We recently whisked ourselves away to the stunning city of Nice to celebrate my partner’s birthday, and let me tell you—it was exactly what we needed. Though it was just a short break, flying out first thing on Friday, March 21st and returning Sunday evening, the trip somehow felt delightfully longer, filled with sunshine, charm, and just the right mix of relaxation and adventure.
From the moment we arrived, Nice had us enchanted. It’s one of those places that feels effortlessly gorgeous: terracotta rooftops, pastel buildings, sea views in every direction, and food that deserves its own love letter.
We stayed at Villa Bougainville, a sweet little boutique hotel that turned out to be the perfect home base. Cosy, stylish, and within easy reach of everything—we couldn’t have asked for more (check out the photo gallery for a peek inside!).
Friday: Windy Walks and City Sights
Our first day was all about getting our bearings. We started with a wander down the Promenade des Anglais, letting the sea breeze wake us up (and what a breeze—it was very windy!). So we made the excellent decision to hop on the hop-on hop-off bus, which gave us a relaxed way to take in the full circuit of Nice and decide what we might want to explore further.
Later, we settled into a local café for a drink and some serious people-watching—one of our favourite pastimes. Just sitting there, sipping something warm, watching the world go by… bliss. We headed back to the hotel for a little rest and then enjoyed a quiet dinner before calling it an early night. We had big plans for Saturday.
Saturday: Exploring the French Riviera
Saturday was a highlight! We’d booked a full-day guided driving tour of the Côte d’Azur, and it did not disappoint. From the hilltop medieval charm of Èze, to the glitz and glamour of Monaco and Monte Carlo, and finally the coastal beauty of Antibes—we loved every stop. Each destination had its own personality, and we’ve already made a mental note to return and explore them in more depth one day.
Sunday: Sun, Sea and Sweet Goodbyes
After breakfast on Sunday, we made a beeline for the beach—the sun was shining, the sky was clear, and the air felt like spring had arrived just for us. We sipped coffee literally by the sea (again, see gallery—because words don’t do it justice). It was one of those peaceful, picture-perfect moments that make you feel lucky just to be alive.
With some time still to spare, we got lost in the charming alleyways of Nice’s old town before hopping aboard the Petit Train Touristique for one last scenic look around the city. A lovely way to say goodbye before heading to the airport.
The Verdict? We’ll Be Back.
Nice gave us everything we needed: sunshine, food that dreams are made of (I’m still thinking about those mussels—to die for!—and the croissants, oh the croissants…), and memories we’ll treasure. We walked miles, soaked up culture, and somehow packed so much into three days that it honestly felt like we were there for a week.
If you’re looking for the perfect long weekend getaway, this is it. And if you ever get the chance to go—take it. The Côte d’Azur has a way of stealing your heart, one sea breeze at a time.
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