Vieux Nice — The Old Town

The Old Town of Nice (Vieux Nice) is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, ochre-colored baroque facades, clotheslines, hidden squares, and the scent of Socca, olive oil, and freshly baked Fougasse bread. Here, Nice's Italian past (the city belonged to Savoy/Sardinia until 1860) mixes with French flair.

Cours Saleya — The Flower and Spice Market

The heart of the old town is the Cours Saleya — a long, sunny square that becomes a market from Tuesday to Sunday. In the morning: mountains of flowers, Provençal spices, olives, candied fruits, lavender soap, and fresh vegetables. The scent is overwhelming. On Mondays, the square transforms into an antique market (Marché aux Puces). Cafés and restaurants line the edges — the terraces are expensive, but the view of the market hustle is worth every cent.

Baroque Churches

The old town is full of baroque churches — Nice's architectural heritage from the Savoy period:

• Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate: The main church at Place Rossetti with a turquoise dome. Inside: opulent baroque with gilded stucco and marble. Free entry.
• Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur (du Gesù): The Jesuit church with one of the most beautiful baroque facades in Nice.
• Chapelle de la Miséricorde: Often called the most beautiful baroque chapel in the world. Inside: a masterpiece of trompe-l'œil, marble, and gold.

Niçoise Street Food

Nice has its own cuisine, distinctly different from classic French — influenced by Italy, Provence, and the sea:

• Socca: Chickpea pancakes from the wood oven, crispy and rustic. Best at Chez Thérésa on Cours Saleya or Chez Pipo in Rue Bavastro.
• Pissaladière: Onion tart with anchovy paste and olives — the Niçoise answer to pizza.
• Pan Bagnat: Nice's sandwich classic: a round bread soaked in olive oil, filled with tuna, egg, olives, tomatoes, and peppers. Salade Niçoise in bread form.
• Fougasse: Flat yeast bread with olives, anchovies, or bacon — perfect for an aperitif.