Old Town of Nice
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Vieux Nice - by Theau Daniel on Google
Description
Le Vieux-Nice (the Nice Old Town) is the oldest part of town, being inhabited since the Middle Ages. It is a bustling area that marries traditional commerce with tourist-oriented stores. Technically, it is bordered by the beach (Quai des États-Unis) on the south side, the colline du château (castle hill) on the eastern side, Place Garibaldi to the north, and the Paillon Promenade on the western side. The main highlights include all the narrow streets, the Opera, the Sainte-Réparate Cathedral, the Masséna square, the Paillon water mirror, the National Theatre, the Fountain of the Sun, and the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya (fresh food market).
Access & Transport
The 'Opéra - Vieille Ville' and 'Cathédrale - Vieille Ville' tram stops (Line 1) provide best access from the western side and the Garibaldi / Le Château stop (L2) from the North. The old town is also walking distance from the more modern part of the city around Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Basilica and the train station. By car, Quai des États-Unis and Bd Jean Jaurès are the most effective access roads.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest visiting the Cathedral and the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya whilst exploring the neighbourhood.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Preserves the architectural heritage of the city and, socially, the benefits of tourism balance out the drawbacks of over-commercialisation
Conclusion
Le Vieux-Nice is probably the first area of the city a first-time traveller to Nice should visit. It is still very authentic, colourful and a fantastic place to spend a couple of hours including a lunch or coffee break.
Key positive
Compact area and centrally located
Lively atmosphere with plenty to see
Key negative
None
Suitability
The neighbourhood is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility but some cobbled streets may be a little challenging to navigate
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo