Nice: The Ultimate 7 Day Guide to the French Riviera

Nice is more than just a stop along the French Riviera-  it’s a city that manages to be both cosmopolitan and intimate, vibrant yet relaxed. Here, Belle Époque façades stand proudly beside bustling markets, and the turquoise sea stretches endlessly along the famous Promenade des Anglais. Whether you’re an art lover, a beachgoer, a foodie, or simply a traveler looking for that perfect Mediterranean pace, Nice has a way of delivering an unforgettable week.

This guide is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their seven-day trip. From sunrise walks on the waterfront to leisurely dinners under the glow of string lights, you’ll find an itinerary that balances iconic sights with local discoveries. And because travel today is as much about staying connected as it is about exploring, we’ll also touch on smart ways to keep your phone-  and your plans-  running smoothly with Voye Global’s eSIM options.

Day 1 – First Impressions: Promenade des Anglais & Old Town Charm

Morning – The Riviera Welcome

After checking into your accommodation, start your day with the city’s most iconic feature: the Promenade des Anglais. This sweeping seafront boulevard runs for nearly 4 miles (7 km) along the Mediterranean, flanked by palm trees and pastel-hued buildings. The sea here is an impossible shade of blue, a view that will stay etched in your memory long after you leave.
You’ll see locals jogging, couples cycling side-by-side, and photographers capturing the light as it dances on the water. If you want to linger, stop at a beachfront café for a café crème and a croissant, watching the morning unfold.

Midday – Into the Heart of Vieux Nice

From the Promenade, it’s just a short walk into Vieux Nice–  the Old Town-  a maze of narrow streets where every corner seems to reveal something new. The architecture here leans into warm ochre tones, with wooden shutters and laundry lines that add to the charm.

Make your way to the Cours Saleya Market, a sensory feast that operates daily except Mondays. The flower market fills the air with lavender and rose scents, while stalls sell everything from freshly baked fougasse bread to jars of Provençal honey. Take your time-  this is the place to pick up picnic supplies for later.

Afternoon – Cathedral and Gelato

Wander toward Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate), an ornate Baroque building tucked into Place Rossetti. The square outside is perfect for people-watching, especially if you grab a scoop from Fenocchio, a gelateria famous for unique flavors like thyme, olive, and rose.

Evening – Dinner with a View

For your first dinner in Nice, choose a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the port or the Promenade. Order socca, a chickpea pancake baked until crisp and served warm, often with a sprinkle of pepper. Pair it with a glass of local rosé wine.

By night, the Promenade transforms into a softer, quieter version of itself. The streetlights shimmer against the sea, and the rhythm of the waves provides a soundtrack to your walk back.

Travel Tip: Your first day is all about adjusting to the city’s pace. Don’t try to do too much-  instead, soak up the ambiance and get familiar with the layout. Having mobile data ready from the moment you arrive lets you navigate without stress, whether you’re finding your hotel or checking restaurant reviews on the go.

Day 2 – Culture, Panoramas & Portside Dining

Morning – Artistic Inspirations

Start with a visit to the Marc Chagall National Museum or the Musée Matisse–  both offer insight into artists who found endless inspiration in the Côte d’Azur’s light.

• Marc Chagall Museum: Focuses on his biblical works and vibrant stained-glass windows.
  
• Musée Matisse: Set in a 17th-century villa in Cimiez, surrounded by olive groves.

Both museums are small enough to explore in under two hours, leaving plenty of time for other activities.

Late Morning – Cimiez Monastery & Gardens

If you visit Matisse’s museum, take a short walk to the Monastery of Cimiez. The attached gardens are a peaceful escape with panoramic views over Nice. This is a quieter part of the city, ideal for taking a breath.

Afternoon – Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Next, make your way to Castle Hill, one of Nice’s most famous viewpoints. Despite the name, there’s no castle here anymore-  it’s more of a landscaped park with cascading waterfalls,  shaded paths, and terraces that overlook the city.

