Story by Jimmy McKenzie

Photos by Paul Clemence

Bonjour, mes amis! If you’re looking for a place to soak up the sun, enjoy some delicious food and wine, and explore a rich cultural history, then Nice is the place for you. This bustling city on the French Riviera has it all – from gorgeous beaches to charming old town streets to stunning vistas. Here are my top five picks for things to do in and around Nice:

1.    Parc de La Colline du Chateau: Okay, so I know what you’re thinking – “a park, really?” But trust me, this park is a hidden gem. Located in the heart of Nice, it offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. And the best part? You can explore the ruins of a medieval castle while you’re there.

2.    Nice Beach: Now, I know what you’re really here for – the beach. And let me tell you, Nice’s beach is the real deal. Crystal-clear water, plenty of space to relax, and some seriously stunning scenery. Just make sure you bring some beach sandals because the rocks can be a bit of a pain.

3.    Place Masséna: If you’re looking for a spot to people watching and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine, then head to Place Masséna. This public square is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to soak up the local vibe. And don’t miss the stunning art installation, “Conversation à Nice” by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. It’s worth the trip alone.

4.    Saint-Paul de Vence: Ready for a change of scenery? Located just a few kilometers from Nice, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a picturesque medieval village that has attracted artists and celebrities for years. The village is known for its winding streets, art galleries, and sprawling views of the surrounding countryside. One of the most famous attractions in Saint-Paul-de-Vence is the Fondation Maeght, a museum walking the distance away from the town’s center that showcases modern and contemporary art from around the world.

Surrounding walkway at Saint Paul de Vence. Photo Paul Clemence.

5.    Brunch at La Vague de Saint Paul Hotel: Finally, it’s time for some food. This cozy hotel just outside of Nice is known for its art events and top-notch gourmet offerings. But the real star of the show is their Sunday brunch, very popular with the locals. Renowned Chef Akhara Chay’s menu is full of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that will leave your taste buds singing. You can enjoy your meal on the hotel’s terrace overlooking the pool. It’s the perfect way to end your trip to Nice.

So there you have it – my top five picks for things to do in and around Nice. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to soak up some sun, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Bon voyage!

Jimmy McKenzie is a passionate travel writer and the owner of Paradise Interactive Media, a travel marketing agency specializing in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. He contributes to various travel blogs and serves as a travel columnist for various publications. Jimmy’s focus areas include hotel travel reviews, destination marketing, luxury, and adventure travel. Through his captivating writing and marketing expertise, he inspires readers to explore the world and helps businesses thrive in the travel industry.

Paul Clemence is an award-winning photographer and writer exploring the cross-section of design, art and architecture. A published author, his volume Mies van der Rohe’s FARNSWORTH HOUSE remains to this day the most complete photo documentation of that iconic modern residential design, and a selection of these photos is part of the Mies van der Rohe Archives housed by MoMa, New York. He is widely published in arts, architecture and lifestyle magazines like Metropolis, ArchDaily, Architizer, Modern, Casa Vogue Brasil and others. Archi-Photo, aka Architecture Photography, his Facebook photo blog quickly became a photography and architecture community, with over 970,000 followers worldwide. An architect by training, Clemence is originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and now lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.