Best Things to Do in Nice, France Area This Summer 2009
above: best thing, hang-out at the pool!
Well, the best thing to do for sure is hang-out at the pool and enjoy the day. But we all have such busy lives these days, I guess we feel that we need to do something each day. I suppose to relax too much can’t be a good thing either??
Prices seem to be way too high in South of France this year. Watch out as it seems that fewer tourists mean more effort to get more money from you. Especially, watch the “farmer’s” markets, they farming you mainly. Good produce and local items at the Marche U.
Anyway, we had a great time down in St. Jeannet in mid-July and I wanted to share a few ideas on things to do–
For Kids:
- Marineland, see the whales and go to Aquasplash. You really need to go early.
- Beach at Eze is a nice locals beach, low-key and easy enough to park.
- Boat trip some options at Nice Harbour, Juan Les Pins, St. Laurent du Var port
- Poney rides up in the Col de Vence, there are two places as you wind up the road passed the Domain St. Martin. 2nd place has a longer trail and farm animals.
- Buy lots of craft stuff at Mr. Bricolage in Vence
- Hike the Baous–St. Jeannet or La Gaude from the village of St Jeannet. For the more adventurous you can also hire serious climbing guides from the pizza place in St. Jeannet
For Art Lovers
- Maeght Foundation is absolute must. Great Miro exhibit on now.
- Matisse Chapelle is absolute must.
- Chagall Museum in Nice is spectacular collection from this mighty creator.
- 2 Picasso museums one in Vallurius other in Antibe. Tiny Chapel with Paix and Guerre is incredible.
- Modern Art Museum in Nice, Leger (near Marineland)
- Avoid: Biot glass blowing tourist trap, main street in St. Paul art shops (they cater to cruise ships these days)
Others–
- Music Festivals at Juan Les Pin, Vence Nuit du Sud. Although it really seems that this year a lot of the normal music festivals are running shorter schedules.
- Visit the beach at St. Tropez
- Mountain Hiking at St Martin de Vesubie and the Alpha Wolves exhibit (kids)
- Good beaches: Nice, Juan Les Pin Avoid: St. Laurent du Var water is not clean
Eating–
- We dont’ eat out too much these days, but when we do, in Vence Les Templiers. Chef is a genius.
I probably missed a whole bunch of other stuff…but that list will keep you busy.
