Location & Transportation
When approaching Nice by ship, take a moment to enjoy the view from deck. If you’re arriving on a smaller ship at the Quai du Commerce, you’ll immediately notice the palm tree-lined Promenade des Anglais and a lively mix of bars and bistros near the port Limpia on the east side of the Baie des Anges. It’s about a 30-minute walk to the heart of Vieux Nice, where you can wander through narrow streets and soak up the historic atmosphere. There’s usually a free shuttle service available during the season.
For those on larger cruise ships, vessels often anchor in nearby Villefranche.
Traveling further can be very easy—various bus lines serve the port area:
- From the airport, take the express line 98 departing from Terminals T1 and T2 to reach the downtown bus station (Gare Routiere).
- Alternatively, route 99 takes you directly to Nice’s main train station (Gare Nice Ville SNCF).
Nearby Lodging
Nice offers a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to guest houses. Many options are conveniently located along the Promenade des Anglais and in Vieux Nice. Popular choices include the iconic Hotel Negresco and modern hotels with views of the sparkling Mediterranean.
Nearest Airport
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is the main international gateway, located just a short drive from the city center. You can easily catch a bus or taxi from the airport to the port area. For more details on schedules and connections, check the Nice Airport website.
Sightseeing
There’s so much to see in Nice on foot. Don’t miss:
- The world-famous Promenade des Anglais – a lively, palm-lined boulevard perfect for a stroll.
- The striking Russian Orthodox Cathedral with its colorful onion domes.
- Vieux Nice (the old town), where narrow streets burst with local charm, vibrant markets, and bright flowers.
- Enjoy wandering along Cours Saleya, known for its elegant promenade and the famous flower market (closed on Mondays).
Tours & Excursions
A great way to explore Nice is by hopping on a tourist train or using the Hop on/off bus service which lets you catch the city’s main highlights at your own pace.
Local bus lines and the new tram service also make it easy to reach nearby gems:
- Consider a day trip to St. Paul de Vence, a charming medieval village known for its art galleries and the Fondation Maeght museum.
- Several buses link Nice with popular coastal destinations such as Monaco, St-Tropez, and Cannes.
- The SNCF station, just a 10-minute walk from the port, offers coastal and regional train journeys that let you explore further along the Côte d’Azur.
Shopping
For shoppers, a stroll west of Place Masséna reveals designer boutiques along rue du Paradis, rue Masséna, rue de la Liberté, rue Alphonse Karr, and avenue de Suède. Bear in mind that some areas (like Place Masséna and avenue Jean Médecin) might experience temporary disruptions due to tram route construction.
Don’t miss the antiques and brocante market at Place Robilante (next to the old port), held Tuesday through Saturday, where you can find historical treasures and unique souvenirs.
Dining
Nice’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Provençal and Italian influences. Be sure to sample local specialties such as:
- Pissaladière – a savory tart with onions, anchovies, and black olives.
- Socca – a crispy pancake made from chickpea flour.
- Stockfissa – a garlicky salt-cod stew. And here’s a little insider tip: some restaurants serve fantastic pizza. Try ordering it “avec une oeuf” (with egg) and finish it with a drizzle of spiced olive oil. Bon appétit!
Culture & Local Events
Nice is not only about beautiful views and places—it has a rich local culture and events that add to its charm.
Local Events
- The Nice Carnival is one of the world’s major carnival events, filling the city with parades, music, and vibrant festivities each February.
- In July, the Nice Jazz Festival transforms the streets with live performances and a laid-back atmosphere.
- You'll also notice that many shops and restaurants take a midday break for lunch, often closing between 12:30 and 2:00 pm, while keeping busy until the early evening.
Additional Cultural Tips:
- The local currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is always a good idea.
- The main tourist office is located at 5 Promenade des Anglais—drop by if you need local advice or help planning a quick excursion.
Safety & Awareness
- Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.
- Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded outdoor areas, and enjoy Nice’s allure while staying aware of your surroundings.