Things to do during off peak season in Nice

Located right on the Mediterranean, Nice has some of the best weather in the whole of France, the French Riviera. While open to the sea, Estérel Mountains to the western side, and the Mercantour Alps to the north, protecting the city from the wind, while a wonderful sea breeze provides a mild summer, which reduces the intense heat in Nice. As a result, Nice has some mild weather throughout the year with summer temperatures in the mid-70s and high 50s in the winter.

That's the good news. Although variously boasting 200-250 sunny days a year, the weather remains different in the rest of the 100 days. It rains. November is by far the wettest month of the year, although overcast and rainy days can be confidently predicted in some cases throughout the year. Nice is particularly difficult to predict because of its hills behind, so it can be somewhat cloudy inland while sunny along the coast. Or rainy to the West but sunny in the east.

Summer is a double-edged sword. July or August sees the official French school holidays, the population during holidays is filled with families heading towards the coast and traffic reaching gridlock. Night temperatures in high summer - late July and August - can be a challenge in the mid-30s, and rooms with air conditioning is for visitors not used to humidity and heat recommended. June and September are as a result of any discerning visitor preference.

January is a good month for the off peak season visit, after the worst November left far behind, but before the Spring and April showers. Cool, as one might expect, but dry with very bright winter sun and clear vivid blue sky because of the low humidity. And if you are planning a trip in the winter, the nearby mountain villages offer ski areas with lots of snow, just 60 miles away.

Best Time to Travel

Shoulder or off peak season from September to October in Nice or from mid-March to April is the best time to travel, when you can get lower room rates. You can enjoy Mediterranean climate throughout the year. But despite the warm rays of the sun, many recommend packing extra clothing, even in summer, as winds sweep north from the Mediterranean Sea can be a bit chilly.

September to October is considered the best time of the year to travel to Nice. You can be a witness to the famous Regatta while enjoying a mid-60 degree weather and a little sunbathing.