How to Spend Three Days in Nice France
Are you planning a trip to the French Riviera and wondering how much time to spend in Nice?
What are the best things to see and do? How should you create your itinerary to make the most of your trip?
Use this guide to plan your three-day adventure to Nice, France!
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A trip to southern France wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beautiful seaside town of Nice. Here you will find plenty of interesting sights and activities to enjoy. A well-thought-out itinerary will ensure that you make the most of your time, have a realistic plan and stay within budget. You’ll also be able to book flights, train or car rentals and reserve accommodations in advance.
As tempting as it can be to have a jam-packed itinerary, it’s best to prioritize must-see destinations. Give yourself enough time to discover the highlights, but remember you won’t be able to see everything Nice has to offer. Have some flexibility built in to your itinerary for unforeseen circumstances, such as inclement weather, flight or train delays.
This guide is structured to provide an overview of the best activities, historical sites, beaches and cultural experiences that can be accomplished during a 3-day visit. Adjust accordingly to suit your own travel timeline, budget and personal preferences.
How Many Days to Spend in Nice
The main highlights of Nice can be seen in three days. This is the perfect amount of time for first-time visitors spending an extended weekend in the city. Nice is an essential stop if you are visiting southern France or if you are continuing on to see other parts of Europe.
Do you prefer to pack in as much as possible in a short period of time or travel at a more leisurely pace?
Are you visiting in the summer when there are plenty of daylight hours for exploring?
Are you travelling luxuriously or on a budget?
Take into consideration your arrival and departure time when creating your itinerary. This guide assumes travellers have three full days available to explore. Even if you only have a short period of time, exploring Nice for a few days will certainly be worthwhile.
Nice – Three Day Itinerary
This itinerary has been created with the must-see highlights presented in a logical, geographical order. Follow this route to maximize your travel time and make the most of your budget. There are several places in Nice that are free to visit.
Decide ahead of time which attractions you want to explore in more detail. This will help you to better organize your trip and to figure out if your itinerary is going to be jam-packed or more easy-going. Some travellers prefer the non-stop pace, while others would rather have a little down-time.
Nice is considered a luxury travel destination, so it’s best to have an idea of how much things cost before you arrive. Costs for airfare, accommodation, meals and entertainment add up quickly if you are not prepared. Planning in advance is the best way to save money and to have an unforgettable experience. With so much to see in Nice, let’s get started!
Day 1 –Vieux Nice
The majority of travellers arrive in the city by air through Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), or by train via the city’s main station: Gare de Nice-Ville.
- From the airport, board the tram (Tram #2) which will transport you into the city centre in less than 30 minutes. Stop at Jean Médecin Station. From here you can transfer to Tram #1 if needed.
- From the train station, Gare de Nice-Ville, board the tram (Tram #1) to reach central Nice. The tram costs €1.50 for a single ticket or €10.00 for a multi-trip ticket.
Consider purchasing a French Riviera Pass with the option to add unlimited travel on the public transportation system in Nice, including transfers to and from the airport.
Once you have arrived in Central Nice, check into your accommodation. If you have arrived prior to check-in, ask your hotel/hostel staff if there is a secure place to store your belongings. It’s time to start exploring the city!
Nice is a walkable city, but can be physically demanding as temperatures soar in the summer season. Fortunately, there is an excellent public transportation system (tram) that can help make the trip a little easier. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tours are also available offering safe, affordable and convenient transportation around Nice.
Today you will spend time in the heart of Nice. Visit some of the city’s oldest landmarks in the Old Town. Browse the shops and taste delicious food purchased from the market. Enjoy a drink on a rooftop patio overlooking the city and the sea. Make your way to the Vieux Nice district. Opéra – Vieille Ville and Cathédrale – Vieille Ville are the closest tram stations.
1. Le Vieux Nice
Le Vieux Nice is the historic centre of the city. The neighbourhood is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets with hidden corners and courtyards. Wander into the shadows to discover charming shops, market vendors, restaurants and cafes with sidewalk terraces. Landmarks worth visiting here include the Nice Cathedral, Place Rossetti and the Cours Saleya Market.
Join a guided walking tour to enrich your travel experience. Learn about the history of the city and uncover places you may never have found on your own. Guided food tours are also available. Discover local-approved restaurants and try new flavourful Niçoise delicacies.
