Discover the Hidden 3 Days in Nice Itinerary

Nice, located in the South of France, is a must-visit destination, especially if you’re looking for an affordable and beautiful escape. As part of the French Riviera, this city offers visitors a perfect mix of delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and breathtaking coastal views.

It’s an ideal base for exploring the Côte d’Azur region, with its Mediterranean charm and a laid-back atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re in a dream vacation spot.

For those planning a three-day trip, Nice provides an easy commute from other major European cities like London, Marseille, or even Monaco. Whether you’re flying in for a summer getaway or visiting in the milder months of November or May, Nice’s year-round weather and beautiful hikes ensure you’ll have an amazing time. With its historic architecture, world-class museums, and stunning turquoise seas, this city promises a bucket list adventure.

When you’re here, make sure to embrace the local vibe and stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais or visit nearby gems like Cannes and Saint-Tropez.

Cheap flights are available for those on a budget, ensuring this city remains an accessible option for your next getaway. Whether you’re seeking charm, history, or simply a relaxing beach day, Nice is a perfect destination for your holiday.

3 Days in Nice itinerary

Attractions

As you explore this iconic destination, you’ll quickly notice landmarks like Place Masséna, a main square with striking red facades, and Promenade de Anglais, a stunning 7 km stretch along the sea. Known for its beautiful flower market and old town, Nice is a true living space for both locals and tourists, offering a perfect mix of modernity and tradition.

In just 3 days, you can experience the oldest and most iconic monuments like Castle Hill, where you can take a hike to get a panoramic view of the city.

Check out La Tete Carree, a seven-story building with an unusual design.

The La Place Garibaldi and La Place Rossetti will charm you with their 17th-century architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

How Many Days Do You Need in Nice? 

For most travelers, 3 days in Nice is the perfect amount of time to explore the city’s main attractions and soak in the unique atmosphere. With its vibrant local life, beautiful beaches, and iconic landmarks, you’ll have just enough time to eat delicious dishes and experience the highlights without feeling too rushed. 

“Of course, if you have more time, you can extend your stay to 5 or 7 days for a leisurely pace, diving deeper into the local lifestyle and taking day trips to nearby towns.”

The city offers something for everyone, from culture and history to French Riviera flair. But if you’re limited by time, you’ll still find that 3 days allows you to see the best places.

When is the Best Month to Visit Nice?

Nice, with its Mediterranean climate, offers pleasant weather year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. 

• For warmer weather and longer days, the summer months of June to August are ideal, especially if you want to sunbathe or swim along the stunning coastline. 
• However, this is also the peak summer season, meaning higher hotel prices, super crowded attractions, and high prices at restaurants. 
• If you want to avoid summer crowds and enjoy mild weather, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May) or early fall (September to October). During these months, the temperatures are comfortable, ranging from the 50sF to the 70sF, making it perfect for sightseeing, exploring, and outdoor activities.
• For budget-friendly travelers, the off-peak season from November to March is a great idea. 
• While the winter months bring cooler temperatures (around 12.5C during the day and 4.5C at night), Nice remains enjoyable with fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations. 
• You might need a jacket for evening strolls along the promenade, but the pleasant atmosphere and festive events during December make it a good time to visit. 
• Plus, the humidity is lower, and thunderstorms are rare, ensuring a relaxing vacation.
• Ultimately, the best months to visit Nice are May, September, and October, when the weather is sunny and warm, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are more affordable. 

Where can you get Sim Cards in Nice?

When you arrive in Nice, getting a local sim card is easy and convenient. One of the best places to purchase a sim card is at the Relay store located at the airport, which is open until 9:30pm. 

If you prefer, you can order an Orange sim card online from Orange ahead of time to avoid any hassle upon arrival. For those looking for more options, SFR offers a range of prepaid sim cards available online.

If you’re on a budget, LycaMobile and Lebara are also popular providers, and you can check them out at Lyca Mobile and Lebara’s website. 

