Take a Trip To Nice In France

What makes Nice such a popular destination for luxury holidays? If you're looking for a luxurious holiday in France, Nice is one place you'll definitely want to visit. The glamorous city has long been popular among those wanting to relax in chic surroundings and you're bound to have a fantastic time here. Whether your idea of a dream break involves unwinding in boutique hotels, soaking up the sunshine or exploring wonderful attractions, Nice is sure to be the place for you.

Fantastic weather

Given its position in the south of France and being right next to the Mediterranean Sea, it should be little surprise that Nice has great weather for much of the year, where the summers are hot and the winters pretty mild. As such, you are almost guaranteed to experience pleasant conditions and it's a good idea to make the most of this by heading to the beach. Visit the pristine Baie des Anges - which translates as Bay of Angels - and you're sure to agree the sandy stretch is fully deserving of its beautiful name.

World-class culture

While many people who come to Nice spend at least a proportion of their break sunning themselves on the beach, it's certainly not the only thing that draws holidaymakers in their droves.

In fact, lots of tourists are attracted by the vast array of culture on display, in particular at its museums and galleries. There are over 20 to explore, so using car hire in Nice will offer an effective way of getting from place to place. One institution that is certainly worth visiting is the Matisse Museum, which is dedicated to the work of the French artist who lived in the city for more than 30 years before his death in 1954. With a range of Matisse's paintings, drawings and sculptures on display, you can easily gain an insight into the influences behind his work. Alternatively, you can visit the Musee Chagall - which concentrates on the creative output of Russian painter and stained glass artist Marc Chagall, who also spent a significant period of time working and living in Nice. Among the items on show are lithographs, Biblical prints and gouache paintings.

Top-quality hotels

If you want a truly chic holiday, you'll need to stay in a luxurious hotel, something which Nice has in abundance. One place that will certainly have everything required for a relaxing break is the Hotel Negresco which sits on the Promenade des Anglais. You have a choice of 96 rooms and 21 suites at the five-star property, each of which has been individually decorated and features modern amenities such as LCD TVs and Wi-Fi. You can enjoy fine food and drink at the hotel's several restaurants, including the English-style Relais bar - which has cosy velvet chairs and wood-panelled decor - and the Michelin-starred Le Chantecler, before enjoying a massage and manicure at the health and beauty centre. Overlooking the Bay of Angels, the Palais de la Mediterranee is another five-star hotel that is frequented by luxury holidaymakers. While it is built in the Art Deco style, it has all the modern facilities you could possibly need for a relaxing break, including a heated pool, Turkish baths and seaside coastal restaurant, there's even a casino!

Great shopping

Many people are keen to splash the cash on some new purchases while on a luxury break and you can certainly do this while in Nice. The old town district of the city is home to the biggest open-air arcade in the entire French Riviera and with more than 600 shops to visit, you'll certainly find what you're looking for, whether it's souvenirs or handmade clothing. Make sure you also visit the Cours Saleya Flower Market to pick up exotic plants, bouquets and fresh fruit. Although it is open six days a week, you'll need to get here early - ideally for around 7am - to beat the crowds!