Nice Holidays

Occupying a prime position on the seriously-swish Cote d’Azur, this French fancy ticks all the boxes for an upmarket break. City slickers will love the ornate architecture and outstanding museums (17 at last count!) - and for those simply seeking sun, sea and sand, there’s miles of gorgeous beaches just waiting to be discovered.

Beaches
At over 4.5km long, Nice’s main stretch of sand is a magnet for sunseekers, with both public and private sections spread around the bay. To get your beach fix for free, head to Plage de Carras or Plage Centennaire - perched just outside the Old Town, they’re perfectly placed for a mid-sightseeing sunbathe. To up the style stakes, private options include Opéra Plage, Castel Plage and Plage Sporting - expect to pay around €15-€20 per person.

Top tip
Set towards the city’s southern tip, Coco Beach is a real hidden gem. Nestled away from the tourist trails, its pristine sands and azure waters have long been a well-kept local secret. Snorkellers and swimmers alike adore the crystal-clear shoreline - and to indulge your wanderlust even more, ferries to Corsica set sail just a mile up the coast.

Food & Drink
Nice’s cuisine is all about classic French flavours, with the famous Niçoise salad the definitive home-grown delicacy. Socca, a crispy chickpea pancake, is also a moreish afternoon treat - and to wash it all down, there’s countless fine wines to choose from, with fruity reds and rosés proving the perfect partners for français fare. Plus, dairy queens will fall in love with the huge range of artisan cheeses - try the fromagerie on Rue de France for a sample or six.

Culture
The Niçoise lifestyle is pretty laid-back, making it perfect for a break from a busy schedule. The cool-as-a-cucumber Jazz Festival, held each July, is a great place to pair the chilled-out vibes with world-class music, with artists such as Gregory Porter and Rag ‘n’ Bone Man gracing the stage. To pick up the pace, the Nice Carnival is also a must - held in February/March, its technicolour costumes and street parades offer the ultimate city celebration.

Nightlife
Nice’s nightlife scene blends classic and contemporary vibes, with relaxed live music joints rubbing shoulders with super-cool cocktail bars. To dive in to the local music scene, check out Shapko, which showcases a fabulous fusion of jazz, soul and reggae. Puzzle Bar also houses a great choice of craft cocktails - and art lovers will be right at home at the opulent Opera de Nice, which hosts a full calendar of classical concerts and ballets.

Important Information
Flight Time: Two hours
Time Difference: +1hr during the winter, none during the summer
Currency: Euro
Official Language: French

Vaccination: For all up to date healthcare requirements, please check with your doctor before booking your holiday.

Visa: British Passport holders don’t need a visa to visit Nice. Holders of other passports are advised to check with their national embassy for any visa requirements.