Introduction
Though its history goes back to 350 BC, when the ancient Greeks dedicated it to the goddess Nike, the capital of the French Riviera and fifth largest city of France remains as cool as the breeze blowing on the famous promenade of the Promenade des Anglais . Here, in front of the emblematic hotel “Negresco”, the English aristocracy of the 19th century, which first appreciated the mild winters and the pleasant summers of the beautiful city.
In Nice today, besides blue waters, you will find a beautiful Old Town, an interesting artistic movement with 19 museums and galleries and a multitude of historic buildings, such as the Opera and Cathedrale Orthodoxe Russe St-Nicolas, renovated in 2010 to celebrate 150 years since the annexation of the city to the French state.
Many of these attractions, are located around its squares, which are always very lively with their cafes and restaurants, while the pedestrian streets have given them a strong urban character.
In Place Massena, the typical buildings in the ocher and red tones are justifying by the Italian days of the city, at the Place du Palais with the gorgeous watch you will see people sitting on the steps of the Palais de la Justice and watching a concert at Cours Saleya. In addition, Place Rossetti in the heart of the Old Town with the Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate and the, it is indeed the best option for nightlife.
Worth visiting
Musee d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC)
Its permanent collection attempts to illustrate the parallel evolution of pop art in France and America from 1960 until today, with works by Liechtenstein, Warhol and others. It is stunning panoramic views from its terrace (www.mamac-nice.org).
Musee des Beaux-Arts de Nice
This small museum is housed in a former 1878 prince residence with high ceilings and an impressive marble staircase. Its collections include mainly sculptures (Z.M. Carlo, Rod, Roden) and paintings (Monet, Sisley) from the 16th century till today (www.musee-beaux-arts-nice.org).
Musee National Marc Chagall
Gorgeous and elaborate by the painter himself, he initially housed a series of works inspired by the Bible. Today it’s the world’s most comprehensive collection (www.musee-chagall.fr).
Musee Matisse de Nice
Housed in a luxurious 17th-century residence, it includes a representative collection of paintings (paintings, photographs, books, sculptures) as well as personal items (www.musee-matisse-nice.org).
Musee Massena
Recently renovated, it is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building from 1898 and shows the history of the city from the 19th century onwards. The gardens of the museum are eyebrows.
Parc du Chateau, Nice
Sometime fortress due to its altitude, it offers panoramic views of the Old Town. An artificial waterfall and an old tower complete the picture in this beautiful park on the southern edge of the city.
Where to stay
Villa La Tour (4 Rue de la Tour, T / + 33 (0) 4 93 800815, www.villa-la-tour.com). It is located in the heart of the old town in an old 18th-century monastery and has 14 rooms, recently renovated.
Villa Rivoli (T / + 33 (0) 4 93 888025, www.villa-rivoli.com). Three-star hotel in a 1890 building. Like your home in the heart of Nice! It features 26 well-appointed rooms and free wireless internet. The nearest beach is just a two-minute walk away.
Le Petit Palais (www.petitpalaisnice.com). Atmospheric and quiet hotel on the hill of Cimiez. A first-rate choice, in one of Nice’s most beautiful spots.
