19 December 2024

Thursday, 12:46

ATTRACTED BY NICE

What to do in the capital of the Côte d'Azur

Author:

01.09.2024

A trip to Nice, the gem of France's Côte d'Azur, provides a magnificent immersion into a realm of luxury, beauty, and exquisite cuisine. This coastal city, characterized by its vibrant Mediterranean climate, promises unforgettable experiences and unique vacations.

 

Best Time

In Nice, as in most Mediterranean resorts, the climate remains mild and pleasant throughout the year. During summer, average temperatures range from 25 to 30°C, occasionally reaching up to 35°C. The water temperature typically rises to between 20 and 25°C, making it ideal for swimming.

In autumn (September to November), the weather is still quite pleasant, hovering around 20 to 25°C, allowing some tourists to swim in the sea well into late October. In winter, the temperatures are mild (10 to 15°C), while spring sees the air warm up to 15 to 20°C and the water temperature rise to between 15 and 18°C. Ultimately, the best time to visit Nice depends on individual preferences. Summer undoubtedly attracts more tourists and offers warm, clear waters for swimming. Conversely, spring and autumn can be tranquil and enjoyable for exploring the city and its surroundings with milder temperatures.

 

To Côte d'Azur airport

If you've decided to vacation in Nice, the first step is to purchase airline tickets. Prices vary depending on the time of year and the airline. On average, a round-trip ticket from Baku costs around 700 euros (including meals and luggage). However, if you are open to using budget airlines, flying at night or during early hours, and do not require large luggage, tickets can be as low as 300-400 euros. For instance, you can find low-cost tickets to Rome and then travel to Nice for an additional 60 euros. The key is to book tickets in advance for the best prices.

The main airport of the Côte d'Azur lies 6 km from the centre of Nice. Various transportation options are available, but the most convenient is by taxi. The typical fare is around 30-40 euros one way, though it may vary depending on the time of day and specific location.

Nice also has regular bus services from the airport, such as lines 98 (Express) and 99 (Rapide), with fares approximately 6 euros. Buses run every 15 to 20 minutes. Additionally, there is a railway station at Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur; a ticket to Nice costs about 2-3 euros. Finally, if you have a driving license and prefer flexibility, car rentals are available directly at the airport.

The T2 tram is another popular and convenient transportation option among tourists and locals alike due to its accessibility and low fare (€1.5). It runs directly in front of both airport terminals, along the Promenade des Anglais, and through the city centre via the main Place Massena to the Port Lympia stop in Old Port Nice. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at the stops. Tram intervals are typically 10-15 minutes, with a journey time of 25-30 minutes to reach the city center.

 

Luxury Hotel or B&B?

Nice offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious five-star hotels to cosy guest-houses and hostels for budget travellers. If you prefer luxury, you can easily spend around 700-800 euros per night for two people in a top-tier hotel that provides exceptional service, lavish rooms with sea views, and a wide array of additional amenities, such as spa centres, fine dining restaurants, and swimming pools. Among the most renowned five-star hotels in the heart of Côte d'Azur is Le Negresco, which stands along the Promenade des Anglais and is frequently photographed by visitors. Rates at Le Negresco are approximately 800 euros (for two people) during summer and drop to around 300-350 euros in autumn and winter.

While Le Negresco is famous, it is not the priciest option among five-star hotels; some can charge between 1900-2000 euros per night during peak season.

Mid-range hotels in Nice provide comfortable accommodations with good service at more budget-friendly prices. They generally feature restaurants, fitness centers, and conference rooms. Nightly rates in these hotels typically range from 100 to 200 euros, though decent options can be found in the city centre for as low as 60 euros—though not during summer. For those on a tighter budget, Nice offers hostels, guest-houses, and smaller hotels with prices starting at around 30 euros.

Accommodation costs in Nice can fluctuate significantly based on seasonality, holidays, and demand; thus, it's advisable to book your stay in advance, particularly during peak travel periods.

 

Cool Attractions

Although Nice is primarily a resort city, it boasts numerous interesting sights. The Promenade des Anglais is among the most prominent attractions. This boulevard stretches for five kilometres along the Côte d'Azur coastline and is well-known for its breathtaking sea views. The promenade features everything a discerning traveller could desire—plazas adorned with exotic palm trees, casinos, prestigious hotels, and historic palace complexes. For instance, tourists can visit the "Mediterranean Palace" by C. Dalmas, which includes access to a small theatre, casino, and hotel.

Also located along the seafront is Le Negresco, a hotel complex established in 1913 that is recognized as one of the world's most luxurious accommodations. Notable figures such as Elton John, Salvador Dali, and members of The Beatles have enjoyed stays here. A striking feature of its exterior is a massive pink dome crafted by one of Eiffel's students. Beneath this domed ceiling hangs a chandelier that once belonged to Nicholas II and now graces the Kremlin.

