Old Town
Old Town
4.5
About
This historic part of Nice feels like a medieval village with narrow streets curving between old buildings with red-tile roofs, small restaurants and open-markets.
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The area
Neighbourhood: Old Town / Vieux Nice
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We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
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2,130 within 5 kms
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382 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Maria K4 contributionsTrip to NiceStunning city beauty beach and people so friendly . Felt very safe walking at night . Best Western Plus hotel on 3 Rue de Belgique ideally located in centre of cityVisited March 2024Travelled soloWritten 12 March 2024
- FoodangeManchester, United Kingdom4,831 contributionsGet Lost in the Old TownWe criss-crossed the old town many times, occasionally getting lost in the dozens of narrow streets. Such a lot to see, including museums, cafés, municipal buildings, music spots and more. It was the first sunny day for a while, so a lot of people about but never seemed that crowded. Could spend hours here .. and we did.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 26 March 2024
- Richard H123 contributionsThe ideal place to get to know the city and its inhabitants.It is the ideal place to feel the soul of Nice for its shops and its numerous restaurants for all budgets. Next to the Promenade des Anglais and the sea. We never tire of discovering new activities and strolling through the alleys to indulge in the rhythm of shopping and local gastronomy.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 7 April 2024
- GoPlaces7622422 contributionsA great place to exploreLove the old town, could walk around it for days without getting bored. Somewhere to stop off and grab lunch or enjoy a delicious glass of wine. Plenty of little shops to explore. A perfect way to waste a few hours or days.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 8 April 2024
- LincolnBestLefkada, Greece787 contributionsPleasant couple of hoursNice to just wander around the old town. Lots of places to eat and they are all very touristy. Prices seem to be pretty much the same everywhere. Best food and prices were in the side streets rather than in the main squares. The brocante fair was fun to wander around, a glorified car boot sale!Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 May 2024
- JuroraPeterborough, Canada599 contributionsVisited here May 2023.Hubby and I headed out of our hotel, to go to Old Town, to see what it was about. We had no plan, and just walked along the Boulevard, and turned up a street in the Old Town section. We came across Rue St. Francoise de Paule, and walked along that. To our surprise, we came across a large street sale of antiques, collectibles, and jewellery, which stretched quite aways. There were so many tables and booths to explore. The sale continued in another area, off that main street. This was held on a Monday, so not sure if it is held just on this day. My hubby went off exploring other streets and the Sea area, while I continued on this street, looking in the lovely 3 souvenir stores. I went back and forth amoungst them, to see what they offered first before buying, and to see if similar items were lesser at one or the other. I later headed along a street looking for lunch and came across the Fontaine du Soleil with the Apollo Statue, which was popular with picture-takers. I wished I had more time to see many more streets of Old Town!Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 May 2024
- Mary LNew York City, New York10 contributionsLike stepping into a fairytaleVisiting the Old Town of Nice feels like stepping into a fairytale. The narrow streets are lined with beautiful architecture, including stunning baroque-style churches. I was particularly enchanted by Rosetti Square with Fenocchio ice-cream shop 🍦 & Saint Reparate cathedral. It’s the most charming place in the Old Town. A truly magical experience!Visited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 23 May 2024
- pfefmeisterSan Francisco, California4,467 contributionsOne of the BestThis is a great Old Town, overflowing with alleys packed with bars, restaurants, and local shops. Just start walking and choosing to go down an interesting walkway. Highly photogenic, we loved it. Things really pick up around 8:00 PM.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 27 May 2024
- LittleDan500Liverpool, United Kingdom333 contributionsLots of shops and restaurantsI stayed here in an air bnb, it was a great place to stay. There's lots of little shops and plenty of restaurants (I recommend L'epicerie Georges). There are also lots of coffee and ice cream places. The location is also great to travel, with Place Grimaldi close so easy access to the airport. Nice Ville station is around 25 minutes to walk to but is pleasant with a coffee and pastry. The promenade and market are also short walks. This is a great place to stay during your Nice holiday.Visited May 2024Travelled soloWritten 27 May 2024
- BackinBracknellBracknell, United Kingdom1,589 contributionsFabulous old NiceGet off the tram at the Cathédrale - Vieille Ville stop and go through the Porte Fausse. You're suddenly in a different world away from the modern city in a maze of narrow streets and pastel-coloured buildings. Lots of shops, cafes and restaurants and don't miss the cathedral and Place Rossetti. A lovely area to explore for a few hours.Visited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 30 May 2024
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4.5
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The Codnor Traveller
Codnor, UK214 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
Old Town Nice is one of my favourite places on Earth.
