Best Things to Do in Nice, France with Kids (2025)
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region
“From where I sit I can see the smoky peaks of the Alps rising behind a town that was old before Alexander the Great was born.”
Rachel, Ellie, and Sophie pose at the Nice sign overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
Why Nice France with Kids?
The French Riviera has long been a dream destination for travelers, but is Nice with kids really worth it? When planning our trip to France, we knew we had to find out for ourselves. Sure, you’ve seen the glamorous side of the region: celebrities basking on yachts, A-listers at the Cannes Film Festival, and postcard-worthy beaches kissed by the Mediterranean sun. But what about families? Is Nice truly family-friendly, or is it just a playground for the rich and famous?
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, we figured there was no bad time to visit. So, we packed our bags and set off on our family trip in November, embracing the quieter shoulder season. What we found? Stunning scenery, fascinating history, and experiences that left us in awe. From breathtaking coastal views to kid-friendly adventures, Nice surprised us in the best possible way and we’re here to share why it should be on your family’s travel list!
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History of Nice, France
Did you know evidence of the oldest known inhabitants in human history was found in Nice? Archaeologists estimate that the history of Nice could date as far back as 400,000 years! Evidence of primitive civilizations within ancient ruins have been discovered throughout the Cote d'Azur area. There’s even a caveman museum (more on that below) where you can learn more!
Nice’s history includes Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Savoyard eras. It has seen conflict brought by invasions from the Visigoths, Ostrogoths, and the Saracens. It was even part of a 500 year tug of war between France and Sardinia. Each era of its history can be found as you explore this town. The Greeks, who named the town Nikaia (after Nike, the Greek goddess of victory) were responsible for the origin of its name. They also established a trade route between Nikaia and Massalia (now Marseille).
After it became part of France, its military importance was diminished, making it less of a military target and allowing it to become a tourist destination. The city flourished, welcoming visitors from all over Europe who came to enjoy the beauty and comfortable weather found on the French Riviera.
Both world wars brought trouble and hardship for Nice. During the early stages of World War II, Nice became a city of refuge for displaced foreigners, including Jews who were fleeing Nazi attacks. However, in 1943, the Nazis sent Alois Brunner, a notoriously brutal commander, to overtake and rule the city. Thus, it was occupied by the Germans and, later, the Italians. The citizens were left starving and the Old Town was bombarded before the town was liberated in August of 1944. The city was rebuilt after the war and regained its place as one of the most popular tourist areas in Europe (and the world), a status it enjoys to this day.
Traveling to Nice
Nice is located in the far southeast of France. 480 miles from Paris, Nice is nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps, and it boasts approximately 330 days of sunshine annually! It is only 20km from Monaco, 30km from the Italian border to the west, and about 30km from Cannes to the east. It is France’s 5th largest city and the 2nd most popular tourist destination (after Paris).
Nice is very easy to reach with easy access by car, train, bus, or plane. The Nice train station directly connects the city to Paris and other major French cities (especially Lyon and Marseille), as well as to Monaco and Italy. So, if you’re already in southern France, or on the Italian side of the Riviera, you can enjoy easy access with a scenic drive or a coastal train, offering magnificent views along your route. Nice makes for a great base for sightseeing along the Mediterranean coast line!
If you’re coming from farther away, you may want to fly directly into Nice via the city’s own international airport. The Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is the third busiest airport in France (after both Paris airports), with routes to and from 115 destinations in more than 40 countries!
From Paris, many tourists spend time in the “City of Light” and then take a quick flight to Nice. If you’re coming from Paris and prefer to take the train, it will require some patience on your end. You’ll first need to catch a high-speed 3-hour train to either Marseille or Aix-en-Provence, and then make a transfer to a new train for the remaining two-hour journey to Nice. Nice is quite close to Marseille and Aix-en-Provence so, even though high-speed trains can’t travel at their top speeds here because of the limitations of the Riviera’s rail network, the journey will be quick and enjoyable.
Getting Around Nice with Kids
Nice is surprisingly family-friendly when it comes to transportation, though there are some challenges to be aware of:
Walking
While Nice is walkable, the hilly terrain and cobblestone streets in Old Town can be challenging with strollers. We recommend:
A sturdy stroller with good wheels for uneven surfaces
A baby carrier as an alternative for Old Town exploration
Planning regular breaks at parks and cafés
Public Transportation
Tramway: Clean, modern, and stroller-friendly with level boarding. Lines 1 and 2 connect major attractions.
Buses: The #600 bus to Monaco is scenic and affordable (€2.50 one-way).
Petit Train: Not technically public transport, but a fun way for tired kids to see Castle Hill.
