Nice: Italian History & the Birth of the French Riviera Tour

2 hours Free cancellation Private tour

Nice: Italian History & the Birth of the French Riviera Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Discover the fascinating story of the italian roots of Nice!

For almost 500 years, Nice belonged to the House of Savoy and was closely connected to the Italian world. Its colorful architecture, churches, cuisine and local traditions still reveal this heritage today.

Explore the places connected to Garibaldi, Napoleon and the House of Savoy, and discover why Nice became one of the most strategically important cities on the Mediterranean. Learn how the French Revolution transformed the city, how Napoleon's Italian campaign began here, and why Nice eventually became French in 1860.

Then follow the transformation of Nice from a former frontier city into the glamorous capital of the French Riviera. Discover how the railway, British visitors, the Promenade des Anglais and the rise of luxury tourism changed the city forever.

Along the way, admire the Italian Baroque architecture of Old Nice, discover fascinating local stories and see some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, French
Operated by: Cognosimo

Ages: Children (0–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Live-tour guide

Itinerary

Stop 1

Passing by

Continue to Rue Bonaparte, the site of Napoleon's first headquarters, and learn about the French Revolution and how Nice became a military camp.
Garibaldi Square

Passing by

Next, head to Place Garibaldi and hear about the Duchy to Kingdom, Camillo Cavour, and Victor Emmanuel II. Learn about Garibaldi, the birth of Italy. his anger and his legacy
Place Massena

Passing by

Continue to Place Masséna and hear about Masséna, the most trusted marshal of Napoléon. Learn about his difficult childhood, how the French Revolution changed everything, and how Napoleon recognized his talent.
Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate

30 min

Next, head to Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, Musée du Palais Lascaris, and Eglise Saint-Jacques le Majeur and learn about the House of Savoy. Hear about the five centuries that made Nice Italian, the Dédition of Nice, and how Savoy shaped Nice.
Palais de la Prefecture

Passing by

Continue to Palais de la Préfecture, Cours Saleya, and 2 Rue Saint-François de Paule and learn about the Italian soul of Nice. Hear about the Niçois dialect, Italian flavors, and how much of Italy still survives in Nice today.
Quai des Etats Unis

Passing by

Next, head to Quai des Etats-Unis and Promenade des Anglais and learn about the creation of the Riviera. Hear about Napoleon III's vision, how the railway changed everything, and how the British discovered paradise.
Stop 7

Passing by

Finally, head to Palais Masséna and learn about Masséna's enrichment through plunder. Hear about his military salaries and promotions, imperial endowments, contributions and requisitions, and personal pillage.