Discover Best Ways to Spend One Day in Nice

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read my Affiliate Disclosure.

Is Visiting Nice in One Day Worth It?

Nice is located on the French Riviera, between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains, making it one of the most iconic spots in southern France, maybe that’s how it got its nickname of being the jewel of the French Riviera.

Known for its relaxed beach vibe, charming old town, and stunning coastline, it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to this city.

Is one day enough to experience it? Well, it can be. On the plus side, you can see many of Nice’s highlights in a day, like the Promenade des Anglais, the colourful Old Town, and the view from Castle Hill. The atmosphere here is laid-back, perfect for leisurely walks and sipping coffee at a café.

However, I won’t lie—one day doesn’t leave much time for a deep dive. You’ll likely miss some of the hidden gems and local experiences that make Nice feel like home for many who stay longer. But if you’re short on time, you can still get a satisfying feel of the city.

In the end, it’s about balancing what you want to see with the time you have. If you’re passing through or want a quick introduction to the French Riviera, a day in Nice France is definitely worth it. But if you’re after a more immersive experience, you might want to plan for more.

How to Spend One Day in Nice

If you only have 1 day in Nice France, the best way to experience the city is to keep it simple—walk, eat, and take in the scenery at a comfortable pace. Here’s how I’d spend a day soaking in the best of Nice.

Old Town (Vieux Nice)

I always start in the Old Town. The narrow, winding streets are filled with small shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a perfect place to wander without an agenda.

Place Rossetti is a great spot to stop for a coffee and people-watch, while Place Masséna, with its checkerboard pavement and fountains, feels like the city’s grand entrance. Don’t miss the impressive Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, tucked between pastel-coloured buildings, or the little alleyways that lead to unexpected discoveries.

Old Town has a lived-in feel—locals chatting in doorways, the scent of fresh bread in the air, and a steady hum of daily life unfolding.

Cours Saleya Market for Lunch

For lunch, I recommend eating at Cours Saleya, the open-air market that’s always buzzing with activity. In the morning, stalls overflow with flowers and fresh produce, but by midday, it transforms into the perfect place for a casual meal.

Whether it’s a traditional socca (a crispy chickpea pancake) or a pan bagnat (a Niçoise-style sandwich), everything here is fresh and simple. Sitting at one of the outdoor cafés, you can soak in the atmosphere—the mix of locals and visitors, the chatter of vendors, and the occasional street musician adding to the charm.

• 💐Flower Market: Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 6 am-5:30 pm, Wednesday and Saturday 6:30 am-6:30 pm, Sunday 6:30 am-1:30 pm
• 🍋Fruit and Vegetable Market every day except Monday from 6 am-1:30 pm
• 💎Antiques/Flea Market – 7 am-6 pm Mondays only

Promenade des Anglais

No visit to Nice feels complete without a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, and what better way to walk off your lunch than here! It runs right along the Mediterranean, where the pebbled beach meets the sea, and it’s always full of life—joggers, cyclists, and people just enjoying the view. I take my time here, stopping at one of the blue chairs along the way to watch the waves. It’s the kind of place where you don’t need to do anything—just be.

Choose Your Adventure: Beach or Museum

By late afternoon, you have two great choices. If you want to unwind, find a spot on the beach. The public sections are free, but I recommend you splurge on a lounge chair at a private beach club for a little extra comfort. The water is cool and refreshing, and even just sitting by the shore is a perfect way to wrap up the day.

If museums are more your style, Nice has a few that are worth a visit. The Musée Matisse, set in a historic villa, showcases works from the artist’s time in Nice, while the Musée Marc Chagall has a collection of his vibrant, dreamlike paintings. Both offer a quieter way to end the day.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

As the sun starts to mellow, I like to walk up to Castle Hill for the best view of Nice. It’s a bit of a climb, but there’s a shady park at the top where you can take a break. The panoramic view of the coastline, the terracotta rooftops, and the deep blue sea is worth the effort. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier streets below, and a good reminder of just how naturally beautiful Nice is.

The closer the time is to sunset, the busier this spot becomes. But it’s still worth it!

Late Night Dinner

Dinner in Nice is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, letting the day wind down over good food and wine. For a classic Niçoise meal, La Petite Maison serves fresh, locally sourced dishes in a lively atmosphere. If you prefer a cozy, Michelin-starred bistro, there’s Jan or Le Bistrot d’Antoine is a local favourite, offering traditional French cuisine with a modern touch.

No matter where you choose, ending the day with a great meal and a glass of wine feels like the perfect way to say au revoir to Nice—even if just for now.

Final Thoughts

Nice may be small enough to explore in a day, but its charm lingers long after you leave. After spending a full week here, exploring nearby towns, it’s a place I know I will return to.

If you’re dreaming of more adventures in France, visit my France page for travel inspiration and trip-planning resources.