The 6 Magical Places In Nice & Around

Nice, a charming coastal city in the southeast of France. But if you only stick to the Promenade des Anglais, you’ll miss the real treasures of this region. In the hills and along the coastline around Nice, you’ll find places that will truly take your breath away – from medieval villages and forgotten ruins to stunning hiking paths. Here are my 6 favorite spots around Nice (and how to get there).

1. Baou de Saint-Jeannet – A Hike With Heavenly Views

Just above the charming village of Saint-Jeannet rises a majestic limestone mountain: the Baou. The view from the top is simply stunning – you’ll see the entire Côte d’Azur, from Antibes to Monaco.

The hike to the summit takes around 1.5 hours (round trip). It’s fairly steep but manageable. Bring plenty of water and start early in summer. The trail starts in the village of Saint-Jeannet, reachable by bus 55 from Nice.

2. Saint-Paul-de-Vence – Art in a Medieval Setting

This walled village looks like something straight out of a painting. Narrow cobbled streets, art galleries on every corner, and views over olive groves. It has long been a haven for artists – from Chagall to Matisse.

Visit early or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Take bus 400 from Nice – it takes about an hour to get there.

3. Colline du Château – A Green Escape in the Heart of the City

Ironically, there’s no longer a castle on this "castle hill", but the views are legendary. From here, you can see both the old town and the harbor of Nice. Bonus: there’s a small waterfall and shady picnic areas.

Climb the stairs from the old town or take the free elevator on Quai des États-Unis. Be sure to return at sunset – the view is magical!

4. Ruins of Châteauneuf-Villevieille – A Forgotten Village Above the Clouds

Abandoned ruins, empty alleyways, and a mysterious atmosphere. These ruins lie on a hill above the village of Châteauneuf-Villevieille and are ideal for those who love quiet, off-the-radar places. Barely any tourists – just you, silence, and the wind.

You’ll need a car (about 45 minutes from Nice), and sturdy shoes. The walk from the village to the ruins takes about 30 minutes. Bring a picnic – you’ll likely have the place to yourself.

5. Èze – A Village Above the Sea

One of the most beautiful villages in France, perched high above the Mediterranean Sea. Èze is small, car-free, and a maze of ancient stone streets. At the top, you’ll find an exotic garden full of cacti and one of the best views on the entire coast – you might even spot Corsica on a clear day.

Take bus 82 from Nice or the train to Èze-sur-Mer and hike up via the Nietzsche Trail. The village is free to visit. The exotic garden has a small entrance fee but is well worth it.

6. Sentier du Littoral – A Dreamy Coastal Walk

This coastal trail starts in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and winds along rocky shores, passing private villas, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. Pure Mediterranean magic.

Start at Plage de Passable or Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and walk toward Paloma Beach. Wear good shoes – some parts are rocky – and bring swimwear for a dip along the way.

Nice is much more than just beach and city vibes (though those are lovely too). The surrounding region is bursting with hidden gems – perfect for travelers looking to mix culture, nature, and adventure. Rent a scooter or car, hop on a local bus, or lace up your hiking boots and discover the wilder, quieter, and more surprising side of southern France.

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