What Are the 10 Best Things to Do in Nice and Cannes? A Guide for 1st Timers

Nice and Cannes—two iconic names that instantly conjure images of Riviera glamour, cerulean seas, and sunlit promenades. But beyond the glitz lies rich culture, hidden corners, and seaside charm perfect for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to soak in the Côte d’Azur magic once more, this list will walk you through the best things to do in Nice and Cannes—with plenty of practical tips along the way.

1. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais (Nice)

The Promenade des Anglais is the lifeblood of Nice—a stunning, palm-lined boulevard stretching over 7 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. Once a winter resort for British aristocrats, today it’s where locals jog, families cycle, tourists snap photos, and everyone pauses to admire the sea.

You’ll pass grand hotels like the famous Hotel Negresco, beach clubs, art installations, and the classic blue chairs (chaises bleues) perfect for a break with a view.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: It's free, iconic, and gives you a real sense of the city's rhythm.

• Insider Tip: Early morning is the best time for a peaceful walk or jog. For sunset views, bring a snack and a drink and sit near the Jardin Albert I for a crowd-free, golden-hour moment.

2. Explore Le Suquet – The Old Town of Cannes

Cannes isn’t all yachts and red carpets. Step into Le Suquet, its oldest quarter, and you’ll discover cobbled lanes, pastel-colored houses, and sweeping views over the harbor. This hilltop neighborhood was the original fishing village long before Cannes became a jet-set destination.

Wander up Rue Saint-Antoine, a charming lane lined with restaurants serving Provencal cuisine. At the top sits the Eglise Notre-Dame d’Espérance, a 17th-century church, and the Musée de la Castre, home to art, artifacts, and panoramic views over the Bay of Cannes.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: It offers a peaceful, authentic contrast to the glitzy Croisette and is rich in history.

• Insider Tip: Visit just before dusk, grab a drink at a rooftop café, and stay for the views as the city lights come alive below.

3. Discover Colline du Château (Castle Hill) in Nice

Though the actual castle was destroyed in the 18th century, Castle Hill (Colline du Château) remains a must-visit for its lush gardens and breathtaking panoramic views over Nice’s rooftops, the Baie des Anges, and the harbor. It’s also a haven of calm away from the city’s buzz.

You’ll find a peaceful waterfall, shaded picnic spots, playgrounds, and ruins of the old cathedral. It’s perfect for a mid-morning escape or a post-lunch stroll.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: Best city view in Nice + a free, relaxing break from busy streets.

• Insider Tip: There’s a free elevator at the foot of the hill (Quai des États-Unis) if you don’t want to walk. Bring water—there are fountains but few vendors at the top.

4. Visit the Marché Forville (Cannes)

If you want to see real, local Cannes in action, skip the Croisette and head to Marché Forville, a bustling market filled with Provençal charm. Located behind Le Suquet, this covered market offers everything from just-caught fish and artisan cheeses to seasonal fruit and homemade olive tapenade.

Here, chefs buy their produce, locals chat over coffee, and tourists savor the best of the region’s flavors.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: It’s the most vibrant, sensory-rich spot in Cannes, especially in the morning.

• Insider Tip: Go on a weekday morning for fewer crowds. Buy a fresh baguette, some cheese, and figs—and make your own Riviera picnic. Many stalls offer small tasting portions.

5. Wander Through Vieux Nice (Old Town)

Vieux Nice is where the city comes alive in color, sound, and flavor. A labyrinth of winding alleys, ochre-hued buildings, hidden squares, and bustling markets, it’s the most atmospheric part of the city.

You’ll find the Baroque Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, charming boutiques, wine bars, and the famous Cours Saleya market, known for its flowers, produce, and antiques (on Mondays).

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: It’s the historic and cultural heart of Nice, ideal for slow exploring.

• Insider Tip: Go early to explore before the shops open, then come back in the evening for dinner or an aperitif when the entire neighborhood transforms into a buzzing open-air social hub.

6. Relax on the Beaches (Nice & Cannes)

The beaches of the French Riviera are iconic—and in both Nice and Cannes, they offer two very different experiences. Nice’s beaches are known for their smooth pebbles and dazzling deep-blue waters. Most are public, though you'll also find private clubs offering loungers, umbrellas, and beachside service. Meanwhile, Cannes boasts soft, sandy beaches—perfect for a full day of sunbathing or casual swimming.