Taxis & Ride Services
Taxis in Nice can accommodate families but rarely have car seats.
Uber operates in Nice and sometimes offers vehicles with car seats (check the app).
Your hotel can arrange a taxi with car seats with advance notice.
Renting a Car
We found having a car helpful for trips outside Nice, but unnecessary within the city due to:
Limited and expensive parking
Narrow streets in Old Town
Excellent public transportation
Parent Tip: Purchase a multi-day pass for the tramway (€10 for 10 rides) to save money when exploring the city with kids.
Nice, France Accommodations
For our family of 5, hotels are not usually an economical option. We will occasionally book 2 rooms and make sure to have 1 adult in each room but without the guarantee of adjoining rooms, it takes away from the experience of traveling together. We enjoyed the B&B Hotel in Paris because of its ability to accommodate all of us in 1 room, but it wasn’t an option in Nice. So, we splurged a bit and booked an Airbnb that was conveniently nestled between Antibes and Nice, in Saint-Laurent-du-Var.
From the terrace of our penthouse apartment, we had a stunning view of the Mediterranean, Nice, Antibes, and Cannes. We also enjoyed watching the planes take off and land at the nearby airport but didn’t notice any of the noise. We were within walking distance to the grocery (although there was a rather large hill) and just a short drive got us to the seaport where we could park and enjoy all that Old Town and the Promenade des Anglais had to offer.
Click on photo to enlarge and see descriptions.
Our rental consisted of a 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath apartment with stunning views from the enormous wrap-around terrace. We had a fully equipped kitchen that included both a washer and a dryer, a comfortable family room area, and a huge dining space. The Littles shared a room with twin beds that gave them plenty of room to spread out. Ellie had her own ensuite room with a huge walk-in closet and private balcony access.
Kevin and I had an ensuite room with both built in storage and a huge walk in closet. It also featured a bathroom with both a shower and a tub. We enjoyed cooking meals together, watching movies, and enjoying cups of coffee and breakfast on the terrace. We felt so at home, that we even reached out to our host to extend our stay by a few more days.
To help you locate family-friendly accommodations in Nice, we have narrowed down the areas that we believe are the best for comfortable and relaxing stays. For the most current availability and pricing, you'll want to follow the links provided to booking.com and use these neighborhood filters along with your specific travel dates and family requirements.
Nice Accommodations
This is the curated link to Nice neighborhoods: Nice Accommodations
Promenade des Anglais / Gambetta
This area offers easy beach access and flat walkways perfect for strollers. It's central without being too hectic.
Family benefits: Close to beaches, walkable promenades, many restaurants
Accommodation types: Mostly apartments with sea views, some with balconies
Look for: Properties with air conditioning and elevator access
Ideal for: Families who prioritize beach time and easy walking
Libération / Borriglione
A more residential area with a local feel, good public transportation, and lower prices.
Family benefits: Local markets, parks, authentic experience
Accommodation types: Larger apartments at more affordable rates
Look for: Apartments near Place de la Libération
Ideal for: Families looking for value and space
Cimiez
An upscale, quieter residential area with beautiful parks and museums.
Family benefits: Green spaces, quieter streets, Matisse Museum
Accommodation types: Elegant apartments and some villas
Look for: Properties near Parc des Arènes de Cimiez
Ideal for: Families who prefer peaceful surroundings away from tourist crowds
Carré d'Or
Located near Place Masséna, this central area provides easy access to the beach, old town, and shopping.
Family benefits: Central location, access to the Promenade du Paillon park
Accommodation types: Upscale apartments
Look for: Properties with soundproofing (as it can be livelier at night)
Ideal for: Families who want to be in the heart of the action
Fabron / Magnan
Western Nice neighborhood with more space and greenery.
Family benefits: Quieter beaches, more living space, some properties with pools
Accommodation types: Mix of apartments and houses
Look for: Accommodations with outdoor space
Ideal for: Families with older children who don't mind being slightly further from the center
Saint-Laurent-du-Var Accommodations
This is the curated link to Saint-Laurent-du-Var neighborhoods: Saint-Laurent-du-Var Accommodations
Port Area / Les Flots Bleus
Near the marina and beaches with a relaxed atmosphere.
Family benefits: Beachfront location, flat walkways, marina activities
Accommodation types: Modern apartments and vacation rentals
Look for: Properties with sea views and direct beach access
Ideal for: Families wanting a beach-centric holiday with Nice nearby
Cap 3000 Area
Convenient location near France's largest shopping center with good amenities.
Family benefits: Shopping, restaurants, easy access to Nice and airport
Accommodation types: Modern apartments and apart-hotels
Look for: Properties with pools or gardens
Ideal for: Families who want convenience and amenities
Les Pugets / Les Jacquons
Residential neighborhoods with more space and local character.
