Nice, a natural brilliance 3

Nice is a city of paradox, audacity, discovery and pleasure. Located in the heart of one of the world’s most highly prized regions, at the gateway to major European cities, it offers its rich history, wonderfully mild sunny climate and geographic location between the sea and the mountains… A symbol of the Mediterranean art of living, it offers a perpetual invitation to travel. Its vicinity, too, provides ample opportunity for architectural and cultural discoveries, from pleasant strolls in museums to old palatial homes, from beaches to gardens and gastronomic adventures with countless flavours. This brochure lists (non-exhaustively) the essence of opportunities available in Nice and Greater Nice through different themes. 4 5

C o n t e n t s 7

N i c e 9

Location n 09 Nice, today and tomorrow n 11 Weather n 09 Nice, yesterday n 10

Access & connections 13

By air, by train, by sea… n 13 Sightseeing itineraries n 16 Getting around Nice n 16

Discovering Nice 19

Sights, monuments & churches n 20 Organised guided visits n 36 Parks & gardens n 28 Introduction to the specialities of Nice n 39 Museums, galleries & cultural activities n 31

Sports & leisure activities 43

Sporting activities n 44 Shopping n 50 Beaches n 46 Attractions & animal parks n 54 Leisure activities - Nice by night n 57

F r o m N i c e 59

Coastal towns from Nice n 60 Ski resorts n 66 Balconies over the French Riviera n 61 The Mercantour National Park n 67 The hinterland of Nice, the valleys n 64 Suggested tourist itineraries n 68

Practical information 73

Emergency services 24/7 n 73 Pets n 74 Currency exchange n 74 Repairs – Car parks n 75 Consumer services n 74 Recommendations n 75

Annual events 79

Venues n 80 Events in Nice n 83

Nice, a natural brilliance Nice 9

n L o c a t i o n n W e a t h e r n H i s t o r y

n LOCATION Situated in southern Europe and at the southeasternmost tip of France, Nice is a privileged junction between the Alps, Provence, Corsica and Italy. The city occupies a remarkable natural site in the heart of the French Riviera. It extends in a broad stretch open to the South on the Mediterranean with a succession of wooded hills to the West. To the North, the first peaks of the foothills of the Alps appear, some reaching heights exceeding 3,000m above sea level, only 50km from the coast as the crow flies… n WEATHER Nice enjoys an exceptional microclimate that has made its renown for nearly two centuries. Open to the sea, the city is protected from the wind by the surrounding hills, to the West by the Esterel Massif and, to the Northwest by the barrier of the Mercantour Alps. The climate is always mild in winter and never too hot in summer thanks to the sea breeze. It is not rare to have lunch outdoors on a terrace wearing no more than a T-shirt in February when the rest of France is shivering in the cold. 10 N i c e

n NICE, YESTERDAY A land of hospitality since prehistoric times with the site of Terra Amata (beloved land), Nice proudly displays its roots, going back more than 400,000 years at the foot of Mont-Boron, near the Lazaret Cave, which is still under excavation to yield the secrets of those who lived there 160,000 years ago. In Ancient times, Phocaean Greeks founded Nikaia (Victory) in the 4th century BC, a strategic trading post in the western Mediterranean. Three centuries later, the Romans, wishing to control the Alps, settled in turn in this ideal position where they built the town of Cemenelum, with its amphitheatre, baths and forum. This dynamic expansion attracted outsiders and a period of ten centuries witnessed the passage of Barbarian, Ligurian and Saracen invaders who put an end to this refined industrious society.

The Counts of Provence took over the ancient Greek site. In the 14th century AD, the people of Nice, wearied by constant political strife, placed themselves under the protection of the House of Savoy. They remained so until 1860, with two interruptions: from 1691 to 1713, the French king Louis XIV took over the Comté de Nice, and from 1792 to 1814, it was part of the French Republic, then Napoleon I’s Empire, becoming the Alpes-Maritimes département for the first time. In 1860, the population of Nice and its Comté voted in a plebiscite to become part of France, thanks to the Treaty of Turin, signed by Napoleon III and Victor Emmanuel II, King of Sardinia.

From that time on, the town enjoyed considerable growth and prosperity. It became a fashionable resort, admirably served by the brand new railway. Today, Nice is the fifth largest city in France with its 400,000 inhabitants, very much open to culture and the arts, as well as services, scientific and high-tech activities. Thanks to such ambitious realizations as the Acropolis Convention & Exhibition Centre, the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, second airport in France after Paris, and the finest hotel facilities, the City of Nice today has the enviable reputation of international capital of tourism. Nice, a natural brilliance 11 n NICE, TODAY AND TOMORROW Nice, "the Mediterranean's green town", is also planning to put back the human element at the heart of its development, and is launching a huge expansion and improvement programme within the context of urban life and development. Among the most significant projects are: n "THE PEDESTRIAN ZONE" Putting nature back into the heart of the town is this far-reaching project's objective. This 12 hectare wooded park is to be transformed, making Nice more attractive from 2013. Demolishing the existing infrastructures (the coach station) will leave a splendid view of the hills as well as the façades of the old town, whilst improving biodiversity. A pedestrianised avenue will take walkers from the National Theatre and the Nice Acropolis Convention Centre down to the sea along strips of lawn and stone, lined with water mirrors. n DEVELOPING PONCHETTES ROOF TERRACES The Town is considering re-opening the Ponchettes roof terraces between Old Nice and the sea. Pedestrians will be able to return to this emblematic location and enjoy an unrestricted balcony view of the Baie des Anges at the foot of the old Castle hill. n CONSTRUCTING "NICE STADIUM" This multipurpose 35,000 seat stadium dedicated to the highest level of football and rugby will also house seminars, concerts and other large-scale events. Located in the heart of the green valley, this stadium will be a real example of eco-design and eco- construction which, with the implementation of innovative technologies, will contribute to making Nice Stadium one of the world's very first Eco-Stadiums. Integrated into this creation will be the National Sports Museum, spanning 3,000m2. Its mission will be to improve the status of one of the world's richest collections devoted to sporting practices and their history. This will represent a link with an area dedicated to all kinds of sport.

Nice, a natural brilliance 13 ccess & Connections An By air, by train, by sea… n Tourist routes n Getting around Nice

n BY AIR NICE CÔTE D’AZUR AIRPORT e The gateway to the French Riviera, the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, the second busiest airport in France after Paris, It has two terminals T1 & T2 (B8). For information: & +33 (0) 820423333 (€0,12/min) List of destinations and airlines offering flights out of Nice, flight times in real time: www.nice.aeroport.fr

Offers of stays and flights: www.plaisirdepartir.com

Airport shuttle to and from the city centre Schedule & information available in agencies Lignes d’Azur: & +33 (0)8 1006 1006 From abroad: & +33 (0)4 97258936 www.lignesdazur.com Tickets sold on the bus.

• Line 98: Airport / Town Centre and back From both terminals, every 20 min. Monday to sunday, from 5:52 am to 11:37 pm. • Line 99: Airport / SNCF central railway station (Nice Ville) and back (direct line) From both terminals, every 30 min. Everyday between 8:00 am to 9:00 pm.

USEFUL INFORMATION Book your hotel, excursion, guided visit at the reception of the Nice Convention and Visitors Bureau (see p.86) Access & connections 14 By air, by train, by sea…

n BY TRAIN n MAIN RAILWAY STATION SNCF - AV. THIERS (H3) The national railway system provides rapid and express trains (TGV, corail) connecting the French Riviera with all parts of France and all major cities in Europe. The TGV Méditerranée high-speed train links Paris & Nice in 5hrs 30 min. Information: & 3635 (€0.34/min) From abroad: & +33 (0)8 92353535 www.sncf.fr sos voyageurs: & +33 (0)4 93160261

TER trains (Trains Express Régionaux) provide rapid connections between all the main cities on the French Riviera from Cannes to Ventimiglia. & 0800 11 40 23 Schedules & services: www.ter-sncf.com/paca

n RAILWAY STATION NICE RIQUIER (J2) & NICE SAINT-AUGUSTIN (C7) Regional service TER

n BY TAXI Central Taxi Riviera 24/7 Reservations, subscriptions for all distances: & +33 (0)4 93137878

n Taxis Niçois indépendants AV. THIERS (BORNE DEVANT LA GARE SNCF - H3) & +33 (0)4 93882582. Cash payment only. Possibility of booking a taxi (the day in advance): & 0899 70 08 78 Claims: Inspection of taxis & +33 (0)4 97132651

USEFUL INFORMATION Taxis can be hailed in the street, pre-booked or taken at a rank. No fixed rates.

n BY SEA n The Port of Nice At the foot of the Castle Hill, the Port of Nice, with its Genoan-style architecture, is made up of a 10-hectare body of water, 7 hectares of platforms, some ten wharves and provides over 500 berths. It is located 7km from the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and just a few minutes on foot from the main tourist sights. Nice, a natural brilliance 15

The Port of Nice-Villefranche, was France's 2nd port for cruises n Corsica Ferries e in 2009, with more than 450,000 passengers. QUAI AMIRAL INFERNET (J5) www.frcc.fr & 0825095095 (€0.15/min) From abroad: & + 33 (0)4 95329595 n Service Plaisance www.corsicaferries.com & 0820425555 (€0.12/min) www.riviera-ports.com n BY ROAD To reserve space in the Port of Nice: Nice is connected to all the great European cities by a major & + 33 (0)4 92004214 - [email protected] motorway network, in particular, the A8 motorway, ‘La Provençale’, running from Aix-en-Provence to the West to the Two lines offer regular connections to Corsica: Italian border on the East. There are five exits from the motorway to reach all parts of Nice: n S.N.C.M. e Exit n°50: Promenade des Anglais GARE MARITIME, QUAI DU COMMERCE (J5) Exit n°51: Saint-Augustin / aéroport & 3260 dire SNCM (€0.15/min) ou Exit n°52: Saint-Isidore & + 33 (0)4 93136699 Exit n°54: Nice nord From abroad: & + 33 (0)825888088 Exit n°55: Nice est www.sncm.fr Information on road & traffic conditions: & 0826022022 (€0.15 /min) Centre Régional de Coordination et d'Informations Routières: www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.fr 16

n SIGHTSEEING ITINERARIES n GETTING AROUND NICE The Alpes-Maritimes département, with its many sightseeing n BY BUS itineraries, has recently benefited from major improvements Agences Lignes d'Azur: & 08 1006 1006 providing the best conditions to reaching the hinterland and From abroad: & +33 (0)4 97258936 neighbouring regions and countries. www.lignesdazur.com

n Route Napoléon (Route Départementale 6085, formerly RN 85) • Masséna - 3 PLACE MASSÉNA (I4) This historical road connects Bourgoin-Jallieu to Golfe Juan and Monday to Friday: 7:45 am - 6:30 pm, Saturday: 8:30 am - 6:00 pm. goes crossing Sisteron, Castellane, Grasse and Cannes. • Véolia Transport Thiers - 17 AVENUE THIERS Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. n Route départementale 6098 (The Basse Corniche) The coastal road from Hyères through Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Lines 7,9,10 e Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton. The Lignes d’Azur network offers a single price for the entire Nice Côte d’Azur Conurbation. n Route départementale 6007 There are some forty lines during the day and four at night: From the West, it goes through Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël and Cannes; from the Italian border, it goes to Menton, Monaco and Service Noctambus: Lines - N1 (Nice/La Trinité) - N2 Èze. (The Moyenne Corniche, The former Nationale 7). (Nice/Rimiez) - N3 (Nice/Las Planas) - N4 (Nice/St-Laurent du Var)- N5 (Nice/La Madeleine) Departures every 30 min or hour starting at 9:10 pm. Service until 1:10 am, except N4 (last departure at 10:10 pm). Departure: JC Bermond (across from 10 av. Félix Faure). Tickets sold on the bus. Nice, a natural brilliance Access & connections 17 Getting around Nice n BY COACH n VÉLO BLEU (BICYCLE RENTAL) From the coach station (Gare Routière), there are several coach One thousand bicycles are provided for self-service rental in the lines in the département, the Region and European countries. Night commune of Nice. Access 24/7. service is provided three nights a week and on the eve of holidays Payment is made directly on the site (cell phone and credit card with service from Nice to Monaco, Menton, Cannes and Grasse. mandatory)or on the Internet. The first half-hour of use is free. For information: Rental cannot exceed 24 hours. Minimum age: 14. & 0892701206 Allo Vélo Bleu: & +33 (0)4 93720606 www.velobleu.org n Travel in the département: www.cg06.fr/transport/transports-tam.htlm n MOTORCYCLE Passenger transport: n Travel to foreign countries: Speedy Scoot & +33 (0)6 16212933 Eurolines - & 0892 89 90 91 (€0.34/min) www.speekyscoot.fr www.eurolines.fr Sunbike Driver: & +33 (0)6 22351212 www.sunbike.fr n BY TRAMWAY e Agences Lignes d’Azur: & 08 1006 1006 (prix d’un appel local) U.S.B. Urban Solution Bike: & +33 (0)6 26335207 www.tramway-nice.org www.usb06.com Ticket for sale in Lignes d’Azur agencies (see above) and on station platforms. For a better quality of life, the Nice Côte d'Azur Transport & excursions: Conurbation has provided a latest-generation tramway line Riviera Xpress & +33 (0)6 13229168 connecting the North to the East via the city centre along Avenue www.rivieraxpress.fr Jean-Médecin and Place Masséna. Icab: & +33 (0)6 15299260 www.icab06.com The tramway runs every day starting at 4:25 am, with trams every 4 mins during the day. Service Noctrambus from 9:00 pm M4U - Moto-Cab For You: & +33 (0)6 26333937 to 1:35 am. www.moto-cab4u.com

"Parcazur" tramway terminus car parks Open access to these car parks, reserved exclusively for users of the Lignes d’Azur network. Users must have a return ticket validated on Lignes d’Azur transport. “Solo 1” tickets and “Ticket Azur” cannot be used to drive out of the car parks. Parcazur Las Planas (H0): 765 spaces including 20 spaces e Open from 4:00 am to 2:30 am Parcazur Pont-Michel (K2): 260 spaces including 6 spaces e Open from 4:55 am to 1:45 am Parcazur Vauban (J3): 150 spaces including 3 spaces e Open from 5:00 am to 1:50 am Parcazur Saint-Augustin (C7): 184 spaces including 4 spaces e Open from 5:30 am to 10:00 pm Open access, exit possible with 1 ticket validated that same day (Lignes d’Azur, Solo and Ticket Azur) ou 1 titre SNCF.

