About Castle Hill
Castle Hill (Colline du Château) is a 92-meter rocky outcrop jutting into the Mediterranean between the Old Town and the Port. Though the medieval castle was destroyed in 1706, the hill remains Nice's best viewpoint, offering stunning 360-degree panoramas over the Baie des Anges, Old Town's terracotta roofs, and the Alps behind. Shaded gardens, a waterfall, and ruins make this a peaceful escape above the city bustle. Pair this stop with the Nice guide and the wider France overview.
⏰ Hours & Best Times
- Park: Daily 8 AM - 8 PM (summer), 8 AM - 6 PM (winter)
- Elevator: Daily 9 AM - 7 PM (€1.50 round trip)
- Best: Sunset 1 hour before dusk for golden hour
- Morning: Cooler for hiking up, good light
💰 Costs
- Park entry: Free
- Elevator: €1.50 round trip (or free stairs)
- Parking: None on hill, nearby lots €2-4/hour
- Café: €3-5 for drinks at top
✨ Highlights
- 🌅 Panoramic viewpoints: Best views over Baie des Anges and Promenade
- 💦 Cascade: Artificial waterfall adding peaceful ambiance
- 🏛️ Castle ruins: Remnants of medieval fortifications
- 🏖️ Cemetery: Historic cemetery with notable graves and sea views
- 🌳 Shaded gardens: Cool refuge from summer heat
- ⛵ Port views: Look down on Nice's harbor and boats
📝 Tips
- Free stairs or elevator: 213 steps up from Old Town, or €1.50 elevator
- Sunset timing: Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for best colors
- Bring water: Limited fountains, especially if hiking up
- Photography: Multiple viewpoints - explore different angles
- Allow 1 hour: Time to climb, explore, enjoy views