Enjoying Nice without spending a fortune? Here are the top free activities to try

The sun-drenched Côte d’Azur, one of Europe’s most glamorous destinations, can be pricey. However, there are plenty of ways to explore its largest city, Nice, without draining your wallet.

With stunning hilltop views and some of the globe's most renowned beaches, this charming city offers plenty of attractions for budget travelers.

If you're looking to escape the high costs of museum admissions and pricey dining, here’s a guide to the best free experiences in Nice.

1. Soak up the sun at Nice’s beautiful beaches

As you arrive on the Côte d’Azur, the stunning blue curve of Nice’s coastline is likely to be your first impression, a scene you can savor daily. Although Nice’s pebbly beaches aren’t as soft as the sandy ones further along the Riviera, the picturesque views invite you to lounge in the sun for hours (just remember to bring a towel). If you prefer sandy shores, take a quick bus ride to the tranquil beaches of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

2. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais

Named after the 19th-century English aristocrats who were captivated by Nice’s lovely weather, the Promenade des Anglais is a refined, palm-lined pathway that spans 4 miles (6.5km) along the waterfront. It buzzes with joggers, cyclists, and amazed tourists in summer, but no visit to Nice is complete without wandering along to take in the impressive hotels and casinos (including the iconic Hôtel Negresco) as the Mediterranean waves lap at the pebbled beach. As night falls, the lights come alive and the hills to the east transform into beautiful silhouettes, with the rhythmic beam from the distant lighthouse at Port Lympia creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.

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3. Look up to admire la Maison d’Adam et Eve

Nestled in one of the most tourist-heavy areas, la Maison d’Adam et Eve is one of Nice’s architectural gems. Located on Rue de la Poissonnerie, this historic building is among the oldest in the city. Its well-preserved first-floor relief fresco depicting Adam and Eve sparks the imagination. Built in 1584, it can easily be overlooked in the narrow alleys of the Old Town, so be sure to look upwards.

4. Take in sweeping views from Colline du Château

While Nice is stunning at ground level, the true beauty reveals itself when you ascend the stone steps of Old Castle hill. This climb, located at the eastern edge of the city, is surprisingly brief. As you rise, the curve of the turquoise coastline becomes clearer, and the patchwork of apricot-colored rooftops unfolds below. In the distance, the snow-capped Alps peek through, while the other side of the summit offers breathtaking views of the bobbing yachts in the Old Port. Don’t forget to grab a coffee from La Citadelle Cafe; if you're lucky, you might secure a table with stunning views framed by the trees down to the beach.

5. Discover tranquility at Jardin du Monastère de Cimiez

A peaceful retreat from the lively streets of Nice, the Garden of the Cimiez Monastery (Jardin du Monastère de Cimiez) has remained largely unchanged since its establishment in 1546 by monks as an orchard and vegetable garden. Vibrant climbing roses add touches of pink and red to the verdant terrace, complemented by stunning views over the rooftops toward La Colline du Château. The gardens are free to enter, providing a tranquil spot to relax after a busy morning of exploration.

6. Enjoy some people-watching at Place Masséna

Squares offer the perfect backdrop for people-watching, and Nice's magnificent Place Masséna ranks among the finest in France. Expansive and always buzzing with life, this plaza was crafted by Joseph Vernier in 1843. Today, sleek trams glide through the square alongside the shimmering water jets of the Fontaine Miroir d’eau. Take a seat on the marble edge of the Fontaine du Soleil and observe the bustling scene while admiring the vibrant peach and pink Italianate architecture that envelops this iconic square. Place Masséna is also just a short stroll from the narrow winding streets of the Old Town, making it a perfect spot to rest after a long walk.

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7. Explore the contemporary art scene at Villa Arson Art Gallery

Nice’s Villa Arson is much more than just a few airy corridors adorned with attractive paintings. It serves as a cornerstone of the city's cultural and artistic life, making it a captivating destination. Nestled within a brutalist structure in Nice’s northern neighborhoods, Villa Arson has been home to a national center for contemporary art, a national art school, a media library, and artist residencies for over four decades. After appreciating the art indoors, step outside to the hanging garden for a scenic overlook of the city.

8. Experience live music – and art – at La Cave Romagnan

Admission is complimentary at La Cave Romagnan, a beloved hub of creativity and culture located on Rue d’Anglaise. Manu invites guests to explore his diverse library and photography exhibits during the day (note that it's closed from 2pm to 4:30pm, as is customary in France). In the evenings, you might enjoy poetry slams, theatrical performances, or live jazz from 7pm to 9pm, all with no entry fee. Performers rely on donations collected in a hat, so if you can spare some euros, feel free to show your support. Seating is limited, and it tends to be mostly standing room, with latecomers gathering at the door to soak in the lively atmosphere.

9. Offer a prayer at the Cathédrale Orthodoxe Saint-Nicolas de Nice

While the ornate Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate lies at the center of the Old Town, for a distinctive church experience, we suggest visiting the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas, one of Nice’s more extraordinary landmarks. Situated a couple of streets behind the Nice-Ville train station, this Russian Orthodox church boasts five tiled onion domes that are truly unique in the city. Recognized as one of the most significant Orthodox structures outside the Russian Federation, the church features a surprisingly cozy interior adorned with charming floral blue patterns and gilded icons. The grassy area outside offers a tranquil space for relaxation while admiring the stunning architecture.

10. Take a moment to enjoy the flowers at Marché aux Fleurs, Cours Saleya

The Cours Saleya in the Old Town is a bustling hotspot for tourists, featuring restaurants that spill out onto the streets, and it's home to one of France’s most renowned flower markets. From Tuesday to Sunday, vibrant flower arrangements, bouquets, and plants of every hue burst forth from the stalls of the Marché aux Fleurs. Operating since 1861, this market has long served as a local shopping destination, predating the influx of jet-setters and holidaymakers who have come to appreciate Nice's allure. Alongside the flowers, you'll also find fresh fruits, colorful vegetables, local artisanal products, and gourmet specialty stalls.

11. Wander through Cimetière du Château

Only a 10-minute walk from the bustling hilltop, Cimetière du Château offers a more reflective atmosphere. This terraced cemetery is a peaceful spot with stunning city views and features some noteworthy tombs, including that of influential republican politician Léon Gambetta. Adjacent to it is a smaller Jewish cemetery, showcasing unique Romanesque and neoclassical monuments, along with a poignant Holocaust memorial flanked by small marble urns at its entrance.