Nice Harbour, also called Port Lympia, is the city’s main port in the 06300 district, a short walk from the Old Town. Follow the quays past ochre and red Genoese-style buildings, with small traditional fishing boats and large yachts moored side by side. The waterfront is lined with cafés, bars and restaurants, and the former prison at Espace Lympia now hosts cultural exhibitions. Come at dusk to see the boats and hillside homes light up above the water.
A port built from marshland
Port Lympia began as marshland. Work to turn it into Nice’s harbour started in the mid-18th century, and the waterfront that developed around it remains easy to explore on foot. Genoese-style buildings in ochre and red line the quays, giving the port a distinctive setting for a walk beside the water.
The harbour brings together several kinds of vessel. Small, brightly painted pointus, the traditional local fishing boats, share the marina with private motor yachts. Ferries and small cruise ships also use the port. The contrast is part of the scene: working boats and leisure craft sit within the same compact waterfront.
Along the quays
A walk around the harbour takes you past the boats and the colourful façades. Place du Commerce is an area to look out for if you want to browse antique shops and art galleries. Cafés, bars and restaurants are also found around the port, including options for seafood and other meals by the water.
Espace Lympia adds a cultural stop to the waterfront. The building was once a prison and is now used for exhibitions. Nearby, Quai des Deux Emmanuel is the departure point for ferries to Corsica and Sardinia. A traditional wooden boat shuttle also crosses the harbour.
Getting there and choosing a time
The Port Lympia tram station is the terminus of the T2 line, which provides access from the airport. Buses also serve the harbour. From the port, it is a short walk to the Old Town, and Castle Hill is close by, making the waterfront easy to include with either area.
For a different view of the port, come around dusk or after dark. Lights from the boats and homes on the surrounding hillsides bring colour to the waterfront as the water darkens. If you are planning to continue to the Old Town, the walk along the coast is another way to connect the two areas.
FAQ
How do you get to Nice Harbour?
Take the T2 tram to Port Lympia, its terminus, or travel by bus. The harbour is also a short walk from the Old Town.
What can you see at Nice Harbour?
The quays are lined with Genoese-style buildings and moored vessels, including traditional pointus fishing boats and yachts. Espace Lympia, a former prison now used for exhibitions, is another stop.
When is a good time to visit Nice Harbour?
Go at dusk or after dark to see the boats and hillside homes illuminated.
Do ferries leave from Nice Harbour?
Yes. Ferries to Corsica and Sardinia depart from Quai des Deux Emmanuel.
