Nice Travel Guide

Introduction

Nice (pop. 350,000; urban 950,000), the fifth-largest city in France, is the economic capital of the Côte d'Azur. The city enjoys an exceptional climate with 300 days of sunshine annually and attracts over 5 million visitors each year, making it France's leading tourist destination after Paris. Located between the sea and mountains, Nice offers 10 kilometers of coastal area including 7.5 kilometers of beaches, 178 parks and gardens, and is served by France's second-largest international airport. The city features the region's largest old town, numerous museums housing works by world-renowned artists, and maintains strong connections to both Alpine and Mediterranean cultures across its 1,400 square kilometer metropolitan area that encompasses 49 municipalities.

The famous seafront promenade, known as the Promenade des Anglais, owes its name to the English upper classes who came for its mild Mediterranean climate in the late 18th century.

Nice was an Italian city for most of its history and only became part of France in 1860. Painters Marc Chagall and Henri Matisse both lived in Nice. Each have dedicated museums in the city.

Interesting Facts about Nice

• Nice was named after the Greek goddess Nike and was founded by ancient Greek mariners as a symbol of victory.
• The city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it one of the sunniest destinations in Europe.
• The famous Promenade des Anglais was originally funded by British aristocrats who wanted a pleasant walkway by the sea.
• Nice’s beaches are covered with smooth pebbles (called galets) rather than sand, a result of river stones washing down from the nearby Var and Paillon rivers.
• For centuries, Nice was part of Italy under the House of Savoy until it voted to join France in 1860.
• Local cuisine features unique Niçois dishes such as socca (chickpea pancake), pissaladière (onion and anchovy tart), and the iconic Salade Niçoise.
• Renowned artists like Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall lived in Nice, inspired by its light and colours; both have museums in the city.
• The picturesque Vieux Nice (Old Town) is famous for its narrow streets, vibrant markets like Cours Saleya, and charming Baroque architecture.
• The annual Carnaval de Nice is one of the oldest and largest carnivals in the world, celebrated since the Middle Ages.
• The city’s nickname, ‘Nissa la Bella’ (Nice the Beautiful), also serves as the anthem sung by locals and fans of the OGC Nice football club.
• Although there is a Castle Hill (Colline du Château), the actual medieval castle was destroyed in 1706 by Louis XIV, who ordered its remains to be used to pave city streets.
• Nice is home to a rare wine region in its north, producing unique grape varieties such as Braquet, Folle Noire, and Rolle.
• The Bay of Angels (Baie des Anges) is named after legends of angels guiding saints or from the local angel shark, whose fins resemble angel wings.
• You can travel to Monaco in under half an hour, making Nice a perfect base for visiting this glamorous neighbour.
• The people of Nice have their own regional language called Niçard (or Nissart), which is still celebrated and used in cultural traditions.

History

Ancient Origins and Early Settlement

Nice boasts a remarkable history stretching back over 400,000 years, with the Terra Amata archaeological site revealing some of the earliest evidence of human fire use and house construction dating to approximately 230,000 years ago. The city's formal foundation occurred around 350 BCE when Greek colonists from Phocaea in western Anatolia established a settlement on the Colline du Château, naming it Níkaia (Νίκαια) in honour of a victory over the neighbouring Ligurian tribes. This Greek name derived from Nike, the goddess of victory, and the settlement quickly developed into one of the busiest trading ports on the Ligurian coast. Meanwhile, the Romans established their own strategic military outpost called Cemenelum atop Cimiez hill in the 2nd century BCE, which became the capital of the Alpes Maritimes province with a population of around 10,000 people. The ruins of Roman baths and an amphitheatre at Cimiez remain as vivid reminders of this prosperous Roman presence.

Medieval Struggles and Savoyard Protection

Throughout the medieval period, Nice endured numerous invasions and changing allegiances whilst maintaining its municipal independence. The city suffered devastating attacks from Saracen forces who pillaged and burned it in 859 and 880 CE, controlling the surrounding territory for most of the 10th century. During the 13th and 14th centuries, Nice fell repeatedly into the hands of the Counts of Provence but consistently regained its autonomy. In 1388, seeking protection from ongoing conflicts, the commune placed itself under the guardianship of the Counts of Savoy, beginning a relationship that would last until 1860. This period saw significant development, including the extension of fortifications and improvement of roads leading to the city. A particularly dramatic episode occurred in 1543 when Nice withstood the Siege of Nice by the united Franco-Ottoman forces of Francis I and Barbarossa Hayreddin Pasha, though the inhabitants ultimately surrendered after fierce bombardment, with Barbarossa carrying off 2,500 captives. The legendary Catherine Segurane became a local heroine during this siege, symbolising Nice's fiercely independent spirit.

Integration with France and Modern Development

Nice's transition to French rule began during the Revolutionary period when French troops conquered the city in September 1792 and annexed it in November, making it part of the Alpes-Maritimes department. However, the city's final integration into France only occurred in 1860 through the Treaty of Turin, when Italy ceded Nice to France in exchange for French support against Austrian forces. The transformation into a fashionable resort destination began in the mid-18th century when English aristocrats, influenced by Scottish writer Tobias Smollett's accounts, discovered Nice as an ideal winter retreat due to its mild Mediterranean climate. This led to the construction of the famous Promenade des Anglais in 1822, financed by English sponsors and built on what was formerly a derelict stretch of sand along the seashore. The city experienced tremendous growth during the Belle Époque of the late 19th century, evolving from an exclusive destination for the wealthy into a more accessible resort following World War Two, whilst maintaining its reputation as a top-tier international vacation destination.

Main Attractions

Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a celebrated waterfront boulevard stretching for around seven kilometres along the Baie des Anges. Flanked by palm trees, gardens, historic hotels, and a series of public and private beaches, it serves as a lively thoroughfare for pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists. The promenade is an ideal spot to enjoy Mediterranean views, with access points to the sea and several seaside cafés and restaurants. It was constructed in the 19th century by English visitors and has become the focal point of coastal activity in Nice. The boulevard features distinctive blue chairs that have become iconic symbols of the city, available for hire throughout the day. Along its length, visitors will find several notable landmarks including the Hotel Negresco, the Opera House, and the Villa Masséna. The promenade is divided into distinct sections, each with its own character, from the quieter residential areas towards the airport to the bustling central sections near Place Masséna. During summer months, the promenade hosts various festivals and events, whilst in winter it remains a popular spot for leisurely strolls and exercise.

Colline du Château (Castle Hill)

Although the original castle was demolished in the 18th century, Castle Hill remains one of Nice's most popular parks. It offers panoramic views over the city's rooftops, the old port, and the Bay of Angels. The ascent to the top involves a climb or use of a lift, rewarding visitors with landscaped gardens, an artificial waterfall, a playground, and archaeological remains. Castle Hill is adjacent to the Old Town and provides shaded woodland paths and several lookout points for photography and relaxation. The site reaches a height of 92 metres above sea level and contains remnants of the medieval fortress that once protected the city. The park features Mediterranean vegetation including pine trees, olive groves, and various aromatic plants native to the region. Visitors can explore the old cemetery, which houses elaborate 19th-century tombs and offers historical insights into Nice's past. The artificial waterfall, constructed in the 18th century, provides a cooling respite during hot summer days and creates a picturesque setting for photographs. Multiple trails wind through the park, accommodating different fitness levels and interests, from short walks to longer hikes around the perimeter.

Vieux Nice (Old Town)

Vieux Nice, the city's historic quarter, is characterised by narrow, winding streets lined with ochre and saffron-coloured buildings. Throughout the day, these streets are filled with local markets, small shops, and traditional bakeries. The area contains notable squares such as Place Rossetti, where visitors can relax at outdoor cafés and observe the daily rhythm of residents. The Old Town is well-known for its vibrant food scene and lively atmosphere, particularly during the morning market and the evening hours. The architecture reflects the area's Italian heritage, dating back to when Nice was part of the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont. Many buildings feature traditional shutters, wrought-iron balconies, and distinctive Baroque churches including the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate. The streets are predominantly pedestrianised, creating a pleasant environment for exploration without traffic concerns. Local artisans operate workshops and galleries throughout the quarter, offering handmade crafts, artwork, and traditional Niçois specialities. The area comes alive in the evening with numerous restaurants serving regional cuisine, wine bars, and gelato shops that remain open late into the night, creating a convivial Mediterranean atmosphere.

