48 Hours in Nice: A Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, blends Mediterranean sunshine, Italian-inspired architecture, and an irresistible Côte d’Azur charm. Travelers often think they need weeks to truly experience this coastal gem, but with careful planning, 48 hours can offer a deep and fulfilling taste of its seaside promenades, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant culinary scene. This weekend itinerary is designed to help you savor Nice’s essence without the overwhelm, giving you a balance of sightseeing, leisure, and local discovery.

From sunrise over the Promenade des Anglais to late-night jazz sessions tucked into atmospheric bars, you’ll find Nice to be a city of layers. This guide breaks down your perfect weekend into manageable adventures, ensures you make the most of your short time, and provides travel hacks- including staying seamlessly connected with eSIM technology like Voye Global’s eSIMs.

Day One Morning: A Gentle Introduction to Nice

Start at Promenade des Anglais

The iconic Promenade des Anglais runs for miles along the sparkling Baie des Anges. Begin your Saturday morning here, walking or renting a bike to absorb the sweeping Mediterranean views. Locals jog past palm trees, while rollerbladers and street performers add rhythm to the promenade. Early mornings are quieter, giving you a moment to enjoy the sea breeze without the crowds.

Tip: Grab a takeaway croissant from a boulangerie nearby, and enjoy a makeshift breakfast perched on one of the trademark blue chairs facing the sea.

Exploring Old Town (Vieux Nice)

From the promenade, wander into the narrow streets of Vieux Nice, the city’s old town. Pastel façades, open-shuttered windows, and cobblestone alleys set the scene. The streets are filled with traditional shops, gelaterias, and cafés. A must-stop is Cours Saleya Market, bursting with flowers, fresh produce, and Provençal specialties.

• Local flavor to try: socca, a chickpea pancake crisped in wood-fired ovens. Pair it with a chilled rosé or lemonade for a light mid-morning snack.
  
• Photo stop: Rue Droite, a vibrant street that often showcases local art galleries.
  

Pause for Coffee in Place Rossetti

In the heart of Old Town lies Place Rossetti, a square framed by the colorful Sainte-Réparate Cathedral. Stop here for coffee or a gelato from the legendary Fenocchio, known for its adventurous flavors like lavender, thyme, and cactus fruit. This pause is both a cultural immersion and a refreshing break before climbing up to the city’s heights.

Day One Midday: Views and History

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

A short climb- or an elevator ride- brings you to Castle Hill, offering the best panoramic view of Nice. From here, the terracotta rooftops of Old Town meet the endless blue of the Mediterranean. While the castle itself no longer exists, the parkland is perfect for strolls, shaded picnics, and taking photographs.

Highlights include:

• The artificial waterfall at the top of the hill.
  
• Vantage points facing both the Promenade des Anglais and Nice Port.
  
• A small playground if you’re traveling with children.
  

Lunch with a Riviera Touch

Head back down toward the sea and choose a bistro along the port for lunch. Dishes like pissaladière (an onion tart with anchovies and olives) or salade niçoise (originating here in Nice) provide authentic flavors. Pair with a crisp glass of local white wine or a sparkling Perrier if you’d prefer a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Day One Afternoon: Museums and Culture

Marc Chagall National Museum

Nice has long been a magnet for artists. Begin with the Marc Chagall National Museum, dedicated to the painter’s biblical works. The vivid colors and poetic brushstrokes immerse you in his world.

• Don’t miss: the stained-glass windows, glowing with Mediterranean light.
  

Matisse Museum

For a deeper dive into modern art, head to the Matisse Museum, located in the elegant Cimiez neighborhood. It showcases the painter’s journey from sketches to bold cut-outs. The museum sits near Roman ruins and olive groves, making it a double-bonus visit.

Day One Evening: Nice by Night

Sunset at Promenade du Paillon

Return downtown to Promenade du Paillon, a long park lined with fountains and art installations. Families often gather here, children run through mist fountains, and musicians bring the park alive. As the sun sets, the park glows softly, offering a romantic setting before dinner.

Dinner in Old Town

Choose a traditional Niçoise restaurant for dinner. Many establishments here specialize in seafood pasta, fresh mussels, or lamb stews infused with Provençal herbs. For dessert, order a tarte tropézienne or lemon sorbet to refresh your palate.

Nightlife Choices

• Jazz Bars: Nice’s jazz scene is celebrated, with cozy venues hosting live performances.
  
• Seafront Cocktails: If you prefer, unwind with a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the Baie des Anges.

Day Two Morning: Exploring Local Life

Morning at Cours Saleya Market (Food Edition)

Return to Cours Saleya, which transforms into a vibrant food market on Sundays. Sample local cheeses, olives, and pastries. This is the perfect spot to stock up on picnic items for later in the day.

