Start with the unmissable Cours Saleya
Every first-time visitor should make their first stop at Cours Saleya. This huge pedestrian plaza is famous for its flower market and stalls selling local produce.
- The Flower Market: Ranked among France's most exceptional markets, it brings color to the city from Tuesday to Sunday.
- The Flea Market: On Mondays, antique dealers take over the premises, much to the delight of bargain hunters.
It's the perfect place to soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere before venturing into the narrower streets.
Get lost (on purpose) in the narrow streets
The best way to visit Old Nice is to put away your GPS. The neighborhood is a dense network of narrow streets where Baroque architecture is on full display.
As you look up, you'll admire the warm-colored facades and typical shutters that protect from the sun. Don't miss Place Rossetti, where the majestic Sainte-Réparate Cathedral stands. It's the spiritual and social heart of the neighborhood, ideal for a refreshing break.
Sample the cuisine of Old Nice
You can't discover Old Nice without sampling its street food. Nice's cuisine is also a candidate for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status.
For beginners, here are three specialties you absolutely must try:
- Socca: A large flatbread made from chickpea flour, baked in a wood-fired oven. Best enjoyed hot and generously seasoned with pepper.
- La Pissaladière: A tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and Cailletier olives.
- Pan Bagnat: The quintessential local sandwich, a true Niçoise salad in a round bread rubbed with garlic and generously drizzled with olive oil.
Tip: For dessert, head to the master ice cream makers at Place Rossetti to try unusual flavors such as lavender or basil.
Catch your breath at Castle Hill
Although technically located just on the edge of the district, the Castle Hill is a must-see for anyone visiting Old Nice.
After wandering through the dark streets, climb up on foot if you're feeling brave, or take the free elevator to admire the panoramic view. On one side, you'll see Lympia Port and its colorful boats; on the other, the Baie des Anges and the red rooftops of Old Nice. This is where you'll take your best photos.
Practical tips for your first visit
To ensure your experience is a success, here are some practical tips:
- Comfortable shoes: The cobblestones are old and sometimes slippery. Forget about heels!
- Opening hours: It is best to visit the market early in the morning (before 10 a.m.) or at the end of the day to enjoy the cool weather and lively atmosphere of the restaurants.
- Artisan shopping: Old Nice is full of artists' studios and olive oil shops (such as the famous Maison Nicolas Alziari).
Nice is a destination that can be enjoyed all year round. Thanks to its mild climate and cultural richness, the city offers an enchanting getaway just a few hours' flight from your region. By choosing regional airlines, you save precious time to enjoy more of the French Riviera.
Whether you are passionate about history, a food lover, or simply seeking sunshine, visiting Old Nice is a must-see destination on any trip to the south of France.
To learn more about Nice:
- Discover Nice: 7 fun and cultural activities for the whole family
- Nice by night: 7 places to enjoy the city's nightlife
- The best beaches in and around Nice for relaxing in the sun
- The 5 best trails around Nice for nature adventures
- 4 museums in Nice for an artistic and historical journey
Photo Freepik