Nice is said to be the weakest adjective in the English language. And we're sure the French hate it when Americans invariably say that Nice is "nice". Sure, it's true, but Nice – the fifth largest city in France – is so much more than just nice. Nice (say it like "niece," please) located on the French Riviera is the ideal place for romantic tropical beach vacations, lively carnivals, culture and art appreciation as well as historical and archaeological finds. Urban energy combined with a laid back atmosphere amidst a backdrop of pebbled beaches, light blue sea, art galleries and historic plazas make Nice every vacationer's dream.
Sights
Join the locals for a stroll or simply sit back and take in the view from one of the blue lounge chairs on the Promenade des Anglais by the Baie de Anges. For a prime view of the city, visit the ruins of the Colline du Chateau. Art and culture lovers will certainly love exploring the different museums in the city (and the fact that entrance is usually free). Visit the Museum of Asian Art, Musee Matisse and the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Archaeology fans will also find the Musee et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez quite an exciting find. Enjoy the concerts or festivals at Place Massena just two minutes from the Promenade des Anglais. Don't forget to take pictures of Vieux Nice or the Old Town with its quaint houses and shops. In the heart of the Old Town is Place Rossetti, famous for its landmark fountain, and the exquisitely designed Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate. Try strolling around the neighborhood at night when the lighting makes your walk a mystical experience.
Food and Drinks
No one should leave Nice without sampling the most delicious ice cream from the best ice-cream makers in the Place Rosetti. You can also try traditional Nicoise cuisine like socca, pan bagnat and salad nicoise from the many restaurants in the Old Nice and the Cours Saleya. For more Nicoise food as well as foreign selections, head to the cafes along the Zone Piettone, a street that runs parallel to the Promenade de Anglais starting at the Place Massena. To make the most of the perfect Nicoise evenings, there are many pubs and bars in the Old Town where you can party the night away.
Shopping
Av. Jean Medecin is Nice's central shopping street. Galleries Lafayette is also worth checking out for affordable fashions. Cours Saleya is home to a flower market while the Nice Etoiles is the city's largest shopping mall, featuring many famous retail outlets.