Nice, France Travel Guide

***Please note that this Nice, France Travel Guide will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This travel guide was most recently updated as of May 2026.***

In March 2026, I decided a few weeks before my trip to France that I would go to Nice. Little did I know, I would fall in love with this incredible city in the South of France and the many towns that surround it! This Nice, France guide will walk you through the city’s history, what to know before you go, where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and more as you plan for your French Riviera adventure.

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting The Pink Chickadee.*

For more travel abroad inspiration, check out my exploring 50 Countries Expedition page.

Nice, France Guide

Table of Contents

Location

History

Where To Stay in Nice, France

Getting Around

What To Do in Nice, France

Where To Eat in Nice, France

Know Before You Go

Location

A city in the South of France about 930km from Paris, Nice is located on the Cote d’Azur aka the French Rivera in its Alps-Maritimes department near the border of Italy alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Nice acts as a central hub to nearby glamorous cities such as Cannes (where, yes, the Cannes Film Festival takes place!), Saint-Tropez (a luxurious yachting hub), and Monte Carlo, Monaco (which is one of the wealthiest countries in the world and a popular casino spot) – all of which are within an easy day trips’ reach. Given its geographic location and unique history (more on that in the next section!), Nice boasts English, Italian, and French influence and has an international presence within its population. Proudly, the people of Nice, France call Nice, France, the 5th most populous city in France, their home regardless of who they are, which is something I saw while visiting this gorgeous city. 

If traveling to Nice, France, the nearest airport is the Nice Cote D’Azur airport, which serves as a hub for the entire French Rivera and is an easy 10-15 minute drive/Uber ride from downtown as well as nearby spots. There are multiple seasonal direct flights to/from Nice Cote D’Azur airport during the Summer months on airlines such as United (such as my home base of Washington, DC) and several connecting flights from major European cities.

History

While Nice didn’t become a part of France until 1860 when it was handed over by the Treaty of Turin a year before the country of Italy was created and united into one, it has great pride in its French heritage and unique history before being a part of France to this very day. Nice’s earliest days of civilization date back to 400,000+ years ago, but as far as we know it was first established by the Phocaean Greeks as a trading post and then by the Roman Empire. For much of the Middle Ages, Nice was caught between competing powers, including those in Provence, Sardinia, and other Italian regions. During the 1700’s up until French annexation in 1860, Nice struggled to maintain its identity, as it was frequently captured by French and regional present-day Italian powers including a visit and and influences from Napoleon Bonaparte. During World War 2, Nice was a refuge for displaced foreigners, specifically Jews, and was liberated on August 30, 1944 when American troops entered the city. Today, Nice retains its pride in being a part of France, but also maintains Italian and specifically Sardinian influences given its history that makes Nice, Nice.

Dating back to the 1750s, Nice became a popular spot for wealthy English families to escape from the cold and enjoy the sunshine and coastlines. A fun fact is that during this era, doctors would prescribe English aristocrats with time in the South of France, due to the seasonal depression that came with frigid English winters. The popular Promenade des Anglais (‘the Walkway of the English’) alongside the coastline owes its name to Nice’s earliest visitors. Since its first English visitors, tourism remains a central part of Nice’s economy as well as the rest of the Cote D’Azur. 

For more information on Nice, France’s history, look no further than here.

Where To Stay in Nice, France

While there are several incredible hotels to stay at in Nice, I LOVED my stay at Pam Hotel – a California vintage-inspired hotel located nearby Old Nice and the Promenade des Anglais. Read my full review on Pam Hotel here.

 

Getting Around

While I mainly opted to use Uber and walk around when getting around in Nice, the city offers a vast public transit network via the Lignes D’Azur which offers easy access to other sights within the French Riviera, including Monte Carlo, Monaco. Check out this guide on public transportation in Nice, France. When it comes to Uber fares, Ubers on average will run you typically under 30 Euros each way to/from nearby towns including Monaco. The Uber app will work in France like it does in the United States and Canada. If you’re interested in visiting other nearby towns in a guided group setting, then look no further than my guide on day trips from Nice, France.

What To Do in Nice, France

Seaside strolls, cobblestone street strolls, and panoramic strolls, OH MY! When looking for what to do in Nice, France, there are seriously SOOOOO many opportunities to enjoy and take in some scenic views and stroll. And, beyond savoring a stroll (which I highly recommend doing every day when in Nice!), there are several things to do in Nice. Look no further than GetYourGuide to book some fun and unique activities in Nice and around the French Riviera. 

