Car Hire Nice Airport
An alluring melange of French and Italian culture, Nice La Belle, meaning ‘Nice the beautiful’ is one of the most gorgeous cities to visit in the world. Feted for its glorious weather, stunning Mediterranean scenery, pristine beaches, vibrant architecture, delectable cuisine and lavish lifestyle, Nice is the second most visited city in France, attracting tourists far and wide for a little slice of paradise. Nestled at the foot of the French Alps along the picturesque French Riviera, a city brimming with life, Nice has captivated many famous artists, composers, and celebrities who marvel at the beauty of this seaside oasis. Once a part of Italy up until 1860, when France was reluctantly ‘gifted’ Nice for their involvement in defending Italy against the Austrians, Nice still maintains elements of its strong Italian heritage. It is a city full of charm; bathe on the La Réserve coastline, stroll along the stunning Promenade des Anglais, unearth the artistic prowess of Henri Matisse or dine in at the luxurious Le Chantecler restaurant. Soak up the vivacious ambience in this mesmerising city on your next trip to the French Riviera.
Soak up the Sunshine along the French Riviera
The French Riviera is one of the most famous stretches of coastline in the world and home to a slice of one of the most beautiful seascapes of the modern era. Often referred to as the capital of the French Riviera, it’s no surprise that Nice’s Promenade des Anglais is the most popular attraction in the city. Stretching 7 kilometres along the Mediterranean coast, this striking seaside boulevard is draped in emerald green palms and exotic gardens painting the ideal backdrop for a stroll along the shore. Lined with various restaurants and bars alongside the iconic blue chairs dotted throughout the waterfront, the Promenade des Anglais renders the perfect postcard as you enjoy a walk, ride, or rollerblade along this legendary boardwalk. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of Nice’s most opulent buildings during your walk including the Le Negresco, Villa Masséna, Théâtre de Verdure and Palais de la Méditerranée.
After stretching the legs on a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, jump back in your rental car and head up the road to the old Greek stomping grounds at Castle Hill. Over 2,000 years old, this once prominent citadel was destroyed in the early 18th century under the order of French King Louis XIV. Transformed into a modern-day oasis, this beautiful park showcases breath-taking views of the town, port, and the French Riviera.
Immerse Yourself in the Local French culture
Renowned for its tranquil waters and stunning coastline, Nice is also home to a treasure trove of hidden gems in the architectural scene. The first stop in your car hire is the vibrant Old Town of Nice. A labyrinth of winding cobblestone roads and tapered alleyways, Nice’s Old Town is the city’s historic district adorned with yellow and orange-hued facades. Littered with various restaurants, cafes, local shops, and an array of archaic buildings, stepping into Old Town is like entering another world. On your journey through Old Town be sure to keep an eye out for Palais de la Préfecture; an early 17th-century former palace of the kings of Sardinia, Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate (Nice Cathedral); a 17th-century baroque church and national monument and Palais Lascaris; another 17th-century palace full of 17th and 18th-century artefacts and artworks, along with a collection of over 500 prized musical instruments.
Outside of Old Town, art lovers will be mesmerised by the ingenious creations of famous French painter Henri Matisse at the Musée Matisse. Home to a large body of Matisse’s work, this eye-catching 17th-century villa situated in the Cimiez neighbourhood is a work of art in itself and a must-see on any adventure to the French Southeast.
Finally, we cannot mention Nice and not discuss its rather unique gastronomy. Authentic Nissarde cuisine has a historical Italian influence often blending fresh local ingredients with Mediterranean-style flavours. Get a little cultured by trying out some traditional local classics including Socca; a large thinly sliced pancake made from chickpea flour, widespread throughout Nice, from street food stands to sit-down restaurants, or Salad Niçoise; Nice’s most famous recipe, combining olives, anchovies, tomatoes, and hard boiled eggs dressed in an olive oil-based vinaigrette. Whatever the budget or occasion, you will be sure to find something delicious to make your mouth water.