You can take the lift from the Promenade if you prefer to skip the climb, but walking up gives you the chance to pause at different lookout points. From the top, you’ll see the curve of the Baie des Anges, the harbor, and the patchwork of terracotta rooftops that define the city.

Evening – Port Lympia

As the sun dips lower, head toward Port Lympia. This is the working harbor where fishing boats sit alongside sleek yachts. The pastel buildings that line the quays glow golden in the evening light.

Choose a seafood restaurant here for dinner-  dishes like grilled sea bass or bouillabaisse are specialties. Dining by the port lets you enjoy the gentle clinking of boat riggings and the smell of salt in the air, an authentic Riviera experience.

Additional Tips for Your First Two Days in Nice

1. Take Your Time on the Promenade

The beauty of Nice isn’t just in its landmarks but in the moments between them. A slow walk along the Promenade at different times of day-  sunrise, midday, and evening-  will show you how the city changes with the light.

2. Sample Local Specialties Early On
Don’t wait until the end of your trip to try Niçoise classics. Socca, salade niçoise, pan bagnat (a stuffed bread roll), and pissaladière (onion tart) are all worth tasting in your first days so you can revisit your favorites later.

3. Consider a Local Guide
A short walking tour of Old Town can add depth to what you see-  stories of how Nice shifted between Italian and French rule, how certain streets got their names, and where to find the best hidden courtyards.

4. Stay Connected for Spontaneous Plans
A good data connection means you can book last-minute museum tickets, check live bus schedules, or quickly translate a menu. With a Voye Global eSIM plan, you can do this without wasting time hunting for a SIM store.

Day 3 – The Hilltop Magic of Èze

Morning – Escape to the Medieval Heights

Just a short bus ride from Nice, Èze is a village that feels suspended between the sky and the sea. Perched high on a cliff, it offers winding cobblestone lanes, tiny artisan boutiques, and lush Mediterranean gardens.
Start your visit at the Exotic Garden of Èze (Jardin Exotique), which crowns the very top of the village. Here, succulents, cacti, and tropical flowers frame views so wide they seem unreal. On a clear day, you can see as far as Saint-Tropez.

Late Morning – Perfume & Local Craft

From the garden, wander down to the Fragonard Perfume Factory. Free guided tours walk you through the perfume-making process-  from distilling raw materials to bottling the final product. The gift shop is an excellent place for unique souvenirs that fit neatly into your luggage. If you have time before lunch, explore the small galleries scattered through the village. Many sell locally made jewelry, ceramics, and paintings inspired by the Côte d’Azur.

Afternoon – The Nietzsche Path

For the adventurous, the Nietzsche Path offers a 1.6-mile downhill hike from Èze to the seaside at Èze-sur-Mer. The route is steep and rocky, but the reward is panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the occasional scent of wild herbs drifting on the breeze. Once at the bottom, you can relax on the pebbled beach before catching a train or bus back to Nice.

Evening – Rooftop Sundowners

Back in Nice, head to a rooftop bar for a drink with a view. Hotels like Le Méridien or the Radisson Blu have terraces that overlook the sea, where the sunset paints the horizon in pink and gold. For dinner, choose a small bistro in Old Town and opt for something light-  perhaps grilled sardines with a side of ratatouille.

Local Tip: Bus 82 or 112 from Nice to Èze Village offers scenic views along the way, so grab a window seat.

Day 4 – Culinary Journeys & Coastal Leisure

Morning – Hands-On Cooking Class

One of the most rewarding ways to connect with Nice’s culture is through its food. Book a morning Niçoise cooking class where you’ll learn how to prepare dishes like salade niçoise, pan bagnat, and pissaladière. Many classes start with a quick trip to Cours Saleya Market to select fresh ingredients-  a chance to meet local farmers and fishmongers.

Late Morning – Musée Masséna

After your culinary adventure, make your way to the Musée Masséna. This Belle Époque villa houses exhibits on Nice’s history, from Napoleon’s era to the city’s role in the Belle Époque boom. The building itself is as much a work of art as the displays inside, with ornate ceilings and landscaped gardens.