Stroll the Promenade des Anglais – A promenade along the Mediterranean coastline extending about 7 kilometers from the Nice airport, the Promenade des Anglais, as previously mentioned, boasts several seaside views while paying tribute to its earliest visitors: the English. Be sure to stroll the Promenade des Anglais during multiple times of the day, including at 10am-12pm and especially during golden hour and sunset. If you’re an early riser, then be sure to catch the sunrise. While strolling, be sure to snap a photo in front of the iconic #ILoveNice sign!

 

Take a guided walking tour of Nice – One of my favorite activities that I booked while in Nice was a guided walking tour of the city, including the charming Viuex Nice aka Old Town Nice. I ended up being the only person in my tour group and had pretty much a private guided tour, which was wonderful! Truly, I enjoyed my guided walking tour of Nice, as it was an excellent way to get acclimated to the city, its history, and its many sights to see. Book your guided walking tour of Nice here.

Get some Vitamin D on the via strolling Promenade des Anglais & enjoy the views in one of the iconic blue chairs – In addition to strolling the Promenade des Anglais, one of the best and free ways to do so is to enjoy some seaside views in one of the several iconic blue chairs that lines the Promenade. These blue chairs are loved and enjoyed by visitors from all across the world and locals, alike. Read more about the story of the Promenade’s blue chairs here. 

Catch a scenic view at Castle Hill – A lush 95-meter-high hilltop park, Castle Hill offers panoramic city and seaside views. Castle Hill is completely free to visit and can be accessed by lift/elevator or by hiking the windy paths and staircases around town. Be sure to pack some snacks, water, and your camera. You’ll want to savor the moment (and views!). Several walking tours offer a stop at Castle Hill or are exclusively walking tours to Castle Hill. Book your walking tour of Nice including Castle Hill here and book your walking tour of Castle Hill only here. 

Stroll the streets and shops of Vieux Nice – Vieux Nice is the city’s Old Town, known for its enchanting narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, as well as local shops, markets, cafes, and restaurants. This is indeed the perfect place to simply get lost and take in the moment, as you’ll get captivated by the cathedrals, squares, and everything in between. Many of the shops and restaurants I supported were located in this vibrant part of the city! Truly, you won’t want to leave this unique and historic city section. 

Take a sightseeing cruise to Villefranche Bay – Villefranche Bay is one of the deepest harbors in all of the Mediterranean and is located between Nice and Monaco on the French Riviera. It boasts turquoise waters, cliff side views, and colorful buildings. Several sightseeing cruises dock in/out of Nice, France for about an hour at a time, offering the perfect opportunity to catch some seaside views, enjoy the sunshine, and simply take it all in. It is worth noting that many sightseeing cruises do offer refreshments on board at an additional cost via a cash-only bar. Book your sightseeing cruise to Villefranche Bay here.

Support local vendors at the Marche aux Fleurs at Cours Saleya – Located in Vieux Nice, the Marche aux Fleurs at Cours Saleya is a flower market that dates back to 1897 when growers in the hills would bring their freshly cut flowers into town to sell and is the first wholesale flower market in the world. Visitors can also grab locally made fruits, vegetables, olive oil, soaps, and other locally made goods and even souvenirs. The hours are as follows: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 6.00-17.30, Wednesday and Saturday 6.30-18.30.  Sunday 6.30-13.30, and closed Mondays. For more information on visiting Marche aux Fleurs at Cours Saleya, then check out this excellent resource to plan your visit. 

Browse & shop local vendors at the Marché à la brocante antique market at Cours Saleya (Mondays only) – Every Monday at Cours Saleya, Marche aux Fleurs transforms into the Marché à la brocante: an antique and flea market. Goods range from antiques of all kinds to vintage designer clothing, leather, and handbags. It is worth noting that vendors at this popular antique and flea market may only accept cash. For more information on visiting Marché à la brocante at Cours Saleya, then check out this excellent resource to plan your visit. 

Embark on a day trip (or a few!) to nearby towns – There are several including day trips that you can take from Nice, France along the French Riviera. Whether you decide to go to nearby French towns such as to do perfume making and explore the hilltop village of Eze, to take in cobblestone streets and artwork in the seaside Town known for the Picasso Museum of Antibes, or cross international borders to visit Monte Carlo, Monaco, there are truly SOOOO many things to do and places to see without leaving the region of Provence and the French Riviera! Check out my day trips from Nice, France guide here.

