A Day in Nice: Exploring the Jewel of French Riviera

Nice, with its sparkling Mediterranean waters, vibrant old town, and relaxed Riviera charm, is a perfect destination for cruise travelers. Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Morning: Promenade des Anglais and Old Town Charm (3 hours)

Duration: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, Nice’s iconic seaside walkway. Take in the views of the turquoise waters and admire the Belle Époque architecture of the historic hotels and villas (1 hour).

Next, head into the Old Town (Vieux Nice), a maze of colorful streets, lively squares, and charming shops. Visit Cours Saleya Market, where you’ll find fresh flowers, local produce, and delicious pastries (1 hour).

End your morning at Place Rossetti, the heart of the Old Town, where you can admire the Nice Cathedral or enjoy a scoop of gelato from Fenocchio, a legendary local spot (1 hour).

Lunch: Riviera Cuisine (1.5 hours)

Duration: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a café in the Old Town or along the promenade. Try salade niçoise, socca (a chickpea pancake), or pissaladière (onion tart). Pair it with a refreshing glass of Provençal rosé for the full Riviera experience.

Afternoon: Castle Hill and Panoramic Views (2.5 hours)

Duration: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM
After lunch, make your way to Castle Hill (Colline du Château), a historic site with stunning panoramic views of Nice, the Mediterranean, and the Alps. You can take the stairs, an elevator, or a tourist train to the top. Explore the lush park, waterfall, and ruins, and spend time capturing breathtaking photos (1.5 hours).

On your way back down, walk along the Port of Nice, a picturesque area filled with colorful fishing boats and luxury yachts. Stop for a coffee or a quick snack (1 hour).

Late Afternoon: Matisse Museum or Beach Time (1.5 hours)

Duration: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
For art lovers, take a taxi or bus to the Matisse Museum, located in the tranquil Cimiez neighborhood. Spend 1 hour admiring the works of Henri Matisse, inspired by Nice’s light and scenery.

Alternatively, relax at one of Nice’s pebbled beaches. Rent a lounge chair at a private beach club or simply enjoy the view from the public beach areas.

Evening: Back to the Ship (30 minutes)

Duration: 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Head back to the cruise port in Villefranche-sur-Mer or Nice itself. Taxis, buses, and trams are convenient options, and you’ll have time to freshen up before boarding.

Tips for a Day in Nice

Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s plenty of walking, especially in the Old Town and Castle Hill.

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially in summer.

Consider public transport passes if you’re traveling to locations like the Matisse Museum or Cimiez.

Always allow extra time to return to the ship, as traffic on the Riviera can be unpredictable.

This itinerary gives you a taste of Nice’s historic charm, stunning vistas, and delicious cuisine, ensuring a perfect day in this Riviera gem.