Family benefits: Quiet streets, parks, local atmosphere
Accommodation types: Houses and larger apartments
Look for: Properties with gardens or terraces
Ideal for: Families who want more space and don't mind being away from the beach
Specific Accommodation Recommendations:
We recommend using these filters for family-friendly accommodations:
Amenities to filter for: Air conditioning, washing machine, kitchen/kitchenette, Wi-Fi, elevator (if not ground floor)
Family-specific filters: "Family friendly" or "Good for children" options
Keywords to include: "Family apartment," "Kid friendly," "Child friendly"
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Our Nice, France Experience
From our Airbnb, we set out for a day of exploration. We began making our way, on foot, down toward the beach. We encountered a “murmuration of starlings” along our journey. This is a term that I’d never heard until we experienced it firsthand. A flock of thousands of starlings would roost together in a tree and then take off without notice, shaking acorns down onto our heads and flying within just a few feet of us. Even though we were laughing and it was fascinating to watch them all move as one, it was actually a bit frightening at times too. The birds stayed with us for much of our descent to the shore, leaving us with a truly memorable experience.
When we arrived at the rocky beachfront near Plage du Port du Cros, we sat on the rocks and just enjoyed the sea salt air. A few fishermen were casting their lines nearby and the girls watched them fish. We stopped to admire boats in one of the private ports and allowed the girls to spend some time playing in the sand near a beach club while we watched small sailboats navigate through the water and planes arrive and depart at the Nice airport.
We were beginning to get a bit hangry so we made our way to CAP3000 (the shopping mall very near the airport). We found a restaurant called Edgar Burger, on one of the lower levels, with a gorgeous view of the Mediterranean where we ordered dinner. Several of us ordered a Croque Madame which was absolutely delicious! With our bellies full, we explored the mall for a little while before beginning the long walk back to our Airbnb at dusk.
We found Nice to be surprisingly walkable. While you will need a sturdy and comfortable pair of sneakers and/or sandals, you can get almost anywhere you want to go in Nice by walking. Our Airbnb was not located downtown. While we could have driven or taken an Uber, we did a lot of walking. We walked to the grocery for our food, the beach, the mall, and all around downtown, Castle Hill, and the port. Over the course of just 3 days in a 5 day span, we walked almost 20 miles, exploring all over Nice and Monaco. (If you stay closer to the Old Town, you can easily get to anything you want to do and see by walking.)
What to See & Do in Nice with Kids
There is so much to see and do in Nice and the surrounding area so it’s easy to see why millions of tourists travel to Nice each year. There are historical landmarks to visit, beautiful views to enjoy, and incredible foods to be savored. The best news is that almost all the items mentioned in this section are FREE! (Please note that, as with most of France, you’ll need to have cash and/or coins on you if you need to use the restroom as you tour the city. Most restrooms will require a small fee to enter but you will find clean, well maintained facilities.)
Promenade des Anglais
This is one of the most popular attractions in Nice. Affectionately referred to by locals as the “Prom,” it was built in 1822 by a group of English aristocrats. The pebble beach and unlevel coast made it difficult for the wives of the wealthy English lords to enjoy their winter holiday so they built the promenade whose name still pays homage to their efforts and financing. It provides 7km of uninterrupted views of the spectacular Mediterranean Sea! To this day, it is a popular place for both tourists and locals to stroll, and bike, with a view of the sea. Many other attractions in Nice can be easily accessed from the Promenade, including Castle Hill, Old Town, Masséna Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Nice.
Colline du Château (Castle Hill)
This is a must-see location for any first-time visitor to Nice. While there is no castle to be seen, the ruins of the defensive walls of Colline du Château are still visible. The 92m high rocky cliff overlooks the sea port and offers a stunning panoramic view of Nice, the port, the sea, and the mountains. The first Greek settlement, called Nikaia, was positioned atop the cliff. The castle, whose ruins still lie here, dates back to the 11th century. It was demolished at the request of Louis XIV in 1706. Located on the hill, visitors will find a beautiful waterfall and a children’s playground.
To reach Castle Hill, you can walk up from Old Town or you can take the free elevator located across the street from the sea port, next to Hôtel Suisse. A great option for families with little ones is the Petit Train (available in 8 languages). The electric train can be accessed at the Centennial monument on Promenade des Anglais and gives you a tour of the city of Nice while aboard. The entire circuit takes 50 minutes and stops for 10 minutes atop Castle Hill to allow for pictures of the gorgeous view.