Eze, France
Antibes, France

Where To Eat in Nice, France

When looking for where to eat in Nice, France, there are SOOO many incredible spots to choose from. While in the airport on the way there, the best advice I got about where to eat in Nice is that you will simply stumble upon so many delicious spots – many of which are locally owned and unique to the area.

Enjoy a meal of a lifetime on a cliff at Le Plongeoir (60 Bd Franck Pilatte) – Le Plongeoir Nice is a well-acclaimed and well-known cliff side restaurant along the Mediterranean. Personally, I enjoyed one of the best meals of my life at Le Plongeoir!! It is worth noting that reservations must be made in advance to dine at Le Plongeoir. For more information on dining at Le Plongeoir, check out my detailed review and recap of my experience dining at this notable spot here. 

Grab a drink and California-style eats at Pamela’s Bar & Restaurant (26 Rue Smolett) – Located within Pam Hotel (check out my review on staying there here) aka a hotel known for its vintage, California-dreaming vibes, Pamela’s Bar & Restaurant brings those vibes to life with its Californian cuisine that’ll keep you California dreaming! 

Savor a glass of wine at the unique Bay Side Wine Bar (32 Rue de France) – A wine bar with a vast array of wines, beers, cocktails, and charcuterie options, Bay Side offers happy hour, live music, and an elevated ambience. 

Le 1913 (37 Prom. des Anglais) – When in Nice, you’ll want to grab a drink and a small bite in one of the luxurious Le Negresco Hotel’s bars: Le 1913. Le 1913 is in an elegant and opulent environment which honors Le Negresco’s unique history as a hotel as well as the history of Nice, while evoking the discreet allure of English clubs. Check out Hotel Le Negresco’s additional dining options here.

Enjoy a beachfront meal at Plage Beau Rivage (107 Quai des États-Unis) – Located on the beach of the Promenade des Anglais, Plage Beau Rivage offers refined cuisine made from fresh and local seasonal ingredients in a relaxed seafront setting.

Grab a bite of pizza at Milo’s Pizza (Multiple locations) – Offering affordable pizza delights with excellent and friendly service, Milo’s Pizza is an excellent spot to grab a Mediterranean-inspired bite of pizza at any hour of the day (or night).

Take in cathedral views and savor Italian cuisine in the heart of Old Town at Restaurant la Claire Fontaine (Pl. Rossetti) – Centered in the middle of all the action within a town square in Vieux Nice, Restaurant La Claire Fontaine offers exquisite Italian cuisine and views.

Enjoy the vibrant music and delicious bites at Les Copains (8 Rue Lascaris) – Whether you dine solo or with others, you’ll be sure to leave as a friend as Les Copains: a cozy restaurant celebrating classic French flavors with a few twists.  

Look out over the harbor and enjoy delicious eats at La Vigna (1 Quai des Deux Emmanuels) – An elegant restaurant, La Vigna offers classic French dishes boasting panoramic harborside views.

Grab a bite of gelato at Gelateria Garibaldi (54 Avenue de la République) – Just a few steps away from Garibaldi Square, Gelateria Garibaldi brings a variety of rotating and traditional gelato flavors made with locally-sourced and fresh ingredients. 

Have the ultimate girl dinner (or just a glass of wine/cocktail!) at Pompette (2 Rue Bonaparte) – Pompette is an adorable wine bar with a list of wines, cocktails, and small plates (including charcuterie!). 

Savor a sweet treat at the adorable Angea ( 6 Rue de la Poissonnerie) – Specializing in macarons, pastries, ice cream, coffee, and tea, Angea brings it all in the most adorable and girly setting – all dolled up in all-things pretty and pink!

Overlook a beautiful Old Town square and enjoy local delicacies at Bozzi (12 Rue Alexandre Mari) – Bozzi is across from the Palais de Justice in Vieux Nice and has several indoor and outdoor dining options – all of which allow guests to savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy the good vibes and a great cocktail at Vibes (22 Rue Francois Guisol) – Come for the drinks, stay for the vibes at Vibes Cocktail Bar which boasts live music, a daily rotating cocktail menu, and small plates.

Indulge in local French cuisine at Jadis (24 Rue François Guisol) – Jadis is a bistro and wine bar in an elevated and elegant setting offering all-things French cuisine and wine. 

