Lifestyle
Gray's Guides
Nice

Nice

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast in the French Riviera, Nice is a stunning blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant history. With its iconic Promenade des Anglais, charming old town, and sun-kissed beaches, Nice offers an unforgettable French getaway. From world-class museums to incredible dining and shopping, Nice is a city that blends art, relaxation, and the Mediterranean lifestyle in the most enchanting way.

Stay

From family-run inns to world-renowned luxury resorts, find a welcoming home away from home.

Hotel Negresco

One of the most iconic hotels in Nice, the Hotel Negresco boasts a history of opulence and elegance. Located right on the Promenade des Anglais, this Belle Époque masterpiece offers luxury rooms, stunning sea views, and a truly unique atmosphere that feels like stepping into a French fairytale.

Hotel Beau Rivage

A boutique hotel right on the beachfront, Hotel Beau Rivage combines modern comfort with traditional Mediterranean charm. With its chic design, private beach access, and prime location near the Old Town, it’s a fantastic option for beach lovers.

Hotel La Perouse

Located on the hillside above the Old Town, Hotel La Perouse offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views of the sea and the city. With its charming rooms and private garden, it’s perfect for those looking for a serene yet close-to-the-action getaway.

Hôtel du Couvent

My first choice for design, Hôtel du Couvent is truly a standout in Nice. As part of the Luxury Collection group, this 5-star hotel is nestled at the base of Colline du Château. With its stunning gardens and 88 chic rooms, the hotel offers a sense of intimacy and tranquility. The design focuses on natural tones and sophisticated details, making it one of the most beautifully crafted hotels in the city. If you're a design enthusiast, this is where you want to stay in Nice.

Le Meridien Nice

Situated directly on the Promenade des Anglais, this stylish hotel offers modern accommodations and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Ideal for both relaxation and exploring the city, it’s a great base for your Nice adventure.

Eat

Dining out is an essential part of any travel experience. Explore our favorite restaurants, bars, and more.

La Petite Maison

A Nice institution, La Petite Maison offers classic Mediterranean and Niçoise cuisine with a sophisticated twist. Famous for its fresh seafood, rich flavors, and celebrity clientele, this is a must-visit spot for a memorable meal in the city.

Le Chantecler

Located within the Hotel Negresco, Le Chantecler is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite French cuisine. Perfect for a special occasion, the elegant setting and refined menu will transport you straight into the heart of French culinary excellence.

Le Safari

Situated in the heart of Old Nice, Le Safari is known for its authentic Niçoise specialties like socca, salade niçoise, and fresh seafood. The relaxed ambiance and delicious dishes make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Café de Turin

For seafood lovers, Café de Turin is a historic seafood restaurant offering fresh oysters, mussels, and a variety of local seafood. A lively spot with a bustling atmosphere, it’s perfect for indulging in the flavors of the French Riviera.

Boccaccio

If you're craving a high-quality seafood feast, Boccaccio is a top choice in Nice. Known for its impressive seafood platters, this charming restaurant offers an elegant yet cozy dining experience.

Drink

Explore our favorite bars.

Le Plongeoir

Perched on a rock with stunning views of the Mediterranean, Le Plongeoir is a unique bar and restaurant offering cocktails, light bites, and a breathtaking setting. The perfect spot to sip on a cocktail while watching the sunset over the sea.

Les Distilleries Idéales

For those seeking a unique drinking experience, this cocktail bar offers expertly crafted drinks with a twist. The charming interior and innovative cocktails make it a must-try for those looking to explore the local cocktail scene.

Plage Beau Rivage

Offering better food, better drinks, and better service than its competitors, it’s one of the few beaches in Nice that offers rentable private cabanas, which are absolutely worth the splurge. The atmosphere is lively, with DJs playing beach house sets in the afternoons and evenings, making it an unforgettable spot to relax by the sea.

Le Canon

A newer addition to Nice’s bar scene, Le Canon offers an impeccable farm-to-table menu paired with an extensive organic and biodynamic wine list. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the wines, many of which are not exported outside France, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Because of its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, as it’s not the easiest place to get a table.

What to do

Immerse yourself in local activities — including world-class golf courses, beaches, spas, parks, and more.

Promenade des Anglais

A stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais is a must when in Nice. Enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean, the palm-lined avenue, and the lively atmosphere of this world-famous seaside walkway.

Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Wander through the winding streets of Old Nice, where you can admire colorful buildings, quaint shops, and the charming squares. Don’t forget to visit the bustling Cours Saleya market and stop for a coffee at one of the many cafés.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

For panoramic views of Nice and the coastline, head up to Castle Hill. You can either hike up or take the elevator to the top, where you’ll find the ruins of an old castle, beautiful gardens, and stunning vistas.

Art Museums

Nice is home to a number of world-class museums, including the Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum. Art enthusiasts will love exploring the works of these renowned artists and others who have been inspired by the region.

Beach Day

Whether you prefer a private beach club or the public pebbled shores, a day spent at one of Nice’s beaches is a perfect way to relax and soak in the Mediterranean sun.

Culture

Discover local art museums, theaters, landmarks, festivals, and more.

Nice Carnival

Held every February, the Nice Carnival is one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world. With its parades, dazzling floats, and colorful costumes, it’s a lively celebration of Nice’s vibrant culture and history.

Opéra de Nice

For a night of culture, catch a performance at the Opéra de Nice. Whether it’s an opera, ballet, or concert, this beautiful venue offers an incredible cultural experience in the heart of the city.

Nissa La Bella

Embrace the local nickname for Nice, Nissa La Bella (Nice the Beautiful), and take in the city’s rich heritage. From historical architecture to the unique Niçoise lifestyle, every corner of Nice offers a chance to discover its deep-rooted culture.

Musée Matisse

Dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, this museum located in the Cimiez neighborhood celebrates the life and art of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. It’s a must-see for art lovers in Nice.