Made up of winding, narrow alleys, loomed over by large pastel coloured tenement housing, whose ground floors play host to a wide array of shops, boutiques, restaurants bars and cafes.
The area itself, whilst not enormous, does require a good couple of hours to fully explore and appreciate.
Hemmed in by Promenade des Anglais to the south, Promenade du Paillon to the north and by Castle Hill to the east, this small Old Town is almost a de-facto enclave of Nice - a sort of tiny independent part of the city, such is it's change in character and style.
This is in no small part due to the fact that the aforementioned warren of narrow, shady streets has remained pretty much unchanged since the 1700s. You can smell the history here.
You can experience the market here, several baroque churches, lively bars, cafes and restaurants, and all whilst simultaneously feeling as though you have stepped back in time. It's effectively a living, breathing time capsule.
One of the things I really like here is that the character of Nice really comes through. It would be easy for a place such as this to become a tourist trap, however it doesn't do this - it very much plays host to a charming arrangement whereby locals and tourists coexist perfectly side by side. It's hard to imagine anywhere else where such a lovely arrangement is so we'll executed.
Another thing I really like is that the narrow streets and lanes all have their names signed in both French and the local Nice dialect - niçart.
This is one of those places where I immediately feel at home. Whether I have been there for ages, or just arrived. I just feel at home.
I am sure any traveller visiting Nice for the first time will feel exactly the same. It has an enchantment that all but guarantees it.
Made up of winding, narrow alleys, loomed over by large pastel coloured tenement housing, whose ground floors play host to a wide array of shops, boutiques, restaurants bars and cafes.
The area itself, whilst not enormous, does require a good couple of hours to fully explore and appreciate.
Hemmed in by Promenade des Anglais to the south, Promenade du Paillon to the north and by Castle Hill to the east, this small Old Town is almost a de-facto enclave of Nice - a sort of tiny independent part of the city, such is it's change in character and style.
This is in no small part due to the fact that the aforementioned warren of narrow, shady streets has remained pretty much unchanged since the 1700s. You can smell the history here.
You can experience the market here, several baroque churches, lively bars, cafes and restaurants, and all whilst simultaneously feeling as though you have stepped back in time. It's effectively a living, breathing time capsule.
One of the things I really like here is that the character of Nice really comes through. It would be easy for a place such as this to become a tourist trap, however it doesn't do this - it very much plays host to a charming arrangement whereby locals and tourists coexist perfectly side by side. It's hard to imagine anywhere else where such a lovely arrangement is so we'll executed.
Another thing I really like is that the narrow streets and lanes all have their names signed in both French and the local Nice dialect - niçart.
This is one of those places where I immediately feel at home. Whether I have been there for ages, or just arrived. I just feel at home.
I am sure any traveller visiting Nice for the first time will feel exactly the same. It has an enchantment that all but guarantees it.
Written 12 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
korben79
Germany768 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
The old town of Nice (Vieux Nice) is a true gem on the French Riviera and an absolute must for every visitor! Its narrow, winding streets are lined with charming, colourful houses, small cafes and traditional shops. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with the scent of freshly baked pastries and herbs swirling through the air. The market at the Cours Saleya is particularly impressive, offering fresh produce and flowers – a treat for all the senses.
A highlight is the ascent to Nice Castle, from where you have spectacular views of the city and the sea. The old town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Mediterranean way of life and experience the flair of Nice.
Whether you're visiting the historic churches, enjoying local specialities such as socca or pissaladière in one of the cosy restaurants, or simply strolling through the streets, Nice's old town offers an unforgettable experience. A true paradise for culture and pleasure lovers!
A highlight is the ascent to Nice Castle, from where you have spectacular views of the city and the sea. The old town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Mediterranean way of life and experience the flair of Nice.
Whether you're visiting the historic churches, enjoying local specialities such as socca or pissaladière in one of the cosy restaurants, or simply strolling through the streets, Nice's old town offers an unforgettable experience. A true paradise for culture and pleasure lovers!
Automatically translated
Written 14 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Javier G
42 contributions
Nov 2024 • Family
Nice’s old town is a maze of narrow streets, full of colours, aromas and life. I loved getting lost among the small shops, markets and cafes. The architecture is very picturesque, with its warm colored buildings and balconies full of flowers. It is the perfect place to sample socca, a local specialty, and enjoy a good wine while watching life pass by. A place full of history and charm, inviting you to explore without haste.
