We will be in Villefranche-sur-mer for February and want to experience the Carnival parades in Nice: Bataille de Fleurs (Flower Parade), Roi des Océans (King of the Oceans) and maybe Carnaval de Nuit (Parade of Lights). What area of the parade route would you recommend getting tickets for if we want to watch? (rather than dress up and party-that ship has sailed). Also are there any other Nice Carnival events you recommend? We’re beyond rides or games though. I am interested in flowers, how floats are built, more along those lines. Thanks!
Posted by
Nice, France & San Francisco
820 posts
The theme this year is "Long Live the Queen". The Ocean theme was last years. You can go to this website for more info:
https://www.nicecarnaval.com/en/
Ticket sales start in December. You will need to buy tickets early, especially for the grandstand area on Place Massena. That will get you out of the fray on the streets lining the route, but do come at a higher price. The first day is also filled with special events around the city, with more info to be published later.
Concurrent to the Carnaval is the Fete du Citron in Menton (Lemon Festival). That makes for an excellent day trip by train.
Posted by
OP
Tacoma, WA, USA
709 posts
Thank you! Just having a recommended area is great.
Yes we planning on the Menton Lemon Festival too if you have any suggestions. We have spent time in the area but never during the festivals.
Posted by
United Kingdom
4 posts
To see the flowers and float details - The Masséna grandstand seating is the best for both the Bataille de Fleurs and the parades. The floats go slower here, making it easier to admire the flowers and take pictures.
For the Flower Parade, it is best to sit in the lower rows for a good view with fewer crowds.
Another area to consider is the Carnival Village near Promenade du Paillon for exhibitions.
If flowers are your thing, then the Bataille de Fleurs is the event you can attend and go for it.
Posted by
OP
Tacoma, WA, USA
709 posts
Thank you Samson for replying to the thread.
For someone’s future reference:
We bought tickets in Place Massina the day the sale started in December which was good as bleachers sold out within hours.