Here's a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Nice, France, whether you have 3 days or 5 days to explore.
3-Day Itinerary in Nice
Day 1: Old Town & Seaside Stroll
Morning: Start your day by exploring Vieux Nice (Old Town). Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, and visit Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate. Explore the Cours Saleya Market, a vibrant market full of flowers, fresh produce, and local delicacies.
Afternoon: Take a relaxing walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, a beautiful 7 km stretch along the Mediterranean coast, perfect for enjoying the sea views.
Evening: Head up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views of Nice, especially at sunset. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Day 2: Art, Culture & Beach Time
Morning: Visit the Musée Matisse, where you can enjoy a large collection of works by Henri Matisse, showcasing the artist's influence on modern art.
Afternoon: After the museum, enjoy some beach time at one of Nice’s public beaches along the Promenade des Anglais.
Evening: For dinner, try local dishes such as pan bagnat (a Niçoise sandwich) or socca (a chickpea flour pancake), which are iconic in Nice.
Day 3: Day Trip to Èze & Villefranche-sur-Mer
Morning: Take a short bus or train ride to the medieval hilltop village of Èze. Visit the Exotic Garden and enjoy breathtaking views of the French Riviera.
Afternoon: Continue your day by visiting the charming town of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Stroll through its quaint streets, explore the harbor, and relax at the beach.
Evening: Head back to Nice for dinner or enjoy the nightlife in one of the many bars or restaurants.
5-Day Itinerary in Nice
Day 1–3: Follow the 3-day Itinerary Above
Day 4: Antibes & Juan-les-Pins
Morning: Take a train to Antibes. Visit the Picasso Museum located in the Château Grimaldi, and explore the old town. Antibes is known for its historic charm and vibrant art scene.
Afternoon: After exploring Antibes, head to Juan-les-Pins, a beach resort town known for its sandy beaches, lively atmosphere, and beautiful coastline.
Evening: Have dinner at a beachside restaurant in Juan-les-Pins, where you can enjoy seafood with a view of the Mediterranean.
Day 5: Saint-Paul-de-Vence & Grasse
Morning: Take a trip to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a medieval hilltop village known for its art galleries and narrow streets. It’s a peaceful town with amazing views and a rich artistic history.
Afternoon: Continue your journey to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world. Visit one of the local perfume factories and learn about the history and craft of perfume-making.
Evening: Return to Nice for your last evening, where you can enjoy a final meal in one of the city’s charming restaurants.
This itinerary offers a mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation, giving you a comprehensive experience of Nice and the surrounding areas.
