Content Summary
Discover Nice in 3 perfect days: azure beaches, charming old town, world-class art, and glamorous day trips. Complete Riviera itinerary with costs and insider tips.
Key Takeaways
- Day 1 explores Nice's historic heart in Vieux Nice and panoramic Castle Hill (all free)
- Day 2 combines art museums and beach time along the Promenade des Anglais (€10-20)
- Day 3 ventures to Monaco or hilltop villages for Riviera glamour (€20-30 transport)
- Stay in Vieux Nice for atmosphere or near Promenade des Anglais for beach access
- September-October offers warm sea temperatures with fewer tourists
- Total 3-day budget: €150-246 (budget), €300-573 (mid-range), €600+ (luxury) per person
Common Questions
What is the perfect 3-day itinerary for Nice?
Spend Day 1 exploring Vieux Nice and Castle Hill with stunning views, Day 2 discovering museums and the legendary Promenade des Anglais beaches, and Day 3 on a glamorous day trip to Monaco or charming Èze village. Budget €50-82 per day for a mix of free attractions and Riviera experiences.
When is the best time to visit Nice?
Spring and autumn generally offer the best weather for Nice.
Practical Information
- Duration
- 3 days
- Budget Range
- EUR 150 - 600
- Best Time to Visit
- Spring/Autumn
- Difficulty Level
- Easy
Location Context
3 Days in Nice 2025: The Perfect French Riviera Itinerary
Discover Nice in 3 perfect days: azure beaches, charming old town, world-class art, and glamorous day trips. Complete Riviera itinerary with costs and insider tips.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for Nice, France?
Spend Day 1 exploring Vieux Nice and Castle Hill with stunning views, Day 2 discovering museums and the legendary Promenade des Anglais beaches, and Day 3 on a glamorous day trip to Monaco or charming Èze village. Budget €50-82 per day for a mix of free attractions and Riviera experiences.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in Nice cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in Nice?
- • Is 3 days enough for Nice?
Your 3-Day Nice Adventure
TL;DR: Explore Nice's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 21 attractions with a budget of €€150-€600 per person.
- 1 Day 1 explores Nice's historic heart in Vieux Nice and panoramic Castle Hill (all free)
- 2 Day 2 combines art museums and beach time along the Promenade des Anglais (€10-20)
- 3 Day 3 ventures to Monaco or hilltop villages for Riviera glamour (€20-30 transport)
- 4 Stay in Vieux Nice for atmosphere or near Promenade des Anglais for beach access
- 5 September-October offers warm sea temperatures with fewer tourists
- 6 Total 3-day budget: €150-246 (budget), €300-573 (mid-range), €600+ (luxury) per person
Nice offers an incredible 3-day journey through the French Riviera's most elegant city, where Belle Époque grandeur meets Mediterranean charm. From the iconic Promenade des Anglais stretching along azure waters to the winding streets of colorful Vieux Nice, this carefully crafted itinerary balances glamorous beach life with authentic Niçois culture. With daily costs ranging from €50 to €200+ per person, Nice provides Riviera sophistication at more accessible prices than Monaco or Cannes. The best time to visit is September-October when warm seas meet perfect weather without summer crowds. This itinerary covers approximately 25 kilometers of exploration, perfectly paced for savoring the art de vivre that makes Nice the Queen of the Riviera.
Your 3-Day Nice Itinerary
Day 1: Old Town Charm & Panoramic Views
History & Local Life
Day 1
Immerse yourself in Nice's colorful past, from baroque churches and bustling markets to the panoramic heights of Castle Hill
Total Cost
EUR50-150
Walking Distance
8 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 8 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Cours Saleya Market
Start at Nice's most famous market with flowers, produce, and local specialties. Tuesday-Sunday features food and flowers, Monday hosts antiques. The sensory explosion of colors and aromas epitomizes Provence. Check market schedules for all Nice markets.
💡 Tip: Arrive before 10 AM for best selection. Try socca (chickpea pancake) from Chez Thérésa - locals' favorite
Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Wander the narrow streets of the old town with its ochre and terracotta buildings, baroque churches, and hidden squares. Each turn reveals artisan shops, gelaterias, and local life unchanged for centuries. Download heritage trail maps for guided exploration.
💡 Tip: Get lost intentionally - the best discoveries are unplanned. Rue Droite has the grandest palaces
Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
Visit Nice's baroque cathedral with its distinctive tiled dome. The interior features elaborate baroque decoration and beautiful frescoes depicting the life of the city's patron saint
💡 Tip: Free entry. The dome is best photographed from Place Rossetti. Interior closes 12-2 PM
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
La Petite Maison • Traditional Niçois
💰 EUR20-35 per person
Must try: Petits farcis niçois, Ratatouille, Salade niçoise (the original!)