These providers offer affordable deals for internet and phone usage, including pocket wifi and roaming services for European residents or those visiting from places like Japan. You can also pick up your sim card from tobacco shops, supermarkets, or newspaper kiosks in the city for last minute purchases.

How to Get to Nice

Reaching Nice is easier than you might think, thanks to its well-connected transportation network.

The main gateway is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), which welcomes flights from major cities across Europe and beyond. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or tram to the city center, all of which are convenient and affordable.

If you prefer train travel, Nice-Ville station is the city’s main hub, offering domestic and international connections to France and other European destinations.

For those driving, the A8 autoroute connects Nice to neighboring cities like Marseille, Lyon, and Paris, making it accessible by car.

If you’re on a budget, bus services like Eurolines and FlixBus provide comfortable and affordable options to reach Nice from various European cities. For a more scenic mode of transportation, consider taking a ferry from Corsica, Sardinia, or other ports like Bastia, Ajaccio, or Porto Torres.

When I first visited Nice, I flew with Easyjet from Manchester, and the journey took just two hours. I landed before noon, giving me plenty of time to explore the city by early afternoon.

Flying to Nice

Nice is a well-connected gem on the French Riviera that is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy the Mediterranean coast. Its large international airport, Nice Côte d’Azur, makes it super convenient to fly into from various destinations across Europe and internationally.

You can easily book your flight with European Airlines like Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, EasyJet, Ryan Air, or Vueling.

Taking the Train to Nice

If you’re coming from Paris, you can take the TGV for a 6-hour ride, while Lyon is just 2.3 hours away by train. The journey from Paris to Nice is incredibly scenic, offering beautiful views of the French Riviera as you approach the city.

Make sure to book your train tickets in advance through Rail Europe for the best prices and availability.

Though some travelers may consider flying, the train offers a faster and more scenic alternative to reach Nice from Paris.

Get around Nice by bus

Getting around the city and its surrounding towns becomes a breeze with the fantastic public bus system.

Managed by the Lignes d’Azur company, this affordable and extensive bus network covers the Nice area and beyond, offering easy access to popular attraction sites, villas, and nearby destinations like Monaco. 

Buses run frequently, usually every 10 to 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers. From 6am to 10pm, you can hop on a bus to head anywhere you need to go. 

I personally took a bus to explore the surrounding towns, and it was both cheap and efficient. To buy a bus ticket, simply get one from the ticket vending machine or from the bus driver—but make sure to bring cash only. 

The ticket, costing just 1.5 Euro, is valid for transfers, allowing you to switch between buses or trams, all with the same ticket. Use Google Maps to easily navigate your way to the nearest bus stop. 

Get around Nice by Tram

One of the best ways to get around the city is by tram. The Trams in Nice are quick, affordable, and cover most of the key locations you’ll want to visit.

You can easily buy your tram ticket at a vending machine or a bus stop, with a single ticket costing just €1.50.

Using the tram will help you cover more distance without tiring yourself out on foot. You can hop on the Tram at Nice Ville station or from the Nice Airport to get directly into the city centre. The 3 tram lines are well-connected, making it convenient to explore Nice and all its beautiful spots. 

Walk around in Nice

One of the best ways to experience Nice during your 3-day holiday is by walking. The city is compact, with relatively close distances between place to place, making it easy to explore on foot. 

Most touristy areas in Central Nice are just 15 to 20 minutes apart. Whether you’re strolling along the Promenade des Anglais or wandering through Old Town, walking lets you discover hidden gems you might miss otherwise. 

Just be prepared if it’s super hot or raining—comfortable shoes and a light jacket are a must. I highly recommend this approach to truly connect with the vibrant atmosphere of Nice.

Uber in Nice

If you prefer a private car to get around Nice, Uber is a good choice. It’s often cheaper than local taxis and widely available, making it a convenient option for traveling around the city or even to and from the airport. 

While taxi services are reliable, Uber offers a more budget-friendly and flexible alternative, especially if you’re exploring areas outside the city center.

