A Brief Guide to Nice in Summer
Nestled between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the rolling hills of Provence, Nice is a sun-drenched destination with timeless charm. Known for its artistic heritage, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture, Nice has long been a favourite escape for travellers from around the globe. Whether you’re wandering through its historic streets or lounging on its famous beaches, Nice promises a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure.
Founded by the Greeks around 350 BC and later part of the Roman Empire, Nice has a rich and diverse history. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by Italian, French, and Mediterranean cultures, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and language. Once a haven for 19th-century European aristocrats, Nice became a part of France in 1860 and has grown into a modern city while preserving its historical charm.
Discover Nice
Top Attractions in Nice
- Promenade des Anglais – Stroll along this iconic seaside boulevard, lined with palm trees, stylish cafés, and luxury hotels. Perfect for people-watching and enjoying panoramic views of the azure sea.
- Old Town (Vieux Nice) – Lose yourself in a maze of narrow streets filled with colourful buildings, bustling markets like Cours Saleya, artisan shops, and authentic Niçoise restaurants.
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – Climb or take the lift to the top for breathtaking views over the city and coastline. The park also features waterfalls, ruins, and peaceful picnic spots.
- Musée Matisse – A must-visit for art lovers, this museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of works by Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for many years.
- Place Masséna – The heart of the city, this beautiful square connects Old Town with the main shopping areas and is a vibrant spot day and night.
Best Areas to Explore in Nice
- Cimiez – A quiet, elegant area home to Roman ruins and museums.
- Port Lympia – Known for its colourful buildings and laid-back vibe, with great seafood restaurants.
- Jean-Médecin – The main shopping district, home to department stores, boutiques, and the modern tram system.
- Promenade du Paillon – A green corridor connecting the city, perfect for a shady stroll or a break under the trees.
Things to Do in Nice
- Relax on the beach – Nice’s beaches are a mix of pebbled and private beach clubs where you can rent a sun lounger and sip on cocktails.
- Try local cuisine – Sample dishes like socca (chickpea pancake), salade niçoise, and fresh seafood.
- Explore art and history museums – Besides the Matisse Museum, check out the Musée Marc Chagall, Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC), and Palais Lascaris.
- Take a boat trip – Cruise the coastline or take a ferry to nearby Saint-Tropez or Monaco.
- Visit nearby villages – Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Antibes are charming and just a short train ride away.
Family-Friendly Activities in Nice
- Parc Phoenix – A large park and zoo with exotic animals, interactive exhibits, and botanical gardens.
- Mini-train tours – Hop on a fun sightseeing train that takes you through the highlights of Nice.
- Beach time & paddleboarding – Many beaches offer calm waters perfect for kids, plus rental services for paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Promenade du Paillon fountains – A hit with children, this area has water jets and mist zones to cool off in the sun.
Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Nice
- Sunset at Castle Hill – Watch the sun dip below the horizon with a panoramic view of the city.
- Dinner in Old Town – Cosy up in a candlelit restaurant down a cobbled alley with delicious French wine.
- Seaside promenade walks – A moonlit stroll along the Promenade des Anglais is a dreamy experience.
- Spa day at a luxury hotel – Treat yourselves to a wellness experience with sea views and top-tier service.
For Solo Travellers in Nice
- Join a walking or food tour – Discover Nice with a local guide while meeting fellow travellers.
- Browse local markets – Cours Saleya is lively and full of colourful produce, flowers, and artisan goods.
- Visit museums and galleries – Take time to explore at your own pace, soaking up the art and history.
- Chill at a beach bar or café – There are plenty of welcoming spots to relax with a good book or chat with locals.
Popular Events in Nice
- Nice Carnival (February) – One of the largest carnivals in the world, featuring parades, flower battles, and street performances.
- Nice Jazz Festival (July) – A world-renowned event attracting top international artists in an open-air setting.
- Ironman France (June) – A major sports event attracting athletes and spectators alike.
