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Square · Nice, Provença-Alpes-Costa Azul
Place Masséna
Nice’s central square, with red-ochre buildings, a checkerboard pavement, the Fontaine du Soleil and the illuminated statues by Jaume Plensa.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Place Masséna
Place Masséna is Nice's meeting point, between the new town and Vieux Nice. The surrounding buildings, with arcades and ochre-red facades, follow a design from the early 19th century, inspired by the cities of Piemonte.
The black-and-white checkerboard pavement, the Fontaine du Soleil with the statue of Apolo, and the work Conversation à Nice by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa create the setting. There are seven seated figures atop masts that light up and change color at night.
From here depart the avenida Jean-Médecin, the city's shopping street, and the Promenade du Paillon, a linear park with a reflecting pool and fountains that follows the former bed of the river Paillon. The tram crosses the square. In February, the square hosts part of the parades of the Carnaval de Nice.
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
About half an hour to the square; more time if you continue along the Promenade du Paillon.
Best time
In the evening, when Plensa's statues are lit. During the day, it's a natural passage between the center, the beach and Vieux Nice.
How to get there
Masséna tram stop. On foot, it's about a 15-minute walk from Gare de Nice-Ville via avenida Jean-Médecin.
Tip
During the Carnaval de Nice (February), part of the square becomes a parade area with stands and tickets; check the schedule in advance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Place Masséna
What are the statues on top of the masts?
It's the work Conversation à Nice by Jaume Plensa: seven seated figures that light up and change color at night.
Where does the Nice Carnival take place?
The February parades take over Place Masséna and the Promenade des Anglais, with ticketed areas; check the schedule.
Is the square near the beach?
Yes, the Promenade des Anglais is a few minutes' walk away, across the Jardins Albert-Ier.