📝 Book ahead or arrive at 12 PM
Budget option: Chez Palmyre for €12-18 set menus
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Climb or take the elevator to this historic hill for the best views in Nice. Once a medieval fortress, now a park with waterfalls, gardens, and 360° panoramas over the Bay of Angels
💡 Tip: Free elevator from Rue des Ponchettes or climb the stairs (good workout!). Bring water
Port Lympia
Descend to Nice's colorful port area with its Venetian-style buildings, luxury yachts, and authentic maritime atmosphere. Stop for an ice cream while watching the boats
💡 Tip: Fenocchio has 94 flavors including lavender and black olive. €3 per scoop
Place Garibaldi
Admire this grand neoclassical square with its ochre arcades and statue of Nice's famous son, Giuseppe Garibaldi. Perfect for an afternoon coffee break
💡 Tip: Café de Turin famous for seafood platters if you're hungry again
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Promenade du Paillon
Stroll through this modern linear park connecting old town to the new. Water features, playgrounds, and art installations create a refreshing urban oasis
💡 Tip: Water mirror is magical at sunset. Kids love the whale sculptures
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Le Chantecler (Hotel Negresco) • Michelin-starred French
💰 EUR80-150 per person
Must try: Truffle menu (in season), Local sea bass, Soufflé
Opulent Regency dining room
🌙 Evening Options
- • Opera de Nice - check program, €20-80
- • Ma Nolan's Irish Pub for live music
- • Evening stroll on Promenade des Anglais
🚇 Getting Around
start Point: Place Masséna or Old Town
end Point: Promenade des Anglais area
public Transport: Tram Line 1, Bus network extensive
day Pass: €10 for 24-hour all transport
walking Tips: Old town has cobblestones, Castle Hill has stairs
🏨 Where to Stay: Stay in Vieux Nice for charm and dining, or Musicians Quarter for quieter local vibe. Budget: Villa Saint Exupéry €35-60, Mid-range: Hotel Villa Victoria €120-200
Day 2: Art, Beaches & Belle Époque Glamour
Culture & Coastline
Day 2
Experience Nice's artistic heritage and beach culture, from world-class museums to the legendary Promenade des Anglais
Total Cost
EUR50-180
Walking Distance
10 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 10 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Musée Marc Chagall
Explore the world's largest collection of Chagall works in a building he helped design. The Biblical Message series and stunning stained-glass windows create a spiritual art experience
💡 Tip: Audio guide included. Garden café perfect for reflection. Less crowded than Matisse Museum. Reserve tickets online for guaranteed entry.
Russian Orthodox Cathedral
Visit this stunning Byzantine-style cathedral with its colorful onion domes, the largest Orthodox church outside Russia. The interior glitters with icons and gold
💡 Tip: Modest dress required. Beautiful when sunlight hits the domes (late morning)
Walk through Cimiez
Stroll through this elegant hilltop neighborhood with Belle Époque villas, Roman ruins, and peaceful gardens. The former winter resort of European aristocracy
💡 Tip: Detour through Monastery gardens for city views. Free Roman arena to explore
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
La Merenda • No-frills Niçois excellence
💰 EUR18-30 per person
Must try: Pasta with pistou, Stuffed sardines, Lemon tart
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Promenade des Anglais
Walk or cycle the legendary 7km seafront promenade. From Belle Époque palaces to beach clubs, this is the Riviera's most famous stretch. Blue chairs (free) are perfect for people-watching. Book beachfront accommodation for unbeatable Promenade access.
