As a vibrant and adventurous travel writer, I’ve been to many astonishing places across the globe. Today, I cannot help but reminisce about the beautiful city of Nice and reflect on the charming qualities that make it the laid-back capital of the French Riviera. Join me in a stroll through the memory lanes of this lovely town.
Flavors of the French Riviera
Let me guide you through the culinary wonders of Nice, a food lover’s paradise. The city boasts some of the best traditional Niçoise cuisine, seeping with the soul-satisfying flavor of sun-ripened fruits and fresh Italian pasta. The streets are chockfull of vendors selling the ubiquitous Salade Niçoise. The pan bagnat, essentially a Salade Niçoise sandwich, is served fresh in numerous eateries, made with local bread, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, olive oil, tuna or anchovies. Such a feast for the taste buds!
Markets and more
Visiting the market is an experience to cherish in Nice. Stroll through the Cours Saleya, a picturesque market offering flowers, food and flea goods, reflecting the city’s everyday life. If you are there on a Monday, you can visit the antiques market and get your hands on some one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
The charm of Old Town
The Vieux Nice, or Old Town, is a labyrinth of narrow streets and historic buildings that preserve the city’s illustrious past. Walking through these streets, speckled with boutiques and bistros, is like stepping back in time. At the heart of Old Town lies the Palais Lascaris, a 17th-century baroque edifice currently hosting a museum displaying religious art and elaborate musical instruments. A visit to Old Town is a must for immersing in the local vibe and soaking up Nice’s rich cultural history.
Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate
The charm of the historic quarter is perfectly encapsulated by the Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate. Decorated with 10 intricate chapels, the cathedral is a legacy of the city’s devotion and grand architectural prowess. The unique architectural style, representing Italian Guarini and French Gothic, is a testament to centuries-old traditions and beliefs.
The casual elegance of Nice, coupled with its enchanting history and flavorsome cuisine, sets it apart from many other European cities. The French Riviera welcomes not just avid travellers but also first-time explorers into its laid-back charm. Nice is an example of how living in tune with the sea and sun can lead to a relaxed and joyful lifestyle. This city indeed is the laid-back capital of the French Riviera and a delightful destination to explore. So next time you decide to travel, pack your bags and surrender yourself to the mesmerizing beauty of Nice.
Ava Thompson is a vibrant and adventurous travel writer, who has been captivating audiences with her vivid storytelling and insightful travel tips for nearly a decade. At the age of 29, Ava has already traversed the globe, exploring over 60 countries on six continents. Her passion for discovery and her degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, have fueled her pursuit to uncover the world’s hidden gems and share them with her readers.
Ava’s journey into travel writing began shortly after her graduation, when she embarked on a year-long solo backpacking trip. Her experiences, from the bustling markets of Southeast Asia to the serene landscapes of the Scandinavian fjords, became the foundation of her now-popular travel blog. This platform not only showcased her talent for engaging narrative but also her keen eye for the cultural nuances that make each destination unique.
As the lead travel writer for a major online news outlet, Ava specializes in off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel practices, and cultural immersion experiences. Her articles are a treasure trove of practical advice, covering everything from budget-friendly itineraries to luxury retreats, always with a focus on traveling respectfully and responsibly.
Beyond her written work, Ava is a sought-after speaker at travel conferences, where she shares her expertise on ethical tourism and the transformative power of travel. She is also deeply involved in various conservation projects, advocating for the protection of natural sites and cultural heritage around the world.
Ava’s infectious enthusiasm for adventure and her commitment to sustainable tourism make her a beloved and inspiring figure in the travel community. Through her stories, she encourages her readers to embrace the unknown, connect with different cultures, and see the world with an open heart and mind.
