NEW TOUR Nice: A Walk through Criminal Past and Heroic Tales

Discover Nice’s Dark Secrets and Heroic Tales in Just 2.5 Hours

The NEW TOUR in Nice offers a captivating journey through the city’s history, focusing on its most notorious criminals and inspiring heroes. Priced at a competitive rate and lasting 2.5 hours, this walking experience is perfect for those interested in true crime stories, heroic deeds, and the fascinating history of the South of France.

Led by Evgeniia Odintsova, an engaging and well-researched guide, the tour departs from the English Promenade and takes you through key locations like Ruhl Plage, Fountain of the Sun, and Place Garibaldi. The route is designed to introduce visitors to notorious crimes, mysteries, and heroic acts that have shaped Nice’s cultural fabric.

While the tour involves some stair climbing in the old town, it remains accessible for most participants. It has earned a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 based on 47 reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guide, engaging storytelling, and additional local tips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Focused on Nice’s criminal and heroic past with stories of major heists and brave individuals
• 2.5-hour guided walking tour starting on the English Promenade
• Led by Evgeniia Odintsova, a well-researched and engaging guide
• Stops include casino-related mysteries, World War II heroism, and medieval legends
• Tour is wheelchair accessible but involves some stairs
• Ends at Place Garibaldi, allowing easy exploration afterward

From the Promenade to the Old Town: Starting Point and Route

This tour begins at L’Ange de la Baie by Jean-Marie Fondacaro, on the English Promenade opposite the Palais de la Mediterranee. The meeting point is easily accessible, next to the sculpture “The Angel of the Bay”, with precise coordinates provided for convenience.

From there, the guide leads participants through some of Nice’s most iconic spots, including Ruhl Plage, where the view of the sea is unforgettable, and the Fountain of the Sun, which adds a splash of color to the cityscape. The route is designed to be manageable with some stairs in the old town, making it suitable for most visitors despite a few physical challenges.

Unraveling the Most Notorious Casino War and Heists

A highlight of the tour is the story of the most daring robbery in France, often called the robbery of the century. The guide recounts how a charming but criminal mastermind led this audacious heist, leaving behind a trail of questions and intrigue.

Plus, the disappearance of the casino heiress remains an unsolved mystery, adding a layer of suspense to the tour. Participants get a detailed account of these events, woven into the broader narrative of Nice’s criminal history.

The Queen of Thieves and Belle Époque Crime Spree

Travel back to the Belle Époque era to meet the queen of thieves, a woman who robbed wealthy aristocrats for over 16 years without being caught. Her daring exploits highlight the city’s less noble side while showcasing her cleverness and resilience.

This story provides an engaging glimpse into the criminal underworld of the past, contrasting sharply with the city’s glamorous reputation during that period.

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Heroic Acts: The Washerwoman and WWII Rescues

The tour features inspiring stories of heroic figures like the medieval washerwoman who saved Nice from an attack by two famous commanders. Her quick thinking and bravery helped protect the city long ago.

Moving into more recent history, the tour recounts the efforts of a Jewish couple during World War II who organized a network that saved over 500 Jewish children. Their courageous actions are celebrated as some of the most meaningful deeds in Nice’s history.

Famous Faces and Cultural Highlights

Part of the tour includes a look at the most famous superstar born in Nice and the reasons why his hometown’s fate was a disappointment in his life. The guide shares insights into his legacy and the city’s connection to this iconic figure.

Throughout the walk, you’ll also experience the city’s culture and history, with stops at notable landmarks like Place Garibaldi and Catherine Ségurane’s bas-relief. These sites add depth to the storytelling and give context to the criminal and heroic tales.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour starts at L’Ange de la Baie, on the English Promenade, which is convenient to locate next to the Hyatt Hotel and Partouche casino. The exact coordinates are 43.6946, 7.2631, making it straightforward for visitors to find.

The experience is live-guided in English and wheelchair accessible. However, participants should be prepared for some stairs in the old town area, which may pose challenges for strollers or those with mobility issues.

The Perfect Length for a City Exploration

At 2.5 hours, this tour offers a compact yet comprehensive look at Nice’s criminal and heroic history without feeling rushed. The pacing is praised for being engaging, with the guide pausing to ask questions that challenge deduction and keep participants involved.

This duration also allows plenty of time afterward to explore other parts of Nice, dine, or relax in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Nice

What makes this tour unique is its focus on dark stories and heroism, set against the beautiful backdrop of Nice’s streets. The expertly researched stories, shared by Evgeniia, bring the city’s history vividly to life.

Many reviews highlight how the guide’s friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging style makes the stories memorable. Additional tips on local restaurants and hidden spots enhance the overall experience, making this tour more than just a walk.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Travelers

This experience appeals to those interested in history, crime stories, and heroic deeds. It’s well-suited for adults and older children, given the historical content and some physical activity involved.

Everyone who enjoys storytelling, local legends, and city exploration will find this tour enriching. Its high rating and consistently positive reviews confirm its popularity among diverse visitors.

The Sum Up: A Must-Do for Curious Visitors to Nice

The Nice: A Walk through Criminal Past and Heroic Tales tour offers a well-crafted, engaging journey through the city’s most intriguing stories. The 2.5-hour route provides a perfect overview of notorious crimes, heroic acts, and cultural landmarks.

Led by Evgeniia, a guide praised for her research, storytelling skill, and friendly manner, the tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, true crime fans, and anyone eager to see Nice from a fresh perspective. While some stairs are involved, most you will find the experience highly rewarding.

If you want to uncover the darker and nobler sides of Nice’s past, this walk is a memorable and insightful choice that complements the city’s more typical sights beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at L’Ange de la Baie by Jean-Marie Fondacaro on the English Promenade, with coordinates 43.6946, 7.2631.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but participants should be aware that there are some stairs involved in the old town.

What stories does the tour cover?
Expect stories about the most daring robbery in France, the disappearance of a casino heiress, thieves from the Belle Époque, heroic historical figures, and WWII rescues.

Who is the guide?
The tour is led by Evgeniia Odintsova, known for her research, engaging narration, and local insights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is mainly designed for adults and older children interested in history and stories of crime and heroism.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and participants should be prepared for some stairs. No specific items are required.

Are food or drinks included?
No, but the guide often offers tips for places to eat and drink in Nice.

What makes this tour different from others in Nice?
Its focus on criminal and heroic stories, combined with a lively, well-researched narration by Evgeniia, makes this experience stand out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby