Promenade des Anglais: reviews and practical tips

+11
recos
2.8/5 4 reviews
promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France
promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France
Plage de Nice
Promenades des anglais

Visiting the Promenade des Anglais

In Nice, within the Alpes-Maritimes department, sits a magnificent avenue stretching along the waterfront of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels). It is flanked by some of the most prestigious hotels on the planet.

History

At the very start of the 20th century, the site was nothing more than a dirt path built by the English community, known as the chemin des Anglais. Then, in 1835, King Charles-Albert of Sardinia granted the municipality free use of the coastline.

A year later, the city council approved plans by architect Antoine Scoffier. These designs featured a coastal road with the same dimensions as the current promenade. However, it would take until 1844 for construction to actually begin.

It was in 1854 that the name Promenade des Anglais became official.

Expansions continued until 1903. Over those 50 years, the Promenade des Anglais was lengthened 4 times.

By the 1920s, rising automobile traffic became a major issue. The houses bordering the new thoroughfare gave way to hotels and casinos, which drew massive crowds and heavy vehicle volume. Between 1929 and 1953, the Promenade des Anglais was widened 3 times, eventually reaching 8 lanes of traffic in certain sections.

The Promenade des Anglais

Today, the Promenade des Anglais is a World Heritage Site. Above all, it remains a central hub of life in Nice. Alongside the Mediterranean, walkers, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers enjoy a singular setting.

The other side of this iconic location is defined by luxury. The promenade is lined with world-famous landmarks. Names like Le Negresco, Le Meridien Nice, or the Casino Nice Palais de la Mediterranee make this stretch a temple of refinement.

It is a superb walkway along the Mediterranean beaches, where casual cyclists rub shoulders with millionaires in luxury cars.

Reviews of Promenade des Anglais

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Summary of 4 reviews
2.8/5
Average rating
+11
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
2.5
As a couple
2.8
With friends
2.8

Avygeo ranking

#496
in the world
#380
in Europe
#202
in France
#6
in Nice

A bit of an overrated reputation

It is the city. And the beach is right nearby. It is an iconic view of Nice, and it is normal to want to see this promenade. But do not expect too much. You find crowds and a superficial vibe. However, the promenade is flat and easy to walk. It is also pretty nice by bike!

2
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Great bike paths, but very crowded

The Promenade des Anglais is a real gem right on the Mediterranean. The views of the turquoise water are just gorgeous, and the bike lanes are perfect for zooming along the coast. It is relatively quiet off-season, but do not expect to be alone! In high season, the crowds and the sometimes slightly snobby atmosphere ruin the magic a bit.

2
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A concrete walk by the sea

It is impossible to visit Nice without walking on this famous promenade. However, I did not find it pleasant at all. Even though the sea is right there, the whole path is paved with concrete and often crowded with pedestrians and cyclists. The beach, which is quite rocky, is not ideal for swimming. For me, it remains a place to pass through, as there are much more beautiful spots to discover in the city.

2
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A caricature of the French Riviera

Concrete, crowds, show-offs, and people looking at you weird if your skin is too tan. In short, I didn't like it.

2
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