Itineraries for Your Trip to Nice
2 Days in Nice for First Timers
Although I spent much of my early 20s living in Paris, Nice felt somewhat like a different country to me the first time I visited, in a good way. Not only does Nice have its own culinary traditions (and accent), but it also has great weather and distinct architecture from what's found up north. While it’s easy to spend a week or longer enjoying what this southern city has to offer, Nice is compact enough to explore in just one weekend. Here’s how I’d suggest spending two days in Nice if you’re a first-time visitor.
If you only have time for one thing, make it Nice’s Old Town.
Nice weather can cool down, so keep a sweater handy if you head out in the evening.
The best way to get familiar with the lay of the land in Nice is by exploring on foot. On your first morning, join a walking tour that covers key areas, such as the city’s pretty Old Town as well as the Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill.
After your walking tour, grab lunch before heading down to the port for a boat trip onto the Mediterranean. Do a bit of snorkeling, check out the Mala Cave, or pay a visit to the town of Villefranche-sur-Mer—or do all of the above, depending on what sort of boat tour you choose.
This evening, join a perfume workshop at the Molinard Perfumery in Nice and learn all about this major industry in the south of France. Discover how perfumes are designed and blended, and make a small batch of custom fragrance to take home with you. You’ll be ready to hit the town tonight wearing your own signature scent.
On your second day, it’s time to see more of the sunny Mediterranean coastline. Consider renting a bike to explore independently so that you can cover more ground in less time. Joining an e-bike tour is another great option to avoid tiring yourself out, and going with a guide can help you get a deeper understanding of the French Riviera.
Head back to Nice in the afternoon for lunch—a food tour is a great alternative. Enjoy plenty of tastings, such as crêpes and macarons, and fill up on all sorts of delicious dishes while you learn about the city, and its culinary history, from your tour leader.
Spend your final evening in Nice sampling French wines thanks to an immersive wine tasting experience. Learn about the differences between a range of red, white, and sparkling wines from your instructor-guide. After your experience, head to dinner at a local restaurant equipped with all the knowledge you’ll need to select a great bottle.
