A coastal getaway is a quick fix for any and all problems, and 48 hours in Nice is no exception to the rule. With its unique architecture, rocky beaches, and local markets, Nice is a reflection of all that the French have to offer.
In the quaint neighborhood of Old Town, specifically, you can hardly walk half a block without stopping to peer in a window at a piece of beautifully crafted jewelry or a pastry that looks almost too good to eat. It’s no wonder that this coastal city averages over five million visits each year from people all over the world, making it the second-largest tourist hub in the entire world.
You may have seen Nice’s pebbly shoreline on a postcard or two, but the photographs hardly do them justice; this beach is truly a man-made miracle. The distinctive black-and-white striped umbrellas of the beach clubs are supported by a cascade of smooth rocks that contrast with the main attraction: the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea, which in this area is so blue, you could confuse it with Gatorade.
After a few hours of sunning and swimming, you may find yourself a bit waterlogged, but never fear—the streets of Old Town have so much more to offer a curious tourist’s eye! If you can make it to the main strip by lunchtime, you may be lucky enough to browse through tents of beautiful bouquets, fresh fruit, and a French staple: lavender soap. However, when the sun starts to go down, these pop-ups really shine. Jewelers take over with rows of glamorous gold and sparkling silver that are impossible to ignore… especially with prices no higher than 25 euros. Getting hungry? The strip itself is made up of dozens of the city’s most renowned restaurants, from local seafood to Italian imports.
If you’re craving the full European experience in just a couple of days, then grab your carry-on and book your flight… there’s nowhere better to see it all than in Nice!
About the Authors
Carson Batten (Broadcast Journalism), Adrienne Cooper (Advertising), Alexis Good (Marketing & Visual Communications), Allie Marsinko (Broadcast Journalism), Will Miller (Mass Communications)