Nice, the capital of the French Riviera
Nice's history
Capital city of the French riviera, Nice is the 5th French city in terms of inhabitants, and has long been a famous summer destination for many tourists visiting France.
Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, it has attracted, historically, many Brits that used to travel to this city to mingle with the European aristocrats, gamble and enjoy the wonderful weather, missing in rainy England. The famous “Promenade des Anglais” is an example of the presence of the British in this city’s history.
Why is nice a must-see in the French riviera?
Thanks to its broad cultural heritage that retraces many aspects of the past influences that have been in the city, Nice is a perfect city to discover by foot or by bike as you will be able to stroll upon some of the most iconic places, such as the “Promenade des Anglais” where you can marvel at the beach and the many iconic palaces of this 7-kilometre-long stretch and “La place Massena” of the French Riviera. Wander in the narrow streets of the "Vieux Nice" where you will come across the incredible Palais Lascaris, built the first part of the 17th century. In this neighbourhood, you will also find the likes of the “Cathédrale Sainte Reparate de Nice” and the “Gesù church”.
Nice is also home to some of the most iconic French dishes: the famous “salade niçoise” and the “pan bagnat” are two examples of the specialities you must try before leaving the French Riviera.
Around Nice
Many iconic and famous villages around Nice are must-sees: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Eze, Menton, Monaco and many more. The area is that has been under Italian influence is famous for its hilltop and colourful cities, very similar to Italian cities that you can see when you cross the border.
The back country is made of many high summits, with some reaching over 3000metres, is one the most beautiful in the country. With the natural parks of the Mercantour and the Verdon, with its beautiful Gorges du Verdon, the most beautiful river gorge in Europe.
The French Riviera is a exceptionnal destination to enjoy a walking tour or even a cycling tour, along the sea or higher up in the Alps!
Our trips on the French Riviera
- Our walking trips on the french Riviera
