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Looking for a quick escape to recharge and explore? If you are wondering, why should I travel without my kids? Here is why. Nice in November might just be the oasis you need (it certainly was for me!). Picture yourself strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, savouring a croissant as the Mediterranean breeze whispers sweet nothings in your ear. In this Nice November travel guide, I’ll share a delightful 2-day itinerary that promises a blend of relaxation and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just dipping your toes into the world of solo adventures, let me show you hidden gems and charming sights that Nice in November has to offer. Ready to pack your bags?
Why Visit Nice in November?
Nice in November offers a unique charm that’s hard to resist. With the summer crowds gone, you can enjoy the city’s elegance at a leisurely pace. The weather is pleasantly mild, making it perfect for exploring both the city and its surrounding natural beauty. Imagine wandering through Vieux Nice, where the narrow, winding alleys hold stories from centuries past, without having to jostle through throngs of tourists (and their Crispin and Lettice offsprings). The Promenade des Anglais, with its stunning seaside views, becomes a serene path for reflection and relaxation. Plus, the cultural scene is vibrant, with museums like Musée Matisse and Musée Chagall offering rich insights into art and history. Visiting Nice in November allows for a more authentic experience, where you can engage with locals and soak in the genuine atmosphere of this Mediterranean gem. Whether it’s the autumnal hues or the festive preparations, November in Nice is truly a great time to visit! Btw, if you already had the pleasure of visiting Paris and were taken aback by Parisian ‘hospitality’… Nice will prove you wrong. French people are actually quite alright!
Weather and Packing Tips
Nice in November offers a delightful transition from the balmy summer to cooler, more comfortable temperatures. Expect daytime highs around 15-18°C (59-64°F), which are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, evenings can be chilly, dipping to around 10°C (50°F), so layering (aka onion style) is key. When packing, think of versatility: a light jacket or sweater for daytime, and a slightly warmer coat for the evening. I was very happy with a thin, wool jumper, shirts to go underneath and a leather jacket + one double breasted jacket that can serve as a dress if you can cope with wearing tights (my personal itchy nightmare). Suitcase space was left for cheese treats! Consider bringing an umbrella as November can occasionally surprise you with sudden showers (I was a lucky witch to have full sunshine exposure). Comfortable walking shoes are a must (leather loafers is my go to, if you want to give a little French chic vibes), especially if you plan to explore the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Nice or ascend the Colline du Château for panoramic views. Don’t forget your sunglasses like I did! Luckily, a quick trip to H&M for a cheap sunnies wasn’t too much of a hustle! With the right attire, you’ll be ready to rock all the wonderful seaside strolls that this place has to offer.
Navigating Nice with Ease
Getting around Nice is a breeze, thanks to its compact size and efficient transport options. The city is walkable, and exploring on foot allows you to discover quaint neighbourhoods and hidden gems at your own pace. The tram system is a convenient choice for longer distances, connecting key areas across Nice. It would be one of my go to places when I have few hours to kill during the day. Can you imagine dropping off kids to school, follow your heart – which is to the airport obviously!, hop off the plane straight into the beach… well, just like 20 minutes tram ride to be fair (wow!), knock down a few white wines alongside a pot of steamed mussels and head back just in time for the 6pm pick-up? – Certainly possible!
Buses are another reliable option, especially if you plan to venture into surrounding towns or visit places like the Musée Matisse in the Cimiez district. If you’re up for a bit of cycling, consider renting a Vélo Bleu bike to enjoy the scenic routes along the Promenade des Anglais. For day trips beyond the city, the train station offers easy access to other Riviera destinations like Cannes or Monaco. Or you can opt-in for organised guided trip. With these options, navigating Nice in November is straightforward and stress-free.
Day 1: Indulge and embrace the Charm
Morning: Stroll Through Old Town
Start your Nice itinerary with a leisurely morning stroll through Vieux Nice, the heart of the city’s old town. This area is a delightful maze of narrow, winding streets, colourful buildings, and bustling markets. As you wander, take time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and the aroma of fresh pastries wafting from local bakeries. Don’t miss the Cours Saleya, where you can browse the famous flower and food market. This market is a feast for the senses, offering everything from fragrant blooms to fresh produce and local delicacies. As you navigate these charming alleys, you’ll stumble upon quaint shops offering handmade goods, perfect for picking up a unique souvenir for your munchkins. Pause at one of the many charming cafés for a croissant and a café au lait, and simply enjoy people-watching. This morning spent in Vieux Nice will set the perfect tone for the rest of your 2 days in Nice.
