Whenever the thought of the French Riviera comes to your mind, you see the shades of azure water, sun-kissed beaches, and also charming cobblestone streets coming right in front of your eyes. Located at the end of this pretty coast, you will find the city of Nice. Which can be described as a gem because it blends European taste and rich culture.
The Promenade des Anglais is the front beach seaside that stretches along the Bay of Angels. As I walked along it, I could not help but be taken by the majestic views that were so apparent. The deep blue waters of the Mediterranean shone even more under the sun. And the palm tree-lined boulevard was full of the liveliness of both locals and visitors alike.
Named after the aristocracy who used to pass through it on their escapes to the warmer climate of the French Riviera during the winter months of the 19th century, the Promenade des Anglais is one of the most authentic reminders of the city’s mix of old and new.
You can take a gentle walk on the Promenade des Anglais and feel the breeze from the ocean. And catch the sight of light blue waters blending with clear skies. The rhythmic dance of palm trees leaving soft shadows on the quay reminds you to stop and let your senses radiate and seep in.
Along the promenade there are several booths to rent bicycles, so that the coast can be explored at one’s own pace. You can also see people bathing on the shores of the Mediterranean in the pebble-strewn areas.
Exploring the Old Quarter
Nice is a city where the old-world charm blends with a modern touch. The vivid Vieux Nice, or Old Quarter, is a tangle of tiny alleys and action-packed squares. Here you’ll find markets, cafes, and also artistic shops. Like a traveler who strolls through the maze-like streets, I found myself surrounded by the pleasures of the senses, with the smell of baked pastries and the lively buzz of the locals going about their daily business merging together.
The most fascinating aspect of the Old Quarter is its buildings. In the narrow side alleys, loom great cathedrals and half-timbered houses with brightly painted shutters. The streets are lined with the dazzling architecture of the French craft tradition from Mainz to Strasbourg. Every facade conceals a wonder of construction, decorated walls and columns, framing statues, barrel-vaulted ceilings of old balconies and faux marble stairways.
The Sandy Beaches of Nice
While in Nice, do not forget to pay a visit to Nice’s sandy beaches. Regardless if you fancy the sunbathed sandy Plage Beau Rivage or the pebbled and calm Blue Beach, there are plenty of beaches with their sunshine and azure water where you can have a tan and a swim.
For those looking for an escape, the pebbled beaches of Villefranche-sur-Mer offer tranquility and clear waters, secluded on the other side of the harbor from the noise of Nice.
Meanwhile, Plage de la Réserve pulls in a more fashionable crowd thanks to its luxurious facilities and noisy beach clubs. Where you can sip champagne cocktails, eat Michelin-starred food, and listen to live music as you gaze out to sea.
One cannot even think of visiting Nice without considering its gastronomy. From the celebrated Socca, a savory chickpea pancake cooked to a crispy texture, to the luscious Nicoise salad filled with fresh flavors. Nice presents you with a culinary journey unlike anywhere else. Terrace cafes are where I would sit, preferably with a glass of wine and a platter of delicacies.
The city is also home to the Musée Matisse which was created to honor Henri Matisse and his significant connection with the city and its light and landscape. Then there’s the Musée Marc Chagall with its beautiful collection of ex-Vatican biblical scenes, painted by Marc Chagall. If historical places are more of your thing, the Colline du Château (the hill of the castle) is the perfect place to take in how the city has been shaped over the centuries and to savor its long-standing past. And, if you want amazing views over the city, you can gaze over the city from the ruins of a medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century.
Looking at the sunset with its golden glow on top of the cityscape I realized how lucky I am for all those quiet moments of appreciation of the beauty of Nice. To balance out a very fast-paced world, this lovely city reminded me to be very relaxed, relish simplicity, and settle for the art of living very well.
Nice might be adored for its nature and culture but in the long run, people remember that they were well received and hosted by the city. Whether walking halfway up to its monuments, tasting its food, or lounging lazily over glasses of wine on beaches on the French Riviera, Nice always makes you feel special.
