Are you considering visiting Nice in winter but unsure if there’s enough to do to keep you busy? Then this guide is exactly what you need to plan your low-season getaway!
Nice doesn’t hibernate. In fact, the city was a famed winter resort long before it became a summer hotspot. And to this day, this winter-worthy destination still has lots to offer during the off-season.
Whether you’re into art, events, or outdoor activities, this experience-based guide lays out everything you need to know about experiencing winter in Nice. It also includes plenty of photos from my most recent winter trips to Nice.
So, are you ready to discover weather trends, packing tips, and an overview of the top things to do in Nice in winter? Let’s go!
This article zooms in on the winter weather in Nice and highlights what to do in Nice in winter, while also providing plenty of expert travel tips.
Affiliate links are sprinkled throughout the site content. Clicking on such a hyperlink and making a booking on the accommodation platform it refers to may result in a commission for Nice & Beyond at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit the Disclaimer page.
My Top Picks
Top reasons for visiting Nice in winter
There’s a reason UNESCO recognized Nice as the Winter Resort Town of the Riviera: the city truly shines during the off-season.
While sunbathing might not be in the cards, winter offers mild weather and sunny days perfect for exploring, and unique seasonal events that bring the city to life. Add to that fewer crowds, lower accommodation rates, delicious cuisine, and plenty of Mediterranean flair. The result is a Mediterranean getaway that combines active adventures with cultural experiences in a way that’s only possible during these quieter months.
I love the slower pace of life during the winter season in Nice because you get to see and do more without overloading your itinerary. Also, the fact that you don’t have to book restaurants in advance, allows for more spontaneity. That’s a luxury compared to the high season in Nice.
The only con may be the fact that it gets dark pretty soon. While that can interfere with sightseeing, it does make the evenings nice and cozy.
weather in Nice during winter
Nice enjoys one of the mildest winter climates in France, with winter temperatures typically averaging around 6°C (43°F) for lows and 14°C (57°F) for highs.
Here’s a month-by-month overview based on the data provided by the French Meteorological Service:
A generous dose of sunshine offers the perfect opportunity to explore Nice and take day trips to nearby towns. When I was last there in the second half of December, I enjoyed lunch and pre-dinner cocktails on the terrace under a warming winter sun.
Daylight hours are between 8 am and 5 pm in December and from 7:15 am to 6:15 pm in February.
What to Pack for Nice in Winter
Nice winters call for layers. A warm sweater and coat will usually suffice. I feel cold quickly yet on a typical winter day in Nice, I can do without gloves. That goes for daytime and evenings.
Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the cobblestone streets in the Old Town (Vieux Nice) and nearby hiking trails.
You only need a swimsuit if you’re planning a spa day… or if you are thinking of joining the brave souls who take a daily dip in the Mediterranean throughout the year!
Things to do in Nice in winter
You’ll have plenty to look forward to when spending winter in Nice, from cultural escapades to active adventures. This curated list comprises all my favorite winter activities in Nice.
For a more general overview, from the market at Cours Saleya to the views from Castle Hill, you can also consult my article on the top things to do in Nice year-round. Oh, and stay tuned for my guide on visiting the wider French Riviera in winter.
Note that some landmarks might have closing days, so be sure to check the website of every attraction before planning your visit.
Psst… You’ll find a map showing all these wintry things to do in Nice further down in this article.
1. Hike around the cape
The stunning coastal path or sentier du littoral that wraps around the Cap de Nice offers some of the most spectacular winter hiking in the area.
It starts at Port Lympia in Nice and leads to Villefranche-sur-Mer. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden coves and impressive villas, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery.
The cooler temperatures and crisp winter air make this hike much more pleasant.
This is a shoreline path with waves crashing against the rocks below. For your safety, verify the water conditions before you head out.
2. Visit one of the art museums
Nice’s art museums provide perfect shelter on rainy winter days. Plus, winter brings shorter queues and special exhibitions.
There’s the Matisse Museum (Musée Matisse), housed in a 17th-century villa, surrounded by olive trees and Roman ruins in the Cimiez district. Nearby, you’ll also find the Chagall Museum (Musée National Marc Chagall) which houses the largest public collection of the artist’s religious works.
For a different experience, visit the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC). Conclude your visit with a stop at the rooftop with its panoramic views.
3. Cycle the Promenade des Anglais
Winter is ideal for cycling on Nice’s iconic seafront promenade. Fewer crowds mean you can appreciate the 7 km (4.3 mi) stretch without constantly dodging pedestrians.
The flat terrain makes this a suitable winter activity for all fitness levels. Enjoy the fresh air while soaking in the beautiful views over the Bay of Angels.
Electric rental bikes are available year-round. Two bike-sharing platforms are promoted by the city of Nice (and many other destinations on the Côte d’Azur): Lime and Pony. Lime bikes come with a large basket while Pony bikes are equipped with a rear passenger seat and footholds. Download the app of your choice, scan your bike, and you’re good to go.
4. Enjoy the Christmas Market
Every year from late November until 1 January, the Jardin Albert 1er transforms into a festive village. The Christmas market is the main event in Nice in December one of the highlights of the Nice winter season.
