Nice is a city in the south of France located in the French Riviera on the Mediterranean coast. The city is one of the most beautiful in the whole of Europe, and is aptly named Nice la Belle (Nice The beautiful). Since centuries, Nice is one of France’s most popular destinations, much loved because of its famous waterfront view on the Promenade des Anglais (Walkway of the English). It is also one of Europe’s most ethnically diverse port cities. Nice is the second most visited city in France, after Paris.
History
The first settlements in Nice date to about 400,000 years back. Evidence of Nice’s origin can be found in the Gallo – Roman ruins in Cimiez. Nice was successively part of the Italian Duchy of Savoia and the Kingdom of Sardinia until it was surrendered to France in 1860. The ancient language of Nissart is not much used, as everybody uses French.
Places to See
Colline du Chateau
The Collin du Chateau is a ruined castle that overlooks the Baie des Anges and harbor and offers a breathtaking view of Nice. There is an elevator that can take you three fourths of the way up the ruined castle, at 90 meters above Nice, the view is pretty good. The castle remains open until sunset.
Museums
Nice has several excellent museums, all well worth a visit.
The Museum of Asian Art
The Museum of Asian Art, located just across the airport street, houses art from India, China and other Asian countries. Entry is free of charge.
Parc Phoenix
The Parc Phoenix is located in the Promenade des Anglais and is open everyday between 9 . 30 a m to 7 . 30 p m during the period between April and September. It houses more than 2 500 plants in the botanical gardens. Many animal species are also to be seen. Entry fee is about 2 – 3 Euros.
Musee Chagall
The Musee Chagall showcases works by Chagall, the famous French artist, and also has splendid stained glass windows designed by him. Entry fee is about 8 – 9 euros.
Musee Matisse
The Musee Matinee has a vast collection of paintings and sculptures housed in the 17th century Genoese Villa. Entry is free of cost.
Musee et Site Alcheologiques de Cimiez
The Musee et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez is situated next to Musee Matinee. It is open daily from 10 a m to 6 p m except for Tuesdays. The Museum includes the remnants of Gallo – Roman settlement in Cimiez, and a museum featuring documents on the life and times in the Gallo – Roman era. A majority of these exhibits are not in English, still its is worth a visit. There are special activities meant for children included. There is no charge for entry, but on payment of 3 euros you will get a guided tour of the premises.
Other
Spectacular views of Nice are to be had at Mount Boron. The ruined old Fort there offers splendid vistas over the city of Nice to the mountains and over Villefranche and Cap Ferat.
The Village Eze is a beautiful location on the way to Monaco. It is located atop a small mountain. In Eze, attractions include a perfume factory (free entry) and a beautiful cactus garden.
La Turbie and the Grande Corniche are excellent trails for hiking, and offers amazing views of the Riviera.