Know Before You Go

Before you take off for Nice, France, these are a few things to keep in mind:

  • French is the common language spoken in Nice, however, lots of locals speak English
  • The common currency used is the Euro
  • Cards and Apple Pay are widely accepted across Nice and the French Riviera
  • If you do use cash abroad, be sure to only withdraw cash from an ATM inside a bank in order to reduce credit card fraud

Wrap-Up

This Nice, France guide gives you a glimpse into all that this amazing city in the South of France has to offer. From traditional French cuisine, a distinct history with French and Italian influence, and beautiful seaside views at every corner, Nice truly has something for everyone!

XOXO – Katie <3 

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The Best Day Trips From Nice, France

***Please note that this The Best Day Trips From Nice, France guide will be updated and recirculated periodically. This post has most recently been updated as of April 2026.***

One of the most unique things about Nice, France is that you have easy access not only to some incredible places in France but also in two other countries: Monaco and Italy. When deciding which are the best day trips from Nice, it is tough to narrow down which day trips to take given that there’s tons to do and see within the French Rivera. This travel guide will map you through the best day trips from Nice, France and help you decide where to go while in the French Rivera. Spoiler: it will be tough to decide which day trips to take!

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more travel abroad inspiration, check out my exploring 50 Countries Expedition page.

The Best Day Trips From Nice, France 

Table of Contents 

How & Where To Book

The Best Day Trips From Nice, France

How & Where To Book

If you’re considering booking a group tour aka some of the best day trips from Nice, then I highly recommend downloading the GetYourGuide app on your phone to help you select which day trip(s) make the most sense for you. That way, you’re able to see which tour operators have availability on the days that work for you given your group’s interests and preferences.

If you’re not interested in group tours or traveling in the off-season when group tours may be limited (like it was for me!) or looking for a more cost-effective option, then I highly recommend taking the train or using rideshares such as Uber. 

Towns Near Nice, France

Antibes, France – Known for the Picasso Museum housed in the Chateau Grimaldi, Antibes is a charming coastal Old Town between Cannes and Nice that has a bustling night life.

Cannes, France – A resort town well-known for its dazzling iconic Cannes Film Festival and the red carpet that celebrities have walked (and visitors can walk, too!), Cannes also has beautiful sandy beaches, Boutiques, and luxurious hotels.

Eze, France – A hilltop medieval village on the coastline that is truly a fairy tale dream come to life, Eze is nestled between Nice and Monte Carlo. While in Eze, be sure to check out the Fragonard Perfume Factory, where you can tour the factory, make your own perfume, and take some perfume back home with you. 

Menton, France – A colorful and hilly medieval town in the southeastern French Rivera, Menton is known for Basilique Saint-Michel, complete with an 18th century bell tower, and the ornate facade of La Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs. 

Monte Carlo, Monaco – Celebrated for luxury tourism, high-stakes casinos, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monte Carlo was established in the 1800s to boast Monaco’s economy which is situated on the French Rivera. It is worth noting that Ubers and taxis cannot pick up in Monte Carlo, but can drop off.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France – A beautiful resort town nestled in the French Rivera known for its expensive real estate and beaches. Be sure to check out the town’s notable pink palace aka Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Gardens which offers beautiful seaside views. 

Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France – One of the most well-preserved villages on the French Rivera, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is known as an “artist’s village,” given that it has hosted the likes of Chagall, Matisse, and Picasso. 

Saint-Tropez, France – Once a fishing village, Saint-Tropez has since in the 1960’s become a popular international Jetsetter hot spot with its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. Whilst, at the same time, the heart and soul of Saint-Tropez’s heritage as a fishing village is still preserved with its cobblestone streets.

Ventimiglia, Italy – An Italian resort town just near the French-Italian border, Ventimiglia is a colorful medieval coastal town within easy reach to Nice, France and the rest of the French Rivera.

Verdon Gorge, France – Within Verdon Natural Regional Park, Verdon Gorge is a river canyon near the French Rivera carved by the Verdon River with white water rapids and cliffs. 

Villefranche-sur-Mer, France – A seaside resort town located just east of Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer offers a slower paced lifestyle to the hustle of nearby Nice offering sandy beaches, pastel-colored buildings, and a picturesque harbor. 

