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Published on March 5th, 2025 by Ersilia

Have you ever stood on the Promenade des Anglais, with that impossibly blue Mediterranean stretching before you, and wondered what secrets Nice holds beyond the tourist crowds? I certainly did during my first visit! During this first visit I only had one day to visit Nice, so this article is based step-by-step on my personal experience.

Hey there! I’m Ersilia, an architect originally from Transylvania, Romania. My love affair with France began in 2014 during my Erasmus exchange, when what was supposed to be a one-year academic adventure completely changed the trajectory of my life. Four years later, I took the leap and moved to France “for good” to be with the man who would become my husband.

Now in my thirties, we spend our weekends exploring every hidden corner of this beautiful country. While I appreciate those iconic landmarks that grace every postcard, my true passion lies in discovering the authentic soul of French cities and towns – those special places where locals gather that most tourists walk right past.

If you’re planning a “one day in Nice itinerary,” you’re in the right place! I’ve crafted the perfect walking route that takes you through the heart and soul of this fascinating city in just one day. Starting at the colorful Port Lympia and ending with a breathtaking sunset from Castle Hill, this itinerary balances must-see attractions with hidden gems that most visitors miss completely.

Nice is a great city to base in the French Riviera, but if you choose to stay somewhere else (like I did, the first time I visited), then you should make sure to have at least one day in Nice !

Before we begin, let me share a game-changing tip: download the Navaway app for audio guides and carefully crafted itineraries. This is not sponsored by I really love their way of showing french cities.

Here is the itinerary that I advice. You can save this Google Maps for your day in Nice and just follow along.

Also, you can click on each image, it will take you to the exact Google maps location. You can have the entire photo map itinerary with top things to see and do in Nice, saved on your phone !

Morning: Port Lympia to the Old Town Treasures

Port Lympia: Nice’s Hidden Harbor

Did you know that almost every visitor to Nice starts their day at the famous Cours Saleya market? While it’s undeniably charming, I’m going to let you in on a local secret for your one day in Nice itinerary – begin your Nice walking tour somewhere completely different!

Start your Port to Castle Hill Nice walk at Port Lympia, a hidden gem that most tourists completely miss! The moment I discovered this colorful harbor tucked away on the eastern edge of Nice, I felt like I’d stumbled upon a miniature version of the city itself. The brightly painted buildings in shades of ochre, terracotta and yellow create the perfect backdrop for the boats gently bobbing in the harbor. There’s something wonderfully cozy about this small bay – it has all the Mediterranean view Nice is famous for but in a more intimate setting that feels worlds away from the tourist crowds.

I love grabbing a morning coffee at one of the small cafés overlooking the water. Watching the fishermen prepare their boats while the early light catches the colorful facades is pure magic! Take your time here – this is authentic Nice at its best, and the perfect starting point for your Nice pedestrian itinerary.

Place Garibaldi: Architectural Illusions

From Port Lympia, wind your way up toward Place Garibaldi, one of Nice’s most beautiful squares. The first time I walked into this wide-open plaza, I was completely captivated by the uniform yellow facades surrounding it. Here’s a fascinating architectural detail that my architect’s eye couldn’t miss – look closely at those perfect rows of windows and you’ll notice something surprising!

Many are actually trompe l’oeil illusions, carefully painted to give the impression of continuous windows. This is Nice Italian architecture at its finest! I spent nearly twenty minutes here just admiring this clever architectural trick.

The stately water fountain in the center creates the perfect focal point for this grand square.

Just after Place Garibaldi (in Pl. Saint-François), there was a French advertisement displayed that made me smile – “Si Juliette n’est pas au balcon, elle est au théâtre” (If Juliet isn’t on her balcony, she’s at the theater). Something about this witty cultural reference felt quintessentially French and perfectly representative of Nice France cultural heritage!

Walking arond the streets of the Old Town: Italian Heritage

From Place Garibaldi, continue toward Vieux Nice (the Old Town). This is where the Nice Italy connection history becomes impossible to miss. The narrow winding streets, called “carruggi” (a Genoese word), instantly transport you to medieval Italy rather than France. The transition from the ordered elegance of Place Garibaldi to these atmospheric alleyways always gives me a little thrill – it’s like walking through a time portal!

Make sure to seek out Rue Jules Gilly Nice history as you explore. This charming street perfectly captures Nice’s Italian roots with its colorful buildings and boutique shops. I stumbled across a little spice shop here during my first visit and bought some “épices chaï” (chai spices) that I still drink every weekend as a sweet reminder of my time in Nice. While chai might not be traditionally French, you’ll definitely find something here that speaks to you – perhaps traditional Niçois olive oils or local honey.