Nice, a natural brilliance 19 iscovering Nice D n Sights, monuments & churches n Parks & gardens n Museums, galleries & cultural activities n Organised guided visits n Introduction to the specialities of Nice

Setting off to discover Nice - elegant and trendy, cheerful and bustling, proud of its past independence - you will be surprised by its personality, dynamism and passion for the arts and culture. Nice has countless surprises in store for visitors… monuments, churches, gardens, footpaths linking the surrounding hills to the city centre, but also museums, artists, local arts and crafts, international gastronomy with the savour of garlic, olive oil and basil, folk traditions… It will also delight you with its beautiful neighbourhoods, unique light and mild climate. Discovering Nice 20 Sights, monuments and churches

chapels. The wealth of the decoration inside, the originality of its SIGHTS, MONUMENTS & CHURCHES n volumes and the murals by Bistolfi make this a genuine gem of n OLD NICE Baroque art, with exceptionally rich architecture. Until the 18th century, the Old Town was home to virtually the entire population of Nice. Baroque churches and palaces, Adam & Eve house colourful façades and narrow streets: the heritage of Old Nice n RUE DE LA POISSONNERIE - ANGLE COURS SALEYA (I5) is protected. One of the few remaining examples of the decorated façades of Old Nice, this bas-relief dated 1584 shows Adam and Eve naked n Nice Opera House in the Garden of Eden, threatening each other with clubs. 4, 6 RUE SAINT-FRANÇOIS-DE-PAULE (I5) Perpendicular to Cours Saleya, this façade of this house is Located in Old Nice and across from the sea and perfectly famous for this mural. integrated in the urban fabric, the Opéra de Nice was built on the site of the previous theatre, destroyed by fire. The design was Les Ponchettes entrusted to the architect François Aune of Nice, who sought his n PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS / COURS SALEYA (I5) inspiration in different styles, baroque in particular. This listed Between Cours Saleya and the Sea, this row of buildings includes historic building remains today at the heart of the city’s cultural two 19th-century vaulted halls, now converted into municipal life. galleries, which host many exhibitions with a definite predilection for contemporary art. n Cours Saleya RUE SAINT-FRANÇOIS-DE-PAULE (H5) Castle Hill Built on the ramparts dismantled in the early 18th century, Cours n QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS (I5) Saleya, a pedestrian area in the heart of Old Nice, has become a The site of the first town founded by the ancient Greeks, then the picturesque part of the city, a must for tourist and locals alike. first mediaeval town, today’s Castle Hill (Colline du Château) has In this rectilinear baroque ochre setting, the flower and vegetable preserved only a few foundations and fragments of walls; but this markets (in the 100 most picturesque market in France) are held park and botanical garden offers unique vistas over Nice and its every day except Monday, when they are replaced by an antiques surroundings, a surprising artificial waterfall, remains of the market, provide a feast for the eyes and a delight for the taste former 11th-century Cathedral, walkways paved with colourful buds. On summer evenings, tourists take advantage of the 20th-century mosaics… pleasant arts & crafts market. Access: by lift (Cours Saleya) or on foot along Rue Rossetti, Montée Menica-Rondelly & Rue Catherine Ségurane. n Prefecture Palace 1 PLACE DU PALAIS DE JUSTICE (RUE DE LA PRÉFECTURE) (I5) The palace of the Dukes of Savoy in the 17th century, a hospital during the French Revolution and the Prefecture when Nice became French in 1860, this building has been renovated several The midday cannon shot times. Today, after having had different functions, the Palais de In 1861, to respect the military tradition of the ‘midday la Préfecture is the home of the Préfet of the Alpes-Maritimes cannon shot’, a Scottish winter visitor, Sir Thomas department and remains an essential landmark in Old Nice. Conventry-More, paid to have a cannon set up on the Castle Hill. Legend has it that he used this to ask his wife to return Miséricorde Chapel n to prepare lunch. On 19 November 1875, a municipal decree COURS SALEYA (I5) was voted to officialize this reminder of the importance Built after 1740 and designed by the famous architect Bernardo of having the right time. Vittone, the chapel has an elliptical nave, with semicircular side USEFUL INFORMATION Nice, a natural brilliance 21 22 Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 23 Sights, monuments and churches n Bellanda Tower n Place Garibaldi (I4) PARC DU CHÂTEAU, ESCALIER LESAGE (I5) The first extension of Old Nice northward, Place Garibaldi today Built on the foundations of a defensive structure razed to the ground is lined by elegant red façades with green shutters and vaulted during the French occupation under King Louis XIV, Tour Bellanda porticoes, in which the Blue Penitents’ chapel, Chapelle du was home to the great 19th-century French composer Hector Saint-Sépulcre, is perfectly integrated. A statue of Giuseppe Berlioz while he was writing the King Lear Overture. Adorned today Garibaldi stands in the middle of this square that is central to with ceramic mosaics with ancient Greek motifs, the terrace offers the life of the city. a splendid panorama over the city and its surroundings. Since 1964, Tour Bellanda houses the Naval Museum. n Place Rossetti (I5) Ochre façades, fountains, flower-decked balconies, baroque n Church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur, or Église du Jésus cathedral and café terraces contribute to the life of this bustling (Gesù in Niçois) square, one of the most picturesque in Old Nice. RUE DROITE (I5) Built in the Baroque style starting in 1607 by the Jesuits, the n Cathedral of Sainte-Réparate ‘Gesù’ church is richly decorated with many ornaments, stucco, PLACE ROSSETTI (I5) false marble, cherubs and medallions. The blue of its façade This church, which became the Cathedral in the 16th century, is dominate the small square that bears its name and from its the largest sanctuary in Old Nice. Inspired by early Baroque luminous architectures emanates great spirituality. architectural models from Rome, the structure has a basilical layout; with a triple nave and a transept. The decoration of the n Lascaris Palace side chapels and choir is particularly sumptuous and the interior 15 RUE DROITE (I5) reflects the influence of Saint Peter’s of Rome. The finest example of baroque civilian architecture, Palais Lascaris was designed like the traditional palazzi of Genoa. In Church of the Annunciation, better known as Sainte-Rita addition to its opulently decorated façade and impressive portal, n 1 RUE DE LA POISSONNERIE (I5) this home boasts a monumental staircase whose elaborated Generally known as Saint Rita’s, for the patron saint of desperate painted vaults houses a museum dedicated to decorative arts, causes canonized in 1900, the church was rebuilt in the 17th folk art and traditions and musical instruments. century and dedicated first to Saint Giaume (Saint James), then n Place Saint-François (I4) Notre-Damede-l’Annonciation. With its dark outer architecture, Of the former Franciscan convent, all that remains is a small it goes almost unnoticed, but the interior is richly decorated with part of the cloister and the recently restored bell tower (Tour de baroque stucco, false marble, gilded motifs and trompe-l’oeil l’Horloge) dominating the lively square where the fish market is paintings. held every morning (except Monday) around the dolphins’ fountain. The former town hall, decorated in the Baroque style, n Justice Palace was first built in the 16th century. It is one of the few Baroque PLACE DU PALAIS (I5) public buildings in Old Nice and now houses the Trades Council. Built from 1890-1892 on the site of the former Dominican convent, the Hall of Justice was built according to the very traditional n Church of Saint-Martin-Saint-Augustin principle of a colonnade and a great Neoclassical staircase. PLACE SAINT-AUGUSTIN (I4) The present church dates mainly from the 17th century; among n City Hall the fine works it contains, there is a Pietà, a panel painting RUE DE L'HÔTEL DE VILLE (I5) attributed to Louis Brea (ca. 1504). The Augustinian convent Neoclassical on the outside and Art-Deco inside, this structure, became a barracks after the French Revolution, renamed built in 1730, was used successively as a seminary for the Diocese, ‘Caserne Filley’ in 1907, home to the Foreign Legion. a hospital and a barracks. Since 1860, it has been the Town Hall. Discovering Nice 24 Sights, monuments and churches

n OTHER DISTRICTS creation of the Alpes-Maritimes département. It faces n Notre-Dame Basilica Promenade des Anglais and the Mediterranean Sea, on the edge AVENUE JEAN MÉDECIN (H4) of Jardin Albert Ier. The largest church in Nice and the first modern religious Le Palais de la Méditerranée structure, the basilica of Notre-Dame was built after Nice n 11 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) became French (1864-1868). Inspired by the Cathedral of Angers A temple to gambling and the arts in the Interwar years, in 1927, with its two square towers, it is adorned with 19th-century the year of its construction, it became the world’s most stained-glass windows and a sumptuous rose window with grandiose casino. Closed in 1978, it was not until 2004, after scenes of the Assumption. three years of works, that life was re-instilled in the legend with n Place Masséna (H4/5) its Art-Deco architecture thanks to a private developer who Built in the 1840s, Place Masséna remains the jewel of Nice. On refurbished the interior of the building while preserving the the north side, elegant arcaded buildings are painted with the sumptuous façade, a listed historic building. Today, it is famous Pompeian red and to the East, there is a splendid recognised as one of the world’s finest hotels and has just perspective on the hills with their Tuscan charm. The square was obtained a 5th Michelin star. renovated in 2007, accompanied by the installation of artworks along the tramway: seven statues devised by the Spanish artist n “Le Negresco” Hotel Jaume Plensa, titled ‘Conversation in Nice’ and representing the 37 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (G5) seven continents. Built on the shores of the famous Baie des Anges in 1912 by Niermans for the Romanian Henri Negresco, this Belle-Époque Promenade des Anglais (B8 à H5) n landmark is the only museum and luxury hotel in Nice. A listed Nice owes this route its international standing! This famous historic building since 2003, it houses collections retracing five seaside road is always elegantly decorated with flowers and follows centuries of art history. The 121 rooms and 24 suites each have the harmonious curve of Baie des Anges. Originally a footpath no their own decoration. The styles of the most brilliant periods in more than 6 feet wide, it was widened by an Englishman, Reverend French art are represented from Louis XIII to modern art. Lewis Way, at his expense in 1820 and the local population soon Recently promoted to the 5-star category, it is reputedly one of dubbed it ‘Chemin des Anglais’. In 1931, when it was given its final the world’s finest hotels. form with two roadways separated by a central reservation planted with palm trees, the ‘Prom’ was inaugurated by the Duke of n “Tête Carrée” Connaught, one of Queen Victoria’s sons. 2 PLACE YVES KLEIN (I4) n Monument du Centenaire (Centennial Monument) Devised by the sculptor Sacha Sosno, the ‘Square Head’ is the JARDIN ALBERT 1ER (H5) key symbol of the city’s contemporary architecture: 30 metres Built in 1893, this monument commemorates the decree high and 14 metres wide, this monument-sculpture is not open declaring the Comté de Nice to be part of France and the to the public and houses the offices of the Louis Nucéra municipal library.

“Label Patrimoine du XXe siècle en région n Acropolis Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur” 1 ESPLANADE J. F. KENNEDY (J3) This “20th-century Heritage” status created by the French Acropolis, founded in 1984, has made Nice the top city in France, Ministry of Culture, is granted to the most remarkable 20th- after Paris, for Business Tourism and is one of the world’s very century architectural complexes. For complete information best convention centres. The Convention Centre offers the best and the list of these sites in the Alpes-Maritimes, consult: in the technical facilities for the needs of each professional event: www.paca.culture.gouv.fr. gala evenings, entertainment… USEFUL INFORMATION Nice, a natural brilliance 25

n THE PORT n Quai Rauba Capeu The Nice-Villefranche port is the second Mediterranean cruise EASTERN END OF PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (I5) port. Surrounded by 18th-century buildings in the Genoese style, At the foot of the Castle Hill, Promenade des Anglais becomes it is actually named Port Lympia. The architectural complex Quai des États-Unis along the old town, then Rauba Capeu, seems inspired by the Italian Renaissance and influenced by the which offers one of the finest vistas on the Mediterranean Sea baroque urban planning of Turin. and the beautiful blue and ochre nuances along Promenade des Anglais. The latest renovation of Quai Rauba Capeu was awarded n Place Ile-de-Beauté (J5) the ‘Prix de l’Architecture’ 2004, in the urban renewal category. Aligned symmetrically on either side of the church of Notre- Dame du Port (Church of the Immaculate Conception), the buildings and houses on the square form an exemplary complex in the Neoclassical style. Also called ‘Place du Port’, its harbour is the main link between France and Corsica. n War Memorial PLACE GUYNEMER (I5) At the foot of the Castle Hill, where Nice was born, the War The sundial Memorial was inaugurated in 1928 in the old quarries cut into On Quai Rauba Capeu which links Promenade des Anglais the sides of the hill, in honour of the 4,000 people of Nice who to the Port, a most unusual sundial gives the time thanks died in World War I (1914-1918). to the shadow of the human head. USEFUL INFORMATION Discovering Nice 26 Sights, monuments and churches

n CIMIEZ n Former hotel Régina 71 BD DE CIMIEZ (I2) This former hotel was built in 1896 for English aristocrats and essentially Queen Victoria; construction took only eighteen months. With its impressive majestic silhouette, it bears witness to the splendours of the Belle Époque. In the 1930s, it was converted into private flats.

n Franciscan Church & Monastery of Cimiez AV. DU MONASTÈRE (J2) On the site of a Benedictine chapel, the church was later part of a Franciscan convent and became the site of a popular pilgrimage in the 16th century. The church houses three key works by the gothic painter Louis Brea of Nice and a monumental altarpiece of carved gilded wood.

n Monastery of Cimiez place The Franciscan cross on the square is a copy of the original inside the church dated 1477. The marble cross 5.80 metres high bears several finely carved figures including the Seraph described in Saint Francis of Assisi’s visions.

n Monastery of Cimiez cemetery AV. DU MONASTÈRE (J2) Raoul Dufy, Roger Martin du Gard and Henri Matisse are buried in this cemetery which has many surprising monuments in memory of the departed.

USEFUL INFORMATION: One of the hills of Nice, Cimiez owes its name to the amazing height of the trees growing there, so tall that, according to legend, their tops literally caressed the sky. Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 27 Sights, monuments and churches n NEIGHBOURING DISTRICTS n Saint Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral AV. NICOLAS II (BD TZARÉVITCH) (G4) The Saint Nicolas Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Nice was built in the early 20th century near a monument to the deceased tsarevich where many Russian aristocrats lived. This listed historic building is one of the most important outside Russia. Inspired by the Muscovite style, it has a very richly decorated interior with many icons, murals and carved woodwork as well as an iconostasis of embossed metal. Admission charge. Information: & +33 (0)4 93968802 n Sainte-Jeanne d'Arc church 11 RUE GRAMMONT (H2) A stunning realization made of concrete painted white, the Joan of Arc church was built by the architect Jacques Droz in the early 1930s, with exceptional consistency between the materials, shapes and aesthetic design. The 65-metre bell tower adorned with twisted flames, the three raised domes and the ellipsoidal porch form a fine architectural complex. n Mont-Alban Fort AVENUE DU MONT-ALBAN (K4) Built on a hilltop 222 metres above sea level, the Fort is a massive 16thcentury structure with bastions and bartizans. It offers an exceptional panorama including Italy (point of Bordighera), Cap d’Ail, Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat, Baie des Anges, all the way to La Garoupe on Cap Antibes… In perfectly clear weather, it is actually possible to see Corsica. The Fort will soon be dedicated to contemporary art. n Batterie du Mont-Boron (K6) The old fort known as ‘Batterie du Mont-Boron’ will soon be renovated by the world-renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, who is famous for the Musée du Quai Branly (Paris), Soho Hotel (New York), the great urban park of Barcelona… to make it into an architectural centre for creativity and research in France, a bridge between heritage and modernity. Discovering Nice 28 Parks and gardens

n PARKS & GARDENS Nice has preserved its exceptional heritage of parks and gardens: 300 hectares of greenery and many private gardens are an integral part of the urban landscape. It is in no way surprising that Nice is one of the cities with the most flowers and vegetation in France… In the 19th century, the aristocracy of Europe discovered the French Riviera, settled here and, to enhance the parks surrounding their palaces, imported many trees and other plants from distant lands thanks to the mildness of the climate to satisfy their whims and create amazing landscapes with rare species. From the palm trees that have become emblematic of Promenade des Anglais and its historic façades, to the olive trees of the neighbouring hills, Nice is now home to many species that crossed the continents to be reborn here.

n CITY CENTRE n Albert 1er garden e 1 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) This is one of the city’s oldest gardens, with many species of palm trees and roses. Arbours of greenery surround the vast stretches of lawn with ponds and fountains. Across from the sea, it extends to Place Masséna, the city’s geographic centre, providing a leafy alleyway over 2km long in the heart of town, reaching to the seafront. This is a vast area for strolling and relaxing with a bandstand and a late-19th-century theatre in the green (Théâtre de Verdure). It hosts many events in summer. ‘L’Arc de Venet - 115°5’ , a huge black metal arc 19 metres high, has been there since 1988, a gift of the contemporary artist, Bernar Venet.

