Nice

As the capital of the French Riviera, Nice enjoys a particularly sophisticated appeal to travellers and backpackers. With its enticing beaches, the city is practically a magnet to those who are slaves to the sun. Although the elite do make this their playground, backpackers are more than welcome here and can enjoy Nice on their own despite a tight budget.

Getting Around

It is easy to navigate through Central Nice by foot once you get the general layout of the city. Walking from the beach to the main boulevard, for example, will perhaps take 20 minutes tops.

There are some bike rentals near the train station if you want to cycle your way around the city. Buses are generally taken if you want to take a trip outside of its borders.

Things to See

Nice is more than the money and the pretty people. It’s a pretty old city and is home to great museums and beautiful squares. Enter into the Musee des Beaux-Arts and gawk at the paintings hanging on display, or head toward the Place Massena, Nice’s most famous square. If you’re tired of tourist crowds, try the Le Chateaux, a hillside park that ironically has no chateau as it became no more during the 8th century.

Things to Do

What does a city of beautiful and wealthy people do for fun? Gamble, of course! It’s no secret that Nice holds a vibrant nightlife — for those with the money. For those without money, it’s still free to look. The Promenade de Anglais is where the best clubs and casinos are located; street performances can also be seen. For culture, try the Opera de Nice, which features plays and operas.

Drinking is mighty expensive, but there are pubs that suit everyone’s taste and budget. Try the L’Ambassade and LD retrad Oxford.

Where to Stay

As you can guess, even hostels can be pricey in Nice. Still, the Villa Saint Exupery is highly rated and located on the hillside; it was a former Carmelite monastery. Mixed dorms go for 20 Euros a night.