An article about Nice France popped up on my Facebook timeline the other day and it got me reminiscing a bit about the time we spent there as a family. My partner is all excited about how wonderful nieces and I guess I was a little underwhelmed. We had a lovely apartment hotel with the Citadine practically on the coastline. I must say that the parking underneath was the scariest I’ve ever had to maneuver, and I swore that I would arrive and never go out with the car again until we left.
I settled in I found Nice France to be really an enjoyable town. But I enjoyed the day trips the most. I mean who doesn’t want to go and see the opulence of Monte Carlo with the extravagance of the casino and the high end stores. I also enjoyed our trip down to Cannes; of course not much was happening there at the time, and it was great to watch walk along the pebbly beach. I think that’s what surprised me the most about the coastline was just how rocky and pebbly it was. Here is my favorite picture of the boys that I took at the time.
In the enchanting city of Nice France, immerse ourselves in the captivating beauty of November. Roquebrune Cap Martin is a hidden gem akin to Villefranche sur Mer, revealing breathtaking vistas of Monaco that surpass all expectations.
Transported back in time, we discovered that Nice France was once a part of Italy, infusing the city with an authentic Italian essence that delighted the senses.
Here are some of the things to bring joy to your hearts in Nice France:
1. Stroll along the promenade during quiet moments, finding solace on a bench facing the endless expanse of the ocean, basking in the warm embrace of the sun. However, one must be wary of mischievous seagulls that snatch away cherished pastries, taking flight with their plunder.
2. Gaze upon the architectural marvels that adorned the city’s skyline. Each building is a testament to the opulence of a bygone era. Yet, one must keep their eyes grounded, for hidden dangers may lurk underfoot, like the unsuspecting doggy landmines.
3. Embrace the ethereal beauty of stained glass windows, witnessing the dance of light within ancient churches, a celestial performance transcending time.
4. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the Cours Saleya market, where flowers and produce breathe life into the bustling streets. On Mondays, the market transforms into a captivating antique wonderland, a treasure trove of historical curiosities.
5. Express gratitude for the city’s exceptional public transportation system, which effortlessly whisked us away to various destinations, including Mont Boron, where a 16th-century fortress stood guard, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the coast and city below.
6. Discover the hidden artistry adorning the city’s walls, where vibrant street art ignited the imagination. Meandering through the colourful streets of Old Town, the scent of handcrafted soaps filled the air, inviting moments of pure sensory bliss.
7. Embark on a journey through the Marc Chagall museum, diving deep into the artist’s soul with the guidance of an audio guide. A new understanding of his masterpieces unfolded before our eyes. An extraordinary experience awaited us as we encountered a room dedicated to his predominantly pink and red paintings. Each canvas was accompanied by a fragrance, inviting us to immerse ourselves fully in the multi-sensory world Chagall had created.
8. Indulge in a delectable breakfast before ascending the steps to Castle Hill, resisting the allure of the working elevator. The reward at the summit was a breathtaking vista that touched the soul.
9. Peek into the world of the opera house, a realm of elegance and grandeur. If fortunate, attend a Musique de Chambre event, where the harmonious melodies of a quartet fill the air, enchanting hearts.
Parc Phœnix
In Nice France, Parc Phœnix stands out as a prominent destination for those interested in exploring a combination of a botanical garden and zoo. Opened in February 1990, this 7-hectare (17-acre) park is located at the southwestern edge of Nice, along the Promenade des Anglais, in the l’Arenas district.
Parc Phœnix is divided into several zones, including a tropical zone, a Mediterranean garden, and areas reserved for animals. It is particularly notable for its large greenhouse, which spans 7,000 square meters (75,000 sq ft) and reaches a height of 25 meters (82 ft). This greenhouse is one of the largest in Europe and is divided into seven distinct zones.
The park hosts a variety of animals, including pelicans, swans, ducks, and turtles, which reside mainly in the large pool within the greenhouse. Other animals can be found living in cages throughout the park. Parc Phœnix also regularly holds temporary expositions focusing on nature, adding an educational and dynamic aspect to visits.
Parc Phœnix provides a rich and diverse experience, making it an excellent choice for visitors of all ages, especially for those looking to spend 1-2 hours or half a day exploring. The park’s setting amidst the beautiful landscapes of Nice adds to its allure, offering a mix of natural beauty and wildlife observation.
For more information, visit their official website at Parc Phœnix
Day Trips from Nice France:
Visiting Monte Carlo from Nice is a popular day trip, offering various convenient transportation options and many attractive destinations. The journey by train is the most common and efficient way to travel, with a duration of about 15-24 minutes and a frequency of every 15 minutes from Nice Riquier or every 30 minutes from Nice Ville. The cost for a train ride is approximately €3, making it an affordable option. For those preferring road travel, bus line 607 provides a service every 10 minutes at an estimated cost of €3, taking around 45 minutes to reach Monte Carlo.
Driving is another feasible option, with the journey taking about 20-21 minutes along the scenic D6098 route, offering stunning views of the coastline and luxurious properties. Additionally, ridesharing platforms like BlaBlaCar offer a more personalized travel experience with an average journey time of 35 minutes and a similar cost to bus travel.
For a unique and luxurious experience, a helicopter ride from Nice to Monte Carlo provides breathtaking aerial views of the French Riviera, albeit at a higher cost. Private transportation via guided tours is also available for those seeking a more organized trip.
Once in Monte Carlo, visitors can indulge in various activities and attractions. Highlights include the opulent Place du Casino and the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino, the Fairmont Hairpin Curve for Formula 1 enthusiasts, the serene Princess Grace Japanese Garden, and historical exploration in Le Rocher (The Rock) area. The Oceanographic Museum offers intriguing marine exhibits, and for a taste of luxury, a French Riviera Boat Cruise or a drive in a Ferrari along the F1 circuit are unforgettable experiences.
Travellers should know that train stations can get crowded, especially during peak times, and accommodations are available in both Nice and Monte Carlo for those considering an overnight stay. This journey combines scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and luxury, making it a memorable part of any travel itinerary.
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a tranquil coastal town accessible via Nice’s public transportation system. Its charm and beauty surpassed expectations, offering respite from the bustling city. For garden enthusiasts, a visit to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild promises a captivating experience.
Èze, a picturesque village reachable by public transport, where clouds occasionally grace the bright blue sky, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for exploration. Begin at the pinnacle, where botanical gardens unfold like a secret oasis, then meander through every winding path and hidden corner on your descent, discovering the village’s many treasures.