Nice

Nice is a city located in the southern coast of France. It is a well-known destination in the French Riviera. Apart from its strip of white sand and pebble beaches, the city has other attractions that visitors can explore.

Sights & Activities

A lot of hotels and restaurants have been established along the beaches of this city. As a result, it is convenient for any visitor to enjoy the ocean breeze and calm waters of the bay. Swimming, snorkeling, and sailing are popular activities done in the area. Many restaurants along the waterfront offer outdoor dining so visitors can make the most out of their holidays. Afterwards, strolling along the Promenade des Anglais would provide a refreshing way to end the day.

Another interesting attraction in Nice is the Palais Massena, a 19th century structure located along Rue de France. This building houses a museum that showcases several artworks, including valuable impressionist paintings. It also displays collections of ceramics.

Nice also boasts of other historic structures and buildings. Along the Promenade des Anglais is the Palais de la Mediterranee, a building that was constructed in the early part of the 20th century and is of Art Deco style. Though only the façade remains of the original structure, it still provides a striking sight along the waterfront. The Chamber of Commerce building along Avenue Baquis also provides another interesting sight, with its combination of French and Italian architectural styles. The Nice Cathedral, on the other hand, is a fine example of Baroque churches that was constructed in the 17th century.

Visitors can also head out to the Colline du Chateau or Castle Hill, where spectacular views of the city and of the Mediterranean coastline can be had. At the base of the chateau is the Monument des Mortes, the city’s own war memorial.

There are also a number of museums located in Nice, apart from Musée Massena. The Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain showcases works of modernistic artists. Located near the museum is the huge sculpture called La Tête au Carré. Works of impressionist and post-impressionist painters can be viewed at the Musée des Beaux Arts or the Fine Arts Museum. There are also several museums that specialize on the works of a particular artist, such as the Musée Matisse, the Musée Chagall, and the Musée Picasso.

Visitors shouldn’t leave Nice without taking the time to explore the Arènes et jardins de Cimiez, located along Avenue du Monastère de Cimiez. Among the highlights of this charming outdoor attraction is an olive grove, Roman amphitheaters that harkens back to the ancient settlement of the city, and a monastery garden. The garden is also the venue of the Nice Jazz Festival that is held annually. There is also a small archaeological museum located in the area.

Weather

Nice enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm to hot summer and mild winters, with occasional rainfall. August is the hottest month, though most visitors still flock to the city during summertime, as the hot temperature is compensated with the warm cooling breeze from the ocean. Spring in Nice has been described as windy, while autumn would be considered warm by those used to a much colder climate.