Where to Stay in Nice

When you’re planning your 3 days itinerary in Nice, finding the right place to stay can make your trip better. I’ve wandered these streets myself, soaking in the nice weather, and I’ll share some practical spots to rest your head that suit different budgets and preferences. 

Whether you’re here for a staycation, solo travel, or a few days of Mediterranean magic, there’s an ideal location for everyone.

From luxury hotels to budget hotels, hostels, guesthouses, apartments, and vacation rentals, Nice offers a variety of options to choose from—here’s my personal take to help you map out the best stay.

• Promenade des Anglais: The Promenade des Anglais is hard to beat if you love waking up to the sea. I stayed there once, and the ocean view from my balcony was pure relaxation—the seafront is alive with restaurants, bars, and relaxation activities. 

• Hotel Le Negresco & Le Meridien: Hotel Le Negresco offers ultimate luxury with its famous charm, period furniture, and historical places vibe, while Le Meridien boasts a trendy rooftop with an outdoor swimming pool for chilling out.
• Hotel Le Royal: For a better, budget-friendly pick, Hotel Le Royal mixes old-school style with comfort, just steps from the beach and Neptune private beach area. 

These hotels give easy access to major tourist sites and luxury stores, perfect for a happy visit with views galore.

• Hotel du Midi: Hotel du Midi is a solid boutique choice, with friendly staff, spacious rooms cleaned daily, and facilities like a kettle for your hot beverages or tea mug. 
• Hotel Du Centre: Hotel Du Centre is another popular gem, decorated simply but offering easy access to the shopping street, Jardin Albert 1er, and transport options, saving on transportation costs for money-conscious travelers.

For a taste of history, Nice Old Town (or Vieux Nice) is where I’d recommend staying again. The narrow streets, colorful buildings, and historic buildings like Notre-Dame Basilica feel like a step back in time, with seafood spots and nightlife all around. 

It’s a bit further away from the train station, but the atmosphere and neighborhood charm make up for it—less street noise than the central area, too. 

• Share Inn: Share Inn offers a cozy vibe with shared rooms and a mix of travelers, perfect for a friendly gesture or meeting folks, and it’s walking distance to the Port (Le Port) and Port area for a night out by the sea. It’s my reason to return every time.

Need more variety? The neighborhoods around Nice cater to every taste. Booking a spot near the beach area or major tourist sites like Jardin Albert 1er ensures you’re located for attractions and transportation. 

Apartments and vacation rentals offer kitchens for a staycation feel, while guesthouses and hostels keep things budget-friendly with a community overview. The staff at these places are often happy to share maps or tips, making your trip spacious and easy. 

Day 1 

The Promenade des Anglais is where I’d tell you to start after arriving and dropping your bags at the hotel. I remember my first stroll here—it’s a world renowned stretch with palm trees, the ocean lapping at the beach, and the famous Le Negresco hotel catching your eye.

You can jog, bike, or take a leisurely stroll along this 7km (5 mile) promenade, soaking in the gorgeous coastline. Head west from Nice Airport or east toward Castle Hill, snapping a photo at the #ILoveNICE sign.

It’s a perfect warm-up to explore this winter destination once loved by rich British and Northern Europeans.

Next, I’d head to Colline du Château—or Castle Hill—for a dose of history and incredible views. You can climb the stairs or take the elevator, and trust me, it’s worth it when you’re greeted by a park overlooking the port and Vieux Nice.

If you’ve got time, pop into the Villa Massena Musee nearby—it’s museum has art, artifacts, and even Napoleon’s death mask, giving you a taste of Nice’s rich past.

Castle Hill

A hill that’s more than just a park—it’s a spot where history whispers through an old military fortress. When I walked up the stairs (though there’s a lift for a couple of easier options), I was hooked by the amazing view from the top. You can walk around the viewpoints, like Bellanda Tower or near the Cascade du Château, and soak in the Baie des Anges, port, mountains, and Old Town sprawling below. It overlooks the bay so perfectly I grabbed lunch up there one afternoon, just gazing out—it’s less busy than the morning rush. Personally, I’d save this for a chill end to your day, with the viewpoints stealing the show over Old town.

Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Diving into Vieux Nice—or Nice Old Town—is a must-do, and I’d start by visiting the Cathedral Sainte Reparate, also called Nice Cathedral.

It’s right in the center of this vibrant old town, a famous gem with its Baroque style that nods to Santa Susanna in Rome. I wandered inside once, soaking in the art pieces and installations—it’s free to visit, and the calm amidst the historical buildings felt like a step back in time. From there, the cobblestone streets and shaded alleyways pull you into exploring, with Italian influence everywhere since this was part of Italy long ago.

Next, I’d swing by Lascaris Palace, a 17th century Baroque palace that’s beautiful and large. I remember climbing to the second floor, eyes wide at the frescoed ceilings, tapestries, and antique musical instruments—it’s interesting and quiet, a perfect break from the bustle.

The Italian style buildings and villas nearby hint at that old connection, and just outside, you’ll spot gelato places like Azzurro, Fenocchio, and Oui—some of the best glaciers for ice cream. I grabbed a cone and kept going, lured by the colorful facades and delicious restaurants tucked into every corner.

Then there’s the Opera of Nice, the main opera venue that’s a treat if you catch a performance of operas, ballets, or classic music concerts. I took a tour of the opera house once, and the theater vibe was pure magic.

A stone’s throw away, Cours Saleya Market beckons—a famous flower market on a pedestrian street that’s open every morning except Mondays, when it turns into a flea market with old furniture and trinkets. I loved to wander there, snapping shots for photography near the Museum of Photography Charles Nègre, which showcases local and international photographic art.

The essential activity here is just soaking it all in—walking past landmarks like Caserne Rusca, Palais Rusca, Palais de la Prefecture, Tour Saint-Francois, and that bell tower peeking over the rooftops.

The terraces are popular spots to eat or drink, and the whole place feels vibrant with life. I’d linger at the gelato parlors, savoring the best scoops, surrounded by these historic streets—it’s what makes Vieux Nice so special.

Day 2

You can hit the beach at Plage des Ponchettes or Plage Beau Rivage, both popular spots with pebble shores.

Grab a lounge chair at Castel, a private beach with umbrellas, restaurant, bar, and service (you’ll pay a bit), or stick to the non-private areas to chill and enjoy the view for free.

Afterwards, I’d mix in a bit of shopping at boutiques or retail chains like Monoprix and Carrefour—perfect for budget travelers wanting a grocery selection or cheap eats.

I grabbed lunch once from there before heading to Old Town, but you could also find a class on perfume making if you’re curious about Grasse, the perfume capital of the world—a workshop nearby is a cool option. By the time you’re done, the waterfront calls for dinner overlooking the sea, maybe with a view of the busy promenade. It’s how I’d make the most of day 2 on this 3 days trip, blending cultural gems with beach relaxation time.

Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice

A crisp morning in Nice, and I’m weaving through the city centre, eager to uncover something unique. That’s when I stumbled upon the St. Nicholas Cathedral, a famous Russian Orthodox church that stands out with its stunning cathedral design.

Having explored European churches for years, I found its Byzantine style a great contrast to the sunny Mediterranean style that defines the coast. Built in the mid 19th century, this cathedral became the first Russian Orthodox church in France, and stepping inside, I instantly loved its rich architecture.

It’s a stunner, crafted as a nod to the Russian nobility after the death of Nicholas Alexandrovich, Tsarevich of Russia, in memory of Tsar Nicholas II.

As someone who’s spent weekends exploring historical sites, I can tell you this building feels like a slice of Russia in Nice, blending culture with a rich history. This historical monument is important not just for its story but for how it pulls you into the legacy of Russia. My tip? Dive into this cathedral style early—its vibe is unmatched, and you’ll leave feeling the weight of its past.