Cours Saleya Market

Cours Saleya is the heart of Nice's market scene, best known for its flower market but also offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and local delicacies. Located near the Old Town, the market operates every morning except Mondays when it transforms into a flea market. The market is a hub for residents and visitors alike, making it an excellent location for sampling regional products and experiencing local life. The colourful stalls and awnings present a distinctly Provençal atmosphere. The flower market features seasonal blooms including mimosa, carnations, roses, and various Mediterranean plants, with many vendors offering arrangements and potted plants. Local producers sell regional specialities such as tapenade, herbes de Provence, lavender products, and Niçois olive oil. The produce section showcases seasonal fruits and vegetables, much of which is grown in the surrounding Alpes-Maritimes region. During the Monday antique market, visitors can browse vintage items, old postcards, jewellery, and curiosities from local collectors. The market square is surrounded by traditional buildings housing restaurants with outdoor terraces, creating an ideal spot for breakfast or lunch whilst observing the market activity. The entire area maintains its authentic character, having served as a marketplace for several centuries.

Place Masséna

Place Masséna serves as the principal public square in Nice, situated at the crossroads between the Old Town and the commercial district. It is distinguished by its patterned tilework, fountains, and modern art installations. The square hosts several year-round events and is bordered by shops, cafés, and gardens. Its proximity to Avenue Jean Médecin, the main shopping street, and the Promenade du Paillon urban park makes it a central meeting and transit point. The square's design features distinctive red and white checkerboard paving stones that create a striking visual pattern. Seven statues representing the continents, created by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, are illuminated at night and change colours throughout the evening. The architecture surrounding the square reflects 19th-century Italian influence, with buildings painted in warm red tones that complement the paving design. The Fontaine du Soleil serves as a central focal point, featuring sculptures and water displays that provide a cooling effect during warmer months. The square connects to several important streets and serves as a starting point for exploring different areas of the city. During festivals and celebrations, Place Masséna becomes a focal point for public gatherings, concerts, and cultural events, particularly during the famous Nice Carnival in February.

Parc Phoenix

Parc Phoenix is a large botanical garden and zoo situated in the Arenas district of Nice, near the airport. The site features a 25-metre high glass greenhouse with several climate zones, in addition to landscaped gardens and areas dedicated to regional flora such as olive trees and citrus fruits. The zoo provides opportunities to observe various bird species, mammals, and reptiles. Parc Phoenix is especially suitable for families with children, offering playgrounds and educational displays. The greenhouse, known as the Green Diamond, contains tropical and desert environments that house over 2,500 plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore different climate zones including rainforest sections with waterfalls, arid landscapes with cacti, and temperate areas with exotic flowers. The outdoor gardens span seven hectares and feature thematic areas such as Mediterranean gardens, rose gardens, and a lake with waterfowl. The animal collection includes flamingos, pelicans, otters, and various species of tortoises, housed in environments that simulate their natural habitats. Educational programmes and workshops are regularly organised for children and adults, focusing on environmental conservation and biodiversity. The park also features a musical garden with interactive installations and a butterfly house where visitors can observe tropical species in flight. Walking paths throughout the facility are wheelchair accessible, and the park provides information boards in multiple languages to enhance the educational experience.

The Cimiez District

The Cimiez District is a residential area situated on a hill to the north of Nice's city centre, known for its tranquil atmosphere and grand Belle Époque architecture. Originally the site of a Roman settlement named Cemenelum, the district contains significant archaeological ruins, including an amphitheatre, thermal baths, and a basilica. Cimiez became a favoured resort for European royalty, such as Queen Victoria, during the late 19th century. The area is also a cultural hub, home to the Franciscan Monastery, which features gardens with panoramic views and historical artworks, as well as the Musée Matisse, dedicated to the works of artist Henri Matisse who is buried in the monastery's cemetery. The streets are lined with impressive villas and former grand hotels, reflecting the district's history as an exclusive neighbourhood.

