Two Weeks in Nice: Learning French and Exploring the French Riviera

Bonjour, fellow travelers! The Trekking Pawns are headed to the stunning French Riviera for an exciting two-week adventure in Nice. We loved our visit to Paris so much, and on the recommendation of a local Parisian, we've decided to take an intensive French course in the south of France, in heart of this beautiful city, and while we're gearing up to immerse ourselves in the language, we can't wait to explore everything Nice and the surrounding areas have to offer during our free time. With half days free during the week and open weekends, we're ready to dive into the culture, cuisine, and charm of the Côte d'Azur. Here's a peek at what we have planned!

Choosing EF for our French language journey was an easy decision for us, and here's why. French isn't just a beautiful language; it's one of the most important languages in the world. From the United Nations to the International Olympic Committee and the Red Cross, French is a key language in international relations, business, and humanitarian work. It's spoken across continents, from Canada to Haiti and North Africa, making it truly global. We wanted to learn a language that would not only enrich our travels but also open doors to new cultures and connections around the world.

When it came to choosing where to study, EF offered us the perfect options: Paris or Nice. Both cities are incredible, but we decided to immerse ourselves in Nice. Picture this—learning French in a place where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Alpine foothills. Our days are filled with intensive French courses that build a solid foundation, but we also get to practice our French in real-world situations, whether it's chatting with locals at a café, exploring Nice's famous beaches, or browsing the vibrant markets.

What makes EF stand out is the blend of structured learning and cultural immersion. Every day, we're surrounded by native speakers, which accelerates our learning and helps us grasp the nuances of the language. Plus, meeting classmates from all over the world adds another layer of cultural exchange that makes this experience even richer.

We're not just learning French; we're living it. Whether we're practicing pronunciation with cosmopolitan Parisians or exploring the charm of Nice, EF is helping us build language skills that will last a lifetime. And who knows? This might just be the beginning of our journey in mastering a genuinely international language. You can get a free brochure to explore some possible trips for your self --> Would you like to learn a language abroad with EF? Or you can scan the QR code below

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Scan QR code above for a free brochure about studying abroad!

Weekday Afternoon Adventures in Nice

After our morning French classes, we'll have the afternoons to soak up the sun and explore Nice. Here's how we're planning to spend our free time:

1. Strolling the Promenade des Anglais 

We're starting with the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a 7-kilometer stretch along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Whether we're rollerblading, cycling, or simply walking, we'll be taking in the stunning views of the coastline, with its palm trees and azure waters. We can already picture ourselves grabbing a gelato and enjoying the sea breeze as we watch the world go by.

2. Exploring Old Town (Vieux Nice) 

Nice's Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively markets. We're excited to lose ourselves in this vibrant area, discovering hidden gems like the Cours Saleya market, where we'll browse fresh flowers, local produce, and artisanal goods. We'll also visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate and stop by a traditional café for a café au lait and a slice of socca, a local chickpea pancake. 

3. Visiting the Musée Matisse 

As art lovers, we can't wait to visit the Musée Matisse, dedicated to the works of Henri Matisse, who called Nice home for many years. The museum, located in the beautiful Cimiez neighborhood, offers a fascinating glimpse into the artist's life and work. Afterward, we'll stroll through the nearby Jardin des Arènes de Cimiez, a serene garden with ancient Roman ruins.

4. Climbing Castle Hill (Colline du Château) 

For breathtaking views of Nice and the Mediterranean, we'll head up to Castle Hill. The climb is worth it for the panoramic vistas of the city, the port, and the sea. We're also looking forward to exploring the lush park, waterfalls, and the ruins of an old castle at the top. This is the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of Nice from above.

5. Savoring Niçoise Cuisine 

Of course, we'll be indulging in the local cuisine at every opportunity. We're eager to try authentic dishes like Salade Niçoise, pissaladière (a caramelized onion tart), and daube (a Provençal beef stew). We've also got our eyes on some of the best seafood restaurants in town, where we can savor the catch of the day, paired with a glass of crisp local rosé. 

Weekend Day Trips from Nice

With the weekends free, we're planning some epic day trips to explore more of the French Riviera. Here's where we're headed:

1. Monaco 

Just a short train ride from Nice, Monaco is the epitome of luxury and glamour. We'll start our day at the Prince's Palace, where we can catch the changing of the guard. Next, we'll visit the Oceanographic Museum, which offers incredible exhibits and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Of course, no trip to Monaco would be complete without a stroll through the Monte Carlo Casino, where we'll try our luck and marvel at the opulent architecture.

2. Antibes 

Antibes is a charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches and historic old town. We'll visit the Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi, where Picasso himself lived and worked for a time. Afterward, we'll wander the picturesque streets of the Old Town and explore the bustling Provençal market. To cap off the day, we'll relax on one of Antibes' beautiful beaches or take a scenic walk along the Cap d'Antibes coastal path.

3. Èze 

For a taste of medieval charm, we'll head to the hilltop village of Èze, which offers some of the best views on the French Riviera. We're excited to visit the Jardin Exotique, a stunning garden filled with cacti and succulents, perched high above the sea. We'll also explore the narrow, winding streets of the village and perhaps even tour the Fragonard perfume factory to learn how traditional French perfumes are made.

4. Cannes 

We can't visit the French Riviera without a stop in glamorous Cannes. We'll walk along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, lined with luxury shops and grand hotels, and visit the Palais des Festivals, where the Cannes Film Festival takes place. We'll also explore the Old Town, Le Suquet, with its charming cobblestone streets and panoramic views of the city and the sea. If time allows, we might take a boat trip to the nearby Îles de Lérins, a peaceful island escape just off the coast.

5. Menton 

Known as the "Pearl of France," Menton is famous for its citrus groves and colorful architecture. We'll explore the Old Town, visit the Jean Cocteau Museum, and stroll through the beautiful gardens of Val Rahmeh. And, of course, we'll sample some of the local lemon products, from limoncello to lemon tarts, to fully appreciate the town's citrusy heritage. 

Getting Around and Practical Tips

Getting Around: Nice has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to explore both the city and the surrounding areas. We'll be taking advantage of the trams and buses to get around Nice itself, while the efficient train service will be our go-to for day trips along the coast. For some destinations, we might rent a car to enjoy the scenic coastal drives at our own pace.

What to Pack: For our two weeks in Nice, we're packing light but smart. Given the Mediterranean climate, we'll bring breathable, lightweight clothing for daytime exploration and a few dressier outfits for evenings out. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as well as swimwear for those beach days. A light jacket or sweater will come in handy for cooler evenings, and of course, we're packing our favorite sunglasses and a stylish hat to keep the sun at bay.

Foods to Try: Nice is a food lover's paradise, and we're ready to indulge in the local flavors. We're planning to try traditional dishes like pan bagnat (a Niçoise sandwich), ratatouille, and tarte aux blettes (a savory chard tart). And let's not forget the incredible patisseries – we'll be sampling as many pastries and desserts as we can!

Why Nice Should Be on Your Bucket List

Spending two weeks in Nice, with its blend of French elegance, Mediterranean charm, and stunning natural beauty, is a dream come true. Whether we're perfecting our French, exploring ancient villages, or savoring delicious cuisine, we know this trip will be filled with unforgettable experiences. Nice offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, and we can't wait to immerse ourselves in everything this incredible city and region have to offer.

If you're considering a trip to the French Riviera, we can't recommend Nice enough. With its sunny climate, rich history, and vibrant culture, it's a destination that truly has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to say "Bonjour" to an amazing adventure!

À bientôt! The Trekking Pawns 🌟