Russian Orthodox Cathedral

A hidden architectural gem is the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral, one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches outside Russia. With its onion domes and colorful mosaics, it feels like stepping into another world.

Day Two Midday: Seaside and Beyond

Beach Time at Castel Plage

Nice’s beaches are pebbly but iconic. Castel Plage is a popular private beach where you can rent a lounge chair, swim in the turquoise waters, and order lunch with your toes in the sand. For a budget option, the public beaches along Promenade des Anglais are just as scenic.

Day Trip Option: Villefranche-sur-Mer

If you’d like to venture slightly beyond Nice, hop on a short train ride to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a small fishing village with colorful houses hugging a perfect bay. Lunch here at a seaside café is a tranquil alternative to the busier center of Nice.

Day Two Afternoon: Last Cultural Immersion

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC)

Located downtown, MAMAC showcases avant-garde works and temporary exhibitions. Its rooftop offers yet another striking view of Nice.

Shopping on Avenue Jean Médecin

Dedicate some time to shopping before leaving. International brands sit alongside French boutiques here. For souvenirs, look for Provençal linens, lavender soaps, or olive oil.

Day Two Evening: A Memorable Finale

Sunset at Mont Boron

End your 48 hours with a sunset at Mont Boron, east of the city. From here, the view sweeps across Nice, Cap Ferrat, and even Monaco on a clear day. It’s the perfect reflective moment to close your weekend.

Farewell Dinner

Book a special dinner spot- perhaps at a Michelin-recommended restaurant or a charming trattoria-inspired eatery in the Old Town. End the evening with a final stroll along the illuminated promenade, letting the sound of waves carry the memories of your weekend.

Travel Smarter with Digital Connectivity

In a city as dynamic as Nice, being connected helps you navigate local markets, book last-minute museum tickets, and discover hidden corners. With Voye Global’s eSIM solutions, travelers can skip the hassle of physical SIM cards and enjoy seamless coverage across France and Europe. From map pin drops in Old Town to live train updates for Villefranche-sur-Mer, reliable mobile data can transform your experience.

This is why we include subtle travel hacks tied to connectivity throughout this itinerary- ensuring that your 48 hours in Nice are as smooth as possible.

A Deeper Look into Nice’s Charm

If the first half of your 48-hour adventure gave you a sweeping overview of Nice’s essential sights, the second half is where you can peel back the layers. Nice isn’t simply a coastal city; it’s a living mosaic of Mediterranean history, French elegance, and Italian soul. Exploring its lesser-known quarters, sampling its culinary secrets, and taking advantage of nearby excursions can turn a short weekend into a journey that feels far more expansive.

Hidden Gems in the Old Town

Lascaris Palace

While most visitors crowd Cours Saleya or Place Rossetti, pad into Palais Lascaris, a 17th-century baroque palace-turned-museum. The opulent ceilings, ornate staircases, and collection of antique musical instruments transport you into another era. It’s small, often overlooked, and offers a moment of serenity compared to the bustling streets just outside.

Chapel of Mercy

Tucked along Cours Saleya is the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Its intricate interior makes it one of the city’s architectural jewels. Few tourists realize it exists, yet locals value it as one of Old Town’s most beautiful landmarks.

Local Bakeries and Epiceries

Beyond famous restaurants, explore independent bakeries and épiceries fines (gourmet shops). Here you can find sun-dried tomato tapenades, candied fruits from Provence, and even traditional candied violet petals. These edible souvenirs fit perfectly in your hand luggage and let you bring the flavors of Nice home.

Food Trails You Shouldn’t Miss

Street Food: Socca, Pan Bagnat, and More

Nice’s street food is an experience in itself. The socca from Chez Pipo is legendary, while pan bagnat, essentially a Niçoise salad transformed into a sandwich, is perfect for takeaway. Grab one and head toward the seafront for an easy, filling meal between activities.

Markets Beyond Cours Saleya

Though Cours Saleya is iconic, venture to Libération Market, where locals shop. This market bursts with Mediterranean produce: artichokes, heirloom tomatoes, courgette flowers, and heaps of olives. Pairing these with cheeses and breads gives you the perfect improvised picnic.

Cooking Class Experience

For travelers who want immersion, book a cooking class with a local chef. Many experiences begin with a guided market tour, selecting seasonal produce, followed by hands-on lessons in Provençal kitchens. Not only do you learn to make Niçoise staples, but you also gain cultural context about how food shapes community in Nice.

Art Walks and Creative Corners

Street Art in Nice

While the city is celebrated for its classical art museums, Nice also harbors an exciting street art culture. Wander through side streets near the port or the Lympia district to see murals that mix Mediterranean colors with modern themes. Local guides sometimes offer walking tours focusing solely on urban art, connecting contemporary creativity to Nice’s artistic heritage.