The Best Day Trips From Nice, France

Please note that these day trips are group tours and typically combine multiple towns and points of interest, given that they are easy to see and combine into one day trip. If you want more time in one destination, then it is suggested to take public transit or Uber there.

Wrap-Up

It is SOOOO hard to decide on where to go on a day trip from Nice, France, whether you’re there for a few days or a few weeks. The best day trips from Nice are truly what best matches your interests, budget, and sightseeing goals. Truly, your trip and day trips from Nice are what YOU make of it. 

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Favorite Trips Abroad

Today’s blog post is more of a blast from the past! As I am *finally* starting to travel again like many of us are as well, it’s fun to look back on some of my many international travels pre-COVID-19. I feel very fortunate and blessed that I was able to travel vastly and wide when it was safe to and am looking forward to when it is safe to too. In college, I traveled to Canada, England, Scotland, Italy, The Vatican, France, Bulgaria, Belize, and Greece via study abroad and travel. Today, I will be sharing a photo flashback diary of some of my many adventures abroad! Bon Voyage!!!

The London Eye, London, England
The Acropolis, Athens, Greece
Caye Caulker, Belize
Palace of Versailles Gardens, Versailles, France
The Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy
The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Verona, Italy
Wicked – West End, London, England
Kinky Boots – West End, London, England
Teteven, Bulgaria
Sansepolcro, Tuscany, Italy
Anghiari, Tuscany, Italy
Windsor Castle, Windsor, England
Edinburgh, Scotland
Juliet’s House, Verona, Italy
The Royal Pavilion, Brighton, England
Lucca, Italy
Sofia, Bulgaria
Westminster Abbey, London, England
Hydra, Greece
Sansepolcro, Tuscany, Italy
The Belize Zoo, Belize
Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada
Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy
Tower Bridge, London, England
River Thames, London, England
Anghiari, Tuscany, Italy
The Louvre, Paris, France
Rila, Bulgaria
Athens, Greece
The Highlands, Scotland
Verona, Italy
Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada
Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford Upon Avon, England
My Hotel Room Balcony, Paris, France
Galileo Museum, Florence, Italy
Borghese Gallery, Rome, Italy
The Roman Baths, Bath, England
Loch Lomond, Scotland
Vitosha, Bulgaria
The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

XOXO – Katie <3

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2 Years After Studying Abroad in 3 Countries

Fun fact: in college, I won the class superlative for “Mostly Likely to Talk About her Study Abroad Experience”! As someone who has LOVED her study abroad experiences in college, I am proud to be able to talk about and share the good in studying abroad. In fact, I did study abroad in three different countries while in college: Italy in June 2018, England in July 2018, and Belize in June 2019. If you know me in real life and especially on my college’s campus when I was a student there, then you know that my study abroad experiences have shaped me into the person that I am today. My moments studying abroad remind me of who I was before I left to go abroad and the woman that I have become and will become.

If you follow me on my social media, then you probably know that I LOVED my travel experiences over the few years prior to COVID-19. Indeed, I loved those experiences OH SO MUCH that I shared some of my many memories from my study abroad and even travel abroad and stateside experiences on my Instagram Stories on that day that I was there just years later. Yes, my study abroad and travel and even stateside travel experiences have been formative experiences for me, but they also ignited my personal passion and lifelong investment in travel.

I am one to believe that travel does not have to be a trip where you hop in your car or on a plane and spend 1+ hour in travel mode. You can, indeed, check out the nearby park in your neighborhood or the next town over to get a great experience, too. For example, my college town of Raleigh, North Carolina is a much different city than my current hometown of Washington, DC. Raleigh has a warm, Southern culture, meanwhile, Washington, DC has a big city and a hustle and bustle feel to it. In the case of both of these cities, if you drive 30 minutes out, then you will get a totally new, fresh, and different feel in the cultures, looks of the towns, and things to do. Both of those cities allow for day trips that can bring about personal learning and growth without spending a fortune to go far away. This same idea goes for your own hometown, too! Trust me, I will say this and I will say it again: EXPLORE WHERE YOU LIVE!!!!

Now, you may be wondering, what did I do when I studied abroad and where exactly in Italy, England, and Belize did I reside?! Well, in Italy, I studied abroad in the small Tuscan town of Sansepolcro – it is about an hour outside of Arezzo and 90 minutes outside of Florence. As cliche as it sounds, while in England, I studied abroad in London – the capital city of both England and the United Kingdom. And, in Belize, I studied abroad in San Ignacio the capital of the rainforest region in Belize known as Cayo. It is a smaller sized town in relative to many many cities and towns that I have visited in the past, yet it is a mighty hub in Cayo and Belize as a whole. I also visited Scotland, The Vatican, and France as well as various cities in Italy, England, and Belize. Each of these places are very contrasting amongst one another, which makes it a great fit for learning, growing, and engaging within another culture.

