How long does it take to walk through Cimiez?

A full exploration usually takes about 3 to 4 hours. This includes roughly 60 minutes for each major museum and time to enjoy the Roman ruins and monastery gardens.

Is the Matisse Museum worth it?

Yes, especially for those interested in the artist's creative process. It houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of his works, including his famous cut-outs and personal artifacts.

Where is Henri Matisse buried?

Matisse is buried in the cemetery of the Monastère de Cimiez. His grave is a simple stone slab located in the upper section of the cemetery, often adorned with flowers from admirers.

Can I walk to Cimiez from Nice city center?

You can, but it is a steep uphill climb that takes about 25-30 minutes from the Nice-Ville station. Most visitors prefer taking Bus Line 5 to the Chagall Museum and walking the rest of the way.

Are the Roman ruins in Nice free to see?

The Roman amphitheater and the general park area of the Jardin des Arènes are free to enter. However, the formal Archaeology Museum and the excavation site of the Roman baths require a ticket.

What is the best time to visit the Cimiez Monastery gardens?

The gardens are best in late spring when the roses are in full bloom. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden light for photographers looking for views over the city.

Is this walking route suitable for children?

Yes, the Jardin des Arènes is a very family-friendly park with plenty of space to run. The museums are also manageable, though the walk involves some hills that might be tiring for very small children.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Perched on a hill overlooking the azure waters of the Baie des Anges, the Cimiez neighborhood is a sanctuary of culture and history. This self-guided walk takes you through a landscape where Roman ruins meet Belle Époque grandiosity and 20th-century masterpieces. The journey begins at the Marc Chagall National Museum, a space where art and spirituality intertwine through the artist's vibrant stained glass and massive canvases. As you ascend the hill, the architectural silhouette of Le Regina serves as a reminder of the era when European royalty frequented Nice for its mild winters. Nearby, the Matisse Museum, housed in a striking Genoese villa, invites you to explore the evolution of Henri Matisse, who found his greatest inspiration in the Mediterranean light. This neighborhood stroll isn't just about museums; it's about the spaces between them. You'll wander through ancient olive groves in the Jardin des Arènes, where Roman gladiators once fought, and find peace in the Franciscan Monastery’s gardens, which offer some of the most stunning panoramic views of the city. This walking route provides the flexibility to linger over a painting or enjoy a quiet moment under a centenarian tree. Exploring independently allows you to absorb the layers of time that define Nice—from its origins as the Roman city of Cemenelum to its status as a haven for the modern avant-garde. This walking tour Nice experience reveals the quiet side of the Riviera, away from the bustle of the Promenade des Anglais, focusing instead on the intellectual and spiritual heritage of the Côte d'Azur.

Highlights

The world's largest collection of Marc Chagall's Biblical Message works

The former residence of Queen Victoria and Henri Matisse at Le Regina

The 17th-century Genoese villa housing the Matisse Museum

Ancient Roman amphitheater ruins and ancient olive groves

Panoramic views of Nice from the Franciscan Monastery gardens

The final resting place of Henri Matisse and Raoul Dufy

Tour Stops (6)

Marc Chagall National Museum

Start exploring with Zigway at this purpose-built sanctuary. Marc Chagall himself was deeply involved in the design of this museum, which was created to house his 17-part 'Biblical Message' cycle. As you enter, notice how the natural light interacts with the vibrant blues and reds of his stained glass. This isn't just a gallery; it's a testament to Chagall's belief in the universal power of art. The garden, designed by Henri Fish, features Mediterranean flora that the artist loved. Look for the outdoor mosaic reflecting in the pool, which adds another layer of tranquility to this artistic pilgrimage. Take your time to absorb the dreamlike symbolism and poetic use of color that made Chagall a master of the 20th century.

Le Regina

As you walk further up the Boulevard de Cimiez, the massive white facade of Le Regina dominates the horizon. Built in 1897 to host Queen Victoria during her winter stays, this former luxury hotel represents the height of Belle Époque architecture. With its ornate ironwork and crown-like domes, it was once the most prestigious address in Nice. Later, it became a residence for artists and writers, most notably Henri Matisse, who lived and worked here during the latter part of his life. From his windows, he could see the olive trees and the light he so famously captured. While the building is now private apartments, its exterior remains one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.

Matisse Museum

Housed in the 17th-century Villa des Arènes, this museum offers an intimate look at the evolution of Henri Matisse. Unlike larger galleries, this collection focuses on the artist's personal journey, featuring many of his personal objects, early sketches, and his famous late-career paper cut-outs. The contrast between the ochre-red Genoese villa and the modernist art inside creates a unique atmosphere. You can trace his transition from Impressionism to Fauvism and finally to the radical simplicity of his final works. The museum's location, surrounded by the light and trees that Matisse loved, helps explain why he chose to spend nearly four decades in Nice.

Jardin des Arènes de Cimiez

Step into the shade of the centenarian olive grove. This public park sits atop the ruins of Cemenelum, the ancient Roman capital of the Alpes-Maritimes region. To your left, you'll see the remains of the amphitheater, which could once hold thousands of spectators. Today, the atmosphere is far more peaceful, often filled with locals playing petanque or families enjoying picnics. It is a wonderful place to rest between museum visits and appreciate how the layers of history—Roman, medieval, and modern—coexist in this single neighborhood. The silver leaves of the olive trees provide a classic Mediterranean canopy that has inspired countless artists over the centuries.

Monastère de Cimiez Garden

Continue your walking route to the gardens of the Franciscan Monastery. Originally a vegetable garden for the monks, this is now one of the most beautiful public spaces in Nice. The meticulously manicured rose garden and citrus trees provide a fragrant backdrop for a quiet stroll. Make your way to the terrace at the edge of the garden for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Paillon valley and the hills surrounding Nice. It is easy to see why the monks chose this site for contemplation. The garden retains its 16th-century layout, offering a rare glimpse into historical landscape design in the region.

Monastère de Cimiez

Conclude your self-guided adventure at the 16th-century monastery church. Inside, you will find three masterpieces by the Renaissance artist Ludovico Bréa, including a hauntingly beautiful 'Pietà.' The church's interior is a stark, peaceful contrast to the opulent museums you visited earlier. After exploring the church and the small Franciscan museum, head to the adjacent cemetery. This is the final resting place of Henri Matisse and Raoul Dufy. Their graves are modest, reflecting the quiet dignity of the area. It is a fitting end to a journey through the artistic legacy of Cimiez, standing at the intersection of religious devotion and artistic brilliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Cimiez hill route is widely considered the best for art lovers, as it connects the Marc Chagall and Matisse Museums. This self-guided walk allows you to see world-class 20th-century art within a 15-minute walk of each other.