Nice, the fifth-largest city in France, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Maritime Alps, lies at the heart of the French Riviera, the country’s most popular tourist region. If you’re planning a holiday in Nice and wondering what to see, check out our guide. We’ll suggest top attractions to add to your itinerary and advise on finding a local guide to take you to all the interesting places and tell the story of the city. Let’s start!

Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Nice

What to See in Nice?

Nice offers something for everyone – no matter if you’re a beach lover or a history enthusiast. Here are the attractions you should definitely see:

Promenade des Anglais

Stretching along the coastline, the 7-kilometre long Promenade des Anglais is also one of the main streets of the city. This social and entertainment hub is a popular meeting spot for both locals and tourists. It was financially supported by wealthy English visitors in the past, which is reflected in its name. The Promenade features Belle Époque architectural gems like the Hotel Negresco and Villa Masséna, the latter now housing a museum with artefacts including Napoleon’s death mask.

Lascaris Palace

Named after the Lascaris-Vintimille family who once lived there, this palace is now owned by the city and houses many treasures. It is particularly recommended for music lovers as it hosts one of France’s largest collections of musical instruments, with about 500 items. In addition to musical instruments, the palace boasts antique Louis XV-style furniture, ornamental details, and intricate reliefs.

Old Town (Vieux Nice)

A tour of Nice isn’t complete without a visit to Vieux Nice, the Old Town. Strolling through its cobbled streets with beautiful pastel-coloured buildings, you can explore local shops, cafes, and artisan galleries. Key sights in the Old Town include the Baroque Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, Rue Droite which was the main artery in mediaeval Nice, the historic Maison Auer – confectionery operational since 1820, the Jesuit Church Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur de Nice, the Palace of the Prefecture, and the Opera House.

Massena Square and Promenade du Paillon

The city’s main square, Place Massena, is intersected by the river-covered Promenade du Paillon, a perfect spot for relaxation that impresses with the Dragon Fountain and over a thousand plant species. Place Massena hosts the Fountain of the Sun with the statue of Apollo and is one of the city’s most photographed sites. Nearby, on Esplanade Georges Pompidou, make sure you see the Neuf Lignes Obliques, a steel sculpture commissioned for the 150th anniversary of Nice’s annexation to France.

Castle Hill

Once the site of a castle, which was demolished in the early 18th century by order of Louis XIV, the area is now a park with a man-made waterfall from the late 19th century, offering excellent city views. Accessible by lift or stairs from the Promenade des Anglais, it’s a must-visit for a beautiful panorama of Nice.

Finding a Good Guide in Nice

If you want to explore Nice with a guide, consider joining a free walking tour. These tours, ideal for couples, families, and small groups, let you see the city from a local’s perspective. Unlike traditional guided tours, you don’t pay upfront for a free walking tour; you decide what to pay based on your appreciation of the guide’s work after the tour. What’s more, you determine the amount you will pay for your guide’s work, expertise and commitment. You can go on a free tour of Nice together with Walkative! – a brand that brings together local guides all over Europe. The tour takes place in English and only requires you to book a place in advance on the organiser’s website.

Why join a Free Walking Tour in Nice with Walkative?

• It’s led by a local guide, providing an insider tour experience.

• It offers more than just a history lesson—it’s a memorable adventure through the city’s most interesting spots.

• You can ask questions and actively participate.

• After the tour, you evaluate the service and pay what you feel is appropriate.
• You can discover Nice from a unique perspective not covered in guidebooks.

Check out the current free walking tours in Nice with Walkative!, pick a date, and reserve a spot without an upfront fee! Your local guide will not only show you the famous spots but also recommend great places for meals.