Photography Spots for Travelers

Nice rewards the observant photographer. Apart from Castle Hill panoramas, look for:

• Pastel alleys of Rue Rossetti during golden hour.
  
• Reflections in the Promenade du Paillon’s fountain mirror.
  
• Contrasts of turquoise sea against ochre façades along Quai des États-Unis.
  

Excursions Around Nice: Expand Your Weekend

Villefranche-sur-Mer

Only ten minutes away by train, Villefranche-sur-Mer is arguably one of the prettiest harbors in the Mediterranean. With its pastel waterfront, narrow backstreets, and gentle beaches, it feels like a quieter cousin to Nice. Lunch by the water at a small family-owned bistro, order grilled sea bass, and you’ll quickly see why artists and writers have long adored this village.

Eze Village

Perched dramatically above the sea, Eze offers medieval stone streets winding up toward the Jardin Exotique. From the gardens, you’ll see panoramic views that sweep across Cap Ferrat and Monaco. Stop by the Fragonard perfumery to learn about traditional French scents, or simply enjoy a glass of wine with a view that’s impossible to forget.

Antibes

If you prefer a slightly larger excursion, head west to Antibes. With its Picasso Museum, sandy beaches, and historic ramparts, Antibes gives a balance of culture and relaxation. The Provençal market in Antibes is particularly inviting on weekends, with local artisans selling lavender sachets, soaps, and handmade jewelry.

Relaxation Options: Slow Travel in Nice

Spa and Wellness

Nice isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s also a city of relaxation. Several spas offer treatments inspired by Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, lavender, and sea salt. After hours of walking cobbled streets, a massage or hammam session can reset your energy.

Gardens and Parks

• Jardin Albert I: Located near Place Masséna, this garden is ideal for a mid-afternoon break.
  
• Cimiez Gardens: Lined with olive trees, these gardens are peaceful and often filled with locals reading or playing pétanque.
  
• Monastère de Cimiez: Beyond the gardens lies the monastery with a rose-filled cloister, perfect for quiet reflection.

Midpoint Travel Hack: Connectivity in France

When traveling on a tight itinerary, every minute matters. That’s why staying connected is more than convenience- it’s part of the experience. Booking train tickets to Antibes on the go, checking market hours in Eze, or following live bus updates requires reliable mobile data. Rather than juggling SIM cards, travelers increasingly rely on eSIM for France, which ensures instant activation and coverage across multiple networks.

With Voye Global, you don’t waste time hunting for local shops or dealing with roaming fees. You simply scan a QR code and stay connected from the moment you land in Nice. It’s one of the smartest hacks for making 48 hours feel smooth and stress-free.

Evening Walks and Entertainment

Promenade des Anglais by Night

Even if you explored it earlier, the promenade transforms at night. Lamps reflect across the sea, couples stroll hand in hand, and street performers gather small crowds. Stop at one of the seaside kiosks for a glass of chilled rosé as you soak in the Côte d’Azur vibe.

Place Masséna Illumination

The main square of Place Masséna comes alive in the evening, with fountains lit in vibrant colors and modern art installations glowing above the tramlines. It’s a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, and often the starting point for evening tours.

Theater and Jazz

If nightlife is part of your weekend, check schedules at the Opéra de Nice or book a table at Shapko Bar, known for jazz jams that last late into the night. Both experiences bring a cultural richness beyond typical clubbing.

Practical Add-Ons for Your Weekend

Getting Around

• Walking remains the best way to experience Nice.
  
• For longer distances, the tram network is efficient and inexpensive.
  
• Trains to Villefranche, Eze, and Antibes leave frequently from Nice-Ville station.
  

Packing Tips

• Bring comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and hilly climbs.
  
• Pack swimwear if you’re planning beach time or a quick dip.
  
• Carry a light scarf- useful for both sun protection and church visits.
  

Safety Notes

Nice is generally safe, but pickpockets operate in crowded markets and trams. Keep valuables secure and avoid leaving belongings unattended at the beach.

A Full-Day Flow: Sunrise to Midnight

Even in just 48 hours, structuring your time hour by hour allows you to see Nice in a way that feels immersive without being rushed.

Sunrise: Promenade Awakening

If you wake up early enough, catch the first light along the Promenade des Anglais. Few experiences compare to seeing the Mediterranean turn shades of pink and gold. Early risers will find joggers and fishermen already in rhythm, but it’s quieter and contemplative compared to daytime bustle.

Breakfast: Café Culture

Pick a terrace café along Avenue Jean Médecin or in Old Town. Order a café crème with a warm croissant. This is the French Riviera’s version of slowing down- breakfast isn’t just fuel, it’s part of the lifestyle.

Mid-Morning: Museum or Market

Depending on preference:

• Art enthusiasts can explore MAMAC or revisit the Chagall Museum.
  
