Top 5 museums in Nice you absolutely must visit – Cultural break with AMMI Hotels

Nice, the pearl of the French Riviera, is a true open-air museum, rich in history, culture, and art. For AMMI Hotels guests, ideally located in the heart of the city, here is a selection of the 5 must-visit museums, excluding the MAMAC which is currently closed for renovation.

 

1. Musée Matisse – Modern Art in Cimiez

Located in the peaceful Cimiez district, the Musée Matisse is a must for modern art lovers. Housed in a 17th-century Genoese villa surrounded by Mediterranean gardens, the museum traces the career of Henri Matisse, one of the most famous French painters of the 20th century.

What you will find there:

• Permanent collections: paintings, sculptures, drawings, and cut-outs.
• Iconic works: Nu bleu IV, La Verdure, and several portraits of Matisse and his family.
• Historic setting: the museum is set in a villa offering stunning views of Nice and the hills of Cimiez.
• AMMI Hotels tip: Combine your visit with the Marc Chagall Museum, just a 10-minute walk away.

 

2. Musée Marc Chagall – A Poetic Dive into Chagall’s Work

The Marc Chagall Museum, located in the Cimiez district, is dedicated to the work of the Russian painter and houses the largest collection of Chagall worldwide. Built to display the Bible series, the museum allows an immersion into his colorful and poetic universe.

Highlights:

• Permanent collections: gouaches, pastels, drawings, and biblical works.
• Temporary exhibitions: often focused on modern art and figurative painting.
• Green setting: situated in a quiet park, perfect for a stroll before or after your visit.

 

3. Musée Masséna – History and Belle Époque Elegance

The Musée Masséna, housed in a Belle Époque villa facing the sea, immerses visitors in the history of Nice from the French Revolution to the early 20th century. The museum combines historical heritage and decorative arts, offering a complete cultural experience.

Not to be missed:

• Collections: period furniture, historical objects, costumes, and old documents.
• Architecture: sumptuous villa with typical Belle Époque façades and interiors.
• Gardens: perfectly maintained French gardens, ideal for relaxing after your visit.
• Tip: Visit the museum early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the morning light for spectacular photos of the gardens and villa.

 

4. Palais Lascaris – Baroque Jewel and Rare Instruments

The Palais Lascaris, located in Old Nice, is an exceptional example of Baroque architecture. It houses an impressive collection of over 500 European musical instruments from the 16th to 19th centuries, offering a unique journey through the history of music.

What you will discover:

• Permanent collections: string, wind, and keyboard instruments.
• Historic monument: the palace itself, with its frescoes and monumental staircases, is a work of art.
• Temporary exhibitions: sometimes dedicated to Niçois composers or rare instruments.
• Bonus: Musical demonstrations are occasionally organized to let visitors hear these historic instruments in action.

 

5. Musée des Arts Asiatiques – A Journey to the Heart of the Orient

Located in Parc Phoenix, the Musée des Arts Asiatiques offers a fascinating dive into Asian art and culture. Collections include sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and everyday objects from China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia.

Highlights:

• Permanent collections: artworks from antiquity to the contemporary era.
• Thematic exhibitions: sometimes on Buddhism, Taoism, or Indian art.
• Setting: integrated into Parc Phoenix, this museum can be visited alongside a stroll in the gardens and tropical greenhouses.
• AMMI Hotels tip: Enjoy Parc Phoenix after your visit, ideal for families and nature lovers.

 

Practical Tips for Your Visits

• Accessibility: All museums are easily accessible from our AMMI hotels and aparthotels.
• Opening hours: Always check the days of closure and seasonal hours.
• Reservation: Some temporary exhibitions require online booking.
• Combine visits: Matisse and Chagall museums can be visited on the same day.

 

Stay at the Heart of Art and Culture with AMMI Hotels

By choosing AMMI Hotels, you enjoy a central location ideal for visiting the museums of Nice while benefiting from modern comfort and services. Staying in one of our hotels or aparthotels places you at the heart of this cultural richness. We will be delighted to advise you and help organize your visits to make your stay unforgettable.

Book your stay now at AMMI Hotels to enjoy the best museums in Nice!