Basilique Notre-Dame de L’Assomption

During your 3 days in Nice, I’d recommend slipping into the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Nice—known as Basilique Notre-Dame de L’Assomption—right in the center of town, where its Neo-Gothic architecture style stands in huge contrast to the St. Nicholas Cathedral.

I popped in one afternoon to peek inside, and the vibrant stained glass lit up the place like a quiet show—it’s the largest cathedral here, founded in 1864, and carries that Roman Catholic soul. Unlike the Russian flair of St. Nicholas, this basilica feels like a gentle nod to old Europe, and I loved how it anchored the bustle of Nice with its calm beauty.

Marc Chagall National Museum 

Imagine lingering in Cimiez on a lazy afternoon, drawn to the Marc Chagall National Museum, a famous art museum that’s always been a must-see for me as a longtime fan. This spot is dedicated to the artwork of Marc Chagall, a Russian-born French artist whose Modernist Art pulls you in with masterpieces like biblical paintings and works.

I wandered the collection, using headphones and an audio guide, soaking up his religious-inspired work and those dreamy stained glass windows—it truly felt like stepping into his mind. The garden outside is a quiet bonus, a perfect breather, but you’ll need to plan ahead since it’s closed Tuesday.

It’s one of my favorite museums, where you can immerse yourself in art worth seeing and learn about local tradition while dodging tourist traps. This place holds a special charm, reflecting the soul of Nice.

Musée Matisse (Closed Tuesday) & its surrounding areas

Over your 3 days in Nice, I’d sneak in a visit to the Cimiez area where the famous Musée Matisse sits—just note it’s closed Tuesday. Housed in a villa, this museum showcases the work of Henri Matisse, a French visual artist known for his fluid color and original draftsmanship as a printmaker, sculptor, and draughtsman.

I roamed there once, struck by how his art pops, then stepped outside to the surrounding park, Jardin du Monastère de Cimiez, near the Cimiez Monastery. The vibe shifts with archeological sites and ruins of a Roman amphitheater, plus Henri Matisse’s tomb nearby—it’s a quiet mix of history and beauty that feels like a hidden corner of Nice.

Av. Jean Médecin

I’d nudge you toward Av. Jean Médecin, a buzzing shopping street that’s more than just shops—it’s the heartbeat of the city, day or night. I strolled there with the tram whizzing by, perfect for hopping to Cimiez or Old Town, while the lights twinkled above after dark.

You’ve got chain stores like Zara and Mango, the fancy Galeries Lafayette department store, and even high-end designer stores—think Hermes and Chanel spilling over to Av. de Verdun.

I’d grab a coffee at one of the cafes, peek into supermarkets, or window shop near hotels and restaurants.

Fontaine du Soleil (Fountain of the Sun)

Over your 3 days in Nice, I’d say stop by the Fontaine du Soleil—a cool fountain in Place Massena. At night, the bronze sculpture of the Greek God Apollo glows with the square’s colors and symmetry, making it a perfect spot to chill with friends—I’ve lingered there, just soaking in the vibe.

It’s a meeting place for Nice walking tours, with restaurants, stores, and hotels nearby, all wrapped in neat architecture. Trust me, it’s a little pocket of Nice that feels alive and easy to love.

Day 3

Eze and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

On your last day of 3 days in Nice, I’d whisk you off for a quick day trip to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a picturesque port that’s pure bliss by the sea. It’s a 20-minute drive or a 14-minute train ride from Nice, but I’d start the morning with Èze, a tiny village perched above the French Riviera—think Middle Ages charm with windy streets and gardens offering incredible views.

I wandered there once, snapping pics, then made a pit stop at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat’s marina, where sailboats bob along the waterfront.

Grab a cocktail or beer at local bars, relax after exploring, and save the evening for La Reserve Beach, a sweet swimming spot, before dinner at Le Plongeoir—a luxurious restaurant on a rocky outcrop with sunset vibes so good you’ll want a reservation in advance.

