Chloe Braithwaite

The French Riviera might be the international capital of luxury travel, but you don’t have to be super rich and wealthy to enjoy some fun in paradise. You can easily bask in the sun on a beautiful beach and not spend a single euro, and if you know the right spots, there are most certainly good towns for a budget. Brave the narrow, and sometimes steep, streets of Eze and marvel at the panoramic views from the mountainside village. Or coordinate your outfits with the bright and vibrant buildings in the medieval old town of Menton. Even if just for a day, embrace the life of luxury and leave with enough to fantasise about when you’re back at home. The best way to do it? Rent a car and tick each of them off on a colossal road trip. Sound good? We agree. Here are the best places to visit on the French Riviera.  When is the best time to visit? When planning your trip to the French Riviera, aim for spring or late summer, particularly September if you can avoid the crowds. RECOMMENDED:🏨 The best hotels in the South of France🇫🇷 The best places to visit in France🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Nice🏰 The prettiest villages in France This guide was last updated by Chloe Braithwaite, a writer based in Nice in the South of France. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more informatio

Heading to Nice this summer? You’re in luck. This lovely city isn’t just the gem of the Riviera for views, glamour and all sorts of wonderful things, it’s also packed full of brilliant restaurants. That’s 30-or-so Michelin-starred spots, a load of low-key bistros, and plenty of places in between.  On our list of the best restaurants in Nice, we’ve tried to include absolutely all of it. We’ve got a wine bar, a restaurant in an old laundrette, South African/French fusion cuisine and a whole lot more. Fine dining, French classics, and all the rest of it. Ready to get involved? Here are our top restaurants in Nice, right now.  Ready to book?🏨 The best hotels in Nice🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Nice Reviews and original photos by Chloé Braithwaite, a writer based in the south of France. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

In Nice, the sea is a way of life. Year-round, the Promenade des Anglais beckons locals to the shore, especially given the city’s abundance of sunshine. But the second Spring blooms and the cold winter breeze dies down, the private beaches unfurl their umbrellas and set up shop, while over on the public stretches of pebble, colourful towels carpet the hard TK, offering protection from the rocky surface. What is the closest sandy beach to Nice? But if it’s a sandy beach you’re after, the closest option you’ll find is Juan-les-Pins – and if you don’t mind the journey, it’s one of my favourite spots. The crystal-clear water quite literally sparkles thanks to the erosion of nearby minerals that flow down into the sea – tiny crystals that catch the light and glitter gold against the pale blue hues of the Med. 📍 Discover our essential guide to France This guide was updated by Chloe Braithwaite, a writer based in the South of France and an expert in all things French Riviera. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

I’ve lived in Nice in the south of France for years, and the longer I say, the more the city reveals itself. Sure, there’s the beach, the salade Niçoise, and that postcard-perfect Promenade, but what I love most is how Nice balances old Riviera glamour with everyday charm. From sunrise swims to hidden ateliers in Old Town, it’s a place that rewards curiosity and keeps you coming back. How many days do I need to explore Nice? While you can certainly get a taste of Nice in a day, you really need at least three if you want to do her justice. One day for Old Town and the waterfront, another for art museums and hilltop views, and one more to venture beyond: into the markets, to Villefranche or up to Cimiez. It’s the kind of city that settles into your skin, not just your itinerary. Ready to book?🏨 The best hotels in Nice🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Nice Reviews and original photos by Chloé Braithwaite, a writer based in Nice, in the south of France. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

