When you think of the best bars in Nice, images of elegant cocktails, golden sunsets, and the buzzing Mediterranean nightlife come to mind. The French Riviera capital has always exuded an effortless cool, from its pastel-coloured buildings to its palm-lined Promenade des Anglais. But it’s after dark that the city truly comes alive, offering a cocktail of culture, class, and coastal charisma. Whether you’re after a sophisticated rooftop sip or a hidden speakeasy, Nice has a bar stool waiting for you.
1. Movida – The View with a Vibe
Perched along the iconic Quai des États-Unis, Movida delivers jaw-dropping sea views paired with craft cocktails and live DJ sets. It’s where locals and savvy tourists blend under the Riviera sunset. If you’re planning a travel itinerary that values both scenery and social buzz, Movida is an unmissable pit stop.
2. Le Shapko – Jazz, Jam, and Joy
For live music lovers, Le Shapko in the Old Town is a jazzy haven. Owned by a saxophonist, this bar brings in acts from around the world to play everything from funk to blues. Don’t expect to sit still—this is where your evening turns unexpectedly magical. If you’re chasing the soul of the city, this is your soundtrack.
3. Les Distilleries Idéales – For Beer Connoisseurs
If your palate leans towards craft beer, you’ll adore Les Distilleries Idéales. With a wide selection of local brews and an eclectic interior, this bar captures the essence of alternative Nice. Similar to the vibrant bar scenes found in Florence, it’s ideal for a relaxed night with character and conversation.
4. Le Plongeoir – Drink on a Diving Board
Quite literally hanging over the Mediterranean, Le Plongeoir is a bar-restaurant perched on an old diving platform. It’s an architectural wonder offering champagne and seafood in one of the most photogenic spots in Nice. A must for your Instagram, and a highlight if you’re also exploring quirky travel spots like Apalachicola.
5. Wayne’s Bar – British Meets Riviera
Craving a bit of home? Wayne’s Bar is the perfect pub-style dive in Vieux Nice, complete with live rock bands, Guinness on tap, and dance-worthy nights. Expect crowds, cheer, and a good old-fashioned time. It’s the kind of place you’ll stumble into and leave hours later with a new set of friends.
6. Le Ghost – Speakeasy Style
If hidden entrances and vintage decor excite you, then Le Ghost is your scene. Tucked away behind a discreet door in the Old Town, it offers classic cocktails with a cinematic twist. Their signature “Ghost Martini” is the stuff of local legend. If you enjoyed the hidden gelato gems of Rome, you’ll love this secret find in Nice.
7. Balthazar – Champagne and Chic
For an upscale experience, Balthazar along the Promenade is an elegant choice. Specialising in champagne and charcuterie, it’s a place to dress up and celebrate life. Whether you’re staying in a family hotel in Rimini or travelling solo in France, a night at Balthazar adds sparkle to any Riviera visit.
8. Akathor – Sports and Social
Football fan or just up for some high-energy fun? Akathor on Rue de la Préfecture is your bar. With multiple screens, hearty food, and a lively atmosphere, it’s the sports bar of choice for many expats and travellers. It’s comparable to the social hotspots listed among Kansas City’s best free activities.
Why Nice’s Bar Scene is Unlike Any Other
Nice offers more than just sea views and scenic strolls. Its bar scene is a melting pot of cultures, histories, and styles. From Riviera elegance to underground edginess, the city caters to all tastes and temperaments. Whether you want to sip slowly at a rooftop terrace or groove to funk in a back-alley jazz den, there’s something unforgettable waiting in the night.
Planning Your Night Out in Nice
If you’re charting out your Riviera itinerary, exploring the Gazette Nigeria website can offer more travel insights and local secrets. Check out their travel section for destination guides and regional highlights. Pair your Nice adventure with nearby European gems or even far-flung ideas for your next escape.
Whether you’re clinking glasses at a cliffside bar or dancing till dawn in Old Town, one thing’s for certain—Nice knows how to throw a party, and the best bars in Nice are your invitation to it.