Promenade du Paillon (Coulée Verte Niçoise)
This is a 12 hectare park located right in downtown Nice and is an excellent location for a picnic lunch. It is built over a hidden river and runs from the Promenade des Anglais, crosses the Place Masséna, and ends at the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC). Inaugurated in 2013, the beautiful park is home to hundreds of trees, shrubs, and plants, offering shade, fresh air, and garden pathways. A huge reflecting pool that lights up with a thousand lights each evening is one of the fun features that makes this location a welcoming destination from dawn until dusk.
The park is also a gathering place for families, providing playground facilities with whimsical equipment. There’s a climbing rope, trampolines built into the ground, a pirate ship, water jets, misters, and even a river flowing through. Our girls loved climbing a jungle gym shaped like a giant whale skeleton. They also met some local kids who were happy to play with them. (Nothing overcomes a language barrier better than children at play.) It also plays host to events like the Nice Jazz Festival. Even teenagers are known to hang out here in certain spots.
Carousels
Nice boasts, not one, but three carousels scattered throughout the city! One is located at the end of the Promenade du Paillon, facing the Mediterranean Sea. Another is located at the Place Garibaldi, and the last is at the Gare du Sud. These carousels are a great attraction for families with kids and are particularly beautiful after sunset.
Beaches
There are a number of beautiful beaches in and near Nice where you can enjoy some sun and fun as a family. There are both public and private beaches along the Nice coastline. Some of the nice private beaches also have beach clubs.
The pebble beaches around Nice are beautiful, but they’re not the sandy beaches you might be used to. There will be no sandcastle building or lazy walks along the soft sand. The pebbles can get quite hot and they can make getting around barefoot quite uncomfortable.
We recommend some type of water shoe or sandal that can be worn into the water to make swimming and walking around more pleasant. (The adults in our family love our Teva sandals and find that they’re great for everything from pebble beaches, to hiking, to going out for dinner.) The plus side is that you won’t spend your day trying to shake the sand off of your skin (and out of your bathing suit).
Here are just a few to consider:
Opéra Plage – You’ll find both a public space and a private beach with a restaurant at this location. It is the oldest private beach in Nice. Since 1889, the Maiffret family has welcomed visitors with a staff whose goal it is to meet all your needs. It’s located near the old town and is open mid-March through October. A half day admission to the private beach includes a deck chair and parasol for 20 euros.
Plage Beau Rivage – This public beach, located along Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, is the largest in town. You’ll also find an adjacent private beach, restaurant, and lounge bar where the beach team is eager to serve. Cabanas, parasols, and beach chairs can be rented over the phone and lockers are available to stow your belongings while you enjoy the beach.
Bocca Mar – Located in front of the Bay of Angels, this private beach offers a lounge and restaurant. Deckchairs are available for rent from 10am to 6:30pm and may be booked online.
Centenaire Beach – This is a public beach located near the Prom du Paillon. It is wheelchair accessible and one of two non-smoking beaches. This is also one of only four beaches that have installed ropes making it easier to navigate getting across the sometimes steep incline of small rocks when getting in and out of the water.
Castel Beach – This public beach is located at the base of Castle Hill, near the sea port. The stones here are the largest, making it a bit uncomfortable for walking, but the water is a bit calmer. Despite our off-season visit, one of my favorite memories in Nice was sitting on Castel Beach after sunset and admiring the beautiful lights of the city while listening to the melodic and mesmerizing sounds the pebbles made as the waves washed in and out across them.
Villefranche-sur-Mer – A 15 minute bus ride from downtown Nice offers something none of the Nice beaches can - SAND! The entire coastline in Villefranche-sur-Mer is open to the public with no admission fee. Some warn that the water isn’t nearly as clean due to the number of boats in the nearby bay so that may be a trade-off you’ll need to consider.
Place Massena
La Place Masséna is Nice’s main square, and it is crossed by the Promenade du Paillon. Its checkerboard pavement tiles are contrasted with the bright citrus-red color of the surrounding buildings, making it a stunning place to sit and relax near the fountains and watch the people strolling by.
The central focal point is a fountain that depicts a story from Greek mythology. In the center of the fountain is a 7m high statue of Apollo, the god of sun and light. Place Massena is one of many popular places to grab an iconic photograph of Nice. It’s also a pedestrian area that is known for the best shopping in Nice. The Tramway begins here, connecting the downtown area of Nice to the suburbs on either side. A single ride on the tramway costs about 1.50 euro, but a 10 day pass goes for about 10.00 euro.
At night, the square comes alive when Jaume Plensa’s seven statues are lit up with a sequence of changing colors. These sculptures of seven different kneeling men, sitting high upon poles overlooking the square, were created to represent the seven continents coming together in peace. Together, they are called “Conversation in Nice.”
Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas
Nice was once a favorite destination for Russian Tsars—there are still 3 Orthodox Cathedrals around the city. The Cathedral of Saint Nicholas is considered one of the top attractions of Nice. It is the largest Russian Orthodox place of worship outside the administrative and political confines of Russia. On top of that, it is a national monument and a landmark of the architectural landscape of Nice.
The cathedral was built in the early 20th century with the support of Tsar Nicholas II. It was named for Tsarevich Nicolai, the oldest son of Tsar Alexander II who died in Nice in 1865, at the age of 22, from tuberculosis. The ornate exterior of this onion domed building is a clear mark of the Russian architectural style, the cathedral being easily distinguishable in Nice as an atypical structure. The inside contains a vast collection of icons, decorative woodwork, and items of huge historical value, in part moved from Russia to Nice during the troubled times of the Russian Civil War.
Old Town
The historic Vieux Nice is not to be missed. The very heart of Old Town is Place Rossetti, the beautiful town square. Among the decorative buildings with intricately carved decorations and flower draped balconies that line the narrow streets, you’ll find shops, restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and street performers. From here, you can walk up to Castle Hill, enjoy a few hours at Palais Lascaris, access the Opera House, or enjoy the beautiful baroque architecture of Chapelle de la Miséricorde.
Port Lympia
Located in the Old Town area is the Old Port of Nice and it is worth the time to take a walk around. With its colorful fishing boats and impressive yachts, surrounded by pastel buildings, the port also offers a stunning view of Castle Hill and the rest of Nice.
It is actually one the main harbors in the French Riviera for the boats which sail across the Mediterranean Sea. It accommodates both the ships operated by certain ferry companies and the private yachts of tourists who come to Nice by sea, on their own water craft. For our day in Old Town, we actually parked near the port and strolled around, taking in the beautiful boats and admiring the city from a new perspective.
Afterwards, we made the somewhat steep 300 step ascent up to Castle Hill to enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the sea. (Families with small children may want to take the free elevator that is located a bit further from the port, instead.)
The Museums of Nice
Nice is host to a number of museums. If you have kids, you’re in luck because the museums offer free admission to kids under the age of 18! For the adults, we suggest the museum pass which will give you 4 days of admission to all 10 museums. Here’s a list of the museums included in the pass:
Musée Matisse – The painter, Henri Matisse, made his home in Nice from 1917 until his death in 1954 at the age of 84. His work is displayed in a building that has its own rich history. The original Genoese style villa was completed in 1695. Over the centuries, the Garin villa underwent continued renovations and property improvements making it into the impressive landmark that it is today.
In 1950, the City of Nice acquired the property in an effort to preserve the site and renamed it “Villa des Arènes.” In 1963, the Archaeological Museum opened on the ground floor and the Matisse Museum on the upper floor (thanks to a generous donation made by Matisse’s heirs). In 1989, the Archeological Museum relocated to the neighboring site. The Matisse Museum was renovated, expanded, and reopened in June 1993. It displays several dozen paintings, drawings, prints, photos, and sculptures by the artist.
Musée Masséna – Opened in 1921, this museum presents the history of Nice and the entire region. It was once the winter residence of Prince Essling, grandson of one of the greatest generals of Napoleon, André Masséna. It was built in the years 1898 – 1901 in the Italian neoclassical style. Visitors are able to stroll through the rooms, including the dining room with a view of the garden, an office with a library, and a huge living room with 19th century paintings. Among the paintings are some that depict Napoleon Bonaparte in coronation dress and in historical battles. You’ll also find several pieces of memorabilia that belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte.
Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain (MAMAC) – This contemporary museum features 1,300 works of art by more than 300 artists. The building itself is an interesting design. You’ll find works representing European New Realism, Minimalism, and American Pop Art.
Musée des Beaux-Arts Jules Chéret – This museum is located in a former private mansion, built in 1878 by Ukrainian Princess Elisabeth Vassilievna Kotschoubey. It is named for artist Jules Chéret who spent his final years in Nice. It houses the artist's work, along with those of several other artists. You’ll also find a few ceramic pieces by Pablo Picasso.
Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre – This museum is located in Old Town in an old power plant. It is named after Charles Nègre, a pioneering French photographer. One of the missions of the museum is to compile a collection of photographs of Nice and the surrounding region. In addition to the museum, the adjoining gallery hosts several temporary exhibits throughout the year.
