My top reasons for visiting Nice in winter
9 November 2023
Come to Nice in winter, a bright and seductive idea!
Treat yourself to a few days in Nice, outside the peak tourist season. The Côte d’Azur capital invites you to enjoy its enchanting landscapes, coastline, art of living, mild weather and secret festivities.
Here are my arguments to convince you to visit Nice this winter:
Accessibility and a wide range of air services
Winter is the perfect time to take a break and recharge your batteries under the Côte d’Azur sun. It’s simply irresistible to come to Nice for a romantic weekend away, a family getaway or a week of discovery, far from the stress and gloom! Thanks to its international airport (the 2nd largest in France after Paris) and its many scheduled and low-cost services to major European cities, Nice is only a few hours’ flight from your home. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
An exceptional heritage built on winter tourism
Did you know that Nice is part of UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List? Nice is listed as a “Riviera winter resort town“. Yes, you read the word “winter” correctly! Does that surprise you? The simple fact is that tourism was born in Nice at a time when the aristocrats and crowned heads of Northern Europe came to the Côte d’Azur to spend much milder and more glamorous winters than in their own countries. Palaces, landscaped gardens and fantastic residences were built to welcome them. Nice has preserved the heritage of its past.
Explore the historic streets of Vieux-Nice, discover the magnificent buildings and edifices of the seafront and city centre and immerse yourself in Nice’s fascinating history. Take in the breathtaking views from the air.
A season to discover artistic treasures
Nice is packed with fascinating museums that are sure to amaze you, whatever your interests. There really is something for everyone. Rain or shine, the museums offer you the chance to come face to face with breathtaking creations by Matisse, Chagall, Niki de Saint-Phalle, Ben, César, Mossa… Incredible works to discover in buildings each more beautiful than the last.
For visits and activities that won’t break the bank, opt for the French Riviera Pass and visit without counting the cost! Art is also everywhere in Nice. As you wander around, you’ll come across the work of some of Nice’s best street-art artists. In winter, the weather is often beautiful in Nice. Take selfies in front of the #ILoveNice and create your own artistic performance in a unique setting that’s 100% Nice. Share your best shots using the hashtag #explorenicecotedazur. You’re sure to be the envy of many!
Nice cuisine listed as part of France’s intangible cultural heritage
In winter, enjoy comforting Nice dishes such as pistou soup, stuffed vegetables or the famous daube niçoise, accompanied by a good AOC wine from the hills around Nice. You’ll love burning your fingers as you enjoy a slice of socca fresh from the wood-fired oven. In a restaurant with the “Cuisine Nissarde” label, let yourself be tempted by local flavours and produce. Enjoy every mouthful. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
And what better way to learn about local recipes than to take part in a Niçoise cooking workshop?
An ideal time to relax
In winter, it’s important to take time off for yourself. Take advantage of Nice’s exceptional light by strolling along the elegant Promenade des Anglais. Admire the extraordinary shade of blue that stretches to the horizon. Enjoy a delicious hot chocolate in one of the city’s many chic establishments or on a sunny terrace on the Cours Saleya. Immerse yourself in the warm, comforting waters of a luxury hotel spa. Or opt for a relaxing massage. Aren’t you feeling good while the rest of Europe is shivering?
A very attractive shopping offer
In December, shop windows are decked out in their finest finery. It’s a great time to be shopping under the Côte d’Azur sun! Enchanting entertainment, twinkling lights, Christmas decorations… the magic of the festive season comes to our favourite shops!
From mid-January, take advantage of the winter sales to treat yourself to your favourite items at reduced prices. Find trendy pieces. Push open the doors of artisans or concept stores and be surprised by the creativity of the new wave. Browse vintage items at the flea market or in the Village des Antiquaires and find that rare piece that will create a “wow” effect in your living room or on your bedside table.
Stroll through the chic aisles of shopping centres such as Nicetoile, Les Galeries Lafayette and CAP 3000, voted best shopping centre in the world in 2021!
An exciting programme of festivities
When winter sets in, despite the drop in temperature, the warmth of Christmas is never far away! The town centre will be decked out in lights and you’ll be in for a real treat. Welcome to the Christmas Village!
The Nice Carnival is one of the Côte d’Azur’s most emblematic winter events. In February, let yourself be carried away by the festive spirit and unbridled humour of the floats and fanciful costumes. And don’t forget to dress up! You’ll get in free! Take part in the famous Flower Parades and let the charm do the rest…
A proximity of the sea and mountains that is unique in Europe
Skiing during the day and strolling along the seaside in the same day is a dream come true here in the Nice Côte d’Azur metropolitan area. The exceptional sunshine enjoyed by the Nice Côte d’Azur resorts makes for an unforgettable azure-white mountain experience. All the ingredients for a dream family holiday! Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, snowboarding, snow driving, snowshoe trekking, ice skating, igloo building, hockey initiation, yoga at the summit, ice climbing… the list of possibilities is endless.
Nice invites you to combine winter with pleasure. Like millions of visitors, come and discover Nice, savour its charms and enjoy its extraordinary energy and bubbling creativity.
