Nice Port

Few Nice sights can rival its Old Port bordered by colourful pastel buildings and filled with boats of all size. For mega-yachts, you'll have to head to the deeper waters of Antibes, but the Nice Port has more old-fashioned charm. Try to go in mid-afternoon when the sun's golden rays fill the port with colour.

The construction of the port was a project of Charles Emmanuel III, Duke of Savoy, who directed it from his capital at Turin. Work began in 1750 and the port opened to traffic in 1752. But, it soon became clear that the port was too small and had a tendency to silt up. Improvements were made but it wasn't until 1829 that King Charles-Felix took matters in hand and made the necessary enlargements.

Thanks to King Charles-Felix, we can admire the Place Ile-de-Beauté, a lovely square around the Notre Dame du Port Church. The church was erected to bless seafarers and the square is bordered by harmonious neo-classical houses.

Although there are no longer fishermen hauling their catch into the port, you can eat fish and seafood in one of the many restaurants bordering the port. The eastern bank is where to go for dining; there are restaurants of all price ranges.

Related Pages

Nice Sightseeing

Notre Dame du Port church

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