IO things to do in Nice
Discover dramatic coastline and stunning architecture in the French Riviera
1 Dine on fresh seafood
A South American-influenced eatery might not seem like an obvious choice when visiting the south of France but at Peixes, it makes perfect sense. The Peruvian crossed with Mediterranean menu of ceviche, fish carpaccio and tartare makes the most of spectacular local produce. They have two outlets, and the daily 20 euro set menu at both is great value. peixes.fr/
2 Shop for treasures
Just a short walk from the ocean on a stretch of road known as the Cours Saleya there is a spectacular daily outdoor market that is well worth visiting. From Tuesdays to Sundays you’ll find some of the best produce in France (think perfect tomatoes and juicy local olives) alongside an extensive flower market. And on Mondays the area transforms into an epic antique market offering a wide range of treasures.
3 Take a dip
An ocean swim is a must when visiting Nice. There is plenty of public access but the main beach in Nice is covered in small stones. So treat yourself to a sun bed at one of the private beach clubs such as the Plage Beau Rivage. Relax all day under an umbrella, order drinks to your chair and enjoy a lunch of grilled prawns at the adjoining restaurant. plagenicebeaurivage.com/en
4 Sleep in the lap of luxury
Plush hotels are a little thin on the ground in Nice – but that’s all set to change with the arrival of the Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel. This new five-star is located in a renovated Belle Epoque building with ocean views. The top-floor restaurant
Seen by Olivier, boasts the best views on the French Riviera. anantara.com/en/plaza-nice
5 Immerse yourself in art
French artist Henri Matisse lived in Nice for more than 40 years. So the Matisse Museum is a must-see, featuring 31 paintings, 454 drawings and engravings, 38 cut-out gouaches and 57 sculptures by the artist – in addition to his extensive personal collection of art by other artists. musee-matisse-nice.org
6 Sample city secrets
Like any city, Nice has its fair share of tourist-trap restaurants. But there’s plenty of delicious treats to discover, so it’s worth booking in with Secret Food Tours for one of their threehour tours. You’ll sample baked treats, local cheeses plus the famous Salad Niçoise. Upgrade with the drinks package to also enjoy some local Provencal rose wine plus a glass of champagne. secretfoodtours.com/nice/food-tours-nice
Indulge in extreme sports
Feel like taking things up a notch? Nikaia Watersport offers plenty of ways to get your thrills in Nice, from kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding in the Bay of Angels through to waterskiing and tubing. Or sign up for the parasailing option, which will give you a chance to see the city from 30m up in the air. nikaiaglisse.com/en
8 Pamper yourself
Later this year the glamorous Le Negresco hotel will throw open the doors on its latest offering: a luxurious spa dedicated to the art of wellbeing. Spread over 700 sqm this magical space will have private cabins for relaxing, multiple treatment areas and a stunning indoor pool. Plus it will be open to general visitors as well as hotel guests. hotel-negresco-nice.com
9 Soak up some jazz 10 Eat like a local
If you’re visiting in July, book tickets to one of the 30+ events that make up the annual Nice Jazz Festival, which has been running since 1948. It’s the best place to see the current top jazz artists from across the globe. nicejazzfestival.fr
Bypass all in favour of the enduring A Buteghinn’a. Here chef Sophie Agrofoglio has been serving up classic Niçoise dishes like soupe au pistou (vegetable soup), stuffed vegetables and ratatouille for more than 30 years, and the locals still can’t get enough of it. Book ahead.