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

I’d carve out a morning to visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a French villa tucked in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, just a hop from Nice and Monaco. Built by Baroness Beatrice de Rothschild, this magnificent spot was donated to the public after her death, and I still remember wandering its 9 gardens—each with a different theme, spilling over with beautiful flowers and ocean views that made me linger.

The villa itself is stunning, all rosy and grand, and when I explored the property, it felt like stepping into a slice of fancy history—it’s a gem worth seeing for yourself.

Located in the stunning French garden, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Nice. Just a short walk or bus ride away, the villa provides a perfect day trip to immerse yourself in history, art, and lush surroundings.

The grand rooms and beautiful decors give you a glimpse of aristocratic life from a bygone era. After exploring, you can relax in the tea room or on the restaurant’s terrace, where you’ll be treated to a delightful lunch with a spectacular view of the Bay of Villefranche.

If you’re planning your visit, it’s easy to purchase tickets online, which saves time, but if you prefer, you can always get them in person. Families will appreciate that children under 7 get in free, and reservation for busy times is recommended.

Mont Boron

Over your 3 days in Nice, I’d sneak away to Mont Boron, a hill on the east side that’s a quiet gem at 200m above sea level, where the views of Baie des Anges to the west and Villefranche-sur-Mer to the east stole my breath—I hiked the trails once and felt on top of the world.

You can drive, bus, or hike up to the forest park, Parc du Mont Boron, and stop by the Fort du Mont Alban, a fortress built between 1557 and 1560 by the Duke of Savoy—I poked inside on a guided tour and loved its old stones. Walking around, you’ll spot the Greek Church, Notre-Dame-du-Perpétuel-Secours, and maybe even Elton John’s villa, but it’s the beautiful bay and Villefranche that make this separate little day trip from Nice so worth it—just return with time to spare.

St. Paul de Vence

On the last day of my 3 days in Nice, I took a day trip to St. Paul de Vence, a hilltop medieval French town that feels like stepping into fairytales. The bus ride on Bus 400, which runs once an hour and takes about an hour from Nice, dropped me at this small village famous for its art galleries and history. Wandering the cobblestone streets and narrow alleys, I was transported back in time, snapping photos at every corner—especially from the view points along the fortress wall, where the sea and surrounding areas stretched out beautifully. After exploring the truffle market the day before in Nice, this visit felt like the perfect way to reach a quieter, more magical side of France with a view that still lingers in my memory.

Bonus Day

Day Trip to Monaco

On an extra day beyond my Nice itinerary, I decided to spend it with a day trip to Monaco, a dazzling country just 30 minutes away by train—though car, boat, or organized tour are options too, easily set up with quick booking.

This world’s 2nd smallest city-state, nestled between France and Italy, trades the slow-paced vibe I’d recommend in Nice for breathtaking glamour that pulses with life year round.

I loved to explore one of its best things, the Monaco Aquarium, then took in the panorama view at Vue Panoramique sur Monaco, spotting Ferrari cars zipping past the Monte Carlo Casino.

The Palace of Monaco and Saint Nicholas Cathedral felt like stepping into history, while window shopping at designer malls and strolling man-made beaches showed off the rich and famous side—think grand casinos, incredible bars, clubs, and celebrities mingling with tourists. The Japanese Garden was a quiet gem amidst it all, making this visit a flashy, fun twist to my trip.

Check out Nice Port (Port de Nice Lympia)

I took a walk to Nice Port on the east side, a quieter spot compared to the busy morning up at Castle Hill. It’s a perfect place to chill and relax, where I could look at the wonderful mix of mega yachts and small boats bobbing in the water.

The Port is near tasty restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively bars, but I opted for a sightseeing cruise—just one hour from a handy tram stop—to soak in the beautiful view of surrounding towns like Cap Ferrat.

Returning on a sunset cruise felt unforgettable, with the French Riviera glowing in a way that made this holiday truly special. Trust me, this little experience beats the usual bustle and offers a slice of the coast that’s pure magic.