Nice Port Area (Port Lympia)

Port Lympia, the main port of Nice, is located east of the Old Town and Castle Hill. Its name originates from the Lympia spring, which once fed a marshy lake where the port was constructed from the mid-17th century. The harbour serves as both a commercial and leisure hub, accommodating a mix of luxury yachts, cruise ships, and traditional brightly coloured fishing boats known as 'pointus'. It is a primary departure point for ferries travelling to Corsica and Sardinia. The quays surrounding the basin are lined with restaurants, cafés, and antique shops. In the summer months, a small, free ferry service called 'Lou Passagin' shuttles pedestrians from one side of the port to the other. The port area combines industrial activity with a scenic waterfront, making it a popular place for strolling and observing maritime life.

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral

The St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral is a prominent architectural landmark in Nice, distinguished by its ornate, colourful onion domes characteristic of the Muscovite style. Consecrated in 1912, it was built to serve the city's large Russian community, with its construction funded by Tsar Nicholas II. The cathedral stands on the grounds of a villa where the Tsarevich Nicholas Alexandrovich died in 1865. It is considered the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe and holds the status of a French national monument. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes, intricate woodwork, and a valuable collection of icons, many of which were moved from Russia during the Russian Civil War. Following a lengthy legal case, ownership of the cathedral was transferred to the Russian Federation.

Nice Beaches

The coastline of Nice features a long stretch of beach running alongside the Promenade des Anglais. The city's beaches are predominantly composed of large, smooth pebbles, known locally as 'galets', rather than sand. The waterfront is divided into approximately twenty public sections and fifteen private beach clubs. Public beaches are freely accessible, while private clubs offer amenities such as sun loungers, parasols, changing facilities, and food and drink service for a daily fee. The bathing waters meet high-quality standards and have been awarded the Blue Flag label for cleanliness and safety. Designated zones are available for various water sports, ensuring that swimming areas remain secure. For those seeking sandy beaches, nearby coastal towns such as Villefranche-sur-Mer offer alternatives within a short distance from the city.

Top Museums

Premier Art Museums

Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC)

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art stands as Nice's most acclaimed modern art venue, housed within a striking state-of-the-art building designed by architect Yves Bayard. This impressive neo-classical structure showcases an exceptional collection spanning modern and contemporary works across two floors.

MAMAC specialises in works by influential avant-garde artists from the École de Nice, particularly featuring masterpieces by Yves Klein and Niki de Saint Phalle. The museum also houses classic pop art and new realism pieces from prominent American and European artists, including works by Andy Warhol. The venue regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions, and visitors shouldn't miss the rooftop terrace, which offers sweeping panoramic views across Nice.

Musée Matisse

Dedicated to one of France's most beloved painters, the Musée Matisse houses one of the world's largest collections of Henri Matisse's work. The master artist lived in Nice for nearly 40 years, and this stellar museum showcases his paintings, drawings, sculptures, and renowned paper cut-outs.

The museum occupies a stunning 17th-century red-ochre Genoese villa surrounded by olive trees on the Colline de Cimiez. Located directly across from the Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez, where Matisse is buried, the setting provides an intimate glimpse into the artist's connection to Nice. The collection spans Matisse's entire career, displaying works bathed in the Mediterranean light that so profoundly inspired him.

Musée National Marc Chagall

The Marc Chagall National Museum represents the largest collection in the world dedicated to the poetic universe of the Belarusian painter. Uniquely, this museum was one of the few created during the artist's lifetime, offering an authentic presentation of his vision.

The museum's centrepiece consists of 12 monumental paintings inspired by biblical stories from Genesis to Exodus. Beyond these masterworks, visitors can explore Chagall's diverse artistic output, including vibrant paintings, sculptures, mosaics, stained glass windows, and tapestries. The museum provides a peaceful, contemplative environment bathed in beautiful natural light, perfectly complementing the spiritual nature of Chagall's work.

Historical and Cultural Museums

Musée Masséna

This sumptuous Belle Époque villa serves as a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of Nice and the French Riviera. Built between 1898 and 1901, the building itself represents one of the architectural gems lining Nice's famous Promenade des Anglais, complete with idyllic seaside location and gorgeous gardens.

