Cimiez is a wealthy residential area of Nice, north of the city centre and Old Town. It is peaceful and full of splendid 19th century buildings that were originally hotels and are now residential, like the famous ‘Régina Palace’, where Queen Victoria frequented –now transformed into classy apartments. Our Unique holiday lets, Cimiez always have something a little special about them with outside space, swimming pools or spectacular views over the city.
The must-see area of Cimiez that attracts locals and visitors alike combines a museum, a park, a monastery, a garden and roman ruins. It is no wonder so many venture up the hill to visit. Take a picnic to Matisse Park or purchase a sandwich and a drink at the small park café whilst watching animated locals playing boules in 200-year-old olive groves. Whilst there, take a few moments to explore the Roman ruins with the small gladiatorial arena. Directly behind Matisse Park is a Franciscan Church and Monastery with its beautifully tended garden and expansive views over west Nice. If you are lucky, you may still capture a glimpse of one of the monks who, to do this day, live and work there to take care of the beautiful church, shop and garden.
For centuries artists chose to live and work in the French Riviera for the magnificent light and this is celebrated in many regions in the French Riviera and Cimiez is no different. This is where the Matisse and Chagall Museums honouring both artists are situated. The Matisse Museum proudly displays the superb work of Henri Matisse. Although Matisse travelled throughout his painting career, Cimiez was where he lived, worked and died. The Chagall Museum is towards the bottom of the hill and closer to town and attracts art lovers wanting to revel in the poetic and dream-like work of the much-copied Marc Chagall. All of these places to visit in Cimiez are free apart from the Chagall Museum (€6-€8). The Matisse Museum is closed on Tuesdays and you may want to spend the €1 bus fare on the 15, 17 or 22 bus to get up the hill from the town centre. We believe you will enjoy this escapist moment of tranquil greenery, locals at play, art and history and it is certainly a refreshing break from beach life.
The area has a selection of local restaurants, a supermarket, boulangerie, pharmacy and post office. You can walk down the hill into town in about 15/20 minutes. Buses are frequent but do stop around 9pm. The peaceful neighbourhood pulls people who want to stay away from the hustle and bustle, but want to have quick and easy to the city centre.