Musée d’Archéologie de Nice / Cimiez – This museum, located next to Musée Matisse, was inaugurated in 1989 and it is dedicated to the ancient history of Nice. Its collections range from Antiquity to the Middle Ages. It also includes an open-air portion where visitors can see the ruins of the Roman Baths and a Gallo-Roman baptistry.
Musée International d’Art Naïf Anatole Jakovsky – This museum is located in the Château Sainte Hélène, the former residence of perfume master François Coty. The collection covers the history of Naïve painting from the 18th century to the present day. Naïve art usually refers to art made by artists who have had no formal training.
Musée de Préhistoire de Terra Amata – This museum, which is sometimes referred to as “the caveman museum,” presents the way of life for the oldest known inhabitants in human history. It was at Terra Amata, in Nice, where the oldest organized fireplaces in the world were discovered. Traces of large huts, dating back 400,000 years, are believed to have been constructed by the Homo erectus ancestor.
Musée d’Histoire Naturelle – This museum, which was founded in 1846, is one of the oldest museums in Nice. It offers a walk-through experience through thousands of exhibits meant to display the biodiversity of the Alpes-Maritime area.
Palais Lascaris – This museum offers both permanent and temporary exhibits along with an incredible collection of ancient musical instruments (2nd largest collection in France). Located inside a baroque style “palace” built in the early 1600’s, visitors will be treated to intricate architectural features and beautifully restored rooms with furniture from the medieval age.
L’Artistique – This is Nice’s second modern art museum. It takes a fun and whimsical approach with some quite interesting works. It is a relatively small building, but admission is free and it is located near the MAMAC so you can likely fit it in on the same day.
Another option to experience Nice with your family is to use vetted, professional guides. The two most trusted guide platforms are GetYourGuide and Viator. Why use a guide?
Professional guides eliminate the stress of planning, allowing you to:
Skip long lines at popular attractions like the Marc Chagall Museum
Discover hidden family-friendly beaches away from the crowds
Join specially designed tours where guides engage children with fascinating stories and interactive experiences
From exploring the colorful markets of Cours Saleya to discovering hidden spots in the Old Town (Vieux Nice), these experiences are designed with families in mind. Book with GetYourGuide or Viator today and create memories your family will cherish forever.
Why plan your next family vacation alone, when you can tap into the wisdom of those who have “been there, done that!”
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Fun Activities for Kids Near Nice: Age-by-Age Guide
For Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 0–4)
Promenade du Paillon's Mirror Fountain: Let little ones splash in the 128 water jets that create a magical mist
City Carousels: Visit all three historic carousels across Nice (locations at Promenade du Paillon, Place Garibaldi, and Gare du Sud)
Parc Phoenix (sometimes referred to as Phoenix park): Perfect for young children with its petting zoo, playground, and colorful botanical garden
This is a beautiful nature park/arboretum that opened on the Prom in 1990. Over the years, it has grown to include a petting zoo, orchid garden, aquarium, kiddie park, fountains, and climb-through treetop adventure park. Kids under 11 get free admission to the park. The park is open year-round, only closing on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Plage Centenaire: The most toddler-friendly beach with rope guides for water entry
For School-Age Kids (Ages 5–12)
Musée de Préhistoire de Terra Amata: The "caveman museum" is fascinating for curious minds
Petit Train: The 50-minute narrated tour is perfect for kids who need a break from walking
Castle Hill Playground: After enjoying the panoramic views, let kids burn energy at the playground
Saint Cezaire Grotto: The fluorescent waterfall and cave formations are magical for this age group. Located between Cannes and Grasse, this grotto is nestled in the heart of a 6-hectare wooded park.
You can discover the cave and explore to a depth of over 40 meters. The 200-meter journey wanders through stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations that are over 6 million years old! The guided tour lasts about 40 minutes and includes a 17-meter-high fluorescent waterfall. It’s a beautiful underground adventure and a great place to cool off during a hot day.
For Teens (Ages 13+)
Antibes Land: Thrill-seeking older kids will love the roller coasters and rides. Located between Nice and Cannes, this amusement park, featuring giant roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions for every age, is a great place for the whole family to enjoy some fun together.
Aquasplash: This water park, which is located just a short drive away in Antibes, is a great place for the entire family to cool off on a hot day. With water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, all ages can enjoy the park.
Musée Matisse: Many teens appreciate the bold colors and modern art
Shopping in Place Masséna: Fashion-conscious teens will enjoy browsing the shops
Where to Eat with Kids in Nice
Finding restaurants that please both parents and children can be challenging, but Nice offers plenty of family-friendly options to satisfy all types of taste buds:
Chez Pipo (13 Rue Bavastro):
Famous for authentic socca (chickpea pancakes) that kids love. Casual atmosphere and reasonable prices make it perfect for families.
