A Perfect Home Base in the Cote D'Azur: Nice

Highlights

• Cours Saleya Market: The iconic market in Nice. Flowers, produce, gifts, art, antiques..It has it all. Taking a stroll here in the mornings to take in all the sights, sounds (& flavors!) is a ritual you'll fall in love with.

• Castle Hill: A historic site and park (only a few ruins remain) perched above the city with beautiful views of the coast.

• Musée National Marc Chagall: Explore the diversity of Chagall's works: paintings, drawings, sculptures and more. The museum is located in a beautiful residential neighborhood in the city and is a true gem.

• Musée Matisse: Housed in a former villa nestled next to Roman ruins in the former ancient city of Cemenelum, you'll find a unique collection of artworks and objects from the artist's personal collection. After your visit, take a leisurely stroll through the Roman ruins and visit the neighboring monastery, gardens and burial place of Matisse.

• Beach Clubs: There are several beach clubs dotting the coastline, all with their own unique vibe. No matter your final selection, you can't go wrong. Lounge beachside in a comfortable sun bed shaded by umbrellas. Take your lunch and cocktails right on the beach (delivered directly to your sun bed by attentive servers) or take a break and step into chic al-fresco dining experiences while you gaze at the sea from your table. Bocca Mar is a top choice, as well as the club at Plage Paloma (Cap Ferrat). Cuisines vary, so take a peek at the menus before making your final choice. Sun beds and restaurant reservations can be made online.

• Opera Nice: A great venue to enjoy opera, ballet and concerts right in Old Town.

• Promenade des Anglais: A gorgeous and iconic seaside route to take for a jog or a leisurely stroll. Take a rest and people watch or lose yourself while gazing at the sea.

• Avenue Jean Medecin: Here is where you'll find the main shopping artery in Nice. Galeries Lafayette and NiceToile offer a ton of options. And when you're shopped out, Place Messena, the statue of Apollo and the Ferris wheel are nearby sights to take in.

• The Gayborhood: Nice is the center of LGBTQ+ life on the French Riviera with a queer-friendly history that spans decades. Le Petite Marais, as it is dubbed (Rue Bonaparte and Place du Pin) is where you'll find queer bars, clubs and live entertainment. The city also hosts several LGBTQ+ events throughout the year: Lou Queernaval in February, Festival In & Out in April and Pride events in July.

• Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Dubbed the "billionaire's peninsula", this spot is home to great beaches, restaurants and romantic views. It sits between Nice and Monaco and is a lovely place to spend the day or visit for lunch or dinner.

Day trips:

The beauty of Nice is its proximity and easy access to the stunning sea (and cliff) side towns along the Cote d'Azur. Monaco, Eze, Villefranche Sur Mer, Menton, Antibes, Cannes and St. Paul de Vence are just a few within reach in under an hour. Hop on the train or take a ferry to explore the coast en route. There is no shortage of options, and you'll love the views along the way to your designated destination du jour.

• Bocca Nissa: Delicious Mediterranean cuisine, a chic crowd and a laid-back vibe make this rooftop restaurant an excellent choice.

• Le Plongeoir: A bit off the beaten path, but so worth the trek. This a venue like no other. Perched on top of a rock jutting out into the sea. Tip: If you can't get a reservation, you can visit the lounge area for drinks and small bites. This is a great spot for happy hour.

• La Merenda: Legendary Chef Dominique le Stanc (of Negresco fame) does not disappoint. This is homage to his roots after earning two Michelin stars at the glitzy Negresco. Cozy, small (20 seats), comfortably elegant. Not to be missed.

• Lavomatique: Laundromat turned restaurant. Small plates, biodynamic wines. The panisse (chickpea fries) alone is to die for.

• Babel Babel: A hip spot close to both Old Town and the Promenade offering a Mediterranean fusion dining experience. The kitchen opens for lunch and keeps on humming until late-night.

• Le Chantecler: Go for that Michelin star experience. If that's your vibe. Local cuisine. Formal dining room. A luxurious dining experience.

• La Guinguette: Lunch in the garden at the Hotel du Couvent is a delight.

• Les Agitateurs: Another high-end, Michelin-starred option that is worth the splurge. Exquisite, seasonal cuisine.