Getting off the airplane in the stunning Côte d’Azur this week was surreal. Disembarking felt different than the hundreds of other times I’d done it before. The aiport runway was congested with dozens of private jets and the sea-lined horizon was a vibrant shade of blue that made my wanderlust heart skip a few beats. It was a dream come true.
I dreamt of this moment since my impoverished-ish Europe trip (which doubled as an internship in London) while in journalism school. The French Riviera was on the lengthy itinerary but the travel budget went downhill in Switzerland. Now as a professional traveler and entrepreneur, life couldn’t be more different and I am incredibly grateful to be able to spend stints in some of the most gorgeous places on the globe. I knew I wanted the French and Italian Riviera to be the first summer travel content for The Western Charm. There is nothing more quintessentially European than escaping to the Mediterranean coastline in June. The first stop on the list: Nice, France.
This guide won’t be as activity-intensive as some as my other guides, but you’ll find plenty of lovely things to do in Nice. The French riviera is meant to be enjoyed as the French do: des vacances calmes et relaxantes, a vacation calm and relaxing. I’m not sure how to say with a glass of wine in the hand, but that goes without saying.
Where to Stay in Nice
If you want to experience Nice in the same flair enjoyed by Elizabeth Taylor, Ernest Hemingway and countless heads of state, there is no other choice than the famous Hotel Negresco. Check out my full review of this French hospitality diamond here.
What do Do in Nice
Walk, Run or Bike Along the Famous Promenade des Anglais
This is the heart of Nice’s beach culture and the hub of the city’s seaside energy. Whether dawn or dusk, the Promenade des Anglais is bustling with tourists, runners, cyclists and beachgoers. I went for an early 5:30AM run here my first day and it was so gorgeous I vowed to never miss another sunrise again.
Stroll Through the Port of Nice
The dreamy yachts combined with the vibrant spectrum of architecuture, boats and port-life à la française will leave you swooning.
Snorkel and Swim
Combine your beach and swimming day with scoping out the Riviera’s stunning underwater life — with the clarity of the luminous turquoise waters, you’re curiousity won’t be able to deal with staying only at surface. There are multiple vendors along the port and beach to rent both snorkeling and diving gear.
Eat Your Way Through Old Town Nice
The winding streets of Nice’s old town are enchanting to stay the least. Chances are you’ll stumble upon a cozy eatery that will satisfy every French food — and carb — afficionado. Be sure to stop in one of the gift shops to score some Lavender soap from the neighboring Provence region (something that should always be in your home).
Explore the Château de Nice
Nestled in between the old town and the Port of Nice is an ancient chateau which is accessible by stone stairs. And the view from the top…there aren’t words to convey how breathtaking and momentous it is. Your croissant-stricken glutes wouldn’t mind the action, either.
Where to Eat in Nice
Rene Socca / 2 Rue Miralheti
The best spot in Nice for Socca — these delicious chickpea-based crêpes are a speciality of southeastern French cuisine and you’ll be obsessed upon first taste.
Castel Plage / 8 Quai des États-Unis
For a delicious french meal or aperitivo with a seaview, this restaurant is everything. Try the seafood. Mediterranean fish are the best fish.
Pain & Cie / 85 Rue Saint-François de Paule
The coffee here is just about as rich as the villas in Monaco. No sugar needed. Plus the bread selection (used for their delectable sandwiches) is a subtle reminder why the French give the Italians major baking competition. The lush selection of pastries and meringues are a heavenly bonus.
Fennocchio / 6 Rue de la Poissonnerie
The ice cream is sooooo gooooood and the perfect way to take the edge off the Mediterranean sun. But you don’t need a reason to eat ice cream in France. Just do it.
