Things to See and Do

For many years, France has been the world's number one European destination for tourists, and rightly so, being an important centre of art, history, culture and revolution over the years. But as hot summers and crushing crowds of tourists continue to flock to see what France has to offer, you might find yourself yearning to discover a quieter side of the country. Nice, on the south east coast in the French Riviera is the perfect place to do just that.

A neighbour to popular French resort town Cannes, Nice is actually becoming France's second most important centre of tourism. The local economy is focused heavily on tourism, resulting in a town which is well equipped to cater to its visitors needs. Here we look at some of the highlights of Nice. Don't miss out on these must see attractions...

Vieux "old" Nice

To acquaint yourself with Nice's relaxed holiday atmosphere, head to the old town, Vieux Nice and step back in time through the narrow, winding streets.You'll see brightly painted French apartments, tiny squares and plazas and Cathedrals, some dating back to the 17^th Century. Real French patisseries, restaurants, boutique shops and art galleries will keep you amused for hours. Enjoy the charming old world atmosphere of this chic town as you sip a cafe au lait or sample some of the local Niscoise specialties for lunch. A visit to the Palais Lascaris- Nice's municipal museum is a must do and will cost you absolutely nothing.

Cours Saleya

The markets held in this charming part of the old town are a sensory experience to say the least. Tuesday to Sunday you will find fresh produce markets selling fruit, vegetables and beautiful local fresh flowers. On Monday the markets are replaced with an antique flea market. When you've finished shopping, take a break at one of the many cafe's lining the street and soak up the atmosphere.

Matisse Museum

Culture vultures will enjoy a trip to the Matisse Museum. This 17^th Century villa was once the home of Fauvist master Henri Matisse who lived from 1869- 1954.  The building has been converted into a tribute to his life and work. There's hundreds of examples of his work including sketches, drawings, paintings, sculptures and pottery that were completed at various points of his career, including "Fruits and Flowers", his last complete work before his death. Open from 10am and closed on Tuesdays, entry is just 4 euros for an adult and children under 12 are free. A family picnic in the villas olive grove is a great way to end your visit to the museum.

Le Chateau

One of the best views in the French Riviera. Le Chateau is the site of Nice's old Cathedral, of which is mostly gone except for a few ruins. The view looks out over the harbour and port of Nice and the red rooftops of the city- especially spectacular at sunset. You can take a walk through the old cemetery and there's also a park for the children. Adults will enjoy the cafe which sells snack and cold drinks. You can either walk up the steps which start at Quai des Etats Unis, or take the elevator instead. A the tourist train which leaves from the Promenade de Anglais is also another easy ride to the top.

Promenade de Anglais

This seaside esplanade is perfect for a casual stroll or some heart pumping exercise at any time of the day or night. Lined with palm trees and blue and white deck chairs you can relax and enjoy views of the Mediterranean sea or the luxury hotels and residences lining the way across the road. Take your pic from plenty of seaside restaurants with the best view in town, and a price tag to match, hire a bike or roller blades or enjoy an after dinner walk to help the food go down.

Beaches

Plenty of people come to Nice to enjoy the clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea, especially during the months of July and August when thirty degree heat is common. There are 5kms of beaches in the area and about 15 private beaches where a fee (usually around 15 euros) is charged. This usually includes a sun lounge but not a towel. You are also unable to bring your own snacks and drinks and the prices at beach restaurants are quite high.

There are public beaches also but are usually very crowded. The waters is usually very calm and safe for young children, but instead of fine sand, expect to find small round pebbles or ‘galets' as they are locally known. The locals seem to manage with just a towel or sarong but visitors often find them uncomfortable. Try a half inflated air mattress or a beach mat and layers of towels to cushion yourself.

Rue de France

This lively pedestrian streets runs parallel to the sea and is the perfect place to find a unique gift to take home with you. You'll find all sorts of boutiques, clothing and souvenir stores as well as plenty of gourmet food shops- the perfect place for finding gifts and watching the world go by. In summer there are usually street performers to keep the kids entertained while you shop!

Russian Cathedral

At first glance, the Russian Orthodox Cathedral may look a little odd in amongst Nice's Baroque and Art Deco architecture, but since the end of the 19^th Century, the Russian community in Nice has been a strong one.

Considered by some to be the most exquisite example outside of Russia itself, it is definitely a masterpiece and worth the cheeky 3 euro charge to see inside. Built in 1912 and dedicated to Tsar Nicholas II, the Cathedral houses many examples of fine religious artifacts, many decorated with gold guilt or encrusted with semi precious stones. The woodwork and frescoes are also awe inspiring.

Archaeological Museum

Relics in Nice from Roman times, like the thermal baths and amphitheatres date back as early as the 2^nd Century AD. The archaeological museum of Nice, located in the Cimiez district offers and interesting insight into Nice's historic past, from Roman times through to the Middle ages. Its 4 euros entry for adults, but for an extra 1.50 euros you can take a 90 minute guided tour on Wednesdays only. Opening hours vary from season to season but generally its Tuesday- Sunday from 10am.

Photographic Museum

For something a bit different, the Theatre de la Photographie et de L'Image museum has free entry and an excellent permanent collection of black and white images of landscape, portrait and still life, plus regular temporary exhibitions all year round. Its housed inside a beautifully restored French theatre and is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-6pm on Dubouchage Boulevard.

Look yourself in to one of the holiday apartments in Nice. These are great options. You will find the prices affordable and the atmosphere so finely tuned you won't want to go anywhere else.