Introduction to Nice

The capital of France's glorious Riviera, Nice gleams with a suave sophistication while managing to stay laid-back. Terracotta-clad buildings crowd the narrow streets of the Vieille Ville (Old Town) providing welcome shade for the patrons of the antique shops and bistros nestled at their feet. If you can resist the lure of the cool turquoise waters in the Baie des Anges, discover magnificent ceilings and stuccoes that bewitch the eye in the Baroque Palais Lascaris.

Things to Do

Belle Epoque mansions lord over the unceasing procession of fashionistas, rollerbladers and beachgoers on the seafront promenade des Anglais. Admire the gracious palm-lined boulevard from the top of Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill), the perfect spot to see the bay sweep round to the distant Cap d'Antibes. Relaxing olive shaded grounds surround the Italianate Musée Matisse. Step inside to see works like La Nymphe dans le forêt, donated by the artist to mark his affection for his adopted home.

Shopping

Fur-coated dames lead their diamante-collared dogs as they browse along rue Paradis, home to France's great fashion houses such as Chanel and Sonia Rykiel. Colorful stalls fill open-air Cours Saleya, where you can lose yourself in a dazzling kaleidoscope of flowers or dig out a bargain at the famous antique market. Stuff your suitcase full of sweet goodies and Provençal signature treats, fruits confits, from Confiserie Auer, one of the oldest chocolatiers in Nice.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Once the market in Cours Saleya is cleared, tables and chairs from the surrounding bars form an unruly patchwork, filling the square with lively chatter. Start the evening here, as the locals do, and watch street performers dazzle with acrobatic escapades. Sip an aperitif with locals at La Civette and then listen to music fill the night air at the magnificent Opéra de Nice. The roulette ball clatters in the art deco hotel Casinos on the waterfront.

Restaurants and Dining

Barrels of basil-flavored olive oil squat in the doorways of the Old Town's pavement bistros, betraying Nice's Italian heritage. Even with this influence, French cuisine still reigns, and local favorites include Provençal lamb stuffed with fragrant garlic and rosemary or a salty Salad Niçoise, which marries local olives and anchovies with Dijon vinaigrette. Treat yourself to award-winning cuisine on the seafront in the world famous, pink-domed Hotel Negresco, the launching pad for many top chefs.