The museum chronicles Nice's transformation since becoming part of France in 1860. Visitors can explore the origins of the city and learn about the development of tourism on the Riviera, as well as the cultural significance of Nice's epic carnival, which has been celebrated since 1876. The collections include period paintings, historical documents, and artifacts that vividly illustrate the Belle Époque era.

Palais Lascaris

Hidden within Old Nice's narrow streets, the Palais Lascaris reveals itself as an absolute baroque treasure once visitors step inside its 17th-century walls. Built in the mid-17th century for a noble family, this palace represents the city's most emblematic baroque building.

The palace features a monumental staircase adorned with frescoes and tapestries, leading to sumptuous rooms filled with period furniture, sculptures, and paintings. Since 1970, the building has served as the municipal Museum of Musical Instruments, housing an impressive collection of over 500 instruments. The collection includes 65 classified instruments, featuring 18 harps that belonged to renowned harpist Gisèle Grandpierre-Desaux. An 18th-century pharmacy on the ground floor adds another fascinating historical element.

Specialised Museums

Musée des Beaux-Arts Jules-Chéret

Housed in a magnificent 19th-century palace, this fine arts museum presents an inspired collection spanning four centuries of art history. The museum showcases works by famous local artists such as Corot and Fragonard, alongside masterpieces by internationally renowned figures including Bonnard, Mossa, Dufy, and Rodin.

The star attraction focuses on French painter and poster illustrator Jules Chéret (1836–1932), whose innovative advertising posters revolutionised commercial art. The museum regularly organises excellent temporary exhibitions, maintaining its reputation as a dynamic cultural venue.

Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre

Located in Old Nice, this photography museum occupies a vast former electrical factory on the Cours Saleya. The venue showcases temporary monographic exhibitions featuring the biggest names in photography, while the adjoining gallery draws from the museum's permanent collection to present exhibitions by regional artists.

Galerie Lympia

Nice's coolest contemporary gallery space occupies a former galley slaves' prison and clock pavilion down by the port. Opened in 2017 following major renovation works, this unique venue regularly hosts free exhibitions by prominent local artists such as Patrick Moya, alongside international contemporary artists.

Natural Sciences and Archaeology

Musée d'Histoire Naturelle

Founded in 1846, this natural history museum serves as a veritable treasure trove for nature enthusiasts. Housing over a million specimens ranging from zoology to botany and geology, the museum offers particular insight into the biodiversity of the Nice region through its local collections.

Musée Archéologique de Nice-Cimiez

Situated on the site of the ancient Roman city of Cemenelum, this archaeological museum provides an immersion into Nice's ancient history. Visitors can explore archaeological remains, intricate Roman mosaics, and everyday objects from antiquity. The museum grounds offer lovely views of the adjacent Matisse villa and Roman baths, all framed by rows of cypress trees.

Musée International d'Art Naïf Anatole Jakovsky

Nestled within the Château Sainte-Hélène, this unique museum celebrates naïve art, an artistic movement characterised by spontaneity and apparent simplicity. The collection brings together works by artists from around the globe, offering visitors a refreshingly colourful and innocent perspective on artistic expression.

These museums collectively demonstrate Nice's remarkable cultural richness, from its deep historical roots as a Roman settlement to its evolution as a haven for modern artistic innovation. Each venue offers a distinct window into different aspects of art, culture, and history, making Nice a truly exceptional destination for museum enthusiasts.

Local Cuisine

Nice's cuisine reflects its unique heritage at the crossroads of French and Italian culinary traditions, offering a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavours. The local specialities, known as Cuisine Nissarde, include the iconic Salade Niçoise, a vibrant salad featuring fresh tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and tuna. The city is renowned for its street food, particularly socca, a crispy chickpea pancake, and pan bagnat, a hearty sandwich filled with Niçoise salad ingredients. Other must-try dishes include pissaladière, a savoury tart topped with caramelised onions and anchovies, and the delicate beignets de fleurs de courgettes (courgette flower fritters), which showcase the region's Italian influences. The cuisine emphasises fresh, local ingredients, particularly olive oil, seafood, and locally grown fruits and vegetables, resulting in dishes that are both healthy and flavoursome.