La Petite Maison (11 Rue Saint-François de Paule):
While more upscale, this restaurant welcomes children and offers a simplified menu for younger diners. Their pasta dishes are particularly kid-friendly.
Fenocchio (2 Place Rossetti):
Not a restaurant, but this legendary ice cream parlor offers 94+ flavors and is a must-visit treat for families. Located in the heart of Old Town.
Lou Pilha Leva (10 Rue du Collet):
This casual spot offers socca, pizza, and other local specialties at affordable prices. The outdoor seating is perfect for families who need space.
Picnic Options:
For budget-friendly meals, pick up supplies at the Cours Saleya market (Tuesday-Sunday mornings) and enjoy a picnic lunch at Promenade du Paillon or Castle Hill.
Parent Tip: Many restaurants in Nice don't open for dinner until 7:30pm, which can be late for younger children. Consider making lunch your main meal of the day or pack snacks for hungry kids in the early evening.
Special Events in Nice
Nice hosts a slew of events, festivals, sporting events, and concerts throughout the year. There are some, however, that attract an abundance of tourists from all over the world. If you plan to be in town during these events, you’ll want to plan ahead for your accommodations and do a little research to make sure you have the best possible experience. Here are some annual events in Nice:
Winter in Nice
As far as Christmas markets go, the Nice "Village de Noel", is the biggest Christmas market in the South of France and is found in the central Jardin Albert 1er. It incorporates an ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel, and delicious special Christmas foods and drinks.
The Nice Christmas market is themed around an alpine village and you will see the stalls, located in 60 French mountain chalets, and an alpine forest, constructed from over 600 pine trees. The pièce de résistance is the Christmas lights and decorations along the Promenade des Anglais. This year’s market runs from November 28th, 2025 to January 1st, 2026 and is open from 11am to 8pm. Papa Noël takes a break from his busy Christmas schedule to make an appearance each evening from 2-7pm, beginning mid-December through Christmas Eve.
Carnaval de Nice
One of the biggest events of the year is the Nice Carnival. This festival, which takes place each February, has been held for over 140 years and is one of the largest in the world. It is the largest winter event along the entire Côte d’Azur, attracting over one million tourists to the area annually!
The Carnival begins on a Friday evening in Masséna Square with the entrance of the huge King of Carnival puppet. The Light Parade is one of the highlights of the multi-day event. Huge grandstands are set up for the public at the center point in Masséna Square. A colorful procession passes while everyone dances to the music.
You’ll also want to indulge in a Carnaval favorite—Ganses are commonly known as beignets de carnaval (carnival doughnuts). They are a delicious fried pastry with a mouth-watering texture infused with orange blossom water. They are served warm, generously dusted with confectioners sugar.
Nice Jazz Fest
Each August, the city of Nice hosts a jazz festival. The inaugural festival, back in 1948, featured Louis Armstrong and his All Stars as the headliners. It was the first jazz festival to bring together, in one place, the best jazz talent from all over the world. This year the two stages, the Massena and the Verdure, will hold 24 concerts over the 4 days of the festival.
Marathon des Alpes-Maritimes
In November each year, runners of all backgrounds, beginners to pros, gather in Nice for the events of the French Riviera Nice-Cannes Marathon. In addition to the marathon, athletes will compete in a 2x21k, 20k, and a Marathon Relay (for teams of 3, 4, 5, or 6). The course for the featured event is widely considered one of the most beautiful routes in the world!
Cannes Film Festival
While this event is not actually in Nice, visitors will be impacted by much larger crowds who are coming to the area for the festival, so you’ll want to be aware and plan accordingly. The first festival took place in 1946, but the idea for it dates back even further. The first festival was scheduled to take place in September of 1939. The father of cinematography, Louis Lumière was to be the honorary president. However, the early events of World War II put those plans on indefinite hold. When the first event was finally held, the industry was ready to celebrate and it has been a favorite event for celebrities ever since.
Day Trips From Nice
Nice is incredibly well-positioned to serve as a home base for your exploration all around the French Riviera. If you’re staying for a while and are interested in venturing out of town, there are some nearby locations that would provide a wonderful day trip. Here are some of our suggestions:
Antibes
Located between Nice and Cannes, Antibes offers beautiful beaches and a quaint Old Town. The ride from Nice takes only about 30 minutes by car. It is also only a 15 minute train ride (trains depart every 20 minutes). It is worth the trip to explore the winding cobblestone streets lined with pastel buildings and flowers. You’ll also find a museum dedicated to Pablo Picasso who fell in love with this little town.
