Nice Private Walking Tour: Old Town to Belle Epoque

3 hours Free cancellation Private tour

Nice Private Walking Tour: Old Town to Belle Epoque, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Immerse yourself in the whole story of Nice on this private tour that takes you from the ancient Old Town to the Belle Epoque splendor that made Nice a World Heritage Site. Between the fish market and the flower market of old Nice lie lively streets packed with baroque churches and mementos of medieval life. We'll discover how Nice blossomed from a walled village to a luxurious winter resort as we stroll the legendary Promenade des Anglais to Nice's most prestigious neighborhood, the Carré d'Or. I'll point out the landmark villas that few tourists know about as well as the three churches--Anglican, American and Russian--that recall the diverse communities that constructed Nice. Along the way, you'll hear stories of the saints and sinners, rascals and heroes that wove the tapestry of Nice life. Whether first-time or repeat visitor, this tour with a Nice resident will take you off-the-beaten path to discover the real Nice.

Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours New Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English
Operated by: Nice Uncovered Walks

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–10 years) · Youth (11–17 years) · Adults (18–64 years) · Seniors (65–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Professional and knowledgeable tour guide

Not included

Not included: Meals

Itinerary

Place Saint-Francois

10 min

We'll start our journey into the past in the oldest part of Nice. On this ancient square with remnants of a 13th-century monastery, fishmongers now hawk their daily catch to locals.
Old Town

45 min

Nice's Old Town is the vibrant heart of the city. The narrow, shady streets are endlessly fascinating with baroque churches, trendy bars, cozy squares and a jumble of pastel houses. Prepare to be enchanted as we wander the streets noticing the unique details and hidden gems that illuminate Nice's tangled history.
Marche aux Fleurs Cours Saleya

20 min

Stalls selling flowers, produce, olives, spices, cheese and soap make the Cours Saleya a feast for the senses. On Monday we'll peruse the antiques market. With its colorful awnings and historic buildings, this bustling square is the heart of old Nice.
Promenade des Anglais

Passing by

Nice's iconic seaside stroll is dotted with striking public art and architecture. Everyone from royalty to celebrities to rock stars filled the stately hotels lining the Promenade. If those walls could talk they would whisper a story of France's most famous murder mystery of the 20th century that took place here.
Musee Massena

10 min

The gardens of the neo-classical Villa Massena have been recognized as one of the more remarkable in France. Winding paths, groves, palm trees and tropical plants create a luxuriant haven of peace around the Villa that's now a historical museum.
Stop 6

30 min

The prestigious Carré d'Or neighborhood is at the heart of Unesco Nice, the part of the city designated a World Heritage Site. The tranquil tree-lined streets are lined with stunning buildings dating from the Belle Epoque and Art Deco periods. Prepare to be wowed by architectural splendor as I point out the elaborate facades of landmark buildings and explain their importance to the Nice story. We'll also discover the churches built by the English, American and Russian communities that settled here.
Place Massena

15 min

Here's where classical and modern Nice meet. The Italianate ochre arcades on the northern side are balanced by the Fontaine de Soleil on the southern side. The statue of Apollo in the center was once controversial but is now much beloved. In the middle lies the towering Plensa sculptures that are brilliantly illuminated at night.