Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais. This iconic seaside boulevard stretches for seven kilometres along the Bay of Angels, where the Mediterranean sparkles in the early light and pastel buildings, swaying palm trees, and elegant Belle Époque architecture set a magical scene. Next, make your way to Castle Hill (Colline du Château), the best spot in Nice for panoramic views of the city and coast. You can walk up or take the elevator from the end of the Promenade des Anglais. At the top, lush gardens, ancient ruins, and a cascading waterfall await, making it the perfect place to kick off your Riviera adventure. Enjoy the views and let the beauty of Nice inspire your day.

After soaking up the views from Castle Hill, head down into the heart of Vieux Nice (Old Nice), a charming maze of narrow, colourful streets packed with local character. Stroll past quaint boutiques, lively squares, and the stunning Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, an architectural gem in the middle of it all. Make your way to Cours Saleya Market, where vibrant flower stalls, fresh produce, and Provençal delicacies create a feast for the senses. If you're visiting in the morning, grab a slice of socca, a traditional chickpea pancake, for a true local experience. For lunch, find a cosy café in Place Rossetti, a lively square surrounded by ochre-hued buildings. Afterward, treat yourself to a scoop (or two!) of artisanal gelato from one of Nice’s famous ice cream shops.

As the sun starts to set, head to Port Lympia, where luxury yachts and colorful fishing boats create the perfect Riviera backdrop. Find a harborside bar, order a refreshing drink, and soak in the chic yet laid-back atmosphere as the evening glow reflects off the water.

For dinner, indulge in classic Niçoise cuisine at one of the many inviting restaurants nearby. Try Salade Niçoise, ratatouille, or pissaladière (a delicious Provençal onion tart), paired with a glass of local rosé or pastis. Whether you choose a cosy spot in Old Town or a seafront terrace by the port, this is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the flavours of Nice.

Kick off your second day with a visit to the Musée Matisse, a must-see for art lovers. Dedicated to Henri Matisse, who called Nice home for much of his life, the museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century villa and showcases an inspiring collection of his works.

Set within the peaceful Cimiez Gardens, the area is perfect for a leisurely morning stroll among centuries-old olive trees and ancient Roman ruins. Just a short walk away, visit the Monastery of Cimiez, a hidden gem with stunning frescoes and panoramic city views. This calm and scenic retreat offers a perfect balance before diving back into Nice’s lively streets.

For a laid-back afternoon, head to Nice’s public beaches, where you can relax on a sun lounger, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or simply soak up the Riviera sunshine. The clear blue waters and scenic coastline make it the perfect place to unwind before the evening.

If you’re in the mood for a short escape, hop on a bus or train to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a postcard-perfect coastal village just 15 minutes away. Stroll along the charming harborfront, explore the historic Citadel, or enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water. With its colorful buildings, relaxed vibe, and breathtaking sea views, Villefranche-sur-Mer offers a peaceful contrast to the buzz of Nice.

Spend your last evening in Place Masséna, Nice’s grand central square, where striking red façades, elegant arcades, and modern art installations create a vibrant setting. Take a final leisurely stroll through the Jardin Albert 1er, a beautiful green space connecting the square to the Promenade des Anglais. Wrap up your trip with a classic French apéritif at a lively terrace café, soaking in the buzzing atmosphere of the city one last time. Whether you’re reminiscing about scenic Riviera views, incredible food, or charming Old Town streets, Nice leaves a lasting impression!