Hello, beautiful souls! Charlotte Dawson here, and today I’m thrilled to take you on an enchanting journey through one of Nice’s most charming and vibrant areas – Old Town Nice, also known as Vieux Nice. With its narrow winding streets, colorful buildings, and bustling markets, this historic district is the heart and soul of Nice. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just looking to soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere, Old Town Nice has something magical for everyone. Let’s explore! 🌟🏰

A Glimpse into History 📜

Vieux Nice is the oldest part of the city, dating back to the 17th century. Its Italian influence is evident in the vibrant colors of the buildings and the lively piazzas. This area was the center of activity in Nice until the city expanded in the 19th century. Today, it remains a bustling hub of culture, cuisine, and history. For more details, visit the official site. 🏛️

Arrival and First Impressions 🚶‍♀️

Getting There

You can easily reach Old Town Nice by walking from the Promenade des Anglais or taking the tram to the "Opéra - Vieille Ville" stop. The narrow streets and pedestrian-friendly areas make it perfect for exploring on foot.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk a lot – the best way to experience Vieux Nice is by getting lost in its charming alleys. 🚶‍♂️👟

First Impressions

As you step into Vieux Nice, you’re immediately captivated by the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. The streets are lined with shops, cafes, and markets, each corner revealing something new and delightful.

Highlight: The bustling Cours Saleya market, filled with fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. 🌸

Morning: Strolling Vieux Nice 🌟

The Cours Saleya Market

Start your day at the Cours Saleya market, the heart of Old Town. This lively market is a feast for the senses, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to flowers and artisanal products.

Photo Opportunity: Capture the vibrant stalls and the colorful array of flowers and produce. 📸

The Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate

Next, head to the Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate, a beautiful baroque church located in the Place Rossetti. The cathedral is dedicated to the patron saint of Nice and boasts a stunning interior with intricate artwork and a peaceful ambiance.

Highlight: The beautiful facade and the ornate interior, filled with exquisite details. 🏛️

Exploration Tip: Take a moment to light a candle and appreciate the serenity of this historic church. 🕊️

Midday: Dining and Reflections 🌆

Lunch at La Merenda

For lunch, head to La Merenda, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Niçoise cuisine. This local favorite offers a true taste of Nice, with dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Menu Highlights: Try the socca (chickpea pancake) and the daube niçoise (beef stew). And don’t miss the tarte au citron for dessert! 🥘🍋

Culinary Tip: The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so arrive early to get a table. 🍽️

Afternoon: Surrounding Attractions 🌍

Place Rossetti

After lunch, explore Place Rossetti, one of the most charming squares in Vieux Nice. This lively square is surrounded by colorful buildings and is home to the iconic Fenocchio ice cream parlor.

Highlight: The beautiful fountain in the center of the square and the delicious ice cream at Fenocchio. 🍦

Photo Opportunity: Capture the vibrant colors of the buildings and the bustling activity of the square. 📸

The Lascaris Palace

Next, visit the Lascaris Palace, a 17th-century aristocratic mansion that now serves as a museum. The palace is a stunning example of baroque architecture and houses a collection of antique musical instruments.

Highlight: The grand staircase and the beautifully decorated rooms, filled with period furnishings and artwork. 🖼️

Exploration Tip: Don’t miss the collection of historical musical instruments – it’s one of the finest in Europe. 🎻

Evening: Sunset and Reflections 🌅

As the day winds down, head to Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for a panoramic view of Nice. The hill offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, especially at sunset.

Highlight: The view of the sunset over the Baie des Anges, casting a golden glow over the city. 🌄

Photo Opportunity: Capture the stunning sunset and the twinkling lights of Vieux Nice starting to appear. 📸

Final Thoughts 💭

Visiting Old Town Nice is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive experience through history, culture, and the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean. From the bustling markets and charming squares to the serene churches and stunning views, every moment in Vieux Nice is filled with wonder and inspiration.

Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious, and let the beauty of history and culture inspire your travels.

