Nice Itinerary 14 Days: A Riviera Dream from Old Town Charm to Coastal Bliss (2026)

Welcome to Nice! After arriving at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) and checking into your accommodation, your first taste of the city will be a leisurely stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais. This legendary beachfront promenade offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and is perfect for soaking in the Riviera atmosphere. You can rent a blue bike or simply walk, enjoying the sea breeze and watching the world go by. End your day with a delicious dinner at a restaurant with sea views, savoring fresh local seafood.

Dive into the heart of Nice today with a full exploration of Vieux Nice, the charming Old Town. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, admire the colorful Baroque architecture, and discover hidden squares. Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate and browse the unique boutiques. Afterwards, make your way to Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views of Nice, the Baie des Anges, and the port. You can take the elevator or climb the stairs for a rewarding vista, including the famous waterfall. Enjoy lunch in Old Town at a traditional Niçois restaurant.

Dedicate today to Nice's artistic and historical side. Begin by heading to the Cimiez district, a beautiful residential area known for its Roman ruins and museums. Visit the Musée National Marc Chagall, home to a stunning collection of the artist's biblical message series. Afterwards, explore the Roman Arena and Baths of Cimiez, and stroll through the beautiful Cimiez Monastery Gardens, offering tranquil views. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens or find a local cafe. In the afternoon, return to the city center for some leisurely shopping or a visit to another museum like the Musée Matisse.

Embark on a scenic day trip to the picturesque towns of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, easily accessible by bus or train. Start in Villefranche-sur-Mer, renowned for its charming old town, colorful harbor, and the stunning Chapelle Saint-Pierre, decorated by Jean Cocteau. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the elegant peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and visit the magnificent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Explore its opulent rooms and seven themed gardens, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. Return to Nice in the late afternoon.

Start your day early at the famous Cours Saleya Market, a vibrant sensory experience. Depending on the day, you'll find either the renowned flower market (every day except Monday) or a bustling antique market (Mondays). Sample local produce, pick up some souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere. After exploring the market, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes lining the square. In the afternoon, head towards Port Lympia, Nice's picturesque port, and admire the luxury yachts and traditional fishing boats. You can also walk up to the lighthouse for a different perspective of the city.

Today, venture further east along the coast for an unforgettable day trip. Begin with the medieval hilltop village of Eze, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, visit the exotic garden at the top for incredible panoramic views, and explore artisan shops. After Eze, continue to the glamorous principality of Monaco. Explore Monaco-Ville (the 'Rock'), visit the Prince's Palace, the Monaco Cathedral, and the Oceanographic Museum. Witness the luxury of Monte Carlo, including its famous casino and harbor. Enjoy dinner in Monaco or return to Nice.

After a week of exploration, dedicate today to pure relaxation. Nice's pebbled beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun and taking a refreshing dip in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean. Rent a sun lounger and umbrella at one of the private beach clubs, or find a spot on the public beach. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant, perhaps indulging in some fresh seafood or a classic Salade Niçoise. Spend the afternoon swimming, reading, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the waves. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner.

Journey inland today to discover the 'perfume capital of the world,' Grasse. Take a guided tour of a historic perfumery like Fragonard, Molinard, or Galimard, learning about the art of perfume making and even creating your own scent. Afterwards, head to the enchanting medieval hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. This artistic haven is famous for its art galleries, cobblestone streets, and stunning views. Visit the Fondation Maeght, a renowned modern art museum, or simply wander and admire the local crafts. Enjoy a traditional Provençal lunch in one of the village's charming restaurants.

Explore the modern heart of Nice today, starting with the Promenade du Paillon. This urban park, built over the buried Paillon river, features beautiful green spaces, water jets, and a large mirror of water, perfect for families and relaxation. Stroll through the park towards Place Masséna, Nice's main square, characterized by its red buildings, black and white checkered paving, and the 'Conversation à Nice' statues. Enjoy some retail therapy along Avenue Jean Médecin, Nice's main shopping street, or explore the Galeries Lafayette. End your day with a lovely dinner in the city center.

Take a train west along the coast to the charming towns of Antibes and Juan-les-Pins. Antibes boasts a beautiful Old Town, a bustling Provençal market, and the impressive Fort Carré. Don't miss the Picasso Museum, housed in the Château Grimaldi, where Picasso worked in 1946. Afterwards, stroll along the Billionaires' Quay in Port Vauban, admiring the superyachts. Continue to Juan-les-Pins, known for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant and spend some time relaxing on the sand before heading back to Nice.

Experience the glamour of Cannes, famous for its film festival and luxurious atmosphere. Walk along the legendary La Croisette boulevard, admire the Palais des Festivals, and try to spot celebrity handprints. Explore the charming Le Suquet, Cannes' old town, offering panoramic views. In the afternoon, take a short ferry ride to Île Sainte-Marguerite, one of the Lérins Islands. Explore the island's natural beauty, visit the Fort Royal, and uncover the legend of the Man in the Iron Mask. Enjoy a picnic on the island or dine at a local restaurant in Cannes before returning to Nice.

Immerse yourself in Nice's culinary scene today. Start with a food tour of Vieux Nice, sampling local specialties like Socca, Pissaladière, and Niçois olives. In the afternoon, participate in a traditional Niçois cooking class. Learn to prepare classic dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner. This hands-on experience is a fantastic way to delve deeper into the region's gastronomic heritage. Alternatively, if a cooking class isn't for you, spend the afternoon exploring areas you haven't seen or revisiting a favorite spot.

Head east for a day trip to Menton, known as the 'Pearl of France' and famous for its lemon festival. Explore its colorful Old Town, perched on a hillside, and visit the beautiful Basilique Saint-Michel Archange. Stroll through the stunning gardens, such as the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh, which showcase exotic plants. Enjoy lunch in Menton, perhaps trying some of its renowned lemon-infused dishes. If time permits, you can even take a short bus ride or walk across the border to Ventimiglia, Italy, for a taste of Italian culture and markets, before returning to Nice.

Enjoy your final morning in Nice. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in Old Town or along Avenue Jean Médecin. Grab a final coffee and croissant at a local café, savoring the Niçois atmosphere one last time. If you have a later flight, perhaps revisit your favorite spot for a final view of the Mediterranean. Head to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) for your departure, filled with wonderful memories of your two-week adventure on the French Riviera.