A perfect morning at the port of Nice
The port neighbourhood has been our home since 2023. Less touristy than the Promenade des Anglais and livelier every year, it's one of our favourite corners of Nice. Here's how we'd spend an ideal morning there.
1. Start with a proper coffee
Naturally, we start at Full Bloom, on rue Emmanuel Philibert, a step from the port. A flat white or a batch brew, a croissant or an almond toast, and no rush. On weekdays it's the quiet moment when you chat with the neighbourhood regulars — and their dogs.
2. Walk around Port Lympia
Right next door, Port Lympia and its ochre and red façades. In the morning the light is magnificent: fishing boats, sailboats, ferries to Corsica and little cafés opening their terraces. A slow loop around the quays is enough to set the mood.
3. Climb Castle Hill
From the port, walk up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château). The climb wakes your legs up, but the reward is huge: a 360° view over the Baie des Anges, Old Nice and the port. The park is shaded, great for dogs too, and the waterfall is a must.
4. Head down into Old Nice
On the other side of the hill, dive into the lanes of Old Nice down to the Cours Saleya and its flower market. Colours, smells, the Niçois accent: this is the Nice we love showing to friends visiting.
5. Come back along the sea
To finish, head back to the port along the seafront past the Rauba Capeu war memorial, where the view over the bay surprises us every time. And if you feel like a second coffee… you know where to find us.
The port is Nice without the postcard set: people who live there, cross paths and say hello.
Our little tips
- Come early: the port is at its most beautiful before 10am, when the light is low.
- Wear good shoes for the hill.
- With a dog, bring water for the climb — we'll refill the bowl when you're back.