n Castle Hill Park e RUE DES PONCHETTES ET RUE DE FORESTA / MONTÉE MONTFORT (I5) The city’s original site, the Castle Hill once boasted a reputedly impregnable citadel that was entirely dismantled by the soldiers of the French King Louis XIV in 1706. Truly a maze of greenery that has become popular for its cool undergrowth and surprising waterfall, this wonderful place for strolling offers a wonderful viewpoint over Baie des Anges, Old Nice and the Port (orientation table). Spectacular lighting at night. Access on foot from OId Nice and Place Garibaldi, in an Art-Deco lift or by steps (‘escalier Lesage’) at the end of Quai des États-Unis or on the Little Tourist Train (see p.37). Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 29 Parks and gardens n THE HILL OF CIMIEZ n Castel-des-Deux-Rois leisure park e n Monastery garden e CORNICHE ANDRÉ DE JOLY (J4/5) PLACE DU MONASTÈRE DE CIMIEZ (J2) Located on the slopes of the Mont-Boron, this park is a Peace and harmony reign here, near the Amphitheatre (Arènes). children’s paradise that offers many attractions. From the vast This 9,550m2 park evokes an Italian-style garden: the monks’ lawns with their palm trees, the view over the city and the Port former orchard and vegetable garden, it has preserved its further enhances this garden’s charm. original layout around a well with old pergolas entirely covered with climbing roses. The fragrance of a multitude of varieties of n Carol de Roumanie leisure park e flowers fills the air. At the end of the garden, there is striking 23 AV. DE FABRON (E5) vista over the city. A park for young and old alike: wooden playing structures, ballgames on the lawn, fitness trail, water games and wonderful n Cimiez Gardens and Roman Arena e walks. Mini-golf. 164 AV. DES ARÈNES DE CIMIEZ (IJ2) Across from the Monastery of Cimiez, this garden is a vast olive n Vigier park e grove, with thousands of centuries-old trees; the lawns are easily BD FRANCK PILATTE (J5) accessible to everyone, which makes this a favourite haunt for Located near the Port, this 10,000m2 Mediterranean garden open family outings. Every year, it hosts traditional local events like on the sea offer a wide range of exceptional trees, two of the the May Festival or the famous ‘Nice Jazz Festival’. This broad most remarkable being the wild date palm (Phœnix zeylanica) stretch of greenery also features several interesting tourist and Agathis. sights: Matisse Museum, the Monastery of Cimiez with its church and cloister, Archaeology Museum and Roman ruins. n Nice cap (J5/6) From Parc Vigier, Boulevard Franck-Pilatte leads to Jardin Félix- n NEIGHBOURING DISTRICTS Rainaud (view on the sea and the Cap-Ferrat). From there, it is n Chambrun park possible to follow the coastal trail for a short walk, or take the RUE GEORGE SAND (H1) steps built in the hillside to climb to the Mont-Boron district. Located in the residential district of Saint-Maurice, in the northern part of Nice, where the street names celebrate the n Mont-Boron forestal park names of great 19th century poets, this park is renowned for its ROUTE FORESTIÈRE DU MONT BORON (K6) calm and its music pavilion - called the Temple of Love or Temple 11km of marked trails Botanical garden in the heart of a 57-ha of Diana), a little masterpiece of Belle-Époque architecture. Mediterranean forest (Aleppo pine and rare species): from the Mont-Alban Fort, a unique panorama unfolds from Italy to the n Valrose park Esterel Massif, including the Bay of Villefranche, the Cap-Ferrat AV. SAINT-LAMBERT (H2) peninsula, Nice and the mountainous relief of the Alps. A former aristocratic estate, Parc Valrose still boasts a splendid Château. This is the only ‘Second-Empire’ park in Nice to have n Estienne d'Orves Departmental Nature Reserve kept its original 10 hectares of grounds, where the Sciences This 14.6 hectare wooded area occupies a large part of St- Division of the University of Nice has been located since 1961, one Philippe hill. It has been laid out so that the public can enjoy of the most beautiful campuses in Europe. Along with rare trees, pretty views of the town and sea. it also features a genuine Russian isba made of fir wood and Access: 31 av. Honoré d’Estienne d’Orves shipped by sea from Odessa and reassembled on the site. Like several other major landmarks (the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, the Fine Arts Museum…), it is a reminder of the presence of Russian aristocrats on the Riviera in the mid-19th century. Discovering Nice 30 Parks and gardens

n Vinaigrier park e • Some twenty theme gardens display 2,500 plant species. ACCESS FROM THE GRANDE CORNICHE, AFTER THE OBSERVATORY. (HP/K1) • A lake, where a hundred birds - ducks, pelicans, black swans At the eastern end of the city, this stretch of greenery reveals a - live together in peace and in which are reflected the white unique panorama on Baie des Anges. Owned by the Conservatoire marble façades of the Asian Arts Museum designed by the du Littoral, this Park is the starting point for a botanical trail that Japanese architect Kenzo Tange. leads to the Col de Villefranche-sur-Mer, which is home to dense • One of the largest greenhouses in Europe: the ‘Green varied fauna. The flora benefits from exceptional soil conditions Diamond’, that takes visitors through seven different tropical and exposure that further the development of rare species. climates to discover several thousand rare plant species, including tree ferns, an orchid collection… and many more n Departemental natural park of "la Grande Corniche" plants. This 660-hectare park occupies several communes and offers a • Other areas display sharks, rays, spectacle caimans, iguanas breathtaking view from San Remo (Italy) to Saint-Tropez (Var) and and free-flying exotic birds. sometimes, when the visibility is ideal, it is even possible to see From 1/04 to 30/09: 9:30 am to 7:30 pm; 1 Oct to 31 March, 9:30 am to Corsica on the horizon. This site is home to 450 plant species as 6:00 pm. Open every day - Price: €2 (free for children under 12). well as interesting fauna, including large birds of prey and rare bird species and many mammals. n THE HILLS OF NICE Access from the A8 motorway, (La Turbie exit) or RD 2564. 14km of trails for a 4-hr & 45-min hike. Discover the countryside: pinewoods, vines, olive groves, flowers n Botanical garden and vegetables; views over the Baie des Anges, the city and the 78 AV. DE LA CORNICHE-FLEURIE (C5) surrounding countryside. Departure from the Lingostière station & +33 (0)4 92294180/81 - www.nice.fr (access via the “Chemins de Fer de Provence” railways see p.69); A wonderful hillside place for strolling and exploration, this various bus routes intersect the trail (Lignes d’Azur, see p.16). garden offers a remarkable view on the mouth of the Var River and a vast panorama from the Alps to the Esterel Massif. This n Vinaigrier trail 3.5ha garden features 3 000 varieties essentially Mediterranean ROUTE FORESTIÈRE DU MONT-BORON (K5/6) plants. Certain tropical species are constantly in bloom. What For 2km between Col de Villefranche and the Grande Corniche, makes its originality lies in the reconstruction of typical the trail runs through the Parc du Vinaigrier, offering Mediterranean landscapes. National collections of sage and incomparable vistas over the surrounding hill, mountains and agave approved by the Conservatoire des Collections Végétales the sea, from the Mont-Alban all the way to the Cap d’Antibes. Spécialisées (Conservatory of specialised plant collections). Access: Chemin du Vinaigrier, then Chemin de la Compagnie Officially recognised by the Botanical Gardens of France and Générale des Eaux and steps to the trail. Francophone Countries, it was recently granted the ‘Remarkable Garden’ label. n Gairaut canal trail Open every day. Admission free. From 01/11 to 31/03: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm AVENUE DE RIMIEZ (J0) – From 01/04 to 30/10: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm. Free guided tour by This trail, with its little bridges, offers splendid panoramas over appointment (approx 1.30 hrs) the city and a lovely stroll under the olive and fig trees along an old canal, a favourite haunt for joggers. n Phœnix floral park e Access: Avenue de Gairaut, then Ancien Chemin de Gairaut near the 405 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (C7/8) Cascade. & + 33 (0)4 92297700 - www.nice.fr Across from the city, this 7-hectare park at the western entrance to Nice is ideal for a moment of relaxation and change of scene. It offers many activities and exhibitions on Nature all year long, with; Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 31 Parks and gardens

n Gairaut waterfall AVENUE DE GAIRAUT (H0) The picturesque waterfall of Gairaut and its chalet commemorate the opening in 1883 of the canal bringing the waters of the Vésubie River to Nice. The chalet stands atop artificial rocks structuring a broad waterfall dropping into a perfectly symmetrical pool.

n THE COAST n The coastal trail With the last section of the trail; it is now possible to reach the shores of Villefranche from Cap de Nice. This sporty hike through a protected wilderness, on irregular ochre-coloured terrain, along steps cut in the bedrock and wooden footbridges, provides an opportunity to discover the splendours of the coast. Start from Coco Beach or the Basse Corniche via the steps at La Pointe des Sans-Culotte. It is important to wear hiking shoes, 45 min return trip. n MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & CULTURAL ACTIVITIES n NATIONAL MUSEUM n Marc Chagall National Museum e AV. DU DOCTEUR MÉNARD (I3) & +33 (0)4 93538720 www.musee-chagall.fr Many works, including the 17 large Biblical Message paintings, sculptures, stained-glass windows, mosaics and tapestries, 205 preparatory sketches, gouaches (1931), 105 prints (1956) and 215 lithographs. Price for the permanent collection: €6.50 Reduced price (for young people age 18 to 25 & on Sundays): €4.50 Temporary exhibition rates on request Admission free on the 1st Sunday of each month. Every day, may to october 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, & november to april 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed Tuesday & some holidays.

Nice has some twenty municipal museums & galleries, a large number of private contemporary art galleries &

artists' studios. USEFUL INFORMATION 32

n DÉPARTEMENT MUSEUM n Museum of Archaeology & site of Nice-Cemenelum n Asian Arts Museum e 160 AV. DES ARÈNES (I2) 405 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (C8) & +33 (0)4 93815957 & +33 (0)4 92293700 - www.arts-asiatiques.com www.musee-archeologique-nice.org Standing in the artificial lake in Parc Phœnix, in a building of Cemenelum was proclaimed the capital of Alpes Maritimae, an white marble and glass designed by the Japanese architect ancient Roman Province, in 14 BC by the Emperor Augustus, Kenzo Tange, the Asian Arts Museum evokes the spirit of the was. The ruins that can be visited include the amphitheatre main civilizations of Asia, India, Southeast Asia, China and Japan (arènes) and baths (3rd century AD), as well as paved streets and through both classical and contemporary works. Temporary a Palaeo-Christian complex (5th century AD). exhibitions, as well as performances and other activities, like the The museum, inaugurated in January 1989, displays collections famous ‘tea ceremony’ illustrate the Museum’s creativity. ranging from the Bronze Age (1100 BC) to the Middle Ages: Admission free. Every day, from May to mid-October, 10:00 am to 6:00 ceramics, glass, coins, jewellery, sculptures, tools… pm, and from mid-October to the end of April, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, except Closed Tuesday - Guided tour on Thursday at 3:30pm. Tuesday & some holidays. n Masséna Museum e n MUNICIPAL MUSEUMS 65 RUE DE FRANCE ET 35 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (G5) From 1st July 2008, access to the museums and galleries & +33 (0)4 93911910 - www.nice.fr of Nice is free. The Villa Masséna, built at the end of the 19th century and The museums are open daily except Mondays or Tuesdays and registered as a historic monument, has benefited from an some public holidays: 25th December; 1st January, Easter architectural and museographic renovation. Dedicated to the Sunday and 1st May from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (except Prieuré history of Nice in the 19th century, the scientific content of the du Vieux-Logis) collections is presented with a chronological, historical and Information: Direction Centrale des Affaires Culturelles themed approach. Closed Tuesdays. & +33 (0)4 97132395 - www.nice.fr Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 33 Museums, galleries and cultural activities n Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art e An evocation of the life of Franciscan friars in Nice from the 13th PROMENADE DES ARTS (I4) to the 18th century, an illustration of Saint Francis of Assisi’s & +33 (0)4 97134201 - www.mamac-nice.org spiritual and social message, paintings, sculptures, prints, The MAMAC collections, with nearly 400 works, illustrate the key illuminated manuscripts, murals, chapel and reconstructed cells… role of Nice in the development of groundbreaking movements 10:00 am to 12:00 am and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, closed Sunday. from the 1960s and 1970s to the present: New Realists (César, Arman, Niki de Saint-Phalle), Pop Art (Andy Warhol, Tom n Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle - Musée Barla Wesselmann), Fluxus (Ben Vautier), Minimal and Conceptual Art, 60 BIS BD RISSO (I4) School of Nice, Supports-Surfaces, as well as more solitary & +33 (0)4 97134680 - www.mhnnice.org figures associated with Nice, like Ernest Pignon-Ernest and Gilli. Founded in the mid-19th century, the Museum of Natural History The Museum hosts many temporary exhibitions. is truly the memory of Mediterranean Nature, the better to Closed Monday - Guided tour on Wednesday at 4:00 pm, reservation understand regional biodiversity: a heritage to help protect the required, minimum of 5 participants. environment, with over a million botanical, zoological and geological specimens. n Anatole Jakovsky International Museum of Naïve Art Closed Monday - Guided tour at 3:00 pm on Wednesday and the 1st CHÂTEAU SAINTE-HÉLÈNE - AV. DE FABRON (E5) Sunday of each month. & +33 (0)4 93717833 - www.nice.fr Inaugurated in 1982 in the perfumer François Coty’s former home, n Matisse Museum e this museum owes its existence to a major donation by Anatole 164 AV. DES ARÈNES (I2) and Renée Jakovsky: 600 paintings, drawings, prints and & +33 (0)4 93810808 - www.musee-matisse-nice.org sculptures retracing the history of Naïve Art worldwide from the A completely renovated 17th-century Genoese villa in the heart of 18th century to the present. Works by Bauchant, Bombois, the olive grove of the gardens of Cimiez houses the personal Rimbert, Séraphine, as well as painters from Croatia, Haiti, Brazil… collection of the painter, who lived in Nice from 1917 until his death A rich loan from the State (from the Centre Georges Pompidou in 1954. Works from all periods offer a very complete panorama, National Museum of Modern Art) further enriches this collection. from his very first paintings made in 1890 to the famous gouache Closed Tuesday - Guided tour on Wednesday at 3:30 pm. cut-outs, 236 drawings, 218 prints and a complete presentation of the books illustrated by the artist. Temporary exhibitions. n Fine Arts Museum e Closed Tuesday. 33 AV. DES BAUMETTES (F5) & +33 (0)4 92152828 www.musee-beaux-arts-nice.org This museum is the heir to the first Municipal Museum of Nice featuring loans from the State, encouraged by Napoleon III. In 1928, it was moved to a sumptuous late 19th-century villa. The paintings and sculptures on display range from the 13th to the 20th century: Van Loo, Fragonard, Chéret, Dufy, Impressionists, Rodin, Carpeaux. Closed Monday - Guided tour on Wednesday at 3:00 pm, reservation required. n Franciscan Museum PLACE DU MONASTÈRE (I2) & +33 (0)4 93810004 - www.nice.fr Church & Monastery of Cimiez Discovering Nice 34 Museums, galleries and cultural activities

n Terra Amata Museum of Human Palaeontology n Galerie des Ponchettes e 25 BD CARNOT (J5) 77 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS (I4) & +33 (0)4 93555993 - www.musee-terra-amata.org & +33 (0)4 93623124 - www.nice.fr With a campsite occupied by elephant hunters 400,000 years ago, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm - Closed Monday & some holidays. reconstructed prehistoric habitats, plaster casts, the Terra Galerie a Amata Museum was built on the very site of the discoveries. n 4 RUE SAINTE-RÉPARATE (I4) Closed Monday. & +33 (0)4 93800748 - www.nice.fr 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm - Closed Monday & some Lascaris palace n holidays. 15 RUE DROITE (I5) & +33 (0)4 93627240 - www.nice.fr n OTHER EXHIBITION VENUES The residence of the Lascaris-Vintimille family from 1657 to the n Villa Arson - School of Fine Arts & National French Revolution, this listed historic building was restored after Contemporary Art Centre 1963 to become a museum. Decorated in the Genoese Baroque 20 AV. STEPHEN LIEGEARD (G1) style, this palatial home has preserved its monumental staircase, & +33 (0)4 92077373 - www.villa-arson.org murals and luxuriously decorated rooms. An apothecary’s shop This 18th-century villa, set in a contemporary architecture made (originally in Besançon), dated 1738, has been installed on the of river cobbles and concrete, has labelled “20th century ground floor, while the state rooms are on the second floor. It Heritage”. It houses a national contemporary art college and an also houses a fine collection of ancient musical instruments artists' residence. retracing much of the history of music. Admission free. Open to the public for exhibitions: 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm in Closed Tuesday. Guided tour on Friday at 3pm. winter; 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm in summer. Closed Tuesday.

