Bucket list experience:
Photo Olivier Ansellem Archives Fondation © ADAGP Paris 2021
Nice can rightly claim France’s best hoard of modern art after Paris’s – and much of it was created here, in the early 20th century, when the Riviera’s light, colour and warmth attracted artists such as Renoir, Matisse and Chagall.
Wealthy collectors later founded museums, often in charming and historic buildings, and many artists donated works to their adopted towns. Just outside of Nice’s borders you’ll find museums dedicated to other world-renowned artists such as Picasso, Bonnard and Cocteau.
Being far less busy than Paris’s art museums, they’re a pleasure to wander – often set in pretty sculpture gardens, with lovely cafes or wine bars attached so you can sit and ruminate on your art fix.
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Destination Guide >Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience
France
Where to go and what to see in the Cote d’Azur to get the most from your trip – a 9-day itinerary including Cannes, Monaco, Nice & Saint-Tropez from destination expert and travel writer Dana Facaros.
France
Where to go and what to see in Nice to get the most from your trip – a 5-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Dana Facaros.
The tourist office website is a great resource, with a full listing of Nice’s 20 or so museums, and details on getting there by public transport, with up-to-date opening hours.
Nice, Cote d'Azur, France
Colourful interiors, nudes and landscapes by world-renowned French artist Pierre Bonnard (1867-1947), a leading figure in the transition from Impressionism to Modernism. He lived in Le Cannet between 1922 and 1947.
Best for ages: 18+ | £4
Nice, Cote d'Azur, France
A superb collection of art from France’s ‘Naive’ art movement, housed in a delightful pink mansion. Over 600 works from 27 countries.
Best for ages: 18+ | £5
Menton, Cote d'Azur, France
John Cocteau (1889-1963) was a famous French poet, playwright, novelist, designer, filmmaker and visual artist. He’s arguably best known for his novel Les Enfants Terribles (1929). Seek out his whimsical, graphic work in this quirky museum, with a waterfront facade that resembles a row of teeth.
Best for ages: 18+ | £5
Nice, Cote d'Azur, France
An architectural jewel, this museum between Nice and Antibes is filled with world-class modern and contemporary art, inside and out.
Best for ages: 18+ | £14
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cote d'Azur, France
This iconic hotel is the A-list choice along the Cote d’Azur, in a gorgeous seaside setting between Nice and Monaco.
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Nice, Cote d'Azur, France
Big, full-service hotel with a flashy image, set in a historic casino on Nice’s famous Promenade des Anglais seafront.
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Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Cote d'Azur, France
A charming, affordable oasis of a hotel with a pool, in walking distance of the medieval town of Saint-Paul-de Vence. Stay for the tranquility, and lovely views over the countryside.
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Nice, Cote d'Azur, France
This fun, colourful and affordable design hotel channels this area’s beach clubs, just off Nice’s Promenade des Anglais.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cote d'Azur, France
Money, glamour and bombshell looks: this beach-trimmed stretch of French coast offers decadent hotels, lounging in beach clubs, fine restaurants and world-class art.
Cote d'Azur, France
The buzzing, art-filled, foodie capital of the French Riviera, with a charming, Italian-influenced historic centre. The ideal base for a first-time visit to the Cote d’Azur, and home to the world-renowned Nice Carnival.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
The top cities and regions for world-class art museums and cutting-edge galleries. A feast for art lovers, and home to the masterpieces everyone should see.
