Nice – Private Historic Walking Tour – Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France

EXPERIENCE

Take a leisurely stroll at Massena Square, the main gathering venue of the city. Its characteristic checkerboard surface, along with the vibrant red facades and pastel-green window shutters of the surrounding neoclassical buildings, makes the site a real feast for the eyes. The highlight of all is the very often photographed Fountain of the Sun. It consists of sculptures symbolizing the planets: Earth, Mars, Venus, Mercury, and Saturn gathering around a huge statue of Apollo, the Sun God in the middle.

Drop in the adjoining Promenade du Paillon for pure relief in hot weather when you cool off your feet in the Mirror Of Water, a 3000m² shallow pool dotted with water jets that sometimes puff out a gentle cooling mist or shoot fountains of water high into the air.

Next, stroll across the Old Town, which showcases a veritable colorful palette of cozy squares, vibrant markets, baroque churches, and a jumble of pastel houses. The stunning period architecture of the town offers a chance to get carried away by the past, while the restaurants, shops, and galleries of local artists along narrow, shadowy streets provide a lot of opportunities for buying gifts and window shopping.

Stop by the Nice Cathedral, dominating one of the busiest squares in the Old Town, allowing thousands of passers-by to marvel at its majestic beauty every day. The imposing cathedral declared a Historic Monument in 1906 is one of the Old Town’s most iconic monuments.

As you move on, explore the Cours Selaya Market. Besides having been selling local flowers for more than 100 years, the market has a lot more to offer: delicious fruit and vegetables, fresh produce, and local specialties. The brightly colored displays, homemade local delicacies available for sampling, and the bustling sound make this place a real treat for all the senses.

Upon leaving the market, walk onto the Promenade des Anglais, meaning Walkway Of The English as it was developed by an Englishman at his own expense in 1820. The seven-kilometer thoroughfare provides an uninterrupted picturesque view of the azure sea, palm trees, and vibrant activities along the golden beach.

At the end of the tour, explore the Hill Castle, whose ruins are the foundation of the most popular park in the city. Located at the highest hill, the well-shaded park offers various vantage points to soak up the breathtaking panoramic view over the Old Town, the Port, and Nice Bay, and thus chances to take picture-postcard photographs. What’s more, the park houses a splendid large waterfall and some intriguing archaeological sites.

HIGHLIGHTS

Watch the everyday, unhurried lifestyle of the city at the Massena Square
Travel back in time amid the historic Old Town
Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, a stunning beach pedestrian walkway
Enjoy the cool beach breeze and admire the entire city from the Hill Park

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