n Forum de l’Urbanisme et d’Architecture e Prieuré du Vieux-Logis n PLACE PIERRE GAUTIER - COURS SALEYA (I5) 59 AV. SAINT-BARTHÉLÉMY (G1) & +33 (0)4 97133151 - www.nice.fr + 33 (0)4 92004190 - www.nice.fr & The Forum d’Urbanisme & d’Architecture presents the A typical villa remodelled in the early 1930s to development of urban culture in all aspects: information, house collections of mediaeval religious art as consultation, participation of the population, training. Since May well as a set of everyday objects and furniture. 2004, it has been extending its action by opening ‘La Maison des In 1937, the building and its artworks were Projets’. This nearby venue (100m2) is dedicated to presenting donated to the city of Nice. The collections range the local urban planning project (PLU - Plan Local d’Urbanisme), from the 14th to the 17th centuries. major projects, consultations and public enquiries. Guided tour on Friday at 3:00 pm. Admission free. 8:30 am to 5:30 pm; 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturday; closed Sunday. n MUNICIPAL GALLERIES The municipal galleries are dedicated exclusively n Museaav to temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. 16BIS PLACE GARIBALDI (I2) Admission free. & +33 (0)4 93562119 – www.museaav.com The ‘Musée Usine Espace d’Art Actuel Virtuel’, comparable to a 2 n Galerie de la Marine e Warhol-style ‘Factory’, covers 1,000m . A combination of museum, 59 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS (I4) gallery and venue for artistic exchange, with a permanent collection & +33 (0)4 93919290 - www.nice.fr of nearly 150 works, Museaav hosts the new generation of artists 10:00 am to 6:00 pm - Closed Monday & some holidays. for temporary exhibitions resolutely promoting digital creation. Paying admission. 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 35 Museums, galleries and cultural activities

n Théâtre de la Photographie et de l’Image e 27 BD DUBOUCHAGE (I4) & +33 (0)4 97134220 - www.tpi-nice.org Exhibition rooms offer exhibition opportunities for all trends, from photojournalism to art photography, from “straight photography” to digital images: portraits, landscapes, reporting, applied photography… Documentation centre, bookshop, multimedia. Admission free. 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Closed Monday.

n ASTRONOMY n Observatory GRANDE CORNICHE (K1) & +33 (0)4 92003112 - www.oca.eu The Observatory complex offers remarkable scientific, historical & natural heritage. Built by Charles Garnier (of the Paris Opéra), it boasts in particular Europe’s largest sliding dome designed by Gustave Eiffel. Walking tour (2km) on Wednesday and Saturday at 2:45 pm Shuttle service, Sunday at 2:00 pm, 2:45 pm and 3:30 pm.

n Astrorama ROUTE DE LA REVÈRE - EZE & +33 (0)4 93858558 - www.astrorama.net Discover, observe & understand the universe! ‘Open sky’ evenings and Lectures from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

n LIBRARIES n La grande bibliothèque Louis Nucéra e 2 Place Yves Klein (I4) & +33 (0)4 97134800 - www.bmvr-nice.com.fr Located in the extension of the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art Modern, the library occupies a vast 10,000m2 area on a single level dominated by a huge square head devised by the sculptor Sacha Sosno. It houses over 200,000 documents freely available to the public (books, periodicals, CDs, CD-Rom, DVDs, musical scores). Admission free. Tuesday & Wednesday, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; Thursday & Friday, 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm; Saturday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; Sunday, 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm from October to June. July & August, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Closed Monday. Discovering Nice 36 Organised guided visits

n WALKING TOURS n "Discover the heart of Nice"- Tour of the Old Town: Tour of the narrow streets of the old town to discover its sights, history, Baroque churches and picturesque markets. General presentation from the ancient Greeks to the present, highlighting the Belle Époque and the Baroque period. The colourful tour is punctuated with anecdotes to bring back to life past events and persons. Duration: approx 2.30 hrs - Saturdays at 9:30 am year round. Departure in front of the Convention & Visitors Bureau - 5 Promenade des Anglais Languages: French - English - Price: €12 for adults, €6 for children. Reservations at the Nice Convention & Visitors Bureau. (see p.86)

n “Heritage” guided tours Every day, tours on historical or architectural themes specific to Nice are available, each one concentrating on a given theme. Prices, hours and meeting place on request. Commentary in French, English and Italian. Centre du Patrimoine 75 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS - Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. & +33 (0)4 92004190 - www.nice.fr

n ORGANISED GUIDED TOURS n Art in the city e Guided visit of the works of art along the tramway, an open-air muséum. Guided visit of the 12 works of art along the tramway route which light up the evening landscape. These works have been produced by the contemporary art scene's most famous designers. They form part of the urban landscape and exemplify the modernity of the town. Duration: approx 2 hours - Friday at 7:00 pm. Languages: French & English. Prices: €8 for adults (plus €2 for the tram); €3 for children under age 10 (transport free for children under age 4). Reservation required at the Convention & Visitors Bureau or at www.nicetourisme.com. (see p.86)

n "Discovered loops" The town of Nice has designed an entertaining booklet entitled "Nice in 8 discovered loops", a genuine invitation to take a stroll and discover Nice and its architectural, historical and plant heritage. The pedestrian tours are accessible to all. They are available from the Maison de l'Environnement, in the annexes of the Town Hall, and at the reception desks of the Tourist Office (see p.86) or on www.nice.fr Nice, a natural brilliance Discovering Nice 37 Organised guided visits

FRENCH RIVIERA PASS

Discover greater Nice with a single pass: 24 hrs , 48 hrs or 72 hrs All inclusive to make the most of your stay

Designed to offer maximum n Various guided tours opportunities, the Nice Riviera Pass entitles n A selection of recommended addresses offering throughout the period of validity unlimited access to: exclusive advantages such as gifts or discounts (boutiques, n “Nice le Grand Tour” on an open top deck bus services, artworks and other original products which reflect Nice, greater Nice, local culture and specialties) n Nice Tourist Trains A practical guide to help you make the most of your stay. n Free entrance to major sights of the French Riviera: n Nice: Russian Church, National Museum Marc Chagall, Parc Phœnix… Antibes: Marineland (pass 72h uniquement), Nice Convention & Visitors Bureau Beaulieu: Villa Kérylos, n 5 Promenade des Anglais Biot: National Museum Fernand Léger, SALES n Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur (T1) Cagnes-sur-Mer: Château-Musée Grimaldi, Renoir Museum, n Gare SNCF, av. Thiers Eze: Exotic Garden, POINTS n www.nicetourisme.com Monaco: Exotic Garden, Oceanographic Museum, n Also available in some hotels in Nice St-Jean Cap Ferrat: Villa Euphrussi de Rothschild… n Nice Le Grand Tour n Tourist Trains Tour of Nice from the top of a double-decker bus. Departure every day from the Promenade des Anglais, across This original means of transport combined with guided tours in from jardin Albert-Ier (H5) for a 50-min guided tour, in 7 seven languages, offers the possibility of getting on and off the languages: tour of the Old Town, Flower Market, Place Masséna, bus at each of the stops. Discover the city from the top, with the Place Garibaldi, yachting harbour… 10-minute stop at the top of cornices and ornaments of architecture from the Belle Époque the Castle Hill to admire the superb panorama over Baie des or other periods, your head in the trees, to enjoy unique vistas Anges - and back. along the way or take a cultural break in the Matisse, Chagall or Price: €7 for adults - Children under 10: €4 the Russian Church that the bus serves. Departures every 30 min - winter: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; autumn: 6:00 pm; Tour duration 1h15 (non stop). summer: 7:00 pm. www.trainstouristiquesdenice.com Main stops: •Promenade des Anglais (H5) - Railway station (H3) n Le Cyclopolitain Two buses are accessible e Allo Cyclo: & +33 (0)826 10 00 03 (€0,15/min) Adult prices: 1 day pass: €20 - 2 day pass: €23 Discover the town in an ecological way, by electric tricycle. Enjoy Child prices: (4 to 11 years old): €5 - 1 day/2day pass: €12 the "Baie des Anges", "Old Nice" or "Shopping" themed trips. Senior/Student prices: €18. “Last tour” special price €12. Monday to Saturday; 10:30 am to 7:00 pm (spring-summer) / 10:30 am to €1 discount to collect in Convention & Visitors Bureau agencies (see p.86). 5:30 pm (autumn) / Prices: €15 for 1 passenger (guided tour) - €25 for 2 Tickets can be purchased from the driver. passengers (guided tour with comments). www.nicelegrandtour.com www.cyclopolitain.com Discovering Nice 38 Organised guided visits

n Cycle tours Three hours of guided tours in the town: Promenade des Anglais, old town, etc. Nice Cycle Tours & +33 (0)6 19999522 www.nicecycletours.com

n Gyropod Segway® tours Discover Nice with a new electric, ecological and modern way of getting around. Reservations required. Mobilboard & +33 (0)6 45507921 www.nice.mobilboard.com

n Fully electric car Three tourist routes to choose from, with GPS guidance. Visit my City & +33 (0)4 93160159 www.visitmycity.fr

n Sports car or classic car rides Rent a car classic & +33 (0)9 54002933 www.rentacarclassic.com

n Nice along the water This mini-cruise sails along Baie des Anges, the Cap de Nice, Cap Ferrat and enters the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Duration: approx 1 hr. Price: €13 for adults - €9 for children (age 4-10). Reservation required. Trans Côte d’Azur e & +33 (0)4 92004230 www.trans-cote-azur.com

n Guided tours on a minibus Tours are available for groups ranging from 2 to 8 persons, beginning from the hotel or any other meeting point to be defined with the service provider. (see list of service providers p.71).

n TOURS ON REQUEST Tour guides organise tours in various languages for individuals and groups. Information: Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Nice & +33 (0) 892707407 (€0,34/min) www.nicetourisme.com

Book your tour online - www.nicetourisme.com Nice, la lumière naturellement Discovering Nice 39 Introduction to the specialities of Nice n INTRODUCTION TO THE SPECIALITIES OF NICE n TRADITIONS Folk traditions C>8: n Costume For girls, the most widely used is that of the ‘bouquetière’ (flower l^i]i]Z[Vb^an girl): a red and white striped skirt, black velvet blouse and corset with embroidered black satin apron and shawl and, of course, the famous flat straw hat or capeline! For boys, fishermen’s garb: red and white striped breeches, broad red wool sash and white shirt with a broad closed collar. Nice has four groups of folk musicians and dancers who perform at local fetes and national and international events: La Ciamada Nissarda, Li Pichini Granuià de Nissa, Lou Caïreu Nissart and Nice la Belle. n The language of Nice Nissart is part of the linguistic family known as Occitan spoken from Catalonia to the Piedmontese valleys and as far north as the Limousin. The vocabulary is essentially drawn from Latin, spoken by Roman colonists who built the town of Cemenelum. The language of Nice is very much alive and, thanks to the efforts of dynamic cultural associations, it is being transmitted to younger generations. n Traditional music & theatre Theatre and song contribute to preserving a language and saving it from oblivion. Thus, the ‘Théâtre Niçois Francis Gag’ et ‘Lou Rodou Nissart’ regularly organize plays and the vocal groups ‘Lou Corou de Berra” and ‘La Belugada’ perform works from the traditional regional repertoire at festivities and during recitals.

;^cYdjgd[[Zghdc d_Y[jekh_ic[$Yec ÆC^XZl^i]i]Z;Vb^anÇ Discovering Nice 40 Introduction to the joys of Nice

n CULINARY SPECIALITIES n Main courses To highlight the authenticity of the cuisine Gnocchis: there are two kinds of gnocchi: made durum wheat of Nice (cuisine nissarde), UDOTSI (L’Union semolina (Romanstyle) or potatoes. Départementale des Offices du Tourisme & Syndicats d’Initiative des Alpes-Maritimes) Porquetta: stuffed suckling pig. created the label ‘Cuisine Nissarde, respect Ratatouille: tomatoes, bell peppers, aubergines, courgettes, de la Tradition’, which is granted to restau- onions and garlic sautéed separately then simmered together. rants featuring in their menu three traditional Raviolis niçois: filled with beef daube (stewed in wine sauce) and recipes selected and developed by a technical chard greens. committee. For the list of affiliated restaurants: Soupe au pistou: Soup made with leeks, carrots, celery, www.cotedazur-en-fetes.com courgettes, green beans, red or white beans and diced potatoes, and served with pesto (“pistou”) made with basil, garlic and n Starters cheese. Aïoli: mayonnaise with garlic and olive oil. Stockfish (estocafic): dried cod, soaked four or five days in Farcis: tomatoes, onions, round courgettes, running water, then cooked with onions, tomatoes and wine. aubergines, bell peppers, each with their After simmering for two hours, some anchovies and handful of own stuffing. olives are added. Fleurs de courgettes: fritters, to be eaten n Desserts warm with tomato sauce. Galette des rois: in the Comté de Nice and Provence, rather than Mesclun: mixed greens: dandelion, the traditional French galette popular for Epiphany and the roquette, chicory, purslane, bitter lettuce, beginning of the year, people have always preferred the ‘Gâteau chervil. des Rois’, a circle of brioche flavoured with orange-blossom Pan-bagnat: a small round loaf of white water and decorated with candied fruit. bread, split in two, rubbed with garlic on La tourte de blettes: pie made with Swiss chard grown on the both slices and filled with lettuce leaves, hills of Nice and pine nuts. slices of tomato, radishes, spring onions, celery, purple artichoke hearts, tuna in oil, Confiserie Florian: three anchovy fillets, vinegar, salt, pepper 14 QUAI PAPACINO (J5) and olive oil. & +33 (0)4 93554350 www.confiserieflorian.com Pissaladière: Onion tart with anchovy fillets and black olives. Free guided tours in five languages for individual visitors, to Salade niçoise: Bell pepper, tomato, celery, watch the processing of the region’s finest fruit and loveliest onion, hard-boiled egg or tuna, black olives flowers into confectionery: aperitifs, liqueurs, candied fruit, of Nice and, according to the season, tiny flavour sugar, orangettes, jams, candied fruit and flowers, fruit artichokes and young broad beans. paste and jellies, Florian chocolates, marrons glacés, La socca: A very thin crepe made with crystallized flowers, syrups, honey, caramels, almonds, chickpea flour and olive oil. calissons, nougats… Nice, a natural brilliance 41

n The wine of Bellet www.vinsdebellet.com Wines that enhance the cuisine of Nice: these AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) wines, red, white and rosé, have earned an excellent reputation in particular on the ‘star-studded’ tables of great restaurants in Nice and are made with grapes grown on the hills of Nice, just a 20-minute drive from the city centre. Some producers offer tours of their estates (D1). Information: & +33 (0) 892707407 (€0,34/min) www.nicetourisme.com n Wine museum - Cave Bianchi 7 rue Raoul Bosio (see p.35) & +33 (0)4 93856579 - www.cave‐bianchi.fr n Olives / Olive oil The AOC ‘olive de Nice’ is grown on a variety of olive tree called the ‘cailletier’ that thrives on the hills of the Alpes-Maritimes. Table olives are kept in brine made with sea salt for six months before being eaten, when they offer their incomparably fine, crisp fruity taste. AOC olive oil from Nice is made with olives picked from November to April, traditionally using the gaulage technique, beating the branches with a long pole. This extra virgin oil is produced in the 27 mills remaining in the département. The Alziari olive oil mill, the only one still operating in Nice, offers a chance to discover the making of olive oil year round. Free guided tour, free tasting. 318 bd de la Madeleine (E2) & +33 (0)4 93444512 - www.alziari.com.fr n Classes Workshops for learning to prepare the cuisine of Nice List of establishments: & +33 (0) 892707407 (€0,34/min) or www.nicetourisme.com

Nice, a natural brilliance 43 ports & leisure activities Sn Sporting activities n B e a c h e s n S h o p p i n g n Attractions & animal parks n Leisure activities - Nice by night

Sport and leisure come together in Nice, a seaside city on the Mediterranean, where life is so wonderful, and the temptation of recreational and athletic pursuits is vast and contributes to further enhancing your stay. Whether for water or winter sports, going to the beach or shopping, gambling or nightlife, Nice offers a multitude of pleasures.