Automatically translated
Written 23 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ShellyLeon
Little Canfield, UK81 contributions
Dec 2022
We went to Nice for the Xmas Market. It was my first time visiting this area of France and I was not disappointed. The Old City is Beautiful and a great base to explore. We visited Monaco on a day trip, we took the coastal route by bus which took about an hour and cost 1 Euro 50 Cents! The Xmas Market was not as big as we imagined, however the City has so much to do and see you will be kept more than occupied! I would love to return in the summer!
Written 20 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MumbaiRiders
Mumbai, India2,025 contributions
May 2023
Time had stood still in Vieux Nice(Old Town) in comparison to the plush sea facing edifices of Promenade des Anglais.The Old Town of Nice is made up of tall tenement houses lined up along narrow and shadowed streets. The ground floors are occupied by restaurants, shops, and the galleries of local artists. You can buy everything here, from Provencal spices to hand-made jewelry and cosmetics
Written 29 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jaybeeFL
Palm Harbor, FL3,467 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Our 4 hour cruise ship excursion in Nice was limited but we seem to have made the most of it by concentrating our tour in the old town. Walked the promenade, shopped the open markets and colorful Marche aux Fleurs, viewed the ornate opera house and other beautifully restored buildings (Governor's palace and Palais de Prefecture) and dined at a wonderful French restaurant. I'd say we packed a lot in, in a very short time!!
Written 7 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
thekubiaks
North Carolina Mountains, NC178 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
It took my wife and I 4 days of a 7 day trip to Nice to discover that all of the fun places to go and eat were in the old town. We stayed at the Le Negresco (outstanding) but the restaurants around the hotel were lame. We then discovered an area with better quality food by the Le Meridien, from the beach go inward a few blocks. Do a search for La Cuccina to find this area where there are some good restaurants. We ate here a few nights and were kind of disappointed. Then we finally ventured into Old Town, we discovered that that is where the action was. Many good restaurants, many good bars and pubs. Narrow alleys loaded with food and bars and energy....we have three more days here and will spend them in old Town for sure. bon apettit
Written 15 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
duck8to
Montville, NJ6,799 contributions
Feb 2020
This is the part of Nice that has a romantic Bohemian charm. Set on the hills overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it has long been the summer home of some of the world's rich and famous. Elton John and Steven Spielberg have owned homes here.
Narrow medieval streets with winding alley ways are lit at night by old lamps which expose multi-colored French balconies, windows and beautifully colored red tiled roof buildings with rich histories. Street performers entertain in the evenings as you stroll through the narrow streets. Colorful and artistic personalities seem to gravitate to this part of town. Bars and restaurants are plentiful and diverse offering a wide range of cuisines. Some restaurants can be pricey like Le Boudoir and Di Piu but you can also find less expensive fare.
It gets very hot in the summer but Old town Nice is blessed with many shade trees and the breeze from the sea is welcomed.. Small unique shops that sell local soaps, boutique clothing and perfumes can be found. There are also some more modern shops. Open air markets selling flowers, candies and sea food add much to the overall vibe of this area of Nice. I love gelato and thought the French have a nice version but I prefer Italian gelato.
Narrow medieval streets with winding alley ways are lit at night by old lamps which expose multi-colored French balconies, windows and beautifully colored red tiled roof buildings with rich histories. Street performers entertain in the evenings as you stroll through the narrow streets. Colorful and artistic personalities seem to gravitate to this part of town. Bars and restaurants are plentiful and diverse offering a wide range of cuisines. Some restaurants can be pricey like Le Boudoir and Di Piu but you can also find less expensive fare.
It gets very hot in the summer but Old town Nice is blessed with many shade trees and the breeze from the sea is welcomed.. Small unique shops that sell local soaps, boutique clothing and perfumes can be found. There are also some more modern shops. Open air markets selling flowers, candies and sea food add much to the overall vibe of this area of Nice. I love gelato and thought the French have a nice version but I prefer Italian gelato.
Written 12 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christophe B
Quebec City, Canada1,034 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Absolutely beautiful area of Nice. Lots of charm and many good restaurants... but also many tourist traps so be aware. I can't give it a 5 stars rating because it is INCREDIBLY crowded. People walk on each other in the summer. Still, it's a must in Nice.
