A lively coastal haven adorned with a rich cultural tapestry, Nice seamlessly blends sparkling sea views with a retro sense of holiday charm. As France’s fifth-largest city and gateway to the ever-chic Côte d’Azur, Nice invites sun seekers to peruse bustling outdoor markets overflowing with Provençal treasures, bask on the pebbly shores of the Baie des Anges, and savour some of the region’s finest local wines.
SHOP
Explore the treasure trove of vintage finds at the weekly Monday flea market, the Marché de la Brocante, sprawled across the vibrant Cours Saleya. Immerse yourself in a delightful chaos of country antiques or stroll through the city’s narrow side streets, where charming boutiques beckon with one-of-a-kind trinkets, unique clothing, and whimsical knick-knacks to add character to your suitcase.
For a truly distinctive souvenir, venture beyond Nice to the hilltop village of Èze. Indulge your senses in a fragrance-making class at Galimard Maison de Parfums, where you can craft a personalised scent to take home. The studio even preserves your fragrance recipe for future orders.
EAT
For an authentic taste of Nice, reserve a table at the famous Le Bistrot d’Antoine. A lively lunch and dinner spot with a rowdy atmosphere, where hearty dishes are prepared in an open kitchen — think pork casseroles and perfectly cooked steaks washed down with carafes of too-easy-to-drink rosé.
Experience a culinary departure at Jan, an exceptional restaurant in the city’s Old Port district helmed by the talented Jan-Hendrik van der Westhuizen. Originally hailing from South Africa, this accomplished chef, award-winning author, and photographer skilfully merges flavours from his homeland with French influences. The result is a meticulously curated menu featuring inventive dishes, such as scallops and green asparagus adorned with a delicate blend of sesame and white chocolate.
Don’t miss out on the quintessential summer experience of visiting the iconic Le Plongeoir. Perched above the sea on a much-photographed rock pillar, right at the base of the diving boards, the restaurant — aptly named after said diving boards — offers a delectable taste of Mediterranean cuisine and serves the finest St-Germain Spritz in town. Be sure to book months in advance.
SLEEP
Stay at the recently revamped Hôtel la Pérouse, perfectly positioned in a tranquil yet trendy neighbourhood, nestled into the rocky slopes of Colline du Château with sweeping Mediterranean Sea views. Dedicated to all things bright and beautiful, each transformed space captures the vintage-inspired Riviera style. Spend sun-drenched mornings taking breakfast on your wrought-iron balcony or the hotel’s citrus-scented terrace with striped yellow awning, before ambling down to the Place Garibaldi, with its elegant townhouses and arcades. Cooling dips in the rock-carved pool and frozen limoncello cocktails will soon beckon you back — especially once you’ve glimpsed the art-topped tables, coral-studded bar, and shell-shaped fireplace.
Dedicated to all things bright and beautiful, each transformed space at Hôtel la Pérouse captures the vintage-inspired Riviera style.
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