From Quai Lunel, head out onto one of the many ferries making their way to various stops on Corsica and Ile Rousse. Travelers may enjoy the old port as part of a full-day tour along the French Riviera that explores Nice by foot before sailing off to glamorous town St. Tropez to suntan on the town’s psirine beaches, browse designer boutiques, and have an elegant meal. Or cruise instead to glitzy Monaco to visit the Prince’s Palace and the grand Casino of Monte Carlo.
Quai Lunel, which is the old port, is easy to reach from any part of the city. From central Nice, walk around the waterfront on the balcony-style walkway or head through the Old Town to Place Garibaldi and along Rue Cassini. Taxis are readily available if pressed for time.
The port is especially magical in the early mornings and during the magic hour in the evening. With a mild Mediterranean climate, Nice is a pleasant place to visit any time of the year. Come in the spring and the autumn to avoid the crowds and the heat of the summer. Hotel rooms are also cheaper during these shoulder seasons.
Visit Menton Make time to visit Menton, the delightful town just before the Italian border where the three Corniches end. Famous for growing juicy lemons (and a lemon festival in February), gorgeous formal gardens, and an impressive Jean Cocteau Museum, Menton is also stunningly beautiful, with mountains and tiers of pretty ochre mansions spilling into the pretty beach.
