Start your trip by immersing yourself in the charm of Nice's Old Town. In the morning, wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and visit the iconic Promenade des Anglais. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring the fresh pastries and aromatic coffee. In the afternoon, explore the famous Place Massena, a vibrant square with stunning architecture and beautiful fountains. As the evening approaches, head to Cours Saleya, a bustling flower and food market, to experience the lively atmosphere and sample some local delicacies.
Promenade des Anglais: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Place Massena: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Cours Saleya: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Le Pain Quotidien - A charming bakery and cafe offering a variety of freshly baked pastries and breads. Average cost for a meal is about 10€ per person.
Lunch: La Rossettisserie - A cozy restaurant specializing in traditional Provençal cuisine, with a focus on roasted meats and flavorful grilled vegetables. Average cost for a meal is about 15€ per person.
Dinner: Chez Palmyre - A family-run establishment serving authentic Niçoise dishes in a rustic and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 25€ per person.
Tuesday, August 29: Discovering the French Riviera
Embark on a scenic coastal journey along the French Riviera. In the morning, take a short train ride to the glamorous city of Cannes. Explore the luxurious boutiques along La Croisette and marvel at the grandeur of the Palais des Festivals. In the afternoon, hop on a boat and cruise to the enchanting island of Sainte-Marguerite. Discover the island's rich history by visiting the Fort Royal and enjoy the picturesque views. As the sun sets, return to Nice and indulge in a delightful dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
A charming breakfast spot in Nice is La Favorite, known for its delicious pastries and fresh juices. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For a delightful lunch in Cannes, Le Vesuvio offers a wide range of Italian dishes with a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea. Average cost for a meal is about €20 per person.
For a romantic dinner in Nice, La Petite Maison offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring French Mediterranean cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about €40 per person.
Wednesday, August 30: Exploring the French Riviera Hinterland
Escape the coastal charm for a day of discovery in the French Riviera hinterland. In the morning, rent a car and drive to the picturesque village of Eze. Wander through the medieval streets and visit the Jardin Exotique for breathtaking panoramic views. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the stunning village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, known for its art galleries and charming ambience. Explore the narrow alleys and soak in the artistic atmosphere. As the day comes to an end, return to Nice and enjoy a relaxing evening by the beach.
For breakfast, head to La Tarte Tropezienne, a charming bakery known for its delicious pastries. Enjoy freshly baked croissants and a cup of coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 10 euros per person.
For lunch, try Le Vieux Moulin, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Eze village. Indulge in traditional French cuisine with a stunning view of the surrounding hills. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 25 euros per person.
For dinner, Le Colombe d'Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a must-visit. This historic restaurant is known for its fine dining experience and its collection of original artwork. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 50 euros per person.
Thursday, August 31: Day Trip to Monaco
Embark on an unforgettable day trip to the glamorous Principality of Monaco. In the morning, take a scenic train ride along the coast to Monte Carlo. Visit the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo and explore the lavish gardens of the Prince's Palace. In the afternoon, head to the charming old town of Monaco-Ville and visit the stunning Saint Nicholas Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Port Hercules and marvel at the luxurious yachts. As the day draws to a close, take in the breathtaking sunset views before returning to Nice.
Monte Carlo: Estimated cost (train ticket round trip) - €10, Time spent - 6 hours
Monaco-Ville: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Port Hercules: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Le Séjour Café, located near the train station in Nice. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and sip on a cup of aromatic coffee. The average cost for a breakfast here is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to La Petite Maison, a charming restaurant in the heart of Nice. Try their famous niçoise salad or savor their mouthwatering seafood dishes. The average cost for a lunch here is about $30 per person.
Experience a memorable dinner at Le Chantecler, a Michelin-starred restaurant at the Hôtel Negresco. Delight in their exquisite French cuisine with a contemporary twist, prepared by skilled chefs. The average cost for a dinner here is about $150 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Nice, be sure to visit the enchanting hilltop village of Èze, nestled between Nice and Monaco. Its medieval charm, stunning views, and the renowned Fragonard perfume factory make it a must-visit destination. Another hidden gem is the Musée Matisse, dedicated to the works of the renowned artist Henri Matisse. Take a leisurely stroll in the peaceful gardens surrounding the museum and immerse yourself in the world of art. Additionally, for a taste of local cuisine, head to the vibrant Marché de la Libération, a local market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delicacies.