La Riviera Francesa podría ser la capital internacional de los viajes de lujo, pero no tienes que ser súper rico para disfrutar de un poco de diversión en el paraíso. Es fácil disfrutar del sol en una playa fantástica sin gastar ni un solo euro y hay una montaña de pueblos bonitos para presupuestos ajustados -solo hay que saber dónde ir-. Atreveos a recorrer las estrechas y, a veces, empinadas calles de Eze y maravillaos con las vistas panorámicas desde el pueblo en la ladera de la montaña. O combinad vuestros modelitos con los edificios emblemáticos del casco antiguo medieval de Menton. Incluso si es solo para un día, abrazad la vida de lujo y regresad a casa con suficientes recuerdos como para fantasear con ellos. ¿La mejor manera de hacerlo? Alquilar un coche y tachar cada uno de la lista en un viaje colosal por carretera. ¿Suena bien? La verdad es que sí. Aquí están los mejores lugares para visitar en la Riviera Francesa. ¿Cuál es el mejor momento para viajar? Al planificar vuestro viaje a la Riviera Francesa, apuntad a la primavera o finales del verano, y si podéis evitar las multitudes, septiembre es el mejor mes, también cuando se trata de buscar las mejores gangas para el hospedaje en el sur. RECOMENDADO:🏘 ¿Os apetece explorar los pueblos con más encanto del sur Francia?🏖 Descubrid qué visitar en Francia🗼 ¿Pasáis por la capital? No os perdáis las mejores cosas que hacer en Paris🏡 Perdeos entre los pueblos con más encanto de Francia🏰 Pasad la noche en un Airbnb d

Please note: Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain is currently closed. Check back for updates! What’s the deal? MAMAC is bold, vibrant, and unapologetically modern. The Brutalist architecture is stark, housing an energetic mix of contemporary and pop art that reflects both the avant-garde spirit of the Riviera, and creative minds from across the world. It’s a lively, sometimes provocative space, where art feels accessible, fresh, and often surprising. Is it worth visiting? It’s the best place in Nice to dive into modern art. Stand-outs include Yves Klein and Niki de Saint Phalle. Plus, the rooftop offers great views over the city. 📍 Discover the best things to do in Nice

What’s the deal? Located in a 17th century villa surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and crumbling Roman ruins, the Musée Matisse feels like a deep exhale from city bustle. Inside, it’s all airy rooms and warm light—the perfect setting to explore the life and works of Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for nearly 40 years. Expect everything from early sketches to colourful cut-outs and personal possessions. Is it worth visiting? We’d go as far as to say Musée Matisse is a must-visit. It offers a peaceful, intimate glimpse into the creative world of the man himself, surrounded by tranquil gardens and light-filled spaces that influenced his most iconic works. It’s a rare blend of art and atmosphere that truly captures the spirit of Nice. 📍 Discover the best things to do in Nice

Please note: Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain is currently closed. Check back for updates! What’s the deal? MAMAC is bold, vibrant, and unapologetically modern. The Brutalist architecture is stark, housing an energetic mix of contemporary and pop art that reflects both the avant-garde spirit of the Riviera, and creative minds from across the world. It’s a lively, sometimes provocative space, where art feels accessible, fresh, and often surprising. Is it worth visiting? It’s the best place in Nice to dive into modern art. Stand-outs include Yves Klein and Niki de Saint Phalle. Plus, the rooftop offers great views over the city. 📍 Discover the best things to do in Nice

