Nice makes an ideal base for exploring the French Riviera.

Situated in France's sun-soaked southeast, Nice is the capital of the French Riviera.

Despite lacking the glamour of other Riviera destinations and its absense of sandy beaches, this Mediterranean playground is France's most visited city after Paris.

Nice's climate (mild winters and hot summers tempered by sea breezes) attracts a glut of retirees as well as water sports afficionados intent on sailing, water-skiing and windsurfing.

Nice's Château park is where to get some perspective on the city, with fine views over the roofs of the pedestrianised old town and down to the promenade des Anglais which follows the curve of the beach.

Nice has the highest number of museums and art galleries outside Paris, with the Matisse Museum, Chagall Museum, Asian Arts Museum, Fine Arts Museum, Modern and Contemporary Art Museum, Fine Arts Museum and Cimiez Monastery and Franciscan Museum all must-sees for art-lovers.

The Nice-Cote D'Azur international airport is located 6km west of the city and is serviced by approximately 45 airlines.