Nice Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Nice
This itinerary focuses on creating memorable family experiences in Nice with a balance of free activities and exciting attractions. It leverages Nice's beautiful public spaces and family-friendly museums, keeping budget in mind. Public transport (tram, bus) is efficient, and many attractions are walkable.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Play at Paillon
Explore the Promenade du Paillon, a large urban park in the heart of Nice, featuring expansive green spaces, a popular 'Water Mirror' with 128 ground nozzles spraying mist and water jets, and a fantastic marine-animal themed playground.
Kids can climb on wooden dolphins, manta rays, and a 30-meter whale structure.
Ideal for all ages, especially 3-12. The playground has cushioned ground and a gated fence for safety. Bring grip socks for climbing structures. Public toilets are available (for a fee) nearby. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Easily accessible by tram (Lines 1 & 2 to 'Masséna' stop) or a short walk from many central Nice locations. Stroller-friendly paths throughout the park.
Vieux Nice Stroll & Dinner
Wander through the charming, narrow cobblestone streets of Old Nice (Vieux Nice).
Admire the brightly painted buildings, discover hidden squares like Place Rossetti, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Look for street performers and enjoy window shopping. Afterwards, find a casual, family-friendly restaurant for dinner.
Suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy the vibrant colors and spotting fountains. Many shops sell local treats like gelato. Duration: 2 hours (including dinner).
Vieux Nice is pedestrian-friendly. Accessible by tram (Line 1 to 'Cathédrale - Vieille Ville' or 'Opéra Vieille Ville' stops). Parking can be found in underground car parks nearby (e.g., Parking Sulzer). Strollers are possible but can be challenging on some crowded or very narrow streets.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Parc Phoenix Discovery
Spend the morning at Parc Phoenix, a 7-hectare botanical garden and zoo.
Explore one of Europe's largest tropical greenhouses with diverse plants, and observe exotic animals such as lemurs, wallabies, and flamingos. The park also features several playgrounds for children.
Excellent for all children (3-12). Features include themed gardens, a lake, and dedicated play areas. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Accessible by tram (Line 2 to 'Parc Phœnix' stop) or bus (e.g., line 620 to 'Parc Phoenix' stop). Parking is available nearby.
Park Picnic
Enjoy a casual, budget-friendly picnic lunch within the expansive grounds of Parc Phoenix.
The park allows visitors to bring their own food, and there are many pleasant spots to sit and eat amidst the greenery. Alternatively, there is a café and snack stand on-site.
Perfect for families to relax and refuel. Check park guidelines for outside food. Duration: 1 hour.
Within Parc Phoenix, no additional transport needed.
Castle Hill Views & Play
Ascend Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for breathtaking panoramic views of Nice, the Promenade des Anglais, and the Baie des Anges. Explore the remnants of the medieval fortress, enjoy the shaded picnic areas, and let the kids play at the dedicated playground near the summit.
Suitable for all ages. There are playgrounds available. The ascent can be done via a free elevator, or by walking paths. Duration: 2 hours.
Access the free elevator at the end of the Promenade des Anglais, near Quai des États-Unis. Alternatively, walk up the steps or a winding road.
Carousel Fun
Enjoy a classic carousel ride, a timeless activity that young children especially love.
There is a beautiful carousel located near the entrance of Promenade du Paillon.
Best for younger children (3-8 years old). Short duration activity, typically a few minutes per ride.
Easily walkable from Castle Hill or Promenade du Paillon. Public transport to Place Masséna.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Cours Saleya Market
Immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of the famous Cours Saleya Market in Old Nice.
On Sundays, it hosts a vibrant flower, fruit, and vegetable market. Kids can enjoy the colorful displays and perhaps pick out a local treat or fresh fruit.
Engaging for all ages. The food section typically runs until 1:30 PM, and flower stalls may stay longer. It's a public market with free access. Duration: 1.5 hours.
Located in pedestrian-friendly Old Nice. Accessible by tram (Line 1 to 'Opéra Vieille Ville' or 'Cathédrale - Vieille Ville' stops).
Villa Masséna Visit
Visit the Villa Masséna Museum, a beautiful Belle Époque villa showcasing the history and art of Nice.
Children under 18 receive free admission, making it a budget-friendly cultural outing. The museum features lush gardens for a pleasant stroll.
Suitable for families interested in history and beautiful architecture. The gardens offer space for children. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Located on the Promenade des Anglais, easily accessible by walking or bus. Parking available nearby in underground car parks.
Relax at the Beach
Conclude your weekend with some relaxed family time at one of Nice's public beaches along the Promenade des Anglais.
While Nice is known for its pebbly beaches, the clear waters are inviting. Kids can enjoy skimming stones or simply enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Good for all ages. Bring water shoes for comfort on the pebbles. Supervised swimming areas may be available. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Easily accessible from the city center by walking, bus, or tram (Line 2 to 'Centre Universitaire Méditerranéen' or 'Jean Médecin' then walk towards the sea).
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