Shopping

The city's main commercial hub centres around Avenue Jean-Médecin, where you'll find major retailers and the Nicetoile shopping centre. The prestigious Golden Square, encompassing Rue Paradis, Avenue de Suède and Avenue de Verdun, houses luxury boutiques from world-renowned designers. For a more authentic experience, venture into the charming Old Nice (Vieux-Nice), home to over 600 traders and artisans, particularly around the vibrant Cours Saleya, where you can browse local products and typical gifts. The city also boasts impressive shopping centres, including the recently renovated CAP 3000 in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, which was voted the world's best shopping centre in 2022. For bargain hunters and food enthusiasts, the Marché de la Libération offers fresh local produce at reasonable prices, whilst the Village Ségurane antiques district provides a treasure trove of unique finds.

Nature in and around Nice

Nice offers a stunning array of natural attractions that showcase the beauty of the French Riviera. The city's most prominent green space is Castle Hill, rising 92 metres above sea level and providing dramatic panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, the red rooftops of Vieux-Nice, and Port Lympia. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Mont Boron Forest Park, which spans 57 hectares of Mediterranean wilderness with 11 kilometres of marked trails through Aleppo pines, carob trees, and wild olive trees. For those seeking more adventurous landscapes, the nearby Gorges du Verdon, often called the Grand Canyon of Europe, plunges to depths of over 700 metres and features stunning turquoise waters perfect for kayaking and swimming. The city itself is dotted with elegant green spaces, including the Promenade du Paillon with its reflecting pools and fountains, and the impressive Parc Phoenix, which houses one of Europe's largest greenhouses featuring seven different tropical climates.

Sea cruiser leaving the Old Port of Nice

Getting To & Around Nice

Getting There

By train Nice is well-connected by rail, with direct high-speed TGV trains leaving from Paris Gare de Lyon and arriving at Nice-Ville station, a journey that generally takes around five and a half hours. Travellers from other French cities such as Lyon and Marseille can also reach Nice easily using frequent and comfortable trains, while major international routes connect from places such as London (via Paris) and Milan.

By coach or bus Coach services like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus provide convenient travel from French and European cities directly to Nice, with regular long-distance options from Paris, Lille, Brussels and more. Coaches typically arrive at Nice's Vauban Coach Station or Central Station, and modern vehicles feature amenities like Wi-Fi and spacious seating for a relaxing journey.

By car The drive to Nice offers flexibility and the possibility to enjoy scenic stops along the way. From Paris, the journey is about 995km and usually takes around ten hours, with popular routes including the A8 motorway ("La Provençale"). Those coming from elsewhere in France or abroad can access Nice by well-maintained highways, and travellers from the UK often cross by ferry to Calais before driving south. Just note that parking in Nice city centre may be limited, so plan ahead if you opt for this mode.

Getting Around

Nice boasts an extensive and efficient public transport network operated by Lignes d'Azur, comprising three modern tram lines and over 140 bus routes serving 51 towns in the metropolitan area. The tram system includes Line 1, which connects the north and east via the city centre along Avenue Jean Médecin and Place Masséna; Line 2, which provides a convenient west-east link from the airport to Nice's port; and Line 3, which connects Saint-Isidore to the city centre via the Allianz Riviera stadium. The bus network is particularly comprehensive, with services running from early morning until late evening, and special night buses operating after 10 pm. Tickets cost ?1.70 for a single journey, with better value options available through multi-trip tickets and daily passes. The system is further enhanced by nine Parcazur park-and-ride facilities, allowing visitors to park for free and access the city centre by tram.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit Nice is during the shoulder seasons, particularly in September or between April and June. September stands out as an especially appealing month, offering warm Mediterranean waters, diminishing crowds, and more reasonable accommodation prices whilst maintaining delightful sunny weather. Spring visits from April to June provide mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 23°C, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities, though do note that the latter half of May sees price increases due to the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix. Whilst summer (June to August) delivers guaranteed sunshine and warm temperatures around 28°C, it brings substantial crowds and peak prices. Those seeking a more economical holiday might consider the winter months from November to March, when temperatures remain mild at 5°C to 15°C, though rainfall is more frequent, particularly in November which averages 133mm of precipitation.