Top 7 Day Trips From Nice Under 2 Hours

While plotting my 3 Days in Nice itinerary, I couldn’t resist the pull of short trips to close destinations like Eze (13 mins by train), Villefranche-sur-Mer (6 mins), Monaco (22 mins), Menton (36 mins), Ventimiglia in Italy (52 mins), Antibes (21 mins), and Cannes (40 mins)—all under 90 mins away!

Each journey was fast, often scenic, and perfect for sightseeing, letting me explore these France and Italy gems with ease.

From the medieval charm of Eze to the glitz of Monaco, I’d plan these excursions for their convenience and time efficiency, hopping on routes that made every visit a breeze.

Last summer, I zipped to Cannes in minutes and felt the thrill of travel without breaking the bank—pure excursion bliss!

Best Things to Eat in Nice

Over my 3 days in Nice, I dove into the famous cuisine at local restaurants and food stalls, where the traditional eats are pure highlights of the French Riviera.

I started with Socca, a hot, lightly toasted pancake made from chickpea flour, crispy outside but creamy inside—a street food gem!

Then there’s Pissaladière, a pastry topped with sweet caramelized onion, salty anchovy, and a hint of fish sauce, which I grabbed near the surrounding areas.

The Niçoise salad stole my heart with its fresh lettuce, tomato, tuna, anchovy, hard-boiled egg, and olive oil, while Pan Bagnat, a hearty sandwich, packed all that into bread.

At a cozy spot in Provence-style, I slurped Pistou Soup, blending basil, garlic, olive oil, zucchini, green beans, potatoes, tomatoes, and pasta—a nod to nearby Italian influences.

With pizzerias and gelato spots everywhere, Nice is a wonderful place to visit, offering the perfect amount of time to savor it all.

Final Thoughts

After soaking in 3 days of my Nice itinerary, I can’t help but love how this city’s proximity to the French Riviera and Italy makes it a perfect amount of time to explore main sites and beyond—think day trips to Monaco (Nice to Monaco is a breeze by rail), Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Ventimiglia over the border, Antibes, and even Saint Tropez or Calanques National Park if you’ve got more time.

It’s almost like a 3 days in Barcelona itinerary, where each day brings a new, exciting discovery.

My French adventure felt impressive with beautiful beaches and picturesque views, and adding a day trip or two from this guide (my top picks!) turned it into a broader trip across cities and borders. I’d spend one day crossing into Italian charm, then back to France’s region of beauty—a week-long visit could even make it a perfect addition to see other gems, but Nice alone was a total win.

Faq 

Is 3 days enough for Nice?

Spend three days in Nice and really experience its vibrant pulse. This perfect amount of time balances simple exploration of the city’s main attractions, like the best views from Nice Old Town to the seaside along the Promenade des Anglais. I spent my last visit here tasting local dishes such as pissaladière at the market, letting you soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. 

How many days are needed to visit Nice?

Three days offers just enough time to visit Nice and enjoy its charm, or you can cram your itinerary into two days in Nice plus a day trip to one or two nearby French Riviera towns. I visited last year, splitting my stay between exploring Nice’s beaches and cobblestone streets, then heading to French Riviera spots like Antibes, feeling the balance worked well. 

Is 3 days enough for the South of France?

Spend at least 3 days in the South of France to explore its charming villages and towns near Nice. This Côte d’Azur region offers enough time to see great spots like charming villages such as Èze and Villefranche-sur-Mer, which I recommend visiting. For an additional day or easily stretching to 5 days, you uncover more villages and great spots—I spent a week here once, finding the extra days let me soak in the beauty. 

Is it better to stay in Nice or Monaco?

Staying in Nice feels better for your 3 days itinerary due to its variety of activities, larger, and vibrant city feel. It’s also cheaper than Monaco, letting you enjoy more without breaking your budget—I stayed there last year, soaking in the beaches and markets. Take a day trip to Monaco for its luxurious atmosphere, iconic views, and exclusive, compact environment, perfect for a quick visit.