It features over 60 chalets selling everything from local specialties to handmade gifts. At the heart of the market stands a Ferris wheel that offers amazing views over the illuminated city.
Don’t miss the socca. This Niçois specialty, a chickpea pancake, is perfect for warming up on chilly evenings.
A beautiful Christmas parade, La Grande Parade de Noël, takes place on the first or second Sunday in December. For the exact dates, head over to my article about the Nice Christmas market.
5. Shop till you drop during the winter sales
The winter sales (les soldes d’hiver) usually run from early January to early February. The exact dates are announced on this page and in my Nice shopping guide.
Nice’s main shopping areas – the Avenue Jean Médecin, the Carré d’Or, and the Old Town boutiques – offer significant discounts on previous seasons’ collections. So do the shopping malls: Galeries Lafayette, Nicetoile, and Cap 3000.
Local tip: The best deals are often found in the first week, but prices continue to drop throughout the sales period. Many shops also offer additional discounts during quiet weekday mornings.
There’s another 3-day shopping event in Nice in Winter called Les Nice Carnaval Days that takes place during the final days of the Carnival festivities.
6. Create your own perfume at Molinard
There’s no need to head to Grasse to compose your signature scent. Historic perfume house Molinard has a boutique in Nice and offers fragrance-creation workshops throughout winter. These intimate sessions are less crowded than during peak season, allowing for more personalized attention from the nose (perfumer).
The workshops range from a 45-minute introductory session with a 30 ml bottle of perfume to a 1-hour workshop with a 50 ml bottle or a 2-hour workshop with a 90 ml bottle.
It makes for the perfect indoor activity on the occasional rainy winter day.
7. Watch the Nice Carnival parades
The Carnival of Nice brings the city to life in February. The main parade features elaborate floats and costumed performers, while the Flower Parade (Bataille de Fleurs) showcases the region’s floral abundance with performers throwing thousands of flowers to spectators.
During this two-week festival, Nice is transformed into a vibrant outdoor theater, with events happening day and night.
Note that the parades take place behind in a gated area and that you need pre-booked tickets to be allowed in. You can purchase your entrance tickets here.
8. Hike Mont Boron
Mont Boron’s forest park offers panoramic views over Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer. The winter months reveal Mediterranean flora in a different light, with wild herbs and pine trees enriching the crisp air.
The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all levels, with several viewpoints perfect for winter picnics on sunny days. Don’t miss the Fort du Mont Alban, which is less crowded during the off-season.
9. Tour a local wine house
Consider visiting the Bellet wine region, the hills just outside Nice, where several family-owned vineyards produce some excellent wines, particularly rosés.
Tours and tastings are organized year-round. Bookings are required. To get there, you need to rent a car or book a ride-share. Or, you could join this excellent wine tour.
The Bellet region is located in the hinterland The Bellet region produces some excellent wines, particularly rosés.
Winter is low season for wineries too, translating into more intimate tastings and more time with the vintners.
10. Tie your laces for the Prom Classic
The Prom Classic is a 10k run on the Promenade des Anglais on the first Saturday of January.
It features a breakfast run, an untimed, and a timed race. You’ll need to register in advance to join.
No more scenic location to put those good intentions into action.
11. Relax at the spa
Winter is ideal for indulging in Nice’s luxury spa experiences.
The Anantara Plaza Nice offers treatments inspired by Mediterranean wellness traditions, while Le Negresco‘s spa provides classic French beauty treatments in a historic setting.
The new Maison Albar Le Victoria‘s spa is quickly becoming a local favorite, with its indoor pool and hammam providing welcome warmth on winter days.
Most spas offer winter packages combining treatments with breakfast or lunch.
12. Buckle up your ski boots
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, hop on the ski bus and head to the mountains for some snow fun.
While Nice enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, the Alpes are just a short drive away. All it takes is a 2-hour ride to reach the snow-capped mountains. The most popular alpine resorts near Nice are Isola 2000, Auron, and La Colmiane.
The 100% Snow (100% Neige) bus service is operated by Lignes d’Azur, which provides all local public transport. The bus leaves early morning from the “Nice Vauban” bus station, near the Nice Riquier train station and Hotel NH Nice. The next stop is the “Grands Arénas” bus stop near the Nice Saint-Augustin train station and the airport. The bus returns late in the evening.
A return ticket costs €14 per person. You need to book in advance and can do so until noon the day before departure. More information can be found on this Lignes d’Azur webpage.
Regional bus network Zou also operates two ski buses that connect to the Valberg ski resort. One also leaves from the “Nice Vauban” bus station and Terminal 2 at the Nice – Côte d’Azur airport while the other one leaves from “Grands Arénas”.
Return tickets with Zou cost even less and the booking procedure is similar. Click here for more information.
FAQ on spending winter in Nice
Will you visit Nice next winter?
That’s it for this guide on spending winter in Nice. By now, you’re probably convinced that winter is the best time to visit Nice for seasonal events and active explorations with fewer crowds and low accommodation costs. I wish you an unforgettable winter getaway Nice!
Bookmark this page or pin it for future reference.
