Yes, three days is enough to experience the best of Nice—from its famous seaside promenade to the vibrant markets and historic streets of Vieux Nice. In just 72 hours, you can discover iconic landmarks, try delicious Niçoise cuisine, and even squeeze in a scenic day trip along the French Riviera. That said, your experience will depend on how well you plan your time. Here’s how to get the most out of a 3-day stay in Nice, and when you might want to stay longer.
What You Can See and Do in 3 Days
Nice is compact and walkable, making it ideal for a short trip. If you stay in the city centre or Old Town, you’ll be close to everything.
Day 1: Explore Vieux Nice and the Seafront
- Start your morning at Cours Saleya Market, where you can enjoy fresh produce and local flowers.
- Wander through the Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its colourful buildings, artisan shops, and cobbled streets.
- Stop for a long lunch at a bistro serving socca or salade niçoise.
- In the afternoon, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, one of Europe’s most iconic seafronts.
- Catch sunset views from Castle Hill (Colline du Château), reachable on foot or via a lift near Quai des États-Unis.
Day 2: Culture and Seaside Relaxation
- Visit top museums like the Musée Matisse or Musée Marc Chagall, both accessible by bus or taxi.
- Enjoy lunch at the Port Lympia area, known for its seafood restaurants.
- Spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Nice’s pebble beaches, or rent a lounger at a beach club.
- In the evening, enjoy a sunset drink at a rooftop bar or dinner in the Carré d’Or district.
Day 3: Day Trip from Nice
- Take a morning train or private chauffeur from Nice to Monaco, just 30 minutes away.
- Explore Monaco’s Old Town, the Palace, and the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino.
- Alternatively, visit the hilltop village of Èze and tour the Fragonard perfumery, or head west to Antibes for a mix of beaches and art.
- Return to Nice for a final evening stroll along the promenade.
Why 3 Days Might Not Be Enough
While three days is enough to cover the highlights, you might want more time if:
You prefer a slower pace. Rushing from one attraction to another might not feel like a holiday. An extra day lets you enjoy Nice’s café culture and sea views without watching the clock.
You want to explore more of the French Riviera. Places like Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are all within an hour and deserve half- or full-day trips.
You want to dive deeper into local life. With more time, you could visit lesser-known districts, take a cooking class, or explore Nice’s wine bars and galleries.
How to Get Around and Save Time
If you only have 3 days, efficiency matters. Here’s how to move quickly and comfortably:
- Use the tram system to travel within the city
- Book key attractions and museums in advance
- Consider a private chauffeur service if you plan day trips to Monaco, Cannes, or Èze
With Luxotica, you can avoid public transport delays and maximise your time with door-to-door service in a premium vehicle.
Where to Stay for a 3-Day Visit
If your time is short, location matters. Choose:
- Old Town (Vieux Nice) for charm and walkability
- Carré d’Or for upscale hotels and nightlife
- Promenade des Anglais if you want beach views
Each area offers direct access to Nice’s top attractions, saving you transit time.
Final Verdict: Is 3 Days in Nice Enough?
Yes, 3 days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Nice, especially if you plan your itinerary well. You can explore the Old Town, relax on the beach, take in some culture, and even hop over to Monaco or Èze for a day.
But if you have the flexibility, extending your trip to 5–7 days allows for a more relaxed and immersive Riviera experience.
Either way, make the most of your time by staying central and booking your day trips with a trusted chauffeur in Nice. With the right planning, three days in Nice can feel just right.