Nice, France

A stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais is essential. This iconic seaside boulevard stretches for several kilometers along the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels) and is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the Riviera atmosphere.

Just a short walk from the port is Vieux Nice (Old Town), a charming labyrinth of narrow streets filled with pastel-colored buildings, bustling squares, and the famous Cours Saleya flower and food market.

For the best views of the city and coastline, climb Castle Hill. Located between the Old Town and the port, this park offers a peaceful escape and stunning panoramic vistas. An elevator is also available for those who prefer not to walk up.

The medieval village of Èze is a popular excursion, perched on a clifftop with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. It is located about 12 kilometers east of Nice and can be reached by a local bus in approximately 30-45 minutes.

Another frequent destination is the glamorous Principality of Monaco, approximately 20 kilometers away. A 25-minute train ride brings you to the home of the famous Monte Carlo Casino and the Prince's Palace.

For art lovers, the fortified town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a must-see, known for its modern art museums and galleries. It is located about 20 kilometers west of Nice and is best reached by bus or taxi.

The cruise port in Nice, known as Port Lympia, is conveniently located at the eastern end of the city, right at the base of Castle Hill and adjacent to the Old Town. It is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the port terminal to the heart of Vieux Nice and about a 25-30 minute walk to the central Place Masséna.

Because of its proximity to the main attractions, cruise line shuttles are often unnecessary. The port area itself is lively, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is important to note that many larger cruise ships do not dock here but instead anchor in the nearby Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer and tender passengers to shore there. From Villefranche, it is a short train or bus ride into Nice.

The official currency in Nice is the Euro (€). While some tourist-focused shops might accept US dollars, it is not common and the exchange rate will be unfavorable. It is best to use Euros for all transactions.

ATMs, known locally as 'distributeurs automatiques de billets', are widely available throughout the city, including near the port and in the Old Town. Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases at markets or cafes.

Nice is generally a safe city for tourists to explore independently. The primary safety concern is petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Be particularly vigilant in crowded areas like the Old Town, on public transportation, at the Cours Saleya market, and along the Promenade des Anglais.

Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid leaving bags unattended at cafes or on the beach. There are no specific areas that tourists must avoid, but it is always wise to stick to well-lit and populated streets after dark. Using common sense will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Nice enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, making it a pleasant destination throughout the main cruise season. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer very comfortable weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F). These seasons are ideal for sightseeing without the intense summer heat.

Summers (July-August) are hot and sunny, with temperatures often climbing above 28°C (82°F). Rainfall is minimal during this peak season. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings or for visits during the shoulder seasons. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round.

Nice is a very walkable city, especially the areas of interest to cruise passengers like the Old Town and the Promenade. For destinations further afield, the city offers an excellent public transportation system called Lignes d'Azur, which includes buses and trams.

The tramway is particularly efficient for traveling along the main avenues. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but are generally more expensive than public transport. If your ship tenders at Villefranche-sur-Mer, a short and scenic train ride is the most popular way to reach Nice.

Nice offers a diverse shopping experience for cruise passengers. For high-end and mainstream brands, Avenue Jean Médecin is the city's main shopping thoroughfare, featuring department stores like Galeries Lafayette and numerous international retailers.

For a more unique and local experience, explore the narrow streets of the Old Town (Vieux Nice). Here you will find charming boutiques, artisan shops, and stores selling local specialties such as lavender products, olive oil, Provençal fabrics, and local wines. The Cours Saleya market is perfect for fresh produce and flowers, and on Mondays, it transforms into a popular antiques and flea market. Prices in most stores are fixed.