2. Cours Saleya Market
Cours Saleya is a vibrant market located in the heart of the Old Town. Arrive early for the best selection of fresh cut flowers, fruits and vegetables. This market is held daily from Tuesday to Sunday. The Antique Flea Market, selling jewellery, books and vintage clothing, takes over the stalls in the old quarter every Monday.
3. Colline du Chateau
Climb the stone steps or take the elevator (Ascenseur du Chateau) to reach Colline du Chateau, the former fortress overlooking Nice and the Mediterranean Sea. At the top of Castle Hill, you will find cathedral ruins, ancient cemeteries and an artificial waterfall. Observation decks provide panoramic views of the Port and French Riviera (Panorama de la Baie des Anges).
Cost: Free.
4. Le Negresco
Admire the architectural beauty of Le Negresco, a luxury hotel, and unique landmark along the Promenade des Anglais. Look for the pink domed roof and gold lettering, this 5-star building has stood proudly in Nice for over 100 years.
Even if you are unable to afford to stay here overnight, treat yourself to a drink at Le Negresco Bar. If you aren’t ready to end your night just yet, join a pub crawl or make your way to one of the famous jazz clubs in Vieux Nice.
Day 2 – Promenade des Anglais
Wake up this morning to the smell of fresh baked bread and coffee. Find a local café and treat yourself to mouth-watering French pastries, such as croissants and scones. After a delicious meal, spend the rest of the day strolling the Mediterranean coastline and relaxing on the beach.
1. Place Masséna
The main public square in Nice holding public events and festivals year-round. The area is lined with palm trees and bordered by large red ochre buildings. The Apollo Statue and Fountain is a famous landmark here. Closed to vehicle traffic, Place Masséna is only accessible on foot or by tramline. The Promenade des Anglais and Mediterranean Sea are a short walk away.
2. Promenade des Anglais
Nice is famous for its grand walkway that spans seven-kilometers along the Mediterranean coastline. The Promenade des Anglais is lined with palm trees and regal palaces. Cover more ground by renting a bike or joining a guided bike tour. Return in the evening to listen to the calming sound of the waves and watch the sunset.
3. #ILoveNice
The #ILoveNice sign is a popular tourist landmark found along the Quai Rauba Capeu. Snap a photo of the sign with the Promenade des Anglais and Mediterranean Sea as its backdrop.
4. Plage de Nice
Nice has several public and private beaches found within walking distance from the city centre. The Mediterranean coastline is great for swimming and sunbathing. Bring water shoes to protect your feet from the pebbled shores.
Public beaches are free but often very crowded and a target for thieves. Private beaches are typically associated with hotels offering loungers, food/beverage service, lockers and showers. Regardless of which beach you choose, you are sure to have a relaxing day in the sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
As the sun sets, meet up with friends or fellow travellers to discover the amazing nightlife in Nice. There are several pubs and bars to choose from. Enjoy it this evening or go back to your accommodation to rest and prepare for another full day of exploring tomorrow.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Monaco
The French Riviera offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Take advantage of your time while in Nice, and escape to nearby day-trip destinations. Visit a new city, with new foods, cultural experiences and historical sites. Today will take you across the border into the neighbouring country of Monaco.
1. Monte Carlo
A popular day trip from Nice, the country of Monaco is only 30 minutes away by train. Explore the streets of Monte Carlo, the playground for the rich and famous Here you will find high-end shopping, fine dining, luxury yachts and fancy cars.
Must see attractions in Monte Carlo include:
- Prince’s Palace
- Port Hercule Marina
- Saint Nicholas Cathedral
- Circuit de Monaco (Formula One Monaco Grand Prix)
- Monte Carlo Casino
Relax at the beach and take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea before boarding a train back to Nice. Depending on your schedule, you may have a final night at your accommodation before heading off to another part of the county or you may need to prepare for a flight home. Although it was a brief visit, you will leave Nice with memories that last a lifetime!
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Nice, France!
- Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book your flight with SkyScanner.
- Book tours with Get Your Guide.
- Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with G Adventures.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.
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Have any questions about planning your trip to Nice, France? Please share your questions or comments below!