Find all these activities on: www.nicetourisme.com www.cotedazur-tourisme.com www.cg06.fr www.randoxygene.com Sports and leisure activities 44 Sporting activities in Nice and Greater Nice

n SWIMMING POOLS n ICE RINK n INDOOR SWIMMING POOL n Palais des Sports Jean Bouin n Jean Bouin - Palais des Sports ESPLANADE DE LATTRE DE TASSIGNY ESPLANADE DE LATTRE DE TASSIGNY (J3) 2 RUE JEAN ALLÈGRE (J3) & +33 (0)4 97134954 & +33 (0)4 97134954

n Jean Médecin n TENNIS 178 RUE DE FRANCE (F5) n Centre Animation Loisirs & +33 (0)4 93862401 63 BD GORBELLA (H1) & +33 (0)4 92078650 n Saint-François (Closed in July / August) 6 clay courts and 3 hard courts, all with lighting. 13 PLACE SAINT-FRANÇOIS (I4) & +33 (0)4 93855308 n Tennis-Squash Club Vauban 18 RUE MARÉCHAL VAUBAN (J3) n Comte de Falicon e & +33 (0)4 93260978 13 BD COMTE DE FALICON (H1) 7 floodlit tennis courts and 4 air conditioned squash courts. & +33 (0)4 92078690 n Nice Lawn Tennis Club n OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL 5 AV. SUZANNE LENGLEN (G3) (in summer only) & +33 (0)4 92155800 - www.niceltc.com n Fernand Anelli (ex.Piol) 13 clay courts, 5 quick and 2 "padel" courts. 36 AV. PAUL ARÈNE (G3) & +33 (0)4 93969207 Possibility of renting courts by the hour by appointment. Days and times at www.nice.fr n INLINE SKATING n Roller attitude n HORSEBACK RIDING PALAIS DES SPORTS JEAN BOUIN (J3) n Crazy Horse Club & +33 (0)6 09075719 ROUTE DU MONT-LEUZE www.nice-roller-attitude.blogspot.com & +33 (0)4 93018411 Access to the rink (paying admission) Classes for beginners; reservation required. n Nice Equitation 368 RTE DE GRENOBLE (B4) & +33 (0)4 93831504 USEFUL INFORMATION: SPORTS PORTAL GOLF n The city of Nice has created an interactive web portal available 698 ROUTE DE GRENOBLE (A1) to Nice’s sporting associations and clubs presenting all of the +33 (0)4 93298200 & area’s sporting activities. It features a wealth of information, Practice compact nine-hole golf for events, articles, photos, videos. http://sports.nice.fr beginners and advanced.

For all levels, from beginners to international competitors, check out the Riviera’s golf courses at: www.cotedazur-tourisme.com Nice, a natural brilliance 45 n MOUNTAIN SPORTS & TREKKING n MULTI-ACTIVITIES IN GREATER NICE he sea with intensity: trekking with jet-skis off the coast of Nice, sea kayaking, deep-sea diving, outings at sea to observe dolphins, parascending… Then, change directions, head for the hinterland and the mountains for skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, bungee jumping, via ferrata, rock climbing, outings with sleigh dogs, rafting, mountain biking, outings in 4x4 vehicles, meetings with wolves, marmots and chamois… Nature offers itself to you in all its splendour.

Consult the guidebooks for the mountains, Nature, hiking… available [in French only] in Tourist Bureaus and La Maison du Département: Pays Côtier (coastal area) – Moyen Pays (near hinterland) – Haut Pays (mountain hinterland) – VTT (mountain biking) – Clues et canyons (canyons) – Raquettes à neige (snowshoeing) – Via Ferrata – Guide pratique (Practical guide). www.cg06.fr - www.randoxygene.org n Mercantour Park Just 90km from Nice and the beaches of the Riviera, many hikes and outdoor sports can be practised in the Mercantour National Park, one of ten National Parks in France. In the heart of the Park, human activity is regulated to preserve the great wealth of this territory and its fragility. ADMINISTRATIVE HEADQUARTERS: 23 RUE D’ITALIE & +33 (0)4 93167888 www.mercantour.eu (see p.67). n CONDITION OF THE SEA 46 Sports and leisure activities B e a c h e s GREEN FLAG : beach with lifeguards, no particular danger n BEACHES Over 7km, you can choose from 15 private beaches and 20 public beaches. The water is regularly tested and the quality is generally considered to be very good according to European ORANGE FLAG : swimming dangerous, but standards. The different water sports available are clearly lifeguards present because marked out. Swimming areas with lifeguards are located of choppy sea between the nautical base at Carras and the tip of Pointe des Ponchettes. For further information: www.nice.fr RED FLAG : no swimming

All private beaches offer mattresses, parasols, beach huts and showers from April to October and they all have restaurants by the sea. www.plagesdenice.com. Two public beaches have specific facilities providing access to the sea for disabled persons: Plage du Centenaire and Plage de Carras. (2-buoy handibeach label).

n Bambou 165 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (F5 - ACROSS FROM RUE LENVAL) & +33 (0)4 93866415. Children’s playground.

n Beau Rivage 107 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS (H5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL BEAU RIVAGE) & +33 (0)4 92478282 - www.beaurivage.com

n Blue Beach 32 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (G5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL WEST END) & +33 (0)4 93871036 - www.bluebeach.fr Volleyball, table tennis. Open year round.

n Castel 8 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS (I5 - AT THE FOOT OF THE HÔTEL LA PÉROUSE) & +33 (0)4 93852266 - www.castelplage.com

n Florida 71 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (F5 - ACROSS FROM THE CENTRE UNIVERSITAIRE MÉDITERRANÉEN) & +33 (0)4 93447286. Jacuzzi.

n Galion 3 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL MÉRIDIEN) & +33 (0)4 93881723 Nice, a natural brilliance S p o r t s a n d leisure activities 47 B e a c h e s

n Hi Beach 47 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)4 97140083 - www.hi-beach.net Play, Energy, Relax areas. Massages. Open from 1/04 to 30/10.

n Lido 15 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)4 93871825 – www.lidoplagenice.com n Miami Beach 197 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (F4) & +33 (0)9 51955357. Open year round. n Neptune PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (G5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL NEGRESCO) & +33 (0)4 93871660 - www.neptuneplage.com Playground with lifeguards.

n Opéra 30 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS (I 5 - ACROSS FROM THE OPÉRA) & +33 (0)4 93623152 n Régence 223 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (E6 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL RADISSON) +33 (0)4 97070309. Aquagym, swimming lessons. & n Ruhl 1 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL MÉRIDIEN) & +33 (0)4 93870970. Children’s swimming pool. n Sporting 25 PROMENADEDES ANGLAIS (G5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL WESTMINSTER) & +33 (0)4 93871810 n Voilier 58 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (F5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL ÉLYSÉE PALACE) & +33 (0)4 93440856 - www.levoilierplage.com Children’s playground.

Creation at Carras of “Audioplage” (F5) a special beach for visually impaired persons. Four buoys positioned in the sea, each at a distance of 15 metres. Users wearing an emitting device on their wrist can activate the buoys as they move around in the sea. The only requirement is to be a good swimmer. USEFUL INFORMATION 48 Nice, a natural brilliance Sports and leisure activities 49 B e a c h e s

n WATER SPORTS These establishments provide a chance to practise various activities on the beaches along Promenade des Anglais.

n BOAT-TOWED SPORTS n Glisse Evasion BLUE BEACH/NEPTUNE (G5 - ACROSS FROM THE HÔTEL NEGRESCO) & +33 (0)6 10270391 - www.glisse-evasion.com

n Nikaïa Water Sports OPÉRA/BEAU RIVAGE (H5 - ACROSS FROM OLD NICE) & +33 (0)6 09160216 - www.nikaiaglisse.com Parascending, waterskiing, wakeboarding, fly fishing, boat-towed buoys, canoeing & kayaking.

n JET-SKIS & SEA SCOOTERS n Jet Evasion PLAGE DE CARRAS (F5) & +33 (0)6 61458797 & + 33 (0)6 98105062 www.jetevasion06.com. June to September. Beginners, broad selection of discovery outings at sea.

n CLUBS DE PLONGÉE SOUS-MARINE n Poséidon (Baptisms and aquatic walks) QUAI LUNEL & +33 (0)4 92004386 - www.poseidon-nice.com

n CIP Nice (Baptisms) 2 RUELLE DES MOULINS & +33 (0)4 93555950/+33 (0)6 09525557 - www.cip-nice.com

n Nautile Plongée (Baptisms & Snorkelling) QUAI LUNEL & +33 (0)6 09557145 - www.nautile-diving.com

n Nice Diving (Baptisms & Snorkelling) 14 QUAI DES DOCKS & +33 (0)4 93894244 /+33 (0)6 14460406 www.nicediving.com

n Centre de Découverte du Monde Marin (Snorkelling) 50 BD FRANCK PILATTE & +33 (0)4 93553333 - www.cdmm.fr Sports and leisure activities 50 S h o p p i n g

55 shops and a two-level car park. Open Monday to Saturday, SHOPPING n hypermarket from 8:30 to 10:00 pm and shops from 9:00 am to 8:30 pm. n THE BOUTIQUES n Le Carré d’Or (H4) OLD NICE, ARTISTS & CRAFTSMEN (I5) Like all major international cities, the heart of Nice offers some n With over 600 shops, Old Nice is the largest outdoor shopping fifty shops and the most prestigious brands in what is truly a area on the French Riviera. Many boutiques offer local specialities ‘golden square’ (Alphonse Karr, Rue Paradis, av. de Suède & de and typical gifts, in particular around Cours Saleya. Nearby, Place Verdun): Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, Cartier, Armani, Ventilo, Garibaldi marks the boundary between the old town and the new, Façonnable, Lepage, Longchamp, Kenzo, Max Mara, Sonia opening eastward on Avenue de la République, a bustling street Rykiel… and many more boutiques displaying elegant creations. with many shops near the Acropolis Convention Centre. n Pedestrian streets & the city centre (H4/5) THE MARKETS OF NICE The area of Place Masséna and the neighbouring pedestrian n e Cours Saleya is one of the busiest parts of Old Nice with its streets offer a succession of famous brands, couturiers, flower market; many of its products from the greenhouses on jewellers and luxury boutiques. Avenue Jean-Médecin and its the hills of Nice exhale their subtle fragrances dominated by the side streets are bustling with activity. perfume of mimosa in winter. Every morning, except Monday and public holidays. n DEPARTMENT STORES AND SHOPPING CENTRES n Galeries Lafayette Nice Masséna e The fruit and vegetable market was selected by the National 6 AV. JEAN MÉDECIN (H4) Culinary Arts Council as one of France’s most picturesque & +33 (0)4 92173636 - www.galerieslafayette.com markets. The antiques market replaces the fruits and Second store for international clients after Paris, while vegetables under the striped awnings on Monday from 7:00am confirming the heritage of Baron Haussmann, offers a total of to 6:00 pm except on the eve of holidays, and on Place Garibaldi, 13,000m2 on 5 levels with a new design for displaying famous on the 3rd Saturday of each month. brands including Dior, for which they are sole distributor; A summer evening crafts market is held from mid May to mid 600 brands in all, represented in a broad range of items. September 6:00 pm to 0:30 am. For a coffee break or a convivial lunch, “La Table” provides a Place Saint-François hosts the fish market every morning from breathtaking view on Place Masséna. Two car parks nearby: 6:00 am to 1:00 pm, except Monday (I4). Corvésy and Masséna. A marvellous example of success and renovation, Place du Palais de Justice hosts theme markets: used & antique books n Nice Étoile shopping mall e on the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 5:00 30 AV. JEAN MÉDECIN (H4) & +33 (0)4 92173817 - www.nicetoile.com pm, antique postcards on the 4th Saturday of each month. (I5). In the very heart of Nice, on the city’s main street, this urban ANTIQUE DEALERS shopping mall offers 100 shops on 19,000m2, for all the pleasure n of shopping in spacious contemporary architecture. n Village Ségurane RUE ANTOINE GAUTIER, RUE CATHERINE SÉGURANE, Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 7:30 pm. Parking 24h/day. RUE EMMANUEL PHILIBERT ET RUE DE FORESTA (IJ5) www.nice-antic.fr. n TNL Shopping mall e Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm & 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm. 15 BD GÉNÉRAL DELFINO (J4) & +33 (0)4 93568240 - www.nicetnl.com Marché aux Puces In the city centre (Riquier district), amid 15,000m2 of terraced n PLACE ROBILANTE (I5) gardens, this shopping centre features a 6,000m2 hypermarket, Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. ©2011 - CH - RCS B440 488 278. 55 boutiques

carrefour.fr

della città della

Direzione

Acropolis centro OUVERT DU LUNDI AU SAMEDI SAMEDI AU LUNDI DU OUVERT Acropolis AU COEUR DE NICE DE COEUR AU Direction CARREFOUR TNL CARREFOUR P center town CENTRE NICE TNL 1H30 GRATUITE1H30 TNL NICE CENTRE PLACES800 DE 8H30 À 22H Acropolis Direction centre ville Sports and leisure activities 52 S h o p p i n g

Rue Biscarra Nice, a natural brilliance Sports and leisure activities 53 S h o p p i n g

PATRIMOINE HISTORIQUE HISTORICAL HERITAGE Tour Bellanda (ascenseur) Palais Caïs de Pierlas / Matisse Maison d'Adam et Eve Galerie de la Marine Chapelle de la Miséricorde Galerie des Ponchettes Théâtre municipal de l’Opéra Eglise Saint-François de Paule Palais Corvésy Palais Rusca Palais Spitalieri de Cessole Palais de Justice Palais des Ducs de Savoie SHOPPING AREAS Eglise Sainte-Rita Neighbourhood shops Chapelle du Saint-Suaire Luxury shops Palais du Sénat Eglise du Jésus Department stores Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate Traditional arts & crafts Palais Lascaris Antiques dealers Chapelle Sainte-Croix Pedestrian Streets Couvent de la Visitation Palais Communal Tour Saint-François Monument de Catherine Ségurane Eglise Saint-Martin / Saint-Augustin Chapelle du Saint-Sépulcre Place Garibaldi Office du Tourisme et des Congrès Convention and Visitors Bureau Parking autocar / Coach parking Parking voiture / Car park Parking avec franchise Car park with free parking (1/2 ou 1 hour) T Station de taxis / Taxi stand Trajet/arrêt du tramway Tramway stops & itinerary Sports and leisure activities 54 Attractions and animal parks

n LEISURE PARKS sensorial shows), discover the time of humans, with four n Phœnix floral park e colourful characters who share their knowledge of wolves, 405 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (C7/8) before entering the time of wolves through the forest house to & +33 (0)4 92297700 - www.nice.fr meet the inhabitants of this pristine site. On the west of Nice, this floral park is entirely dedicated to Nature. This is a n MEETING MARINE MAMMALS fabulous place for fun educational botanical n Acti Loisirs discovery on 7 hectares for young and old & +33 (0)4 93620016 / +33 (0)6 03783085 alike. Parc Phœnix is also an area for the www.dauphin-mediterranee.com general public with a scientific platform A striking experience: an excursion in the Mediterranean linked to the environment. Reserve, 4 hours leaving from Villefranche-sur-Mer. Admission free for children under age 12. De juin à septembre. 2 hours free parking at Parking de l’Arénas. (weekends / holidays and in summer). n AMV & +33 (0)4 93766565 - www.amv-sirenes.com n Le Labyrinthe de l’Aventure Mediterranean marine mammal photo safari. 4-hour trip 2559 ROUTE DE GRASSE - VILLENEUVE-LOUBET departing from Villefranche-sur-Mer. & +33 (0)4 92020606 June to September. www.lelabyrinthedelaventure.com A challenge-filled course through 4km of n OTHER ACTIVITIES paths and cul-de-sacs in an environment of n Curiosities and Unusual Objects Museum plants and flowers with clues and 39 RUE BEAUMONT passwords to find your way through the & +33 (0)4 92046932 - www.museedelacuriosite.com maze. 40 games to discover. Come and discover the marvellous world of magic, automatons, dreams and the bizarre in this small museum. Courses in magic, n ANIMAL PARKS birthday parties, and automaton hire. n Marineland e 306 AV. MOZART - ANTIBES n Boulodrome & +33 (0) 892 30 06 06 - www.marineland.fr PORT DE CARRAS - 240 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (E6) Marineland - Shows by marine mammals, To learn to play pétanque - 4 pétanque grounds by the sea open attractions… Aquasplash, Adventure Golf, to everyone. the Wild West Farm and Antibes Land amusement park… n Hippodrome Côte d'Azur (racecourse) e BD KENNEDY - CAGNES-SUR-MER n Scénoparc Alpha & + 33 (0)4 92024444 - www.hippodrome-cotedazur.com LE BORÉON - SAINT-MARTIN VÉSUBIE By the sea, the racecourse offers an exceptional panoramic view, & +33 (0)4 93023369 a magical 60-hectare site for horse races by day and by night, www.alpha-loup.com horse shows and specific events. Le temps du Loup: just an hour’s drive from Restaurants, free parking, children’s playground. the coast, in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, a visit with the family for 2 or 3 hours to discover the world of wolves and their story. Thanks to ‘scenovision’ (multi- Nice, a natural brilliance 55 56 Nice, a natural brilliance Sports and leisure activities 57 Leisure activities - Nice by night