- Christmas Market (December) – A magical winter wonderland in Place Masséna with stalls, ice skating, and festive cheer.
Nice Resort FAQs
What makes Nice a popular resort in the summer?
Nice really has it all in the summer — gorgeous beaches, stunning views of the Mediterranean, vibrant old town streets, great restaurants, and that effortless French Riviera charm. It’s the perfect mix of city vibes and laid-back seaside living, with loads to see and do whether you’re into culture, food, or just sunbathing
Is Nice expensive during the summer?
It can be, yes — especially in July and August when everyone wants to be there. Hotels and restaurants tend to hike their prices a bit, but if you book ahead and avoid tourist traps, you can definitely enjoy Nice without blowing the budget. There are also loads of local bakeries and beachside snack spots that are affordable and delicious.
Is Nice a good summer resort for families with children?
Absolutely! Nice has a great family-friendly vibe. The Promenade des Anglais is perfect for strolls with a pushchair, the beaches are calm (though a bit pebbly), and there are loads of parks, gelato stops, and fun day trips to places like the zoo in nearby Cap-Ferrat or the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco.
Are Nice bars & pubs lively during the summer months?
Oh yes — the nightlife definitely comes alive in the summer! From beach bars with DJ sets to chilled pubs and fancy cocktail lounges in the old town, there’s something for everyone. It’s buzzing with both locals and tourists enjoying the warm evenings.
What are the best restaurants open in Nice during July & August?
Most of the top restaurants stay open all summer! Some favourites include:
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La Voglia – big portions, delicious Italian-French fusion, right by the sea.
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Le Panier – a hidden gem in the old town with creative dishes and a cosy atmosphere.
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Peixes – great for fresh seafood and chilled vibes.
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Bistrot d’Antoine – classic Niçoise food, always busy (book ahead!).
You’ll be spoiled for choice — just make sure to reserve in advance, especially in August.
What is there to do in Nice in the summer?
Loads! Hit the beach, rent a paddleboard, explore the old town, check out the art museums, walk up to Castle Hill for panoramic views, or just people-watch with an ice cream on the promenade. You can also hop on the train or bus to nearby spots like Villefranche-sur-Mer, Eze, or Cannes for an easy day trip.
What special events does Nice host during the summer?
Nice puts on a great summer show! Highlights include:
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Nice Jazz Festival in July – big names and amazing atmosphere in the open air.
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Prom’ Party – dancing, DJs and food stalls along the Promenade.
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Open-air cinema – catch a movie under the stars in different parts of the city.
Plus, there are always little music gigs, art exhibitions, and local fêtes popping up.
Is Nice a good place to visit in the summer?
Definitely. It’s sunny, lively, and packed with things to do — whether you want a chilled beach break, a romantic escape, or an adventure-filled trip. Just be ready for some crowds, especially in peak season
What is the weather like in Nice during the summer?
Hot and sunny, pretty much guaranteed! Expect temps around 28–32°C (82–89°F) most days, with plenty of sunshine and very little rain. It cools down slightly in the evenings, so you can still enjoy those late-night walks or dinners outside without sweating buckets.
Is Nice a good resort for mountain biking and road cycling?
Yes! The hills behind Nice are fantastic for both mountain bikers and road cyclists. There are challenging climbs (like the Col d’Èze or Col de la Madone), scenic coastal routes, and inland trails with epic views. Just bring plenty of water — it gets hot out there!
Is Nice a popular destination for hiking during the summer months?
It sure is. You’ve got amazing hikes nearby, like the Nietzsche Path in Eze, the trails around Mont Boron, or the coastal walk to Villefranche. A bit inland, you’ll find even more rugged mountain routes in the Mercantour National Park. Beautiful scenery and hardly any crowds if you go early.
When does the summer season generally start and finish in Nice?
The summer vibe really kicks off in late May and peaks in July and August. Things start to calm down again by mid-September, but the weather often stays warm until early October, so it’s a great spot for a late summer getaway too.
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