Casino de Monte-Carlo
Credit: Orphic Monaco
Conversely, Vieux Nice( Old Town), the city’ s heartbeat, is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, filled with sounds of tourism and commerce. In this historic quarter, once surrounded by medieval walls, markets like Cours Saleya, where vendors sell an impressive array of fresh flowers, local produce, and Provençal specialties, are a must-visit. Although the ambiance of this neighborhood is a bit grittier and more urban than the Promenade des Anglais, the Baroque beauty of Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate and the panoramic views of the Baie des Anges from the Colline du Château( Castle of Nice) quickly restore the general sense of wonder that the Côte d’ Azur inspires.
Speaking of inspiration, Cimiez, situated on a hill overlooking the city, provides a quieter, more residential atmosphere. Rich in history and home to Roman ruins, the Matisse Museum, and the Marc Chagall National Museum, this neighborhood serves as a peaceful retreat from the coastal hustle. It also features the Monastery of Cimiez, with its lush gardens and panoramic views, along with a selection of elegant hotels and restaurants among its key attractions.
Lastly, Le Port( Port Lympia), the port area located just east of Old Town, exudes a nautical charm with its eclectic collection of colorful small boats and mega yachts bobbing alongside each other in the harbor. The adjacent Genoese architecture adds to the waterside quarter a distinctly Mediterranean feel, complemented by a selection of hip bistros and seafood restaurants perfect for unwinding with a glass of rosé while watching the boats come and go.
Architecture in Nice
Credit: Milena Pigdanowicz-Fidera
There are many other extraordinary neighborhoods in Nice, such as the luxurious Trois Collines, Saint Philippe, and Les Baumettes, among others. However, since these neighborhoods are mainly residential, they are worth visiting only if someone is in the market to buy rather than sightsee.
Spend a few days in Nice, and it will quickly become clear why the entire city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021, and furthermore, why it has been called the“ Winter Resort Town of the Riviera.” A true open-air museum, displaying the architectural heritage of the Belle Époque, Art Deco, Baroque, and even modern styles, set against a postcard-perfect view of the Mediterranean, with a consistently pleasant climate that matches its charm and character, Nice is more than the sum of its parts. It is pure magic.
A DAY TRIP TO MONTE CARLO: GLITZ, GLAMOUR, AND A WORLD APART
Home to the ultra-rich and famous, Monte Carlo is Monaco’ s most iconic district— an enclave of wealth and extravagance filled with fivestar hotels, pristine streets, designer boutiques, and a stunning display of ultra-luxury sports cars and magnificent yachts. Unapologetically upscale, it represents the essence of polished perfection. However, beneath all the glitz and glamour, there is a surprising compactness to Monte Carlo, making it easy to explore in a day. After all, Monte Carlo comprises just 108 acres of the total 500 acres that make up the entire principality of Monaco.
FLYWASHINGTON. COM 24 SPRING 2025