n BOWLING AND BILLARD n CASINOS n Bowling / billards Acropolis n Casino Ruhl e 5 ESPLANADE KENNEDY (J4) 1 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)4 93553311 - www.bowling-amf.com & +33 (0)4 97031222 - www.lucienbarriere.com With 24 bowling alleys & 9 billiard tables, the Bowling de Nice is The largest selection of slot machines on the French Riviera, a one of the largest in France. sumptuous gaming room as well as two restaurants, two bars Open 7day/wk, 12:00 pm to 2:30 am weekdays & 10:00 am to 4:00 am & an auditorium with concerts, one-man shows, theme soirees, weekends. fashion shows. Open every day, 10:00 am to 4:00 am (5:00 am Friday/Saturday). n Académie de billard Louis XI - 22 tables. 45 BD RENÉ CASSIN (D7) n Casino du Palais de la Méditerranée e & +33 (0)4 93725505 15 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)4 92146808 - www.partouche-casino-nice.fr n Billard Club de Nice - French billiards: 13 tables. An exceptional venue. 200 slot machines, four poker, two English 35 AV. DU RAY (H1) roulette and two Black Jack tables, two restaurants, a concert & +33 (0)4 93844913 hall with a capacity of 1,000 people. Open every day, 10:00 am to 5.00 am friday & Saturday. n Le Players Pub (Billiard) n NICE BY NIGHT 12 RUE HALÉVY (H5) The golden hues of the morning give way to the powdery mauve +33 (0)4 93855843 & of the evening… Aperitif on Cours Saleya or a trendy lounge bar, gastronomic, exotic or trendy dinner, late-night salsa, disco, jazz, cabaret or casino… You can prepare your evening as you like! Cours Saleya, Old Nice, the Port, the Pedestrian Area and the city centre: within this perimeter, you will find a concentration and variety of theme bars, clubs, discotheques and lounge bars to make merry until the wee hours of the night. The guide to "Restaurants & Vie Nocturne" (restaurants and nightlife), available in our bureaus, lists the bars, pubs, discotheques… Available for downloading at www.nicetourisme.com

Nice, a natural brilliance 59 rom Nice Fn Coastal towns & cities n Balconies on the French Riviera n The hinterland of Nice, the valleys n The ski resorts n The Mercantour National Park n Suggested tourist itineraries

From Nice, along the tiny winding roads of the hinterland or the legendary busy roads along the sea, you can discover the splendid coastal towns, lovely perched villages, rugged valleys, natural parks, towering mountains… The surroundings of Nice are brimming with ideas for outings and unexpected discovery. F r o m N i c e 60 Coastal towns and cities

n MANDELIEU-LA NAPOULE n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 92979927 - www.ot-mandelieu.fr Sights: the Gulf, Château de La Napoule, the San Peyre natural park on a promontory facing the sea. Panorama over the Gulf of la Napoule, the Isles of Lérins, the Estérel mountains and the pre-Alps and the mimosa forest.

n MENTON n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 92417676 - www.menton.fr COASTAL TOWNS FROM NICE Sights: the old town, the Saint-Michel-Archange basilica and its n parvis, the harbour, Jean Cocteau Museum, Regional Prehistory n ANTIBES-JUAN-LES-PINS Museum, exceptional gardens: Palais Carnolès (citrus trees), n Tourist Bureau & + 33 (0)4 97231111 - www.antibes-juanlespins.com Villa Maria-Séréna, Clos du Peyronnet, Serre de la Madone, Val Sights: Port Vauban, the old town, its narrow streets and flowe Rahmeh Museum (exotic botanical garden). decked squares, Cathedral, ramparts, Picasso Museum, Peynet Museum, Naval Museum, Villa Thuret garden and Parc Exflora. n PRINCIPALITY OF MONACO n Tourist Bureau + 377 92166116 - www.monaco-tourisme.com n BEAULIEU-SUR-MER & Sights: on the Rock - Princes’ Palace and changing of the guard, n Tourist Bureau & + 33 (0)4 93010221 - www.otbeaulieusurmer.fr Oceanographic Museum, the old town. Sights: Villa Kerylos, a listed historic building recreating an Monte Carlo: the Casino, National Museum of Dolls, Japanese ancient Greek home, and its Mediterranean garden. garden. Fontvieille: HSH the Prince of Monaco’s collection of Open in the afternoon (guided tours available); film on the history of the vi tage cars, the Naval Museum and the Animal Garden. Riviera. Monéghetti: the Exotic Garden, Observatory Cave and Anthropology Museum. n CANNES SAINT-JEAN-CAP-FERRAT n Tourist Bureau n & +33 (0)4 92998422 - www.cannes.travel n Tourist Bureau Sights: La Croisette and the Festival Hall, luxury shops in the city & +33 (0)4 93760890 - www.saint-jean-cap-ferrat.fr centre, Old Cannes and the hill of Le Suquet, the square tower, Sights: the village, the harbour, Sainte-Hospice Chapel (18th Musée de la Castre, panorama over the Bay of Cannes, the century) and the Black Madonna, Villa Ephrussi-de-Rothschild Estérel Massif and the Isles of Lérins. and its theme gardens, Museum of Shells, Zoo.

VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-MER n CAP D’AIL n Tourist Bureau n Tourist Bureau n & +33 (0)4 93780233 - www.cap-dail.fr & +33 (0)4 93017368 - www.villefranche-sur-mer.org Sights: its rocky promontories and luxuriant parks and gardens, Sights: the Bay, 16th-century citadel and the Volti Museum, the maritime pines with Mediterranean fragrances, Belle-Époque harbour and its colourful façades, Saint-Pierre Chapel, the old villas, gardens, beaches; a coastal trail offers a particularly town, Rue Obscure. pleasant walk with a panoramic view. Guided tours every Thursday. Nice, a natural brilliance 61

n SAINT-TROPEZ (Var department) its altarpieces and trompe-l’oeil decoration; the exotic garden in n Tourist Bureau the ruins of the mediaeval fortress on the rocky peak overlooking & + 33 (0)8 92684828 - www.ot-saint-tropez.com the sea. Sights: the village, its picturesque narrow streets and Provençal squares, the harbour, 16th-century citadel and Naval Museum; n GRASSE famous sandy beaches (Pampelonne, Tahiti…) and splendid pine n Tourist Bureau groves along the peninsula of Saint-Tropez that can be explored & +33 (0)4 93366666 - www.grasse.fr along several ‘Conservatoire du Littoral’ coastal trails. The perfume capital. free tours of perfumeries. Sights: the old town, the Cathedral, Place aux Aires and its n BALCONIES OVER THE FRENCH RIVIERA market (14th-century arcaded square); the International n BIOT Perfumery Museum, Fragonard Museum, Museum of Art and n Tourist Bureau History of Provence, Naval Museum, Museum of Provençal & +33 (0)4 93657800 - www.biot.fr Costume and Jewellery. Sights: the old village and its 15th-century Church, Fernand Léger National Museum and glassblowers. n LES HAUTS DE CAGNES-SUR-MER n Tourist Bureau n ÈZE VILLAGE & +33 (0)4 93206164 - www.cagnes-tourisme.com n Tourist Bureau Sights: The fortified mediaeval town of Haut-de-Cagnes, its steep & +33 (0)4 93412600 - www.eze-riviera.com narrow streets decked with flowers, 14th-century castle; Renoir Sights: the mediaeval village perched high above the Museum and millennium-old olive trees; picturesque Mediterranean with its narrow streets lined with artists’ and village of Cros-de-Cagnes. craftsmen’s studios and perfumeries. The Baroque Church with F r o m N i c e 62 Balconies on the French Riviera

n MOUGINS n VALLAURIS GOLFE-JUAN n Tourist Bureau n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93758767 - www.mougins-coteazur.org & +33 (0)4 93638258 - www.vallauris-golfe-juan.fr Sights: Museum de l’Automobiliste and Museum of Photography. Sights: The Castle-Museum, Magnelli Museum and Museum of Ceramics in the Castle compound, National Picasso Museum in n ROQUEBRUNE-CAP-MARTIN theRomanesque Chapel. n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93356287 - www.roquebrune-cap-martin.com n VENCE Guided tour of the mediaeval village and castle Walk along the n Tourist Bureau coastal trail with the famous architect Le Corbusier’s cottage. & +33 (0)4 93580638 - www.vence.fr Sights: the historic town and 11th-century Cathedral, Chapelle n SAINTE-AGNÈS du Rosaire decorated by Matisse, Château de Villeneuve, n Tourist Bureau Château de Notre-Dame des Fleurs (Galerie Beaubourg). & +33 (0)4 93358735 - www.sainteagnes.fr The highest coastal village in Europe, 780m above sea level. n VILLENEUVE-LOUBET Sights: the Maginot fort, Notre-Dame des Neiges Church, n Tourist Bureau mediaeval Saint-Sébastien Chapel, ruins of the mediaeval castle & +33 (0)4 92026616 - www.ot-villeneuveloubet.org and the garden, “Espace, Culture & Tradition” Museum. Sights: the old village and its narrow paved streets, Saint-Marc Church, mural and old washhouses, Museum of Culinary Art, Art n SAINT-PAUL-DE-VENCE History Museum. n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93328695 - www.saint-pauldevence.com n THE HINTERLAND OF NICE Sights: the fortified village, 12th-century Church, 16th-century n Le canton aux 10 sourires ramparts and panorama over the hills and the sea, Fondation Tourist Association of the Canton of Levens Maeght (contemporary art), Contemporary Art Museum, Local & +33 (0)4 93087631 - www.cantondelevens.com History Museum. Nearby: la Colle-sur-Loup and its antique The Association groups several villages, rich in history and dealers. tradition. Theme days and weekends: ‘Route des Saveurs’ (the Route of Flavours, to discover local cuisine), ‘Route des n TOURRETTES-SUR-LOUP (city of violets) Oliviers’ (Route of Olive Trees, to visit oil mills and sample local n Tourist Bureau products), ‘Route des Chevaliers’ (Knights’ Route, to discover art & +33 (0)4 93241893 - www.tourrettessurloup.com and history and visit mediaeval sites). Sights: the mediaeval village and its ramparts, Rue de la Bourgade, Aqueduc du Moulin, Saint-Grégoire Church, Saint- n COARAZE Jean Chapel, Gorges of the Gorges of the Loup. The citrus garden n Tourist Bureau of Confiserie Florian created in 1996 featuring citrus trees and & +33 (0)4 93793747 – www.ot-coaraze.com plants for confectionery (Seville oranges, lemon, tangerine, Sights: sundials designed by famous contemporary artists, orange trees…) and Mediterranean plants (violets, verbena, Saint-Sébastien Chapel, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, the roses, jasmine, rosemary, myrtle…) In the heart of this mediaeval village and mediaeval ruins of Roccasparviera, exceptional site, the golden fruit of the Riviera have been Notre-Dame du Gressier Chapel. transformed for over a half-century to make candied fruit and other delicacies. Confiserie Florian - www.confiserieflorian.com

F r o m N i c e 64 Balconies on the French Riviera

n GOURDON n PEILLON n Tourist Bureau n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93096825 - www.gourdon-france.com & +33 (0)6 75693749 – www.tourisme-peillon.com Sights: listed among the most beautiful villages in France, this Sights: White Penitents’ Chapel (1495), Saint-Sauveur de la mediaeval town in perched on a rocky peak 650m above sea level, Transfiguration Church, ruins of the fortress at the highest point with an incomparable view over 80 kilometres of the French in the village, ancient Roman road to Peille, oil and flour mills, Riviera between Nice and Théoule-sur-Mer; many gardens. bronze sculpture studio.

n L’ESCARÈNE n ROYA-BÉVÉRA VALLEY / www.royabevera.com n Tourist Bureau n BREIL-SUR-ROYA & +33 (0)4 93796293 - www.escarene.fr n Tourist Bureau Sights: Square of the Saint-Pons Benedictin abbey, Saint-Pierre & +33 (0)4 93049976 - www.breil-sur-roya.fr parish Church, former Hôtel de la Gabelle (where the salt tax Sights: the little town in a bend in the Roya River, the spectacular was collected), 18th-century oil mill, mausoleum of the First Church of Santa Maria in Albis (17th century), Chapelle de la Free French Division. Miséricorde, seven organs in the valleys, Notre-Dame du Mont Chapel, Saint-Marc Church, Sainte-Catherine Chapel, Porte de n LEVENS Gênes (Genoa gate). Not to be missed: Les Baroquiales, baroque n Tourist Bureau music festival. & +33 (0)4 93797100 - www.levenstourisme.com Sights: Saint-Antonin parish Church (12th century), Chapels of n FONTAN the White and Black Penitents, ‘Maison du Portal’ (art gallery), n Town hall the Church tower of Saint-Antoine de Siga, old oil mills. & +33 (0)4 93045001 - www.fontan-tourisme.com Sights: Notre-Dame de la Visitation baroque parish Church, n LUCÉRAM Château de la Causéga, old central fountain, façades of houses n Tourist Bureau with trompel’oeil decorations. Free guided tour of village year round. & +33 (0)4 93794650 - www.luceram.fr Sights: Sainte-Marguerite Church, defensive tower and n LA BRIGUE ramparts (14th century), seven Chapels, Museum of old tools and n Tourist Bureau local traditions, oil mill. & +33 (0)4 93790934 - www.labrigue.fr Not to be missed: “the Christmas cribs” in winter. Sights: Saint-Martin Collegiate Church, Annonciation Chapel (18th century), Saint-Michel Chapel, Assomption Chapel, n PEILLE Notre-Dame des Fontaines sanctuary, ruins of the mediaeval n Town hall castle of the Lascaris family, Museum of Beekeeping Traditions, & +33 (0)4 93917171 - www.peille.fr Museum of Old Tools. Sights:the old fortified gate of L’Arma, Tower in the rampart, Sainte-Marie Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Church (12th n SAORGE century), Palais of the Lascaris family (17th century) on the edge n Town hall of the cliff, Saint-Sébastien Chapel (13th century), Chapelle de & +33 (0)4 93045123 - www.saorge.fr la Miséricorde, Saint-Joseph Chapel, Musée du Terroir (local Sights: Saint-Sauveur parish Church (15th century), Franciscan tradition), via ferrata. convent, La Madone del Poggio Chapel, Saint-Jacques Chapel, Saint-Sébastien Chapel, panoramic view from the ruins of the castle of Mallemort. Hiking and trout fishing. Nice, a natural brilliance 65 n SOSPEL n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93041580 - www.sospel-tourisme.com Sights: the mediaeval town, trompe-l’oeil façades, Saint-Michel Cathedral and its square (Baroque architecture). n TENDE n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93047371 - www.tendemerveilles.com Sights: the mediaeval town and its vaulted passageways, chapels, Collegiate Church, ruins of the Castle, Musée des Merveilles (a tribute to Vallée des Merveilles, the largest outdoor museum featuring over 30,000 Bronze Age rock carvings). n VÉSUBIE VALLEY n BELVÉDÈRE n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93035166 – www.vesubian.com Sights: its picturesque narrow streets, Maison du Chevalier, Mai- son du Tribunal, tall fortified houses, the oil and flour mill, Place des Pénitents Blancs, Saint-Pierre et Paul Church, Museum of Milk. Outings and treks in the Gordolasque Valley, Vallée des Merveilles and in the Mercantour National Park. n LA BOLLÈNE VÉSUBIE n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93036054 - www.labollenevesubie.fr Sights: Museum of Entomology, Saint-Laurent Church, flour mill, L’Authion Massif, Vallée des Merveilles, Turini-Camp d’Argent ski resort, Le Rustique Cultural and Tourist Centre. n LANTOSQUE n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93030002 - www.vesubian.com Sights: its many hamlets, Saint-Pons Church, Sainte-Claire Cha- pel (15th century), Notre-Dame des Anges Church in Pélasque, St-Arnoux Church and ruins of the 13th-century castle in Loda, Pont du Martinet (bridge), Gordolon fort, Notre-Dame de la Balma Sanctuary, Poggioli Museum, Notre-Dame de Lourdes Chapel. F r o m N i c e 66 Balconies on the French Riviera

n ROQUEBILLIÈRE n VENANSON n Tourist Bureau n Town hall & +33 (0)4 93035160 - www.vesubian.com & +33 (0)4 93032305 - www.venanson.fr The French Riviera’s only health resort. Sights: Saint-Michel Church, Sainte-Claire Chapel, Saint-Roch Sights: Saint-Michel de Gast Church (early 14th century), White Chapel, communal bread oven, Les Granges district, old Penitents’ Chapel, Madone de Berthemont Chapel. washhouse, varied flora.