Palais Lascaris: Musical Heritage

Now for one of Nice Old Town hidden gems that too many visitors miss – Palais Lascaris Nice museum. Hidden in the heart of the old town, this baroque palace completely stole my heart! The entrance hall alone is worth the visit, with its stunning pink marbled staircase that reminded me of Villa Ephrussi in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. What makes this museum special is its incredible collection of antique musical instruments. Seeing the evolution of pianos and violins through the centuries gave me a whole new appreciation for musical history. The best part? You can easily explore the whole place in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect stop on a busy Vieux Nice exploration guide.

Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate and Place Rossetti: A Dramatic Reveal

As you wind through the labyrinthine streets, make your way to Rue Rossetti. I have a special way I love to approach the cathedral – walking down this narrow street creates the most dramatic reveal! As you move forward, the baroque façade of Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate gradually appears between the close-set buildings, framed perfectly by the tight walls of the alleyway. That first glimpse always takes my breath away. Check the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate visiting hours before you go, though typically it’s open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

As you wind through the labyrinthine streets, make your way to Rue Rossetti. I have a special way I love to approach the cathedral – walking down this narrow street creates the most dramatic reveal! As you move forward, the baroque façade of Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate gradually appears between the close-set buildings, framed perfectly by the tight walls of the alleyway. That first glimpse always takes my breath away. Check the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate visiting hours before you go, though typically it’s open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

When you finally emerge into Place Rossetti in front of the cathedral, you’ll understand why I say this square feels more like Rome than France! The open piazza surrounded by pastel buildings with the ornate cathedral as its centerpiece creates a distinctly Italian atmosphere. There are several charming cafés with outdoor terraces here – perfect for sampling a Pissaladière Nice specialty for a light lunch.

But whatever you do, don’t fill up completely! Save room for dessert at our next stop as we continue through the delightful streets of Nice’s Old Town. Place Rossetti is the perfect spot to rest and soak in the lively atmosphere of this beautiful square before continuing your Nice local secrets adventure!

Next stop : Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur de Nice

You absolutely must approach from Place du Jésus to experience the most dramatic view, where the narrow street frames the church perfectly and creates this incredible reveal that made me stop in my tracks.

The moment I turned the corner from Place du Jésus, my breath caught in my throat – there stood Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur in all its glory!

This church absolutely embodies Nice’s Italian heritage with its stunning ochre-yellow façade that positively glows in the sunlight.

The ornate baroque details and the elegant bell tower rising above the surrounding buildings transported me straight to Italy, despite being firmly on French soil! I spent nearly twenty minutes just admiring the intricate architectural elements and that distinctive warm yellow color that seems to capture the essence of Nice’s unique cultural blend. Even if you’re not typically a church-visitor during your travels, this architectural gem is absolutely worth a quick detour.

Midday: Cultural Gems and Hidden Corners

Place du Palais de Justice : Architectural Marvel

As your morning exploration winds down, make your way to the impressive Palais de Justice.

With only one day in Nice, I recommend admiring this architectural gem from the outside rather than spending precious time indoors. I was particularly captivated by its exterior details – the clean lines and modern aesthetic provide an interesting contrast to the baroque and Italian-influenced buildings you’ve been exploring all morning.

Take a moment to appreciate this different side of Nice’s architectural identity before moving on.

Oui, Jelato: Sweet Italian Treats

Now it’s time for that sweet break I promised! Head to “Oui, Jelato” near the Palais de Justice for what I consider some of the best gelato outside Italy itself. Their creamy, authentic flavors are the perfect mid-day treat as you continue exploring. I always go for their pistachio, but the seasonal fruit flavors are equally divine! This little gelato shop is a perfect example of how Nice’s Italian heritage continues to influence its culinary scene.

Place Masséna: Nice’s Living Room

Wander next through the magnificent Place Masséna, often considered Nice’s “living room” and definitely one of the best photo spots in the city. I absolutely loved the fountains here! The distinctive black and white checkered floor creates such a dramatic contrast with the beautiful red ochre buildings surrounding the square. While Place Masséna is emblematic of Nice and definitely needs to be seen, I didn’t linger too long – with only one day to explore, time goes by really fast! I captured a few photos of those striking red facades and then continued following my itinerary.