Besides engaging with other cultures, study abroad brought me a whole new perspective onto life. I was pushed beyond my limits in several ways, which I think was a blessing in disguise. The only way that you grow and expand your limits is to push yourself, and study abroad presented me with that opportunity. Similarly, I was presented with the opportunity to utilize my problem-solving skills on the spot, which, in fact, help me in my everyday life in my job as a data scientist and in everyday situations. Case in point, a few weeks before I left for Italy, I was visiting my friend in Philadelphia and ended up putting my credit card into a machine to get a train ticket that ended up being broken. The card got stuck and I ended up in a panic crying outside of the train station for a good 15 minutes. I figured out a solution, but it took some time. However, in the past few days, I can problem solve literally on the spot. And, I can thank study abroad for those experiences and that newfound gift that I have.

I also experienced a newfound sense of pride and independence since studying abroad. I used to be afraid to do things alone. I was uncomfortable with the idea of doing things by myself. A lot of other people are and maybe some of y’all are too. Don’t worry – we ALL have been there! But, study abroad pushed me to be able to be comfortable doing things on my own and navigate a brand-new place on my own. It has been super rewarding to be able to have that comfort and peace of mind knowing that I can do it all on my own. Personally, I probably would not have made the move to Washington, DC if it wasn’t for study abroad!

Overall, study abroad has been able to open my mind up to this extraordinary world that we all live in. My experiences studying abroad help me to this day in my day to day life and I am grateful for that.

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XOXO – Katie <3

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I Lived in London for a Month

Cheerio! As highly requested on my Instagram story survey a few weeks ago, many of y’all wanted to hear my experiences studying abroad. I have been lucky enough to study abroad in 3 different cities in 3 different countries: Sansepolcro, Italy (a small town in Tuscany), London, England, United Kingdom, and San Ignacio, Belize (a town in the rainforest region of Belize). Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing my experiences studying abroad in each country, along with some advice that is specific to each place. It is important to note that each of these study abroad programs were done through my school – Meredith College. Today, I will be sharing my study abroad experiences in London, England, United Kingdom.

When I was 12, I dreamed that I lived in an apartment right across the street from Big Ben. As cheesy as it sounds, even as a college student, I really wanted to live out my dream of living in London, even if it was temporary. Luckily for myself, that dream of mine came true in the summer of 2018 when I studied abroad for a month in London.

My Home: Heythrop College

While in London, my classmates, faculty, and I stayed at Heythrop College. Heythrop College is located in Kensington Square, right by the famous Kensington Palace where Prince William and Kate Middleton reside. When I was living there, there were several other programs with students from all across the world besides my Meredith classmates, faculty, and I. Although we did not really interact much with those outside of Meredith at Heythrop, it was still super cool to be in an environment with others from all across the globe. Since Heythrop hosts numerous programs, the rooms were essentially dorm style with a dining hall for breakfast and lunch where they served more traditional British cuisines. In England, dorm rooms consist of a private tiny single bedroom with a bathroom and shared shower. Living at Heythrop definitely allowed me to truly live out the British culture and way of life.

Heythrop College is located right by the High Street Kensington Tube station. The Tube is essentially the name for London’s underground subway system, which I took EVERYWHERE, in order to get around. Taking the Tube all across London truly showed me the city way of life, which I enjoyed. Besides enjoying the London way of life through taking the Tube, I gained a much greater sense of independence that I did not have before. I felt super free and able to go wherever I liked, through living at Heythrop College in a central location of London.

Courses I Took

One of the most important things about studying abroad is that you are there to STUDY. Meredith’s Office of International Programs staff member Liz ALWAYS emphasizes how study abroad is NOT a trip or vacation as you are there to study. Liz’s emphasis on study abroad as a time to study and learn and grow as an individual in a brand-new culture is extremely important to myself as well. Study abroad is a time for nothing other than self growth while having an educational experience in a brand-new country and culture. Personally, I find this very important to remember. While study abroad is exciting and may feel like a trip/vacation, it is anything BUT that.

