No visit to Nice would be complete without wandering the charming streets of the Old Town. Known as Vieux Nice in French, it is the historic and cultural heart of the city with over 2000 years of stories to tell. Our private half-day walking tour is a great way to make the most of your time in the city, covering the most iconic highlights of the Old Town as well as some lesser-known local favourites thanks to your expert guide.
On your 3-hour private tour, you will:
- Begin in the lively Place Masséna and admire the remarkable Fontaine du Soleil;
- Enjoy the personalised attention of your local guide, well-versed in the history and culture of the French Riviera;
- Stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais;
- Discover the intriguing story behind the replica of the Statue of Liberty on the Quai des États-Unis;
- Pass by the elegant Opéra de Nice, one of the city's most important cultural institutions;
- Explore the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, a vibrant market filled with colourful stalls offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs;
- See the Palais de Justice, a grand Neoclassical building that has played an important role in the city’s development;
- Walk to Nice Cathedral, a beautiful 17th-century Baroque church inspired by the churches in Rome;
- Soak up the atmosphere in Place Rossetti, a bustling square known for its lively ambience and colourful facades;
- Climb to Castle Hill, a stunning park perched high above Nice;
- Take in stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from the historic Bellanda Tower;
- End your tour with a picture-perfect moment at the promenade.
Step into the heart of the French Riviera on a captivating private walking tour of Nice with a passionate local expert guide who will guide you through the quaint streets and sun-drenched squares of the Old Town, weaving stories of ancient Greeks, medieval intrigue, and Belle Époque elegance into a rich tapestry of culture and history. Your journey begins in Place Masséna, the city’s elegant main square, where Italianate architecture meets modern glamour. Just steps away, you’ll be greeted by the striking Fontaine du Soleil and its commanding statue of Apollo. Soon you will make your way towards the seafront, pausing to admire the bold modernism of the Neuf Lignes Obliques sculpture before uncovering the surprising tale of Nice’s replica of the Statue of Liberty on the Quai des États-Unis, an unexpected nod to the shared histories of France and the United States.
The tour continues past the graceful façade of the Opéra de Nice, a beloved institution that reflects the city’s deep artistic roots. From there, you’ll slip into the sensory feast of the Cours Saleya market, where the scent of lavender, the flash of ripe produce, and the chatter of vendors invite you to linger (if open at the time of the tour). As you navigate the winding lanes of the Old Town with the help of your guide, you’ll uncover the grandeur of the Neoclassical Palais de Justice, the stately Palace of the Prefecture, which once housed dukes and royals, and the solemn beauty of the 17th-century Nice Cathedral, learning the importance of these landmarks to the city’s cultural heritage along the way.
You’ll feel the pulse of daily life in Place Rossetti, a lively square framed by cafés and gelaterias, before ascending Castle Hill, which is widely regarded as the original site of the Ancient Greek settlement that became Nice. From the historic Bellanda Tower, you will take in a breathtaking panoramic view of Nice’s rooftops spilling into the azure Mediterranean, an image you'll carry long after your travels end. You will then make your way back into the city to conclude your urban adventure at the promenade. Your guide will be happy to provide tailored recommendations for restaurants or things to do around the city before bidding you adieu.
Ideal for travellers looking for a culturally rich experience, this tour is a seamless blend of discovery, storytelling, and spectacular scenery. Whether it's your first time in Nice or you’re returning with fresh eyes, you'll come away with a newfound appreciation for its timeless charm.
