What's the Weather like in Nice in February
Temperature
Winter continues in February in Nice, France, but the temperatures start to heat up slightly from January creating a pleasantly mild climate. At this time of year the city is quieter than the busy summer months, providing the perfect time to visit if you're looking to avoid the crowds and soak up the abundance of culture on offer.
At around 10°C, the daily average temperatures are relatively warm for this time of year, and in the hottest parts of the day these can rise to 13°C and above, making it feel like spring. At night, however, temperatures still dip to around 6°C, so it's advisable to pack a selection of layers to keep yourself warm when the sun goes down.
Rainfall
Despite nearing the end of winter, the rainfall in February is still quite high with around 70mm falling throughout the month. Showers take place over an average of 6 days, meaning any downpours will be short and sharp. It's best to slip an umbrella into your suitcase so you don't get caught out if it does start to drizzle.
Sea Temperature
In the summer months, Nice is often the go-to place for sun-seekers who are looking to relax on the beaches and enjoy the warm waters. In February, though, the sea temperatures remain a cool 13°C, making even the shallows a little too nippy for casual swimmers. Even watersports enthusiasts wear wetsuits at this time of year to keep warm, and to keep the chill of the coastal winds at bay.
Sunshine Hours
Aside from the beaches, Nice has numerous other things to offer visitors and, with 9 hours of sunshine a day, there is plenty of time to explore them all before the sun sets. Sunbathing and swimming might be out of the question, but the long, often sun-filled days of February provide the perfect backdrop to a late winter break. If you're looking to beat the crowds but don't mind layering up against the last chill of winter, then this could be the ideal time for you to get to know Nice.
Nice Hotels in February
Hotel Negresco
For a five-star luxury winter break, check into the grand Hotel Negresco, which overlooks the stunning Bay of Angels. Inside the spacious rooms are adorned with the expansive art collection owned by the hotel, and the apartments are decorated with a mix of old and new white walls with pops of bright colour are matched with heavy, dark furniture and elaborate chandeliers. In addition, there is a private spa for guests, in-room massages, as well as a private beach and full concierge services.
Villa Victoria
Villa Victoria sits in the heart of Nice, surrounded by a huge garden full of beautiful flowers and plants. Located on the quirky, Art Deco style Boulevard Victor Hugo, it is in the centre of all the action. When it comes to the rooms, there is a choice between superior bedrooms, which boast amazing views across the gardens or out onto the city, or apartments, which offer kitchenettes and large, furnished balconies for up to four people.
Hotel du Suede
Those who are on a tighter budget might wish to check into the Hotel du Suede, a modest accommodation option in the heart of Nice's pedestrian quarter and just moments from the beach. Rooms are modestly but comfortably decorated with splashes of rich colour, and all come equipped with free WiFi and a flat screen TV. Guests are invited to enjoy breakfast in the hotel, but there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars just a stone's throw from the accommodation.
Nice Beach for February
February in Nice is chilly and certainly not as warm as the summer months that draw in thousands of beach-goers every year. The temperatures are still fairly cool at this time of year and the strong coastal breeze creates choppy waves that are sometimes unruly not great for casual swimmers. Because there are so few sunbathers, some of the beaches and their bars and cafés close for the winter, so be sure to check out what's open before you go.
Castel Plage
Castel Plage is a large sheltered beach that is tucked in behind the jutting headland, offering some respite from the winter winds. It can get fairly warm when the sun is out in the hottest part of the day, and the beautiful white sands make a great setting for winter strolls. In addition, there are still lots of opportunities to try watersports in February, so if you want to check out the water, wrap up in a wetsuit and give windsurfing or kitesurfing a go.
Neptune Plage
Neptune Plage is another picturesque beach perfect for winter walks and exploring. Again, the sea is too cold for a dip, but the sands provide the perfect backdrop for a takeaway lunch or a warm afternoon spent reading. The main feature of the beach is the wrought iron jetty that creates a rustic outlook across the horizon.
Bars and Restaurants
Civette Cours
The small, local and rustic Civette Cours is a typical French brasserie that has a delicious menu filled with traditional dishes as well as international cuisine. The interior is modest and humble, with delicate little touches that add character and charm, like quaint, colourful hanging baskets and handwritten blackboards. Choose from a selection of hearty meals, including a variety of homemade pates, freshly caught fish, and seasonal salads, and combine it with a locally made wine. For dessert choose a French classic like Crème Brulee or Tart Tatin to finish.
La Reserve de Nice
In the warmer weather you might want to sit outside and enjoy your meal. If so, head to La Reserve de Nice which is located in the old port with spectacular views across the harbour and sea. It boasts a fanciful menu filled with mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes, including French favourites like foie gras and beef filet, as well as more experimental offerings, such as rock fish soup, octopus, and young coley. You can opt to select a dish from the a la carte menu, or choose a variety of dishes from the two set menus that are available La Reserve Menu and the Riviera menu.
Le Sejour Café
For a stylish dining experience, go to Le Sejour Café, which is a flurry of white-washed walls lined with bookshelves and modern art. The elegant backdrop provides the perfect place to cosy up in the cooler evenings and tuck into a delicious French dinner. Choose from an expansive selection of locally sourced dishes, from pate to baked cheeses, and filet mignon. Dessert is just as important as the main course in France, so be sure to order one of the French sweet treats which include traditional Tart Tatin.
Things to do in Nice in February
Musee Matisse
Matisse was a major impressionist painter during the 20th Century and Nice has an entire museum dedicated to his works. The Musee Matisse hosts a permanent collection of the painter's pieces, all of which are characterised by his signature brush strokes and bright colours. In addition, the museum holds regular rotating temporary exhibitions throughout the year, all of which have some connection to Matisse in some way.
Cimiez Hill
The Matisse museum is surrounded by an ancient archaeological site that is worth a little exploration if you're in the area. Cimiez Hill was the centre of a Roman settlement and retains some of the ruins from its original use. Next to this there are some quaint olive groves that are worth a wander through, which lead to the Fransiscan Monastery which dates back to the 15th Century. The gardens are nice here, but in January you might want to skip these and head straight for the church which is decorated inside by 15th Century masterpieces by the likes of Louis Brea.
Musee Marc Chagall
If the weather is particularly bad during your visit, or you're just a big fan of art galleries, then be sure to take a trip to the Musee Marc Chagall which hosts the tableaux by the artist which depicts seventeen major biblical messages. Alongside this epic piece of work, the museum often holds regularly temporary exhibitions and shows that present more of Chagall's work, or offer an insight into his life and art in some way.
Opera House
For a typically French evening, opt to go to the exquisite Opera House to see a performance. The building itself is a popular attraction in Nice thanks to its elaborate design and ornate detailing, but it also boasts a roster of great operas to suit every taste, as well as classical music concerts, ballet performances, and jazz symphonies. Just being inside the Opera House is an amazing experience, but a world-class show is the icing on the cake.