The first of the two courses that I took while studying abroad in London was an Arts and Artifacts course that was specific to London as well as British life and culture. My professor Dr. Rodgers who has taught this course to Meredith students for years in London really prides on teaching about the diverse and lively life that the city has to offer. For example, as apart of this course we were all required to attend London’s Pride event over a weekend, which was an AMAZING and such a beautiful experience! Dr. Rodgers also had us visit several different sites in London, which made it such an incentive to truly explore the city as well as other parts of the United Kingdom. Besides exploring London, one of my favorite parts of this course was getting to learn from some Meredith alumni who actually moved to England after graduation. That experience of mine showed me the special connection that these alumni had to Meredith, Dr. Rodgers, and the study abroad program that I went on. Taking Arts & Artifacts London edition was most definitely an experience like no other, as it truly took me out of my shell!

Secondly, I took Shakespeare’s London with one of my favorite professors Dr. Walton. Dr. Walton has a passion for Shakespeare’s plays and performances, which is truly shown in all of his work and even simply having a conversation with him. While taking Shakespeare’s London, Dr. Walton had my classmates and I read and watch live productions of five different plays written by William Shakespeare: Hamlet, As You Like It, Romeo & Juliet, The Tempest, and Othello. Getting to watch Shakespeare’s performances was such an awesome experience. My classmates and I actually saw two plays at Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, which is a re-built version of the original Globe theatre. At the same time, Dr. Walton showed us how several variations of one play can take place. Since Shakespeare’s play scripts have remained the same over the years, people have created their own versions of his iconic plays with casting, props, and costumes to make it original and such a neat contrast to watch. Taking Shakespeare’s London definitely allowed me to learn more about Dr. Walton’s passion for Shakespeare, which truly ignited my own love for the English play writer.

Life In London

My typical day in London consisted of classes in the morning, lunch, and then off to explore the city. Usually, the evening was filled with dinner and a show of some sorts (more on what I did and saw in the next sessions!!!). Everyday was different than the next, which I truly LOVED!! Since there is so much to see in London, I barely got any sleep while there. However, I did get to truly see a ton of London, so it worked out for the better 🙂

Sights I Saw

Big Ben, Parliament, and the London Eye OH MY! As apart of my Arts & Artifacts course and just solely being in London amongst several sites to see, I got to tour A BUNCH of the monumental places in the city. My friend Kaylee and I made a list and checked it twice for what we wanted to see and do before we even left. One of the places that we both REALLY wanted to see was Buckingham Palace. Buckingham Palace only opens to the public for a few weeks out of the year when Queen Elizabeth travels to Scotland for her summer retreat. Both of us could not pass up the opportunity to go, so we went! Along with Buckingham Palace, I also got to see several more sites in London both with my study abroad group and with friends and myself. I have all of them that I can remember listed below!

  • Kensington Palace (including the Princess Diana fashion exhibit!)
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Parliament
  • Westminster Abbey
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral
  • Shakespeare’s Globe
  • Harrod’s
  • Fortnum & Mason tea shop (the tea endorsed by Queen Elizabeth herself!)
  • The British Museum
  • The National Gallery of Art
  • Tower of London
  • Big Ben
  • The London Eye
  • Tower Bridge (what we refer to as London Bridge)
  • London Bridge
  • Chinatown
  • The Victoria & Albert Museum
  • ZSL London Zoo
  • Hyde Park
  • London Pride
  • Holland Park
  • Kensington Gardens

Shows I Saw

One of my favorite parts of studying abroad in London was getting to see shows all across the city. Unlike New York City’s Broadway, London’s performances are at a much more affordable rate for an entire family to enjoy and see together. One of my favorite memories was getting to see Mamma Mia! live and meet the cast afterwards. The same goes for practically every other show that I saw as well, which are listed below:

  • Dream Girls
  • Hamlet
  • The Merchant of Venice
  • Kinky Boots
  • The Lion King
  • Mousetrap
  • The Woman in Black
  • As You Like It (saw once at Shakespeare’s Globe and another at an outdoor theatre!)
  • Romeo & Juliet
  • A Monster Calls
  • Wicked
  • The Tempest
  • Othello
  • Mamma Mia!

