Nice and the whole of France are experiencing a new heatwave. We present a selection of places to visit while staying cool.
The mercury is rising, and the nights as well as the days are becoming less and less pleasant to endure. The Alpes-Maritimes department was once again placed on yellow heatwave alert on Thursday, August 17, and remains so this Saturday, August 19.
This weekend, temperatures will struggle to drop below 30°C. With this oppressively hot weather, it can be challenging to find motivation to leave home. We present a few pleasant places to visit during these times of extreme heat.
1. Archaeological Crypt of Nice
Located beneath Boulevard Jean-Jaurès and Place Garibaldi, along the Paillon river, the archaeological crypt of Nice boasts 2,000m2 of underground space. It’s a way to discover the history of the city of Nice without being overwhelmed by the outside heat. Guided tours of 55 minutes are offered on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. Meet at Place Jacques Toja. Reservation is mandatory and possible online here.
2. Water Mirror in Nice on the Promenade du Paillon
Extremely popular with children, the water mirror of the Promenade du Paillon has become a true recreational spot. And during times of high heat, it’s a must-visit to cool down. Near Place Masséna, on the green corridor of Nice, the esplanade of nearly 3,000 m2 with its 128 water jets is perfect for getting your feet wet or more. The activation of the jets is a moment not to be missed!
3. Lazaret Cave
The Lazaret Cave invites you on a journey through time to the Prehistoric era. Located at the foot of Mount Boron, the cave shelters vestiges that bear witness to human activity more than 120,000 years ago. Hundreds of thousands of objects, human and animal bones have been found and unearthed during a century of archaeological excavations. Open and free access from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4. Waterfall of Castle Hill
Castle Hill is a landmark of Nice. With its history or its viewpoint, it has several attractions, including its waterfall. Visible from certain alleys of Old Nice, this waterfall is accessible after climbing the hill. Although it remains majestic, it is artificial. Created in the 19th century, the water circulates in a closed circuit. It acts as a giant mister for the pleasure of visitors.
5. The Churches of Nice
Thanks to their architecture of thick walls, churches tend to maintain relatively cool temperatures. There are numerous religious buildings in Nice. In Old Nice, among the colorful alleys, you will find some very beautiful ones: the Cathedral of Saint Reparate, Place Rossetti; the Church of Saint Rita, 1 Rue de la Poissonnerie; the church of Saint-Jacques le Majeur, Place du Jésus. In the city center, you can admire the unmissable basilica of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, or a little further away, the remarkable Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, a Russian Orthodox church with breathtaking architecture.
6. Take refuge in the city’s many museums
Air-conditioned museums are a good way to escape the stifling heat of the city. In Nice, you have a choice, and there is something for every taste. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC), the Matisse Museum, the Anatole Jakovsky International Museum of Naive Art or the Archaeological Museum of Nice all feature attractive exhibitions.
7. And why not take refuge in the cinema?
Escaping from the scorching sun to take refuge in one of the city’s dark cinema halls seems like a good idea. As is the case every week on Nice Premium, you can find our selection of movie releases.