What’s the vibe? Polished but playful, Les Agitateurs is a chic little bistro just off the Port. Chef Samuel Vitori works exclusively with local suppliers to create dishes with the most charming names: the latest menu boasts layers for a tender heart, animal instinct, and with or without pits. The atmosphere is fresh and unfussy, with an open kitchen, natural light, and the buzz of locals and in-the-know visitors enjoying good food and good vibes. What should I order? The weekend set menu, while by no means a budget pick, is one of the best-value gourmet meals in town. Dishes are seasonal and often surprising: briny langoustine paired with fig leaves, for example, or a French-Japanese fusion of turnip, rice, fish, and dashi. 📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Charming and intimate, Le Bistrot de Jan is the relaxed sibling of the Michelin-starred JAN next door. Think rustic tables, candlelight, and friendly staff who’ll treat you like a regular, even on your first visit. The restaurant isn’t big, but it’s warm and ideal for quiet conversations. With its blend of French bistro comfort and South African flair, this is fine dining without the fuss. What should I order? If Bobotie is on the menu, don’t miss it. This spiced, oven-baked dish is rich, subtly sweet, and utterly comforting – a warm taste of South Africa.  📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Tucked right in the heart of Nice’s Old Town, le Bistrot de Serruriers is warm, worn-in, and old-world pretty. The stone walls keep the heat out in summer – or in in winter – while dark wood, second-hand furniture, and handwritten chalkboard menus feel timeless and lived-in. It’s the kind of place locals guard as a secret. The cooking is heartfelt and seasonal, and very local, while service is unfussy and kind. The wine list leans natural, local, and very drinkable.  What should I order? The seasonal menu changes frequently, but for a real taste of Nice, try les farcies Niçoises, stuffed vegetables, or the pissaladiere, a sweet, caramelised onion tart topped with olives and anchovies. Save room for dessert: they scoop the chocolate mousse onto your plate by the ladle. 📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Polished but playful, Les Agitateurs is a chic little bistro just off the Port. Chef Samuel Vitori works exclusively with local suppliers to create dishes with the most charming names: the latest menu boasts layers for a tender heart, animal instinct, and with or without pits. The atmosphere is fresh and unfussy, with an open kitchen, natural light, and the buzz of locals and in-the-know visitors enjoying good food and good vibes. What should I order? The weekend set menu, while by no means a budget pick, is one of the best-value gourmet meals in town. Dishes are seasonal and often surprising: briny langoustine paired with fig leaves, for example, or a French-Japanese fusion of turnip, rice, fish, and dashi. 📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Polished but playful, Les Agitateurs is a chic little bistro just off the Port. Chef Samuel Vitori works exclusively with local suppliers to create dishes with the most charming names: the latest menu boasts layers for a tender heart, animal instinct, and with or without pits. The atmosphere is fresh and unfussy, with an open kitchen, natural light, and the buzz of locals and in-the-know visitors enjoying good food and good vibes. What should I order? The weekend set menu, while by no means a budget pick, is one of the best-value gourmet meals in town. Dishes are seasonal and often surprising: briny langoustine paired with fig leaves, for example, or a French-Japanese fusion of turnip, rice, fish, and dashi. 📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Charming and intimate, Le Bistrot de Jan is the relaxed sibling of the Michelin-starred JAN next door. Think rustic tables, candlelight, and friendly staff who’ll treat you like a regular, even on your first visit. The restaurant isn’t big, but it’s warm and ideal for quiet conversations. With its blend of French bistro comfort and South African flair, this is fine dining without the fuss. What should I order? If Bobotie is on the menu, don’t miss it. This spiced, oven-baked dish is rich, subtly sweet, and utterly comforting – a warm taste of South Africa.  📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Charming and intimate, Le Bistrot de Jan is the relaxed sibling of the Michelin-starred JAN next door. Think rustic tables, candlelight, and friendly staff who’ll treat you like a regular, even on your first visit. The restaurant isn’t big, but it’s warm and ideal for quiet conversations. With its blend of French bistro comfort and South African flair, this is fine dining without the fuss. What should I order? If Bobotie is on the menu, don’t miss it. This spiced, oven-baked dish is rich, subtly sweet, and utterly comforting – a warm taste of South Africa.  📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Tucked right in the heart of Nice’s Old Town, le Bistrot de Serruriers is warm, worn-in, and old-world pretty. The stone walls keep the heat out in summer – or in in winter – while dark wood, second-hand furniture, and handwritten chalkboard menus feel timeless and lived-in. It’s the kind of place locals guard as a secret. The cooking is heartfelt and seasonal, and very local, while service is unfussy and kind. The wine list leans natural, local, and very drinkable.  What should I order? The seasonal menu changes frequently, but for a real taste of Nice, try les farcies Niçoises, stuffed vegetables, or the pissaladiere, a sweet, caramelised onion tart topped with olives and anchovies. Save room for dessert: they scoop the chocolate mousse onto your plate by the ladle. 📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice

What’s the vibe? Tucked right in the heart of Nice’s Old Town, le Bistrot de Serruriers is warm, worn-in, and old-world pretty. The stone walls keep the heat out in summer – or in in winter – while dark wood, second-hand furniture, and handwritten chalkboard menus feel timeless and lived-in. It’s the kind of place locals guard as a secret. The cooking is heartfelt and seasonal, and very local, while service is unfussy and kind. The wine list leans natural, local, and very drinkable.  What should I order? The seasonal menu changes frequently, but for a real taste of Nice, try les farcies Niçoises, stuffed vegetables, or the pissaladiere, a sweet, caramelised onion tart topped with olives and anchovies. Save room for dessert: they scoop the chocolate mousse onto your plate by the ladle. 📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Nice