Getting see each of these performances really ignited my passion for the performing arts even more than it was before. Moreover, knowing that I saw each of these shows in London truly makes me feel grateful knowing the current times with Covid-19 and how they have affected the theatre industry globally. My hope is to most definitely go back to London and see more performances someday 🙂

Excursions

Besides London, I was very lucky that I got to explore a few different places in England. These include: Brighton, Stratford Upon Avon, Bath, and Windsor. While most of them were done with my classmates and professors as a group, it was still super fun to get to explore and see new places in England. Each of these excursions taught me different things about British life and culture as well as allowed me to see England beyond the big city of London.

Brighton was the first of these excursions and the one that I did not take with all of my classmates and professors. I went with Dr. Walton, my friend Kaylee, and one of our other friends. Brighton is a notable coastal hub in England. While there, we toured the notable Royal Pavilion and got fish n’ chips at a seaside pub while also admiring the English coast along the British Channel and the gorgeous streets. Like Charleston, South Carolina, Brighton also has very colorful buildings that became an obsession of mine! At the same time, we joined Dr. Walton to see William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice at an outdoor play area. Going to Brighton was definitely a really great experience, as I got to bond with some of my friends while studying abroad as well as Dr. Walton.

Stratford Upon Avon is the home of William Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Coincidentally, we all toured Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home. The streets there are super adorable and filled with shops with so much merchandise *it was dangerous on my wallet let me tell you* . In addition to exploring the downtown, my group and I also saw Romeo & Juliet at the Shakespeare playhouse in town, as apart of our Shakespeare’s London course. I definitely hope to go back and explore this sweet, adorable town much more in the future!

As implied in its name, Bath is known for its site of ancient Roman baths. With it being the most notable site in town, my classmates and I each toured the ancient Roman baths as apart of our Arts & Artifacts course. While there, I learned about fashion during the Roman Empire as well as Roman Empire life and culture. Along with exploring the ancient Roman baths, I also went to the Jane Austen House and Museum, as she lived in Bath for some time, where I got to dress up as if I was living in the 18th century when Austen was living and writing her books. Lastly, my study abroad group and I went to have tea with a former Meredith professor and her husband at their house in Bath. All in all, my experience in Bath was most definitely one for the books!

My favorite of all of the excursions most definitely had to be Windsor, England. Windsor is known for Windsor Castle, which is one of Queen Elizabeth’s residences. It is also where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married in May 2018. Growing up, I used to read my dad’s travel books, which included a book on Windsor Castle where he would go sometimes for business trips. Since then, I knew that I needed to visit Windsor, especially after Harry and Meghan got married there! After touring Windsor Castle and its several shops where I also did a lot of wallet damage, my friends and I went to the Prince Harry Pub and got some fish n’ chips. It was an amazing way to end an amazing day in Windsor!

Travel Breaks

Most Meredith College study abroad programs allow for independent travel breaks. On these independent travel breaks, students can travel to different cities and even countries (depending on the program) on their own. Personally, I saw independent travel breaks as a way for me to become more strong and independent as I navigate a brand-new place. While in London, I got to visit Edinburgh, Scotland and the Scottish Highlands on my first travel break and Paris, France and Giverny, France on my second travel break, which you can see my post on that experience of mine here! While I will not get into my travel breaks very much in this post (I feel that they are each better served in their own post as I have SO much to say about each), I will say that each of these experiences was extremely neat, fun, and rewarding!

Most Meredith College study abroad programs allow for independent travel breaks. On these independent travel breaks, students can travel to different cities and even countries (depending on the program) on their own. Personally, I saw independent travel breaks as a way for me to become more strong and independent as I navigate a brand-new place. While in London, I got to visit Edinburgh, Scotland and the Scottish Highlands on my first travel break and Paris, France and Giverny, France on my second travel break, which you can see my post on that experience of mine here! While I will not get into my travel breaks very much in this post (I feel that they are each better served in their own post as I have SO much to say about each), I will say that each of these experiences was extremely neat, fun, and rewarding!

Getting to study abroad in London was most definitely a dream come true! From my days of dreaming of living there as a little girl to getting to, I knew that I totally hit the jackpot! While I am extremely lucky that I was able to even go to England, I know that so many have not. That being said, I want to utilize my study abroad experiences in England and beyond to share with and empower others to go out and see the world while also learning about it. Wherever this world may take us, being able to learn about the various cultures and history that different places have to offer is extremely valuable. Not only does getting to travel somewhere brand-new help us to expand our minds, but it also helps us to grow into the strong and independent people that we are meant to be.

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