Love,

Charlotte 🌍💕

Hey, beautiful souls! Charlotte Dawson here, ready to take you on a magical journey to one of Nice’s most breathtaking spots – the Colline du Château. This stunning hilltop park offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and panoramic views that will leave you speechless. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a serene escape, Colline du Château has something for everyone. Let’s dive in! 🌟🏞️

A Glimpse into History 📜

Colline du Château, also known as Castle Hill, was once home to a formidable citadel that protected Nice from invaders. Although the castle was dismantled in the early 18th century by Louis XIV, the area has been transformed into a beautiful park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below. The park is now a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a lush green oasis with a rich historical background. For more details, visit the official site. 🏰

Arrival and First Impressions 🚶‍♀️

Getting There

You can reach Colline du Château by walking up the winding paths from the Old Town or taking the elevator from the Promenade des Anglais. We decided to hike up, enjoying the journey through the picturesque streets of Vieux Nice.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and take your time exploring the paths – the views along the way are worth every step! 🚶‍♂️👟

First Impressions

As you ascend, the first thing that strikes you is the lush greenery and the vibrant colors of the Mediterranean flora. The sound of birds chirping and the gentle breeze create a serene atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.

Highlight: The cascading waterfall, an unexpected and delightful sight as you make your way up. 🌊

Morning: Exploring the Park 🌟

The Panoramic Views

Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with some of the most stunning views of Nice. The panoramic vistas of the Baie des Anges, the Old Town, and the distant Alps are simply breathtaking.

Photo Opportunity: Capture the sweeping views of Nice, especially the vibrant blue of the Mediterranean Sea. 📸

The Ruins and Historical Sites

Explore the remnants of the old castle and the ancient ruins scattered throughout the park. Each stone and wall tells a story of Nice’s rich history and its strategic importance.

Highlight: The Bellanda Tower, which offers an even higher vantage point for incredible photos. 🏰

Exploration Tip: Take a moment to read the informational plaques that provide fascinating insights into the history of the castle and the area. 🎧

The Gardens

The beautifully landscaped gardens are a delight to wander through. The lush greenery, colorful flowers, and shaded paths offer a tranquil escape from the heat of the day.

Photo Opportunity: Capture the vibrant blooms and the serene pathways as you stroll through the gardens. 🌸

Midday: Dining and Reflections 🌆

Picnic in the Park

One of the best ways to enjoy Colline du Château is by having a picnic. Bring some local delicacies from the markets in Old Town and find a cozy spot under the trees.

Menu Highlights: Try some fresh baguettes, local cheeses, and a selection of Provençal olives. Don’t forget a bottle of rosé! 🥖🧀🍷

Culinary Tip: Visit the Cours Saleya market in the morning to pick up your picnic supplies. It’s a feast for the senses with its array of fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods. 🌿

Afternoon: Surrounding Attractions 🌍

Vieux Nice (Old Town)

After your relaxing picnic, head down to Vieux Nice, a charming maze of narrow streets filled with vibrant shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

Highlight: Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, a stunning example of Baroque architecture in the heart of Old Town. 🏛️

Exploration Tip: Wander through the colorful streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the gelato at Fenocchio – it’s a local favorite! 🍦

Promenade des Anglais

No visit to Nice is complete without a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais. This iconic walkway along the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the sun.

Photo Opportunity: Capture the beautiful coastline and the vibrant activities along the promenade. 🌊

Evening: Sunset and Reflections 🌅

As the day winds down, find a spot on the hill or along the promenade to watch the sunset. The golden light casts a magical glow over Nice, making it a perfect end to your day.

Highlight: The view of the sunset over the Baie des Anges is simply unforgettable. 🌄

Photo Opportunity: Capture the changing colors of the sky and the twinkling lights of the city starting to appear. 📸

Final Thoughts 💭

Visiting Colline du Château is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive journey through nature, history, and breathtaking beauty. From the panoramic views and ancient ruins to the charming streets of Old Town and the vibrant Promenade des Anglais, every moment in Nice is filled with wonder and inspiration.

Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious, and let the beauty of the world inspire your travels.

Love,

Charlotte 🌍💕