Nice, France Review

When you think family-friendly, you don't often hear Nice, France mentioned at the top of lists. Having lived in Nice with my husband and 1-year-old, I would have to disagree. There are not only many things for kids to enjoy, but there are also lots of attractions and things for parents to do.

The produce markets, especially the Cours Selaya Flower Market (which also features produce), are fun for all ages. You will see olives the size of golf balls, vendor tables with basket after basket packed with herbs and spices, and local artisan bakers selling fresh-baked peasant bread. It isn't just about finding great fresh produce, although that doesn't hurt. It's really about the social aspect of the Nice markets, which are a rush of humanity and excitement.

After you visit the Cours Selaya market, meander into Old Nice and find an ice cream shop to please the kids. Since Nice is right next to Italy, the ice cream here is in the gelato style. If you have an apartment rental in Nice, also buy some fresh-made ravioli in Old Nice to cook back at your room.

Simply wander Nice with the kids. There are several parks and playgrounds that can be found in almost any neighborhood. At Place Massena, there is a Merry-go-Round just a few steps from the beach.

Hit the Rue de France pedestrian zone, where you and the kids can enjoy some true French cafe life. Even if you're worried about the kids getting rowdy, just grab a seat outside where things are noisy anyway. You should have no problem finding kid-friendly favorites, as most cafes along here sell Italian classics like spaghetti.

Just be aware if you order pizza, it may come with an egg on it. Tell the waiter sans oeuf or without egg. You will also need to cut the pie yourself. Burgers also could come with an egg. In fact, in Nice, you never know when something will arrive with an egg on top.

The beach is a great place to spend the day. Be sure you bring a good solid rolling beach mat or folding chairs. A beach towel just won't cut it on the rocky beach. You could also pay to rent chaise lounge chairs at one of the cafes right on the shore. Bring sandals or flip-flops for you and the kids, because it is downright painful walking on the rocks.

Also be aware your kids might see a topless woman. It isn't like every woman here goes topless, but odds are good one or two on the beach will be sans bikini top.

If you will visit with a stroller, be aware that you will probably encounter stairs with no elevator in places. This isn't exclusive to Nice, and is pretty commonplace elsewhere in France and in Europe. You might consider a baby carrier for infants, or even a stroller/backpack combo. Otherwise, bring an umbrella stroller so you can easily carry it up and down stairs or carry your child and toss it over your shoulder.

Nice is a great city to visit with families. There are so many things to do with the kids. Nice has several museums and attractions ranging from the Matisse museum to wonderful Roman ruins. There are some wonderful shops selling items for babies and kids, and this is a great place to find unique children's clothes. It is also close to some great daytrips to Monte Carlo, Cannes, or the medieval fortified villages of Eze and St. Paul de Vence.