💡 Tip: Rent bikes (€1/30min) from Vélo Bleu stations. West direction less crowded
Beach Time
Experience Nice's famous pebble beaches. Choose between free public beaches or rent a lounger at a private beach club with restaurant service
💡 Tip: Bring water shoes for pebbles. Castel Plage is iconic for cliff jumping. Sun beds €15-25
Alternative: Musée Masséna
If museums over beaches, explore Nice's history in this beautiful villa with Belle Époque interiors, Napoleon memorabilia, and carnival costumes
💡 Tip: Free entry! Gardens alone worth the visit. Air-conditioned refuge from heat
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Place Masséna
Nice's main square transforms at dusk with illuminated sculptures and fountains. The seven resin figures on poles change color, creating a magical atmosphere
💡 Tip: Street performers often here. Galeries Lafayette rooftop has free views
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Olive et Artichaut • Creative vegetarian/vegan
💰 EUR25-40 per person
Must try: Seasonal tasting menu, Creative risottos, Chocolate avocado mousse
Intimate and innovative
🚇 Getting Around
between Museums: Bus 5 connects Chagall to city center
beach Access: All beaches accessible from Promenade
evening Transport: Trams run until midnight
🏨 Where to Stay: Promenade des Anglais hotels offer sea views but cost more. New Town (Liberation area) provides better value with easy tram access
Day 3: Riviera Glamour: Monaco or Medieval Villages
Riviera Excursion
Day 3
Venture beyond Nice to experience the French Riviera's legendary destinations - choose between Monaco's glitz or charming hilltop villages
Total Cost
EUR50-200
Walking Distance
8 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 8 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Monaco Day Trip (Option A)
Take the train to Monaco for a taste of millionaire's playground. Visit the Prince's Palace, watch the changing of guard, explore Monte Carlo Casino (even if just the lobby), and soak in the yacht-filled harbor
💡 Tip: Train €8.60 return, every 30 min. Palace €10, Casino free to enter (dress code). Bring passport
Èze Village (Option B)
Visit this spectacular medieval village perched 427m above the sea. Cobblestone streets wind past art galleries, boutiques, and panoramic viewpoints. The exotic garden at the top offers unrivaled coastal views
💡 Tip: Bus 82 from Nice €1.50 each way. Wear good shoes - very steep! Morning light best
Alternative: Antibes (Option C)
Train to charming Antibes with its ramparts, Picasso Museum in a seaside castle, and one of the Riviera's best markets. More authentic and less touristy than other options
💡 Tip: Train €5.80 return. Market daily except Monday. Picasso Museum €8
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Café de la Place (Èze) • Provençal with a view
💰 EUR25-40 per person
Must try: Goat cheese salad, Ratatouille, Local rosé
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Monaco Continued
Continue exploring Monaco: stroll through the Japanese Garden (free), window shop in Monte Carlo, or try your luck at the Casino. The Oceanographic Museum (€19) is world-class if you prefer
💡 Tip: Café de Paris great for people watching. Casino requires proper attire after 2 PM
Coastal Return via Villefranche
Stop at Villefranche-sur-Mer on return journey. This colorful fishing village has a beautiful waterfront, citadel, and beaches. Jean Cocteau decorated the chapel
💡 Tip: 5 minutes from Nice by train. Beach more sandy than Nice. Cocteau Chapel €3
Cap Ferrat Coastal Walk
For hikers, the coastal path around billionaire's peninsula Cap Ferrat offers spectacular views and hidden coves. Access from Villefranche or Beaulieu
💡 Tip: Free trail, bring water. Can swim at secret beaches. 1-3 hour options
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 4+ hours
Return to Nice - Sunset Beach
Back in Nice, catch the sunset from the beach. The private beach restaurants stay open late and offer loungers for sunset aperitifs
💡 Tip: Beau Rivage beach has the classic view. Happy hour 5-7 PM at beach bars
🏨 Where to Stay: For airport access, stay near Promenade des Anglais with direct tram. Liberation area also convenient for transport links
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in Nice, excluding accommodation. All prices in EUR for 2025. Prices 30-50% higher than other French cities but lower than Monaco.
Budget Traveler
💰€50-82 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Picnic lunches from markets save significantly
- • Many museums free for EU under 26
- • Beach days cost only food
- • Happy hours 5-7 PM widespread
3-Day Total
€150-246
Attractions
€30-60 total
Meals
€75-105 total
Transport
€30-45 (includes day trips)
Extras
€15-36 (beach, snacks)
Mid-Range
💎€100-191 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Lunch formulas at good restaurants €20-25
- • Beach club day passes better than hourly
- • Book restaurants for waterfront tables
- • Consider guided tours for context
3-Day Total
€300-573
Attractions
€75-120 total
Meals
€135-210 total
Transport
€45-75
Extras
€45-168 (shopping, beach clubs)
Luxury
👑€200+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Michelin dining worth it in Nice
- • Private beach clubs full service
- • Casino nights in Monaco
- • Helicopter tours available
3-Day Total
€600+
Attractions
€120-240
Meals
€240+
Transport
€90-150
Extras
€150+ (casino, shopping)
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Cours Saleya market for affordable quality lunch €8-12
Free museums include Musée Masséna and Musée d'Art Moderne
Public beaches free - bring your own mat
Monaco trip possible for just train fare €8.60
Supermarket rosé and beach picnic very Niçois
Walking covers most attractions in compact center
✨ Worth the Splurge
Beach club day with lunch - full Riviera experience €40-60
Le Chantecler Michelin dining - unforgettable €100+
Private boat tour along coast - see hidden coves €80-150
Monaco helicopter transfer - ultimate arrival €150
Cooking class with market tour - take Nice home €85
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit
September-October ideal with warm sea (22°C), fewer crowds, perfect weather. May-June also excellent. July-August packed and pricey. Winter mild (12-17°C) but some beach clubs close. Avoid August if possible.
Getting Around
Compact center very walkable. Tram Line 1 connects airport-center-port. Bus network extensive - download Lignes d'Azur app. Day pass €10, airport tram €1.50. Vélo Bleu bikes great for Promenade.