n SAINT-MARTIN VÉSUBIE Discovery Vésubie valley: www.vesubian.com n Tourist Bureau & +33 (0)4 93032128 - www.saintmartinvesubie.fr n TINÉE VALLEY - SKI RESORTS Sights: rue Cagnoli, Sainte-Anne Gate, the parish church, Musée n ST-ETIENNE-DE-TINÉE - AURON Altitude: 1,140m and 1,600m des Traditions Vésubiennes. Hikes: Madone de Fenestre & +33 (0)4 93230266 - www.auron.com Sanctuary, Vallée des Merveilles. Winter activities: skiing, snowboard, skating, hiking. Not to be missed: Parc Alpha, to observe wolves (see p.54) Summer activities: rock climbing, excursions, golf, gym, acrobatic forest itinerary, swimming pool, horseback riding, Les n UTELLE Trinitaires lake, tennis, hiking, archery, via ferrata, trampoline, n Town hall mountain bike. & +33 (0)4 93031701 - www.vesubian.com Sights: the mediaeval village, its original trompe-l’oeil façades, remarkable sundials, Saint-Véran Church, oil mill, Sainte-Croix Chapel, La Madone d’Utelle (sanctuary overlooking the village). Nice, a natural brilliance 67

n ISOLA - ISOLA 2000 Altitude 862m and 2,000m Find all the winter resorts in the Alpes-Maritimes on & +33 (0)4 93 23 15 15 - www.isola2000.com www.cotedazur-tourisme.com Winter activities: skiing, snowboard, ice skating, go-kart on ice, hiking, skidoos, snowshoeing, horse-drawn carriage, heliskiing, n MERCANTOUR NATIONAL PARK night skiing. Summer activities: mountain bike, horse-drawn www.mercantour.eu carriage, Aquavallée centre, bungee jumping and trampoline, Mercantour National Park, France’s 7th national park out of 10, horseback riding, country kids, golf and mini-golf, paintball, and is the only crossborder park with Italy. tennis, gondola lift, adventure park. Exceptionally rich flora: over 2,000 varieties of flowers identified (out of 4,000 known flower varieties in France), 200 of them are n VALBERG Altitude 1,670m rare species, 30 are endemic; some of them since the end of the & +33 (0)4 93 23 24 25 - www.valberg.com Ice Age. Forests (larch forest with the oldest larch trees in France Winter activities: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, mountain going back some 1,300 years), alpine lawns, meadows, flowers, trekking. Summer activities: Espace Valberg Aventure (tree clim- waterfalls, lakes, gorges… All this forms an exceptional natural bing), golf, tennis, swimming pool, quad, mountain bike, Fun heritage. The fauna includes chamois, ibex, marmots, eagles and Trampo (trampoline), summer toboggan, trout fishing, canoeing wolves. Vallée des Merveilles, in the eastern part of the Park, is and kayaking, archery, mountain trekking, horseback riding. accessible from the village of Tende. Mont Bégo, culminating at 2,872m, offers the richest series of open-air rock carvings in n VALDEBLORE - LA COLMIANE Altitude 1,500m Europe, with over 15km2 on which 40,000 petroglyphs have been & +33 (0)4 93232590 - www.colmiane.com identified dating from 3800 to 1880 BC. Winter activities: skiing, snowboard, quad, hiking, snowshoeing. Summer activities: Colmiane Forest tree climbing, paragliding, horseback riding, canyoneering, gondola lift, mountain bike, summer toboggan, ‘trottinerbe’ (cross-country scooter), golf and mini-golf, via ferrata, swimming pool, tennis... F r o m N i c e 68 Suggested tourist itineraries

n PRACTICAL ACCESS FROM NICE n BY CAR VALLÉE DE LA VÉSUBIE: RD6202 then RD2565. VALLÉE DE LA TINÉE: RD6202 then RD2205. VALLÉE DU VAR/CIANS: RD6202 then RD2202 RD6202 then RD28. VALLÉE DU VERDON: RD6202 then RD908. VALLÉE DE L’UBAYE: RD6202 then RD2205 & RD64 via col de la Bonette. Open from June to September. VALLÉE DE LA ROYA-BÉVÉRA: motorway, towards Menton/Gênes, exit at Ventimiglia (Vintimille); then RD6204 towards Col de Tende, Cuneo. More picturesque: the road over the passes, Col de Braus & Col de Brouis, Sospel & Breil / Roya RD2204 et RD2566.

n BY COACH n Informations & Reservations & +33 (0) 892701206 - www.cg06.fr There is regular coach service daily from Nice to each of the Mercantour valleys (Alpes-Maritimes).

n BY TRAIN Contact: (see p.69) The Roya Valley is accessible by train from Nice. The train stops in Sospel, Breil-sur-Roya, St-Dalmas de Tende and Tende. The so-called ‘Train des Pignes’ (pinecone train), although it does not go into the Mercantour Park, goes through the Var and Verdon Valleys (Puget-Théniers, Annot, Thorame, Digne-les-Bains), starting from Nice. n SUGGESTED TOURIST ITINERARIES Here are some ideas for devising your own discovery tour using different means of transportation to reach the selected towns and villages. non-exhaustive list.

n Baroque art in the Comté de Nice and Liguria & + 33 (0)4 93042220 - www.royabevera.com ou www.cg06.fr From the coast to the hinterland of the Alpes-Maritimes, this route includes 80 of the finest sacred and civil monuments that are part of a priceless architectural heritage. Signs have been placed along the way to guide visitors. Guided tours every Monday in summer. Nice, a natural brilliance F r o m N i c e 69 Suggested tourist itineraries n Gardens of the Riviera n SNCM - Ferryterranée e & +33 (0)4 92417676 - www.villedementon.com QUAI DU COMMERCE (J5) From Mandelieu to Menton, this bucolic route includes some & +33(0)4 93136666 / 3260 (€0,15/min) - www.sncm.fr sixty fine gardens designed for rich winter visitors, crowned heads and amateur artists who came to the French Riviera in the n THE FRENCH RIVIERA BY TRAIN late 19th and early 20th centuries to enjoy the gentle life. Along the coast, the TER (Transport Express Régional) provides regular service to all the coastal towns between Saint- Raphaël n Niçois primitive painters: the Brea family and Ventimiglia. In the hinterland, the Nice-Tende-Turin line is General Council of the Alpes-Maritimes - www.cg06.fr a picturesque train that takes passengers daily to the villages in Discovery of sacred art in the former Comté de Nice and Western the Roya-Bévéra Valley and beyond to Limone, Cuneo and Turin. Liguria: often hidden, these treasures form a unique religious heritage, remarkable for its spiritual, intellectual and aesthetic n Service Transport Express Régional (TER) e qualities. & 0 891 70 3000 (0,23€/min) www.ter-sncf.com (timetable/services) n On the road of perched villages www.agglo-nice.fr/culture-tourisme & 0892 35 35 35 The Communauté Urbaine Nice Côte d’Azur conurbation offers www. sncf.fr (information) many suggestions for tours and discoveries through the thirteen perched villages that so beautifully complete its coastal façade n Le Train des Merveilles (Aspremont, Saint-Jeannet, Falicon, la Roquette-sur-Var, Service Transport Express Régional (TER) Saint-Blaise, Castagniers, Èze, Duranus, Coaraze, Levens, This tourist train provides service to the Paillon and Roya-Bévéra Tourrette-Levens, la Gaude and Colomars). Valleys and the Mercantour Park (where Vallée des Merveilles is located). Small picturesque villages can be seen all along the Suggestions for itineraries, excursions and leisure railway. There is an ‘espace rotonde’ with panoramic windows activities in the “Guide de la Nature Active” printed by the so travellers can admire the mountain landscapes. In summer, Comité Régional du Tourisme: www.cotedazur-tourisme.com activities are organized for tourists every day. Association développement tourisme Roya Bévéra (ADTRB) n ESCAPADES AT SEA & + 33 (0)4 93049205 - www.royabevera.com Enjoying the sea as a means of transportation or as a place for excursions. n Chemins de Fer de Provence e 4 BIS RUE ALFRED BINET (H3) n Trans Côte d’Azur e & + 33 (0)4 97038080 - www.trainprovence.com QUAI LUNEL (J5) Set out to discover the Mediterranean hinterland by train, on the & +33 (0)4 92987130 - www.trans-cote-azur.com Chemins de Fer de Provence! Between Nice and Digne-les- Coastal outings: Monaco, Isles of Lérins, Corniche d’Or, Bains, on an itinerary that is picturesque all along the way, St-Tropez. discover perched villages, impressive gorges and lavender fields. This unique journey to the heart of Upper Provence is a n REGULAR CROSSINGS TO CORSICA wonderful way to explore and discover the land. n Corsica Ferries e Possibility of excursion including lunch in a restaurant in a QUAI AMIRAL INFERNET (J5) village of the hinterland. & +33(0)8 25095095 - www.corsicaferries.com F r o m N i c e 70 Suggested tourist itineraries

n BY HELICOPTER Another way to discover Nice and its region! Many possibilities for discovery and panoramic flights available. Prices vary according to the number of passengers (5 max). Information: & +33 (0) 892707407 (€0,34/min) www.nicetourisme.com

n EXCURSIONS BY COACH Explore the French Riviera with all-day excursions or shorter. Discover different territories (Provence, Lubéron, hinterland of Nice), culture, nature, leisure and entertainment, gastronomy and oenology: let us guide you according to the seasons and your wishes, take advantage of comprehensive theme offerings.

n Santa Azur 11 AV. JEAN MÉDECIN (H4) & +33 (0)4 97036000 - www.santa-azur.com

n Vacances Bleues Excursions 23 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)6 15 42 13 02 - [email protected]

n EXCURSIONS BY MINIBUS n Discover Nice… and the Comté de Nice! The minibus is a way to discover the surrounding towns and villages in small groups. An ideal solution for families! Pre- defined itineraries to the main tourist attractions of the French Riviera: a day in the back-country, an escapade on the Italian Riviera to see its markets, to St. Tropez and its stars, a mini- cruise to Corsica… a different way to see the Riviera, by night! Monte Carlo in its romantic and glamour version, Mougins or Cannes for art-movies and gastronomy… Various theme tours are proposed and specific ones can also be organised. (see table p.71)

Reservation of tours and excursions up to 7 days in Nice Convention & Visitors Bureau offices. & +33 (0) 892707407 (€0,34/min) www.nicetourisme.com Nice, a natural brilliance F r o m N i c e 71 Suggested tourist itineraries

COMPANY CONTACT

Azur Connection & +33 (0)4 92154848 - +33 (0)6 37299947 www.azurconnection.com Dream Tours & +33 (0)4 93844679 - +33 (0)6 11359292 www.dream-tours.com Exclusive Riviera Tours & +33 (0)6 71703586 [email protected] Gateway Excursions & +33 (0)4 93279389 - +33 (0)6 99402030 www.gatewaytours.fr Guidtour & +33 (0)4 93178336 - +33 (0)6 68535819 [email protected] Just in Tim’z & +33 (0)6 25155659 [email protected] Liven Up - Great Tours & +33 (0)4 93212512 - +33 (0)6 12774555 www.livenup.fr Med Tour & +33 (0)4 93829258 - +33 (0)6 73820410 www.med-tour.com Ming Tours Service & +33 (0)4 93555947 www.mingtourservice.com My Riviera / Nice Riviera Tourisme & +33 (0)6 21335746 www.myriviera-nice.fr Nice Tour & +33 (0)6 66771283 - +33 (0)6 48403032 [email protected] Pan Azur & +33 (0)4 92041807 - +33 (0)6 60285132 [email protected] Pulsar Tours & +33 (0)4 93272122 - +33 (0)6 11609300 www.pulsartours.fr Révélations Tours & +33 (0)4 93536985 - +33 (0)6 60029842 www.revelation-tours.com Riviera Kanko Service & +33 (0)4 93824350 - +33 (0)6 03693847 [email protected] Santa Azur & +33 (0)4 93853406 - +33 (0)6 16282887 www.santa-azur.com Startour Sightseeing & +33 (0)6 72400353 www.startour.fr Sunny days & +33 (0)4 93711075 - +33 (0)6 22202082 e www.sunnydays.fr Tour Azur & +33 (0)4 93448877 www.tourazur.com Trans Tour Azur & +33 (0)4 93141820 - +33 (0)6 07714902 www.ttazur.fr

Nice, a natural brilliance 73 ractical Pinformation n Emergency services 24/7 n Currency exchange n Consumer services n P e t s n Repairs – Car parks n Recommendations

n EMERGENCY SERVICES 24/7 n Police Secours: & 17 n Police Secours (from a mobile): & 112 n Fire Department: & 18 n Samu (emergency medical care) - Centre 15: & 15 n S.O.S. Médecins: & +33 (0) 810 85 01 01 n Doctors on call and Emergency: & +33 (0)4 93530303 & +33 (0)4 93524242 n CHU de Nice - Saint-Roch Hospital 5 RUE PIERRE DÉVOLUY: & +33 (0)4 92033333 n Poison Centre in Marseille: & +33 (0)4 91752525 n Laboratory on call: & +33 (0)4 93166868 n S.O.S. Dental care: & +33 (0)4 93011414 (weekends & holidays) n S.O.S. Dos (care for back problems): & +33 (0)6 07450213 n Riviera Medical Services (medical service for foreigners) & +33 (0)4 93261270 74 Practical information

