Nice, France: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Nice, France? Nice is one of the most beautiful places on the Riviera, with amazing weather, giant events, and plenty of great food. This article tells you when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Nice
- Important essentials for Nice
- Activities for Nice
- Nice in January: weather and what to pack
- Nice in February: weather and what to pack
- Nice in March: weather and what to pack
- Nice in April: weather and what to pack
- Nice in May: weather and what to pack
- Nice in June: weather and what to pack
- Nice in July: weather and what to pack
- Nice in August: weather and what to pack
- Nice in September: weather and what to pack
- Nice in October: weather and what to pack
- Nice in November: weather and what to pack
- Nice in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Nice, France
Based on the climate and weather in Nice, the best time to go is June. However, you can almost never go wrong in Nice -- there's always an amazing event or festival going on. In July, you can enjoy warm weather and attend the Bastille Day celebrations.
December brings Christmas markets, and February and March bring Carnival.
Of course, there's also the famous Cannes Film Festival, which comes to the area in May. If you're looking to avoid crowds, the shoulder season -- September and October -- are also an excellent option.
Important essentials for Nice, France
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Nice, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
IMPORTANT COVID-19 ESSENTIALS
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently get worn. An unreadable vaccine card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that. Make sure you have a printed copy of your vaccination card, since some attractions will not accept a photo on your phone.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection available.
-
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination/negative test
Make sure you have a printed copy, since some attractions will not accept a photo on your phone.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
Other health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Photography accessories
- cell phone photography gimbal
- camera drone for outdoor shots
- extra batteries
- extra memory cards
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Nice. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
-
For families with young children
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. This one is sufficent for most locations, but check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Activities for Nice, France
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Nice.
If you are planning to see Cimiez Convent, or if you go to the cathedral, Cathédrale Orthodoxe Russe St-Nicolas à Nice, you will need to be dressed appropriately. We recommend the following:
-
Trousers
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
There are several excellent museums that you should see, including the Matisse museum and the Musée National Message Biblique Marc Chagall. These musems (especially the latter) have excellent walking grounds, so you should expect to do a lot of walking. These are useful:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Here are some tours that you should consider in Nice:
Cannes and Monaco day tour
When going to Nice, you can't miss nearby Monaco and Cannes. We generally recommend either renting a car or taking public transportation, but if you don't want to do all of the planning, a good tour is an excellent choice. We recommend this one, which includes Eze, Monte Carlo, and Cannes.
Food walking tour of Nice
If you're going to Nice, you'll want to sample the local wine, and of course have a great Salad Nicoise. But skip the tourist traps and find the places locals go. You can ask locals or check out a good guidebook, but if you want to skip the hassle and have someone guide you, this is an excelelnt option.
French Riviera private yacht cruise
If you're on honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary, and you want to do something you'll never forget, this may be worth the splurge. Charter your own private yacht for the day and feel like one of the celebrities cruising along the coast. We suggest a sunset tour with a bottle of fine champagne.
Make your own perfume with an expert perfumer
Want a unique gift for yourself or someone else? Join a perfume making class and make your own perfume with an expert French perfumer.
Provence vineyard day trip
Here's one we wouldn't miss. Enjoy the vineyards of Provence on a private day tour from Nice. Sip wine at multiple vineyards, and learn wine tasting from experts. But prepared to be a bit tipsy at the end!
What to wear/what to pack for Nice, France by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Nice is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
What to do in Nice in January:
The cool weather in January makes beach going difficult, so you are best off spending January in the museums. The Musee des Beaux-Arts de Nice is a great art museum that features works from many different periods and styles. The Musee Matisse is another great art museum that is dedicated to the work of famed artist Henri Matisse. For those interested in history, the Musee National Message Biblique Marc Chagall is a great museum that tells the story of the Bible through the artwork of Marc Chagall.
Also, in nearby Monaco, the Monte Carlo road rally takes place this month, and there are several festival-like events in conjunction with it.
February
February in Nice can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while. The Nice Carnival occurs around this time, bringing dancing, food, music, and parades.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
What to do in Nice in February:
In late February (or early March), the city of Nice bustles with activity as the Carnival comes to town. There are bands, parades, and fireworks, as well as some traditions, such as the burning of the king.