Afternoon – Beach Time at Blue Beach

In the afternoon, reward yourself with downtime at Blue Beach, one of the city’s most popular private beach clubs. For a small fee, you can rent a sun lounger, order drinks to your seat, and take dips in the clear, calm water. The service is leisurely, the music understated, and the crowd a mix of locals and travelers.

Connectivity Tip – Staying Online Without the Hassle

Whether you’re sharing photos from your cooking class or checking train schedules for tomorrow’s day trip, having an eSIM for France already installed before your trip means no queueing at SIM shops or swapping cards in your phone. With providers like Voye Global, you can activate service instantly and enjoy multi-network coverage, keeping your travel plans as smooth as the Riviera coastline.

Evening – Music, Markets & Nightlife

As the sun sets, head back into Vieux Nice to browse evening market stalls, where artisans sell jewelry, paintings, and lavender products. In summer, the city often hosts open-air concerts in public squares. If you’re in the mood for nightlife, the bars along Rue de la Préfecture offer everything from wine tastings to live jazz.

Extra Tips for Days 3 & 4

1. Pack for Layers
Even in summer, the evening breeze from the sea can be cool. Bring a light jacket for rooftop drinks or night markets.

2. Book Cooking Classes Early
These experiences are popular and often sell out, especially in peak season. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred date and time.

3. Use Public Transport Efficiently
Buses and trains are inexpensive and frequent along the Riviera. Keep an app handy for real-time schedules-  and remember, they can run late in peak tourist season.

4. Make Room for Spontaneity
While an itinerary keeps you on track, Nice rewards those who wander. An unplanned stop at a café, a detour through a side street, or a quick dip at an uncrowded beach can be the day’s highlight.

Day 5 – Monaco’s Glamour in a Day

Morning – Royal History and Scenic Views

Start your day with an early train from Nice to Monaco, just 30 minutes away. The journey itself is a treat-  the train hugs the coastline, revealing glimpses of hidden beaches and cliffside villas. Once you arrive, make your way to the Prince’s Palace in Monaco-Ville (also called “The Rock”). This historic building has been the official residence of the Grimaldi family since the 13th century. Inside, lavish state rooms display ornate furniture, art, and frescoed ceilings. Time your visit to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11:55 AM, a tradition that draws both tourists and locals.

Late Morning – Yachts and Oceanography

Head down to Port Hercules, where gleaming superyachts moor alongside colorful fishing boats. The contrast is striking, and it’s easy to spend time here just people-watching or enjoying a coffee at a marina café.

Next, visit the Oceanographic Museum, a landmark perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I, the museum is both a marine research center and an aquarium. From intricate coral reefs to massive shark tanks, the exhibits capture the region’s deep relationship with the sea.

Afternoon – Casino and Gardens

After lunch-  whether in Monaco or back in Nice-  make time for the Casino de Monte-Carlo, a Belle Époque masterpiece of marble, gold, and chandeliers. Even if you’re not playing, the building’s grandeur is worth the trip. Just remember to check dress codes and ID requirements. Nearby, stroll through the Casino Gardens, where manicured lawns and fountains offer a serene counterpoint to the gaming halls.

Evening – Dinner with a Riviera Backdrop

If you stay for dinner, choose a restaurant with a terrace that overlooks the harbor, offering a view of the city lights reflecting on the water. Alternatively, catch the train back to Nice in time for a late dinner at a portside bistro, ending the day with the scent of salt air and the hum of the city at night.

Day 6 – Antibes’ Art and Coastline

Morning – Picasso and the Ramparts

The charming town of Antibes lies just 30 minutes from Nice by train. Begin at the Picasso Museum, housed in the medieval Château Grimaldi. Picasso lived and worked here in 1946, leaving behind paintings, ceramics, and sketches that now form the heart of the collection. The museum’s terrace offers a sweeping view over the Mediterranean, framed by the town’s ancient stone walls.

Late Morning – Old Town and Market

From the museum, wander into Antibes’ Old Town. The Marché Provençal (Provençal Market) is a feast for the senses, brimming with cheeses, olives, cured meats, and fresh produce. Pick up picnic supplies for later or enjoy a snack from one of the local vendors.

