Situated in front of the Old Town and at the end of Avenue Jean Médecin, Place Massena is the junction between several main boulevards in the city. With its numerous coffee shops, high street department stores and quirky restaurants, this prodigious plaza is the epicentre of activity in downtown Nice. The entire square is pedestrianized and a tram runs straight down Avenue Jean Médecin right into the heart of the action.
The ancient buildings that surround the main plaza are a wonder to behold. Their scorched red walls and blue shutters have become synonymous with the area and the local architecture. Today, these fabulous structures hold some of France France’s finest perfume and designer clothing stores. Stroll through the labyrinth of arches and stone columns that house famous department stores such as Galeries Lafayette.
In one corner of the plaza, a 7-metre statue of Apollo sits at the centre of a sky reaching fountain. This beautiful monument is a great way to get your bearings, meet up with friends or simply sit and watch the world go by. Be careful not sit too close though, as the water flumes reach an incredible height and tend to soak nearby onlookers.
Around the plaza is a series of rather curious poles with statues of sitting or kneeling men. These fabulous modern art installations were designed by a Catalan artist called Jaume Plensa and represent the seven continents throughout the world. At night, these colourful sculptures are illuminated in all their glory creating a cosy atmosphere in and around the plaza.
Nice has an action packed events schedule all year round. If you’re visiting in December, the annual Christmas Markets are held in the square and provide visitors with a whole host of attractions including a huge Christmas tree and numerous boutique tents. The Bastille Day celebrations on 14th July include an elaborate military parade and a fireworks display.
Place Massena is a short walk to the Promenade des Anglais and is accessible via a Tram that runs through the plaza from the main train station.
