What's the weather like in Nice in November
Temperatures plummet in November in Nice, France, proving that winter really is underway. Days are characterised by crisp weather, often with clear skies and plenty of sunshine, and it's a great time to take a late autumnal break before winter finally sets in. The city tends to be fairly empty at this time of year and the beaches are basically isolated, so it's best to check opening times and availability of activities you want to do and places you'd like to go.
Temperature
Average daily temperatures fall a lot from October, sitting at a cool 13°C. Often this can rise to 16°C and above, which is a lot warmer than most of Europe at this time of year. Average low temperatures are around 9°C, making the evenings in Nice slightly chilly. Remember to pack layers so you can wrap up warm after dark.
Rainfall
Despite almost being winter, November sees less rainfall than October in Nice, with around 110mm falling over a period of 10 days throughout the month. There's still a fair chance you might get caught out with some showers, so remember to slip an umbrella into your suitcase to be on the safe side. Mediterranean showers are usually heavy but pass quickly, clearing up the skies as they leave and bringing out the sunshine.
Sea Temperature
November is not a great time for beach-goers to visit Nice, as the sea temperatures are a chilly 17°C. Casual swimmers might want to steer clear of the water, but budding watersports enthusiasts can dive right in with the comfort of a wetsuit. At this time of year, Nice experiences a slight coastal breeze which can be cold and which can make the sea choppy and unruly, so be very careful if you do decide to dip your toes in.
Sunshine Hours
It may almost be winter, but November in Nice still has a lot of opposite the well-known Negresco Hotel, and is , with around 9 hours a day. This means there's still enough time to explore all that the city has to offer before darkness falls.
November in Nice is characterised by long, often sun-filled days and a crisp coastal chill. The city is fairly empty after the final summer tourists have left, and it's the perfect time to visit to explore all the cultural attractions as well as soak up some final autum sun before winter sets in.
Nice Hotels for November
Hotel Boreal
For a stylish, comfortable stay, check into the Hotel Boreal, which is tucked away in the pedestrianised area of Nice city centre, right in front of the shopping mecca of Nice Etoile. The décor consists of a flurry of marble floors, earthy colours, and rustic archways, whilst the rooms are simple but sophisticated with white wood furniture and comfortable furnishings. All rooms are air-conditioned and have cable television and WiFi, and all boast views out across the historic part of the city. There is an ambient dining area which opens out onto a charming terrace where guests can enjoy a traditional French breakfast.
Hotel Vendrome
The traditional and charming Hotel Vendome sits just 500m from the beachfront in Nice in a grand old French building. The rooms are quaint and kitsch with floral wallpaper, light wooden flooring, and ornate, white furniture. They also boast private balconies with seating areas and spectacular views across the city as well as WiFi and cable television. In addition, the hotel boasts a cosy bar and lounge area where guests can sit in the evening with a drink, and enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast in in the morning.
Hotel Nicea
For a comfortable stay away from the city centre, check into the Hotel Nicea which lies on the outskirts of the city 12 minutes from the seafront and 10 minutes from the Old Town. Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy main streets, guests can enjoy the welcoming, stylish décor with splashes of vibrant colour and contemporary furniture. The rooms are simple and spacious, with earthy tones and balconies that provide great views across the surrounding areas. In addition, there is a solarium roof terrace on the top floor, where guests can enjoy a drink with the sunset, or eat breakfast from the expansive buffet service.
Nice Beaches in November
The beaches in November are basically free of crowds thanks to the cooler temperatures and the chilly sea. However, the coast is still great for taking autumnal walks or for reading a book in the November sunshine. There are plenty of beaches surrounding Nice, which are made up of public and private stretches of sand. The former offers a place for everyone to lay their towel down, whilst the latter provides exclusive entry and services to paying patrons they are usually attached to hotels or restaurants. In November, the coastal breeze makes watersports a popular activity, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to partake in a range of activities right along the coast.
Neptune Plage sits opposite the well-known Negresco Hotel, and is affiliated with the grand accommodation. It's a private beach, but visitors don't have to be staying at the hotel to enjoy it. It's a great, child-friendly stretch of shingle with a kids play area, and there are plenty of well-spaced sun loungers to sit back and relax on. The on-site bar lounge serves a selection of traditional French dishes, including a dedicated children's menu, and there are a variety of board games to try out if the weather suddenly turns.
Bars and Restaurants
La P'Tit Cocotte
La P'Tit Cocotte is a quaint little restaurant in the heart of Nice's Old Town. Set amongst the winding, cobblestone streets, it boasts a little outdoor area perfect for soaking up the last of the sun before winter. There are two main set menus, the Midi and the Soir, both of which feature a selection of French dishes. The menus change every week to make the most of fresh, seasonal ingredients, which means that any two trips to the restaurant can be completely different. As well as a delicious array of French cuisine, there is also an extensive wine list that highlights local flavours and grapes.
Café du Port
Café du Port is situated in Nice's picturesque port with views out across the harbour and beyond. The cosy outdoor seating area is great for enjoying the early winter sun, and the scenery is second to none. Inside, the décor is traditional with added touches of elegant style wooden floorboards are reminiscent of a beachside hut, whilst the faux-chandeliers and chinking china offer a more sophisticated atmosphere. When the weather's not great, duck inside and enjoy the views from the wall-to-wall windows. To top it off, the expansive menu is full of delectable Mediterranean dishes like creamy salmon, beef tartare, king prawn risotto, and medallions of veal.
Cheese Steak House
For a cheap, hearty meal, grab a table at the Cheese Steak House which is nestled in the heart of Nice and offers a show of 1950s diner style design. The menu features a selection of burgers and sandwiches, where you can choose what meat, cheese, and salads you want inside. There's a choice between chicken and beef and traditional French cheeses such as Emmental and Comte. For inspiration, there are some readymade burgers, including the Route 66 and the Texaco, and you can pick up a great value meal deal.
Things to do in Nice in November
Le Jardin Albert
Take a late autumn stroll through Le Jardin Albert, which boasts a series of walkways surrounded by unusual flowers and exotic plants. There are a collection of statues dotted around and lots of seating areas to enjoy a crisp coffee outside. Le Jardin Albert is the perfect place for kids, with an expansive play area, well-maintained facilities, and there is an on-site bandstand which sees regular performances by local jazz quartets and orchestras. You might not need to in November, but in the summer months the interactive fountains are perfect for cooling off in in the winter months they are best for just looking at.
Fort de Mont Alban
If you fancy taking a hike, take a walk to the Fort du Mont Alban, an old military fort that sits on a hill overlooking the city. The walk up to it is pretty, with lush greenery, and you are greeted at the top by spectacular views over Nice. It's a great place to soak up some of the autumnal sunshine and enjoy some peace and quiet away from the bustle of the city centre, plus you get to learn more about Nice in this traditional 16th Century fort.
Galerie des Ponchettes
Art lovers should duck inside the Galerie des Ponchettes, a white-cube contemporary art gallery that showcases some of the best modern day artwork from around France and further afield. There are regularly rotating exhibitions throughout the year, making every trip to the gallery a different experience, and there is an on-site shop where you can pick up some prints and memorabilia from the exhibitions. The gallery is a great way to learn more about the contemporary art scene in France, and also acts as the perfect place to seek cover during the inevitable pesky November showers.
