Old Nice (Vieux Nice): Complete Walking Guide
Old Nice
Old Nice is the historical and tourist heart of the city, lively by day and night, and a must-see during any stay.
Plan your visit
- Suggested time
- 1–2 h
- Vieux-Nice
- Public space · free access
General introduction to Old Nice
Old Nice, nicknamed « le Vieux » (the Old One) by locals, has a true medieval village atmosphere. Teeming with people, the neighbourhood is lively and can only be explored on foot.
In summer, the place is all the more enjoyable as it is generally cooler than elsewhere. The reason? The proximity of the houses and their height create narrow alleys always in the shade, through which the light breeze from the sea penetrates and acts as a true natural air conditioning.
Food lovers' paradise
To the explosion of colour, mainly the yellow and red of the facades, is added the fragrance of spices and food. Within the narrow alleys of Old Nice, you will find all kinds of artisan food shops: fresh pasta makers, Niçoise speciality shops, butchers, bakeries, grocers, but also countless restaurants, cafés, wine bars, ice cream parlours, etc.
Stop at one of the traditional biscuit makers or at one of the tables serving Niçoise specialities, you will not be disappointed. One thing is sure: the walk gives you an appetite!
A concentration of works of art
In addition to these shops, you will find many boutiques of painters, draughtsmen, sculptors, but also fashion and jewellery designers. Nothing like a walk in Old Nice to unearth a unique work or discover new artists.
A relaxed shopping destination
The old town also brings together many interior decoration shops and chic or trendy clothing stores, all in a picturesque setting that makes shopping enjoyable even for gentlemen! Some major brands have a shop here, but most are independents.
The ideal place for a night out
At night, this is where the people of Nice meet up. Old Nice is the number one nightlife spot in the city. What could be more pleasant than enjoying this huge pedestrian area full of pubs, restaurants and nightclubs for a night out?
Practical information
Never, EVER enter Old Nice by car. The few tourists who try take hours to get out and often damage their vehicle.
Get there by public transport, on foot or by two-wheeler (park it in this case either on the Cours Saleya or on the Place du Palais de Justice). If you came by car, the simplest solution is to park it in one of the underground car parks, which are paid.
Recommended visits in Old Nice
In Old Nice, we particularly recommend:
Where to eat in Old Nice
From the market's pans bagnats to gourmet tables: find the addresses of the old town in our selection restaurants in Old Nice, and wider-ranging world cuisines in all the restaurants in Nice.
The churches and chapels of Old Nice
From the baroque of Sainte-Réparate to the chapels of the penitents: guide to the remarkable churches and chapels of Nice, with opening hours, free entry and visiting tips.
Nearby
Colline du Château
Views and parkland: allow for the climb and check access.
45–90 min · 400 mRead the guide →
Place Masséna
A landmark between the city centre, old town and Paillon.
15–30 min · 500 mRead the guide →