Musée Masséna: Hidden Historical Treasure

Right off Place Masséna, you’ll find one of Nice’s often-overlooked cultural gems – the Musée Masséna. This elegant Belle Époque villa houses a fascinating collection that tells the story of Nice’s rich history. While many tourists rush past to get to the beach, I discovered that spending even just 45 minutes here gave me a much deeper appreciation for the city’s unique cultural identity. The Musée Masséna Nice highlights include opulent period rooms and a collection of historical artifacts that really bring Nice’s past to life.

Jardin Albert 1er: A Green Oasis

After all that walking, take a relaxing break in the beautiful Jardin Albert 1er Nice, a verdant oasis that provides the perfect respite from the bustling city. This lovely garden is something of a local secret – while tourists flock to the Promenade, locals know this peaceful green space is the ideal spot to catch your breath. I love sitting on one of the benches beneath the shade of palm trees, watching both tourists and Niçois go about their day. The garden’s manicured lawns, fountains, and art installations create a tranquil atmosphere that refreshes both body and mind.

Decision Point: Rue de France or Promenade des Anglais

Now you have a choice to make based on your energy levels and interests! If you enjoy walking and historical curiosities, take a detour to explore the historic Rue de France historical significance. This fascinating street once served as the literal connection between old Nice and France before the city became French in 1860! Walking down this street, I couldn’t help but imagine what life must have been like when Nice was its own little world, with this road marking the boundary to another country. There’s something magical about strolling along this historical borderline!

If you prefer less walking or want to experience the quintessential Nice experience sooner, head directly to the famous Promenade des Anglais history. This iconic seaside boulevard has been the heart of Nice’s social scene since the 18th century when English aristocrats began wintering here – hence its name, which literally means “Walkway of the English.” I still chuckle at the Promenade’s amusing history – local Niçois thought these English tourists were absolutely crazy for taking leisurely walks in what locals considered “cold” winter weather!

Nice’s Statue of Liberty: A Miniature Surprise

Whichever route you choose, make sure to look for the Nice Statue of Liberty location – one of the city’s most charming surprises! This tiny replica is actually one of the original prototypes for the famous New York monument. Standing at just 1.30m tall, it’s easy to miss, but finding this little piece of Franco-American history is such a delightful discovery. I walked past it twice before spotting it! Knowing that this miniature statue is connected to the iconic New York landmark makes it a special find on your Nice walking route self-guided tour.

Opéra de Nice: Italian Grandeur

Between the Esplanade Georges Pompidou and Cours Saleya, take a moment to admire the magnificent Opéra de Nice. This beautiful Italian-style opera house was designed by Turin architect Benedetto Brunati and is an architectural masterpiece! The building is incredibly beautiful, with an epic fresco painted on the stage curtain depicting the heroic Catherine Ségurane during the siege of Nice.

What I found fascinating was learning about the audacious original design – Brunati had installed a vast bay window facing the sea, allowing for the entire back wall and roof to be removed to incorporate nature into performances! Needless to say, the bourgeoisie of that era was not impressed with this innovative feature.

If you can possibly fit it into your visit, I absolutely recommend attending a show here. It’s one of the few occasions left where you can “dress up” – choose an evening outfit that makes you feel comfortable but special! And don’t believe the myth that opera is only for an elite crowd. Today, it’s an art form open and accessible to everyone, with tickets ranging from as little as €5 for those under 30 (available 1 hour before performances) to €94 for premium seats. They even offer “Happy Hour” with 50% off for everyone one hour before showtime!

Esplanade Georges Pompidou: Perfect Photo Stop

Make your way to the Esplanade Georges Pompidou, a lovely green stop along the Promenade des Anglais that’s perfect for photos! I discovered this spot provides a refreshing break from the bustling promenade. From here, take the street that runs parallel to the promenade – it’s a direct route that will lead you straight to Cours Saleya and is much more pleasant than navigating through crowds.

Cours Saleya Market: Alternative Lunch Spot

If you didn’t have lunch in Place Rossetti earlier, the Cours Saleya area offers some excellent options for authentic Niçois cuisine. I particularly recommend Olive & Artichaut Nice (reviews consistently praise their fresh, local ingredients), Le Panier Nice (perfectly located for your itinerary), or L’Escalinada Nice (their menu features all the local specialties). Whichever you choose, make sure to try a proper Salade Niçoise authentic recipe or the delicious Pissaladière Nice specialty – a local onion tart that’s absolutely divine!

