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What to Wear in Nice This Winter

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Got a winter trip planned to Nice, France? Nice can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 56°F (that's 13°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Nice, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Nice in winter—whether you're people watching on the Promenade des Anglais, exploring the Old Town, visiting the Matisse Museum, or strolling through Parc Phoenix.

What to wear for a winter trip to Nice

What should women wear in Nice in winter?

Nice in winter is generally cool, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: sweaters, warm coat, jeans, long-sleeved shirts, and lightweight comfortable shoes. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Nice has to offer.

Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Nice. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

Warm coat

A good coat will keep you warm in inclement weather and can also be a stylish addition to your travel wardrobe. When choosing a coat, look for one that is made from insulating materials such as wool or down (or synthetic equivalents). A hood is also a helpful feature, as it will protect your head and face from the elements. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, make sure to choose a coat that is waterproof and windproof.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Nice, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Nice, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

I found these which would all work great:

Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Nice? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

What should men wear in Nice in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: collared shirts, cardigans, loafers or dress shoes, jeans or khakis, and warm coat. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Nice in comfort and style.

Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Nice in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Here are some of my favorites:

Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

I found these which would all work great:

Warm coat

A good coat will keep you warm in inclement weather and can also be a stylish addition to your travel wardrobe. When choosing a coat, look for one that is made from insulating materials such as wool or down (or synthetic equivalents). A hood is also a helpful feature, as it will protect your head and face from the elements. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, make sure to choose a coat that is waterproof and windproof.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

FAQs

Is winter a good time to go to Nice, France?

In general, Nice experiences fairly mild weather during the winter months, making it a good time to visit for those who don't mind a little chill in the air. Crowds will be much smaller and there are still a variety of winter activities to enjoy.

How do people typically dress in Nice, France in winter?

People in Nice dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many winter outfits you will see in Nice typically include jackets, sweaters, and sneakers.

What should you NOT wear in Nice, France in winter?

There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Nice. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Nice will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Nice has to offer!