Located on the south-east coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea, Nice is the second largest French city on that coast after Marseille, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region. Known as Nice la Belle, which means Nice the Beautiful, it really will dazzle you. The area of today’s city is believed to be among the oldest human settlements in Europe and it is now deemed one of France’s most charming and popular cities.

The city’s geography has a lot to do with what makes it such a prime visitor destination. For decades, the picturesque surroundings have attracted holidaymakers looking for somewhere to relax as well as people after an inspiring setting. The clear air has appealed to such artists as Marc Chagall, and Henri Matisse. The city also has a university, several business districts and some major cultural facilities, including a national theatre.

A two-day break
Two days could be spent split between the famous seafront and the beautiful historical architecture. Meander along the Promenade des Anglais; its blue chairs and cabanas are perfect for a relaxing time contemplating the azure blue water of the Bay of Angels. Don’t miss the 18th century Place named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, or the churches, including the Cathédrale Ste-Réparate and its glazed terracotta dome, whose spires puncture the skyline. Also, don't forget to try some fresh seafood.

A week-long stay
A week will be filled quickly in Nice. If you're not soaking up the sun on the famous beaches, explore the history and stunning Mediterranean architecture dotted around. For the more adventurous, the city is an activity hotspot, offering water sports in the form of canoeing, kite surfing and windsurfing. Alternatively, head to the mountainside for climbing or even skiing, in the right season, or get stuck in at the perfume workshops and create your own unique fragrance.

A family holiday
The city offers lots for the whole family to get involved in. Centre the trip around the pebbly beach, as there are plenty of things for the kids to do there. Eat delicious ice creams whilst wandering around Old Nice, and spend a day at one of the nearby leisure parks such as Aqua Splash. The Premiere Classe Nice hotel offers the perfect place to kick-back after each day’s adventure.

Transport
The city’s port has ferry and high-speed craft connections with Corsica. Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is the third largest in France, and the main railway station is Nice-Ville. The TGV connects Paris and Nice in less than six hours. The Tramway de Nice links the northern and eastern suburbs via the city centre.

Gastronomy
Nice’s cuisine is similar to that of Provence and uses local ingredients such as olive oil, anchovies, fruit and vegetables. It also uses ingredients from more remote regions in northern Europe, as ships used to arrive full of foods such as dried haddock. The city prizes a local tart made with onions and anchovies, as well as the famous Niçoise salad.

Events
Nice sees many annual events. The Nice Carnaval draws visitors from all over Europe and North America. It begins sometime in February, usually 12 days before Shrove Tuesday, and celebrates the return of spring. Nice Festival du Jazz occurs for a week in July and sees an array of jazz artists perform in the ancient Arène de Cimiez.

Interesting fact
Prior to urbanisation, the city's coast was bordered by just a band of sand. During the 18th century, the English started spending their winters there, and with an especially harsh winter came more beggars. Some of the rich Englishmen suggested that a useful project for them would be the construction of the Promenade des Anglais.

Useful links
http://en.nicetourisme.com/
http://nicefrance.ca/