Things To Do in Nice, France: A Day in Nice

Your trip is booked, your house rental in Provence is booked—now what? Our travel specialists at Handsome Properties International have created a perfect itinerary for a day trip to one of the most charming cities on the French Riviera: Nice, France

Nice is a seaside city is drenched in history and romance. From the narrow, winding “chemins” to the open-air flower markets, you are sure to fall under the enchanting spell of Nice. Dating all the way back to 350 BC, Nice is the fifth most populous city in France and the capital of the Alpes Maritime region. Greek influences from the first settlers can be identified in the architecture and culture of the port city. Today, Nice offers a bustling tourism industry with beautiful pebbled beaches, open air markets, and wonderful cuisine.

Promenade des Anglais

Start your day walking down this five mile stretch of sidewalk along the French Riviera coast. In the 18^th Century, English tourists took a shine to the sunny walkway and proposed a plan to have the sidewalk built into a nice promenade for them to enjoy. The people of Nice were happy to oblige and thus named the strip, the Promenade des Anglais (English Walkway).

Vieux Ville

Next, stroll through the “old city” the original downtown of Nice before the 19^th century. The Vieux Ville consists of narrow, winding streets that house cafes and trinket shops selling the best lavender soaps and olive oils you’ve ever encountered. Because of it’s close proximity to Italy, you can also find wonderful handmade leather goods such as bags and shoes.

Dine at Papayou

Stop for lunch at Papayou, offering fabulous outdoor seating and located on 35 rue de la Prefecture in vieux Nice. Papayou specializes in traditional niçois dishes and some Moroccan dishes such as chicken with coconut milk and lemon seasoning. For more information visit their website.

The Cours Saleya (Open Air Flower Market)

The Cours Saleya is one of the most popular attractions in Nice because it embodies the market culture of France. For hundreds of years flower vendors have gathered on the Cours Saleya to sell their fresh cut lavender and wildflowers and the excitement of the hustle and bustle is contagious.

Renting a house in Provence is the perfect way to experience the South of France like a true local! For more information on our available rentals and sales in Provence, contact us online for more info.