So, you’re thinking of vacationing in Nice. Lazy beach days on the French Riviera, alfresco meals in the sun, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing to be done – it all sounds so idyllic. But that’s exactly what 5 million other people who descend upon Nice each year think. Looking for ways to avoid crowds? You’ve come to the right place. Our travel experts at Plum Guide have all the tips and tricks to help you discover a more tranquil side to the city, including the overcrowded areas to avoid in Nice. Here’s how to enjoy a more authentic experience in this sun-kissed part of France.

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Thanks to its idyllic location on France’s southeast coast, Nice enjoys warm and sunny weather in the summer, with mild and cool winters. While summer is the best time to visit, it also brings masses of holidaymakers that flock to Nice’s sun-soaked beaches. If you don’t fancy waking up early to bag a spot on the sun loungers or queuing for an hour to get a table, we recommend skipping the months of June, July and August.

Instead, try visiting in spring. It’s warm enough to sunbathe and dine alfresco, with just a few visitors. In March, one of the French Riviera’s most anticipated celebrations takes place in nearby Menton. La Fête du Citron celebrates the harvest of lemons and other citrus fruits. In April, days get even warmer, perfect for Avril aux Jardins ('April in the Gardens'). Taking place in Jardin Albert 1er, this month-long event offers a range of workshops, performances and artisan stalls to check out.

Meanwhile, in May, La Fête des Mai celebrates the arrival of spring with food stalls, family-friendly activities, games and traditional dancing. It’s also the best time for star-spotting, with easy day trips to Monaco for the Grand Prix or to the Cannes International Film Festival.

Autumn is also a great time to visit, as the weather remains warm and it’s not too touristy anymore. In September, many of Nice’s museums, art galleries and churches open their doors as part of European Heritage Days, so it’s one of the best months for culture vultures to visit. Even in October, you can still fit in a beach day, thanks to the French Riviera's reasonable climate.

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One of the best ways to avoid the crowded areas in Nice is to seek out some of the city’s less-explored attractions. Plenty are waiting to be discovered – and many of them are just as pleasant as the more popular ones. As one of Nice’s main attractions, the Promenade des Anglais can sometimes get pretty overcrowded. If you seek a more peaceful experience, consider the Promenade du Paillon, instead. This stunning landscaped garden has a range of greenery, shaded areas, walking paths and a reflecting pool with water jets to cool off on hot days.

For a different perspective on Nice, head to Parc de la Colline du Château. Set on top of a hill, this historic park is home to the ruins of Château de Nice, a former military citadel. Explore the castle ruins, relax among the greenery, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Baie des Anges and the Old Town – it’s a perfect spot to glimpse the sunset, too. While you’re here, be sure to wander around the cemeteries. The Christian cemetery boasts a fascinating mix of artistic styles, with crosses, angels, medallions and crying maidens. Meanwhile, the Jewish cemetery is dedicated to those who died during the Holocaust.

Let’s face it, some of Nice’s galleries and museums can get a little too touristy. Understandably, they may be on your list of areas to avoid in Nice. Want to appreciate some art without the crowds? Galerie Eva Vautier is a bright venue found in the Liberation neighbourhood. It showcases local artists' works, whether photography, ceramics, paintings or drawings. Moreover, you can also attend events like poetry readings, discussions, concerts and visual art performances.

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When searching for where to stay, make sure to expand your search to include the outskirts of the city. This is a great way to stay clear of crowds and experience a more authentic way of life. While the Old Town is a lovely place to spend a few hours, it's top of our list of areas to avoid in Nice. Not only is it too touristy, but the noisy crowds mean peace and quiet is rare. Likewise, the New Town (Jean Médecin) and the nightlife hub of Carre d’Or can also get very busy. Instead, opt for residential neighbourhoods. Many of these are just a short distance from Nice’s attractions, but offer a relaxed place to come home to after sightseeing.

Set on the northern edge of the Old Town, Garibaldi is a grand square dating back to 1778. At its centre is a majestic fountain, a popular meeting spot for locals visiting the alfresco cafes that spill out onto the cobblestones. This is one of our favourite places to stay, and you can make the most of the convenient tram access to the Old Town.

Another area worth checking out is Cimiez. This upscale, leafy neighbourhood is so picturesque that even Queen Victoria spent her winter vacations here. Stroll through the expansive Jardin des Arenes with its landscaped grounds and tranquil corners. While you’re here, head to the nearby ruins of Arènes de Cimiez, a Roman amphitheatre dating back to the 2nd century. The neighbourhood is also great for art lovers, who can admire the charming Belle Epoque buildings or marvel at the artwork in the Musée Matisse.

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Funnily enough, one of the best ways to avoid crowds in Nice is to get out of the city entirely. There are many towns and villages in the area which are worth spending the day exploring, from medieval mountain villages to lively seaside towns. One of our favourite places is Eze. Just a half-hour drive from Nice, this hilltop village dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with pretty buildings and artisan shop-lined streets. Wander through the cobbled lanes, slipping into tiny alleyways as you make your way up to Le Jardin Exotique with its collection of succulents. Naturally, the views from up here are second to none, the turquoise sea sparkling below.

Speaking of the sea, somewhere worth exploring is Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Previously a humble fishing village, this is now one of the most desirable places to live on the French Riviera. It’s a popular spot for the rich and famous who come for picturesque beaches, magnificent gardens and luxurious villas such as Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

Alternatively, head inland into the hills above Nice. Just a forty-minute drive from the city is Vence, one of the Riviera’s most charming towns. Away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds, Vence’s ancient town centre is made up of medieval streets lined with old stone buildings covered in ivy and bright blooms. There’s not much to do regarding attractions, but that’s the appeal – simply slow down and enjoy a taste of local life, watching the locals play boules in the park and sipping a drink in the sunshine in Place du Peyra.

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Want to completely avoid tourists? Trade the busy streets for empty hiking trails. Nice is surrounded by natural beauty, with endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, climbing and other outdoor activities – and trust us, this postcard-worthy scenery isn't an area to avoid in Nice. One of the loveliest places to get some fresh air is Parc National du Mercantour, just a ninety-minute drive from Nice. Soak up the magnificent mountain scenery and pristine lakes while the Cime du Gélas towers in the background at 3,143 metres. It's perfect for hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months, or skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

A little further out from Nice is the Gorges du Verdon. This incredible river canyon is one of the largest in Europe and is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Explore the milky-blue waters by canoe or kayak, or amp up the adrenaline with rafting and canyoning. Those who prefer to stay on land can take on hiking trails such as Blanc-Martel, go rock climbing up the limestone cliffs, or enjoy e-bike rides through the park. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you can even admire the views from the sky by paragliding or bungee jumping.

Serious climbers will want to head to the Esterel Massif, a volcanic mountain range known for its red rock formations. Just over an hour’s drive from Nice, the massif covers a huge area of 32,000 hectares. The highest point is Mont-Vinaigre, which rises to 614 metres – it’s worth the workout, especially at sunrise when the rugged landscapes light up in a warm orange glow. Back down at sea level, cool off with a swim in the turquoise waters of Les Calanques de l’Esterel.

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