Looking for ideas of where to ring in the New Year in style? Let's go to Nice, France! This charming city on the French Riviera is perfect for an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration.
I'm going to walk you through my amazing 7-day itinerary to inspire your own French New Year adventure. I hope you have as much fun as we did.
Day 1: Bonjour, Nice!
After arriving in Nice (we took a scenic train ride from Marseille where we'd spent Christmas in Provence), get settled into your apartment rental (we booked a place through Nice Pebbles). Once you're ready to explore, make your way to Place Massena, the heart of Nice.
It's a vibrant hub of activity, especially at night, with glowing statues and twinkling lights that just scream holiday magic. Grab a glass of wine and a plate of seafood at one of the many cafes in the area.
Day 2: Market Delights & Promenade Strolls
Rise and shine! Grab a fresh baguette from a nearby bakery (a French ritual that I keenly embraced) and head to the Cours Saleya market. The colors and smells here are amazing! You'll find everything from gorgeous flowers to mouthwatering treats.
Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the world-famous Promenade des Anglais. The views of the Mediterranean Sea are simply breathtaking, especially as the sun sets. It's the perfect way to end your second day in Nice.
Day 3: Cannes, Baby!
Hop on a train to Cannes, the glamorous city of movie stars and red carpets. Explore the Le Marché Forville farmers market – the fresh produce is just begging to be turned into a delicious meal. Speaking of meals, treat yourself to lunch at Le Relais de Semailles.
They offer a three-course menu with wine for a reasonable price (less than 25 EUR per person at the time of our visit). The mushroom ravioli was divine. Wrap up your day with a walk along the Cannes promenade, pretending you're a celebrity headed to a premiere.
Day 4: A "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" Adventure
If you're a fan of the cult classic movie Dirty Rotten Scoundrels like I am, this day trip is a must for your Nice itinerary. Take the #100 bus to Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, the charming town that inspired the fictional "Beaumont Sur Mer".
The bus ride itself is an experience, winding through the hills and offering stunning views. Once you arrive, explore the beautiful villas and hotels overlooking the sea – you might even feel like you're in the movie.
Grab a coffee and cake at a local café and soak in the atmosphere. And hey, if you're feeling adventurous, why not recreate some of your favorite scenes from the movie?
Day 5: Roman Ruins & Hilltop Serenity
Ready for more breathtaking views? Take a bus up to Cimiez, a hilltop neighborhood that overlooks Nice. You'll find ancient Roman ruins, a peaceful park surrounding the Matisse Museum (although I spent more time outside enjoying the sunshine), and the Monastère de Cimiez with its beautiful gardens.
After taking in the sights, enjoy a leisurely walk back down to Nice, taking in the charming residential streets along the way. In the evening, treat yourself to a fabulous dinner in Nice's Old Town. My strategy was to look for restaurants with chocolate fondant on the menu. I'm a huge dessert person.
Day 6: Socca, Markets, & Ringing in the New Year
Back to the Cours Saleya market! This time, make sure you try socca, a local chickpea pancake that's a must-try. It's super tasty, but be warned – the queues can be long.
Stroll through the market, pick up some fresh bread and other goodies, and then head back to the Promenade des Anglais for more of those incredible views. Top it all off with a refreshing sorbet to refuel after all that walking!
The big day is here! Start your New Year's Eve celebrations with a stunning sunset on the French Riviera, a perfect way to end the year.
Then, whip up a delicious home-cooked meal with fresh ingredients from the market – we found that it was so much more personal and satisfying than eating out.
As midnight approaches, head to the Promenade des Anglais. There's was no formal countdown or big event when we visited, but the atmosphere was electric! People gathered on the beach, set off fireworks, and at the stroke of midnight, everyone popped their champagne corks to ring in the New Year French Riviera style.
Day 7: Brunch & Farewell
Start the new year off right with a luxurious brunch at the iconic Hotel Negresco. The carousel-themed décor is so unique, and the food is out of this world.
Be sure to try the pastry filled with foie gras and the caramel cube dessert – so good! After brunch, explore the stunning common areas of the hotel, filled with modern art.
Before you head home, take one last stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, soaking up those gorgeous views one last time.
Bonus Tip: Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs before you go! Lavender products, olive oil, and Herbes de Provence make great gifts (and delicious reminders of your trip!).
I hope you have as amazing a New Year's Eve in Nice as we did!
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