Cimiez Monastery — Attraction in Nice

The monastery itself has a beautiful exterior, and the inside is incredibly ornate. I was the first one there around 8am and was surprised it was open. No one else was there, and it was a very nice experience. It's a bit dark on the inside, and no pictures are allowed, but it is still quite beautiful.

My favorite part was actually the gardens. When you walk in toward the back left, there are magnificent vistas that present great photo ops. The adjoining cemetery is also quite decadent, with every person having his or her own mausoleum in lieu of a traditional headstone. Make sure to check out Henri Matisse's grave while you're there!

That being said, it is a bit out of the way. If you're already venturing into Cimiez to check out the Matisse museum then it's no extra effort, but otherwise it may not be worth exploring if you are on a tight schedule. I intended to visit the monastery's museum also, but unfortunately it is closed from the 8th to the 25th of August 2022. Bummer.

Still, for an extra hour (not counting transportation), you can visit the monastery, see the museum, take a stroll in the gardens, and check out the cemetery that is home to Henri Matisse. Definitely worth it if you aren't otherwise...

Not being immediately in the city of Nice, it takes a little bit of time to make the journey up to Cimiez. At a stretch, it is walkable, but public transport is probably the better option. With very little light inside, it's tough to see too much and also no photographs allowed. The paintwork looks like it could really do with some restoration, although if you can't see the detail, then I guess perhaps no-one is likely to bother. I wouldn't visit just for the church here, and actually didn't even notice there was a museum. However, a trip up here could be combined with the gardens, the Matisse Museum and the Archaeological Museum to justify the time spent...

Visiting the Monastère de Cimiez was like stepping into another time. Perched quietly above Nice, it offers breathtaking views over the city and the sea, but what makes it truly special is the feeling of peace that surrounds the whole place.

The gardens are beautifully kept — full of flowers, olive trees, and gentle light — perfect for a calm walk or a moment of reflection. The monastery itself is small but filled with charm and history, and the adjoining church holds lovely frescoes and a tranquil atmosphere that instantly soothes you.

It’s also a wonderful spot to combine with the nearby Matisse Museum — both places share the same quiet,...