Nice's popular image as a lovely, sunny spot on the Mediterranean actually began as early as the 5th century BC.
After which the Greeks added a port, the Romans some baths, and the city continued to grow under foreign influences until it became a part of France in 1860. This balmy stretch of beach has been immortalized by the great artworks of Rodin, Modigliani, Toulouse-Lautrec, Matisse and Chagall.
In the 20th century, Nice and the entire French Riviera became the summertime darling of the Parisian artists and the elite. Europe's rich and mighty descended to witness the regions rich light, colours and care-free life style which has so many timeless charms.
is a haven for exotic boats and yachts. A nearby Russian Cathedral, commissioned by Czar Nicholas, provided services for the Romanovs and other Russian dignitaries. It was a favorite haunt for Americans at the turn of the last century.
If the Carnival of Nice has been for a long time the major tourist attraction of Nice, there are now numerous international events which are giving an international rhythm to the town life, such as the Nice Jazz Festival, as well as the sports meetings - Nikaïa, Triathlon, Half-Marathon. At the same time, the many cultural aspects are generating an intense artistic life.
Although Nice may be considered a modern town, it has not forgotten its history. The heritage of Nice is constantly cared for, both by protecting the frescos which ornament the facades of the houses of old-Nice, and by maintaining the existance of the fish market, the flower market, and the fruit and vegetable market.
And more to discover...The beauty of Nice is also due to its green spaces, including 300 hectares of gardens, its linden trees, bay-trees, pine and palm trees, which line the avenues; the fountains of the 'Forum Masséna' or the 'Acropolis Esplanade'. Nice has been classified, for over ten years, as the first town of France for its flowers and for the beauty of its gardens. Today, Nice is shown outside competition, due to its outstanding merits. .
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Winter |
8-12º (46-54 F) |
|
Spring |
14-18º (57-64 F) |
|
Summer |
25-35º (77-96 F) |
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Autumn |
15-23º (59-73 F) |
| Average price: |
3€ for an espresso |
5€ for a sandwich |
15€ for a dish of the day |
9€ for a cinema ticket |
The nicest way to explore Nice is on foot, by bike or by scooter. The new tram network connects the North and the Ea st via the city centre on Avenue Jean Médecin and Place Masséna. The bus service is very efficient both night and day. .
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