What to do in Nice, France with Only 24 Hours

Wow, I have so much to say about Nice, France that I’m almost at a loss for words. It was absolutely breathtaking, it was everything I had imagined and so much more. I left Nice thinking two things:

1. I shouldn’t have only booked 24 hours in this magical place and
2. I’ll be back, hopefully sooner than later.

Nice will forever be dear to me. It was my very first solo stop after all. Me, Sylvia, traveling abroad solo-if you know me, you know this concept is completely wild.

I can be a social person, but I would be described as a shy homebody more than anything. I’m so introverted, I don’t go out a lot. People typically take my shyness and RBF (resting bitch face) and immediately assume I’m a huge bitch and then try to stay out of my way. It’s a gift and a curse if I’m completely honest. I’m just very introverted so traveling alone means I’m probably going to be alone the entire time. Keeping this in mind, Nice was the perfect place to be alone and not feel alone whatsoever.

I left Paris and my three friends at 7am and was landing in Nice around 11am, the solo leg of the trip had begun. There was no turning back. I was completely alone in a foreign country where they predominantly spoke an unknown language to me. #nobigdeal #imgrown But really, I was fine and lets be honest almost everyone speaks English. My biggest worry was getting to the carousel and not seeing my luggage, yet again (more on that here). To say I was holding my breath and sweating the entire wait would be a slight understatement. Once I saw my luggage round the corner I was completely relieved of all worry. I was actually overly confident, rather than book an uber to my hotel I decided I would learn the bus system in Nice right off the bat and bought a bus ticket then headed toward the pick up area all the while looking like I actually had a clue. I even had people start asking me questions in French, twice! To be fair, it was extremely simple-and if you have a smart phone you can plug in transit directions just as easily as driving or walking directions.

Views from my room at Arome Hotel Nice.

Where to stay in Nice…

First thing’s first was checking in to my hotel to freshen up, charge my phone and drop off my luggage.

Arome Hotel Nice

I had informed the hotel prior to arriving that I would be landing earlier than check in and dropping my luggage off and was happily surprised when they had my suite ready for me at noon. I let the front desk know that I would only be in town for 24 hours and wanted to see the best of the best. The gentleman then pulled out a map and proceeded to HOOK IT UP with recommendations, even going as far as to recommend day trips for my next trip to Nice, it’s like he already knew I’d be back. I’m sure this little town has that effect on a lot of people. After giving me the most comprehensive rec. list he helped me to my room by caring my 50 lb. suitcase to my 3rd floor suite. The room was perfect! It was bright, clean, simple but chic decor and had amazing views along with the most comfortable bed. Too comfortable. I sat down while my phone was charging and was soon laying down. Luckily, my list making, itinerary-setting, right brain took over and got me to my feet before it was too late.

I couldn’t spend my only 24 hours sleeping after all.

Check out my room at the Arome Hotel Nice below!

Boscolo Exedra Nice

If it’s within your budget, this hotel is funky and classic all in one! I remember going back to this hotel a few times during my search because it was just so unforgettable.

What to see & do in Nice

#ILoveNice

Did you even visit Nice if you don’t get a photo with/or of this iconic sculpture?

Place Massena

A major square in the city, it’s lined with checkered streets and beautiful colored buildings. A perfect place to get photos and it’s near the fountain feature and Promenade.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill was great, the views were amazing and getting there was easy as it’s essentially the highest point so you just casually follow behind the crowds heading upward, stopping and shooting photos every few steps. At the very top of Castle Hill there was a small shop and restaurant. I thought about hanging out for an ice cream but I had to start heading back down toward the promenade before sunset. There’s also a large park area that gives great views of the port on the way up.

Old Town

Think narrow, winding streets, old pastel buildings and charm galore. You can find meats and cheeses here or even shop for textiles or flowers.

MAMAC

This museum is great, the art inside is both thought provoking and fun and the views from atop are worth the visit in itself. Complete 360 views of Nice, it’s incredible. I believe the entrance fee was $12.

Promenade des Anglais

I didn’t spend very much time here because I only had 24 hours to get in as much as I could be OMG it was a site, so stunning. A black stone beach, this was a first for me. What I really loved was that it wasn’t super populated, it actually looked like somewhere you could hangout and enjoy a good book.

Boscolo Exedra Nice

I know this is a hotel but it’s beautiful and worth a pop-in to check out the funky horse sculpture. Plus it’s located right across the street from the Promenade Des Anglais so why not if you’re right there?

Vintage Shops

Scattered around the city you’ll find all sorts of vintage shops selling everything from accessories to large furniture. Step inside of a few and take in the charm, you won’t be disappointed.

Where to Eat in Nice

I stumbled across the very restaurant I had saved to my notes by accident on my way back down from Castle Hill, it was such a lucky surprise! I was able to snag a table before what felt like a wave a people began to fill every table and even standing room both upstairs and downstairs.

Movida’s Tapas Bar

Located right across the street from the beach is an ideal spot to catch the sunset while enjoying great bar food (pictured above). Stay late and enjoy a live DJ mixing tunes that are the perfect blend to both lounge and sing along to.

Boulangerie Patisserie La Fragola

A boulangerie that was near my hotel and opened at 6am, perfect for anyone needing a croissant and cafe before heading to the airport or out to explore the city.

Brasserie des Chauffeurs

I had breakfast here and the cafe and the Croissant ou Pain au Chocolat were both amazing. Plus, the people watching on the street was mellow, but enough to keep a solo traveler from getting bored.

Next time I visit Nice it will have to be for far more than 24 hours. I can’t wait to go back and check off some of the things I wasn’t able to get to this time around, like the Chagall Museum or getting a car and taking some day trips to nearby towns.

Have you ever visited Nice? Drop me some suggestions of things to do next time below.

Xx Sylvia