• Food lovers might head again to Libération Market, where Sunday mornings brim with energy.
  

Lunch: Seaside Indulgence

Book a table at a seafront restaurant near the port or Promenade des Anglais. Try bouillabaisse, a Provençal fish stew, paired with a local white wine.

Afternoon: Choose Your Pace

1. Cultural Option: Explore Cimiez’s Roman ruins, monastery, and gardens.
   
2. Relaxation Option: Book sunbeds at Castel Plage or another private beach club for a leisurely swim.
   
3. Adventure Option: Take a short trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer or Eze for coastal views.
   

Evening: Sunset Splendor

Walk toward Mont Boron or enjoy drinks at a rooftop bar with sea views. Sunset is where Nice glows brightest, offering the kind of atmosphere that imprints in memory.

Dinner and Nightlife

Make your last dinner in Nice memorable- perhaps at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a hidden bistro tucked in Vieux Nice. Finish with a walk through Place Masséna and, if energy allows, end the night at a jazz bar.

Beyond the Obvious: More Day-Trip Options

Menton

Known as the “Pearl of France,” Menton sits close to the Italian border. Its pastel-colored old town tumbles toward the sea, and its gardens burst with lemon groves. If your 48 hours stretch into an extra half day, Menton makes a bright and cheerful add-on.

Monaco

Only 25 minutes by train, Monaco offers a stark contrast: glitzy casinos, luxury yachts, and a compact old town with a royal palace. Even a few hours here gives you a taste of the principality’s unique identity.

The Beaches of Nice: What to Expect

Public vs. Private

Nice’s beaches are pebbly, not sandy, which surprises many visitors. Public beaches are free, but for comfort, private beaches such as Opera Plage or Castel Plage provide loungers, umbrellas, and food service.

Swimming Notes

The water is famously turquoise and clear, but pebbles make water shoes a good idea. Summer brings warmer waters, while shoulder seasons offer refreshing dips without the crowds.

Beach Dining

Many beach clubs transform into lively restaurants by evening, serving everything from grilled seafood to Mediterranean tapas with chilled rosé.

Packing and Preparation for 48 Hours

Essentials

• Walking shoes for cobblestones and Castle Hill.
  
• Light layers– even in summer, evenings can be breezy.
  
• Swimwear for beach or day trip dips.
  
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during long walks.
  

Extras for Savvy Travelers

• Compact picnic kit (a foldable blanket is enough). Markets inspire impromptu alfresco meals.
  
• Travel apps for schedules and reservations- supported seamlessly with an eSIM.
  
• Camera or smartphone with backup storage. Nice is endlessly photogenic.
  

Smart Connectivity for Short Trips

Staying connected during a short stay is about efficiency. You want immediate access to maps, language tools, booking confirmations, and real-time transport. This is where Voye Global provides travelers with a hassle-free experience.

About Voye Global – The Connectivity Partner for Every Journey

Voye Global is built for travelers who want to focus on their trip rather than the logistics of staying connected. Whether you’re navigating Old Town’s winding alleys, using translation apps at the markets, or booking a last-minute train to Antibes, Voye ensures you’re always online without interruption.

Why Choose Voye Global?

• Instant Activation: No need to find physical SIM stores.
  
• Seamless Coverage: Reliable connections across France and Europe.
  
• Flexible Plans: Options tailored for weekend trips, longer stays, or multi-country adventures.
  
• Cost-Effective: Avoid roaming charges and hidden fees.
  
• Supports Modern Devices: Compatible with most smartphones and tablets.
  

Benefits for Nice Travelers

• Use maps to navigate Old Town’s maze-like streets.
  
• Check museum opening hours while on the go.
  
• Share your Riviera sunset instantly with family and friends.
  
• Keep backup travel confirmations accessible even offline.
  

With Voye, you’re not just connected- you’re traveling smarter.

FAQs – 48 Hours in Nice

1. Is 48 hours enough for Nice?

Yes, you can enjoy Old Town, the Promenade des Anglais, Castle Hill, and even a short day trip in just two days.

2. What local food should I try?

Don’t miss socca, salade niçoise, pan bagnat, and gelato at Fenocchio.

3. Are Nice beaches free?

Public beaches are free, but private ones like Castel Plage offer loungers and service for a fee.

4. Can I do a quick day trip?

Yes, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Eze are close enough for half-day visits.

5. Is Nice safe for short stays?

Yes, the city is safe for solo travelers and families. Just be mindful of pickpockets in crowded spots.

6. How can I stay connected in France?

With Voye Global’s eSIM, you get instant activation, reliable coverage, and no roaming stress.

7. Why should I choose Voye Global?

It saves time- no local SIM shops, easy QR code setup, and seamless data across France and Europe.