Nice Holidays

A sophisticated beach scene

Nice’s pebble beach fringes the Bay of Angels, with the sea on one side and the Promenade des Anglais and a peppering of swanky beach clubs on the other.

The big beach

Nice’s main strip of beach is impossible to miss – it’s a pale grey, pebbly number, stretching all the way from the airport in the west to the marina in the east. A line-up of beach clubs have set up shop along the shore, so you’ll have no trouble finding a sunbathing spot and a bite to eat.

The secret beach

Tucked away behind the harbour lies Plage des Bains Militaires – or Beach of the Military Baths. This tiny bay’s made up of the same grey pebbles that you’ll see on the main stretch, and it comes with a bit more shade thanks to its sheltered position.

Bargain Buys

Bargain Buys

Nice may not be known for its low-cost shopping, but there are bargains to be found at the weekly flea market in Cours Saleya. You can pick up everything from antiques to vintage clothing here.

Mid-Range Buys

Mid-Range Buys

The three-storey Nice Etoile is a good place to start if you fancy some retail therapy. This mall’s packed with stores selling everything from fashion to home furnishings, and there are plenty of cafés and restaurants in the mix, too.

Designer Buys

Designer Buys

If designer brands are what you’re after, opt for a stroll along Rue Paradis and Avenue de Verdun, just behind Jardin Albert 1er near the old town. You’ll find the likes of Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Armani here.

Laid-back evenings

Laidback evenings

For a low-key night out, look to the cosy bars in Nice’s old town. You’ll find plenty of drinking spots with live music and cocktail menus – some have small dancefloors, while others attract a quieter crowd.

Lively evenings

Lively evenings

The seafront prom’s not just home to restaurants – it’s also where you’ll find some of Nice’s liveliest night-time spots, including a few nightclubs. Street performers start to appear in the evenings, too, adding to the fun atmosphere.

Ratatouille

This internationally famed dish originated in Nice, so it’d be rude not to try it while you’re there. It’s a stewed mixture of vegetables and herbs like carrots, tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil and courgette, most often served as a side dish.

Niçoise salad

This classic dish is made up of sliced tomatoes, hard boiled eggs and green peas layered on top of lettuce, then topped with tuna and anchovies. You’ll find it on restaurant menus all over the city.

Socca

You’ll find this popular snack on offer at street food stalls all around Nice, so it’s easy to get your hands on one. It’s essentially a crepe made from chickpea flour and olive oil, heavily seasoned with pepper.

Daube Niçoise

If you’re after something more filling, opt for this dish. It consists of beef that’s been slow-cooked with red wine, carrots, onions and herbs. You’ll usually get a hearty side like bread or pasta to go with it.

Pissaladière

Pissaladière’s a tart topped with black olives, caramelised onions and anchovies. It’s a bit like a pizza, but with a chunky, bread-like dough.