Written 17 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JuneinNorway
Asker, Norway94 contributions
Mar 2023
I thought I'd just mention that old Nice is such a wonderful compilation of developments. Restoration goals appear to have been practiced in architectural design discipline and you can see extreme detail to hold the old city in a form that reflects its long and proud heritage. In other words, this is not the 'old city' that is, at least to most appearances, filled with rot, mold and decay: it's alive and cared for! It's very vibrant and engaging to be there in real life, wander and shop, eat, visit, study, mill with others of all ages and activities, attend the churches, etc.
Written 2 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi,how is public transportation in and around Nice ( Canes, Monaco, St Paul de Vince, Avignon)? Can I use public transportation to visit these places or should I rent a car? Thanks
Written 11 August 2022
Public transports are excellent and can drive you up to Italy. Bus lines stop at every small city ( like Eze which nice to see) or large city ( like Monaco).Price are OK.Buses are also safer than cars if you are not used to drive in Southern France (which is challenging ...).Have a good trip.
Written 16 August 2022
Hello all,
My boyfriend and I are going to Nice in September. We also wanted to spend one day in a nearby town just to see something else while we’re there. We’re stuck between Monaco and St-Jean-de-Capp-Ferrat.
We’re 27, wanting something with a bit of a buzz, somewhere nice to eat.
We were more set on Monaco as I think it would be cool to see but I’ve been told by a few people it is really built up and really not that much to do there. Is this correct?
Thanks so much in advance.
Written 10 August 2022
Monaco is something to see. However, I do not think spending an entire day there is necessary. I would stay in Nice and drive over and spend a few hours
Written 11 August 2022
Hi, we are planning a 3 night stay in the old town in September. Any recommendations for accommodation? We're not fussy 😊
Written 12 April 2022
Hotel Byakko is excellent!
Written 15 April 2022

john fentimane
London, United Kingdom
ATTENTION ATTENTION DANGER
pub Snugg and Cellar 22 rue droite danger de contamination covid 19
aucunes distanciations sanitaires pub et terrasses exiguë et illégale personnel non masqué malade toussant dans les consommations gros risques sanitaires n'y allez surtout pas si vous voulez restez en bonne santé !!!!!!!!
Written 21 June 2020
Merci de votre avertissement mais je ne connais pas cet endroit car nous sommes en France
Written 22 June 2020
We are hoping to go back to Nice again next year, however this time the flights do not fit in well to allow us to be there the whole weekend as we would have liked, which would mean us being there for the beginning of the week as well. I have seen some reviews mentioning that a lot of places seem to close on Sundays and Mondays. We would be mainly interested in the old town and markets etc. but am worried in case it would be a bit quiet then..
Written 11 October 2019
The old town is buzzing on a Sunday as we found it full of people from the cruise ships. Market open. That was lovely. Head up the hill to the stunning cemetery and then higher to the cascade...the best thing in Nice. Relax up there and look down on everyone. There is a lift outside the market and in the tower at the end of the promenade. Enjoy....we did on our anniversary.
Written 1 November 2019
Hi Claudette,
Which private beach clubs did you visit in Antibes and Nice? Appreciate the response, thanks!
Written 6 August 2019
There were no private beaches, except there is one in Antibes
Written 19 September 2019
When we arrive at the airport is it possible to drive around Old town before going to our hotel in Monte Carlo?
Written 30 July 2019
It’s much easier to walk around the Old Town - it’s not that big and you’ll absorb much more of the atmosphere!
Written 30 July 2019
Hi a female friend of mine is thinking of staying in an apartment in Nice Old Town, is it safe at night for single female travellers? Would this be advisable? Thank you in advance
Written 22 June 2019
We thought Nice was safe, although we weren’t out late at night. Just like anywhere one should be aware of the surroundings. We did have a pick pocket encounter at the train station, a group surrounded my husband and actually got his hand in my husband’s front pocket. He was able to grab his hand and push him away. The pick pockets are all over France one thing to be aware of. Overall Nice is beautiful.
Written 23 June 2019
Restaurants open mostly at 12 pm to 2.30/3pm. Evening definitely 7 pm to about 10 pm. Even if there are staff in between, they will not serve. Work to Rule
Written 3 June 2019
Pretty much answered by previous correspondents. Cafes open early in the morning, can I suggest Pain et Cie for pastries. The flower markets operate each day. Book market and flea market operate on weekends. A good range of restaurants are around Saleya. Near the beach and short walk to Medecin, the main street of Nice.
Written 3 June 2019
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