City Break Nice – Your Quick Guide to the French Riviera
Planning a short getaway? Nice is the perfect city break. It packs beach, culture and great food into a compact, walkable centre. In just a couple of days you can soak up the Mediterranean vibe without feeling rushed.
Where to Stay and Get Around
Choose a hotel or Airbnb near the Promenade des Anglais. You’ll be steps from the sea, restaurants and the main train station. If you prefer a quieter vibe, the Old Town (Vieux‑Nice) offers boutique rooms with colorful facades and easy access to narrow streets full of market stalls.
Nice’s public transport is simple. Buy a 1‑day tram and bus pass for €4.50; it covers the whole city and you can hop on the tram to hit the airport in 20 minutes. Biking is another cheap option – the city has many bike‑share stations and flat routes along the coast.
Top Things to Do in 48 Hours
Day 1 – Explore the heart of Nice. Start with a croissant and coffee at a café on Place Rossetti, then wander through the narrow alleys of Vieux‑Nice. Stop at the Cours Saleya market for fresh fruit, olives and the famous socca (chickpea pancake). The market’s bright colours and lively chatter are a perfect intro to local life.
Next, head up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château). It’s a short climb or a quick elevator ride. From the top you get panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, the red‑roofed town and the sparkling sea – great for a quick photo break.
In the afternoon, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Grab a gelato, watch cyclists and sailboats, and if the weather’s warm, dip your feet in the water at one of the public beaches. Finish the day with dinner at a bistro on Rue Masséna; try the classic Niçoise salad with tuna, olives and anchovies.
Day 2 – Art, nature and a little luxury. Start at the Musée Matisse or the Musée d’Art Moderne for a dose of culture; both are small enough for a quick visit but house impressive works. Afterward, walk to the Port area and enjoy a leisurely lunch of fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.
Spend the afternoon at the Jardin Albert I, a green oasis with palm trees, a lake and a playground. It’s a great spot to relax before heading back to the city centre for a final stroll.
Before you leave, treat yourself to a glass of rosé at a rooftop bar overlooking the sea. The sunset over Nice’s coastline is the perfect end to a short, packed trip.
Quick tips: book accommodations early in summer, pack comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets, and carry a reusable water bottle – the tap water is safe and free. With these basics covered, your city break in Nice will feel effortless and unforgettable.
