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Park · Nice, Provença-Alpes-Costa Azul
Colline du Château
Hill of the old castle of Nice, now a park with viewpoints over the baía dos Anjos, Vieux Nice and the harbor.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Colline du Château
The Colline du Château is the rocky hill that separates the old town from the port. On top there was a fortress used from the 11th to the 18th century, destroyed in 1706 by order of Louis XIV. Today there are ruins, gardens and shaded paths.
What brings people there is the view: on one side, the curve of the Promenade des Anglais and the roofs of Vieux Nice; on the other, Port Lympia, Nice’s harbor, with fishing boats, yachts and ochre-colored facades in the port quarter. There is also an artificial waterfall and the Château cemetery.
Every day, around noon, a cannon shot is fired from the top — actually a firework — that marks lunchtime in the city.
You can climb by stairways from Vieux Nice or from the end of the Promenade, or take an elevator near the Tour Bellanda.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the climb, the viewpoints and the descent.
Best time
Early in the morning or late afternoon, with softer light and less heat. In summer days bring water: the climb is on foot and includes sun-exposed sections.
How to get there
From Vieux Nice, the stairways start near the Place Garibaldi and rue Rossetti. On the seaside, the elevator is at the end of the Quai des États-Unis, next to the Tour Bellanda.
Tip
Descend on the harbor side to visit Port Lympia and return to the center along the waterfront. Check that the elevator is operating before you go.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Colline du Château
Do you have to pay to go up the Colline du Château?
Entrance to the park is free. The lift may have different rules; check locally.
Can you get up without using stairs?
Yes, there is a lift on the sea side, next to the Tour Bellanda. Check its operation before you go.
What is that noise at noon?
It's the noon cannon shot, a firework fired from the top of the hill every day, a city tradition.