What to do in Nice with Kids

Nice surprised me with how family friendly the city is! Not only is it stunningly beautiful, with its turquoise waters and colorful buildings, but it’s also incredibly walkable and filled with fun for little ones. It seems everywhere we turned there was a playground and the boys kept yelling “best trip ever,” which made my heart so happy. If you’re headed to Nice with kids, here are all of our suggestions- from things to do and playgrounds worth visiting!

Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Nice with kids:

1.) Ride the Petit Train de Nice
A fun little tourist train that takes you through Old Town, along the Promenade, and up Castle Hill without all the walking. You also get to learn fun facts about the city on the go!

2.) Explore Old Town (Vieux Nice)
The colorful, narrow streets are filled with shops, markets, and gelato stops. Kids will love spotting bright shutters, market stalls, and street musicians.

3.) Beach Time
While Nice’s beaches are pebbly, the water is crystal clear. Bring water shoes so little feet (are your own) can walk comfortably. You will find many areas to splash and swim.

4.) Visit the Port
Kids will enjoy looking at fishing boats, yachts, and colorful buildings — plus there are plenty of spots to grab a crepe or ice cream.

5.) Cours Saleya Market
Let the kids pick out fresh fruit, flowers, or a local snack. It’s colorful, lively, and fun for all ages.

6.) Visit the Playgrounds
There are so many fun playgrounds located all around Nice! And it was so sweet watching our boys play with kids from around the world. There’s a beautiful simplicity in how children connect- they don’t ask questions about where others are from or what language they speak… they simply play and invite others to join. Below were a few of our favorite playgrounds:

• Promenade du Paillon Playground
  This may be our favorite playground ever! If you have kids, you MUST visit this playground. From the climbing structures to splash fountains- there is something for everyone. And the views of Old Town are gorgeous! It’s located in the heart of Nice, stretching from Place Masséna toward the Old Town.
  Why it’s great: This is the largest playground in Nice, with different play areas for different ages. For younger kids, there are climbing structures, slides, and swings. For older ones, there are rope towers and zip lines. My boys loved running between the shaded play zones, and the nearby splash fountains were perfect for cooling off.
  Bonus: Benches for parents, grassy areas for picnics, and clean public restrooms nearby.
• Albert I Garden Playground
  Location: Near the Promenade des Anglais, right by Place Masséna.
  Why it’s great: This smaller playground is set among palm trees and flowers, with climbing frames, slides, and spring riders. It’s a great quick stop if you’re walking from the Promenade toward Old Town.
  Bonus: Shady seating for parents and plenty of space to run around.
• Castle Hill Playground (Colline du Château)
  This playground is located at the top of Castle Hill, which you can access by climbing the stains or taking the elevator. We climbed it with our kids with no problem. If you have a stroller, you will likely want to take the elevator.
  Why it’s great: This playground has a magical view of the city and the Mediterranean. It’s not huge, but it’s a fun reward for the climb up (or elevator ride). The equipment is simple but great for burning energy before exploring the rest of the park.
  Bonus: After playtime, explore the park’s walking trails, waterfall, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Parc Castel des Deux Rois
  Bonus: Amazing views over the city and sea.
  Location: A bit farther east of the port in Nice, on a hillside.
  Why it’s great: This is more of a local park, with wide open spaces, a playground, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. It’s less touristy and gives you a glimpse into everyday life in Nice.
• Parc Phoenix
  Just a short tram or bus ride from the city center, this botanical garden and small zoo has exotic plants, birds, turtles, and playgrounds.

7.) Splash Fountains at Promenade du PaillonIf you want to cool off, but don’t want to get in the ocean you’ll love the rows of fountains that spray water in patterns. The kids can run through them (or you can too). But be sure to wear your swimsuit or pack a change of clothes (or quick-dry outfits).

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Tips for Visiting Nice with Kids

• Walk everywhere — Nice is extremely pedestrian-friendly, and there’s something new to see around every corner.
• Pack snacks — French bakeries make the best little walking treats.
• Use playgrounds as breaks — They’re perfect for resting while the kids burn off energy.
• Plan for early afternoons — Many shops close for lunch, so use this time for beach breaks or park visits.
• Remember Sundays — A lot of stores and markets close, so stock up on Saturday.

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Nice is truly a city where kids can play, parents can relax, and the whole family can explore without stress. Between the beautiful parks, exciting playgrounds, and stunning seaside views, you’ll find yourself falling in love with the Riviera at kid speed — which, in my opinion, is the best way to experience it.

*If you’re traveling with a stroller, this city is pretty stroller friendly. We brought a stroller on the trip- just in case of jet-lag for our 4 year old, but we never really used it. There were a few cities in the French Riviera that weren’t particularly stroller friendly, but you’ll be fine in Nice!