Nice, the pearl of the French Riviera, is a busy commercial city and the capital of the Alpes Maritimes department. Once the seaside retreat for the turn of the century English aristocracy, today the city of Nice is France's fifth largest city. Both elegant and simple, Nice's charm comes from its exceptional climate as well as its beauty. Even in the winter the café terraces are filled with people happily drinking and contemplating the ultra famous Promenade des Anglais. Always in flower this wonderful walk follows along the bay, looking out onto the Baie Des Anges and the beaches on one side, and on the other such luxury hotels as the Negresco. Just outside Nice, the visitor has the chance to visit some truly beautiful villages perched up in the valleys which cut through the mountains to the north. And as home to the France's second busiest airport it's probably one of the easiest destinations to fly into in France.

The residents of Nice are in some ways the Parisians of the south. A difference perhaps being that the rarely needed fur coats may well be dyed purple, and the clothes and makeup of the 'grandes bourgeosies' are far more colorful than those of their northern sisters. Yet there is an underlying character, an independent spirit, which rejects the central governing influence emanating from Paris. The Niçoise do what the Niçoise want to do, and when they want to do it.

Today Nice is a city of art and culture and after Paris, has the most museums in France. Each distinctive quarter in Nice is alive with markets, boutiques and restaurants making the whole city a lively place to visit. As such, the city is animated at night as well as during the day.

During the summer months things really get interesting. Some of the more popular attractions and festivals include the world renowned Nice Jazz Festival held in the arena, the stunningly beautiful gardens of Cimiez, and the flower "war" on the Promenade Des Anglais in which participate some of the prettiest women on the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera). Looking for something different? Why not stroll along Cours Soleya and explore the colorful flower market full of locals and visitors alike.

The architecture of Nice is another reason why people come to this beautiful seaside city. You are sure to enjoy the wild exaggerations of the Belle Epoque style or the intricately designed Baroque influenced houses and mansions on the hills of Mont Boron. Fabulous creations have also been realized in the floral gardens and parks of the hills of the Chateau, the Chambrun park and the Espace Masséna.

Just a short distance from Nice one has the opportunity to visit the countries of Italy and Monaco, plus visit French cities such as Cannes, Avignon and others. In addition, during the winter months you will have the chance to spend the weekend in the magnificent French Alps skiing some beautiful and challenging terrain. In short, Nice is the perfect jumping off point to many interesting points of interest within France and other neighboring countries.

Whatever your tastes or interests may be, Nice offers a little something for everyone. The city has culture, history, great weather, and an ideal location on the Mediterranean. As such you will find this city a great place to learn French and discover France.

We are confident that you will find Nice to be a wonderful place to study French in France!