The
Greeks founded Nice, naming it Nike, or Victory. They could
not have been more accurate, as Nice has come to represent the
perfect combination of French urban chic (it’s the fifth
largest city in France) and laid-back European enjoyment.
It’s also one of the most visited locales in the world, with
seemingly every student in the world converging here during
the summer months. Monaco is just a short train ride away, as
are Cannes and Villefranche. Even though you will be attracted
to the opulence and grandeur of Monte Carlo, or the haute
culture of Cannes, don’t sell Nice short.
While Nice is the unofficial capital of the
French Riviera, it is more than just a beach town. Seven
museums, a beautiful opera house, and diverse world
architecture all come together to contribute an air of culture
to the city. Artists, writers, and philosophers have been
drawn here throughout the centuries, with the city counting
Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and Friedrich Nietzsche among
its visitors over the years.
As
much as Nice tries to gain a reputation as a well-rounded,
cultured city, its city fathers know that tourists help pay
the bills, and some gorgeous hotels and resorts extend along
Promenade des Anglais and Quai des Etats-Unis, the beautiful
beachside promenade in Nice. The beaches are busy virtually
year round, as Nice enjoys excellent weather throughout the
four seasons. There are over 300 days of sunshine per year
here, so you will have no problem working on your tan.