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Credits:

Photographs, research and writing by Matthew Falcus

Nice

Côte D'Azur,
France

Introduction to Nice

Nice is the jewel in the crown that is the French Riviera, on the Côte d'Azur. Bustling, cosmopolitan, Mediterranean, and sun-soaked can all describe this most beautiful of cities - France's 5th largest.

Seen as almost essential viewing to all European backpackers and nomadic European travellers, Nice lies in the southwestern corner of France. It has a busy train station and airport with connections to many destinations both locally and further afield. It is also a typical and convenient base for exploring the nearby chic towns of Cannes, St. Tropez and the Principality of Monaco. Accommodation in Nice is affordable and plentiful, from backpacking hostels to business chain hotels, but beware of the busy summer months when all beds can be booked up weeks in advance.

Attractions in Nice include the castle (Le Château) crowning the green hill next to the old town (Vieux Ville). Amongst these ruins some magnificent views are afforded, and the remains of the 11th Century Cathedral sit serenely under the cool canopy of trees. It is worth a wander along the winding alleys and taverns of the old town itself which nestle underneath the castle hill, then emerge onto the vast and beautiful Promenade des Anglais and beach. Enjoy people-watching as you stroll the entire length of the city on one of its 300 annual days of sun. Museums of art are scattered throughout the city and well worth a visit.

When night arrives, pick one of the many quality restaurants or traditional cafes for a meal and then move on to one of the hundreds of bars, taverns and live music venues located throughout the old town and tourist centre. The casino offers an alternative to drinking if you're feeling lucky.

Nice offers a pleasant getaway during winter months, with sunshine, warmth and good times to be had all round. Christmas markets and decorations add a pleasant change to the usual sights of sunbathers and flip-flops, and the town is less crowded than in the peak summer months.