Cannes
Located just a 35 minute drive from Nice is Cannes, home to the world’s most famous film festival. This walkable city has much to explore. From shopping on Rue d’Antibes, to the Chemin des Étoiles with handprints of celebrities who have visited for the festival, to the Église Notre-Dame-d’Espérance and its panoramic view, it’s definitely worth your time.
You could also visit Musée de la Mer on Sainte-Marguerite Island, off the coast of Cannes (you’ll have to take a boat trip). It is a former prison that held the infamous “Man in the Iron Mask” and has some parts of Roman shipwrecks that were found in the bay.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
This town is located east of Nice and you can actually walk there. If you want to hop on the bus, the ride will take about 10 minutes. This town has a beautiful sandy beach, in contrast to most of the pebble beaches along this stretch of the French Riviera. You can explore the colorful Old Town with its red tile roofed buildings overlooking the sea. One popular attraction is the Rue Obscure (Dark Street). It’s a 430 foot long walkway that travels under the village buildings. It was built in the 13th century to allow soldiers to move easily through the village. The Promenade des Marinières, located beachside, is a great place to grab a lunch of fresh mussels and regional wine.
Menton
Menton lies to the east of Nice on the border of Italy. It has recently grown in popularity to become a favorite for visitors. Its pastel colored buildings, quaint Old Town, and beautiful water views make it a gorgeous spot to spend the day. It can be reached, by train, from Nice in about 40 minutes. A 10 minute walk from the station will have you at the waterfront where you can stroll on the Promenade du Soleil.
Menton’s Old Town is set on a hilltop so be sure to wear some comfortable shoes so you can climb the hill and explore the cobblestone streets. The Vieux Château cemetery will allow you to see the final resting place of a few Russian princes and will offer a stunning view over the sea and into Italy. Menton is known for their citrus, so you’ll have a good excuse to sample some lemon or mandarin gelato.
Monaco
Our favorite day trip from Nice was to Monaco. We took our car and enjoyed the 45 minute drive but could’ve easily taken a train instead. (In fact, that would probably be our preference in the future due to the steep, winding streets.) We visited the Prince’s Palace and the Musée Océanographique de Monaco. We also got to experience the set-up and decorations for a festival that was taking place for National Day of Monaco a few days after our visit.
The Best Time to Visit Nice with Kids
We recommend visiting Nice during either spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). These shoulder seasons offer the best balance of pleasant weather, fewer tourists, better deals on accommodations, and a fair range of activities.
Our November visit allowed us to be comfortable in lightweight pants and long sleeve shirts or a t-shirt with a light jacket in the evenings.
However, if you want to attend Carnaval or relax on the beach during the summer, expect large crowds, higher prices, and more traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nice with Kids
Is Nice, France kid-friendly?
Yes, Nice is an excellent destination for families with children of all ages. With its Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, numerous parks, and free museums for kids under 18, Nice offers a wide range of activities that both parents and children will enjoy.
What's the best beach in Nice for kids?
Centenaire Beach is the most family-friendly beach in Nice. It has rope guides for easier water entry over the pebbles and is a non-smoking beach. If you prefer sand, take the 15-minute bus ride to Villefranche-sur-Mer.
How many days should we spend in Nice with kids?
We recommend at least 3-4 days in Nice itself, plus additional days if you plan to take day trips to Monaco, Antibes, or other nearby attractions. This gives you time to enjoy the beaches, museums, and local atmosphere without rushing.
Is Nice stroller-friendly?
Nice is moderately stroller-friendly. The Promenade des Anglais and newer areas of the city have smooth surfaces and are easy to navigate with a stroller. However, Old Town (Vieux Nice) has narrow cobblestone streets that can be challenging. The tramway is stroller-friendly with level boarding, making it easy to get around the city with young children.
Why Visit Nice with Kids?
Nice isn’t just a glamorous destination for celebrities and sunseekers, it’s an incredible place for families to explore, unwind, and create lasting memories! From the moment we arrived, we found ourselves swept up in the magic of this family-friendly city. Whether it was our long walks from our Airbnb, climbing to the top of Castle Hill, wandering through the charming Old Town, or soaking up the sunshine along the Promenade du Paillon, there was always something to explore. We even made time for a family day trip to Monaco, adding yet another unforgettable adventure to our journey.
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And here’s the truth: Even after extending our stay (by 4 days), we still weren’t ready to leave. As we drove west through Antibes and Cannes, we found ourselves stopping again and again, reluctant to say goodbye to the stunning French Riviera.
So, what about you? Have you ever dreamed of spending time in the South of France? What’s holding you back? Your adventure is waiting and Nice is ready to welcome your family!
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Family selfie from atop Castle Hill overlooking the coastline of Nice
