There are few places in the world where the atmosphere instantly slows you down – in the best way possible. Promenade des Anglais is one of them. Stretching along the curve of the Mediterranean in Nice, this iconic seafront isn’t just a walkway. It’s a lifestyle. A rhythm. A place where you can grab a pizza, sit on the pebbled beach with a friend, sip a proper coffee, and watch the waves roll in.
On my recent trip to Nice, I spent the better part of a day walking the promenade, popping into local spots, filming for YouTube, and living the moment. If you’re heading that way or just want a peek at life on the Côte d’Azur, here’s my full guide – from parking and food to where to sleep and sit with a fresh slice of margherita.
🚗 Getting There & Parking
I started my morning by taking the elevator down to one of the main underground car parks along the promenade. Oddly enough, the ticket machines weren’t working – which meant free parking for the morning (can’t complain about that!). Which I found was really cool as they provided free for all that’s the sort of council we need in the UK
There are plenty of car parks around – many underground and close to the beach. If you’re driving in, I’d recommend:
- Palais de la Méditerranée Parking
- Masséna Parking
- Corvesy Parking if you’re coming from Old Town
📝 Tip: Make sure to carry coins or a card – not all machines accept contactless, and you’ll thank yourself later.
🌊 First Impressions
As soon as I stepped onto the promenade, I was hit with this laid-back energy. Joggers. Rollerbladers. Couples strolling hand-in-hand. Tourists snapping selfies with the sea in the background. And right alongside, those classic blue chairs where locals sit and chat for hours.
The water’s the perfect shade of Mediterranean turquoise, and even in early spring, the sun felt warm. It’s no wonder this spot was once a winter retreat for the English upper class.
🏖️ What You Can Do on the Promenade
1. Beach Chill
While the beach is mostly pebbly, it’s still lovely to sit with a towel or grab a seat at one of the private beach clubs like:
- Blue Beach
- Plage Beau Rivage
- Opera Plage (open since 1889 – oldest beach club in Nice)
You can grab a drink or light lunch and sit right by the sea.
2. Walk, Cycle or Skate
I walked the promenade, but there are also dedicated cycling and skating lanes. You can hire a Vélo Bleu (Nice’s city bike) or bring your own.
3. Watch the Sunset
In the evening, the light over the sea is unreal. People start gathering with wine and snacks, and there’s often someone strumming a guitar nearby.
4. Cultural Stops
If you’re in the mood for a bit of culture, make time for:
- Villa Masséna Musée – former aristocratic mansion turned museum.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice – features 16th to 20th-century works.
- Negresco Hotel’s private collection – visible in public areas, if you pop in for a drink.
🍕 Food Along the Promenade (from pizza to patisserie)
This is where it gets good. The promenade is packed with great spots to eat, ranging from proper sit-down restaurants to casual beach bars.
My Food Highlights:
🍕 Pizza by the Beach
I had a simple margherita slice from a small café near the Masséna junction. Fresh base, light sauce, basil – it hit the spot. Other pizza types you’ll spot:
- Vegan Pizza – usually with roasted aubergine, courgette, and olives
- Vegetarian Pizza – goat’s cheese, caramelised onion, mushrooms
- Pizza Niçoise – anchovies, olives, and tomatoes – a local classic
Most beachside cafés offer takeaway, so you can sit on the beach wall or straight on the stones.
☕ Coffee & Pâtisserie
If you’re like me and can’t function without a good coffee, you’ll love:
- Maison Auer – a proper patisserie with fresh croissants, fruit tarts, and pain au chocolat
- Brasserie Le Magenta – solid espresso and outdoor seating
- Cafe Frei – offers unique blends and is vegetarian friendly
You’ll find fresh baguettes, macarons, and lemon tarts all over. Some bakeries even offer plant-based pastries.
🍸 Beach Bars & Seafront Dining
If you fancy staying a little longer and watching the world go by, try:
- La Rotonde – located at Hotel Negresco. A bit posh but worth the vibe.
- Le Galet – fresh seafood, classy vibes, right on the beach
- Di Piu – stylish Italian spot with sea views
- Cocoon Beach – a trendy beach club with cocktails and live DJs in summer
🏨 Where to Stay Near the Promenade
I had a walk past some of Nice’s best-known hotels. If you’re looking to stay along the promenade or nearby, here are a few worth considering:
🛎️ Hotel Le Negresco
- A landmark in itself, with historical interiors and 5-star service.
- Perfect for those who want a luxury stay.
🛎️ Le Méridien Nice
- Right on the promenade with rooftop pool views and a spa.
🛎️ Hyatt Regency Palais de la Méditerranée
- Classy, modern, and right in the middle of the action.
🛎️ West End Hotel
- More affordable and still right on the water.
🚶 Things to See Around the Area
Beyond the beach and cafés, there’s plenty more to explore within walking distance:
- Place Masséna – the main square with vibrant architecture and street performers.
- Old Town (Vieux Nice) – narrow streets full of markets, local shops, and gelato.
- Colline du Château (Castle Hill) – for panoramic views over the promenade and port.
- Nice Etoile Shopping Mall – if you’re craving a bit of high-street or boutique shopping.
🎥 Embed Your Videos
You can embed your video here:
COMING SOON
🎥 Night Pics
📝 Final Thoughts
I honestly couldn’t get enough of this place. Whether you’re doing a full road trip across the South of France or just stopping in Nice for a couple of days, Promenade des Anglais is where you’ll want to be.
It’s slow travel at its best – walk, eat, pause, breathe, repeat.
If you’re planning a trip or have questions, feel free to reach out in the comments on my blog or video. And keep an eye out for my next post, where I’ll be covering Monaco 🇲🇨 .