NICE

Commonly recognised by the Promenade des Anglais, this bustling seaside city wraps itself around this beautiful bay. With its mix of city grit and old world opulence, you can see why many consider this destination the Capital of the Cote d’Azur. Since the 19th Century, Nice has proved itself a magnet for sun seekers and high-rolling spenders, which is no surprise as this coastal city has a lot going for it. Year-round Mediterranean sunshine, fantastic markets, boutique shopping down Rue de France, a historic old town, quaint architecture and more recently in 2013, the brand-new Promenade du Paillon. This 30-acre park runs from the city centre to the sea providing a fabulous slice of urban greenery. On a hot sunny day, grab a fresh sandwich and head to this park for a picnic, the scattered water fountains are great for cooling down and great fun for the little ones to splash around in. Like most cities, Nice is full of culture 

which is displayed fabulously during their famous 2-week Carnival. With Nice airport only at the far end of the Promenade des Anglais, this world-famous event attracts nearly a million visitors of all nationalities every year, and is a great way to discover Nice in the milder winter climate. The lively atmosphere, colourful confetti and excitement of the parade really enhances the French Riviera lifestyle, with current worldwide themes bringing locals and visitors together. For those that would prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can avoid carnival season and still experience the city’s wonderful culture. Wind your way through old town nice, Vieux Nice where the bustling paths will lead you to Cours Saleya. This charming market square is filled with fresh produce and vibrant flowers which will entice all your senses.

PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS

Funded by English expat patrons in 1822, this promenade is arguably one of the most famous seafronts in France. With dedicated lanes for cyclists and skaters, this enjoyable seafront walk provides excellent panoramic views of the bay of Nice. You can even head to the front after dinner when the scattered palm trees light up the sky with their twinkly fairy lights, making it just as pretty in the evening.

NICE CARNIVAL

Like most cities, Nice is full of culture which is displayed fabulously during this famous 2-week event. Consisting of 6 parades by day and night, 17 floats and more than 1000 dancers and musicians from all over the world to make you live this authentic and magical event. It is a great time to discover the culture and traditions of Nice in the milder winter climate.

Parc du Château

If you are looking for the best views over Nice, head to the eastern side of Old Nice where you can climb a winding staircase up to a wooded outcrop or catch a free lift from Quai Rauba Capeu. All that remains now are the ruins, information boards telling visitors what part of the castle they would have been in, an impressive 18th century artificial waterfall and a garden of greenery offering breaks of shade for those admiring the spectacular views.

16TH CENTURY CATHÉDRALE STE-RÉPARATE

Nice was named after a young Palestinian girl named Reparate, who was arrested, tortured and beheaded for her Christian faith. Denied a Christian burial, her body was put out to sea on a raft to rot but the angels guided her across the Mediterranean to the bay of Nice where she arrived untouched. Declared a miracle, this is how the bay of Nice became the Bay of Angels, and how the young Reparate became the patron saint of Nice.

PORT LYMPIA

Built around 1745, Port Lympia has been one of the city's economical driving forces: not only for the transportation of goods, but also for its bustling tourism industry. If you're not bothered about getting up close to the yachts, then don't forget you can see spectacular views of the port up from Parc du Château.

MUSÉE MASSÉNA

Situated next to Hotel Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais, lies this lavish belle époque building originally designed and built by Hans-Georg Tersling between 1898 and 1901, as a holiday villa for Prince Victor d'Essling. Open to the public, this museum is surrounded by an oasis of 19th century stately gardens and filled with more than 15,000 exhibits which are dedicated to the history of the Riviera.