This is the start of a short series of posts on the week I spent along the Côte d’Azur. At first I wanted to pack it all into one post, then that got a bit long … plus, I think it will be more useful for those who are just interested in reading about specific places.

In this post, I’ll write about what I saw and did when I wasn’t dancing tango in Nice. I had less than two full days there, as the rest of the time we went on day trips to other places along the Côte d’Azur, but more about that in future posts.

Castle Hill

I arrived in Nice in the early evening from Marseille and the first place we went, before the milonga was up to Castle Hill for one best views of the port of Nice. There is an elevator which will take you up most of the way in case you don’t want to or can’t make the climb. I think it costs around 5€ if you take the elevator. Apart from the amazing panoramic views from the top, there is also a nice park, a waterfall and a cafe. A perfect place to watch the sunset.

Cours Saleya

Located in the heart of the old town, this is an open air market which sells fruit, vegetables and other fresh produce from Tuesdays to Sundays. There is also a flower market which is open all day. On Mondays, it’s an antiques market. It’s great place to walk around, even on cloudy days …

If you happen to be there on a Saturday, there is a book market close by, on Place du Palais. For more information about markets in Nice check here.

Place Massena

This is the main shopping area of Nice and I went for a walk in a small park close by. Many people were standing talking pictures of this view in what looked like a very large, shallow puddle.

And this happened…

Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Russian Orthodox cathedral of St Nicolas

The largest Russian orthodox church outside Russia is located a short walk from the main train station of Nice. Built at the beginning of the twentieth century, it is a very impressive building and is surrounded by a small park.

Promenade des Anglais

Whether you walk, cycle or skate along the 7km promenade which runs all along the Baie des Anges is up to you, but this is one place you won’t want to miss when visiting Nice. Along the way you might pass the palatial Hotel Negresco with its pink dome, the Palais de la Méditerranée, sculptures, artists selling their paintings and of course there are various public and private beaches. Or, you can sit on one the blue lounge chairs and look out at the Mediterranean. Another perfect place to watch the sunset (or sunrise).

Your turn …

Have you been to Nice? What is your favourite spot? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!