Beach Essentials
Beaches are pebbles, not sand - water shoes essential (€5-10 at beach shops). Free public beaches alternate with private clubs. Jellyfish rare but check flags. Topless sunbathing common and accepted.
Local Customs
Niçois proud of their identity - not just French but Nissart culture. Shops close 12-2 PM except tourist areas. Dinner from 7:30 PM. Casual dress OK but Riviera appreciates style.
Money Matters
Expect Riviera prices - 30-50% above Paris. Many restaurants cash only. Tipping modest - round up or 5-10%. Beach and market vendors often cash only. ATMs plentiful.
Language Tips
Tourist areas English-friendly but French appreciated. 'Bonjour' essential entering shops. Local dialect Nissart still spoken - 'Bouòna sera' for good evening. Italian influence evident.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and travel style
Art & Museum Lovers
- ✓ Add Musée Matisse and MAMAC (Day 2)
- ✓ Include Villa Ephrussi on Cap Ferrat
- ✓ Maeght Foundation in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
- ✓ Cocteau Museum in Menton
Additional cost: €30-40 for extra museums
Beach & Relaxation
- ✓ Full beach club day with spa (Day 2)
- ✓ Boat trip to Lérins Islands from Cannes
- ✓ Cap d'Antibes coastal walk and swimming
- ✓ Menton for sandier beaches
Additional cost: €50-100 for beach clubs/boats
Food & Wine Focus
- ✓ Morning cooking class (Day 1) €85
- ✓ Wine tasting in Bellet vineyards
- ✓ Food tour of Vieux Nice €65
- ✓ Michelin restaurant crawl
Additional cost: €80-150 for culinary experiences
Active & Adventure
- ✓ Bike the Promenade to Antibes
- ✓ Hike Mont Boron coastal trail
- ✓ Paddleboard or kayak rental
- ✓ Via ferrata in the backcountry
Additional cost: €25-60 for equipment/guides
Luxury & Glamour
- ✓ Helicopter to Monaco (Day 3)
- ✓ Private yacht charter half-day
- ✓ Casino night in Monte Carlo
- ✓ Shopping on Rue Paradis
Additional cost: €200+ for luxury experiences
Family with Kids
- ✓ Phoenix Park with zoo (Day 2)
- ✓ Marineland Antibes day trip
- ✓ Beach day with water sports
- ✓ Kid-friendly museums with workshops
Savings: €20-30 with family discounts
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
spring
March-May • 15-20°C, occasional rain
Highlights:
- • Flowers everywhere
- • Easter traditions
- • Perfect hiking weather
Events:
- • Nice Carnival (February/March)
- • Tennis Open
- • Rose Festival
summer
June-August • 25-30°C, hot and sunny
Highlights:
- • Beach season peak
- • Festival season
- • Long daylight
- • Warm sea
Events:
- • Nice Jazz Festival
- • Fireworks displays
- • Beach concerts
fall
September-November • 18-24°C, perfect conditions
Highlights:
- • Warm sea
- • Fewer tourists
- • Golden light
- • Local life returns
Events:
- • Heritage Days
- • Wine harvest
- • Marathon des Alpes-Maritimes
winter
December-February • 8-15°C, mild but variable
Highlights:
- • Christmas markets
- • Mimosa blooms
- • Museum season
- • Carnival prep
Events:
- • Christmas village
- • Carnival preparations
- • Menton Lemon Festival
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in Nice
Three days allows you to see Nice's highlights including Old Town, beaches, museums, and a day trip to Monaco or villages. You'll capture the Riviera essence while maintaining a relaxed pace. For deeper exploration and more day trips, 4-5 days ideal.
Vieux Nice offers the most charm with restaurants and atmosphere at your doorstep. Promenade des Anglais provides beach access and sea views but costs more. Musicians Quarter gives authentic local life. Budget: €35-60 hostels, Mid-range: €100-180 hotels.
Budget €150-246 for basic costs (€50-82/day), €300-573 for comfortable travel (€100-191/day), or €600+ for luxury (€200+/day). This covers meals, attractions, and transport but excludes accommodation. Nice is pricier than most French cities.
Book hotels 2-3 months ahead for summer, 1 month other seasons. Reserve Michelin restaurants 1-2 weeks ahead. Museums rarely sell out. Day trip tours can be booked 2-3 days ahead. Beach clubs same-day OK except July-August weekends.
The pass (€28-56) includes some museums and tours but calculate carefully - many Nice attractions are free. Worth it if doing multiple paid activities, otherwise pay individually. Transport passes better value for most visitors.
Nice enjoys 300+ sunny days annually. September-October perfect with warm sea and fewer crowds. May-June also ideal. July-August hot and packed. Winter mild (12-17°C) but variable. Rain most likely November and March.
Ready for Your Nice Adventure?
Continue Planning Your Nice Trip
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