Nice, Cote d’Azur, south of France

Description: The 5th largest city in France, Nice is a great place to explore with a lovely pedestrianised old town and some of France’s best heritage on display including a fine opera house, art museums displaying Monet, Degas, Renoir and Rodin collections.  A walk through the flower markets makes for some great photo opportunities and the architecture just back from the sea front is gorgeous.

You need to be aware that some of the beaches are privately run and charge for use. The main stretch in front of the front is free, but understandably gets busy in high season (July / August).  The beach is pebbly and shelves quite steeply, not great for young children / toddlers, but it’s lovely swimming for the oldies!

Location: 150km east of Marseille.

General Info: Office de Tourisme website.

Our recommendations:  For art lovers take a trip to the nearby Cagnes-Sur-Mer to see Renoir’s villa.  Look out for dates of the many carnivals and festivals on the above website.

For the children: Check out the Train des Pignes running between Nice and Digne les Bain.  There is an occasional steam service in high season.  There is a lovely stopover at  Entrevaux.

 

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to the Cote d’Azur in the South of France: