20 Best Photo Spots in Nice, France + Photo Tips
Wondering where are the best photo spots in Nice? You are in the right place! I will help you discover the most beautiful places in Nice and make sure you get some wonderful postcards from your trip.
Nice is one of the most photogenic cities in France with its exquisite architecture, which ranges from elegant Belle Époque buildings to colorful Mediterranean-style houses, iconic Promenade des Anglais, historic Old Town, and wonderful sea views.
I am sure you will be charmed by lively markets, cozy cafes, quaint shops and so much more. This is why you want to bring your camera and take some epic Nice photos during your trip.
We spent 3 months in the South of France and decided to base ourselves between Nice and Marseille. This is why I have gathered an extended list of famous Nice Instagram spots together with some lesser-known gems of this city.
My guide to the best photo spots in Nice is going to ensure that you don’t miss a single photo opportunity! I will share additional photography tips, the best time to see these places without crowds, and help you pick the right lens. Let’s get started!
*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Are you still planning your trip to Nice?
If the answer is yes, I am here to help you out with some of the essentials, like tours, hotels, and other useful tips that will help you with the entire process.
🏆Are you looking for fun experiences in Nice? Don’t miss these top-rated tours in Nice:
- Experience the true craftsmanship of creating your custom-made perfume or get behind the 3-wheel car on the French Riviera
- Foodies will love this Culture, Wine & Food walking tour
- If you enjoy water activities, check out this Snorkeling tour or book a private solar boat cruise
🔎 Want to see beyond Nice? Book a half-day trip to Monaco & Eze or discover the most beautiful villages near Nice. Or discover the best day trips from Nice on your own.
⏰ Wondering how long to stay in Nice? You can cover the essentials of Nice in one day and you can easily find entertainment for a week. Nice is a great base if you want to explore the rest of the French Riviera.
🏠 When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of luxury hotels, yet not much for those seeking mid-range or affordable hotels. Here are some suggestions that can help you.
- Hotel Le Negresco: the best luxury hotel in Nice
- Villa Otero by Happyculture: great mid-range boutique hotel near the train station
- The Deck Hotel by Happyculture: amazing mid-range hotel in the heart of Nice
- Hôtel Esprit d’Azur: 3 star hotel with very affordable prices
- Holiday Nice Studio: affordable studio apartments in the heart of Old Town
🌊 Or check out these hotels in Nice with amazing sea views directly from your balcony.
✈️ From the airport of Nice, you can take the bus, a tram, or book a private transfer to reach your accommodation.
🚗 If you are planning a road trip around the French Riviera, you will love Rentalcars and all these beautiful places on the French Riviera that should be added to your itinerary.
20 most Instagrammable places in Nice and photography tips

- Colline du Château
- Tour de l’Horloge
- Cours Saleya
- Nice Cathedral
- The unique house of Nice Old Town
- Tour Saint-François
- Musée du Palais Lascaris
- Les Distilleries Idéales
- Maison d’Adam et Eve
- Rest of the Nice Old Town
- Le Negresco
- Villa Masséna Musée
- Promenade des Anglais
- St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral
- Port Lympia
- Place Masséna – Fontaine du Soleil
- Coco Beach
- Le Plongeoir
- La place Garibaldi
- Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC)
Colline du Château


The Colline du Château offers a panoramic view of Nice and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a hill rich with history and natural beauty, attracting visitors from around the world. Its peak provides a stunning backdrop for Nice photography and you don’t want to miss it.
Once the site of a medieval fortress, the hill is now home to a sprawling park and some of the best panoramic views. Let’s be honest, have you ever been to Nice if you haven’t been to Colline du Château?
Apart from the stunning vistas over Promenade des Anglais, Nice Old Town, and Port Lympia, you will love Cascade Dijon. This is an artificial waterfall running over a rocky cliff and another epic Nice photography spot. Don’t forget to visit the Bellanda Tower, the ancient Cathedral, and Le Park du Chateau.
When it comes to photography, you will want a good zoom lens so you can take some close-ups of the panoramic views. Early morning is the best time to visit Colline du Château if you want to avoid crowds.
While there is no charge to visit Colline du Château, it has opening time which is a bit unusual considering that it is a public park. From the 1st of October until the 31st of March, it is open from 8.30 am to 6 pm and from the 1st of April to the 30th of September it is open from 8.30 am to 8 pm.
How to visit Colline du Château?
It is located 90 meters above sea level and there is no public transport that brings you to the top. If you choose to walk, it will take you around 300 stairs to reach the peak.
As an alternative, you can take Ascenseur du Château and take s short walk up from there. It is free of charge, however, it is open from 10 am to 5 pm. Look up Ascenseur du Château to find the exact location on Google Maps.
When I first visited Nice some years ago, I opted for a Le Petit Train Touristique de Nice. It starts from Monument du Centenaire and takes 50 minutes to bring you around Nice attractions. The last stop is Colline du Château, where you have 10 minutes of free time. Not ideal, but works if you are on the clock.
The price is 12 euro and it leaves once every hour or once every 30 minutes depending on the season. It is open from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.
Tour de l’Horloge

The Tour de l’Horloge in Nice stands tall as a symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Situated in the heart of Old Town, this ancient clock tower is one of the best photo spots in Nice.
Constructed many centuries ago, the Tour de l’Horloge has witnessed the passage of time and the transformation of Nice from a humble settlement to a thriving tourism destination. It is part of Caserne Rusca, which is not accessible to the public.
But that is not an issue because the best view of the Tour de l’Horloge is located on the Rue de la Préfecture. Depending on your camera lens, you will need to step back and play with different angles.
However, you will need to come early for this spot. Especially if you are visiting during the peak season. Otherwise, the street will be packed with people since it is one of the main streets in the old town.
Cours Saleya


Just a short walk away, you will find Cours Saleya, which is a vibrant market square located in the heart of Nice. The street is filled with typical colorful Mediterranean houses and it offers a lot of photo options.
If you come after 9 am, you can shop at the famous Marché Aux Fleurs and take some photos on your way. Right in front of Place Pierre Gautier, you will find a little staircase that offers a fantastic view of Chapelle de la Miséricorde de Nice, which is another important attraction of Nice.
For the market, you will want to bring your zoom lens, while the rest of the square could require a wide-angle lens. Also, you don’t need to wake up super early for this location considering that the market opens up at 9 am and you will want to see that.
Later in the evening, the square fills up with restaurants and offers a different kind of atmosphere. It is a great place to enjoy an evening drink as the sun sets over the pastel houses surrounding Cours Saleya.
Feeling hungry? How about a local food tour in Nice?
- the best tour in Nice is the Half Day Afternoon Walking Food Tour with Dinner with a constant 5-star rating.
- if you are on a budget, NO DIET CLUB – Unique Local Food in Nice is one of the best affordable food tours in Nice.
- Viator Exclusive: Organic French Dinner in the Garden of Nice and French Breakfast Gastronomy offer unique food experiences in Nice where you get to visit locals’ home and savor your meal in an authentic environment.
Nice Cathedral


Nice Cathedral, officially known as the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice, is a majestic religious landmark of Old Town and one of the best photo spots in Nice. Its striking facade, adorned with intricate sculptures and ornate details, is a sight that you don’t want to miss.
Dedicated to Saint Reparata, an early Christian martyr, the cathedral dates back to the 17th century, although it underwent significant renovations and enhancements over the years.
Once you are around, make sure you visit the inside of the Cathedral as well. The interior is adorned with exquisite artwork, including vibrant frescoes, intricate stained glass windows, and beautiful sculptures, each telling a story of faith and devotion.
Right in front go the Cathedral, you will find Place Rossetti and La Fontaine historique d’Obélisque. From the fountain, you can take a fantastic photo and capture every detail of the facade of Nice Cathedral.
Place Rossetti is a lively square that fills up with restaurant tables and crowds during the day. An early wake-up call is an absolute must, however, you will have you be extra patient with delivery trucks that are all over the old town in the mornings.
The unique house of Nice Old Town


On the right side of the Nice Cathedral, you will find a unique narrow building and another Nice Instagram spot. This house is painted in the typical pastel tones with light blue window blinds – it doesn’t get more South of France than this.
What makes it so unique? Well, it is the narrow yet tall structure of the building. Trust me, you won’t find another house like that in Nice. Considering its tall size, you will need a good wide-angle lens to capture it all.
The building is located on the meeting point of Rue du Pont Vieux and Rue Mascoinat, also marked as Point de vue on Google Maps. Right next to the cafe called Le Kalice. I am sure you won’t miss it as you visit Nice Cathedral.
Tour Saint-François


Looking for unique views over Nice? Colline du Château is probably the number one option for most of the tourists, but I want you to discover some hidden photo spots in Nice as well. This is why you need to visit Tour Saint-François.
Be prepared for a long spiral staircase that leads you up to the peak of the tower. After 15 minutes of stairs, you will be welcomed with some of the best views of Nice. It is not as high as Colline du Château, so you get a very different perspective on the city. You will still need a good zoom lens to capture it all.
Keep in mind that it is open only on the weekends and occasionally on Fridays during the summer season. Opening times on the weekends are from 9.30 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm. On Fridays, you can visit from 7 pm to 10 pm.
The entrance fee is 6 EUR. You have to get your ticket at the office downstairs and show your ticket at the top. The person checking your ticket can also give you a little guided tour, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Musée du Palais Lascaris


Musée du Palais Lascaris is one of the prettiest places in Nice and quite a hidden gem for tourists despite its central location in the old town. Housed within a magnificent Baroque palace, this museum offers insights into the opulent lifestyle of the aristocracy during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Originally built as a private residence for the illustrious Lascaris-Vintimille family, the palace was transformed into a museum in the 1970s, allowing the public to explore its rich history and exquisite architectural details.
The museum’s carefully curated collection includes an impressive array of period furniture, decorative arts, and musical instruments. However, if you ask me, the palace itself is the most beautiful part of the museum and transfers you back in time.
One of the highlights of the museum is its magnificent staircase, adorned with intricate stucco work and ornate balustrades, leading to the upper floors where you will find opulent living quarters and reception rooms.
It is a relatively small museum, so you can easily visit the entire palace in one hour. The entrance fee is 5 EUR and it is open from 10 am to 6 pm. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Do you love museums and want to save money when visiting Nice?
Get a museum pass for 4 days and pay 15 EUR to access 10 must-visit museums in Nice for a very affordable rate. Even if you are planning to spend less time in Nice and want to visit just 3-4 museums, this is a great deal and you can save a couple of entrance fees when wandering around Nice.
It includes: Musée Matisse, Musée Massena, Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, Musée des Beaux-Arts Jules Chéret, Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre, Musée d’Archéologie de Nice Cimiez, Musée d’Art Naïf, Musée de Préhistoire de Terra Amata, Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle, Palais Lascaris.
The website is available only in French (the English option doesn’t work for me), but it is pretty easy to navigate, so click here to get your museum pass.
Les Distilleries Idéales


If you are wandering around the Old Town later in the afternoon and you feel like sitting down with a glass of wine, don’t miss Les Distilleries Idéales. This bar is a great spot for people-watching and spanning some iconic photos.
The bar has a lot of tables on the street and gets filled up with locals pretty quickly, however, the most beautiful place is located inside the building. It looks like a historical palace even though it was built in the last decade.
You will want to bring your camera and capture the interior of Les Distilleries Idéales together with some iconic details and artwork.
It opens at 9 am, so you can have breakfast at the Les Distilleries Idéales as well, however, I recommend coming later in the day and enjoying their drinks instead. Compared to some other bars in the area, prices are very affordable.
Maison d’Adam et Eve

Maison d’Adam et Eve is a hidden gem of Nice and it is located in the Old Town. It is a façade adorned with intricately carved figures and symbols, including depictions of Adam and Eve, as well as other biblical motifs. These ornate details reflect the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the Renaissance period.
Legend has it that Maison d’Adam et Eve was once home to Adam and Eve, the biblical figures from the Book of Genesis. While the origins of this myth are shrouded in mystery, the house’s distinctive architecture and intricate carvings have led to its association with this timeless tale.
You won’t be able to enter the building but it is worth a stop as you explore the Old Town. And it deserves a photo considering that many tourists have no idea about Maison d’Adam et Eve.
It is so hidden that you can easily miss it unless you pay attention and know what you are looking for. You can keep Théâtre du Cours as a reference point because Maison d’Adam et Eve is located right in front of it.
Rest of the Nice Old Town


As you already noticed, all of the above locations are located in the Nice Old Town and I wanted to point out all these places so you can easily find the best photo spots in Nice.
However, the rest of the Nice Old Town is filled with cute corners and picturesque buildings, so don’t be afraid to wander off the list and find some unique photo opportunities, because there are many.
Old Town is the main attraction of Nice and it will take you some time to explore it throughout. Steeped in history and charm, this ancient quarter is a beloved destination, offering a blend of architectural marvels, bustling markets, and inviting cafes.
Le Negresco

The list of the most Instagrammable places in Nice wouldn’t be complete without Le Negresco. This iconic tourist attraction of Nice is a luxury hotel welcoming guests since its opening in 1913, and it continues to exude elegance, glamour, and sophistication to this day.
The hotel’s grand façade, inspired by the Belle Époque era, is a sight to behold, with its ornate architecture, majestic domes, and intricate detailing. Even if you are not staying at Le Negresco, you will want to see this beautiful building at least from the outside.
Throughout its illustrious history, Le Negresco has played host to countless celebrities, dignitaries, and royalty, earning a reputation as one of the most prestigious hotels in the world.
Its guest rooms and suites are beautifully appointed, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea or the city of Nice, along with modern amenities and personalized service.
Le Negresco is also home to several world-class restaurants and bars, where guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine and exquisite cocktails in elegant surroundings. From fine dining at the Michelin-starred Le Chantecler to casual fare at La Rotonde, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion.
No matter if you are staying at Le Negresco, planning to stop by for a meal, or photograph the beauty of the exterior, you can’t miss this attraction in Nice.
When it comes to photography, you can take photos from Promenade des Anglais, but you will need some extra patience considering that this is one of the busiest streets in Nice and there are constantly cars passing by. If you are not the patient type, head to Jardins du Musée Masséna instead.
Villa Masséna Musée


Right next to Le Negresco, you will find Villa Masséna Musée, which is another popular Instagram spot in Nice. Once the luxurious residence of a prominent local family, the villa now serves as a museum which means that you can visit and see it with your own eyes.
As you approach Villa Masséna Musée, you will be welcomed with a beautiful garden and stunning exterior, but the best secrets are still hidden inside. The museum’s exhibits take you back to the time when Nic was just a small fishing village and showcases all the progress that the city made ever since.
The palace itself is a piece of art so trust me, you will have a lot of photo opportunities as soon as you enter the gardens of Villa Masséna Musée. A wide-angle lens is an absolute must for this photo location.
It is open from 11 am to 6 pm every day except Tuesdays when the museum is closed. The entrance fee is 10 EUR, however, remember that you can save money if you are planning to visit multiple museums and get the Museum Pass.
If you like Villa Masséna Musée, you should visit Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice as well. It was on my bucket list, but unfortunately, it was closed for construction. But it is open again and it is another great Instagram spot in Nice.
Promenade des Anglais


The Promenade des Anglais is a picturesque boulevard that stretches along the stunning coastline of Nice. Named after the English expatriates who first popularized the area in the 19th century, this iconic promenade is known for its breathtaking views, vibrant atmosphere, and rich history.
Lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, and charming cafes, the Promenade des Anglais has everything you need for a perfect Nice postcard. Other than that, you can enjoy walking on the wide pedestrian walkway and soaking up the azure Mediterranean Sea.
Don’t miss the iconic Blue Beach which is not so far from Le Negresco. If you are visiting during summer, I am sure you will enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the beach after a busy morning of snapping beautiful Nice photos.
This is truly one of the top places in Nice to take pictures at sunset, so don’t miss it when you are visiting in Nice.
St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral


St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral is a magnificent religious landmark and another must-visit place if you are looking for the best Nice photography spots. With its grand facade and towering spires, it is a sight that you don’t want to miss.
Other than the beautiful design and dreamy shape, this is the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe. You can take photos of the exterior, but it is not allowed to take photos inside the St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral. But you should definitely see it with your own eyes.
Once you have seen the inside of the Cathedral, you can take a stroll around the church and enjoy the different views from the park. Don’t miss Chapelle du tsarévitch Nicolas Alexandrovitch and Nicholas Alexandrovich Statue as well.
The Cathedral is located away from Old Town and off the beaten track of Nice, so there are not many crowds around, especially if you are visiting during shoulder season.
It is open on the weekdays from 10 am to 1.30 pm and from 2 pm to 5.30 pm and on the weekends from 10 am to 6 pm. Not accessible to tourists on Sundays from 9 am to midday. There is no entrance fee but feel free to leave a donation.
Port Lympia


Port Lympia is a charming harbor located in Nice. Situated along the Mediterranean coast, it serves as a place for maritime activities, leisurely strolls, and of course, one of the best places to take photos in Nice.
The port’s history dates back centuries, with its origins tracing to ancient times when it was a vital trading post. Today, Port Lympia continues to thrive as a vital link between the city and the sea.
One of the notable features of Port Lympia is its picturesque setting. Surrounded by colorful buildings and quaint cafes, the harbor exudes a relaxed ambiance that attracts visitors.
Whether you’re admiring the bobbing boats or savoring a freshly baked croissant, there’s something enchanting about Port Lympia and it is just a perfect summer destination in Europe!
In the port you will find a wide range of boats, starting from big yachts and ending with humble fishermen boats. The contrast is pretty impressive and a nice walk around the Port Lympia will give you a lot of different angles together with endless photo opportunities.
Place Masséna

Place Masséna is the main square in Nice with the extravagant Fontaine du Soleil right in the middle. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it is a lively square that you have to add to your Nice itinerary when planning your trip.
Lined with shops, cafes, and vibrant street performers, Place Masséna buzzes with energy and excitement. It’s a place where people come to meet friends, enjoy a stroll, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this dynamic city.
Dominating the Fontaine du Soleil is a grand statue of Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, who stands proudly atop a pedestal. Surrounding him are other figures representing the four seasons, each intricately crafted with meticulous detail.
You will want to play with a perspective and zoom a little bit on the fountain to give it an even more impressive appeal. The black and white pavement between colorful houses is just a cherry on the cake.
Make sure you wake up early, otherwise, it will be very hard to take photos of Place Masséna.
La place Garibaldi

La place Garibaldi is another important square of Nice. Surrounded by beautiful buildings and bustling cafes, it’s a hub of activity day and night.
Named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Italian general and nationalist, it stands as a symbol of history and unity. But it’s not just about the past; La Place Garibaldi is very much alive in the present.
The architecture around the square is stunning, with elegant facades that speak of a bygone era. Each building has its own tale to tell, adding to the charm and character of the place.
While I think it is magical to see Place Masséna early in the morning when the city is still sleeping, La Place Garibaldi should be visited during peak hours. It is a great place for street photography and people-watching.
And while you are there, don’t miss Full Bloom Café just a few streets away – it is one of the cutest cafes in Nice.
Are you a foodie visiting Nice? You will love these Nice food guides:
Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC)

The Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (MAMAC) in Nice, France, is a dynamic cultural institution that celebrates the creativity and innovation of contemporary artists. And it offers some amazing views of Nice from the last floor.
Housed in a striking modernist building, its sleek lines and bold architecture make MAMAC a standout landmark in Nice. Inside, the museum’s collection showcases a diverse range of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations and performance art.
But the best part is the roof terrace that offers a gaze over the skyline of Nice, so together with Colline du Château and Tour Saint-François, these places offer the best views in Nice.
2024 update! The museum is closed until 2028 for construction.
Coco Beach


Looking for the most beautiful beach in Nice? Promenade des Anglais is a great start, but you should also visit Coco Beach. Rocky cliffs surrounding the Mediterranean Sea create a perfect setting for a picture perfect.
Located further away from central Nice, this is not a popular place among tourists, however, it will be filled with locals, especially on a sunny day. Make sure you bring a swimsuit during the warm season so you can enjoy a dip once you have taken your photos.
Coco Beach is on the Sentier du Littoral, a stunning pathway with stone steps leading through towns and beaches along the sea. If you are into trekking, bring your comfortable shoes and plan from 3 to 4 hours of your itinerary to enjoy this stunning trek.
Are you looking for a dreamy hotel in Nice with sea views?
- Best hotel in Nice with a sea view for first-time visitors: Hôtel Le Royal Promenade des Anglais
- 5-star luxury hotel in Nice with a sea view: Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel
- Best romantic hotel in Nice with a sea view for couples: Hotel Suisse
- Top villa in Nice with a sea view for big groups: Villa de Charme
- Top-rated hotel in Nice with a sea view for families: Hôtel West End Nice
Le Plongeoir

Between Coco Beach and Port Lympia, you will find lesser-known Nice Instagram spots – Le Plongeoir. Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Le Plongeoir offers a truly unique setting and a memorable meal.
Its striking location and intimate atmosphere make it a popular spot for romantic dinners, special occasions, and unforgettable moments with loved ones. Prices are above average but the food is exquisite.
The restaurant itself is closed during the winter season, however, you can still pass by to appreciate the beautiful setting and take some wonderful Nice photos.
Camera gear that I used for my Nice photos
- Nikon D850 FX-Format Digital SLR
- Nikon Nikkor AF-S 14-24 mm f/2.8G ED
- Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G
- Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D
- Tamron SP 70 – 200 mm f/2.8 di VC G2
Further reading for best photo spots in Nice
Or read more about: Nice | Paris | Menton | Saint-Paul-de-Vence | Cannes | Eze | Villefranche-sur-Mer | France
In conclusion…

This is the end of the best photo spots in Nice and I’m sure that after reading this article you are impatient to get to Nice and create some unforgettable postcards. I believe that these photography tips will help you take epic photos and find the exact locations of the best photo spots in Nice.
I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.
Pin it for later and save the most Instagrammable places in Nice!


Your photos are all so beautiful. I cannot wait for out trip this summer. I won’t have room to bring loads of lenses with me. Think I can get away with my 50mm?
Thanks, Lila
Thank you so much, Lila! I think 50mm is a great lens for unique photos… might not be able to squeeze in buildings and churches in the old town, but detail shots will compensate for that. Enjoy your trip to Nice!