Spend 24 Hours in Nice Like a Local: Insights from a Travel Journalist

Great, youthful, and fashionable? Absolutely, the coastal city has awakened thanks to refurbishments and an influx of newcomers eager to redefine the sun-soaked way of life. Join us as we explore this transformation.

7 a.m.: The riverside promenade is mostly deserted.

Featuring an incredibly vivid blue hue, visit the renowned Baie des Anges, bordered by the Promenade des Anglais (Nice’s coastal promenade). This fishing hamlet was elevated to a sophisticated beach destination by British nobility during the 19th century.
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Today, this custom continues among both visitors and residents who relish time by the sea, often taking a refreshing swim either early in the morning or during their lunch break, perhaps at one of the secluded shores. One of our favorite spots is Hôtel Amour, known for its delightful Mediterranean cuisine and charmingly striped umbrellas.

9 a.m.: Enjoy breakfast in Old Nice

If you haven’t called Nice home for many years, navigating through its maze-like network of winding streets sandwiched between tall structures, featuring saffron-colored facades and soft-hued shutters, can be quite challenging; sunlight barely touches the pavement except at midday! For a long time, Old Town Nice was seen as less desirable—known more for butcher shops specializing in offal and similar professions not typically celebrated—but today, it brims with boutiques, art galleries, and some upscale cafes. Be sure to visit Marinette Kitchen, which boasts boudoir-inspired decor and homemade brunches, ideally enjoyed on their petite terrace.

11 A.M.: Exploring Shops in Port Lympia

When you arrive at the end of the walkway, following Cours Saleya’s vibrant daily market bathed in striped light, take another turn and marvel at the opulent yachts parked alongside ferries bound for Corsica or Italy. This area has become popular among neo-residents due largely to historically reasonable property values, as well as opportunities to relax in chic boutiques and explore artisans breathing fresh life back into neighboring areas like Place du Pin and Rue Bonaparte. In summary, this neighborhood has embraced modern trends; try dining al fresco at Comptoir Central Électrique (once a power station, now transformed into a café/restaurant) which was instrumental in ushering in this contemporary phase.

1 PM: Have lunch at ‘Libé’

Jump aboard the tram for about ten minutes and make your way to the Libération neighborhood, commonly referred to as ‘Libé’ by the residents. This area represents the vibrant core of an alternative Nice, tailored more towards family life rather than those drawn to the Riviera lifestyle. Stop by the Libé market or explore the numerous traditional grocery stores to pick up essential supplies. Then take a rest on the Gambetta’s terrace with a casual meal at one of the local breweries. Interested in experiencing something truly authentic?
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Anyone who’s anybody lines up for Tintin, known for its plentiful servings and budget-friendly prices. There are plans to transform the old South Station into a Covent Garden-style food hall; however, progress is delayed, and the area hasn’t undergone this transformation yet. Stay tuned for updates!

3 p.m.: What do you think about checking out some contemporary art?

The allure of the French Riviera drew numerous celebrities during the 20th century.
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era, including artists like Matisse, Picasso, Léger, Chagall,
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This torch was passed on in the 1960s by provocative artists like Yves Klein, Ben, Claude Viallat, Cesar, and Arman. These innovators transformed Nice into a vibrant center for modern art during this intense era, which can be explored at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Nice (MAMAC). Their creative spirit still flows through numerous local galleries and studios, most notably the 109—a former abattoir turned arts complex.

7 p.m.: Enjoying dinner with a view of Old Nice

Interested in enjoying dinner on a rooftop in Vieux Nice? Great idea! It’s topped off with beautiful green surroundings! Welcome to Bocca, which has recently become one of the premier dining spots in Nice.
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The tapas and meals featured on the menu are well-loved throughout the Mediterranean region, whereas the selection of lengthy beverages exudes a distinctly continental French vibe.
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This is quite standard for neo-Nice, a place where the local pubs stay open throughout the night, perfect for heading to post-dinner. When dawn breaks, those who’ve been out all night can enjoy the vista from the promenade. Well done, you made it through the entire cycle!

Plage Amour

47 Promenade des Anglais

06000 Nice

+33 4 97 14 00 83

www.hotelamouralaplage.fr

Marinette Kitchen

13 rue Colonna d’Istria

06300 Nice

+33 4 93 88 29 52

www.marinette-kitchen.com

Comptoir Central électrique

10 rue Bonaparte

06300 Nice

+33 6 23 80 55 61