EMERGENCY FOR CHILDREN n Cofima n 2 RUE DE FRANCE (H5) +33 (0)4 93886300 n Lenval hospital (F5) & 57 AV. DE LA CALIFORNIE & +33 (0)4 92030303 n Comptoir Financier Arin & Sauclières 9 AV. JEAN MÉDECIN (H4) & +33 (0)4 93878262 PHARMACIES 24/7 n n Travelex e n Pharmacie Masséna (H4) 13 AV. THIERS (H4) & +33 (0)4 93885999 7 RUE MASSÉNA & +33 (0)4 93877894 Sunday after 7:00 pm. n CONSULATES n Pharmacie Riviera (H4) For information: 66 AV. JEAN MÉDECIN & +33 (0)4 93625444 n General Secretariat, Alpes-Maritimes Consular Service Sunday after 7:00 pm. 107 QUAI DES ÉTATS-UNIS “LE BEAU RIVAGE” (H5) + 33 (0)4 93620316 - www.corpsconsulaire-am.com n Duty Pharmacies 24/7 & Find the nearest pharmacy. CONSUMER SERVICES & 3237 n n Departmental Office for Competition, Consumer Issues IN CASE OF LOSS OR THEFT & Fraud Prevention (D.D.C.C.R.F.) n 37 AV. THIERS (H4) n Central Police Station 24/7 (I4) +33 (0)4 97033300 - www.service-public.fr 1 AV. MARÉCHAL FOCH & +33 (0)4 92172222 & [email protected] Monday to Friday: 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Foreign visitor reception desk n Alpes-Maritimes Departmental Consumer Union Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm - interactive terminals in all languages. (U.D.C.A.M.) Passport & National Identity card. Thefts can be reported at the 30 RUE PASTORELLI (H4) police station. Please report the loss of French ID cards to the & +33 (0)4 93809192 - www.abcconso.org Town Hall (Mairie). Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 12:00 am & 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm. n Telephone number in case of loss (or theft) of the main PETS bank cards 0892705705 n & Animal Defence Society (S.D.A.) n Telephone number in case of theft of cheque books n (bank or post-office): & 0892 68 32 08 38 BIS RUE MARÉCHAL JOFFRE (H4) & +33 (0)4 93887147 n Animal assistance n LOST & FOUND 27 AV. G. CLEMENCEAU (H4) & +33 (0)4 93823459 n Police municipale n S.O.S. Vet & +33 (0)4 93834664 RUE RAOUL BOSIO (I5) & +33 (0)4 97134410 Open Monday to Thursday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Friday till 3:45 pm. n Vet clinic 24h/7 3 RUE MAURICE MIGNON (D7) & +33 (0)4 93712141 CURRENCY EXCHANGE n n Lost & found animals n American Express & 0800037016 toll free number. AÉROPORT NICE CÔTE D'AZUR - T1 (B8) & +33 (0)4 93215979 n Société Centrale Canine n Change Méditerranée (dogs with a tattoo or electronic identification) & +33 (0)1 49375454 17 AV. JEAN MÉDECIN (H4) & +33 (0)4 93879972

Map of Nice available in Convention & Visitors Bureau agencies (see p.86) Nice, a natural brilliance Practical information 75

n Carros shelter PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011 / 2012 ère ème n Z.I. 1 AVENUE, 13 RUE & +33 (0)4 93081179 2011 2012 New Year’s Day 1 January n CAR RENTAL Easter 24 April - 8 April Car rental agencies are located at the following strategic points: Easter Monday 25 April - 9 April n Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (B8) May Day 1 May

n Railway station (Gare SNCF) Avenue Thiers (H3) World War II Victory 8 May Ascension 2 June - 17 May City centre (H5) n Pentecost 12 June - 27 May Pentecost Monday 13 June - 28 May REPAIRS - 24/7 n National Holiday 14 July Auto Best Dépannage Transport +33 (0)4 93181000 n & Assumption Day 15 August n Dépannage Côte d’Azur Transports & +33 (0)4 93298787 All Saints’ Day 1 November Armistice Day 11 November Help Dépannage +33 (0)4 93898089 n & Christmas 25 December n Nice Dépannage & +33 (0) 810 06 24 24 (cost for a local call) n Racing Auto Dépannage & +33 (0)4 93721112 n RECOMMENDATIONS In this enchanting countryside, nonetheless please remain TOWING AWAY watchful in public places, on public transport, in your car… in n order to fully enjoy your stay. At the seaside and in the n Car Pound mountains, please check the weather forecast before setting 61 ROUTE DE GRENOBLE (B7) & +33 (0)4 93891808 out, always use the appropriate equipment for your activity and Cost: €114.60 on the first day + €4.60 per day (+ €35 fine). Expert’s report fees applicable from the 3rd day onwards: €61. leave a copy of your itinerary with a third person. To get your vehicle back, please provide: registration book, insurance, driving license. n CAR PARKS (see tables on p.76-77)

Discover the parking areas on roads reserved for disabled people (GIG-GIC) in the transport section at www.nice.fr n TRAMWAY CAR PARKS e Reserved for travellers on Lignes d’Azur transport. (see p.17) 76 C a r p a r k 1/2 h free w / 1 h free l

Réf Disabled Adress Capacity Phone Map spaces ACROPOLIS-JEAN BOUIN J3 1928 +33 (0493855885 25 AV. DU XV° CORPS w & MOZART H4 468 +33 (0)4 93886985 8 11 AV. AUBERT w & PROMENADE DU PAILLON I4 485 +33 (0)4 93800562 6 AV. F. FAURE - BD J. JAURÈS l & ESPACE GRIMALDI H4 405 +33 (0)4 93888363 8 RUE GRIMALDI & PALAIS MASSÉNA G5 362 +33 (0)4 92175269 8 29 PROM. DES ANGLAIS & GARE SNCF H4 38 +33 (0)4 93883369 1 AV. THIERS & MASSÉNA H5 335 +33 (0)4 93884087 7 AV. FÉLIX FAURE & PALAIS DE LA MÉDITERRANÉE H5 605 +33 (0)4 92175269 25 RUE DU CONGRÈS l & PROMENADE DES ARTS I4 360 +33 (0)4 92175269 9 AV. ST J. BAPTISTE - ST SÉBASTIEN l & PLAZA H5 80 +33 (0)4 93879723 5 12 AV. DE VERDUN & RUHL MÉRIDIEN H5 420 +33 (0)4 93821348 6 AV. GUSTAVE V - AV. DE SUÈDE & SAINT-LAMBERT H2 118 +33 (0)4 92175269 5 DEVANT ÉGLISE J. D'ARC & PORT DE NICE J5 250/450 +33 (0)8 20425555 aucune QUAI AMIRAL INFERNET-QUAI DES 2 EMMANUELS & RADISSON E6 146 & +33 (0)4 97177177 aucune 223 PROM.DES ANGLAIS NOTRE DAME H4 340 & +33 (0)4 93802959 8 28 AV. NOTRE DAME CORVESY I5 360 & +33 (0)4 92175269 6 RUE ALEXANDRE MARI l

B8 AÉROPORT NICE COTE D'AZUR l 4100 & +33 (0)8 20423333 36 GARE DU SUD H3 442 +33 (0)4 92175269 9 AV. MALAUSSÉNA & Nice, a natural brilliance C a r p a r k 77

Réf Adress Capacity Phone Disabled Map spaces VALOMBROSE J1 225 & +33 (0)4 92175269 22 AV. VALOMBROSE-HÔPITAL PASTEUR C.C. CARREFOUR NICE TNL J4 1400 & +33 (0)4 93568261 15 BD DELFINO-BD PIERRE SOLA NICE ÉTOILE H4 2200 +33 (0)4 92476980 15 RUE P. DÉROULÈDE/LAMARTINE/TUNNEL DUBOUCHAGE & SALEYA MARCHÉ AUX FLEURS I5 590 +33 (0)4 93851739 6 COURS SALEYA & PALAIS DE JUSTICE I5 332 +33 (0)4 93851739 8 PLACE DU PALAIS DE JUSTICE l & BARLA J4 300 +33 (0)4 93855885 5 RUE AUGUSTE GAL & MARSHALL I4 603 +33 (0)4 93139082 35 PLACE GÉNÉRAL MARSHALL l & PALMEIRA G4 357 +33 (0)4 93964016 8 47 RUE SAINT-PHILIPPE l & ARÉNAS C8 1396 +33 (0)4 92175269 93 455 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS & CADAM A6 429 +33 (0)4 97186019 6 CENTRE ADMINISTRATIF & LOUVRE H4 352 & +33 (0)4 93821620 6 20 BD VICTOR HUGO GARE THIERS H4 576 & +33 (0)4 93821306 19 12 AV. THIERS LES BOSQUETS F5 494 & +33 (0)4 93836691 29 8-12 AV. DE CARRAS l MAGNAN F5 300 & +33 (0)4 92175269 21 RUE CORDERIE/AV. DE LA CALIFORNIE LENVAL F5 295 & +33 (0)4 93371260 6 57 AV. DE LA CALIFORNIE ST-JEAN D'ANGELY J3 524 & +33 (0)4 93569161 11 24 AV. DES DIABLES BLEUS

Nice, a natural brilliance 79 nnual events An V e n u e s n Events in Nice

Events in the City of Nice: www.nice.fr Events on the French Riviera: www.cotedazur-en-fetes.com

Annual schedule “Nice vos Rendez-vous” available at tourist offices and on www.nicetourisme.com - “What’s on” Annual Events 80 V e n u e s

n VENUES n Cabaret du Casino Ruhl e 1 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) - & +33 (0)4 97031222 Every year, a rich and varied artistic programme: concerts, theme evenings, dinner-shows, fashion shows. Closed in July & August.

n Conservatoire National Pierre Cochereau e 127 AVENUE DE BRANCOLAR (I1) & + 33 (0)4 97135008 - www.cnr-nice.org This flagship of music and musical education, with its 730 seat auditorium (the largest in France and open air theatre of 300 seats. Numerous masters of the international scene studied here. The Nice CNR, the offical holder of Joseph Kosma copyrights, offers free concerts of exceptional quality open to the public on a regular basis.: “les lundis de Kosma”

n Centre Universitaire Méditerranée (CUM) e 65 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (G5) & +33 (0)4 97134610 /11 - www.cum-nice.org The Centre Universitaire Méditerranéen (C.U.M.), offers conferences, musical evenings and other cultural entertainment to the general public.

n Nice Acropolis - Auditorium Apollon e 1 ESPLANADE KENNEDY (J4) & +33 (0)4 93928300 - www.nice-acropolis.com This 2,500-seat auditorium with its exceptional acoustics fits in perfectly with the prestigious setting and perfect visibility. It hosts plays, concerts by French and international stars and, especially, the most prestigious operas. It also features the smaller, 750-seat Auditorium Athéna, for theatre and humorists.

n Opéra de Nice e 9 RUE SAINT-FRANÇOIS-DE-PAULE (I5) & +33 (0)4 92174000 / 40 - www.opera-nice.org A harmonious blend of premieres of contemporary works, rediscovery of gems of the operatic repertoire and the adaptation of more traditional fare offers eclectic and daring programming for an audience of connoisseurs and music lovers. Nice, a natural brilliance Annual Events 81 V e n u e s n Palais de la Méditerranée - Salon Vénitien e 15 PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)4 92146821 A Temple of the Arts and Gambling in the Interwar years, this landmark also has an auditorium for plays, operettas and performances by international artists and comedians. C>8: n Palais Nikaïa e 163 ROUTE DE GRENOBLE (A6) VcVijgVa^g^YZhXZcXZ & +33 (0)4 92293129 Programmation: & +33 (0) 892390800 - www.nikaia.fr The region’s largest multipurpose venue, this concert hall of glass has drawn the greatest international stars. Whether for indoor or outdoor concerts, Nikaia offers the possibility of staging the most spectacular theatrical creations (from 27,000 seated spectators to 52,000 standing guests). A special bus service is provided for concerts. (ligne 95 - www.lignesdazur.com) n Théâtre National de Nice e PROMENADE DES ARTS (I4) & +33 (0)4 93139090 Today, under the direction of Daniel Benoin, the TNN has become the top Drama Centre in France for the number of spectators. Built in 1989, the Théâtre National de Nice, an octagon of pale marble comprises a 900-seat Italian-style theatre (Salle Pierre Brasseur), a 300-seat amphitheatre (Salle Michel Simon) and a rehearsal room that make this venue ideal for all forms of theatre. The theatre season runs from September to June. n Théâtre de Verdure e ESPACE JACQUES COTTA - PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS (H5) & +33 (0)4 97133755 Facing Baie des Anges on Promenade des Anglais, the Théâtre de Verdure (Theatre in the Green) is located in the heart of a garden. This venue can accommodate up to 3,000 spectators. The many different configurations and the scenic and technical facilities make this theatre ideal for all performances and festivities. 6hZaZXi^dcd[\Vn"[g^ZcYan VYYgZhhZhdc d_Y[jekh_ic[$Yec 82

nicecarnaval.com Nice, a natural brilliance 83 n MAIN EVENTS IN NICE (Non exhaustive list) n JANUARY •New Year’s Concert / ACROPOLIS •Luna Park / ACROPOLIS-EXHIBITION HALL •Prom classic / Footrace, activities PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS n FEBRUARY •Carnival & Flower Parades PLACE MASSÉNA &PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS n MARCH •International Fair / ACROPOLIS-EXHIBITION HALL •International Paris Cycling Race PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS •International Indoor Trials / PALAIS NIKAÏA •Festin des Cougourdons / GARDENS OF CIMIEZ n APRIL •International Half-Marathon of Nice PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS •Regattas in Baie des Anges BAIE DES ANGES & BAY OF VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-MER n MAY •Traditional May Festival AMPHITHEATRE & GARDENS OF CIMIEZ •Springtime in the Museums / NICE MUSEUMS •Côte d’Azur Tennis Open / NICE LAWN TENNIS CLUB n JUNE •Mediterranean Music Festival / ALBERT 1ER GARDEN •Music Festival / ALBERT 1ER GARDEN •Festival du Livre (Book Fair)/ ALBERT 1ER GARDEN •Festival of the Sea: Fête de la St-Pierre et de la Mer / PORT OF NICE •Bionazur Exhibition / ALBERT 1ER GARDEN •Iron Man (triathlon) BAIE DES ANGES, HINTERLAND OF NICE Annual Events 84 Events in Nice

n JULY - AUGUST •Nice Jazz Festival / THÉÂTRE DE VERDURE •Prom’Party / PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS •National Holiday / PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS •Fête du Malonat / OLD NICE •Assumption Day Feast - 15 August / PORT OF NICE •Europétanque d’Azur / PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS

n SEPTEMBER •Heritage Days / IN THE CITY •Septembre de la Photo / THÉÂTRE DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE •Fête du Port / PORT OF NICE

n OCTOBER •Fête de la Sainte-Réparate / OLD NICE •International Tourist Fair / ACROPOLIS •Creative Arts Fair / ACROPOLIS

n NOVEMBER •Furniture & Decoration Fair / ACROPOLIS-EXHIBITION HALL •“C’est pas classique” Festival / ACROPOLIS •Fête de Catherine Ségurane / OLD NICE •The Alpes-Maritimes Marathon Nice/Cannes

n DECEMBER •Christmas Village / PLACE MASSÉNA & FORUM MASSÉNA •Luna Park / ACROPOLIS - EXHIBITION HALL •Rowing / CROSSING OF BAIE DES ANGES •“Lou Présépi”, crèche vivante (Christmas cribs) PLACE ROSSETTI, OLD NICE Nice, a natural brilliance 85 CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

B.P. 4079 - 06302 NICE CEDEX 4 & +33 (0) 892707407 (€0,34/min) / Fax: +33 (0)4 92144649 Email: [email protected] INFORMATION OFFICES

5 Promenade des Anglais (H5) Mid September/mid June: 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday Mid June/mid September: 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday 9am to 19pm on Sunday

Nice Côte d'Azur airport (B8) e October/March: 9am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday April/September: 9am to 8pm, Monday to Sunday

SNCF railway station - Avenue Thiers (H3) e Mid September/mid June: 8am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm on Sunday Mid June/mid September: 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday 9am to 7pm on Sunday

www.nicetourisme.com

NICE CODE 01 / F. FOLLET - NICE CODE 02 / A. LANNERETONNE - J. KELAGOPIAN - A. ISSOCK - H. LAGARDE - VILLE D’ANTIBES / D. VINCENDEAU - VILLE DE NICE - BOISET-PIENSA / NCA - STATIONS DU MERCANTOUR / R. PALOMBA - ALPHA / N. HEBERT - L. GUIGUI - CRT / G. VÉRAN - J. AUTARD - P. BEHAR – BALLOIDE - PHOTOTOPTIMIZ / WHITE PARTY BEAU RIVAGE - C. CORLAY - JÉRÉMIE B. - FOTOLIA - SCHUTTERSTOCK (Non exhaustive list).

Execution: Nexus Communication & +33 (0)4 93 92 92 20 - www.nexus-communication.com

This document is non contractual and the Nice Convention and Visitors Bureau can in no way be held responsible for its content. This applies particularly to the prices, listed for information only. This list is not exhaustive and we apologize if, despite all the scrutiny involved in the preparation of this brochure, it contains any inaccuracies or omissions. No reproduction even in part of any of the texts, photographs, drawings or graphics, creations printed in this document is permitted. All rights reserved. The publisher cannot be held responsible for the information provided by advertisers and subject to changes. Edition 2011/2012