The Most Beautiful Squares of Nice

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Place Masséna, the most famous square in Nice

In the very heart of Nice, right next to the Promenade des Anglais and the old town, lies a landmark of local heritage, Place Masséna. It delights tourists and locals alike with the beauty of its fountains, lamp posts and statues, but also its neoclassical architecture. Located in the Carré d'Or district of Nice, the square is surrounded by red facades typical of the city. Recognisable for its black-and-white paving, Place Masséna has not stopped transforming over time, most recently with the tramway works.

Around this charming square run the Promenade du Paillon, the Niçois green corridor, and the main tourist sites of the capital of the French Riviera.

Today, Place Masséna is a must-see square in Nice. Thanks to its central location and pedestrian status (cars are not allowed), it is the city's nerve centre. It hosts many local events such as the Carnaval de Nice, Nice Music Live, the Crossover festival, and other festive and cultural events on the French Riviera.

A bit of history. Place Masséna dates from the 19th century. It was formed from the merger of Place Charles-Albert and the original Place Masséna, and was built to link the old districts to the city. Its name pays tribute to André Masséna, a Niçois general and marshal of the Empire under Napoleon.

Don't miss. Place Masséna has 7 statues. This artwork, named "Conversation à Nice", is by the Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. Look up, these statues are placed about ten metres above the ground. Take time to admire the Sun Fountain, at the centre of which stands the statue of Apollo.

Place Garibaldi, the Italian heritage of Nice

Place Garibaldi is easily recognisable by its Baroque architecture, its green shutters, and the arcades that line the lower part of its facades. Located in the port district, on the edge of the Vieux-Nice, it is one of the oldest squares in the city and also the largest. Its harmonious rectangular architecture, surrounded by wide arcaded walkways, recalls the Italian heritage of Nice.

Pedestrianised a few years ago, Place Garibaldi is a place that lives well, as the many surrounding bars and restaurants attest. This lively square regularly hosts flea markets and political gatherings. Since a tramway line came through in 2007, the square has been renovated while keeping its character and Italian inspiration.

A bit of history. Place Garibaldi takes its name from Giuseppe Garibaldi, a hero of Italian unification born in Nice. At the centre of the square, the fountain is dedicated to him and bears a statue in his likeness. It was built in the 17th century and designed by the architect Antonio Spinelli, who drew inspiration from the squares of Turin, especially the Piazza San Carlo.

Don't miss. Take time to look at the facades of this square. Notice anything unusual? All four sides are decorated in trompe-l'œil. The windows and shutters are real, but the frames are painted in trompe-l'œil, to match the original decor.

Place Rossetti, charming and picturesque

If you wander through the Vieux-Nice district, you will sooner or later come across Place Rossetti. How do you recognise it? By the splendid 17th-century Baroque Sainte-Réparate Cathedral that stands majestically at its heart. But also by its houses painted red, ochre and yellow, typical of the French Riviera capital, and by its obelisk fountain.

This central pedestrian square is particularly lively, during the day with its ice cream shop and restaurants, and in the evening with the live concerts from the surrounding bars. Locals and holidaymakers enjoy sitting in the shade (the square is often shaded) and taking time to admire the beauty of this picturesque, lively spot.

A bit of history. The square takes its name from the Rossetti family. Charles Rossetti de Châteauneuf, a city dignitary, bequeathed his land facing the cathedral to the municipality, which decided to turn it into a square.

Don't miss. The Niçois are unanimous, do not pass through Place Rossetti without stopping at the famous Fenocchio ice cream shop. An institution since 1966. Nearly one hundred flavours await, from the most classic to the most original, for a truly delicious experience.

With its charming squares, its typical architecture and its pleasant lifestyle, Nice is, in the eyes of both locals and visitors, an undisputed jewel of the French Riviera. Looking to buy in this fine city of south-east France? To buy in Nice or to discover our Nice rentals offer, visit our estate agency in Nice website.