Afternoon: Lunch and Market Finds
After your morning exploration, it’s time to refuel with a delicious lunch in Vieux Nice. Opt for a cozy bistro or an outdoor café where you can sample local Niçois cuisine. Socca, a crispy chickpea pancake, is a must-try and pairs perfectly with a refreshing salad Niçoise. Bouillabaisse is another dish I highly recommend. Don’t forget to visit local supermarché for your selection of French cheese to take home. My forever favourites: Saint-Félicien, Sainte-Maure de Touraine and Comté if you prefer hard types.
As you enjoy your meal, relish the lively ambiance and perhaps strike up a conversation with locals, who actually don’t mind speaking to foreigners! If you would like to polish your French, I have to upset you. They’ll switch into English at your first point of struggle.
Post-lunch, delve back into the market scene. The Cours Saleya transforms into a treasure trove on Mondays when it hosts a vibrant flea market. Here, you can hunt for unique antiques, vintage trinkets, and handmade crafts. It’s a delightful way to find one-of-a-kind keepsakes that carry the spirit of Nice. If the flea market isn’t your scene, browse the artisan shops lining the streets. From fragrant lavender soaps to artisanal olive oils, there’s no shortage of charming finds to take home.
If you need to rest your eyes and your body is begging for some sunrays. Head to the beach! If you ever sat down on a Lego brick or a Barbie head and was simply too tired to move, you won’t mind the large pebbles 🙂 However, if you are an owner of skinny ass, benches and loungers overlooking the sea is an option too.
Evening: Sunset at Castle Hill
As the day winds down, make your way to Castle Hill or even Colline du Château, to witness a breathtaking sunset over Nice. This wooded outcrop offers panoramic views of the city’s red-tiled rooftops, the sparkling Mediterranean, and the surrounding Alps. The climb to the top is invigorating, with several pathways and staircases leading through lush greenery and historic ruins.
Once at the summit, find a comfortable spot to sit and relax. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, casting a golden glow over the city. It’s a moment of tranquillity, perfect for reflecting on the fact that you didn’t have to push the stroller up here or even better… carry anyone! No one even needs a snack! Well, apart from you. Hold on.. Do you still have that mini bottle of red from the airplane in your handbag?
If you’re not up for the climb, a convenient lift is available from the Promenade des Anglais. After sunset, head back down to enjoy a light meal and a drink at one of the restaurants by the Quai des États-Unis.
Day 2: Indulge and Explore
Morning and afternoon: French Riviera in One day
You can certainly plan it and hop onto the different destinations using robust transport connections, but if like me, very time limited – organised live guided trip is a great idea.
You will be collected from your hotel and for 9 hours driven to some of top locations worth visiting while you are in Cote d’Azur area. My tour guide has taken me to Èze, Monaco, Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Antibes, Saint-Paul-De-Vence and Perfume factory. Sounds cool for just one day.
My top pros of this type of sightseeing: It saves a ton of time on research. I honestly wouldn’t even come across some of the most beautiful spots I’ve seen on this trip if I was to look for them myself. As an addition, you can meet other travellers from around the world – that like you, are here for the first time. I had some interesting chats with folks from Japan and Canada. After full day of adventures, you’ll be pleased to be delivered back to your hotel room. However, if you don’t feel like ordering a sandwich with delivery to your bed, here is few things I’ve got in mind…
Evening: Dining and Nightlife
As dusk falls, Nice comes alive with a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Begin your evening with dinner at a local bistro in the bustling Old Town. At this point you walked it so many times, it almost feels home. Can you see yourself parading in the morning with baguette under your armpit? Just teasing… Who would have wanted to ditch the UK’s November gloom for this 🙂
Where was I? Yes! Food! Last chance to taste more of Provençal cuisine, with dishes you have been eyeing yesterday: ratatouille, pissaladière, and fresh seafood. My pro tip for finding the right meal at new locations: Looking through tripadvisor and reading opinions of other travellers is one option but Instagram comes to the rescue with quicker search. Each large town will usually have at least one foodie influencer that has eaten at pretty every place in town and posted some lovely pics. Just browse the pictures, find the one that makes your tummy rumble, read a few reviews in google and follow the location!
One weird situation I had this evening included the waiter at the bistro that looked like just what I wanted to indulge that evening. When I asked if it is ok to eat some food tonight, he shouted: Ce’st Beaujolais Nouveau!… and sat me at the furthest table tucked in almost a mop room when top located tables were still free. After I was ignored for 10 minutes, I decided to leave. Don’t let those hiccups ruin your vibe. There is always another place.
After dinner, venture into Nice’s lively nightlife. Wander the streets of Vieux Nice, where you’ll find bars and pubs tucked into historic buildings. For a more upscale experience, you could head to the rooftop bars along the Promenade des Anglais, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean under the night sky. Whether you prefer a quiet evening or a lively night out, Nice offers something for every taste. I’d love to come back to enjoy it more when I am less in my tired mama era.
Nice… it was nice to meet you! Au revoir!
