cemenelum, includes well-preserved ruins and baths to explore.
Another gem is the Palais Lascaris in the heart of the old town. This 17th-century baroque palace turned museum houses a collection of antique musical instruments and ornate furnishings, offering a glimpse into higher society, once owned by one of the most important aristocratic families in Nice, the Lascaris-Vintimille.
If you go slightly outside the city centre, Le Fort du Mont Alban offers a historical and visual treat. Built in the mid-16th century, it provides a stunning vantage point for views over Nice and the surrounding areas of the Mediterranean coastline. These historic sites will enrich your understanding of Nice’s past and help you enjoy the city’s beauty away from the main tourist areas.
Culinary Secrets of Nice
Far beyond the famous salade niçoise and ratatouille, Nice has many hidden delights known mostly to locals. Tucked away in the narrow, winding streets of Vieux Nice (Old Nice), you can discover La Merenda, a tiny bistro where chef Dominique Le Stanc, a former Michelin-starred chef, serves up traditional Niçoise cuisine such as farces niçois, vegetables stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs and herbs, and pissaladière, a pizza-style tart, are a local tradition.
Le Bistrot d’Antoine is another favourite among those in the know. It has a charming atmosphere, and the menu offers a sophisticated twist on regional dishes, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking more authentic Niçoise meals such as pork casserole or beef tartare.
For a truly local experience, head to the morning market at Cours Saleya, where the locals shop for the freshest ingredients. Whilst in the Old Town, get yourself a Socca, a savoury pancake made of chickpea flour that travel insurer Staysure says is a must-try, with a crispy exterior and soft savoury inside that you’ll find from one of the market stalls.
Exploring Nice’s culinary delights will not only satisfy your taste buds but also offer a deeper connection to the culture and lifestyle of the city.
Hidden Nature Spots
Not only is Nice a city of art and history but also one full of hidden natural beauty. Whilst its famous beaches are always a draw for tourists, the Parc du Mont Boron offers quiet paths and stunning views over Nice and the Mediterranean. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful hike or a picnic and is just a short trip from the city centre. The park is a favourite among locals for its peaceful setting and is home to a forest that covers 57 hectares, from olive trees to pines.
Another spot to visit is the Jardin Botanique de Nice, located in the Corniche Fleurie district. This botanical garden is home to over 3,000 plant species from Mediterranean climates worldwide, including Australia, Africa and Asia. The garden’s quiet corners provide a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the busy markets.
Explore Nice More Than The Average Tourist
To get the most out of any holiday and get a feeling for living like a local, immersing yourself in more than just the standard tourist spots will go a long way. You’ll find a rich hidden history and see parts of Nice that you otherwise wouldn’t, giving you a unique glimpse into the authentic spirit of the city.
So, pack your sense of adventure and discover the hidden charms of Nice, giving you a getaway that is beyond the ordinary tourist experience.
