Nice Weekend Activities & Things to Do

Promenade Playgrounds

Head to the famous Promenade du Paillon, Nice's green urban park, which features innovative playgrounds designed for various age groups, including a giant climbing whale, octopus swings, and mini-trampolines.

It's a fantastic spot for kids to burn off some energy after school.

Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12. The park has distinct play areas for younger and older children. There are also water jets that might be operational depending on the weather, though less likely in January. Public restrooms are available. Stroller accessible paths throughout. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.

Illusion Museum Fun

Dive into the captivating world of illusions at Illusion Nice, a museum packed with optical illusions and magic tricks.

It's an engaging and interactive experience that will challenge perceptions and create amazing photo opportunities for the whole family.

Ideal for children aged 7-12, but younger children (under 7 are free with an adult) will also enjoy the visual spectacle. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the visit. The museum is indoors, making it a great option regardless of weather. Booking ahead helps skip lines. Restrooms available. Stroller accessible.

Parc Phoenix Exploration

Spend the morning at Parc Phoenix, a 7-hectare botanical garden and zoo.

Explore the impressive 'Diamant Vert' tropical greenhouse with its diverse ecosystems, exotic birds, and an aquarium. Kids will love seeing the wallabies, lemurs, and crocodiles, and can burn off energy in the extensive children's play area.

Highly recommended for all ages (3-12). Children under 12 enter for free, making it incredibly budget-friendly for families. The park offers picnic areas and a snack bar. Baby changing facilities and stroller access are available. Allow 2.5 - 3 hours. On-site there's also Nissa'venture, a climbing adventure park, available for an additional fee if kids want an extra thrill.

Riverside Lunch & Play

Enjoy a relaxed, budget-friendly picnic lunch within the expansive green spaces of Parc Phoenix or at one of the snack bars.

After lunch, let the kids continue to play in the park's dedicated children's areas or explore the tranquil lake with its aquatic birds.

Perfect for a mid-day break. There are plenty of shaded spots for a picnic. The snack bar offers sandwiches, burgers, and ice cream if you prefer not to pack. Conveniently located restrooms are available. Duration: 1.5 hours.

Castle Hill Views & Play

Ascend Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for breathtaking panoramic views of Nice, the Baie des Anges, and the port. While no castle remains, there's a beautiful waterfall, ruins, and a fantastic fenced playground at the top that kids will love.

Great for kids aged 3-12, offering both active play and stunning photo opportunities. You can take a free elevator up from Promenade des Anglais or climb the stairs for more adventurous families. Restrooms are available near the playground. The playground is inclusive. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.

Old Town Sweet Treat

Wind down the day with an early dinner or a special treat in Nice's charming Old Town (Vieux Nice).

Explore the colorful, narrow streets and treat the kids to gelato from Fenocchio, known for its incredible variety of flavors.

Kids love the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town and the excitement of choosing unique ice cream flavors. Many family-friendly restaurants offer early dinner options. Public restrooms can be found in various spots throughout Old Town. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.

Ice Skating Garden

Experience the 'Jardin de Glace' (Ice Garden) at Patinoire Jean Bouin, an Olympic ice rink offering a fun course specifically designed for children aged 2 to 8.

It's a fantastic opportunity for your little ones to discover the joys of ice skating in a safe and engaging environment.

Perfect for younger children, especially those new to ice skating. Gloves and pants are mandatory for safety and warmth. Equipment rental (skates, sledges) is available. Free for children under 4. Arrive early for a less crowded experience. Restrooms and changing facilities are available. Duration: 2 - 2.5 hours.

Cours Saleya Market

After ice skating, immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Cours Saleya Market.

On Sundays, it's a lively flower and food market where kids can marvel at colorful blooms and discover local produce. It's a great place to pick up some affordable, fresh snacks for lunch.

A sensory experience for kids with all the sights and smells. It can get crowded, so keep a close eye on little ones. Many vendors offer local delicacies to sample. Restrooms are available in nearby cafes or public facilities. Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours.

Promenade Stroll & Beach Play

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais.

Let the kids collect pebbles on the famous pebbly beach, watch the waves, or simply enjoy the vast open space for a final run around before the weekend ends.

A perfect relaxed activity to wind down the weekend. Remember the beach is pebbly, so water shoes might be useful if kids want to explore closer to the water (though water activity is unlikely in January). There are many benches for parents to relax. Public restrooms are intermittently available along the promenade. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.