France Travel Guide
Nice
Capital of the French Riviera, Nice is one of the most accessible resort towns on the Cote D'Azur. Initially popularised in the 18th century, by English and Russian aristos seeking to avoid the extremes of their own climates, Nice has continued to pack them in ever since. Due to the quality of the rail networks on the coast, Nice is ideally placed to serve as a base for further exploration to some of the more exclusive resorts. A short train ride to the east brings the traveller to Monaco whilst going to the west there is Antibes and Cannes. However being a Mecca for holidaymakers isn't all there is to Nice.
Where to go and What to See
Vieux Nice
The old part of the town retains much of its flavour despite having been updated fairly recently. Modern shops and boutiques mingle with more old style establishments and a wander through the narrow streets can be most rewarding.
Ascend to the nearby Chateau Park, where the city was founded by the Greeks, for excellent views out over the sea and the sprawl of the old town.
The Beach
The main beach in Nice is stony and generally not very nice. Much cleaner is the plage de la Reserve this is the first of several inlets leading away from the port.
Promenade des Anglais
Originally created by English visitors for the purpose of strolling along to take the sea breeze. Most invigoratin' don't you know. This palm-lined boulevard is now most notable for the opulence of the architecture that can be seen along the way. Most lavish of these buildings is the Negresco Hotel, a typical Cote D'Azur luxury hotel.
Museums?
The Musee d'Art et d'Histoire Palais Massena is housed in the former residence of the Prince of Essling. It is devoted chiefly to the history of Nice and Napoleonic times.
The Musee des Beaux-Arts is a former home of a Ukrainian Princess and houses a fine collection of 19th Century French artists including Monet and Degas.
The third museum is the Musee de Terre Amata, which is based around an uncovered fossil beach and reflects prehistoric life in the area.
Anyone for Tennis?
Or Golf or watersports, all are available in or near Nice.
Food and Drink and a place to Sleep
There is a wide choice of places to stay from the aforementioned Negresco to campsites and hostels.
The same can be said of eating out. French food is always excellent but in Nice it comes with an added twist of Italian influence.
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