Nice Tourist Information

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Nice is generally a safe city these days, and it’s surprising to learn that the narrow streets of the old town were considered a no-go area by locals not so long ago. Today you are unlikely to experience any problems, although you should beware of pickpockets in crowded areas such as the flower market or at the station. Use this section to familiarize yourself with travel to and within Nice and generally around the Cote d’Azur. The information gives you the best knowledge of the city to make your short break as enjoyable as possible.

Read more on this destination in The AA Citypack Guide to Nice.

Useful information

Tourist Office - 5 Promenade des Anglais and outside the train station at Avenue Thiers.

Embassies and consulates - The British Consulate is based in Marseille at 24 Avenue de Prado.

Language - In the main French is spoken but there is a local dialect called Nissart to be aware of.

Passport and Visas - UK visitors only need a valid passport to stay in France and Visas are not required.

Insurance - You should buy full health and travel insurance before your trip and make a note of their 24-hour helpline number. EU citizens are entitled to reduced cost emergency care as long as they have the relevant documentation. For Britons this is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Customs - EU nationals do not have to declare goods imported for their own use, although you may be questioned by custom officials if you have a large amount of certain items. The limits for non-EU visitors are 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 1 litre of alcohol (over 22 percent alcohol) or 2 litres of wine; 50ml of perfume.

Visitors with Disabilities - Public transport in Nice is generally good for people with disabilities and taxis are legally required to take anyone with a disability and to assist them into and out of the taxi. For further information you should contact the Association des Paralyses de France.

Money Matters - France uses the Euro as its national currency. The Euro is broken up in to 100 cents (1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cent coins and 1 and 2 euro coins) and 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euro notes.

Lost Property - If you lose your passport you should report it to the local police station and then to the nearest embassy or consulate. Keep a separate note of any travellers cheque numbers as you will need them to make a claim if lost.

Medicines and Medical Treatment - Citizens from the EU are entitled to free or reduced-cost NHS (National Health Service) treatment, including mental treatment - bring the EHIC card from your home country. Full health and travel insurance is still advised. Pharmacies can deal with minor ailments. They are indicated by a green cross and there is a 24 hour pharmacy at 7 rue Massena in the pedestrian area.

Electricity - French voltage is 220 volts and sockets take the continental-type plug with two round pins. UK devices will need an adaptor.

Emergency Numbers