Nice City Guide

Local food focuses on vegetable dishes like Socca, Salade Niçoise, and Ratatouille. There is good international variety, especially Italian. Vegetarian and vegan options are common. Some late-night options in tourist spots.

Nightlife includes bars and clubs mainly in Vieux Nice, Port Lympia, and Promenade des Anglais. It offers a good mix of pubs, cocktail bars, and nightclubs.

Coffee scene blends traditional French cafes with growing specialty shops offering quality beans and free Wi-Fi.

Tips are not mandatory as service charges are included. Rounding up or small tips are appreciated for good service, around 5-10% if exceptional.

Buy SIMs at Relay and FNAC stores in the airport. Major providers include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. Orange offers traveler plans and eSIMs. You need a passport for registration.

Central and tourist areas are generally clean with regular waste collection and recycling.

Some 24/7 pharmacies and hospital emergency services exist, but minimarts and food options are limited late night.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Monoprix, and U Express offer international and local products. Fresh markets such as Cours Saleya are popular for produce. Most shops operate 8AM to 8PM and may close Sundays and holidays.

Card payments are widely accepted, though some small shops or market stalls may prefer cash for tiny purchases.

ATMs are easy to find across the city. Check with your bank about fees for international withdrawals.

Several international and bilingual schools teach primarily in English and French, including the International School of Nice and École Internationale Bilingue de Nice. Admissions vary by school.

A small but active digital nomad community meets through co-working spaces and online groups. Nomad-focused events are rare but networking is possible.

Promenade du Paillon and Castle Hill provide parks and shaded walking areas, good for relaxation and running.

Running routes along the Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill are scenic and safe. Running groups and events take place in the city.

Gyms range from chains to local centers, suitable for various fitness needs.

Tennis courts and clubs are available with booking options, equipment rental, and coaching.

Padel is growing, with courts and clubs offering memberships and lessons.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes, often with English-speaking instructors.

Various martial arts schools offer styles like Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing, Muay Thai, and BJJ. Drop-in classes may be available.

Ski resorts like Isola 2000 and Auron are 1.5 to 2 hours away, open December to April with slopes for all levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are available with rentals and guided tours, mainly in warmer months.

Surfing is possible but waves are small and inconsistent. Spots like Promenade des Anglais suit beginners; others like Coco Beach offer more challenge.

Diving and snorkeling are available in the Mediterranean with good water clarity. Equipment rental and certification centers exist locally.

Quality healthcare with public and private options. Hôpital Pasteur has some English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are easy to find, some open 24/7 like Pharmacie Masséna.

Tap water in Nice is generally safe to drink.

Nice has playgrounds like those in Promenade du Paillon and family-friendly attractions such as Parc Phoenix. Baby supplies are available in stores.

Nice is generally accepting with safe spaces, annual Pride events, and legal protections. Venues in central areas are inclusive.

Pet-friendly with vet services, dog walking areas, and pet-friendly accommodations. Policies vary by place.