Nice Itinerary 10 Days: Riviera Charms & Coastal Wonders (2026)

Upon arrival at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), transfer to your accommodation, settle in, and then head straight to the enchanting Vieux Nice (Old Town). Spend the afternoon getting lost in its labyrinthine streets, admiring baroque churches, and browsing artisan shops. Don't miss the Cours Saleya flower market, a sensory delight with its vibrant blooms and local produce. As evening approaches, choose one of the many charming restaurants for your first taste of Niçoise cuisine.

Start your day with a leisurely stroll or cycle along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, enjoying the panoramic views of the Baie des Anges. Afterwards, make your way to Castle Hill (Colline du Château), either by elevator or by climbing the steps. From the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Nice's coastline, the Old Town, and the port. Explore the park, the waterfall, and the ruins of the old castle. In the afternoon, relax on the pebble beach or enjoy a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

Dedicate today to Nice's rich artistic heritage. Head to the Cimiez neighborhood, home to two of the city's most important museums. Begin with the Matisse Museum, housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa, showcasing a significant collection of Henri Matisse's works. Afterward, visit the Marc Chagall National Museum, which features the artist's biblical message series and other masterpieces. The peaceful gardens surrounding these museums offer a lovely respite between visits. Conclude your day with a walk through the beautiful Arènes de Cimiez, ancient Roman ruins.

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to two iconic Riviera destinations. Start with the medieval hilltop village of Eze, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. Explore its narrow, winding streets, visit the exotic garden (Jardin Exotique) for stunning panoramic views, and browse local artisan shops. In the afternoon, continue to the glamorous principality of Monaco. Witness the changing of the guard at the Prince's Palace, explore the opulent Monte Carlo Casino, and stroll through the harbor filled with luxury yachts. Return to Nice in the evening.

Explore the vibrant Port Lympia area, admiring the colorful Ligurian-style buildings and the impressive yachts. You can take a boat tour from here or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. Afterward, head towards Mont Boron. This verdant hill offers some of the most spectacular views of Nice, the Baie des Anges, and the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula. Enjoy a hike through the Parc du Mont Boron and discover Fort du Mont Alban. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. Have dinner in the port area, known for its seafood restaurants.

Today's day trip takes you west along the coast. Begin in Antibes, a charming town known for its old town, the Picasso Museum (housed in the Château Grimaldi), and its impressive superyacht marina, Port Vauban. Walk along the ramparts for beautiful sea views. In the afternoon, continue to Cannes, synonymous with the international film festival. Stroll along La Croisette boulevard, see the Palais des Festivals, and explore the charming Le Suquet (Old Town) for panoramic views. Enjoy the chic atmosphere before returning to Nice.

After several busy days of exploration, take some time to relax and soak in the local Nice atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely morning at one of Nice's beautiful beaches, perhaps trying out a private beach club for a touch of luxury. In the afternoon, delve deeper into Nice's culinary scene. Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Niçoise dishes, or embark on a food tour to sample local specialties like socca, pissaladière, and salade niçoise. Spend the evening enjoying a delicious meal at a local bistro.

Venture inland today to discover two enchanting medieval villages. Start with Saint-Paul-de-Vence, one of the oldest and most beautiful fortified villages in the French Riviera, famous for its art galleries and studios. Wander through its cobbled streets, visit the Fondation Maeght for modern art, and enjoy the stunning views. Afterwards, head to the nearby town of Vence, known for its historic old town and the Chapelle du Rosaire (Matisse Chapel), a masterpiece designed by Henri Matisse himself. These villages offer a glimpse into the artistic soul of the region.

Explore the picturesque bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer, often considered one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. Wander through its colorful old town, visit the Chapelle Saint-Pierre decorated by Jean Cocteau, and enjoy lunch by the waterfront. In the afternoon, take a scenic walk or bus ride to the exclusive peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Visit the magnificent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its stunning themed gardens, a true jewel of the Riviera. Enjoy the opulent beauty and breathtaking sea views before heading back to Nice.

Enjoy a final French breakfast and take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Nice. You might want to revisit a favorite spot in the Old Town, pick up some local lavender products, or grab a final taste of socca. Depending on your flight schedule, you could visit a museum you missed or simply enjoy a coffee on a terrace, soaking in the last moments of your Riviera adventure. Transfer to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) for your departure, filled with wonderful memories of your 10 days in Nice.