When you arrive at the famous Cours Saleya market, you’ll find it transforms completely on Mondays into a fascinating antiques market. Thanks to its colors, flavors, and scents, it’s classified among the 100 most picturesque markets in France! In summer, an evening arts and crafts market animates the area, creating a lively atmosphere for vacationers. Cours Saleya is also a vibrant place with shops selling traditional products as well as restaurants and bars that spread out over vast sunny terraces.

For a special perspective, climb to the top of the Ponchettes stairs, facing Place Pierre Gautier, to enjoy a panoramic view of all this activity below. I discovered this viewpoint by chance and was rewarded with the most wonderful bird’s-eye view of the colorful market umbrellas and bustling scene below!

Don’t leave without sampling authentic socca, a local chickpea pancake specialty served hot and crispy straight from traditional copper pans. The best vendors often have the longest lines, but trust me – it’s worth the wait! Also, here’s a local tip: seek out quieter corners of the market for better prices on the same quality produce that tourist-facing stalls offer.

Before leaving the market area, make sure to visit Maison Auer, a historic confectionery that has been making traditional candied fruits since 1820. The shop itself is like a museum of French sweet-making traditions, and their colorful glazed fruits make for perfect gifts to take home!

Afternoon: Promenade and Panoramic Views

Promenade des Anglais: The Iconic Seafront

From Cours Saleya, make your way back to the famous Promenade des Anglais. This stunning seafront boulevard is truly the crown jewel of Nice! I love the story behind its name – it comes from the wealthy English visitors who started wintering in Nice in the 18th century. These aristocratic tourists would take daily walks along the shore during what locals considered “cold” winter months, while the Niçois watched in amusement, thinking these English folks were absolutely crazy! Today, this 7km stretch of palm-lined perfection has become the beating heart of the city.

Riviera Beach Life

As you stroll along, take a moment to admire the iconic blue chairs and striped sunbeds that dot the pebble beach. These colorful rentals are the epitome of classic Riviera glamour! While renting one is a quintessential Nice experience (I’ve done it myself on longer stays), they’re quite expensive for just a few hours, so I wouldn’t recommend it during a one-day visit. Instead, simply enjoy watching the beach scene and dip your toes in the Mediterranean if the weather permits!

Hotel Negresco: Belle Époque Elegance

Keep walking until you reach the legendary Le Negresco hotel, an absolute must-see on your Nice itinerary. This pink-domed palace has been the pinnacle of French Riviera luxury since 1913. Even if you’re not staying here (and let’s be honest, most of us aren’t!), it’s worth admiring from the outside. The Belle Époque architecture is absolutely stunning! If you’re feeling a bit fancy and have time to spare, treat yourself to a drink at their bar – it’s expensive, but the atmosphere is unforgettable. I splurged on a cocktail here during my second visit to Nice, and the people-watching alone was worth every euro!

We Love Nice Sign: Picture Perfect Moment

Continue to the far end of the Promenade where you’ll find the famous 3D “We Love Nice” letters. This cheerful yellow sign makes for the perfect Instagram moment with the Mediterranean sparkling in the background. I spent probably too much time here trying to get the perfect shot – the combination of the bright yellow letters against the blue sea creates such a vivid memory of Nice!

Castle Hill: The Climb Begins

Now it’s time for what I consider the highlight of any visit to Nice – the climb up Castle Hill (Colline du Château). While there’s an elevator option, I strongly recommend taking the stairs! I know it sounds challenging, but trust me, the experience is completely different. Each step reveals an increasingly stunning view of Nice, and the gradual climb makes the final panorama all the more rewarding.

As you begin your ascent, you’ll notice the colors of Nice intensifying from above – the terracotta rooftops, the azure sea, and the lush greenery all come together in a picture-perfect palette. The stairs are well-maintained with regular places to stop, catch your breath, and take photos, so don’t worry about it being too strenuous.

Hidden Waterfall: A Refreshing Surprise

About two-thirds of the way up, follow the signs to discover the hidden waterfall that many tourists completely miss! The artificial cascade was created in the 19th century, but it feels like a natural oasis amid the Mediterranean landscape. During sunny days, there’s sometimes a lady with pigeons who offers to take photos with them perched on your shoulders or hands. I found this surprisingly charming and couldn’t resist getting my own pigeon photo – it’s one of my favorite memories from Nice!

