Located in the south of France between Cannes and Monaco, the city of Nice is a popular holiday spot throughout the year. Here, we share the reasons why you should visit Nice in winter, and the great things it offers during the colder months.
1. Enjoy the warm winter weather
One of the main reasons that people visit Nice in winter is that the temperature tends to be warmer than it is in the UK. In fact, winter days in Nice boast consistent highs of 12-13°, with a maximum of just 6 days of rain each month, and this part of France rarely ever sees snow! This might not be great for those wanting that festive feeling, but is perfect for anyone who’d like to escape the bitterly cold British winter for a while.
When visiting Nice in winter, we still recommend that you take a winter coat, as it can get cold when the sun goes down. You might also benefit from packing lots of light layers, as these will keep you just as warm as you need to be. Don’t forget your walking shoes too, as you’re bound to discover most of the city by foot.
2. Winter walks along the Promenade des Anglais
The Promenade des Anglais is a stunning place to walk at any time of year, but you’re sure to enjoy this picturesque stroll a little more when the area is less crowded. Stretching around the Baie des Anges (or Bay of Angels), this promenade is just as popular with cyclists and skaters as it is with walkers due to its dedicated path for those on wheels.
As you walk, you’ll see some of Nice’s beautiful highlights. These include Hotel Negresso, a building from 1912 with a striking pink dome, Palais de la Mediterranee, which boasts an art deco design, and Le Chaise, a fun sculpture symbolising the blue chairs which have sat along the promenade since the 50s. There are also lots of lovely bars and restaurants where you can relax and unwind, so you certainly won’t be short of refreshments during your walk.
3. Explore Nice Old Town
As fewer tourists visit Nice in winter, exploring its traditional Old Town (or Vieille Ville) at this time of year is a far more relaxing experience. Take a peaceful wander around its narrow, cobbled streets, admiring coloured facades, iron lanterns, painted shutters, and charming balconies, and have a browse in unique shops and French boutiques. You’ll also find a daily market which offers fresh produce and local products, perfect for preparing meals or taking home with you.
There’s plenty of places to eat within Nice Old Town too, so you’re sure to find somewhere to get cosy and enjoy a great meal or a few drinks. Whatever the weather, you simply have to try an ice cream or sorbet from Fenocchio. With 94 treats to choose from, this popular ice cream parlour has been open since the 60s, and is particularly well-known for its crazy flavours – including tomato and basil!
4. See Nice Carnival in February
Every February, the streets of Nice come alive with its famous carnival – which is a truly unmissable event. See parades full of decorative floats, talented dancers, and mesmerising performers, make their way through the streets, and witness the fabulous ‘Battle of the Flowers’ which sees hundreds of fresh flowers thrown from floats into the crowd.
As one on the best festivals in France, the Nice carnival never fails to put on an amazing show for both locals and tourists, so there’s no risk of getting bored! Plus, as already mentioned, Nice’s mild winter weather means that you won’t need to worry about getting too cold as you enjoy the entertainment.
5. Experience Nice Opera House
The Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur is a stunning building, and the different performances that are hosted there offer a great opportunity to hide away from dark nights during your break. Operas, ballets, and philharmonic music concerts can be enjoyed here throughout the year, but there’s something quite cosy about spending a cultural evening here when it’s cold outside.
The opera house’s history may also be of interest to you, as it was originally just a small wooden theatre from 1776 until a more impressive theatre was built in 1826. Unfortunately, this building was destroyed by a gas explosion in 1885 which resulted in it being burned to the ground. Today’s Opéra Nice Côte d’Azur has been in place since 1885, and it has been restored and maintained to ensure that it keeps its grand appearance.
Now that you know why you need to visit Nice in winter, book your Dover to Calais ferry crossing and start planning your drive to the south of France today.