Wandering through the winding streets of Old Town (Vieux Nice) reveals ancient Baroque architecture from the 16th to 19th centuries alongside charming cafes and shops. Key landmarks in Old Town include the Chapel of Mercy, Palace of Justice, Place Rossetti, and the Clock Tower. Be sure not to miss Place Masséna, where cultural events and festivals frequently occur, as well as Cours Saleya Market—a picturesque venue featuring an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and local products.

One must-visit location is the Opéra de Nice (Nice Opera House). This stunning Baroque structure is one of the city's architectural treasures. Concert ticket prices range from €6 to €94.

Notable highlights include Église Saint-François (Church of St Francis), Matisse Museum, Masséna Museum, Marc Chagall National Museum, Cimiez Monastery, and Colline du Château hill which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and sea. Admission fees for museums in Nice are generally affordable—averaging around €10.

And of course, there are the beaches. If you visit Nice during summer, you can swim and sunbathe in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Several famous beaches are available here; foremost among them is Promenade des Anglais itself. In addition, Beau Rivage beach features cozy club areas and bars perfect for relaxation while enjoying a cocktail. Castel Plage beach lies at the base of Castel Hill, adding unique charm; meanwhile, Blue Beach is favoured for water sports like windsurfing and parasailing. Coco Beach offers cafes and restaurants where you can savour local specialties and fresh seafood dishes. Most beaches in Nice require an entrance fee; however, free options charge only for sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and other amenities. Notably, many beaches are pebbly in nature so wearing special footwear may enhance comfort.

 

Ideal Destinations For Travelling

Numerous intriguing tours and excursions are available from Nice to explore Côte d'Azur and its surroundings. However, keep this in mind: if you wish to partake in these excursions through travel agencies, it will likely come at a steep price. In other words, consider purchasing train tickets or renting a car to discover surrounding towns independently. Reasonably priced tours through travel agencies are hard to find in Nice; our group was advised by staff at the tourist office located directly across from the main train station to pursue this route instead. Tours offered here—such as those to neighbouring Monaco or Monte Carlo—can cost between 250-350 euros while bus or train tickets are available for just 5-11 euros each way. The train ride to Monaco takes about 20 minutes while travelling by bus takes nearly 50 minutes. Visitors can easily explore this principality in one day while seeing famous sites such as the Princely Palace, Oceanographic Museum, and Monte Carlo Casino.

Travelling by train takes approximately one hour from Nice to Cannes with round-trip fares around 17 euros. On a day trip to Cannes you can witness its famed waterfront along with the iconic red carpet from Cannes Film Festival while strolling through Old Town streets; don't miss an opportunity to visit local upscale beaches too!

Alternatively, for about 30 euros with a drive lasting about an hour and a half you can take a day trip to Sanremo—the renowned Italian music capital—but be prepared for a transport change in Ventimiglia since direct rail connections do not exist here.

Additionally from Nice you can venture out to Saint-Tropez—a popular Côte d'Azur resort famous for its association with filming TV series featuring gendarmes starring Louis de Funès. The distance between Nice and Saint-Tropez spans 160 kilometres without direct public transport; expect about 2-2.5 hours travel time costing roughly 35 euros via Saint Raphael.

Overall, Nice serves as an ideal base for various excursions throughout Provence—tourist routes abound featuring visits to wineries set within medieval towns amidst picturesque landscapes. Notably nearby are Esterel mountains offering fantastic hiking trails along with opportunities for cycling or picnicking amongst stunning scenery characterized by rocky cliffs paired with beautiful beaches—perfect spots for outdoor enthusiasts! Furthermore winery tours often include tastings showcasing local wines alongside insights into winemaking processes.

Day trips can also conveniently extend beyond nearby ancient towns like Antibes or Eze—journeys take no longer than thirty minutes round trip costing around €6-8.

 

Culinary Delights

Due its location along Côte d'Azur region , Nice boasts mouthwatering seafood options that entice visitors . Fish dishes typically range from €15-20 per portion at restaurants . Dining establishments throughout Nice offer diverse selections showcasing traditional Provençal cuisine—including ratatouille , bouillabaisse (fish soup appetizer) ,and boubagnié (stewed meat appetizer).

On average expect lunch prices at modest eateries around €20-30 excluding alcohol . Dinner averages €30-50 or more per person depending on establishment chosen . Light snacks such as sandwiches found within cafes/bistros hover between €5-10 while coffee/tea usually costs between €2-5 .

In Old Town visitors will encounter numerous cosy cafes/bistros serving affordable lunches/snacks . Many restaurants/cafes frequently promote special deals offering discounted lunches/dinners—for instance lunch packages might cost only €15-20 covering soup , salad ,and main course . Asian restaurants provide buffet-style dinners priced around €25 . Street markets & stalls scattered throughout Nice showcase assorted snacks & meals available at very reasonable rates—an excellent opportunity for sampling local favourites without overspending!

Visiting farmers' markets such as Cours Saleya Market allows guests access fresh produce at lower prices enabling them prepare own meals if residing within self-catering accommodation.

Nice has been described as a destination where luxury meets beauty—providing an unforgettable experience tailored those seeking indulgence during their travels . Immerse yourself fully into this sophisticated atmosphere & relish every moment spent exploring !



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