Afternoon – Sandy Beaches and Seaside Walks

Unlike Nice’s pebbled shores, Antibes boasts soft sandy beaches. Plage de la Salis is a favorite, offering calm waters perfect for swimming. After a swim or a nap in the sun, take a walk along the ramparts, where the sea breeze mingles with the scent of pine trees. Artists often set up easels here, painting the same views that inspired masters like Picasso and Monet.

Evening – Sunset Return

Have an early dinner at a waterfront restaurant, sampling grilled fish or a seafood platter. Catch the train back to Nice as the sun sets-  the ride offers postcard-worthy views that feel like a fitting close to the day.

Day 7 – A Market Farewell and Final Beach Hours

Morning – Souvenir Shopping at Cours Saleya

Dedicate your final morning in Nice to a last stroll through Cours Saleya Market. Vendors sell fragrant lavender sachets, artisanal soaps, bottles of olive oil, and handmade ceramics. It’s the perfect place to pick up gifts that reflect the flavors and colors of the Riviera. If you have time, grab a coffee and a warm croissant from a nearby café and savor your final morning in the city.

Late Morning – Final Wanderings

Use your last hours to revisit a favorite spot from earlier in the week-  maybe the quiet lanes of Old Town, a particular beach café, or the panoramic views from Castle Hill. Without the pressure of sightseeing, you can simply enjoy being in Nice.

Afternoon – One Last Dip

End your trip with a few hours by the sea. Whether you choose a public beach along the Promenade or a private beach club, take in the deep blue horizon one last time. A swim in the Mediterranean on your final day makes for a memorable farewell.

Evening – A Toast to the Riviera

For your last dinner, pick a restaurant that offers a view of the sea or the softly lit streets of Old Town. Raise a glass of rosé to the week you’ve spent-  from the medieval heights of Èze to the luxury of Monaco and the sandy shores of Antibes.

Extra Tips for Days 5, 6 & 7

1. Start Early
Leaving Nice in the morning gives you more time in Monaco and Antibes before crowds arrive.

2. Visit Markets First Thing
Cours Saleya and Antibes’ market are at their best before 10 AM.

3. Pack Light for the Day
Carry only essentials so you can move easily between sights, markets, and beaches.

4. Bring a Light Jacket
Even summer evenings by the water can be breezy.

Why Voye Global Is the Perfect Travel Partner in France?

When traveling along the French Riviera, connectivity is more than convenience-  it’s a key to unlocking smooth, stress-free experiences. Voye Global offers eSIM solutions that activate instantly, letting you step off the plane and start exploring without the delay of finding a local SIM card.

With multi-network coverage, you’ll have a strong signal whether you’re streaming the view from Castle Hill, booking a last-minute cooking class in Nice, or navigating the winding streets of Antibes. Transparent pricing means no surprise roaming bills when you return home. And because it’s an eSIM, you’re choosing a sustainable option that avoids the plastic waste of physical SIM cards.

Benefits of Choosing Voye Global

• Instant Activation – Connect in minutes, right from your phone.
  
• Multi-Network Access – Always switch to the strongest available signal.
  
• Transparent Pricing – No hidden charges or roaming surprises.
  
• Flexible Plans – Choose packages suited to your trip length.
  
• Eco-Friendly – No physical SIM card waste.

FAQs – Planning Your Trip to Nice

1. What’s the best time to visit Nice?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather and atmosphere.

2. Can I visit the Riviera without renting a car?
Yes, public transport connects Nice to Èze, Monaco, and Antibes easily.

3. Is Nice safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s safe and welcoming, with well-lit streets and a relaxed vibe.

4. Are Nice’s beaches sandy?
Most are pebbly; head to Antibes for sandy stretches.

5. What local foods should I try?
Socca, salade niçoise, pan bagnat, and pissaladière are must-tries.

6. How many days should I stay in Nice?
Seven days allow time for the city and several day trips.