20 Unmissable Attractions in Nice

Visit the Archaeological Museum for an in-depth look at life in Roman times. It’s in two parts; one is outside with Roman remains and the other is a more traditional museum on the life and times of Nice’s residents throughout the centuries.

Matisse – one of France’s most-loved painters – lived in Nice for much of his life and the Musée Matisse offers a wonderful look into his life because it is housed in the old villa where he lived for almost 50 years.

Marc Chagall was a local resident (of French/Russian descent) and painted much of his work in the region. He is well known for his interpretations of the Old Testament and the museum in Nice has many on display as well as his wonderful stained glass windows.

Franciscan monks have made this monastery their home since the 16th century. The gardens offer a great chance to contemplate life and love and the inside has some wonderful frescoes on the ceiling.

The cemetery is the final resting place of Matisse and French painter Raoul Dufy, as well as lots of British and American diplomats. It’s wonderfully grand with lots of intricately carved headstones and figures.

There used to be a working castle on the hill above Nice. Now it’s a nice place to have a picnic and watch the world go by. It’s a perfect opportunity for panoramic shots of the town.

Open Tuesdays to Sundays, the morning market is home to lots of organic farmers who come to sell their fresh, seasonal – and sometimes organic – produce to a rapturous audience. If you have gardening queries, there are always people on hand to discuss any green-fingered issues you might have. On Mondays, it turns into an antiques market, which is also well worth a look.

It’s one of France’s most iconic hotels and one of its most kooky, from the décor to the uniforms. The Negresco features in most movies that shoot in the south of France. Head to the bar for a lovely drink.

The Museum of Modern Art is in the town centre at the end of the Coulée Verte. It has lots of great Pop Art pieces, including some by Andy Warhol.

Situated on the famous Promenade des Anglais, the Hotel Meridien isn’t considered as full of character as some of the other hotels, but everyone loves the terrace on the ninth floor. Pay the price of admission by buying a drink, then sit back and enjoy the views along the coast.