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Dreaming of a few sun-soaked days in Nice but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place.
After exploring the city’s colorful markets, seaside promenades, and hidden corners, we’ve put together the perfect 3-day itinerary to help you experience the best of Nice, without cramming too much in. From charming Old Town streets and scenic coastal cruises to food tours and day trips to glamorous Monaco, this plan blends iconic sights with plenty of time to simply enjoy the Riviera’s laid-back vibe.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more, this guide is packed with everything we wish we knew before our first trip. Let’s dive into three unforgettable days in Nice!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this food tour of Nice! We dove into the famous Niçois cuisine, found the best local spots, and ate so much yummy food – all while exploring the city!
Day 1
Breakfast – Marinette
Start your first morning in Nice on a delicious note with a stop at Marinette. This cozy, stylish café is a local favorite tucked into the heart of Old Town. It opens at 8:30 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your busy day of sightseeing begins.
Keep it light with a buttery croissant or tartine and a café crème, soaking up the relaxed local vibe that makes mornings in Nice so special—and with the café just a quick 6-minute walk from today’s tour meeting point, it’s the perfect start to your first day!
Morning – Old Nice and Castle Hill walking tour
Exploring Old Nice on foot is one of the best ways to soak in the city’s vibrant history and charm—and this walking tour made it even better! We recommend choosing the 10 am to 12:15 pm tour so you can ease into your day and still have plenty of time to explore afterward.
The tour kicks off at the lively Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, where colorful stalls overflow with fresh flowers, produce, and local specialties. From there, you’ll stroll through Old Nice’s pastel-hued streets as your local guide shares stories about the city’s Baroque churches, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old traditions you’d likely miss on your own.
Next, you’ll ride the lift (yes, there’s a lift!) up to Colline du Château (Castle Hill)—a much easier option than trekking up on foot. The tour officially ends here, but you’ll want to stick around to take in the sweeping views over Nice’s rooftops and coastline. Don’t miss the stunning waterfall at the top, one of Castle Hill’s most beautiful and unexpected highlights!
This tour is the perfect way to dive into Nice’s history, culture, and scenery right from the start of your trip.
Check availability here and book this top-rated walking tour!
Lunch – Lu Fran Calin
After your morning tour and a stroll around Castle Hill, it’s time to refuel! Just a short 15-minute walk from Castle Hill, Lu Fran Calin is a cozy spot that serves up hearty, traditional Niçoise dishes in a relaxed setting. It’s the perfect place to slow down, grab a table outside, and enjoy a laid-back local lunch.
Depending on which museum you plan to visit next, you can either stop here now or find a spot closer to your next stop. The museums in Nice are pretty spread out, so be prepared for a bit of walking—most are about a 30-minute stroll away.
You could also hop on the tram, though it usually takes about the same amount of time as walking. If you’re short on time (or just want to rest your feet), Uber is another easy and relatively affordable option around the city.
Whether you decide to dig into a plate of Niçoise specialties here or save lunch for later, taking a little time to recharge will set you up for a great afternoon of art and culture!
Afternoon – Visit a museum
Nice is packed with amazing museums, and this afternoon (and tomorrow!) is the perfect time to dive into the city’s art and culture scene. Whether you’re a big museum person or just want to pop into a few, there’s something for every mood and interest:
- Musée Matisse – Set inside a gorgeous 17th-century villa, this museum holds one of the biggest collections of Henri Matisse’s work. It’s bright, colorful, and such a peaceful spot to wander—especially if you love his playful style.
- Musée National Marc Chagall – This museum focuses on Chagall’s vivid, dreamlike art, with an entire series based on Biblical stories. Even if you’re not super into religious themes, the colors and imagination here are seriously impressive.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts Jules-Chéret – A bit more under the radar, this museum feels like stepping into an old-world mansion, with art ranging from the 16th century to early modern works. It’s a great choice if you’re craving a classic art fix.