Panoramic Viewpoint: Nice’s Ultimate Vista

When you finally reach the top of Castle Hill, you’ll understand immediately why this is considered the most spectacular view in Nice. The panoramic viewpoint offers a breathtaking 360-degree vista that simply cannot be matched anywhere else in the city. To one side, you can see the curved coastline of the Baie des Anges with its distinctive azure waters stretching toward Antibes. To the other, the colorful buildings of the Old Town and the harbor of Port Lympia create a picturesque urban landscape.

I spent nearly an hour at the top, just soaking in different angles and watching the light change over the city. Despite visiting Nice several times, this view never fails to take my breath away! The Colline du Château climbing route rewards you with what I think is the best views in Nice France – absolutely worth every step of the climb.

Evening: Sunset Magic and Dinner Delights

Sunset from Castle Hill: Pure Magic

As the day begins to wind down, position yourself for what will surely be the highlight of your day in Nice – sunset from Castle Hill. You have two excellent options here: face the main town to watch the sun cast a golden glow over the Old Town’s terracotta rooftops, or turn toward Port Lympia to see the harbor boats silhouetted against the changing colors of the sky. I’ve tried both, and honestly, there’s no wrong choice!

As the sun begins its descent, watch in awe as Nice transforms before your eyes. The city lights begin to twinkle on one by one, reflecting in the darkening Mediterranean waters of the Baie des Anges. This breathtaking vista of the entire coastline makes for the most perfect Nice sunset photography location – have your camera ready!

Descent and Dinner: Authentic Niçois Cuisine

After the sunset spectacle, make your way back down to the Old Town for a well-deserved dinner. After all that walking, you’ve definitely earned an authentic Niçois feast!

I highly recommend Acchiardo in the heart of the Old Town for the most traditional local dishes. This family-run restaurant has been serving exceptional food for generations, and their ratatouille is simply divine.

Alternatively, La Maison de Marie offers a slightly more upscale dining experience while still maintaining authentic flavors – their fish dishes are particularly outstanding. Book in advance, especially if you want a table on the terrace. You can book directly on Tripadvisor !

Whichever restaurant you choose, be sure to try some local specialties like daube niçoise (beef stew) or pissaladière (caramelized onion tart). And of course, a glass of rosé from Provence is the perfect accompaniment!

Nightcap: Cocktails with a View

To properly conclude your perfect day in Nice, treat yourself to a nightcap at one of the city’s stylish bars. The one in the photo is called Les Bains du Castel.

Farago on the Roof offers spectacular nighttime views over the illuminated city – the perfect way to see Nice from yet another perspective.

If you prefer something with more local character, Le Café des Chineurs has a wonderfully eclectic atmosphere, or try Beer District for an impressive selection of craft beers if that’s more your style.

Final Evening Stroll: Nice by Night

Before heading back to your accommodation, take one final evening stroll along the illuminated Promenade des Anglais. There’s something magical about seeing the lights of the hotels and restaurants reflecting off the Mediterranean while the evening breeze carries the salt air. The Promenade takes on a completely different character at night – more romantic, more mysterious, somehow even more French!

As you walk, reflect on all you’ve experienced in just one day – from the colorful Port Lympia at dawn to the Italian-influenced streets of the Old Town, from the grandeur of Place Masséna to the spectacular vistas of Castle Hill. Nice truly offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean beauty, French elegance, and Italian warmth. And while one day only scratches the surface of what this magical city has to offer, I hope this itinerary has given you a taste of why I fell in love with Nice at first sight!

Conclusion

This day in Nice offers just a tantalizing taste of what makes this French Riviera gem so special! From the colorful Port Lympia to the hidden treasures of the Old Town, from Place Masséna’s striking design to the breathtaking panorama from Castle Hill, you’ve experienced Nice through a local’s perspective. The unique blend of Italian heritage, Mediterranean lifestyle, and French elegance creates an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.

As you take that final evening stroll along the illuminated Promenade des Anglais, with city lights dancing on the water and salt air filling your lungs, I guarantee you’ll already be planning your return! And when you do come back, consider staying at eco-friendly Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare, romantic Hotel Villa Victoria, family-friendly Hotel De La Mer, or splurge on the legendary Le Negresco.

Hungry for more French Riviera adventures? Check out my comprehensive 5-day French Riviera itinerary guide that takes you beyond Nice to explore Monaco, Èze, Antibes, and other coastal treasures. And don’t miss my Hidden Gems of the Côte d’Azur guide where I reveal secret beaches, family-run restaurants, and lesser-known viewpoints that most tourists never discover!