In addition to Carnival, you can enjoy the top museums (such as the Musee Matisse and the Musee National Message Biblique Marc Chagall). You can also enjoy strolling the old town and visiting parks, although some will still be closed for the season.
March
March in Nice is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average. During this month, you may be able to catch the Nice Carnival, with lots of parades, food, and events. The Festin des Cougordons also occurs in March.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
What to do in Nice in March:
In March, you may be able to catch the tail end of Carnival, depending on the year. You can also attend the Race to the Sun bicycle race.
It's still a bit early for beachgoing, and many parks are still closed, but it's a great time to stroll the city and visit the museums.
April
If you go to Nice in April, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
What to do in Nice in April:
In April, the parks open up and spring gets into season. You can do the Cliff Walk along the coast or see thousands of species of plants in the Parc Phoenix.
It's a little early for sunbathing on the beach but you can take full advantage of the city's indoor and outdoor activities.
May
May here is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month. This is an excellent time to go to Nice if you're a movie buff or just enjoy seeing stars, as the Cannes Film Festival occurs this month. But beware: hotels (and everything else) can get very expensive this time of year.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
What to do in Nice in May:
By May, most of the city's attractions are open. If you're lucky, you can get tickets to attend the nearby Cannes film festival, or Monaco's Grand Prix.
You can walk the beaches (although it's still too cold to get in the water), and enjoy the beautiful parks in the area, including the Colline du Château, a former castle with an amazing view high above Nice.
June
June here is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes, but is still an excellent time to visit Nice. You avoid some of the crowds that come later in the summer, but still get to enjoy the great weather.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
What to do in Nice in June:
By June, beaches start to fill up in Nice, and summer tourists begin to fill the city. You have plenty of options for activities this month.
There are music festivals all over France in June and July, but you'll probably spend most of your time on the beach.
July
If you vacation in Nice during July, you are likely to find that it is pretty consistently hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes. Summer gets extremely crowded in Nice, and July brings additional crowds due to the Bastille Day celebrations.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
What to do in Nice in July:
July is peak tourist time for Nice, where the beaches are full and activities are in full swing. If you can't get a spot on the beach, consider attending one of the music festivals (such as the Jazz festival), or take in some of the museums.
August
If you are traveling to Nice in August, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C). August is a very busy time for Nice, so expect lots of crowds.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
What to do in Nice in August:
August is packed in Nice. For a break from sun bathing, stroll the old town, where you can still find a tourist-free corner. You can enjoy the outdoor markets, or take in some culture at one of Nice's smaller museums.
September
If you vacation in Nice during September, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time. This is a great time to go if you want to avoid the crowds and save a little money, as accommodations are cheaper than they are over the summer.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
What to do in Nice in September:
September is shoulder season in Nice, so crowds disappear and the beaches become empty. You can generally still enjoy some sunbathing on the beach.
For a change of pace, visit the botanical gardens at Parc Phoenix or walk the coast, beyond the Promenade des Anglais.
October
Traveling to Nice in October, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C). It is shoulder season in Nice, so you will experience fewer crowds and generally find lower prices.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
What to do in Nice in October:
By October, many of Nice's outdoor activities begin to shut down. You can still walk the Promenade des Anglais, but you will need a light jacket or windbreaker.
The Nice Opera season is in full swing, so it's a great time to see a show, and of course, you can always check out the museums.
November
In November, Nice is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and once in a while jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Nice, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Dresses
-
Standard footwear
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
What to do in Nice in November:
November is still a good time to do some outdoor activities, such as walking the city, but you should plan to spend time at the museums, such as Musée Masséna, or the beautiful religious buildings, such as Monastère de Cimiez.
December
If you vacation in Nice during December, you are likely to see that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. December brings Christmas markets, and Nice looks splendid decked out for the holidays.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
What to do in Nice in December:
December is cool and rainy, so you will spend much of your time indoors. There are several museums, both large and small, to visit, as well as the opera.
However, you can't miss the Christmas markets, which spring up in small towns and big cities all over the south of France. There are also great New Years' Eve events to enjoy.
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