- Musée Masséna – Housed in a stunning Belle Époque villa, this museum tells the story of Nice itself, from the Napoleon era to the glamorous Riviera days. Plus, the building alone is worth the visit.
- Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre – Tucked right in Old Town, this cozy museum rotates photography exhibits that are always thought-provoking (and it’s an easy stop if you’re already wandering nearby).
Optional activity: Relax on a French Riviera sightseeing cruise
After a busy morning, you might not want to spend the entire afternoon inside museums, and if that’s the case, this sightseeing cruise is an optional tour we highly recommend. It’s just an hour long, so you’ll have plenty of time for an extended lunch or a relaxed visit to Castle Hill before heading to the port for the 3:00 pm cruise.
Of course, if you’d rather keep museum-hopping, you can do that too, or save more museum visits for tomorrow if you prefer. Since the cruise leaves a bit out of the way from the museum areas, it’s a great way to switch things up and see a different side of the Riviera.
The cruise departs from the Port of Nice and glides across the beautiful Baie des Anges. As you relax on the boat, you’ll pass some of the Riviera’s most famous sights, like the Promenade des Anglais, the colorful bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, and the villas perched along Cap Ferrat. The views of the sparkling coastline are truly breathtaking!
The crew couldn’t have been friendlier, and the guide made the trip even better by sharing fascinating stories and fun facts about the places we passed. Plus, the boat itself was modern, clean, and super comfortable, making it easy to sit back, relax, and soak up every minute.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, low-key way to spend the afternoon, this one-hour cruise is a must!
Book your spot on this sightseeing cruise early—it fills up fast!
Evening – Stroll through Old Town
As the sun starts to set, Old Town transforms into one of the most atmospheric parts of Nice, and it’s the perfect place to wander without a map. We spent the early evening strolling the cobblestone streets, taking in the colorful shutters, hidden squares, and the relaxed buzz of locals and visitors alike.
After a bit of exploring, we stopped for drinks at Movida, a lively spot right near the waterfront. With its laid-back vibe and great outdoor seating, it was the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing beverage and watch the evening unfold. You’ll find plenty of other cafés and bars tucked around Old Town, too, so feel free to follow whatever cozy terrace catches your eye.
Dinner – Peixes
After a relaxed stroll and drinks in Old Town, it’s time for a seafood-focused dinner at Peixes. Just a short walk from Movida, this lively spot serves up fresh Mediterranean fish and seafood with a creative, modern twist. The casual-chic vibe and friendly service make it a perfect place to wind down your first full day in Nice.
Peixes is all about sharing plates, so it’s fun to mix and match dishes like ceviche, octopus, and flavorful crudo, paired with a crisp glass of white wine. The atmosphere feels stylish yet relaxed—very Riviera without being too formal.
Related Read: Continuing your France travels? See our 3-day Paris itinerary for our favorite activities, restaurants, and more!
Day 2
Morning – Walk along the Promenade des Anglais
There’s no better way to start your second day in Nice than with a slow, scenic morning along the coast. We grabbed coffee and croissants at Pan, a charming bakery just steps from the water, and it was the perfect low-key breakfast before our food tour later in the day.
After, we spent the morning strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, soaking in the sea breeze, the sparkling views, and the laid-back Riviera vibe. With the sun climbing higher and the Mediterranean sparkling beside us, it was one of those simple, perfect moments that made us fall even more in love with this place.
Since there’s a food tour at 11:00 am, you’ll want to keep breakfast light and leave plenty of room for all the delicious tastes ahead!
Midday: Eat your way through Nice on a food tour
No trip to Nice would be complete without diving into the local food scene—and this small-group food tour was easily one of the highlights of our visit. We recommend choosing the 11:00 am option, which fits perfectly after a relaxed morning along the beach and leaves you with plenty of time to plan your afternoon.
Plus, since the tour finishes at a restaurant about a 17-minute walk (or a quick 4-minute drive) from the Promenade, it’s easy to continue exploring or take a short drive or bus ride to the museums afterward.
