Summer has arrived, once again bringing with it thousands of tourists from around the world, coming to enjoy the charms of the Coast. At night, this new population blends with local party-goers in the streets of the old town, among other places, to savor the joys of our local nightlife. Here’s a quick overview of the trendy (and less trendy) spots in Nice.
Saturday, July 2, 6 p.m. The tourist season is already well underway. Under a scorching sun, hundreds of vacationers leave the beaches for the city, in search of some coolness. While some prefer to enjoy an ice cream with family at one of the artisanal ice cream shops in Old Nice, others meet up in one of the many pubs or bars in the city to start the evening off gently. It’s time for aperitifs.
And there are plenty of establishments (which is to be expected, as it’s the fifth largest city in France). Nearly all the pubs in the old town offer “happy hours”. It’s the ideal way to discover the picturesque and festive atmosphere of the places, at a lower cost. Lovers of Latin music will meet at La Bodeguita, La Havane, or Barrio, to enjoy some mojitos and tapas, or perhaps, take salsa lessons. For those who prefer a lounge and relaxed atmosphere, head to Mail’s, les Trois Diables, or Cotton.
After these appetizers, it’s time to dine at one of the city’s about 600 restaurants. All the world’s specialties are at your fingertips: Japanese, Russian, Afghan, traditional, Mediterranean, and more. The alleys of Old Nice are full of quality establishments, primarily offering local cuisine. And very often, it’s essential to book in advance at these popular spots.
After dinner, it’s time for serious business. In Nice, rock fans are well catered for. In the old town, many pubs offer live music atmospheres throughout the week. Thor, Pompeï, King’s, and Blue Whales are the most famous among them for regularly hosting rock bands, even though there are many others (Master Home, the oldest pub in Old Nice, Mac Mahon’s, Tapas…). An Anglo-Saxon atmosphere is guaranteed in these places, true rallying points for lovers of British culture. Those who prefer more electro and house music will head towards Ghost, les Trois Diables, Ma Nolans (newcomer to the Nice nightlife scene), Cotton, or Liqwid or Suite, known to be the trendiest spots around. “Gay friendly” establishments, where the homosexual population is very present, are also numerous (Klub, Liqwid, Wash, Castel beach).
In summary, there is something for everyone and for all tastes. The only significant downside is that the vast majority of these places close their doors between 1:30 and 2:30 in the morning. Thus, past this time, it is not rare to see groups of people wandering in the alleys of Old Nice looking for an establishment still open to drink, dance, or simply eat. Surprising for one of the most touristy cities in the country… To “end the night” in Old Nice, only L’Escalier, Blues Whales, Oxford, or Subway welcome you until 4:30 in the morning.
Finally, those most disappointed with the nightlife in Nice will certainly be the “clubbers”. Of course, there are nightclubs in Nice (Grand Escurial, Saramanga or Guest for the younger crowd, Klub or Wash for predominantly homosexual clientele, Auberge de Cimiez or Mississippi for the older ones). But those accustomed to dance floors will surely prefer to head to Karrément in Monaco, Village or Milk in Juan les Pins, Coulisses or VIP Room in Cannes, or even, for the more brave, take a trip to Saint-Tropez, where nightclubs abound.
The choice is yours… The night is yours!
Nicolas Pelazza