In Nice, spots like Plage Beau Rivage or Blue Beach are popular (and have beach restaurants). In Cannes, check out Plage du Midi or Plage de la Croisette, which are central and more family-friendly.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: No trip to the Côte d’Azur is complete without a beach day—or two.

• Insider Tip: In Nice, bring water shoes—the pebbles can be tough on bare feet. In Cannes, if you want a quieter stretch, head east toward Palm Beach, where crowds thin out even in high season.

7. Tour the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès (Cannes)

While it may seem touristy, walking the famous red carpet of the Palais des Festivals is a bucket-list moment for film buffs. This building is the epicenter of the Cannes Film Festival, held every May, but is open to visitors year-round.

While the interiors are more functional than glamorous, guided tours provide fascinating insights into the event’s history, its impact on Cannes, and how the city transforms each spring into a global media circus.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: You can stand where Hollywood royalty has walked—without needing an invite.

• Insider Tip: If you’re in Cannes during a quieter month, check the Palais’ event calendar—you might be able to attend a free public event or exhibition.

8. Visit the Marc Chagall National Museum (Nice)

Located in the peaceful Cimiez district, the Marc Chagall Museum is a haven of color, spirituality, and modern art. This museum was personally curated by the artist, and it houses his monumental biblical-themed works, along with stained-glass windows and mosaics that reflect his unique dreamlike style.

The quiet gardens surrounding the museum also offer a lovely place to rest, making it a great escape from the bustle of central Nice.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: It’s one of the most emotionally moving art experiences in the Riviera.

• Insider Tip: Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month. Don’t miss the serene garden café, perfect for a quiet coffee post-visit.

9. Take a Day Trip to Îles de Lérins (from Cannes)

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Cannes, the Îles de Lérins are a world away from red carpets and designer boutiques. Île Sainte-Marguerite, the larger of the two islands, is covered in pine forest and surrounded by rocky inlets perfect for swimming. It’s also home to the Fort Royal, where the mysterious "Man in the Iron Mask" was once imprisoned.

Île Saint-Honorat is smaller, quieter, and still home to an active monastery run by Cistercian monks who produce wine and liqueur.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: It’s a peaceful, natural retreat with history, swimming, and walking trails.

• Insider Tip: Pack snacks and water, especially for Sainte-Marguerite, where food options are limited. Bring your swimsuit—there are hidden coves where you can have the sea (almost) to yourself.

10. Enjoy Riviera Cuisine and Local Wines

The food in Nice and Cannes reflects the Mediterranean lifestyle: fresh, seasonal, and full of flavor. From long seaside lunches to bustling markets, there's no shortage of delicious ways to connect with the region.

Try:

• Salade Niçoise – the local version is simpler than you might expect: anchovies, hard-boiled egg, tomatoes, and olives.
• Socca – a chickpea pancake, crispy outside and soft inside. Best eaten hot.
• Bouillabaisse – a Provencal seafood stew, especially good in Cannes.

Pair your meal with a crisp rosé from Provence, or try a white wine from Bellet, a small appellation just outside Nice.

• Why it is one of the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes: Culinary culture is inseparable from the Riviera lifestyle.

• Insider Tip: For traditional, authentic food in a relaxed setting, try La Merenda in Nice (no phone, no credit cards—just excellent food). In Cannes, Bobo Bistro offers a cozy, rustic-chic vibe with fresh daily specials.

Final Thoughts on the 10 best things to do in Nice and Cannes

Nice and Cannes are often seen as playgrounds of the rich and famous—but they’re just as accessible to first-time travelers looking for history, food, nature, and sea views. From hilltop strolls and market mornings to island escapes and red-carpet selfies, the best things to do in Nice and Cannes offer more than just a taste of luxury—they offer memories steeped in culture, flavor, and beauty.

Practical Tips for Your Riviera Visit

✅ Train travel is easy and scenic—Nice to Cannes takes just 35 minutes
✅ Avoid July and August for fewer crowds and milder heat
✅ Use an eSIM like Stippl to navigate public transport and stay connected
✅ Book museum and Palais tours ahead, especially in high season
✅ Make restaurant reservations—popular places fill up, especially in summer

Whether you're beach-hopping or museum-strolling, your Côte d’Azur adventure starts here. Bon voyage! 🇫🇷🌴🎬