Over four delicious hours, we wandered through Nice’s colorful streets, stopping at hidden local gems we never would’ve discovered on our own.
Along the way, we tasted iconic dishes like socca (a crispy chickpea pancake), fresh-out-of-the-oven pissaladière (an onion tart that’s a local favorite), and even delicate artisanal macarons. Every stop came with a story, and our guide made the whole experience feel more like exploring with a foodie friend than being on a typical tour.
The portions were generous (definitely come hungry!), and the small group size kept everything relaxed and personal. The tour ends at a restaurant about a 17-minute walk from the Promenade (or a quick 4-minute drive). If you’re planning to visit museums afterward, most will require a short drive or bus ride.
For a fun, flavorful, and authentic way to experience Nice, this tour is an absolute must—and you don’t just have to take our word for it. Check out the 800+ five-star reviews here to see why travelers love it!
Check availability and reserve your spot here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Visit another museum or relax on the beach
After wrapping up the food tour around 3:00 pm, you’ll still have plenty of afternoon left to enjoy Nice at your own pace. If museums are your thing, this is a great chance to visit one you didn’t get to yesterday—whether it’s the colorful Musée Matisse, the dreamy Musée Marc Chagall, or another favorite that caught your eye.
If you’re craving some rest and relaxation, hit the beach! Nice has a gorgeous pebbly beach, and nothing says “vacation” quite like lying in the sun with the waves crashing in the distance. There are quite a few beaches that follow the promenade, so take your pick and enjoy!
Apéritif – Pre-dinner drinks at Z Restaurant Tapas
Before dinner, take a little time to embrace one of the best French traditions—the apéritif! We headed to Z Restaurant Tapas, a stylish, laid-back spot perfect for unwinding with a pre-dinner drink. It’s a great place to grab a refreshing drink while snacking on a few light tapas.
The vibe at Z is relaxed and lively, with outdoor seating that’s perfect for people-watching or just soaking up the evening energy. It’s the ideal way to transition from a relaxed afternoon into another fun night out in Nice.
Dinner – La Cucina
After a relaxed apéritif, head over to La Cucina for a cozy and delicious dinner. This welcoming Italian restaurant brings the best of Mediterranean flavors to the heart of Nice, offering homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and hearty classics that are full of flavor and soul.
La Cucina has a warm, intimate atmosphere that makes it perfect for winding down your second night. The menu is packed with tempting options, but you really can’t go wrong—everything we tried was fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with a lot of care. Pair your meal with a local drink, and you’ve got yourself the perfect ending to another unforgettable day on the Riviera.
Day 3
Breakfast – Grab on the go!
Today’s tour includes hotel pickup around 9 am, so it’s best to keep breakfast simple and convenient. We recommend grabbing something quick at your hotel or a nearby café before you head out. A coffee and a croissant or a light bite will set you up nicely for the day without feeling rushed. With an exciting adventure ahead, a relaxed, easy breakfast is the way to go!
Take a day trip to Monaco and Eze
Get ready for an exciting day of exploring beyond Nice! This Eze and Monaco day trip is the perfect way to experience two incredible destinations in one easy, well-paced tour. With hotel pickup in the morning and a return around 5:00 pm, it’s a smooth, stress-free way to spend the day—and you’ll still have time to relax before dinner.
The adventure kicks off with a beautiful drive along the coast, heading first to Eze, a stunning medieval village perched high above the Mediterranean. Wandering the narrow, cobblestone streets and soaking in the panoramic views felt like stepping into a storybook. While you’re there, you’ll also visit the famous Fragonard Perfume Factory to learn the secrets behind French perfume-making. It’s a really fun and unique stop!
From there, it’s on to Monaco, where you’ll have plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. You can visit the Prince’s Palace, stroll the charming streets of the old town, and of course, check out the legendary Monte Carlo Casino. Walking along the yacht-lined harbor was a definite highlight!
