Nice

Nice

Synonymous for decades with the words opulence, a sophistication and wealth, the French Riviera is the jewel of the Mediterranean Sea. Walk the Promenade des Anglais which borders the sea, and rub shoulders with royalty and film stars on golden beaches. Take a trip to Monte Carlo to see million dollar yachts in the most picturesque setting of Monte Carlo´s bay.

Attractions

The Old Town is a must to be explored. Its look has changed little since the 1700s. Narrow streets and winding alleys are lined with faded 17th- and 18th-century buildings. The famous flower market never ceases to delight visitors as well as residents. The Italian façades of modern Nice and early 20th-century residences, which made the city one of Europe’s most fashionable winter retreats, remain largely intact. Although not blessed with excellent beaches, its pebbled sands continue to attract scores of sun worshippers every year.

Activities

Musée National - Marc Chagall Established by the artist himself, the collection features the most important permanent exhibit of his work. The main focus is a series of 17 canvases comprising his colorful “Biblical Message.” The excellent use of space and light further enhances the featured paintings, sculptures and mosaics. Musée Matisse - Housed in a 17th-century Italian villa, the museum features exquisite paintings and bronzes by the great master. These works of art illustrate the different stages of Henri Matisse’s career and his development from the late 19th century to his death in 1954. Especially interesting are the sketches he made for his paintings in the Chapelle de Rosaire in Vence. This project was done by Matisse to thank resident nuns who nursed him back to health. Parc du Château - This large, shady public park is located on a 300-foot hill and offers beautiful views of the city and the sea. The château, after which the hill and park are named, was established in the 12th century, but razed in 1706 by Louis XIV. Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas - Located in the western part of the city, the multicolored cathedral crowned by six onion domes was built in the early 1900s in 17th-century style. It is one of the most elaborate and exotic structures in Nice. Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art - The museum specializes in French and American avant-garde artwork from the 1960s to the present. Its collection includes the work of Cesar,Warhol and Christo, to name a few. Anatole Jakovsky International Naïve Art MuseumDonated to the city by Mr. and Mrs. Anatole Jakovsky in 1982, the museum traces the progression of naïve art since the 18th century.

Shopping

Nice offers many shopping possibilities in both the Old Town (souvenirs and arts and crafts) and along the mid-town pedestrian zone (designer boutiques). A convenient place to find everything under one roof is the department store Galeries Lafayette.

Food

Nice is a great place for a meal ashore, whether snacking on Niçois specialties or dining in one of the fine restaurants. A strong Italian influence accounts for pasta dishes on many menus. Seafood is also a good choice. Popular snacks offered in many cafés are sandwiches with typical Provençal fillings such as fresh basil, olive oil and goat cheese. The Old Town features restaurants to suit any budget; sidewalk cafés are a great way to enjoy the cuisine as well as the ambiance. One of the most celebrated restaurants is the Chanteclerc at the Hotel Negresco.

Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of France.

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Sailing Calendar

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