Experience Nice, France Like a Local: A Complete Guide
If you're looking to experience Nice, France, beyond the usual tourist spots, this guide will show you how to immerse yourself in the local culture. From strolling along the iconic Promenade des Anglais to savoring traditional street food like socca, Nice offers a blend of vibrant markets, hidden gems, and breathtaking coastal views. Explore the charm of Old Town, enjoy panoramic vistas from Castle Hill, and unwind with a glass of local wine at a neighborhood café. Let’s dive into how you can experience Nice like a true local.
A Morning Stroll Along the Promenade des Anglais
Begin your day in Nice with a leisurely walk along the Promenade des Anglais. This iconic seafront walkway stretches for seven kilometers along the sparkling Mediterranean coast. While it’s a popular tourist spot, locals take advantage of the peaceful early morning hours to jog, bike, or simply enjoy the sunrise. Stop at one of the blue chairs to relax and take in the sea breeze while you watch the world go by. The tranquility in the early hours allows you to truly absorb the beauty of Nice before the crowds arrive.
There are a few things along the Promenade that you will want to keep your eye out for:
Image Source: Chef Denise
Visit Cours Saleya Market
After your morning stroll, head to Cours Saleya, Nice’s vibrant market that’s a favorite among locals. Cour Saleya hosts four different markets that are flower markets, flea markets, vegetable markets, or a combined market. The market is a lively mix of fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. You’ll find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and olive oil. Be sure to pick up some socca, a traditional chickpea pancake that’s crisp on the outside and soft inside – perfect for a quick snack as you explore. The market is also an excellent spot for people-watching, as locals come and go, chatting with vendors and filling their baskets with fresh goods.
Flower Market – Marché aux fleurs – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 6.00-17.30. Wednesday and Saturday 6.30-18.30. Sunday 6.30-13.30. Closed Mondays.
Fruit and Vegetable Market – Marché aux fruits et legumes – every day except Monday from 6.00-13.30
Antiques/Flea Market – Marché à la brocante – 7.00-18.00 – every Monday
Evening Market – Marché artisanal nocturne – 18.00-0.00 – June through September
Fun Fact: In 1897 Nice opened the first wholesale cut flower market in the world! The growers would cut the flowers and bring them down from the hills every morning. Once the wholesalers placed their orders, they would make the remaining bouquets available to individuals.
Location: 06300 Nice, France
Explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice)
Vieux Nice, the historic heart of the city, is where you’ll find winding streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, charming boutiques, and local eateries. Take your time wandering through the narrow alleyways, discovering hidden gems such as family-run bakeries, artisanal shops, and quaint cafés. The area is full of history, with landmarks like the Cathedral of Sainte Réparate and the Place Rossetti offering glimpses into the city’s past. Don’t forget to stop by Fenocchio, a local favorite for artisanal gelato, offering a wide range of flavors from classic vanilla to adventurous cactus.
Enjoy Lunch Like a Local
For lunch, step away from the tourist-heavy restaurants and seek out a more authentic dining experience. Try La Merenda, a cozy bistro tucked away in Vieux Nice that serves traditional Niçoise cuisine. Expect dishes like pissaladière (an onion tart with anchovies and olives) or ratatouille – all made with fresh, local ingredients. Another great option is Chez Pipo, where you can try the best socca in town. Pair it with a crisp glass of local rosé for a true taste of Nice.
Image Source: French Riviera Travel
Visit Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
The castle itself no longer stands however the park atop the hill offers stunning vistas of the Baie des Anges, the Port of Nice, and the city’s terracotta rooftops. Locals often come here to relax in the shaded park, have a picnic, or enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustle of the city. If you choose to hike, it can be a bit steep, but there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way, and the views at the top are well worth the effort. Other place that are worth checking out are:
Bellanda Tour
Parc du Château Escalier, Mnt Lesage, 06300 Nice, France
Memorial to the Victims of Terrorism in Nice
Jewish Cemetery and Holocaust Memorial
All. François Aragon, 06300 Nice, France
Cimetière du Château
All. François Aragon, 06300 Nice, France
Panoramic Viewpoint of Old Nice
Mnt du Château, 06300 Nice, France
Main Viewpoint (Point de vue Colline du Chateau)
Nice Port Viewpoint (Point de vue Port de Nice)
Relax at Coco Beach
For a more secluded experience, head to Coco Beach, a favorite among locals. This small, rocky beach is tucked away from the main tourist areas, offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring, with crystal-clear waters that are ideal for a refreshing dip. Bring a towel and a book, and spend the afternoon lounging in the sun. Unlike the busier beaches along the Promenade des Anglais, Coco Beach feels like a hidden oasis, where you can enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean in peace.
Enjoy a Sunset Drink at a Neighborhood Café
As the day winds down, there’s no better way to experience Nice like a local than by enjoying a drink at a neighborhood café. Head to La Civette du Cours or Le Comptoir Central Électrique, where you’ll find locals gathering for an evening apéro – the French tradition of pre-dinner drinks. Sip on a glass of Provençal wine or a pastis, the local anise-flavored spirit, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The cafés spill out onto the streets, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe that perfectly captures the essence of life in Nice.
Dinner at a Local Favorite
For dinner, continue your local experience with a meal at a traditional Niçoise restaurant. Le Plongeoir (pictured above) is an iconic dining spot perched over the sea on the famous pillar of rock and the base of a diving board above the Mediterranean. It offers not only incredible seafood but also breathtaking views of the sea. This unique restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, combining fresh, local ingredients with a stunning coastal atmosphere. Alternatively, Acchiardo offers hearty, homemade Niçoise dishes passed down through generations. Both spots are popular with locals, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation. Expect generous portions, friendly service, and an authentic dining experience that will leave you feeling like a true Niçois.
Le Plongeoir Address: 60 Bd Franck Pilatte, 06300 Nice, France
Acchiardo Address: 5 Rue Rossetti, 06300 Nice, France
Nice offers so much more than just its famous beaches and promenades. By stepping off the beaten path, you can experience the city like a local – from enjoying traditional street food and exploring historic neighborhoods to relaxing at hidden beaches and savoring authentic Niçoise cuisine. Whether you're visiting for a few days or an extended stay, these local experiences will allow you to immerse yourself in the true spirit of Nice, creating memories that go beyond the usual tourist attractions.