What really sets this tour apart is how much time you get to actually experience Monaco, without feeling rushed. With over 500 five-star reviews, it’s easy to see why this tour is a traveler favorite—and after experiencing it ourselves, we couldn’t agree more!
Reserve this popular day trip here and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Dinner – Le Bar des Oiseaux
For your final dinner in Nice, it’s only fitting to dive into some traditional Niçoise cuisine—and Le Bar des Oiseaux is the perfect place to do it. Tucked away in Old Town, this cozy, locally loved spot serves up authentic dishes with a creative twist, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The menu changes regularly based on what’s in season, but you can expect to find hearty Niçoise classics alongside inventive specials you won’t find elsewhere. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to savor your last evening, while reflecting on all the incredible memories from your trip.
Le Bar des Oiseaux can get busy (for good reason!), so making a reservation is a great idea if you want to snag a table.
Where to Stay in Nice, France
Now that you’ve explored all the incredible things to do in Nice, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! From luxurious seaside hotels to charming boutique accommodations, Nice offers something for every traveler.
Picking the right spot can make your trip even more memorable, so I’m here to help you choose the right one. I’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Nice below for every budget and travel style!
Luxury – $$$
For a luxurious stay in Nice, the Westminster Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice. Situated right on the iconic Promenade des Anglais, this 4-star hotel offers stunning views and beautifully designed rooms. Guests can relax at the on-site spa, relax on the private beach, or indulge in gourmet dining at the hotel’s restaurant. With its unbeatable location and top-notch amenities, the Westminster is perfect for a truly memorable getaway in Nice!
Prices vary depending on the season and room category you select but usually range from $200 – $400 USD per night. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a stylish and comfortable stay in Nice, the Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare is a fantastic mid-range option. Located just a short walk from the Promenade des Anglais and the train station, this modern hotel offers bright and cheerful rooms with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. We love that it offers complimentary breakfast and is conveniently located close to Nice’s top attractions!
Prices start around $80 USD per night during the low season and around $200 during the busy summer season. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget travelers, the Ibis Budget Nice Californie Lenval is a great option that doesn’t skimp on convenience. Located just a short walk from the beach, this no-frills hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. It is also located close to public transport, making it easy to explore Nice’s attractions without spending a fortune.
Private rooms start at around $60 USD per night in the low season and only $110 USD in the busy season, which is a spectacular deal! Visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Nice’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: Need more help choosing a hotel? Check out our Where to Stay in Nice guide to find the best areas to stay in and our recommended hotels!
Renting a Car in France
France is a dream to explore by car—think lavender fields in Provence, medieval villages in the Dordogne, and coastal drives along the Côte d’Azur. While the train network is excellent, having your own wheels lets you uncover those hidden gems at your own pace. Plus, French drivers are generally courteous, making road tripping here a breeze!
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in France
- Know the local rules: In France, they drive on the right-hand side, and some intersections follow priorité à droite—meaning cars from the right have the right of way, even if you’re on the main road. It’s also mandatory to carry a reflective vest and warning triangle in your car.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in France are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. We love how easy it is to filter for exactly what you need on Discover Cars.
- Watch for restricted zones (LEZs): Many major French cities (like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille) have low-emission or restricted driving zones. These areas often require special permits or advance registration, and driving into them without authorization can lead to fines. Always check ahead if you’re planning to drive into a city center.
- Be prepared for toll roads: France has an extensive network of toll roads (autoroutes). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with a toll transponder for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in France
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Some rental companies may require one.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring France on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
You’re in for a memorable three days in Nice! We had a lovely time here – truthfully, I didn’t want to leave. But three days will give you a taste for all that the French Riviera has to offer, so you’ll be sure to come back!
If you’re continuing your travels, take a look at all of our Europe blogs! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers, so check out these related reads to help you plan your next getaway:
10 Best Things to do in Nice, France