What's the weather like in Nice in July
July, along with August, is the hottest month in Nice, France. The Mediterranean climate provides warm temperatures and long days filled with plenty of sunshine and minimal rain. July sees tourists flock to the sand and shingle shores of Nice in search of a relaxing break mixed with a sprinkling of culture. The start of the summer holidays in July means that the city becomes much more crowded than previous months, so it's worth booking activities and restaurants in advance to avoid disappointment.
Temperature
In July, average high temperatures soar to 27°C and above during the hottest parts of the day, but on average you can expect to experience temperatures of around 24°C. Evenings are warm, too, at around 20°C. Swimwear and light, summer clothing are essential items for July, and it's unlikely you'll need anything warmer than a thin cardigan or jumper. Pack lots of suncream to avoid getting burnt, and slip a hat and a decent pair of sunglasses into your luggage as well.
Rainfall
The warm summer sun in July is complemented by hardly any rain. Only around 10mm falls throughout the month over 4 days, meaning it's very unlikely you'll run into any showers.
Sea Temperature
Just as well, really, because you'll be spending most of your time on the beach. Sea temperatures are a very pleasant 23°C in July, the perfect temperature for swimming and splashing about in the shallows. Watersports are abundant along the coast, so if you fancy trying something a bit more adventurous then hit the waves in a wetsuit. Bear in mind that the beaches are busy at this time of year, so it's a good idea to head down early to bag a seat.
Sunshine Hours
There'll be plenty of time to soak up the sun, though, as in July Nice sees around 14 hours of sunshine per day. That's enough time to hit the beach and explore all the cultural activities that the city has on offer.
July is a busy time in Nice, with the start of the summer holidays bringing lots of tourists to the shores. Despite the crowds, though, it's a great time to visit to experience the Mediterranean sun and to enjoy the beautiful landscapes that flourish in summer.
Nice Hotels for July
Hotel Ellington
The Hotel Ellington is a grand accommodation option, boasting a rustic, terracotta coloured exterior adorned with typical French details and ornate designs. The rooms are modern and simple featuring monochrome patterns and flourishes of colour in the form of flowers, vases, and artwork. Each room has access to free WiFi, a flat screen television, and views across the city. There's also an on-site restaurant that serves up local cuisine, complete with a stylish outdoor terrace and a well-designed bar perfect for enjoying an evening tipple in. In addition, the Ellington's central location means guests are within walking distance of the old town and the beach.
Hipark
The Hipark in Nice is a comfortable four-star hotel priding itself on its clean design and welcoming facilities. It's situated just ten minutes from the city centre, and is in the perfect location for those attending the Nice convention centre. There is a choice between standard studios, suites, and deluxe suites, all of which are light and airy thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, and are decked out in a stylish décor. The hotel also has a swimming pool and relaxing terrace, as well as spa and fitness facilities and a breakfast room for the morning buffet.
Hotel Carlone
Budget travellers might want to check into the Hotel Carlone, which is a small, well-designed hotel in the heart of the city. There is a small garden out the back and it is set in a beautiful, nouveau building reminiscent of 19th Century France. Guests can enjoy the rich décor that runs throughout the building, as well as free WiFi, televisions, and a delicious continental breakfast, which is served in the cosy café area.
Nice Beaches in July
July is the perfect time to hit the beaches in Nice, and there are an abundance of great spots to lay down your towel. It's a busy time of year, so it's best to head down early to secure a place. Beaches in Nice are either private or public, with the former offering exclusive facilities to paying guests and the latter offering a great place to soak up the sun for anyone and everyone.
Hi Beach
Hi Beach is a private beach attached to the Hi Hotel. It's describes itself as an eco-friendly spot that offers peace and calm to sunbathers. As well as the hotel facilities though you don't have to be staying at the hotel to use it there is a restaurant that spills out onto the beach serving delicious sushi and other snacks like burgers and grilled fish. In addition, the on-site bar serves a selection of refreshing cocktails, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks with waitress service, so you can enjoy your tipple from the comfort of your sunbed. It's a shingle beach, but the sparkling blue waters and the views out to sea are magnificent.
Plage de Lenval
Plage de Lenval is a public beach situated in front of the city hospital. It's a popular spot with the locals and provides the opportunity for beach-goers to try their hands at windsurfing. Like Hi Beach, it is a shingle shore and can get quite busy in the summer months. Luckily, there's usually enough space for everyone, as well as a series of nearby restaurants and bars that cater to your refreshment needs. Unlike some other public beaches, Lenval has its own set of facilities, including well-maintained toilets and showers for sunbathers to use a lifesaver when you've spent all day in the hot sun and in the salty waves.
Bars and Restaurants
Le Passe-Plat
Le Passe-Plat is a cute restaurant situated in the port of Nice. From the outside it boasts a traditional French design, with rustic stone walls and an archway entrance. The menu is filled with contemporary cuisine, taking typical French dishes and presenting them with exciting modern twists, often with a dash of Asian influence. Chef Anthony Coppet puts together mouth-watering flavours from local ingredients, and you can order hearty dishes like shoulder of lamb and confit of duck, as well as international fusion ideas like green curry and fried Thai clams.
La Roustide
La Roustide is kind of like France's answer to a gastropub. It's light and airy inside with a splash of French design, like wooden boxes filled with overflowing flowers. White-wash walls are contrasted with pine furniture and muted spatters of colour, whilst the small details like jam jars filled with candles and olive oil displays give it character. The menu is small, but full of character, too, boasting a selection of typically French dishes such as foie gras, freshly caught grilled fish, and a melt-in-the-mouth soufflé don't forget to order dessert.
Gelateria Azzurro
The best way to beat the summer heat of July in Nice is to grab an ice cream, and there's no better place than Gelateria Azzurro, which serves up a colourful variety of gelatos in numerous different flavours. The modern interior is reminiscent of a plush Italian ice cream parlour, but the eye-catching displays remind customers that ice cream is fun. There are the standard flavours available like strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla, as well as more experimental combinations, like chocolate chilli, mojito, lychee, and lavender flavour.
Things to do in Nice in July
Phoenix Park
Take a summer stroll through Phoenix Park, which is a beautiful botanical garden boasting one of the largest greenhouses in Europe, as well as an on-site zoo and a kid's playground. There are lots of walking routes and secret gardens to explore, as well as numerous sites for picnics, including in front of a fountain that is accompanied by music. The floral displays are at their peak in summer, and there's an aquarium for sea-life lovers to visit. If picnics aren't your thing, there is a café serving hot drinks, soft drinks, and a selection of sandwiches and light lunch options.
Theatre de la Photographie et de l'Image
Photography buffs should make a trip to the Theatre de la Photographie et de l'Image for an encompassing look at the history of this popular medium in Nice, as well as around the rest of the world. It's set in a picturesque terracotta building surrounded by lush green plants and, inside, visitors can wander amongst displays of antique cameras and themed photography exhibits that are regularly rotated. It's a small museum so it only requires a short visit, but it provides a welcome relief from the hot summer sun for all the family.
Jet Evasion
Jet skiing is popular in Nice in the summer months, when the water is warm and the beaches are busy. Jet Evasion offers a selection of jet skis for adults, allowing you to explore the coastline and waters from a different perspective. Other watersports are available along the coast, including activities like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paragliding perfect for any adventure seekers looking to get their adrenalin pumping.
